HW Penny Foskaris Issue

Celebrating Diversity In The Entertainment Industry

®

Frederico Lapenda 10 Things to do to break into Hollywood

Sara Omran

New Creative Innovations in the Movie & TV Industry

Penny Foskaris The Guide to Not Starving Yourself Fat & Finding a Happier, Healthier You

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR W

elcome readers to a very special issue of Hollywood Weekly. First of all, We are honored to have on our cover the amazing certified Heath Coach, Penny Foskari.

This edition of Hollywood Weekly is filled with great stories.

• The globally Renowned, Filipino, Avant Garde fashion designer Rocky Gathercole is remembered for his inspirational talent, and kind heart. A global icon, he began with humble beginnings. But, with determination, and what some may call a magical mind, Rocky created a legacy that will continue to live on for many centuries to come.

• The pandemic has had a major impact on many industries, as well as, our day to day lives. One of the industries that has been affected in a major way has been the Movie and TV production industries. Initially movies were very difficult to shoot due to the quarantines and restrictions on the gathering of groups. This is starting to change and it is easier to start making movies and TV productions with some careful following of the various guidelines and restrictions.

• Hollywood! The very name evokes visions of glamor, success and excitement. It is the dream of countless people to be able to have a career in the Movie and/or the TV industry. Most picture themselves being a famous movie star. Some are even drawn to the jobs which are behind the scenes; such as a writer, director, producer, director of photography, editor composer, etc. Whatever their individual goals and where they think that they will “fit in” they greatly desire to be in the entertainment industry.

Everyday people are arriving in Hollywood with visions of a glamorous career.

• Can you guess the #1 fear of most Americans? If you guessed spiders, sharks, or maybe roller coasters, you’d be incorrect. It’s the daunting task we all fear, a task so stressful most of us would rather quit our job than take on – the terrifying monster of Public Speaking.

We would like to thank each of you, our readers, for your support. Please be sure a send a note letting us know which story you found most interesting.

Celebrating Diversity In The Entertainment Industry

Prather Jackson

®

Frederico Lapenda

Publisher

10 Things to do to break into Hollywood

Sara Omran

New Creative Innovations in the Movie & TV Industry

Call: (424) 371-9900 Email: HollywoodWeekly@gmail.com 2 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

Penny Foskaris The Guide to Not Starving Yourself Fat & Finding a Happier, Healthier You

VICE PRESIDENT Bernice Harris Michael D. Coxson SENIOR BOOK CURATOR Jane Ubell-Meyer

• MGM celebrates the 30th anniversary of Thelma & Louise with a special drive-in screening and Q&A with Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis and the film’s screenwriter Caillie Khouri.

Best wishes,

PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Prather Jackson

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER Hailey Ashley CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alex A. Kecskes Elyce Hastings CREATIVE DIRECTOR Rouland Medina DESIGN & PRODUCTION Denise Chavez AFRICA OPERATIONS Egor Efiok HWM Africa Ambassador and Correspondence Egorefiok@gmail.com BRAZIL OPERATIONS Fabio Glingani Rico@lapenda.net (310) 567-3333 INDIA OPERATION Ike Sinha Country Director Art4Peace Awards Hollywood Weekly Magazine B1/1565 Vasantkunj New Delhi-110 070 Mobile +919599068592 CENTRAL AMERICA Karla Silva 818-254-5505 Karla@monarks.Biz Jose Beltran 526-546-2840 wpsevents@gmail.com DISTRIBUTORS CoMag MADER NEWS

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4 BEDSIDE READING 10 ROCKY GATHERCOLE 16 SARA OMRAN 22 FREDERICO LAPENDA 26 PUT THE CLOTHES BACK 30 SECOND CHANCES 32 GREG & SHELLY 34 PENNY FOSKARIS Certified Health Coach HW’s Favorite Authors in a Leage of His Own

New Creative Innovations

10 Things to do to break into Hollywood On Your Audience

Lending a helping hands to those in need Art4PeaceAwards 2021

Photographer: Rosalind Guder Model: Emma Golijanin

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY IS A PUBLICATION WHOLLY OWNED BY PRATHER JACKSON HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY MAGAZINE LLC. © 2021 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION OF ANY CONTENT WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSSION OF THE PUBLISHER IS EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR MAY BE SENT TO: PRATHER@HOLLYWOODWEEKLYMAGAZINE.COM. 8345 RESEDA BLVD #117, NORTHRIDGE, CA 91324.

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The Guide to Not Starving Yourself Fat & Finding a Happier, Healthier You

By Hailey Ashley

I

magine, relaxing in spa environment and losing fat effortlessly while taking a nap for 20 minutes as the fat melts away, stretchmarks fade, and your skin becomes more youthful. Sound like a Hollywood movie? Too good to be true? Well, it happens daily for the clients at Foskaris Wellness & the results speak for themselves.

Some clients have lost 8 pounds of fat after a single session with the use of RedLight Sculpting™, and Penny Foskaris’ proprietary fat loss method.

The combination of RedLight Sculpting™, and Penny’s various methods will help you shed those extra pounds of fat off of your body as if you’re turning back the hands of time. Whether you have 5 or 105 pounds of unwanted fat, this fat loss system will work for you along with eliminating any worries of saggy, excess skin, since it tightens your skin in the process.

The total body transformation and wellness center, owned and operated by Penny Foskaris is a unique facility that uses state-of the art technology to achieve accurate and precise measurements. She assesses each and every one of her clients individual, specialized and unique needs.

4 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

Penny understands that although we may be looking for a solution faster than counting calories for months on end, most of us are not willing to risk our health, well-being, and sanity to drop those annoying love handles, and she agrees.

In fact, what she promotes is just the opposite. Most people that come into the wellness center have been starving themselves fat.

That’s right, you’ve heard correctly; Most people are starving themselves fat.

With the focus of the office being on body composition and BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate), Penny is able to see whether or not her clients are eating enough food. Her clients understand how to not only lose the fat, but keep it off, and provide the tools we all need in our tool box to understand how to make easy changes to our lifestyle and remain in good health – without always having to skip dessert.

of your body, she also offers her wealth of knowledge to all those in need.

Penny and her staff teach us the importance of stress reduction, sleep, daily activity, food sensitivities and healthy food choices, through her years of experience, and the next generation technology available to her.

At Foskaris Wellness, we learn why Penny insists on using body composition to determine her clients BMR, instead of BMI (Body Mass Index) for her assessments. To quote Penny “BMI is Blind™” as BMI takes only weight and height into consideration. It cannot see how much muscle, fat, or water is in a person’s body.

For example, a body builder that has lean body mass with muscle will look obese on the BMI chart. By using her state-of the art equipment to do her assessments, Penny is able to create a fool-proof plan to help her clients achieve their goals.

With the help of her innovative RedLight Sculpting™ Elite Pro System, manufactured in California, Penny hopes to help wellness centers and doctors’ offices everywhere be able to provide a safer, more effective way for people to lose weight, prevent diabetes, and overcome obesity, (just to name a few) without having to face the fear of going under the knife, or the reality of the scars that weight loss surgeries all too often leave in their path.

If you’re concerned about breaking the bank, fear not. Penny prides herself on creating affordable services for all potential clients, so anyone and everyone is welcome to stop by for a free consultation.

Not only has she found a way to make her RedLight Sculpting™ Elite Pro a better pad system than most, by having over 10,000 high intensity LEDs in the 6 pads that cover almost the entire span

You can walk into this Orange County wellness center for the cost of a few trips to Starbucks and get the full experience. People drive from all parts of California to experience what Penny has to offer.

She has hundreds of case studies to show potential clients the amazing results that can be achieved quickly with her methods.

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On-line nutrition consulting services are also available for those who are too far to experience her services in person.

From the very first visit new clients can experience the RedLight Sculpting™ Pro Elite Pro system, spend time in the relaxation room and sit in the stress relieving near-infrared sauna, or lay on one of the PEMF crystal mats, while experiencing stress reduction and relaxation with use of the PSIO “space glasses”. Each client will find out the exact caloric intake needed for the day, and go home with the knowledge they need to finally create the lifestyle we are all trying to obtain.

