MONTHLY April 2019
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HEROES TO ANGELENOS LOS ANGELES RAMS
Icon HOLLYWOODHollywood INTERNATIONAL James YOUTH FILM FESTIVAL
ALLURING IngramARTIST ALLOIS BEGUILES
CJ COMU
HOLLYWOOD ICON JAMES INGRAM
Inside the Heart of an Entrepreneurial CEO
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome readers to our April issue of Hollywood Monthly magazine. Our Cover Star and story is CJ Comu. It’s hard to fully take in the life of this man in one sitting. Born in Istanbul, CJ Comu has lived in London, Vancouver and Dallas. His entrepreneurial businesses have been rooted in all three cities, and then spread (not slowly) around the world. His eclectic business career has ranged from converting algae into biofuel, promoting MMA fights, taking Humitech (a company dealing with mineral compositions) from “$0 to $4M within three years and over 100 franchise locations worldwide” -- a direct quote from his inspiring article -- and now EarthWater. CJ Comu’s life as an entrepreneur and interaction in the business world has been Shakespearean in revealing both lightness and darkness in the human spirit -- but he has never strayed from pursuing the light. Reading his story is like attending an entertaining business seminar. The operative word, of course, being entertaining. CJ Comu is a man who does live life to the fullest, but only if he can take all of us along with him. EarthWater is his way of keeping all of us healthy and happy on our journey through life. We hope you enjoy his amazing story. We lost someone recently who was very well known to the Grammy Foundation. They nominated him multiple times and bestowed him with two Grammys over his incredibly successful career. I’m talking about The Man with the Golden Voice. Mr. James Ingram. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We Honor him here in this issue. Thank you, as always, readers. Your support is everything to us. Wishing All Of You Happiness, Anthony Ewart, Associate Editor
MONTHLY April 2019
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HEROES TO ANGELENOS LOS ANGELES RAMS
Icon HOLLYWOODHollywood INTERNATIONAL
James YOUTH FILM FESTIVAL
ALLURING ARTTIST Ingram ALLOIS BEGUILES
CJ COMU
On The Cover CJ Comu Founder, Chairman and CEO of EarthWater
HOLLYWOOD ICON JAMES INGRAM
Inside the Heart of an Entrepreneurial CEO
CALL US AT (424) 371 9900
PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF Prather Jackson VICE PRESIDENT Bernice Harris Michael D. Coxson SENIOR BOOK CURATOR Jane Ubell-Meyer ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anthony Ewart DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICES & ASST TO THE PUBLISHER Fal Adams MARKETING & SALES Launy Rhem FEATURED WRITER ANTI AGING EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Adrienne Papp CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Maggie O’Brien Dr. James Kellenberger Victor Migalchan ART DIRECTOR Damian Aragon CHINA OPERATIONS Victor Migalchan victor@hollywoodweeklymagazine.com (213) 220-3052 (424) 371-9900 I.T. CONSULTANT Jacob Kovatch INDIA OPERATION Ike Sinha Country Director Art4Peace Awards Hollywood Weekly Magazine B1/1565 Vasantkunj New Delhi-110 070 Mobile +919599068592 ASIA OPERATION Joyce Penas Pilarsky HWM Asia Ambassador Email: info@joycepilarsky.com Bench Bello HWM Asia Operations hollywoodmagazineusa@gmail.com Mobile +639273895559 DISTRIBUTORS CoMag MADER NEWS NEWS INFLIGHT, INC
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Inside the Heart of an Entrepreneurial CEO
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Hollywood International Youth Film Festival
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Hollywood Spotlight Catch the latest episodes of your favorite TV Shows
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Nu Yang A Unique Journalist
Katrina Law Exclusive Interview
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Laurence & Chico Fall/Winter 2019 Runway Show
The Los Angeles Rams Heroes to Angelenos
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Allois Beguiles
LA Art Show
Jame Ingram
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The Man with the Golden Voice
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Meet CJ Comu Inside the Heart of an Entrepreneurial CEO
There are some in the world who travel an uncommon path on their journey to achieve their dreams. They forge a new path. They know what it takes to overcome challenges and build an empire against all odds. They never concentrate on what people say about their ideas, tune out all negativity and continue on the road to following their desires and to create the businesses they want to build. CJ Comu is one of these individuals who defines the word Entrepreneur. HW: You have such a unique and diverse background. Starting in childhood and growing up, can you tell us a little bit more about CJ Comu? I was born in Istanbul Turkey into a wonderful family with an older brother and sister. In 1970, the political and civil situation was reaching a volatile rate in Istanbul, so my Father made a life changing decision for all of us. He called a family meeting and said, “We’re moving to Vancouver, Canada.” As a 10-year old boy, this move introduced numerous personal and cultural challenges. The first was to learn English, as I was fluent in Turkish & French. The second was
Comu Family
My Philosophy is the impossible I do right away -Miracles take a little longer learning to deal with the adversity and opportunity of a new country, which my family had adopted and became citizens. My parents always told us, “you can be anything you want to be.” As a young man, I took those words to heart by chasing every dream I had and realized I loved the experience of “owning” my own businesses.
