HW Lily Buckman Issue

Celebrating Diversity In The Entertainment Industry

DIRECTOR OF DREAMS

Calvin 'Cylk' Cozart

Lily BUCKMAN Miss Nation

HOLLYWOOD'S SUSHI CHEF

Chef Jeff Roberto

Letter from the Editor THE HOLIDAY season is officially here!

This Thanksgiving, our cover feature is Lily Buckman, a 21-year-old college student from South Carolina. This Maryland born model and multi-award pageant queen told us her big dreams, goals and ambitions. She is an advocate of women empowerment, world vision, human trafficking and racial equality aside from raising environmental awareness. Read her motivating story on page 20.

Some of our interesting stories inside:

PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Prather Jackson VICE PRESIDENT Bernice Harris Michael D. Coxson SENIOR BOOK CURATOR Jane Ubell-Meyer ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER Hailey Ashley CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alex A. Kecskes Elyce Hastings CREATIVE DIRECTOR Rouland Medina

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Hollywood's favorite sushi chef Jeff Roberto is on a roll! He is teaming up with business partners, producers and visionaries to take his culinary empire and taste of good living to a whole new level.

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Denise Chavez

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Read the updates of film submissions, winners and screenplays of the recently held Hollywood Weekly Magazine Film Festival 2021.

AFRICA OPERATIONS Egor Efiok Egorefiok@gmail.com

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The Dirt Merchants Films, A Motion Picture Company. An outstanding movie making team is creating an entirely new genre that’s fresh, fun and unique. Each film stands alone, with its own characters, actors, stories, and distinct artistic style.

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Sandra Scarlette is the embodiment of a modern independent woman. As a result of these experiences, she desires to empower women to self-express, be acknowledged and guide them towards becoming independent and self-reliant.

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Calvin 'Cylk" Cozart, an award winning director, actor, producer, writer and basketball player is currently promoting his latest directing venture ‘Inheriting The Land - Jim Crowe Meets Miss Maggie’s Will’, a documentary based on the book by Gene Stowe.

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Valentina Gurova, head of the PR-Aliyans agency. Her field of interest included social activism, charity, culture, art, and show business.

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Lisa Bagby, an actress, producer and author. She is a certified EMT whose life events turned her to writing books. She created Live It Wild Productions, an all female production team working on 12 stories and one dream.

Enjoy!

Prather Jackson

BRAZIL OPERATIONS Fabio Glingani Rico@lapenda.net (310) 567-3333 INDIA OPERATION Ike Sinha Mobile +919599068592 LATIN AMERICA Karla Silva Karla@monarks.Biz 818.254.5505 Jose Beltran wpsevents@gmail.com 562.546.2840 DISTRIBUTORS CoMag MADER NEWS

Publisher

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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Call: (424) 371-9900 Email: HollywoodWeekly@gmail.com Instagram: @ hollywoodweekly Twitter: @ hollywoodweekly

04 HOLLYWOOD'S SUSHI CHEF 12 HW FILM FESTIVAL 2021 14 LILY BUCKMAN 20 DIRT MERCHANTS FILMS 26 SANDRA SCARLETTE 28 CALVIN 'CYLK' COZART 32 VALENTINA GUROVA 36 I AM THAT GIRL 38 HW NEWS

Entertainment & Sports

Chef Jeff Roberto

Winners & Screenplays

Beauty, Brains & Beyond Motion Picture Company

Building Her Own Legacy Director of Dreams Q&A

Lisa Bagby

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 3

ROUNDUP

TV & FILM

Helen Mirren To Host Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses Four-Part Wizarding World Competition Event Set to Premiere on Cartoon Net­work and TBS, Followed by HBO Max Celebrates the 20th Anniversary of the Film Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone ACADEMY Award-winning actress Dame Helen Mirren is set to host Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses, the official title of the upcoming competition series that will showcase ultimate fan glory on a never-before-seen scale.

This special four-part event will unveil Wizarding World fans willing to put their Harry Potter knowledge to the test for the ultimate honor to be named House Cup champion.

“I knew someday I’d get a Harry Potter role, and I’m so pleased to take part in the 20-year film celebration,” said Mirren.

“The films inspired such enchantment and wonder for so many of us, and it will be such a treat to reignite that magic for the countless fans who continue to revel in this spellbinding world.”

Tom Ascheim, President, Warner Bros. Global Kids, Young Adults and Classics added: “We’re creating an arena for the leagues of Harry Potter film fans to flex their knowledge of the Wizarding World, and there’s no one better than Dame Helen Mirren to add some British grandeur to this event that will debut across our WarnerMedia brands and platforms.”

In celebration of the 20-year anniversary of the film Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, the special is set to tape later this month and premiere later this year as a simulcast event on Cartoon Network’s ACME Night and TBS, followed by its premiere on HBO Max. Warner Bros. Unscripted Television, in association with Warner Horizon and Robin Ashbrook and Yasmin Shackleton of theoldschool, will bring the magic of Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses alive.

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Photo by Giles Keyte

Mirren is also set to star as DC SuperVillain Hespera in New Line and DC’s upcoming Shazam! sequel, Shazam! Fury of the Gods for WarnerMedia. She is the first and only person to achieve the “triple crown of acting” in both the US and the UK and has also won a BAFTA Film Award, and an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance as Queen Elizabeth II in The Queen. Mirren also has a Tony Award and an Olivier Award for the same role in The Audience, three BAFTA Television Awards for her performance as DCI Jane Tennison in Prime Suspect, and four Primetime Emmy Awards, including two for the same role in Prime Suspect.

Nearly two decades since the global critical and box office hit of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses will continue the spirit of the Wizarding World.

Featuring hundreds of trivia questions and special guest surprises, this unforgettable event of a lifetime will unveil which fans know the vast, intricately detailed universe like the back of their hand. A play-along component will allow viewers to don their own Hogwarts robes and swish and flick their wands from home.

ROUNDUP

TV & FILM

Brand-New Trailer and Poster Debut for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ ‘Encanto’ WALT Disney Animation Studios shared a new trailer and poster this morning showcasing its upcoming feature film Encanto. The film tells the tale of the Madrigals, an extraordinary family who live in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. Each child has been blessed with a magic gift unique to them—each child except Mirabel. But when the family’s home is threatened, Mirabel may be their only hope.

Also revealed this morning—actor John Leguizamo (Critical Thinking, Ice Age) joins the voice cast. “I was so pumped to be asked to the party,” said Leguizamo.

“Lin-Manuel [Miranda] wrote me a rap, and I flipped out! Plus, this is such a beautiful story set in Colombia. It’s a first in so many ways. The magic is enchanting, the comedy is so sharp, and the world created is irresistible.”

Leguizamo lends his voice to Bruno, Mirabel’s uncle who’s gifted with the ability to see the future. Bruno’s honest, often doomsaying predictions aren’t always well received by the rest of the family, so he disappeared long ago, becoming the uncle no one talks about.

“Bruno is so compelling because he is

that guy that never quite fits in,” said Leguizamo. “He’s an outsider, but he also understands the world better because he’s always wanted to belong to it.”

The voice cast also includes Stephanie Beatriz as Mirabel; María Cecilia Botero as Mirabel’s grandmother Alma aka Abuela; Angie Cepeda and Wilmer Valderrama as Mirabel’s parents, Julieta and Agustín; and Diane Guererro and Jessica Darrow as Mirabel’s sisters,

Isabela and Luisa. Also lending their voices are Carolina Gaitán and Mauro Castillo as Mirabel’s aunt and uncle, Pepa and Félix; and Adassa, Rhenzy Feliz and Ravi Cabot-Conyers as Mirabel’s cousins Dolores, Camilo and Antonio, respectively.

The film features all-new songs by LinManuel Miranda (Hamilton, Moana) and is directed by Byron Howard (Zootopia, Tangled) and Jared Bush (co-director Zootopia), co-directed by Charise Castro Smith (writer The Death of Eva Sofia Valdez) and produced by Clark Spencer and Yvett Merino. Bush and Castro Smith are screenwriters on the film.

The filmmakers were deeply inspired by their research trip to Colombia during early development of “Encanto,” as well as their continuous work with a group of expert consultants assembled through the course of the film’s production. Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto opens in theaters November 24, 2021.

SHOWTIME PRESENTS EVEN MORE FUNNY WOMEN OF A CERTAIN AGE

Photo: Callie Biggerstaff/Courtesy of SHOWTIME

THE hit comedy showcase FUNNY WOMEN OF A CERTAIN AGE makes its return to SHOWTIME with a third comedy special, EVEN MORE FUNNY WOMEN OF A CERTAIN AGE. Emmy nominee and SAG

Award winner Teri Hatcher (Desperate Housewives) leads a cast of female comedy veterans in her debut comedy special for a night of over-the-top uninhibited stand-up.

The hour-long special also stars Carole Montgomery, Wendy Liebman, Monique Marvez, Leighann Lord and Marsha Warfield, who talk sex, dating and how they hilariously made it through the pandemic.

Filmed at the Irvine Improv in Orange County, California, EVEN MORE FUNNY WOMEN OF A CERTAIN AGE premieres on Wednesday, November 24 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. EVEN MORE FUNNY WOMEN OF A CERTAIN AGE is part of a monthly comedy showcase in New York and Los Angeles

hosted by creator Montgomery, a wellknown fixture on the comedy scene who has performed for more than 40 years. She’s made numerous television appearances, including Politically Incorrect and Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn, starred in two long-running Las Vegas revues and made nearly a dozen tours around the world for Armed Forces Entertainment, performing for our troops.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 5

ROUNDUP

MUSIC

2021 “SOUL TRAIN AWARDS” PREMIERES CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF THE ICONIC “SOUL TRAIN” LEGACY AND AIRING FOR THE FIRST TIME FROM THE WORLD FAMOUS APOLLO BET announced the 2021 “Soul Train Awards” will showcase an even bigger lineup of performances, special moments, and appearances, by some of the biggest stars in R&B, Gospel, Urban Adult Contemporary and Soul. On the heels of her first No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 Chart for her second studio LP, Still Over It, R&B singer-songwriter Summer Walker joins the exciting line-up of performers at this year’s Awards. Fred Hammond, and BET Amplified artists Elhae and Marzz will take the stage, along with Soul of Justice honorees Ciara and Russell Wilson and Marley Dias. Rap legends Fat Joe and Ja Rule as well as R&B icon El Debarge will make special appearances. Additionally, BET announced the second group of presenters who will take the stage: Jazmine Sullivan, Normani, Hosea Chanchez and Wendy Raquel Robinson from The Game, a Paramount+ Original series, Devale Ellis and Crystal Hayslett from the cast of Tyler Perry’s Sistas on BET. The 2021 “Soul Train Awards” presented

by BET premieres Sunday, November 28th at 8 PM ET/PT on BET and BET Her. The 2021 “Soul Train Awards” will simulcast internationally on BET Africa at 2am CAT on November 29th and air on BET France on December 1st, at 10:30pm CET. The show will also be available to watch on My5 and Sky On-Demand, in the UK, beginning December 3rd.