Just ask her loyal customers what they think Laura 53, “Penny’s program is more than just weight loss. I came in for weight loss and got so much more than that. There was a lot of awakening about myself and learned what the core of my undereating at times was and overeating at others. It’s helped me stop struggling with weight loss. It’s made me an overall more positive person and you continue being good to yourself and it starts right here working with Penny at Foskaris Wellness.”

The public has spoken, and they say we’ve found the fountain of youth, and its right in our backyard.

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With her family tree successfully working in the restaurant industry, Penny was inspired to go in a different direction, and come up with a better solution for the way we consume our daily meals.

Whether eating out, dining in, or going to a BBQ, our problems have been solved. According to her Fast Food Diet Cook Book we are still allowed to enjoy the foods we love, without our stomach grumbling.

In fact, according to Penny, if you’re hungry you’re doing it wrong.

She offers her Fast Food Diet Cook Book for reference, and helps us make sure our groceries don’t end up in the trash. Her solutions are endless, and they can work for anyone, no chefs needed here.

In 2018 Penny made guest appearances on NBC, CBS and FOX teaching her methods of preparing recipes out of her cookbook.

Making the right choices seems to be half the battle for most of us, and with the understanding that not everyone’s body functions in the same way, Penny provides each client with accurate information to help them succeed months, and even years, after walking out of her wellness center.

With the use Penny’s patent pending formula, an individualized program is created in a personal journal, unique to each client, and taken home so that we don’t have to worry about guessing what will work.

As the summer sun is fast approaching, we are all regretting not sticking to our ‘new year, new me’ New Year’s resolutions. Many of

us may still be considering what we believe to be a quick fix, with lipo-suction, tummy tucks, face lifts and the list goes on.

But as Penny has seen – those options are not a one stop shop, or quick fix. In fact, they’re far from it.

An unfortunate situation Penny sees all too often are the (sometimes scary) side effects of these surgical solutions.

Spanning from body scars, loose skin, stretch marks and unflattering body indents, these side effects are not only permanent, but sometimes harder to deal with than the extras few pounds we put on in the first place.

According to Penny Foskaris, be weary if you go under the knife, you might take home some unwanted consequences that can easily be avoided.

If you fall into this category, no need to worry, Penny is here to make it right. Although we can’t offer a time machine at Foskaris Wellness, there are many ways she helps people who end up wishing they had found her sooner. She provides the solutions many may need to be able to recover from a less then successful surgical experience.

Now imagine, you’ve made it through your consultation, as well as your first treatment. And hey – it was easier than you thought.

You feel lighter, more educated, and ready to take on lunch time loaded with tools and tricks that seem so easy to achieve. There’s no recovery time, or pharmacy trips, and you feel better than you have in months, maybe even years.

Those are the results we can all achieve by calling Penny or stopping by Foskaris Wellness. It’s simple, yet we tend to make it so difficult on ourselves.

I urge you to keep it simple, and use Penny as your resource, she is here to help us in so many ways.

Penny is also an ambassador for the World Wide Youth Congress and is part of the Children Uniting Nations Charity. She believes in mentoring our youth to help them get ready for their future.

Her innovation, caring spirit and general need to make a positive impact in this world can provide us all with what we’ve been yearning for, what our friends and family wish for us, and what we wish for them – a peace of mind that you are in good health.

Now, how much is that worth to you?

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If you're someone who has been struggling with your weight, Penny is offering a free consultation and a free gift to all Hollywood Weekly readers (subscribers)

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Go to www.foskariswellness.com or www.redlightsculpting. com to reserve your spot and receive your free gift.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 7

Susan Surandon and Geena Davis with the 1966 Ford Thunderbird driven in MGM’s THELMA & LOUISE, courtesy of the Petersen Automotive Museum Foundation | Photo Credit: Eric Charbonneau

Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Thelma & Louise with Special Drive-In Screening Event MGM celebrated the film’s 30th anniversary last night with a special drive-in screening and Q&A with Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis and the film’s screenwriter Caillie Khouri.

Davis and Sarandon also posed for pictures with the film’s Ford Thunderbird courtesy of the Petersen Automotive Museum Foundation.

The event was hosted in partnership with Cinespia and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the LA Regional Food Bank and The Geena Davis Institute On Gender In Media.

Susan Surandon and Geena Davis Photo Credit: Eric Charbonneau 8 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

Thelma & Louise is currently available on the following digital platforms: Amazon, Apple, Vudu, Google, FandangoNow, Kaleidescape, Xbox,

Comcast, AT&T/DirecTV, Dish, Spectrum, Sony, Verizon, Cox, Dish Synopsis: Directed by Ridley Scott from an Oscar®-winning screenplay

by Callie Khouri, Thelma & Louise has been hailed as one of the best road movies of all time. Sarandon and Davis star as accidental outlaws on a desperate flight across the Southwest.

With a determined detective (Harvey Keitel) on their trail, a sweet-talking hitchhiker (Brad Pitt) in their path and a string of crimes in their wake, their journey alternates between high-speed thrill ride and empowering personal odyssey. Originally released on May 24, 1991, Thelma & Louise was nominated for six Academy Awards® and went on to earn $45 million at the box office ($92 million when adjusted for inflation).

Hollywood Weekly - Page Turners BedsideReading.com

Seven Days In June by Tia Williams

Seven days to fall in love, fifteen years to forget and seven days to get it all back again...Brooklynite Eva Mercy is a single mom and bestselling writer. Shane Hall is a reclusive, award-winning author. When Shane and Eva meet unexpectedly at a literary event, sparks fly, raising not only their past buried traumas but the eyebrows of New York’s Black literati. What no one knows is that twenty years earlier, teenage Eva and Shane spent one crazy, torrid week madly in love.

They may be pretending that everything is fine now, but they can’t deny their chemistry—or the fact that they’ve been secretly writing to each other in their books ever since. Over the next seven days, Eva and Shane reconnect, but Eva’s not sure how she can trust the man who broke her heart, and she needs to get him out of New York so that her life can return to normal. But first, she needs questions answered…

The Siren by Katherine St. John

From Katherine St. John, author of The Lion’s Den, comes another sublimely escapist thriller: When Hollywood heartthrob Cole Power hires his exwife, Stella Rivers, to act in his son’s film, he sparks a firestorm on an isolated island that will unearth long-buried secrets—and unravel years of lies. In the midst of a sizzling hot summer, some of Hollywood’s most notorious faces are assembled on the idyllic Caribbean island of St. Genesius to film The Siren, starring dangerously handsome megastar Cole Power playing opposite his ex-wife, Stella Rivers. The surefire blockbuster promises to entice audiences with its sultry storyline and intimately connected cast. Three very different women arrive on set, each with her own motive. Stella, an infamously unstable actress, is struggling to reclaim the career she lost in the wake of multiple, very public breakdowns. Taylor, a fledgling producer, is anxious to work on a film she hopes will turn her career around after her last job ended in scandal. And Felicity, Stella’s mysterious new assistant, harbors designs of her own that threaten to upend everyone’s plans.

With a hurricane brewing offshore, each woman finds herself trapped on the island, united against a common enemy. But as deceptions come to light, misplaced trust may prove more perilous than the storm itself.

The Summer I Found Myself by Colleen French

Summer In The City by Priscilla Oliveras, Lori Wilde, and Sarah Skilton There’s nothing like summer in Manhattan.

The days are long and the nights are even longer. But when the lights go out in the city, fireworks explode in this fun rom-com anthology!

Night at the Museum

by Lori Wilde Art restorer Ria Preston knows a thing or two about beauty. And when she discovers her neighborhood crush, gregarious Wall Street advisor Vic Albright is locked overnight in the Metropolitan Museum of Art with her, she can’t resist taking him on a very private tour…

Lights Out by Priscilla Oliveras Back in high school, Vanessa Ríos and Mateo Garza were theater troupe rivals.

Now Mateo’s a rising Broadway star and Vanessa’s his most scathing critic. Cue a plot twist straight out of central casting: the two end up alone in his New York City apartment during the blackout, setting the stage for what could be their second act romance…

Mind Games by Sarah Skilton What happens in college stays in college— unless you never get over it. In fact, Alison has been waiting to take her revenge on Nick, once the hottest guy on campus, now the hottest guy on the rising magician’s circuit. But her plans to sabotage his first show are upended by the power outage.