I shoveled snow in the winters, washed cars and mowed lawns in the summers. HW: Regretfully, you suffered a tremendous loss as a young adult. How did that impact you? I went to college to learn business and anticipated attending law school, which I believed would be my road to
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 5
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones
success. At the age of 20, after my first two years in college, I received a phone call that my father was in the hospital and rushed to be by his side. I watched helplessly as he passed away from stomach cancer at age 62. He had just retired and battled his cancer privately for years without anyone in the family knowing. My father was an amazing and honorable man who left a legacy in his country in order to give his children the best chance he could give them. His passing changed my life. I left college and decided to go to work and figure out my calling. HW: Tell us about your early professional life? I started as a precious metals and currency trader. However, before my career really took off, I was introduced to the software industry. It was 1980 and was just the beginning of an exciting era in technology growth. Apple had just gone public and we were one of the first financial software developers on the Apple platform who happened to be in the right place at the right time. I was very fortunate to meet amazing pioneers like Steve Jobs, Adam Osborne and Nolan Bushnell. My partner David was the “geek” who wrote the code and I was the 6 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
marketing guy who packaged and sold the finished product. We started a company in a 100 square foot office within a medical office building and called it “MBA Group” because David had just received his MBA. After two years, we made multiple products, had our own building and had almost 100 employees on the payroll. What a learning experience! I exited the company and within a few years caught the “entrepreneurial bug” which I’ve yet to find a cure to! HW: Taking what you learned, what did you do next? I wanted to learn how Wall Street worked. So, with that same drive and passion I dove right in, reading and learning everything I could about the stock market, investment banking, corporate finance, mergers, acquisitions, initial public offerings and what was involved in running a publicly traded company. I flew around North America meeting finance and software companies, which brought me to Dallas, Texas in 1990 as Chairman & CEO of the American Numismatic Exchange (ANEX), a new start up operating as a Computerized Financial Exchange for U.S minted rare gold and
silver coins, like the American Stock Exchange (AMEX). The venture proved to be too early and the industry was difficult to consolidate and integrate, so we put the company on the shelf to see if the future had a place for it. I fell in love with Dallas because of its dynamic business community, the people and even the 100+ degree summers. I decided to launch an advisory firm for the industry sector and formed a company called 20/20 Corporation. This company gave me the opportunity to learn and explore the inner workings of many companies from the oil & gas Industry, to manufacturing and real estate. In the mid 90’s, I met John Potter, the man who would become my mentor, business partner and dear friend. Regretfully he passed away in 2018. John was twenty years my senior and a true “man of a man.” He helped calm me and showed me alternate ways to do business. He used to say, “try cooking with a slow flame and not a flame thrower.” At the time, I was still in my thirties and had that 0-100 MPH mentality. I eventually learned to slow down, be more vigilant and diligent in life and in business. HW: You mentioned this experience led to a major venture and your first public company. What was this like for you? John and I formed a company called Airtech and entered the world of indoor air purification and sterilization.
We built some amazing products with great engineers who removed airborne particles and gases using revolutionary technology. Unfortunately, our ideas were illegally plagiarized by a major HVAC company and we did not have the financial strength to litigate. We launched an international franchise operation which helped expand my global business experience and expertise. John and I took the company public in the late 90’s, which led to the first of many titles for me such as Founder, Chairman, and CEO of a public company. The experience I gained running a public company, along with the financing efforts and the public relations to posture and position the company for growth, was a challenge few people get the opportunity to understand and fully appreciate. The emotional, physical, and financial pressures, along with the responsibility to the shareholders, employees and vendors is one (as the US Marines say) “for the proud and for the few.” HW: You went from Air to Dirt – tell us about this transformation? In 2001, I stepped down from my role at Airtech and launched Humitech, a new consumer product & franchise company as the Founder, Chairman and CEO. This was truly a start up with nothing but my passion to take a mineral composition from planet earth, with incredible properties (more on the irony later) and build it from $0 to $4M in revenue within three years and over 100 franchise locations worldwide. I loved building the company and educating others about how the natural powers of planet earth compounds could alter and improve the quality of cold storage products. It was a dynamic franchise concept, embraced and followed with great success in countries around the world. The company was doing