Previously announced performers include the 2021 “Soul Train Awards” Legend Award honoree Maxwell, Lady of Soul honoree Ashanti, R&B super duo Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak of Silk Sonic, R&B/Soul songstress Ari Lennox, soul singer-songwriter and producer Leon Bridges, R&B singer Lucky Daye, and more.

6 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

Anderson.Paak and Bruno Mars of Silk Sonic Previously announced presenters include: Mack Wilds, and Parker McKenna Posey, from BET series Games People Play and Paula Patton from BET+ Original series, Sacrifice.

As previously announced, the participants in the 2021 “Soul Train Awards” annual Soul Cypher will include: D-Nice, Musiq Soulchild, Jac Ross, Koryn Hawthorne, Elle Varner, and Tone Stith.

H.E.R. leads the 2021 “Soul Train Awards'' nominations with an impressive eight nods for ‘Best R&B/Soul Female Artist,’ ‘Song of the Year,’ ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘The Ashford and Simpson Songwriter’s Award (x2),’ ‘Best Collaboration (x2),’ and ‘Video of the Year’. Jazmine Sullivan and Chris Brown garnered the second most nods with six nominations each. Jazmine Sullivan’s nods include ‘Best R&B/Soul Female Artist,’ ‘Song of the Year,’ ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘The Ashford and Simpson Songwriter’s Award,’ ‘Best Collaboration,’ and ‘Video of the Year’. Chris Brown’s nods include ‘Best R&B/Soul Male Artist,’ ‘The Ashford and Simpson Songwriter’s Award,’ ‘Best Dance Performance,’ ‘Best

Collaboration (x2),’ and ‘Video of the Year’.

Wizkid and TEMS are the third highest with five nods each, followed by Blxst with four nods. Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic, Doja Cat, and Yung Bleu each have three nods.

Three-time GRAMMY® award-winning singer-songwriter and producer Maxwell will receive the Legend award at the 2021 “Soul Train Awards.” Award-winning and multi-platinum singer/songwriter, actor, entrepreneur, and author Ashanti, will be the recipient of the Lady of Soul honor.

Dynamic best-friend duo Tisha Campbell and Tichina Arnold will return as co-hosts of the 2021 “Soul Train Awards,” bringing their irreplaceable energy and hilarious comedic talents to this year’s show.

BET will host its first-ever 2021 “Soul Train Awards” weekend, a multiplatform experience celebrating the best in culture, commerce, entertainment, music and more. The three-day event will also celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Soul Train and the premiere of the 2021 “Soul Train Awards,” taping for the first time ever at the World Famous Apollo in New York City.

ROUNDUP

MUSIC

KYGO RELEASES NEW TRACK FT. X AMBASSADORS GLOBAL superstar, producer and DJ, Kyrre Gørvell-Dahll – a.k.a Kygo releases his new song “Undeniable” ft. X Ambassadors today. Listen HERE. “Undeniable”, out now via RCA Records is the follow up to Kygo’s most recent release “Love Me Now” ft. Zoe Wees which was released this summer and “Gone Are The Days” ft. James Gillespie which was released in the Spring.

Kygo says, “Sam and I had so much fun writing this one together in LA then performing it last month at Banc of California Stadium. It’s a special song to us and I hope everyone likes “Undeniable” as much as we do.”

X Ambassadors lead singer/songwriter Sam Nelson Harris says, “I’ve always had an affinity for big-ass love songs but don’t often end up writing them. This one came together so organically and quickly— it was such a treat to write it with Kash, Nick, Whethan and Kyrre. I honestly couldn’t be more excited to sing it at all my friends weddings.”

Kygo recently played a massive sold out show in Los Angeles at the Banc of California Stadium in early September.

This followed his triumphant first live show back in front of a crowd, where he sold out the historic Red Rocks amphitheater in June. He recently announced, and then sold out within 10 minutes the biggest stadium in Oslo (Ullevaal Stadium) for a show scheduled for July 2nd, 2022. He continues his ongoing residency at The Wynn in Las Vegas. Additionally, through his lifestyle brand Palm Tree Crew, he recently threw his one-of-a-kind intimate festival experience, Palm Tree Music Festival at the Francis S. Gabreski Airport in Westhampton, NY. The single-day event

ALESSIA LAUNCHES IN THE MEANTIME WITH DEVASTATING NEW SINGLE “BEST DAYS”

captured the feeling of summer in paradise and featured performances by Kygo himself, Zedd, Gryffin (DJ Set), Frank Walker and Forester.

2020 was a massive year for Kygo. He released a remix of Donna Summer’s Grammy Award winning, platinum, #1 song “Hot Stuff” as well as a remix of Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got To Do With It” to rave reviews. He also released his critically acclaimed third full-length album Golden Hour which features his hit single “Lose Somebody” with OneRepublic as well as “Higher Love” with Whitney Houston, the latter of which has garnered over 1.1 billion streams worldwide and charted at Top 40 radio.

Earlier this year Kygo performed a breathtaking set which was livestreamed on Moment House. Filmed on a snowcapped mountain top in the Sunnmore Alps in his home country of Norway, the one-of-a-kind virtual experience allowed audiences around the world to watch the global superstar deliver a careerspanning set amidst a breathtaking environment unlike anywhere they’ve seen him perform before.

GRAMMY Award®-winning singersongwriter Alessia Cara releases highly anticipated new album IN THE MEANTIME and reveals new video for “Best Days,” today via Def Jam Record­­ings. Alessia launches her third album tonight with a performance of “Best Days” on NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, a performance at the star-studded 10th annual Global Citizen Festival, a 24-hour broadcast from New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and other locations across six continents. On Monday, she will return to Good Morning America for another performance of “Best Days.”

NEW ALBUM FROM L.O.L. SURPRISE!™ – FIERCE – AVAILABLE NOW FOLLOWING the release of their debut album Remix, which accumulated more than 160 million views on YouTube, L.O.L. Surprise!™, the leading toy brand from MGA Entertainment release their highly anticipated follow up album, Fierce, available now on all streaming platforms via Sony Music’s Magic Star/Masterworks labels. Coinciding with the album release is the arrival of L.O.L. Surprise! The Movie on Netflix featuring new music from Fierce.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 7

ROUNDUP

SPORTS

LOS ANGELES TO HOST 2022 SUPER BOWL LVI AT SOFI STADIUM

Super Bowl Host Committee Unveils Logo & Plan

IN one year, Los Angeles will welcome the Super Bowl to the region for the first time in nearly three decades. Super Bowl LVI will take place at SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park in Inglewood in February 2022.

Los Angeles hosted the first Super Bowl in 1967 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, and the last time the game was played in Los Angeles was in 1993 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA. Today, the Los Angeles Super Bowl Host Committee, led by Chairman Casey Wasserman, unveiled the official Los Angeles Super Bowl Host Committee logo and launch video, featuring Los Angeles icon, Snoop Dogg, alongside the NFL’s trademark Super Bowl LVI mark. All eyes will be on the greater Los Angeles region and the transformative SoFi Stadium, as NBC will televise professional sports’ most popular and watched game that will be broadcast to more than 180 countries and territories.

Wasserman unveiled the Los Angeles Host Committee’s logo, inspired by the iconic SoFi Stadium building design, 8 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

and the campaign tagline “Champions Shine Here,” as a way to spotlight the spirited, authentic, and inclusive community that Los Angeles represents and kick off the decade of major events coming to the region starting with Super Bowl LVI in 2022.

“Today more than ever the Super Bowl stands for hope and perseverance,” said Casey Wasserman, Chairman, Los Angeles Super Bowl Host Committee. “We are proud and excited that Los Angeles will once again host the nation’s biggest sporting event, however it’s the promise of recovery and opportunity that Super Bowl LVI brings to our City’s people and industries that reigns supreme.”

“Since Los Angeles hosted the first Super Bowl back in 1967, the Super Bowl has become a spectacle larger than the league could have ever imagined,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “The return of the Super Bowl to this region is in large part thanks to Stan Kroenke‘s commitment to delivering this game-

changing project at Hollywood Park. We are thrilled to be partnering with the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission, SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park, the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Chargers to bring the nation’s biggest sporting event to Los Angeles and Inglewood for Super Bowl LVI. “Los Angeles is a global capital for athletic achievement -- a place that understands the power of sports to unite and inspire, awe and amaze, support job creation and spur economic growth, and lift the spirits of entire communities,” said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

“Playing host to Super Bowl LVI will allow local businesses to score critical victories for our workforce, showcase our city’s commitment to equity and inclusion, and kick off another age of positive change for Angelenos and fans everywhere.”

“SoFi Stadium in Inglewood is the finest stadium in the country and will continue to host the greatest events,” said Inglewood Mayor James Butts.

“The NFL is giving local diverse and minority-owned businesses a chance to compete for substantial contracts through its Business Connect program. That program will help a range of local businesses -- caterers, sign makers, event producers, cleaning services, and more – compete for and win subcontracts to support the many events leading up to and surrounding the Super Bowl.”

“We are proud to host Super Bowl LVI and will work with all our partners to deliver an extraordinary and unparalleled experience next February,” said Los Angeles Rams Owner/Chairman and SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park Developer E. Stanley Kroenke. “We ask that fans continue to do all they can to stay safe so that we can be together next year at SoFi Stadium. Aside from the great competition and entertainment that are hallmarks of Super Bowl, we look forward to celebrating the many frontline workers who are already making this event possible through their amazing sacrifices and commitment.”