That’s when the real magic happens…

In this uplifting story of self-discovery, friendship, and having the courage to show up for life, Ellen and Lara, two women who have been best friends since childhood, reunite at Ellen’s Delaware beach house to spend what could be their final summer together. Ellen has had a difficult couple of years after the death of her parents and the end of her marriage, and she’s still a little lost. Lara, on the other hand, is the kind of fearless person who seems to always know exactly who she is and what she wants out of each day, living large and with her arms wide open. Unfortunately, she’s just received a harrowing diagnosis and has a summer of chemotherapy ahead of her. Ellen wants Lara to stay at the beach house so she can take care of her while she’s undergoing treatments. Lara has her own agenda, though. She wants to snap Ellen out of her rut so she can start living life to its fullest…

At Lara’s urging, Ellen joins a local writer’s group, tries online dating, and mingles with the new friends Lara brings home from her support group. She forgoes white wine for red and eats French fries for breakfast. She even flirts with the local bookstore owner, a handsome, sun-kissed, younger man. And as she embraces the freedom that comes with breaking her own rules, she wonders if it’s not just her past that lies in this beloved quirky town, but her future too.

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Dial M for Merlot by Howard Kleinfeld In Vino Veritas— in wine there is truth, and the truth is that JustinJames is a 30-year-old nerd who just can’t seem to get a second date. One evening, he wanders into a wine tasting that turns on his taste buds and changeshis life. Join Justin on an exhilarating and intoxicating voyage that leads him out of his shell into the world of fine wine and living. From Florida to France, Justin discovers there is much more to life than he’d ever realized, stimulating, seductive, andpotentially dangerous things like fabulous wine and food, hot sex…and murder.

Die With Zero by Bill Perkins Imagine if by the time you died, you did everything you were told.

You worked hard, saved your money, and looked forward to financial freedom when you retired.

The only thing you wasted along the way was…your life.

DIE WITH ZERO: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life by Bill Perkins presents a startlingly new and provocative philosophy as well as a practical guide on how to get the most out of your money—and out of your life. It’s intended for those who place lifelong memorable experiences far ahead of simply making and accumulating money for one’s so-called Golden Years.

In short, Bill Perkins wants to rescue you from over-saving and under-living. Regardless of your age, Die with Zero will teach you Perkins’ plan for optimizing your life, stage by stage, so you’re fully engaged and enjoying what you’ve worked and saved for.

Using his own life experiences as well as inspiring stories and cautionary tales of others, and drawing on eye-opening insights about time, money, and happiness from psychological science and behavioral finance, Perkins makes a timely, convincing, and contrarian case for living large.

Raphael, Painter In Rome by Stephanie Storey Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling is one of the most iconic masterpieces of the Renaissance.

Storey tells of its creation through the eyes of Michelangelo’s fiercest rival—the young and brilliant painter of perfection, Raphael.

Orphaned at age eleven, Raphael is determined to keep the deathbed promise he made to his father: become the greatest artist in history. But to be the best, he must beat Michelangelo. When Pope Julius II calls both artists down to Rome, they are pitted against each other: Michelangelo painting the Sistine Ceiling, while Raphael decorates the pope's private apartments. As Raphael strives toward perfection in paint, he battles internal demons: his ambition, crippling fear of imperfection, and loneliness.

Along the way, he conspires with cardinals, scrambles through the ruins of ancient Rome, and falls in love with a baker’s-daughter-turned-prostitute who becomes his muse. Raphael, Painter in Rome brings to vivid life these two Renaissance masters going head to head in the deadly halls of the Vatican.

Sylvie McSlipper by Nancy Alfaro When you’re the town cobbler’s daughter, you have more shoes than you can ever count! But one day at her dad’s cozy workshop, Sylvie learns something new about kids in her very own town. Sylvie McSlipper is the charmingly illustrated story of a child’s awakening to the idea of giving back.

Why Did I Come Into This Room?: A Candid Conversation About Aging by Joan Lunden In her most candid and revealing book yet, acclaimed broadcast journalist and baby boomer Joan Lunden delves into the various phases of aging that leave many feeling uncomfortable, confused, and on edge. In this hilarious book, Lunden takes the dull and depressing out of aging, replacing it with wit and humor. After all, laughing is better than crying—unless it makes you pee! Whether you’re in your 40’s, 50’s, 60’s or more, this book is full of helpful information to embrace or at least prepare for the inevitable.

Funny, captivating and raw, no topic is off limits. Lunden goes where others fear, openly talking about wrinkles (but it’s not just about wrinkles) age spots (which Lunden insists are sunspots) expanding waistlines (no, you didn’t shrink your jeans), diminished energy (my “get up and go” got up and went), weak pelvic floors (don’t make me laugh), hot flashes (they suck), disrupted sleep (Lunden is an expert on this one!), changes in sex drive (oh yeah, she goes there), ageism (it exists and it pisses us off), and yes, the real reasons we suddenly find ourselves always searching for those car keys!

“I’m too old for Snapchat, but too young for Life Alert.”

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Conversations with Authors

Brilliant Burnout by Nisha Jackson, PhD

The Perfect Blend by Kathryn Starke

Young Divas That Care by Candace Gish

In Brilliant Burnout, Nisha Jackson reveals proven, successful testing and treatment strategies for optimal hormone, brain and body balance and compelling insights that have helped women worldwide to change their lives and step up their game. Learn and use the very tactics in this book to beat the big snooze of burning out!

She has no time to date. He has no desire to date. Nevertheless, one sweet treat blends the perfect match.

This contemporary romance reminds readers of the power of relationships in life. You never know what could be brewing right under your nose!

Think big and follow your passion.

That’s exactly what the seventeen young women in Young Divas That Care have done. Through personal struggles with family, bullying, depression, and life-threatening medical conditions and a desire to empower others, these young women combine their passions with volunteerism to make a difference in the world.

Q&A WITH NISHA JACKSON, PhD Q: Can balancing your hormones help your mood, weight, sleep, energy, and brain function at any age? A: Hormones are pretty incredible, serving as messengers between body systems to regulate behavior, digestion, metabolism, respiration, tissue function, sleep, stress, growth, movement, reproduction, and mood. Hormones tell your body when you are hungry, sleepy, stressed, or getting a little frisky, as well as when to stop eating, wake up, calm down, move forward, slow down, or even run for cover. The tricky part about female hormones is that they function differently in certain areas of the body. They can complement each other and often function as opposites. The correct balance and ratios of hormones should always be maintained.

Q: Can healthy sex help you live longer?

A: There are many ways that sex helps you live longer. Sex helps with stress. Most women have no idea that good sex releases hormones that improve how our entire body works. Studies show that sex is not just good, but great for our health. It can protect against heart disease, osteoporosis, dementia, and improve your mood.

There are so many benefits to healthy sex, so read chapter 8 and find out more…

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Q&A WITH KATHRYN STARKE Q: You have now written five books. How was your experience writing your newest release? A: I love writing children’s books and educational resources for teachers and students because my purpose in life is to teach the world to read. My company, Creative Minds Publications, allows me to help increase literacy in elementary schools around the world. I enjoy writing contemporary romance novels because it gives me the opportunity to create a fictional world to spread love, hope, and promise for readers to get lost in.

Q: You believe in publishing books for a purpose. What does this mean? A: I believe that beyond providing a feel-good or inspirational message, books can create an impact in communities. My books Tackle Reading and A Touchdown in Reading are part of an annual philanthropic literacy educational event supported by the NFL. I’m donating proceeds from profits of The Perfect Blend to the American Heart Association to spread the love and awareness of heart health.

Q&A WITH CANDACE GISH Q: What inspired you to write this?

A: Years ago, I was asked by a mentor to start interviewing women who worked from home on her program. At that time, I had four young daughters at home while I was building my own business. I thought this was a great way to collaborate, learn from one another, and share it with other women. This grew into starting my own podcast interviewing not only women working from home but also women in other industries. Fast forward a few more years, I wanted to come up with a way for the stories to have a bigger impact, and books were the solution. That was why I decided that my next book would be dedicated to them, girls 14 and up.