For all updates related to Los Angeles hosting Super Bowl LVI, please visit LASuperBowlHC.com

ROUNDUP

SPORTS

Pelinka's Pre-Preseason Presser THE first press conference of the 202122 season was handled by Lakers VP of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka on Thursday afternoon, when he shared an important piece of information regarding the team’s potential availability on the court.

“We’ve worked really hard with our UCLA Health partners, and our team doctors, our players, agents and family members … We will be, on opening night when we play the Golden State Warriors, all of the players that are currently signed on our roster that night will be deemed fully vaccinated. We’re grateful for that.”

In aiming to reach the same goal that was accomplished in 2020 with a championship, Pelinka said there were three things he and his staff aimed to get done through the free agency period.

“One was adding a primary playmaker,” he explained. “Two was shooting. And three was shifting back to, especially defensively, a model of two rebounding, defensive centers like we had when we won the championship in 2020. Those were the goals we had in mind, and I think if you look at the complexion of the roster, we feel like we addressed each of those three goals. We feel good about that.”

Russell Westbrook certainly answers the “primary playmaker” question, with Rajon Rondo’s return boosting the bench, not to mention Kendrick Nunn.

Wayne Ellington, Carmelo Anthony, Kent Bazemore and Malik Monk all address that goal as well.

Meanwhile, Pelinka’s reference to the 2020 squad’s center pairing of Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee (now with Phoenix) was accomplished through the acquisition of DeAndre Jordan to pair with Howard himself, who returns after a season in Philadelphia.

Yet of course, it all revolves around LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

“LeBron has been in working hard and AD is a quiet worker – he goes about his business,” said Pelinka.

One of the most difficult elements of the previous season was the lack of fans able to come to Staples Center due to COVID-19 protocols, a fact mentioned often by all of the players, most of all LeBron. But with the expectation of a full building, Pelinka relayed the team’s excitement for the season opener on Oct. 19 against the Golden State Warriors.

Dodgers activate Cody Bellinger THE Los Angeles Dodgers activated infielder/outfielder Cody Bellinger from the injured list and placed infielder Albert Pujols on the injured list.

Bellinger, 26, was placed on the injured list with a left rib fracture, missing eight games. He has played in 89 games this year and is batting .159 with nine doubles, nine homers and 34 RBI. The 2019 National League MVP has been with the Dodgers five seasons, batting a combined .257 with 107 doubles, 132 homers and 352 RBI. The 2017 National League Rookie of the Year was originally drafted by the Dodgers in the fourth round of the 2013 First Year

Player Draft out of Hamilton High School.

Pujols, 41, has been with the Dodgers since May 17 and he is batting .255 (47-for-184) with 12 homers and 38 RBI in 82 games with the Boys in Blue. The three-time National League Most Valuable Player is in his 21st season in the Major Leagues and has amassed 679 homers and 2,150 RBI in 2,968 career games.

MLS & LIGA MX Clubs to Pause Seasons in 2023 IN a monumental new chapter for North American soccer, beginning in 2023, all of the clubs from the top two first division leagues in North America -- Major League Soccer and LIGA MX -- will compete in a completely reimagined Leagues Cup: an annual, month-long, tournament.

Both leagues will pause their respective seasons for one month during the summer to play Leagues Cup, showcasing the soccer infrastructure and capabilities in the region in the years leading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the U.S., Canada and Mexico -- the first World Cup to feature 48 countries.

FIFA Vice President and Concacaf President Victor Montagliani joined MLS Commissioner Don Garber and Liga MX President Mikel Arriola at a press conference in New York for today’s historic announcement. Montagliani, Garber and Arriola announced that the new Leagues Cup will be an official competition of the Concacaf Champions League (CCL), with the tournament champion earning automatic qualification for the CCL round of 16. In addition, clubs finishing second and third in Leagues Cup starting in 2023 will qualify for the Opening Round of the CCL. As the latest and most ambitious step in the growing partnership between MLS and LIGA MX to further elevate the special rivalry between leagues, Leagues Cup 2023 will make history as the first major soccer tournament to feature every club from a pair of top-flight leagues.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 9

The

ROSE BREAST CANCER SOCIETY

T

he Rose Breast Cancer Society is a 501.c3 non-profit organization and “Living Memorial” for Juanita Zara Espinosa Uddin, the multi-talented artist and mother of Carmelita Pittman who founded the organization 1998. Carmelita is a multi-dimensional artist who coined the term “EDUtainment” to describe the production of the Rose Variety Arts Show, a Fine and Performing Arts , Wellness event in an inspirational setting. The 14th Rose Variety Arts Show was held on 6 1/2 acres on the grounds of Virginia Robinson Gardens, Beverly Hills. The mission is to promote: “Education for the prevention and intervention of breast cancer.” Keynote speaker Dr. Cherilyn Lee Phd. is an Honorary member. It is also an arts based organization which is currently producing the “ Gardens of Life/ Alley-O-Graphy” mural in association with the ARTery USA founded by S Senior Senator (retired) Pasqual Bettio FRPS and Deborah Gillman in Mid-City Los Angeles.

prospective painting by CARMELITA to be added to the Gardens of Life/ Alley-O-Graphy mural in Mid City Los Angeles. medium: acrylic

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There is scientific evidence of the benefit of the arts in promoting health. The project has met respect and enjoyment by the neighborhood and the Longwood Manor Retirement Hospital on which it is currently being developed. The Rose Breast Cancer Society is sponsoring the project and seeking $25,000 to complete it. The Dept. of Cultural Affairs is lending support. It will materialize between Highland and Rimpau along the Washington Corridor., Los Angeles, Calif. Send tax deductible checks payable to The Rose Breast Cancer Society 8549 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 1136, Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Juanita Zara Espinosa Beginning of Gardens of Life/ Alley-O-Graphy mural painted by Katherine Uddin who loved roses and Arion of Romania. Senior Senator (retired) Pasqual Bettio FRPS is seen mother of Carmelita Pittman. with appreciative neighborhood children. photo by Tom Porter 10 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

Carmelita Pittman Founder of The Rose Breast Cancer Society , wearing Strutwearable Art by Pasqual | photo by Raul Alonso

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 11

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he Hollywood Sushi Chef that has served every event from Political and sports Gala’s, to on the sets of major Blockbusters and all the way to the red carpet; just to say the least. Roberto seems to be on Hollywood’s speed dial when you need the best sushi experience for the most amount of people. Now, Hollywood is reaching out for a different reason.

Today, you can find Roberto in front of the cameras more often than behind them. ‘Chef Jeff’ as he is known to the community, is now the star of his own show in production, ‘Crazy Great Sushi’. Roberto is looking to upgrade and update the concept of the old “cooking show”. This chef is teaming up with business partners, producers and visionaries Jeff Diaz and Joshua Bollinger to take his culinary empire and taste of good living to a whole new level.

The show will showcase some of his upcoming events for his catering company ‘Sushi on a Roll’(S.O.A.R) behind the scenes where viewers can see just how crazy his great sushi can get.

Along with tours and access to places that only VIPs like Chef Roberto can get us into. Add a little bit of comedy with skits and special effects, and you will get a taste of what Chef Roberto has in store for viewers.

With or without the cameras Roberto consistently catches the attention of those he serves. It is not a flashy appearance or his ability to feed thousands with just one knife. It is his genuine involvement with those he serves that opens doors to the most eye candy views; and that’s not just the food we’re describing.

“Jeff is a Magician, I swear. Always busting out things from under his sleeve.” says chef Sergio Garcia Manriquez, former employee of Roberto and now owner of Dos Tierras Chicano Soulfood.

It’s true, Roberto was first featured in Hollywood Weekly in March of 2017. After receiving his Epicurean Award for his catering out of Barrio Logan, San Diego. Less than two years later he picked up and moved his operation to an almost historical Japanese store front in National City and broke the record for the most rolled sushi within 24 hours. All in one year.

Roberto has served on sets of multiple blockbusters like, ‘Titanic’, ‘The Grinch who Stole Christmas’ and ‘Beowulf’. He has catered at several different movie premiers like ‘Men in Black 2’ and ‘Stealth’. Of course he could not avoid five years serving at the MTV movie, Teen choice and Comedy Central Awards. He Designed and opened several Sushi Bars including Jr. Seus’s restaurant ‘Seau’s’ in San Diego. He has catered major sporting

The Chef on Hollywood’s Speed Dial:

Chef Jeff Roberto

by Stacelyn Labio & Marlon Luna de la fuente

events including The Jimmie Johnson and Ronnie Lott Golf Tournaments, as well as Tony Gwynn’s retirement party and Tony Hawks Private parties. Not to mention the 2003 Superbowl where he somehow served 55,000 pieces of sushi in 4 days. He has even catered at political events, like President Clinton’s fundraisers and several different military events. ‘Chef Jeff’ is the guy you fly out to where you are to take care of what you need no matter how many people you need served, and he’ll make it look great!

Now, he invites viewers to actually see the magic.

He will soon be opening another Sushi Showroom as a set for his new show in production. Viewers will witness his fast paced and intricately puzzled sushi empire with all the crazy flashy ins and outs of the industry.

Surrounded by a great production team, sushi chefs, writing crew, and of course a great fusion of food. A natural in the pressures of the spotlight, chef Roberto’s charisma is probably his best kept secret, a key ingredient in why his great success and respect among the local and international community keeps SOAR-ing.

The never-shy chef has already begun his ascent into sushi streams and large-group Zoom sushi classes for companies and high-end clients looking to have fun and learn while making great sushi and other fun foods.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 13

And the winners are...

MAGAZINE

FILM FESTIVAL

2021

Hollywood Weekly Magazine Film Festival Best Film Round Ups

BEST DOCUMENTARY GEORGE FLOYD: SAY THEIR NAMES When will the “last” time be the LAST time? Chris Oledude’s single “George Floyd” has now been re-presented in the powerful video, “George Floyd: Say Their Names.” America’s struggle for equality and fairness throughout law enforcement parallels those struggles faced by minority groups in every society where the majority feels empowered to disregard civil and human rights. The pressure for change must continue. No justice? No peace!

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY LITTLE FRENCH FISH Lea is an artist from an Eastern European Jewish family. Djamil is a young man from the Middle East. They accidentally meet in Paris and fall in love. Their story is filled with passion, romance, and profound tenderness, but it cannot last long as they choose family traditions over their own happiness. One day, when they accidentally spot each other in a dark cinema hall.