Q: What’s the next project you’re working on? A: I am working on a ofcouple different anthologies, one about women and animals, one about causes and charities, and one dedicated to mothers and daughters. I am very excited about these as they bring laughter and they bring tears.

It is so important to share these stories because I believe they will impact people in a positive way.

Conversations with Authors

Beauty Beyond The Threshold: How International Volunteering Saved My Life by Tiffany Mosher For anyone struggling with depression, anxiety, finding joy in life, living with purpose, or even just bad days, this is one woman’s journey to recovery and self-discovery; a story of hitting rock bottom. This memoir brings hope to those who are feeling sad, depressed, and anxious. There is so much beauty beyond the threshold and the path to discover it is by taking that first step outside of your comfort zone.

Q&A WITH TIFFANY MOSHER Q: What inspired this memoir? A: After struggling with severe depression and anxiety, I found that pushing myself out of my comfort zone and traveling solo to volunteer was what helped me rediscover myself. As I shared my stories, my family and friends encouraged me to write about it. After much contemplation, I decided that it was time to sit down and offer my story to the world with the hopes of inspiring others who are dealing with depression and anxiety.

Q: What gave you the idea of volunteering overseas during a time of crisis? A: After Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, I wanted to help in some way but just did not know how.

I donated financially yet wanted to do more.

One day, I came across a large tree branch that had fallen from a storm across the path. I had this random thought of, “I wonder if they still need help?” After a Google search, I found All Hands and Hearts, and applied to volunteer even though I had no idea how to do the work. I just wanted to try to help in any way that I could.

Throwing Shade by Deborah Wilde

She’s ditching her shapewear, owning her hormones, and letting her magic fly free.

Underestimate her. That’ll be fun.

Miriam Feldman is killing it in the midlife crisis department. But when she unleashes a rare shadow magic, she’s thrust into a world of supernatural power plays with only a grumpy French wolf shifter to guide her.

She’ll have to turn her invisibility into strength and pray they never see her coming.

Forty isn’t the new twenty. It’s better.

Q&A WITH DEBORAH WILDE Q: What can readers expect from a Deborah Wilde book? A: Complex world building, solid female friendships, diverse characters, and exploring my Jewish heritage through my main character and the mythologies I use. I was an avid reader growing up, but I only saw myself reflected in Holocaust stories. While those are incredibly important, where was the Jewish girl going through a wardrobe? So, I started writing magical adventures for women, adding in my love of steamy romance.

Being raised on a steady diet of screwball comedies and Neil Simon movies, I use humor as both foreplay and a shield, and incorporate witty banter into all my books.

Now, with paranormal women’s fiction, I get to explore a heroine in her forties with all her glory, strength and flaws. Her self-awareness and battle scars don’t just extend to the magic mysteries that she finds herself embroiled in, but her takes on love and sex, which are very different once you’ve had a kid and been divorced, than for a single woman in her twenties.

Twice A Daughter by Julie Ryan McGue Julie is adopted. She’s also a twin. The sisters’ search for birth relatives spans five years and involves a search agency, a PI, a confidential intermediary, a judge, an adoption agency, a social worker, and a genealogist. What began as a simple desire for family medical history evolves into a complicated quest–one that unearths secrets, lies, and family members who are literally right next door.

Kirkus Reviews has called Twice a Daughter, “An engaging, endearing chronicle of a woman’s quest to find her origins.”

Q&A WITH JULIE RYAN MCGUE Q: How long did it take you to write your memoir? A: I had a breast biopsy in 2008 and the search for my birth mom culminated in January 2011. The book released in May 2021.

So, it was ten years from the initial idea of writing a memoir about my adoption search and reunion and the book making it into readers’ hands.

Q: Were there any parts of the book where you struggled? A: Deciding what to leave in and what to leave out was a struggle. I wanted to include more about the ups-and-downs of my reunion with my birth mother, but those events detracted from the story. Sounds like I have another memoir to write, doesn’t it?

Q: What came easily? A: Talking about my twin sister and our relationship was effortless.

So was recalling and reflecting about when my four children intersected with my story.

Writing about the plot twists at the end were enormously fun!

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 13

Conversations with Authors

Bells For Eli by Susan Beckham Zurenda

First cousins Eli Winfield and Delia Green are meant to grow up happily and innocently amid the supposed wholesome values of small-town Green Branch, South Carolina, in the 1960s-70s. But Eli’s tragic accident changes the trajectory of their lives. Shunned and bullied for his disfigurement and frailty, Eli struggles as Delia passionately defends him. Delia’s vivid and compassionate narrative voice presents Eli as a confident young man in adolescence—visible damage to his body gone—but underneath hide indelible wounds harboring pain and insecurity. Bells for Eli explores the tender relationship between cousins drawn together through tragedy in a love forbidden and a family whose secrets must stay hidden.

Q&A WITH SUSAN BECKHAM ZURENDA Q: Discuss your inspiration for Bells for Eli? A:In the late 1950’s, a real-life first cousin swallowed Red Devil Lye his father used to blow up balloons for his son’s second birthday party. My uncle left the lye in a Coca-Cola bottle, and my cousin picked up the bottle and drank. The novel explores how a similar misstep changes the trajectory of a young boy’s life and creates immense conflict in the lives of those around him.

Q: Discuss your hope for those reading Bells for Eli. A: For my characters’ lives to resonate after the novel ends and for readers to consider the irony of fate: how it can take with one hand and give with the other. How childhood wounds of the heart might never leave and become the catalyst for the novel’s staggering conclusion, yet simultaneously, how boundless love can ultimately triumph in a world where cruelty and pain threaten to dominate.

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Her Turn by Allison Jones Addie Snyder is funny, sassy, and insanely talented, so when she publishes her first book and it comes with rave reviews, she is startled by the attention. Enter her insanely hot, yet broody publicist Jameson Ford, who might be grumpy, but he helps her navigate her new life along with befriending her brother, Owen, who has Down syndrome. Swoon!!

When her dysfunctional family tries to hoard in on her success, Addie maintains her humor while popping chocolate kisses as if they were Xanax.

Even though all of her dreams are coming true, no one can prepare her for what lies ahead.

Q&A WITH ALLISON JONES Q: Who was your inspiration for the character of Owen? A: My oldest son Bailey has Down syndrome, so it was easy to construct a complex, yet lovable character like Owen based on my own personal experiences.

Q: Why did you choose to have Addie be in her forties instead of younger? A: I felt like there aren’t enough representation of women over the age of 40 in the rom-com genre, and I felt a pull to give that demographic a voice with Addie as a very relatable character.

Soul Meets Body by Debby Kruszewski Maria listened to her heart that brought her to America. She knew that was where she needed to be to have the right life for her son. Maximo had his own vision. It was for Blake. After a tragic event, Blake lost her memory and didn’t trust their love, even though she had strong feelings for him. They had a connection he knew was real, he never stopped loving her. She went to chase someone else, he never gave up on her.

Q&A WITH DEBBY KRUSZEWSKI Q: What drove you to write Soul Meets Body? A: I wrote Soul Meets Body as I believe there is a dream put in my heart and I felt like it was impossible to find. I was in a relationship where he expressed to me I needed to see things from a different perspective and decided to write a journey of following your heart that led me to this amazing novel!

Q: How does this novel give you faith?

A: Soul Meets Body is driven by the passion in these characters’ hearts and never giving up!

The roadblocks in their path redirect them back to their dream in unbelievable ways. Never give up! You always have an Angel following you!

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Rocky Gathercole In a League of His Own: Paying Tribute to the

UNFORGETTABLE

by Hailey Ashley

T

he globally Renowned, Filipino, Avant Garde designer Rocky Gathercole is remembered for his inspirational talent, and kind heart. A global icon, he began with humble beginnings. But, with determination, and what some may call a magical mind, Rocky created a legacy that will continue to live on for many centuries to come.

Rocky’s big fashion debut was at Miami Fashion Week, 2010. His creations spoke for themselves, and the energy he created was undeniable. That is where he met Jacob and began working with For The Stars Fashion House, which would ultimately turn out to be a life long collaboration, friendship, and success story.

Since then, his work has been shown and worn throughout the world, and featured on numerous covers of prestigious fashion magazines, fashion shows & stages around the world.

Photographer: Rosalind Guder Model: Emma Golijanin

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Known for his unbelievable, one of a kind, and always show stopping creations, Rocky constantly had the ability to send shockwaves up and down the runway with his signature brand of fashion.

He would say, “My designs are, to put it simply, from my weirdest, wildest, wonderful

world where I am the ultimate dictator of fashion. I have a gazillion ideas in my mind, and fantastical is probably the simplest adjective we can associate them with.

The real word to appropriately describe them has yet to come from another universe!”

He put on eye-popping fashion shows in London, Los Angeles, Miami, Phoenix and New York. His partnership with For The Stars Fashion House, and the creative director Jacob was one that took him over the top. They often believed that they completed each other’s visions, and complimented each other in unimaginable ways.

Rocky and Jacob’s creations have not only amazed audiences all over the world, but also created a huge scene in NYC, and started a paparazzi madhouse in Los Angeles, that was just his style.

According to Rocky, “I’ve always been consistent with my ‘insanity’ as a designer.”

All of his pieces told a fairytale-like story, where sometimes he couldn’t even reach the full potential of the fantasy that lived inside him, stating “More than anything, my primary concern, most often than not, is the availability of materials to be able to realize my vision.”

Photographer: Jerry Ghionis

such as Katy Perry, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Paris Hilton, Beyoncé, Toni Braxton and many other jaw dropping, head turning celebrities, hoping to obtain just an ounce of originality, and creativity that pumped through Rocky’s veins.

Rocky and Jacob also designed all the iconic fashion looks in all the seasons of America’s next Top Model, and all of the seasons of Germany’s Next Top Model with Heidi Klum.

With their mad mentality that always surprises, Rocky and Jacob also came out with a collaboration where they partnered with singer Paula Abdul.

When Rocky received praise from the one and only Imelda Marcos, it was a huge accomplishment for him, stating, “Seeing Madame Imelda Marcos clapping for my designs is something I have never imagined. Now, I can say that I’m already a full-fledged fashion designer! Glory to God!”

Rocky and Jacobs creations were, to put simply – works of art. Their designs would be better described as wearable art pieces that transformed the models into something that looked like it belonged in a museum after they stepped off the runway.

With the For The Stars Fashion house, they often felt they had their own museum full of breath taking creations.

Rocky’s looks, which demanded extreme confidence, were worn by celebrities

They worked with hundreds of aspiring models all around the world, with their goal being to empower, and uplift women of all races, ethnicities and backgrounds.

Rocky, Jacob & For The Stars Fashion house took great pride in their movement to instill confidence in all each person they encountered.

The last model Rocky worked with Nicolle Lagera, international model and beauty queen. Her vision and goal is to meet and work with girls around the globe to promote women empowerment, something her and Rocky had in common.

Nicolle is involved in programs that advocate women empowerment, environmentalism, and proper education for women and children.

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Kobi Gulianni

this dog-eats-dog rag trade for more than two decades if Arab women didn’t find my dresses wearable.”

The advocacies she values are closely aligned with the legacy of Rocky Gathercole, and she feels truly blessed to have been able to work with him.

Together, Nicolle and Rocky incorporated a non-profit organization for women called Women’s Initiative for Sustainable development, Opportunities, and Mentoring (WISDOM), and their pilot project focuses on integrating underprivileged women from the informal sector into the formal economy. Nicolle is affiliated with the For the Stars Fashion House and says she is honored to be part of their various 18 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

programs on women empowerment, diversity and inclusion.

To quote the fashion mastermind, “My creations are absolutely ‘not normal.’ I’m the first one who will attest to that. They’re not for the faint hearted. You don’t deserve to wear a Gathercole if you’re not very confident, bold and brave. The strong females of this age have quite a crystal clear idea of what and who they are as individuals. Maybe my translation of what is ‘wearable’ is still unfathomable to those who don’t realize that fashion is a form of self-expression. I wouldn’t have survived in

Never afraid to ruffle feathers, Rocky would go on to state “People hate me for being straightforward, but I just despise dishonest people. If I am not welcome in a group, it’s the least of my concerns. It’s just their way of unconsciously declaring that I am in a league of my own... I am my own group.”

Not one to be concerned with creating waves, the out of this world designer never lacked bluntness.

At the same time, his bluntness always ended in a place of truth. Often giving words of wisdom to those of us wishing his confidence could live on through us, he reminds us all that, “All things are attainable, with strength and perseverance”.

Through their success, Rocky and Jacob were able to, metaphorically, go back to where they came from and teamed up with charitable organizations to help homeless children, as well as be a huge part of The Make A Wish foundation. They also contributed to Breast Cancer Awareness with Brian Hill of Phoenix Fashion Week, and many more who Jacob still continues to work with to this day, carrying on the legacy of his great collaborator and friend.

Many of his peers would go on to describe Rocky as a kind, humble soul. He often would be dressed simply in cargo shorts and a t-shirt, with an unassuming demeanor. Saying he was extremely generous at heart, and despite his sarcastic humor, he made all those around him feel at ease.

With an undeniable generous energy, Rocky has clearly inspired all those who have had the pleasure of meeting him.

Some may have called him misunderstood.

Others may say he was the ultimate definition of fashion. But regardless of how you choose to define him, his impact on the fashion industry, and in the lives of many, will remain forever.

Rocky left this earth on March 3, 2021, at the young age of 54. Leaving behind a loving community of fans, friends, and family. His stamp on this world has been left very bright and bold, and his undeniable spirit will continue to live on through his creations.

His ‘ahead of the curve’ thinking often created criticisms. But that never bothered him, it’s where he thrived, and the way he saw it – The world would just have to catch up, and maybe one day it will.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 21

CREATIVE INNOVATIONS New

in the Movie and TV Industry

By Russell Lee Oquist

T

he pandemic has had a major impact on many industries, as well as, our day to day lives. One of the industries that has been affected in a major way has been the Movie and TV production industries. Initially movies were very difficult to shoot due to the quarantines and restrictions on the gathering of groups. This is starting to change and it is easier to start making movies and TV productions with some careful following of the various guidelines and restrictions.

However, the traditional ways to make this industry profitable have also taken a hit. The financial risks of making movies and TV series are greater than ever and some of the traditional revenue streams are no longer available. For instance, the box office took a gigantic hit as the theaters have been closed for over a year now. Many believe that they will never fully recover. For instance, sales and rentals of Videos and DVDs keep going down. OTT (Over the Top Delivery Services) like NETFLIX, AMAZON, HULU, etc. are becoming very popular.

However many believe that fewer “gate keepers” puts the independent producer in a weaker position.

Making movies is always a risk, but even when you have a successful movie the companies then need to move onto the next project and the risk factor starts all over again. Many production companies are looking to land a syndicated TV Series. When successful, this is often the most rewarding and secure line of profit

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for a production company. However, there is a great deal competition for being able to fill one of the networks key slots. The company needs to take the original concept and pitch it to the network and attach a show runner. If they can convince the executives that the concept is good, then they need to produce a pilot and hope that the network likes it and is willing to take the risk to commit to an entire season. If they are successful, then they can move ahead. If the idea is rejected anywhere in the process, then a lot of time and money have been lost.

As profitable as it has been to make a great movie (if it is successful, of course), a successful Syndicated TV Series is the gold standard for many producers. If you can produce a hit TV show you can have several years of profitable productions and residuals. Friends for example, a very successful sitcom that has developed a cult following in recent years is the 90’s.

According LivingALot.com, the series brings in approximately $1 billion in residuals each year. The former stars of the show receive around two percent in residuals meaning the cast makes roughly $20 million just from the syndication.

Even though several cast members, such as Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow, continue to work in film and TV, it’s safe to say they don’t need to.

If you create a great storyline with an intriguing set of characters and fill it all in with great writing and multiple twists in the storyline, you can have the

Producer Frederico Lapenda

consumer hooked and waiting for each new episode. Better still, when they can, they will “binge watch” the whole season as fast as possible. The Big Bang Theory for example, was able to receive one of the biggest syndication deals of all time. The network TBS paid CBS $1.5 million per episode to get it syndicated on their network.