BEST PICTURE FOR MOVIE THRILLER

GRAVEL WOUNDS A mother struggles with alcohol addiction tries to put the pieces of her life back together.

BEST HISTORICAL DOCUMENTARY INHERIT THE LAND Inherit the Land, based on the 2006 history Inherit the Land: Jim Crow Meets Miss Maggie’s Will, tells the story from its 19th-century origins to the present.

BEST INSPIRATIONAL - WOMEN XENTASTIC Xenyatta (Xen), is Spencer’s new girlfriend. Spencer really likes her, but her strange behavior worries him. Xen’s ultra-confidential profession is transporting precious gems for insurance companies.

BEST INSPIRATIONAL - YOUTH

VINO ROYALE This musically-charged, women’s empowerment thriller, tells the story of Laurie, a twenty-something law student, who must travel to Italy and face a gang of ruthless mobsters in order to save the life of her true love.

BEST SCIENCE FICTION FUJIYAMA Two futuristic lady cops are on a mission to track down and catch criminals in a world that is driven by gadgets and technology.

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BEST INSPIRATIONAL - LIFE

ECCENTRA The Amassi stones hold extraordinarily eccentric powers. And when placed in the hands of high school teen Melanie Vaughn, she must learn how to handle many different relationships, especially the one with the stones.

BEST HORROR THE LITTLE CHAPEL “The Little Chapel,” focuses on a young girl named Stacy who tries to bring her friend back from the dead after a terrible accident, but unfortunately events take a turn for the worse.

SCREENPLAY REVIEWS MARS IS OURS – CLIFF PARIS When a robotic engineer and unwilling astronaut takes a week-long trip to Mars, he leaves a robot version of himself in his place in an attempt to keep an open line of communication with his family.

Through a multitude of issues, we are left to wonder who will survive, if anyone. With a hint of a love story, and a few laughs in between, we are left wondering is there a greater journey ahead for our species? A fast paced, action-packed sci-fi thriller.

Filled with various story lines and moving parts. Interesting and would most certainly appeal to any robot loving audience.

An interesting take on the final chapter of the human race and leaves you pondering how you would deal with being put in the position of many of the characters.

TOO BAD ABOUT SNOWBALL – PAUL LARSEN A dark comedy about a group of young filmmakers experiencing a financial hardship. They are hired by a pair of shady businessmen making promises that seem too good to be true.

They sign up to create films about saving the environment, but little do they know, they are in for a rude awakening when they realize the true intentions of their shady saviors. An entertaining, humorous take on the serious issue of climate change. The characters are relatable, and the storyline seems to be an easy way to reach a generation of millennial viewers by discussing a subject that has created many conflicting opinions all around the world. A unique form of what seems to be a ‘rom-com’ with a globally recognized, and debated issue intertwined.

FLOCK HERS – JAMES SAMUEL (TV SERIES) A group of young women decide they are done with their nine to fives. They all decide to get plastic surgeries and use social media platforms to get attention from men, and ultimately take anything and everything that’s not given to them, by any means necessary. The struggle to form these relationships without developing real feelings pans out to be difficult, and some of the sticky situations they find themselves in are more difficult to navigate than anticipated. In the world we live in today, many people thrive off appearance which translates into followers and likes. This story takes us on a journey that shows the lengths some women will go to in order to get their designer bags and shoes. The characters are relatable, and the storyline shows how quickly things can go downhill while on the hunt for fame fortune, and materialistic beauty.

GET THA STRAP – JAMES SAMUEL A cautionary tale that takes you inside the world of guns. Buying them, selling them and what they may be used for once they’re out of our hands. In this story, we learn that bullets don’t discriminate. This script really makes you think about the dangers that can happen when discarding or acquiring a gun. It allows us to take a different look and think a little harder about what can happen when a gun gets into the wrong hands, or how terribly wrong your plans can go when you don’t know how to properly use a firearm. Regardless of your beliefs, this eye-opening screenplay opens your mind and takes you by surprise.

THE REVVER – MICHAEL HANSON & KELLY MOOTHART This is a story of a woman who is constantly interrupted from doing her artwork by her noisy neighbor. While he revs his truck and causes commotion, she is set over the edge and decides to take action. A short with a clever spin on women empowerment. With a relatable conflict, she leaves the female viewers giggling, knowing they’ve all wished they could do something similar everyone in a while. Very clever, with a hint of gore and comedy.

MUAY THAI RAINBOW – KULLACHAT JITCAJONWANICH The film stars a man who has surgeries to become a woman and is in a relationship with a professional Muay Thai fighter, who dreams of becoming a world champion. When he falls into the wrong crowd, he gets poisoned, he ends up disabled after losing. It’s then when his partner decides to un-do all of the surgeries and revert back to being a male so that they can carry on their love’s dream of becoming a champion, and fight for him. A very interesting and unique story, unlike one I’ve ever seen. With elements of drama, action, sports and a one-of-a-kind love story, it certainly keeps your interest throughout all the twists and turns.

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SCREENPLAY REVIEWS UNSF RAPETO – ROBIN SCHER This futuristic sci-fi is full of twists, turns & action. The hints of comedy throughout the story are sure to make the audience chuckle and gives lighter moments throughout. An Interesting take on what the future could hold & is sure to be loved amongst sci-fi lovers.

DANCING IN THE WHITE ROOM – DAVID SABBATH In a world where humans use machines, then wear machines, and then the machines gain power. When a message is seen on the walls of the subway 50 years prior, it turns into the battle cry of the anti-techno revolution.

This is a sci-fi tale, which is packed with action and thrill. The lines between human, machine and terror are blurred. This original take on futuristic ‘whatif’s’ leaves you on the edge of your seat.

MONSTERLY – DAMIAN WAMPLER This is a tale of a monster that is killed by human cops. It’s then a suburban family must choose a side when riots between humans and monsters rage across the United States. This story is an excellent mixture of the stigma of monsters, and the choice one family must make to do what they feel is the right thing. It is an actionpacked story unlike one I’ve ever heard. The storyline is extremely clever and leaves the audience with conflicting emotions throughout the entire story.

AT THE MERCY OF FAITH – SAMUEL TAYLOR This is a story of a young preacher who renounces his faith in God after a terrifying and traumatic encounter. After many years, the demons of his past viciously return to wreak havoc on his home and rip out his soul for the god of their hell. This is a tale of faith that takes a turn to horror. The drama filled story gives the audience a different look on the faith we all have, and how some believe we may be punished if that faith is not upheld. An interesting storyline, and action packed screenplay with shocking twists.

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BURMA HELL – THEODORE C. SODERBERG When a sailor brings his family on his ship to save his marriage, it takes a turn for the worst when a horrific explosion turns many into mutants, including the captain and officers. As the sailor, along with his wife and son fight for survival, we learn the shup is rocketing towards the Golden Gate Bridge. A story filled with action, adventure, monsters and a hint of love. Wonderful characters that you want to root for. A unique story that puts the audience through a wave of various emotions throughout.

MURDERESS OF DEMONS – JULIO CESAR CARBALLO In an action-packed horror, a powerful sorceress and her friend confront bandits and demons to save the world. But, when they make the fatal mistake of breaking reality, the create a black hole that destroys the planet. When the sorceress realizes that her dreams become reality, an angel who betrayed God comes from beyond to revive the demons to a keep a promise they once made. This is a fast-paced, action filled, and entertaining storyline. The characters are extremely interesting, and the audience could easily become emotionally attached to them.

MISS HOLLYWOOD – JOHN KESTNER When a small-time actress is lured by an infamous drug dealer, just as the CIA is about to make a bust.

When the drug lord’s teen son becomes obsessed with the actress, things get interesting. This twisted love story is full of action and adventure. An incredible story about an average woman trying to do her best to make it in the entertainment industry but gets taken down the wrong path. A nail-biting tale that leaves you wanting more.

By Hailey Ashley

BEST SCREENPLAYS 2ND DATE – JAIK ANDINO & VINCENT V. SHADE

THE KISS-OFF – GIO FORLENZA

A fabulous, twisted comedy about a pair of friends whose loyalty is put to the test. They will discover how far they are willing to go to find the love of their lives. A dramatic story of hopeless romantics that are desperate to find love in their 30’s. The conflict is, the pair struggles to be with, or without each other. An issue that many people face in the real world makes this story very relatable and hooks the audience in with incredible characters. You truly root for these characters, and root for love to win.

When a disenchanted Brooklyn bagman chooses to help the feisty woman that ripped him off, he defies the family that adopted him in his time of need as an orphan. This actionpacked story leaves you wanting more after each scene. The twisted relationship between the main characters puts a new spin on the lengths we will go for what we truly desire, regardless of any logic.

MOTEL 13 – BRANDON RHINESS While searching for a new husband/father for their twisted family, a clan of temptresses made up of a mother and her two adult daughters lure unexpecting men to Motel 13. They hold them captive at the motel, which they own, with a goal of continuing their family tradition of murder. A one-of-a-kind storyline full of thrilling entertainment and a mystery that left me wanting more. The hilarious characters and ‘family’ dynamic was original, and well thought out. A good mix of horror, gore, humor and mystery.

BLACK COLLAR – JAMES SAMUEL (TV SERIES) With little to no resources, a young African American man figures out a way to make significant amounts of money without violence. He uses his intelligence to find loopholes in the white-collar world to support his unique lifestyle.

This based on real life story is something that I could see on HBO Max one day. With a string of interesting characters, and various relationships between them all, it’s hard not to get fully indulged in the storylines. The possibilities and potential in this series seems to be endless, with the potential to play throughout many seasons.

BAD LOVE STRIKES – KEVIN SCHEWE In this story we enter a masterful world of sci-fi, time travel, and WWII. In a small town in Tennessee, a gang of kids live daring lives filled with action and adventure. When they come across a time machine, they travel back on a deathdefying mission to Nazi-occupied Poland.

Full of danger, excitement and a little love, the kids race to rescue a group of Holocaust prisoners from certain death.

It’s an excellent combination of Goonies meets the Lost Ark & we couldn’t get enough!