Fox broadcast paid $500,000 for each episode. This brought them a total of $2 million per episode back in 2010. While it is unclear how much the cast makes per episode, Jim Parson, who played Sheldon Cooper on the series, brings in about 10 million a year in residuals. You might say that a successful TV series is the Golden Goose.

Sara Omran

Producer Frederico Lapenda has some creative solutions to facilitate production and conquer the financial challenges of the time. This is not surprising as Frederico has long been an innovator and a very creative and productive person. He is one of the founding fathers of the sport of Mixed Martial Arts and has largely been credited with the globalization of the MMA. Lapenda has produced 40 films and documentaries, numerous MMA events, video games and music concerts. One of his most significant recent accomplishments was along with Marvel Comics Founder, Stan Lee, the creation of Allies of the Amazon, a children’s book about the importance of the Amazon rainforest.

So it is not surprising that Mr. Lapenda is thinking “outside the box” to revitalize his company’s production capabilities.

I recently had an interview with Mr. Lapenda at Paradigm Pictures’ office along with producing partner, Alex Sulla.

Frederico revealed that he has devised a plan to make a series of movies and ultimately a syndicated TV series, with each step of the process funding the next step. The working title is Lafayette and this plan, while not without its challenges, nevertheless lays out step by step process which could pay big dividends.

Frederico outlined his plan as follows. He would set about making one movie every 3 months and selling it on the global

market. The proceeds from the first movies would then provide the finances to make the subsequent films. The goal is to make a total of 13 90-minute movies (in a series of adventures). When these movies are completed, the production team would use the same materials trimmed down to make 13 episodes (45 minutes each) for a complete season of a TV series. The movies already financed the making of the TV series and the entire season could be used in the pitch to the networks for the season, so that everyone knew what they were getting.

If this is successful, then the production team could soon start working on the 2nd season. The plan is to make the financial exposure covered as the project moves along, minimizing the financial risk and maximizing the potential. The plan provides for a continual flow of financing to cover the costs step by step.

I asked Frederico about the storyline and found that he was understandably vague about the details (after all, there is a lot of competition out there – and storylines are the fuel of the industry). But he did say that the story would take place at a University in Louisiana and that it would present a series of mysteries with supernatural elements. Louisiana’s history, with it’s mysterious swamps and the stories of New Orleans voodoo provides a perfect setting for these stories. The four main characters with very different backgrounds, nationalities and races will be forced to deal with the challenges and apparent attacks from evil forces on their school and community. As they do they will discover things about themselves which enables them to deal with the evil assaults. He didn’t say much about the characters, just that there will be two young females and two young males (in the 20s to 30s). He did reveal that he was already convinced that he has found the right person to play one of the female leads, Sara Omran.

Producer Frederico Lapenda 24 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

Frederico told me, “I became aware of Sara Omran, due to her widely acclaimed performance in Mostafa Keshvari’s award-winning drama Unmasked (2018).

She displayed an incredible depth and subtlety in how she conveyed her personality, character and the inner workings of the difficult choices she

had to make as she faced incredibly difficult situations. Sara’s background (she is Iranian and Ukrainian), multi-lingual upbringing and immigrant status gives her a unique and insightful perspective on life. All of these elements will enrich her character in this TV series.

Lapenda’s producing partner Alex Sula did not tell me much about any of the other actors, only that they would likewise represent different cultures and ethnicities forming a cast of great diversity of excellent actors. He did not tell me about any of the other actors being considered, only that every element of this project will feature excellence which would combine to propel these movies and the subsequent TV series into a great success.

Lapenda and Sulla have chosen Louisiana as their film locations for very specific reasons. Louisiana has become an increasingly popular place to make movies. There is an abundance of professional people to man the crews, high quality equipment supply companies and virtually every type of support needed to make fully professional productions. There is another distinct

benefit to making movies in Louisiana.

The government will reimburse the movie producers 30% rebate of their expenses in the making of the films. So they told me that Louisiana was perfect for their production.

Lapenda did not give me a specific date about when this project will begin, but if everything goes well, it would start summer of 2021. So we will be watching to see how this ambitious project unfolds.

If it is successful, the overall plan could indeed set forth a new way to make both movies and syndicated TV series to entertain and to make a profit.

Today’s reality of pandemics and fear of pandemics, where going out and doing things around the world has become increasingly uncertain; home entertainment has become increasingly important. The consumer has developed a virtually unsatiable appetite for entertainment and the vicarious excitement of other worlds and realities.

The wise producer who can provide quality entertainment to fill this need can indeed survive these times and pave a lucrative path for the future.

Alex Sulla HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 25

10 THINGS TO DO TO BREAK INTO

HOLLYWOOD

By Russell Lee Oquist

H

ollywood! The very name evokes visions of glamor, success and excitement. It is the dream of countless people to be able to have a career in the Movie and/or the TV industry. Most picture themselves being a famous movie star. Some are even drawn to the jobs which are behind the scenes; such as a writer, director, producer, director of photography, editor composer, etc. Whatever their individual goals and where they think that they will “fit in” they greatly desire to be in the entertainment industry. Everyday people are arriving in Hollywood with visions of a glamorous career. They are constantly looking for a way to break into show business.

However, the competition is so great that even if you have considerable talent and are willing to dedicate yourself to this goal, making whatever sacrifices

are needed to succeed, it sometimes seems difficult, even impossible to make the dream come true. Everyone is looking for the “big break” and to “be discovered.” The trade magazines are full of opportunities to auditions for upcoming productions. But the things you have to do seem endless and frankly you start to wonder if it is worth it.

I had the opportunity to meet up with Frederico Lapenda, a successful Hollywood Producer (producing numerous movies including the U.S.S. Indianapolis and Rage (Nicholas Cage, Danny Glover) and many other credits to his name. He is also the president of the Grand Jury for the Beverly Hills Film Festival and Tourism Ambassador to Brazil. I asked about how someone can get started in this exciting but difficult industry. The following is the result of this interview:

RLO: Greetings, Frederico. Thank you for granting this interview.

FL: You are very welcome, Russ. It’s good to see you again.

RLO: As you know, everyone wants to break into Hollywood, but it seems so difficult to do. But you started out to pursue your dream with a couple of extra obstacles. You were born in Recife, Brazil, about 11,000 miles from Hollywood.

Terry Dougas, Frederico Lapenda, Stan Lee, & Gabriel Chalita 26 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

Frederico Lapenda(President of the Grand Jury)

Yet you came to Southern California as a high schooler. Did you specifically come to the USA with the dream of making it in Hollywood?

FL: Yes, I did.

RLO: That takes quite a bit of determination. People come from all over the USA with the same dream, but they grew up in the USA with many advantages of a fuller knowledge of English, the culture, etc. So, what did you do in your education to get caught up to speed?

FL: First of all, I was blessed to have a gracious American family who hosted me, named the Hansens. Billy, Michael, Carol and Bob were all wonderful to me. I studied in High School and college, and completed a degree in Cinema and T.V. from UCLA. RLO: Since then. you have quite a career: You have produced over 40

films and documentaries, MMA events on T.V including many PPV (Pay Per View) events, video games and music concerts/ One of your most significant recent accomplishments was to produce a children’s book, along with Marvel Comics Founder, Stan Lee, the creation of Allies of the Amazon. This is a fascinating children’s book about the importance of the Amazon rainforest and teaches children many important moral lessons.

We all have a friend who can impersonate Al Pacino playing Scarface. “ Say Hello to My Little Friend” hahahah. In my case the passion was so great that I moved 11K Miles, work hard and got into the Entertainment Business.

RLO: Yes, but it seems so hard to break into Hollywood.

FL: Actually, it has never been easier to break into Hollywood than now. When FL: Yes, I feel fortunate to see many of I graduated from film school in 1993, my dreams come true. I am also excited things were very expensive: it was hard about what the future may bring. to get into the University and movies were shot in 35mm. Now it has become RLO: What drove you to work so hard to super cheap and democratic. You can bring all this about? make a movie using your cellphone with your friends and edit it on your laptop.

FL: There is no business like show Then you can send the movie digitally, business!!! Anywhere, that I have been compete in many film festivals around around the world, I have always felt an the world and promote your own film incredible love and passion for the seventh using social media. Now, if a person truly art. I know you probably have friends who wants to get into the movie business, has memorized lines from different movies. there is no excuse not to try.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 27

Frederico Lapenda, Don King and John Daly RLO: So then, I think that you are a good person to ask this question: Frederico, what are the top 10 things needed to break into Hollywood?

1

LEARN YOUR CRAFT.

I cannot stress enough how important it is to get proper training if you plan on getting in the business. You are talking about a business that attracts people from all corners of the world - they are full of drive and focus. And most of them have prepared themselves for many years. If you want to work in this business, you must go to school and learn the craft.

The other great advantage of going to school is that you meet other people that are on the same path as you and you will likely work together in the future.

2

MAKE SHORT FILMS. Short films are a great way to sharpen your skills, network

28 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

4

NETWORK BY GOING TO PLACES WHERE PEOPLE FROM THE INDUSTRY HANG OUT. If you are super focused on your career, then go to the places where the people in the industry hang out. If you are in the right place, you are surrounded by opportunities. You INTERN IN BOTH SMALL AND just need to reach out. One time I was BIG PRODUCTION COMPANIES. in a meeting with a major Hollywood Interning in a production company Mogul, and learned a valuable lesson. is a great way to elevate your game. You He felt that one person in the meeting get to learn how to run a company, how to was wasting his time, so he asked him. negotiate, and most importantly you get If I gave you 10 Billion Dollars, but by to hang out with people from the industry. accepting the money you would be 100 I am a strong believer in networking. It years old, would you take the money? is amazing how small this world really is.

The man jumped up and said “NO” The After working in the town for a few years Mogul then said, ”You see how time is you keep meeting the same people and too important, so don’t waste mine.” I you start to connect the dots. It is very took this lesson to heart. So, make sure important to build a good reputation. that you are spending your time with Build bridges, don’t burn them. Your people with the same goals and work reputation is everything and remember that ethic, so you can be of benefit to each the ass you kick today, you might have other. You can’t afford any distractions; to kiss tomorrow. because time passes so fast. and participate in film festivals. In the beginning, try to keep the plot simple and use as few locations as possible. Every time you do a project you learn so much. if you were to redo this film, you would be able to do it better, faster and cheaper.

Make as many movies as you can.

3

5

FIND A MENTOR. After college I worked a decade in TV, promoting MMA fights. But, my ultimate goal was to move to films and I was super lucky to find a mentor.

An acquaintance introduced me to a man who introduced me to two time Oscar winner, John Daly (Terminator, Last Emperor). Mr. Daly was a great guy, who produced over 200 films. We had one thing in common - the love for the Fight Game. He had financed the famous Match between Mohamad Ali vs George Foreman, the Rumble in the Jungle.

Hanging out with John taught me so much; the right mind set, approach, how to pitch a project, etc. Terry Dougas, a successful producer friend of mine, told me that early in his career he said to his mentor, a famous producer, “Treat me like I’m your partner, but I will treat you like your my Boss.”

9

IT TAKES 10 YEARS TO SUCCEED. Be patient because it takes time for everything to fall in place. Sometimes we see younger people getting to higher places and it makes you feel that you are not moving fast enough. I learned that usually when you see an “overnight success,” they have actually been working on it for 10 years or more. Also, everybody’s fate is different.

10

NEVER STOP BELIEVING IN YOURSELF. This business is full of “naysayers.” it is very important that you don’t allow the outside force of negative people to destroy your faith in yourself.

RLO: This is a great list. How would you summarize your advice?

FL: The business we chose is super fun and fulfilling, but remember that have to work hard and eat, breath and sleep the industry if you want to make it.

RLO: Thank you for these valuable insights, Frederico. You are a talented man and you have worked hard, but I cannot help but believe that if you can make it, there are many other people out there who can as well.

FL: Absolutely!

6

WORK ON SETS NONE STOP. Repetition is the mother of skill. The more you work, the better you become. The more quality relationships you make, quicker you will get to your goal. In the beginning of your career and even later on it, be willing to work for free, if the project is worth it to you.

7

MAKE CONTENT. I had a valuable lesson in film school that shaped my career. I took a class from Producer, John Lenox (Splash). He told us that content was king and whoever owned content in the future would be in a great place. When I graduated, I started to produce and finance Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) events.

The fact that I owned my content put me in the driver seat. So, my advice to you is to create your own content during your free time. Find something you enjoy talking about and produce your own content.

8

GET A JOB THAT GIVES YOU FLEXIBILITY. Before you get your break and can support yourself, take a job that does not get in the way of your career; like Bartender, Doorman or Uber driver. You must be available during the day to work on your craft, go to meetings, do whatever is needed.

Frederico Lapenda and Danny Glover HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 29

Your Audience

Put The Clothes Back On

The Naked Truth as to Why So Many Speakers Fail

By Hailey Ashley

Can you guess the #1 fear of most Americans? If you guessed spiders, sharks, or maybe roller coasters, you’d be incorrect. It’s the daunting task we all fear, a task so stressful most of us would rather quit our job than take on – the terrifying monster of Public Speaking.

But, before you question your ability, and give up your day job to avoid that upcoming speech or presentation, let me introduce you to Jill Jaysen.

Our knight in shining armor, Jill Jaysen, is a Corporate Communications Coach and Strategist, as well as an AwardWinning Stockbroker, Award-Winning Playwright, Director, Producer, TV Actor, Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner and Motivational Speaker.

Jill not only talks the talk; she walks the walk. Her diverse background, which spans from corporate to creative, has allowed her to create major breakthroughs in the world of public speaking and corporate communications.

Jill states, “Your fear of public speaking has absolutely nothing to do with you, and everything to do with the fact that you’ve been mistaught.”

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How many times have you heard, “Imagine your audience naked, Practice in front of a mirror, videotape yourself, or maybe just breathe, you’ll get through it”. Jill lets us know - “The sad truth is; these gimmicks don’t work. They are a desperate attempt to cover up a failing methodology, and will ultimately sabotage you as a speaker.

Stripping away your confidence, and your power. Why settle for mediocre when you can be masterful?”

Well, that certainly explains why we’re letting public speaking haunt our nightmares. We’ve been misinformed, and the bottom line is, we need some serious help.

Which is precisely why this multitalented Guru has come up with a breakthrough approach that wins every time. Jill will take you by the hand, and coach you through her award winning process, all the way up to mastery.

According to Jill. “One size never fits all. That’s why I created the B.E.S.T. approach. A highly customized template for each client which becomes their powerful launch pad.”

Jill Jaysen & Nancy Moon Photography

Whether you’re standing behind a podium, sitting in a board room or being interviewed in front of a camera, Jill will transform you into the captivating, charismatic and compelling speaker you are meant to be.

The results speak for themselves.

Jill’s clients have received numerous awards and accolades, including Fortune Magazine’s 50 Most Powerful Leaders in The World, Time Magazines 100 Most Influential, Emmy awards, Tony awards and the list goes on.

MICHELLE CHARLESWORTH; Award-Winning, Anchor/ Reporter WABC-TV ‘Jill coaches like nobody’s business because she unlocks your best you!

Her unique methodology continues to raise the bar, building focus and selfconfidence. Her listening is unmatched and her enthusiasm contagious’.

There is some great news for those of you who want to finally speak your power. Jill is offering a free, one on one strategy session for our readers only. However, space is limited. To reserve your spot, e-mail Jill at info@ jaysencommunications.com, and be sure to write ‘Hollywood Weekly’ in the subject line.

It’s time for you to finally defeat the monster of public speaking, and Jill will stamp your ticket, by putting you on the fast track to your powerful transformation.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 31

Second Chance at Success Show provides a spotlight to individuals deserving representation and opportunity for a Second Chance at Success

P

aul & Tiffany Nutall are a dynamic duo who are motivated and driven by God to serve humanity through their life-changing TV shows: 2nd Chance Saves Lives, Forgotten Prisoners & Radio TV show. Both are passionate in helping the struggling and less fortunate and have been persistent in achieving their goals despite the hardships they endured in both of their lives.