A FALL FROM GRACE – DAVID A. SEADER When everyone knows the truth, there’s only one thing to do – survive. This drama filled story grabs your attention within the first few moments. The characters are so relatable, it seems as though you know them in your own life. Through the struggles, the inspirational story shows that we can get through all our hardships, together. A wonderful story that seems to show a glimpse of all the cracks in our mental health system.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 17

EBONY REPERTORY THEATRE PRESENTS

Blues in the Night

The Tony and Olivier Award-nominated musical EBONY REPERTORY Theatre (ERT) announces full cast and creative team for BLUES IN THE NIGHT, the Tony and Olivier Award-nominated musical conceived by Sheldon Epps.

Presented by Ebony Rep, in association with International City Theatre, ERT’s Founder and Producing Artistic Director Wren T. Brown (ERT’s Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill) directs this powerful and soulful blues celebration. Featuring choreography

by Keith Young (ERT’s Five Guys Named Moe and The Gospel at Colonus) and music direction by William Foster McDaniel (Bubbling Brown Sugar, Timbuktu! and Ainʼt Misbehavinʼ, the limited engagement will play at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center (4718 West Washington Boulevard) in Los Angeles.

Performances will run November 12, 2021 – December 5, 2021, with the official opening on Saturday, November 13 at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets are now on sale at EbonyRep.org.

This luminary cast of four stars two-time Tony Awardwinner Vivian Reed (Broadway’s Bubbling Brown Sugar, The High Rollers Social and Pleasure Club) as The Lady from the Road, also starring Clinton Derricks-Carroll(Broadway’s Your Arms Too Short to Box with God, Dreamgirls, West End’s Five Guys Named Moe) as The Man in the Saloon, Ovation Award-winner Karole Foreman (ERT’s Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill, A Little Night Music), and Jenna Gillespie Byrd (Recorded in Hollywood at the Kirk Douglas Theatre) as The Girl with a Date.

Set in 1948 in a Chicago hotel that has seen better days, the interwoven stories of BLUES IN THE NIGHT evoke the misery and humor of life, love and the dogged determination to do more than just survive. The drama reveals itself through glorious songs by Bessie Smith, Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer, Alberta Hunter, Harold Arlen, Jimmy Cox, Ida Cox and more.

“I am truly excited to bring Blues in the Night to our theatrical home, the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center. Our committed audience and our surrounding community extended great support to us during the shutdown, and we cannot wait to place the gem that is Blues in the Night, conceived by my beloved friend and colleague Sheldon Epps, into a setting that allows it to shine most brightly,” said Director and ERT Producing Artistic Director, Wren T. Brown. “When I first saw the show 30 years ago at the Los Angeles Theatre Center, it absolutely knocked me out and has stayed with me from that day to this. Additionally, I feel greatly fortunate to have assembled this extraordinary group of actors, designers, and musicians to come together in a work 18 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

that examines and celebrates the joy and pain of the human condition.

Through stories both dramatic and humorous, through dance, and with some of the most extraordinary music of the 20th century, Blues in the Night will send you home with tickled funny bones, touched hearts, and unbridled joy during a very blue time.”

"I am thrilled that Ebony Repertory Theatre will be singing the Blues later this year,” said Blues in the Night creator,

Sheldon Epps. “I have complete faith and confidence in my dear friend and colleague Wren who has put together a superlative cast and creative team.

This show is very dear to me, and I am happy to have it back in my hometown once again. I know that these wonderful performers will deliver this classic material with heart, passion, good humor and theatrical pizzazz that will rock the house at every performance."

Brown and Epps have collaborated on productions including the awardwinning musical Crowns starring the late Paula Kelly and Clinton Derricks-Carroll at ERT’s Nate Holden Performing Arts Center and the Pasadena Playhouse in 2009.

In addition to Brown, Young and McDaniel, the creative team for BLUES IN THE NIGHT includes scenic designer Edward E. Haynes, costume designer Kim DeShazo, lighting designer Donna Ruzika, sound designer John Feinstein, prop master Patty Briles, hair and wig designer Anthony Gagliardi, casting is

by Michael Donovan, CSA and Richard Ferris, CSA, and production stage manager Michele Miner.

BLUES IN THE NIGHT, conceived by Sheldon Epps, had its world premiere Off-Broadway in 1980 at Playhouse 46, and was originally staged by Epps and Gregory Hines. In 1982, the production had its Broadway run at the Rialto Theatre and was directed by Epps and starred Leslie Uggams. The production received a Tony Award nomination for Best Musical. In 1987, BLUES IN THE NIGHT opened on the West End at the Donmar, where it received two Olivier Award nominations for Best New Musical and Best Actress in a musical.

BLUES IN THE NIGHT plays November 12 – December 5, 2021, with the official press opening on Saturday, November 13 at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center, 4718 West Washington Boulevard in Los Angeles. One preview performance is scheduled for Friday, November 12 at 8:00 pm. All preview tickets are $25.00.

The regular performance schedule is Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm; and Sunday at 3:00 pm. Regular tickets range from $40.00 - $50.00 and are available online at ebonyrep.org or by phone at 323-964-9766. Groups of 15 or more are available via email at groups@ebonyrep. org or 323-964-9766.

CAST AND CREATIVE BIOGRAPHIES VIVIAN REED (The Lady from the Road) Awards include two Tony Award Nominations, Drama Desk, Mabel Mercer, NAACP, Dance Educators of America, Outer Critics Circle and Audelco Pioneer Award. She has created four one-woman shows and performed in major theaters and clubs around the world. She taught voice and performance at Berklee College of Music and is presently on the voice faculty at Marymount Manhattan College in the theater department. www.vivianreed.com CLINTON DERRICKS-CARROLL (The Man in the Saloon).

Broadway: I Have a Dream, Your Arms Too Short to Box with God, Dreamgirls, and But Never Jam Today. TV: Sanford, Highway to Heaven, The Steve Harvey Show, Sliders, Any Day Now, Hill Street Blues, and Wally Brown. Film: The Ambush Murders, Introducing Dorothy Dandridge, and The Sky is Gray. West End: Five Guys Named Moe, Time, Miss Saigon, and Grand Hotel. Trained with Michael Shurtleff, David LeGrant, and Joan Darling. Author of Buy Golly!: A History of Black Collectables.

KAROLE FOREMAN (The Woman of the World) is thrilled to return to the Ebony Rep after her last appearance as Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill. She won an Ovation Award for her performance as the legendary singer. karoleforeman.com JENNA GILLESPIE BYRD (The Girl with a Date) is honored to join the Blues cast again! An Oxnard, CA native, she graduated with a B.A. in Drama from UC Irvine.

CW Winner of 2020 Christmas Caroler Challenge (Singer) Spiritualized The Band (Colbert Show), BAZ: Tour de Force (Vegas), Ovation Nominated:Recorded in Hollywood (Kirk Douglas Theater), Disney’s Frozen Live & Five and Dime, Title Of Show (Assistant Music Director). Music Composer of Debbie Gibson Int. Tour (Keys/Voc.), Original Web-Series Crazy with a K(Composer), The Sugarplums Spotify Album (Arranger).

Jenna is also a singer-songwriter! Follow her Instagram @jbyrd_radio for more!

WREN T. BROWN (Director). This fourth generation Angeleno, is an Actor, Producer and Director. Wren is the Founder and Producing Artistic Director of the awardwinning, Ebony Repertory Theatre, Los Angeles’ first and only African American professional theatre company.

KEITH YOUNG (Choreographer). For Ebony Repertory Theatre, Keith Young directed and choreographed the Ovation Awardwinning musical Five Guys Named Moe. As a choreographer for ERT, his credits include the critically acclaimed productions of The Gospel at Colonus, Phillip Hayes Dean’s Robeson, and Crowns. Film credits include Gone with The Bullets, Rent, The Smurfs Movie, It’s Complicated, The Holiday, Something’s Gotta Give, What Women Want, Dark Streets, Rat Race, Affair of The Necklace and Parent Trap.

WILLIAM FOSTER McDANIEL (Musical Director, Conductor, Pianist) earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Capital University (Columbus, Ohio) and Master of Music degree from Boston University. He has studied as a Fulbright Scholar in Paris, France. His works have been performed by the Yonkers Civic Philharmonic Orchestra, the New Symphony of New York, the Brooklyn Philharmonic, the Philharmonia of Greensboro, the Bergen Philharmonic, the United States Army Band Brass Quintet, the Antara Ensemble, the Savannah Symphony Orchestra, the Mozart Society Orchestra at Harvard University and the BBC Concert Orchestra in London.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 19

BEAUTY, BRAINS & BEYOND Introducing

Lily Buckman M I S S

T

he age-old battle of beauty vs. brains has been a longstanding battle throughout history.

Recently, we met a woman who has both and wears them proudly. Lily Buckman, the 21-year-old college student & model embodies what any parent would want as a role model for their child.

Although she is now living in South Carolina, Lily was born in Maryland, and has always had big dreams, goals and ambitions. She tells us “I think that everyone is uniquely beautiful in their own way”, and it’s clear to see that her humble, and kind personality has shined through to help her shoot for the moon, and land amongst the stars.

We asked Lily when her passion for modeling began, and she told us, “It has always been a dream of mine to be a model and pageant queen. I began modeling when I was 18, and I was Miss Chesapeake Bay Teen at Miss Maryland USA and I also won best interview. After that I began modeling for local boutiques and I had my first fashion show in DC

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N A T I O N

fashion week where I modeled for the director/owner of DC Fashion Week and Corjor International. I was also blessed with the opportunity to model with my mother, Julie Buckman who is Mrs. South Carolina US Nation, Mrs. Nation First Runner Up, and Miss Bikini Chesapeake Fitness, where we wore amazing designs of Roots by Bella. After that I was excited to win my first pageant for which I still hold the title of, Miss Bikini Chesapeake Model, and I will compete in Miss Bikini US as part of Miami Swim Week.”

Lily describes her fashion style as classic and elegant, with a touch of bohemian and goth. Her oneof-a-kind look has taken her to unimaginable places, and we wanted to know a little more about her achievements, and Lily told us “I won and am currently Miss Maryland US Nation. Then I went on to win and still hold the national title of Miss Ambassador US Nation. I also competed against other titleholders from around the world last year in Miami and won and still hold the international title of Miss Nation,

which is through Miss US Nation and Miss Nation Universe pageant organization.”

She goes on to let us know, “I modeled in Miami Fashion week for various designers such as Bella Fashion Designs, Bindi Fashion Designs, Liz Couture Boutique and Rose Paulino. Since winning my titles I have been blessed with many exciting opportunities, and I was able to participate in multiple Christmas parades in beautiful Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It was an honor as Miss Nation to be in Pawleys Island, South Carolina Independence Day parade. I was also given the opportunity to be a judge for Miss Columbia Nation Universe pageant.

I am blessed to have been honored in over 540 publications online on websites such as Fox, CBS and Market Watch.”

Some of Lily’s other achievements include being featured on the banner and website of Miss US Nation pageant, and to be represented

by XLNT Worldwide Model Management as well as Hannah

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Noelle Models, and she is a brand ambassador for The Wolfe London.

In Lily’s eyes, an important part of being a title holder is making a difference in the community and world around us. She feels honored to have worked with World Vision, and joined the Global 6k for water, which is a organization that helps to raise money and awareness for clean water across the world. She is also playing a role in raising awareness for Brookgreen Gardens and their upcoming exhibit to help rescue the endangered species of red wolves.

Lily has also helped raised awareness for the World Wildlife Fund for the endangered species of the giant panda and grey wolves, as well as donating blood to the American Red Cross, donating food and clothes to those in need, working with veterans and raising awareness for those with Alzheimer’s.

When we asked if she was passionate about any other charity organizations, Lily bravely tells us, “Cancer has affected my family and so it is a personal cause for me to be an advocate for the fight against cancer.

I am honored to have volunteered for and raised money and awareness for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. I also have raised awareness as an advocate for World Vision, human trafficking, and racial equality”.

She goes on to say, “As a pageant queen, I also am an advocate for women’s empowerment. I also have several volunteer opportunities coming up soon with the American Red Cross, and I am in the process of organizing a food and clothing drive, as well as several other volunteer opportunities.”

Most recently, Lily was honored to coach contestants, help host and crown contestants at the Miss California US Nation pageant in San Diego, California. She tells us “I had a great time modeling for the beautiful designs of Bella Fashion Designs, Bindi Fashion Designs, and DAW Fashion Design Inc. in 22 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

San Diego Fashion Week. Up next I will be continuing my journey as Miss Maryland US Nation, Miss Ambassador US Nation and Miss Nation. I am also very focused and passionate about expanding my modeling career and look forward to competing in Miss Bikini US next summer as Miss Bikini Chesapeake Model”.

Lily dreams of becoming a doctor, while expanding her modeling career, and it seems that nothing can stop her on her journey to the top. She has already reached so many of her goals,

and her accomplishments seem endless. When we asked her what she was most proud of, she said “My biggest accomplishment is winning Miss Maryland US Nation, Miss Ambassador US Nation, Miss Nation and Miss Bikini Chesapeake Model.

I am also extremely proud of getting full scholarships into 8 colleges. I received various awards throughout high school that brought me great pride, for my accomplishments on my swim team as well as academic achievement awards due to having a 4.0 GPA.”

and tennis, and I was on swim team for many years, and I have now been able to get onto my college swim team. Throughout high school I learned Taekwondo, and most recently I have earned my brown belt and I am now working towards earning my black belt. I also play the piano and I am learning to speak French and play the guitar.” And she leaves us wondering, is there anything she cannot do?

Lily lets us know she is passionate about not giving up on her dreams and hope the same for aspiring young men and women. She states “My advice to someone just getting into modeling is to try different things and be confident. There are all different kinds of modeling and so many opportunities in the industry.”

She tells us she is inspired by God and her family who motivate her to live her best life each and every day.

It appears this incredible woman is too good to be true, she goes on to let us know that she enjoys hobbies outside of school and work, just as we all do. She says, “I enjoy spending time with my family and pets. I also love traveling, photography, running, swimming, kayaking, skiing and anything adventurous and outdoors!

I have been blessed to travel many places in my lifetime like New York City, Cape Cod, Philadelphia PA, Washington DC, Williamsburg VA, Outer Banks NC, Myrtle Beach SC, which is where I currently call home.

Charleston SC, Jacksonville FL,

Amelia Island FL, Coco Beach FL, Orlando FL, Miami FL, The Florida Keys, San Diego CA, Canada, Bermuda, Atlantis Bahamas, Freeport Bahamas, Coco Cay Bahamas, Rome Italy, The Vatican, Switzerland, and Paris, France.”

She continues to tell us, “I love music and movies, especially rock music and horror movies. I have also played many sports in my life.

I began dancing at a young age and danced for 10 years, mostly ballet, even at Strathmore Hall in Washington DC. I also played soccer

When we asked the accomplished student and professional model how she was able to take what she loved and make a career with it, she tells us, “I turned my passion into a career by hard work. When I first got into the industry, I like anyone else in the world have certain goals in life I want to reach in modeling and in life. As Walt Disney once said, ‘if you can dream it, you can do it’. And that is exactly true, ‘you can do anything you put your mind to’, as said by Eminem. Obstacles in my life that have tried to block me did not win as they only made me stronger and more determined to succeed. I am blessed with all that has entailed thus far with winning these four pageants this past year and I’m excited to see what this next chapter in the journey of life holds for me.”

We join Lily in her excitement for what the next chapter for her holds and look forward to watching her conquer and thrive in whatever she may choose to take on in the future.

If you’d like to reach Lily, you can find her on @missnation2020

@lilyfaith550

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 23

Lily

Buckman 24 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

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MOTION PICTURE COMPANY THE DIRT MERCHANTS FILM SERIES

AN OUTSTANDING movie making team is creating an entirely new genre that’s fresh, fun and unique. Just imagine “The Breakfast Club” meets “The Sopranos” meets motivational expert Tony Robbins” and you’ll have the general idea.

Each film stands alone, with its own characters, actors, stories, and distinct artistic style. Some characters return to later movies and scenes may overlap from time to time, but each film has its own beginning, middle and end, and they can be watched in any order. Each one has been crafted to be exciting and entertaining for both teens and adults, while conveying relatable experiences and teaching real life lessons.

Driving scene in Destinova with “Tommy”, Leo Winters and “Spencer”, Rey Laredo

UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS OF DIRT MERCHANTS FILMS • • • • •

A series of 10 movies 1980s settings Fashion, cars and sets are vintage Multiple true stories woven together No fantasy, no time travel, no super heroes, aliens or zombies • Inspirational heroes, nasty villains and a diverse cast of characters • Musically driven films

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WRITER/DIRECTOR HENNING MORALES

Dirt Merchants films are based on writings and teachings of Henning Morales, a premiere motivational speaker and thought leader, who has delivered keynote speeches to over a million people on four continents. His best-selling book, The Dirt Merchants, provides the foundation for most of these films.

Writer/Director Henning Morales and Photography Director Anita Razzano His passion for providing motivation, guidance, coaching and mentorship to young people to enable them to lead happy, productive lives has become his life’s purpose. His inspiration stems from his personal experiences, having been a confused seventeen-year-old troublemaker who met some high-powered motivational masters, opening him up to age old principles of success and happiness.

Although he is involved in multiple projects including books, public speaking, events and films, they all have one central theme; the direct coaching of ‘kids’ and the coaches, parents, aunts, uncles, teachers and other kids who influence them. He defines kids as young people (just getting out of school), or people of any age who are young at heart.

Henning is finishing his tenth film, the third part of the Hitter Twist trilogy, and is embarking on international film festival run featuring a number of his feature-length and short films including Xentastic, Street Chase, An Hero and Hitter Twist.

Filming of Street Chase on the gritty streets of South Los Angeles with Steve Martinez Director of Photography and Writer/Director Henning Morales.

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THE AUDIENCE

The personal development space consists of more than 100 million people. Our films have tremendous appeal to teens and young adults, as well as parents, teachers, counselors, mentors and others who interact with them. There are also countless movie-lovers who just enjoy good movies in general.

AN EPIC TEN COLUMN FEATURE FILM SERIES

The Dirt Merchants Film Series is comprised of ten feature several short films, or ‘episodes’ that are designed to tell their own story and entice fans to watch the feature films.

Music Director Drew Lane

FOURTEEN PLATINUM MUSIC PRODUCER: DREW LANE, MUSIC DIRECTOR

Pop and R&B songwriter and record producer, Drew won a 2006 Billboard Award for his work on Disney’s High School Musical soundtrack, which received the Billboard Soundtrack Album of The Year award. The album was also nominated for the Billboard Album of the Year Award, and spawned two Billboard #1s. Drew has received gold and 14 platinumaccreditations for his work with artists Speech, Keith Sweat, Mary J. Blige and Alsou. He also worked on the platinumaccredited records High School Musical, Hannah Montana, Disneymania 4, and Manny Fresh. Drew has 11 songs featured in the film Bring It On (Fight to the Finish). Drew’s client list has sold over 40 million records worldwide – and still counting.

THE MISSION

Is to create a positive shift in the collective consciousness through highly entertaining visual media story telling.

The cast and crew of An Hero filming up the hills overlooking Los Angeles.

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Entrepreneur, Philanthropist and Spiritual Mentor

SANDRA Scarlette SANDRA’S 6000 MILE STORY Born in Paris, Sandra was raised in Tunisia, attending some of the most prestigious schools on the continent of Africa. Following in her family’s educational legacy, she obtained her Bachelor degree in economics and finance, with an emphasis on international trade, from l’ Ecole Superieure de Commerce in Tunis.

At 22, sensing certain limits to her achieving her goals and full potential, she made the difficult decision to leave Tunisia to pursue an elite entrepreneurship program at UCLA. This was the genesis of her business career and helped shape her vision for the future. Armed with a world-class education, a strong work ethic and a positive attitude, Sandra has made a lasting impact on the fashion and jewelry industries, working with some of Hollywood’s most high-profile celebrities.

More recently she has made her entry into the residential real estate industry.

CORE VALUES, INTENSE PASSIONS, IMPORTANT COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Sandra is extremely close to her family, takes pride in her ‘ambassadorship’ for Tunisia, and is passionate about numerous local Los Angeles nonprofit organizations.

Regarding spirituality, she has an esoteric approach and, having studied religions of the world, she makes it a practice of harnessing universal spiritual energies to preserve youth and beauty. Sandra teaches the importance of maintaining a balance of masculine and feminine energies to a select boutique clientele.

personal, cultural and business challenges, Sandra is the embodiment of a modern independent woman. As a result of these experiences, she desires to empower women to self-express, be acknowledged and guide them towards becoming independent and self-reliant.