PAUL K. NUTALL The world has proven time and time again to be a cruel place that drives people to act out in desperation and resort to decisions that put them in a more difficult situation. Once the act is done, it can be challenging for them to get back on their feet again. Paul Nutall understands the struggles of getting a second chance all too well and created the production 2nd Chance to help others get the opportunity to redeem themselves.

Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Paul Nutall was born to a single mother of nine children. From the very beginning, he knew what it was like to

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struggle. Despite the large hurdle life placed before him, Paul was able to stand on his own two feet, becoming a renowned gang-unit officer and three-time kickboxing world champion.

He would even oversee former NBA champion Sean Elliott’s karate training as his instructor. Although things were starting to look up, Paul’s family would wrongfully disown him. The situation drove him to leave San Antonio in 1994.

Paul eventually moved to Michigan, earning two Master’s degrees in Criminal Justice and Political Science. He used his degrees to become the Regional Youth specialist director at Wolverine Human Services, where he thrived for seventeen years. Despite how busy he had been, Paul continued training boxers, even sparring with Hall of Famer professional Chris Byrd. Their training sessions were instrumental to Byrd’s victory over Evander Holyfield. Additionally, Paul has contributed as a sparring partner for Hasim Rahman, helping him earn the heavyweight championship in 2001.

Once again, things were starting to look up, but by 2007, Paul Nutall would fall

victim to a wrongful conviction. Accused of a Nigerian scam, he would spend fourteen months in jail as he waited for his trial.

When the time finally came, the judge dropped the charges upon reviewing his innocence. Although he was free, Paul had to be picked up again shortly for his inability to pay child support.

After serving for six months, Paul would try to reconcile with his family. In the twenty-five years since he left, he discovered his mother had passed away in 2017. Life started to take a downhill turn as his father followed three months later. Tragedy continued to strike as Hurricane Harvey took his eldest twin daughters in Houston.

Most people would have given up and fallen into a deep depression, but Paul managed to march through the gloom of his trials and tribulations. He would later film a reality show where he would run into a girl he dated in the past. Paul would

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be forced to let her go and encounter more troubles, as she wrote a false report about him in an attempt to ruin his career and reputation. When confronted, it was revealed that she was jealous of another castmate that Paul would eventually marry.

Despite all the troubles he went through, Paul Nutall grew in faith, pushing forward to achieve his goals. Together with his wife, he would create the television program 2nd Chance Saves Lives and Forgotten Prisoners. Using their platforms, the couple has been helping people from Hollywood and all walks of life get the chance to redeem themselves. With the program gaining traction, Paul and his wife foresee their 2nd Chance generate spin-off shows. They also envision their franchise broadcasting to other countries to help other individuals. Regardless of what happens, Paul Nutall and his wife plan to use their platform to influence, motivate, and inspire the next generation.

TIFFANY L. NUTALL Tiffany Louise Nutall was born in Zamboanga, Philippines and was raised in Los Angeles, California since the age of 3. Years later, she grew to become an ambitious businesswoman, entrepreneur, inventor, and singer. She grew up being a loner, and through this self-discovery, her gifts and talents developed and prospered. She was looked upon as the “black sheep” of the family, due to her unique character traits, mindset, and general misunderstanding of her drive and ambition. Not willing to settle for an average lifestyle, she has taken a departure into the unprecedented, diverging from the normal existence, her family had not accepted. With her sights set for greater things, the only option was to further develop herself mentally through constant networking, expanding her knowledge, and surrounding herself with like-minded individuals. While living with her family, Tiffany began to mature into a young adult and by the age of 18, supported herself financially and invested in her own business ventures.

Relentless ambition led her to become the youngest at a prominent financial firm, where she received licensure at the age of 19. Shortly after she moved on from that field, realizing that her heart wanted to help individuals on a different platform. A product of beauty & brains, Tiffany then became a candidate for Miss Philippines-USA beauty pageant (pageant name changed) here in the states. Although she did not win the pageant due to patchy circumstances, her perspective is when one door closes, God has a greater one in store; a larger platform than what she had initially envisioned for herself.

Tiffany strongly believes that the mindset is where true success lies and not by just one’s physical appearance. There was another opportunity waiting, the door she was destined to enter, in which she would share all of her efforts, talents & passions with the world. By transforming her pain into power, at age 22 her hard work, dedication, & passion of bettering the lives of others led her to become the CEO & Founder of the 2nd Chance Saves Lives TV show & years later, Founder of the 2ndChance TV show & Production company, Forgotten Prisoners & 2nd Chance Radio TV show with her business partner whom she later married, fellow entrepreneur, Paul Nutall. Their likemindedness, passion, dedication and love of helping those in-need joined them together on a divine mission to save the world by leading the way to producing their upcoming hit TV show airing on the FOX network.

Q&A What exactly does your company do?

2nd Chance TV shows & Production company focuses on lending a helping hand to those in need through their TV shows: 2nd Chance Saves Lives, Forgotten Prisoners, & 2nd Chance Radio show. Each platform providing a spotlight to the voices deserving representation or recognition.

What were the biggest challenges you have faced and how did you overcome them?

PAUL: “The biggest challenge that I have faced in my life was when I was wrongly incarcerated for a crime that was not my fault. I ran from the secret service for 2 years under a different name because I felt I was being targeted because I was a black, successful male running a juvenile facility as the regional director.” After serving 14 months until my trial date, with God’s grace and my prayers, the federal judge saw my innocence and dropped 2-40 charges.

He left 1 charge on my record so that I could not come back to sue the government for wrongful imprisonment.

Because of this incident I could not return as a regional director and my two Master’s degrees were no longer useful. The challenge continued after my release, becoming homeless, and finding a new path in my life.”

TIFFANY: “My biggest challenge in life was having to pursue my own dreams and path in business, when my parents wanted me to pursue the medical field as they felt it was a safe field financially. Because of this, I was left to financially support myself and following my heart to find the business niche that was the right fit for me. After meeting my husband and creating our 2nd Chance Saves

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Lives TV show, I was disowned by my family because he was not the same ethnicity or age group as I was.

Being a family-oriented individual, that season of my life affected me emotionally, mentally, and at times in the workplace. Even today I am still healing from the traumatic truths of my past, but with constant prayer and my close relationship with God and the support of my husband, they have given me the strength I need to push forward in fulfilling the mission God has given me, to help people around the world.”

What piece of advice do you wish someone had given you at the start of your career? * PAUL: “To not trust everyone you meet, to be careful when it comes down to choosing the right people to be a part of the organization, and most importantly to rely on God and not in man.”

TIFFANY: “To see the best in people, but be prepared for the worst. Since the start of our journey, we have met and worked with people who in the end didn’t have the right motives or when they didn’t get their way, they spread toxicity to other members of the team. I can speak for myself that because I wanted everyone to succeed, finding out that they had said something negative about us without confronting us directly, really affected me. But now I have to see the best in people, but be prepared for the worst.”

Who are your biggest influences and why?

PAUL & TIFFANY: “Our biggest influence in our lives is God. He is the only one who made a way for us in our lives and has saved us from dangerous predicaments. When all doors seemed to have closed and we have reached the tipping point, He always sought us through and made a way when we saw there was no way. We wouldn’t be where we are today without His protection, grace, and mercy.”

None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are.

Paul & Tiffany: “Other than God, there has been a particular individual who has helped us in every area of our lives. We can’t mention just yet, but we wouldn’t be half the people we are today without this individual’s help.”

What do you believe will be the greatest success in your life?

PAUL: “Going global with our 2nd Chance Saves Lives & Forgotten Prisoners TV shows & uniting the world to help one another.”

TIFFANY: “I believe the greatest success in the future will remain the same success as today. Being in the position that I am in to help people in any way they need.”

How can people follow your journey?

WEBSITE: www.2ndchancesaveslives.org LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/2ndChanceTVProduction FACEBOOK: @2ndChanceSavesLives INSTAGRAM: @2nd_Chance_Saves_Lives TWITTER: @2ndChanceSaves

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Craig lives by his motto: PURPOSE BEFORE PROFIT. When asked what this means to him, Craig replies, “Think about others before yourself. Help children, soldiers and communities in need. Help as little as you can or as much as you can. When the purpose is before Profit, the Universe gives you many folds”

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