In many parts of the world, women are still considered second class citizens.

Sandra’s core mission is developing positive self-esteem in all women, and spread empowerment, especially in places where such opportunity and light has not been shed.

In the United States, as in many Western societies, female leaders in society and business are commonplace, however at the same time inequalities still exist. Sandra is committed to continuing to bridge the gap and promote equality for women with their male counterparts and colleagues.

Sandra’s long-term goals are to expand her business interests as an ambassador for select life-changing brands on various global platforms, bridging the gap between continents, connecting leaders, imparting transformational stories through keynote speaking and visual media, and continuing to promote empowerment, leadership and hope as a path to achieving one’s dreams.

In the process, Sandra will develop her own legacy within her personal, business and philanthropic life that incorporates a value system of justice, peace, success, happiness and pride where all voices are heard.

MORE THAN JUST A PAGEANT GIRL Representing Tunisia in the Miss Europe Global competition has already been a valuable platform for furthering Sandra’s worthy goals. She looks forward to the big event on November 20th, 2021 at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center in Redondo Beach, California.

Although she will embrace any outcome, winning the crown will not only give Sandra the opportunity to advance her goals, it will also provide her with a truly global stage, enabling her to expand her reach and implement her earnest mission.

PRETTY GRITTY FILM PRODUCTION Sandra has teamed up with Dirt Merchants Films to help develop and produce several movies featuring themes of inspiration motivation and transformation, In one of these films, Sandra will be playing the role of a pure hearted motivational speaker with a ‘classified’ past.

LOOKING DOWN THE ROAD: A LONG TERM MISSION Leaving her family and home country of Tunisia as a young woman, overcoming HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 31

Director of Dreams:

Calvin 'Cylk' Cozart His newest directing venture ‘Inheriting The Land - Jim Crowe Meets Miss Maggie’s Will’, is a documentary based on the book written by Gene Stowe

W

e all strive to reach our full potential. To maximize ourselves on a personal, professional, and human level. These days. the American dream seems to be the ability to take what you love, turn it into a successful career, and in turn give back to the communities that lifted us up.

For some this may seem like an impossible feat, but award winning director, actor, producer, writer and basketball player Calvin ‘Cylk’ Cozart has managed to do just that. Cylk took what he loved, and used it to change the direction of his life. With this success, and his undeniable passion for life, he chooses to relay messages that inspire change, give back to communities all around the world, and be an advocate for those who need it most.

Coming from humble beginnings in the small town of Knoxville, TN, Cylk became a volunteer fire fighter at age 14, and played football and basketball in high school, where he was nothing less than a star.

Through basketball, a scholarship sent him to Montreal-Anderson College in North Carolina for his first year.

Shortly after, he was recruited by Coach Nida, and transferred to King University where he continued his love for the game of basketball, and with that continued his legacy.

After his early success, Cylk’s talent took him on an adventure playing for the National Basketball Association Entertainment League, for the Utah Jazz.

During this time, an injury would occur that would change Cylk’s journey. He went through months of rehabilitation, and ultimately realized the injury was

32 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

not healing properly. At that point, a player that won the Larry Smith Award, was inducted into the Small College Basketball Hall of Fame & was a 3 time 3 point shooting champion for the NBA entertainment league became a professional model.

Cylk, who’s nick name means ‘Running Water’ in Cherokee, comes from a Cherokee mother, and a black father.

With his edgy looks, and undeniable charm, it seemed to be a perfect fit.

As we could have guessed, this venture also became a successful career for the ever talented young man, and he would go on to be seen in GQ, Sports Illustrated and major billboards all over America.

He has ultimately continued his growth, and has become the founder of Cylk Enterprises, which encompasses multiple successful, and charitable endeavors he has created throughout the years.

Cylk has acted in over 20 TV shows, such as, Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Saved

By The Bell and Walker, Texas Ranger.

As well as over 40 films, most famously known for his role as Robert in ‘White Men Can’t Jump’, with his combined

films grossing over $1 billion.

Incredibly, this year on his birthday, February 1st, respected congress member Tim Burchett had the American flag flown over the United States Capitol in Cylk’s honor. Tim Burchett is the former mayor of Knox County, TN, and the current U.S representative for Tennessee’s 2nd congressional district, based in Knoxville.

He requested the flag be flown in honor of Cylk’s birthday to recognize his impact professionally, as well as how much he has given back to the community as a whole. To Cylk, this was such an incredible and unbelievable honor.

Additionally, this year, Cylk was the recipient of the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award directly from President Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 33

With all of his success, Cylk remains humble, friendly, energized & focused.

Amongst his greatest achievements is his annual scholarship at King University, named after his mother, Betty Ruth Cozart. As well as his major involvement with many charities such as The Boys & Girls Club of America, the National Turrets Association, and the National Lupus Association, to name a few.

With a passion for educating our youth, he also teaches acting in hopes to help uplift young, aspiring men & women that may not think they were capable of living out their dreams. His spark seems to rub off on everyone he encounters, and he is happy to share his magnetic personality with any of his students that are lucky enough to be able to learn from him.

With a list of accomplishments that seems endless, Cylk is also the cofounder of Cures4Humanity, a cause on a mission to provide renewable energy, sustainable housing, clean water and nutritious food, ultimately with the hope to end world hunger. Through his humanitarian efforts, this educational philanthropist received the Urban League’s lifetime achievement award in 2012, which was presented to him by Martin Luther King III. Needless to say, this spirited man has molded his life into one that many of us can be inspired by.

Cylk has decided to change direction once again and explore his talents in 34 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

directing. With his first film, ‘Ball of Confusion’ gaining a lot of attention, and holding two sold out shows at the Regal Theatre in his home town, only one day after the Corona Virus hit, it seems he has found another avenue to express himself in a way that can enlighten all those around him.

Being the first film he directed, ‘Ball of Confusion’, which got it’s name because according to Cylk, “The world is a ball of confusion”, is a documentary that takes us on a journey through the history of basketball, and showcases it’s global impact.Working with Keith Zimmerman, Cylk provides viewers with a version of the game basketball like no one has ever seen before. Starting at the beginning of the game, and weaving in and out of the culture all the way up to present day.

Cylk states “Basketball is a parody of life. You learn how to play basketball, you learn how to socialize with people.

You learn that people have different perspectives that might not be like yours, and you might even learn about business. I’m in love with basketball and what it did for me”.

The film will be shown at the Music City Bowl in Nashville, TN, a major ESPN bowl week which is a 4-day celebration, and the screening will be paired with his beer ‘Country Roads Beer’ & his line of Cylk Tennessee Belnded Whiskey, which Cylk is extremely proud of. This pairing will be the first diversity owned brand to be a part of the sponsorship package With his humble spirit, Cylk clearly shows joy, love and compassion through his products, he tells us “I look for sparks in everyone, I search for like energies. I look for passion and kindness in people”.

The energy he possesses is nothing less than contagious, and he continues to spread his generous heart, and kind soul, with the help of his Keeping Dreams Alive Foundation. A foundation which goes into underprivileged communities, and helps provide scholarships for struggling youth from all ages, races and backgrounds.

The only cost to anyone assisted by the Keeping Dreams Alive Foundation is to go back to the community they came from, and help someone else achieve their goals.

With his unwavering need to help people, Cylk’s advice to our youth is “Find something you are interested in, and study it. Ask questions, it’s something I wish I did more of. Learn the business while working on your craft”. His goal is always to spread the message of encouragement, uplift our youth and make them believe, as he does, that they are capable of accomplishing anything they want.

In true Cylk spirit, he spends part of his summer giving motivational speeches at an Annual Summer Basketball Camp

Find something you are interested in, and study it. Ask questions, it’s something I wish I did more of. Learn the business while working on your craft.

that is hosted by NBA Houston Rockets assistant coach, Elston Turner.

His newest directing venture, is a documentary based on the book written by Gene Stowe, ‘Inheriting The Land - Jim Crowe Meets Miss Maggie’s Will’. It is a story that parallels not only what we’re going through in America, but all around the world.

This documentary, unlike one we have ever seen, dives into the lives of Maggie and Sally Ross, who lived in the late 1800’s in Marvin, North Carolina during the Jim Crowe era.

The Ross sisters owned 800 acres of land, and were said to be the wealthiest family in Union County. Upon their death, they willed their land to the people they considered to be their family, and happened to be African American. In a place where it was unheard of for black and white people to associate with one another, these sisters did the unthinkable. Yet to Maggie and Sally Ross, it was simply the right thing to do. The Ross sisters lived a life with acceptance that was unusual for the 1800’s, and reporters claimed to never have seen anything like it.

Their decision would go on to be argued in court, with a court date set for the Spring of 1921. At that time, what should have been a simple task of jury selection took many hours, spilling into the night and ultimately keeping the court in session until after midnight. The selection took so long because the jury members selected had to be okay with white people willing their land to black people, and this was just the first of many hiccups along the bumpy road that was ahead.

Many people in the state were outraged, and in shock.

They would go on to argue that the Ross sisters were taken advantage of.

Yet, there was a faith of the people in court, and many wanted to see the decision of the Ross sisters request be upheld, which may be just as shocking, considering that time in history. For the Ross sisters, it was the way they chose to live, and is a way of life that would prove to be far ahead of it’s time, all starting with sisters that chose to live in love rather than in fear.

Cylk stated “Lord knows we need this type of a story, now.”, and we couldn’t agree more. With this film, Cylk hopes to open our eyes, he tells us “I want to create a dialogue. I want to show the reality that if people can be treated as equals back in that era, why can’t we do it now? You can’t just say it,

you need to show it, and with the idea that you can’t unlearn something, my hope is to show that you can’t just say you love everybody, you have to show it”.

Unbelievably, all the characters in the reenactments of the film will be having their debut as first time actors, as they are all descendants of the real people being portrayed, some of who still live on the very property Maggie & Sally Ross once owned.

With directing being his newly found passion, and focus in life, Cylk hopes to one day take this educational documentary and use it as a platform to create a series that documents incredible moments throughout history that should have been taught in school, but somehow ended up brushed under the rug, much like the story of the Ross Sisters.

Cylk tells us that he “appreciates the journey” that has taken him to where he is now, and hopes to spread the message of equality. In the future, he would love to teach a class, or even have a school that teaches the business side of show business.

Teaching all the ins and outs of the many positions that need to be filled within the entertainment industry, such as production crew, costume designers and hair stylists.

He has a passion for spreading encouragement and allowing his success to translate into the ability to teach and uplift men and women from all walks of life.

In a film where “truth transcends color”, it’s our honor to be featuring the Hollywood premier of his new film, ‘Inherit The Land’ at our Hollywood Weekly Film Festival on November 6th at the Rawley Theatre.

Although his life is one to look up to, Cylk let’s us know that there is much more to be done, and we believe he is just getting started. If there’s one thing we can learn from this multi-talented entrepreneur it’s that with love, and acceptance, anything is possible and with endless perseverance, we can all reach our full potential, and help our communities do the same.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 35

FASHION / LIFESTYLE

Q&A with

VALENTINA GUROVA Valentina Gurova is the head of the PRAliyans agency. She has been working in PR since 1999, when this field was only starting to find its footing in Russia, with politics being the most popular area of activity for PR specialists. In the early 2000s, Valentina decided to start her own agency, changing her course a little: her field of interest included social activism, charity, culture, art, and, of course, show business. This is how PR-Aliyans came to be in 2002. Today, the team of PR-Aliyans develops PR programmes for individuals and organisations, including large industrial and investment companies.

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Valentina, you were at the forefront of PR in Russia back when the profession of a PR agent seemed to be something mysterious. How did you get started in this field?

When I first started, almost no one knew what the job of a PR agent was, there were only 15 agencies in Russia. Back when I was still a university student, I visited an exhibition featuring books on advertising and PR, lectures and, of course, professionals who were willing to share their experience: and right at the exhibition I applied for an internship at one of those

agencies. The new job took over my life to the point that I was practically drowning in it: during the day I was torn between lectures at the university and trips to the office; at night, I studied copywriting and read anything I could find on PR in Russia. I was fortunate enough to almost immediately become part of the team of a major political project: the gubernatorial elections. I had to work around the clock in order to find time for everything, but since this was my calling, I forgot about sleep. I still look back at those times with fondness!

Today, PR no longer seems as incomprehensible, but still, what trivial or funny questions do you get asked about your work by the 'uninitiated', people who are not related to this field?

Most of the strange and provocative questions I get asked concern not myself or my work, but rather my clients, especially TV stars and stars of show business: what they are like in real life, the latest gossip, scandals... But a good PR agent should have the nobility of an English gentleman – to be silent about juicy details and reveal only what the clients themselves would be ready to make public. And since the boundaries of taboo topics are different for everyone, you need to be a sensitive psychologist in order to understand what exactly the client is ready to reveal to the general public. Sometimes scandalous topics can be a great PR move, even if they do not do credit to the client: public scandals, explicit photos, candid confessions and divorce proceedings. Just imagine the willpower you need to possess in order to impartially work with all this!

Have you ever had to work for someone you disliked? Is it even possible?

It's just easier to make others fall in love with someone whom you personally find appealing. But, just like in any other business, you get all sorts of jobs — some easy, some difficult. In most cases, I try to connect with the client and build

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a trusting relationship for many years of fruitful cooperation. If there happens to be a sudden creative disconnect between us, we sit down at the negotiating table and discuss the work process. Sometimes clients themselves do not know what they want from their PR team or do not trust us as specialists: in cases like these we simply part our ways. Time is the most valuable resource, you can't spend it on someone who does not understand this.

Could you name your most memorable project? Perhaps the most difficult or your favourite one?

Our agency is actively engaged in the field of fashion, I am especially proud of our cooperation with such giants as Harper's Bazaar, Elle, Marie Claire and Vogue. Over the past 12 years, we have significantly expanded our areas of activity and now we not only cooperate with the European media, but also work closely with such countries as the USA, China, Vietnam, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

At the same time, each client and each publication is a real challenge and joy. But perhaps the most memorable project was and still is the international beauty contest Miss Earth, where our client, despite her modest achievements, managed to impress everyone with her emotional speech about Russia written under the guidance of our copywriter. Just imagine, a contestant who didn't even get into the top 10 finalists, was followed day and night by dozens of reporters wishing to interview her. The girl was predicted to have a successful political career in her home country, but she saw

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her calling in social and charitable projects, so she did not take this opportunity. Well, there are different ways to influence the fate of your country, but for our part, we have done everything to make the name of our client known throughout the world.

How do you feel about selfpromotion through social media: for example, via Instagram?

Not only does self-promotion through social media and YouTube have the right to exist, but it is the future of PR. Of course, as long as it is not organised in a frantic way with the sole goal of quickly making money on any hype. The print media is getting replaced by online publications, and during the pandemic, all aspects of our lives have moved to the Internet: communication, healthcare, shopping, work, studying, training. Naturally, content should be original and, generally, there is entire team of professionals behind it: from the writer to the creative producer. We help to fill channels and blogs with high-quality material and do it quickly and efficiently, with knowledge and experience. Where others need inspiration, we just work.

Over more than 20 years of working in PR, you are probably already familiar with all the distinguished directors, photographers, stylists, makeup artists and you prefer to work with them. What does, for example, a young photographer need to do for you to notice them and invite them for a shoot?

Would it be a risk to you?

We are always in search of young talents with fresh views and ideas: photographers,

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stylists, make-up artists and decorators submit their work to us all the time. I keep an eye on the work of my colleagues in the top glossy magazines and enjoy discovering new names for myself. You don't need much to be able to collaborate with our agency: talent, initiative, readiness to work with irregular scheduling and high stress resistance – sometimes it happens that we need to organise a high-quality shooting in just a couple of days or need to film everything in a single take between the client's tours with no room for mistakes, so as not to make the client miss their flight. Shooting on the street at night and in bad weather is not unusual for us. And, of course, the clients themselves are not always in a good mood: they can be tired, moody, indecisive – you need to be able to deal with all this and keep working. So, we invite many, but only the best stay!

What are the three top qualities without which you would not have been able to become a successful PR agent?

I try to be the best at everything, I always keep learning and never look down on beginners. More specifically, these qualities are perfectionism, thirst for knowledge and the lack of a superiority complex.

What is the most inspiring part of your job?

The most inspiring part of my job, just like of any other, is to see happiness in my clients' eyes and to hear their appreciative 'thank you'. Needless to say, such emotions act as a very powerful fuel in our difficult but exciting profession!

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HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY • 37

I Am That Girl Genre Documentary: I Am That Girl Written by Lisa Bagby, Co-writer Stacy Newton “Her eyes blackened with unfathomable pain as her tears bled unstoppable onto her notebook. She felt so empty, numb to the surroundings around her. She found herself falling into a deep state of grayness. She would walk but not feel the ground beneath her feet. She would hear voices that were talking but couldn’t understand what they were saying. They had made her feel like nothing. Her world went dark. She would be forever changed.

She planted flowers to mark the grave of her loss love. Had she only known he had a gun she would of taken the bullet. A love that she soon would come to find out was all a lie. It was only after the fact that she came to realize his illegal activities and bad intentions for her. But she still didn’t hate him. She found compassion and forgiveness in her struggle. It was the others that she would never forgive.

A mystery still unfolding. A mountain, a body, a bear, a black duffle bag, a psychic reading, a ghost box, a dishonest detective, the big pay off, bad journalism, fake news, and a question “who removed the dirt from his grave?” She becomes a force to be reckoned with as she tells her story. I know this story well for “I Am That Girl” I am not nothing!! I’m proud of who I am today! I’ve been working on this book. My story!! A story of injustice! Ive been unable to finish because I didn’t have the perfect ending. The last chapter! But now I do. My story is about warrior mindset, resilience, perseverance, faith, strength, love and kindness. A big thanks to everyone who has a part in my journey, good or bad. I love you all!️ I wouldn’t be the person I am today had it not been for all of you! Copyright 2020 38 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

Lisa Bagby

Genre Drama: A Horse Called Wildfire Written by Lisa Bagby, Co-writer Stacy Newton Katie is a country girl that can hit like a man, love like an Angel and can ride Horse painting by Dr. Beverly Holloway-Rivera like the wind. Her best friend a double barrel shotgun! The love of her life a black Stallion.

Daniel is a city boy who just landed his dream job with the Forest Service who has released their “Draft Plan” to remove a herd of wild horses. Danny travels to Heber wild horse territory in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest to evaluate the situation. He thinks this is going to be a piece of cake until he meets Katy played by Nicole Vegas. A force to be reckoned with.

Katy can’t stand the sight of him and the sound her voice makes his blood boil!

They eventually find mutual ground and collaborate on a new plan to save these horses from slaughter. To Keep them Wild, free and roaming! My team is going to make history in more than 1 way, let’s go girls, we will be their voice Genre Western: Murderers Creek Written by Lisa Bagby, Co-writer Stacy Newton Against all odds they are definitely a force to be reckoned with. Battling against racism, bigotry, bullying, harassment and chauvinism they are here to tell you how the west was really won.

LISA BAGBY is a national certified EMT who likes to escape from the human drama by finding herself in nature where the real wild things are. After a particularly dramatic series of events in her life, including the death of her husband, a lawsuit, and the death of a man who committed suicide on her property, Lisa turned to writing.

When she’s not absorbed in her work, Lisa enjoys hiking, animals, horseback riding, camping and cooking outdoors over an open fire.

With the skills of a survivalist, she knows she can make it in the wilds and elsewhere.

Lisa also knows that you have to stand up to bullies and liars and not let them ruin you. At the same time, she knows that kindness is strength. “No one should sit alone” is her new motto. Part of her book proceeds will be donated to Suicide Awareness.

Lisa is the creator of Live It Wild Productions. Making history with 12 Women, 12 Stories & 1 Dream!!

She is also selling Live It Wild Production shirts available at PayPal Liveitwild1@

exceeding

EXPECTATIONS “Jennifer was extremely pleasant, patient and generous with her time in showing us many properties in Laguna Beach before we decided. She had excellent knowledge of the marketplace, what we were looking for, and kept us well informed throughout the process. She was there every step of the way until we closed, and has even been available to us post purchase to look after the house as it is our second home. And always with a smile. I would recommend Jennifer to anyone looking to purchase a home in the area.”

Read more client experiences at jenniferhalbert.com ‘

JENNIFER HALBERT REALTOR®

949.899.2113 jenniferhalbert@bhhscal.com jenniferhalbert.com DRE# 01992762

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