well financially, and I was preparing it for a public offering. While I had the support of most investors and franchisees, there was the “one” who seemed to have their own hidden agenda. During this time, I learned a hard lesson in “GREED & TRUST” when I agreed to a “Buy Out” which later turned out to be a huge mistake and lead me into a 10-year legal battle with the company I started. I learned an important lesson of how to legally protect myself and my business by seeking wise counsel, and not relying on the old school politeness of a handshake. This cost me dearly and yet Humitech franchises continue to exist and this remains a global part of my business legacy today. HW: Entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey. Who has been your support and foundation throughout your life? I’m very fortunate to have a loving and supportive family who has been there for me during my roller coaster rides in life. In 1997, I was very fortunate to have met an amazing woman, my wife Phyllis who helped stabilize me during the high seas and rejoices with me in the calm waters. Phyllis is a remarkable woman, born and raised in Dallas, Texas. She’s a very generous animal advocate, chairing two high profile pet charities “Paws Cause” and the “Fur Ball,” where she’s been successful in raising over $1.5 million dollars for the Texas SPCA. We’ve had a great 20+ years fostering and rescuing a total of six boxer dogs and are blessed to have a healthy and peaceful lifestyle where we enjoy travel, culture and nature. HW: What led you to put on your gloves and get into the Fight Business and work with some of the biggest names in boxing? During my transition from Humitech, I received a call from a New York friend
Phyllis Comu & CJ Comu Charity Night
Monaco - Private Equity Conference
who said he had a pro boxer who wanted to get out of his contract. I said, “Why are you calling me…call an Attorney.” He said he didn’t trust attorneys (great point) and wanted to talk to a business executive. I had the free time, so I flew to NY to meet with the fighter and his promoter. I said, “Let me manage you guys,” and that’s how I got involved in professional boxing or, as I say the “fight business.” I met and became friends with Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Roy Jones Jr. and many celebrities like Sylvester Stallone, George Clooney, Pamela HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 7
you must have the capital to stay in the game to see it through.
Vince Neil
Anderson, and even (now President) Businessman Donald Trump. It was quite the ride! In 2008, I started Sun Sports & Entertainment, to pursue a new sport which was just licensed in the State of Texas. I had never heard of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), which is also referred to as Cage Fighting, until the sport came to Texas. I received a call from Mark Cuban’s company HDNET, who said “Mark wants to get in the fight business, if you produce the event, Mark will shoot and broadcast it.” That’s how I started working with Mark Cuban. We produced some of the most exciting MMA Events. During this time, professional boxing was on “life support” and MMA was on fire. I approached the major TV networks (CBC, NBC, ABC, FOX) and said I would deliver the HOTTEST and FASTEST growing sport in the WORLD. However, I needed a broadcast partner to (a) attract national advertisers and (b) feed the Pay-Per-View formula. Nobody got it and I realized I was too early in the life of the sport and decided to retire early. Today, MMA is the HOTTEST and FASTEST growing sport in the world and the UFC business bought by the Fertitta Brothers of Vegas for $4M was sold to IMG for $4 BILLON. Lesson: It’s nice to have vision – but 8 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
HW: Entrepreneurs are known for being innovative. How did you transition from the fight business into launching the first public electric car company? After I retired from SUN, I formed an Investment Banking Firm called Regus Advisors, Inc. (RAI) and served as the Founder, Chairman and CEO with a mission to explore minority investments in upcoming companies. Our first venture was an electric car company called Green Automotive. We brought the first Chinese manufactured mini electric SUV to America. It was a revolutionary SUV with a top speed of 90 MPH and range of 175 Miles. We funded the company, brought the SUV’s to the U.S. and were as giddy as kids because we were first to market with this “super hot and super affordable,” electric SUV under $30,000. We took the company public and were the first EV public company (before Tesla).
China Keynote Speech
HW: We’ve heard about the tremendous highs and lows in entrepreneurship. With your diversity from electric cars to the Algae and Biofuel business, what challenges have you overcome and lessons you’ve learned? After learning about EV cars and renewable energy, the next opportunity I discovered was converting Algae into BioFuel. I formed and funded a company called Algae International Group (ALGA) and took them public in the USA as their Chairman. They had a proprietary system to convert Algae into Biofuel from a multi-milliondollar waste water treatment facility in California. This was during a time when oil had almost reached $150 a barrel and the concerns of “alternative fuels” were the top headlines at the state and federal levels. We teamed up with the Scrips Institute at the University of California, San Diego and the City of Tulare. The results were incredible and the list of players from government to the military started to
line up. But as the classic story goes in the world of entrepreneurship – you can’t build a business on zero cash and we were unable to attract the institutional investors to fund the build out. HW: What led you to expand into the UK? I started noticing a big economic wave in the UK and decided to increase our presence abroad, forming EuroCap Investments PLC (ECAP), a holding company in the UK. As the Chairman, Founder and CEO, I took it public on the GXG Exchange. ECAP was designed to identify and make minority investments of cash and stock in privately held companies in EU and UK, grooming these into an eventual listing on the GXG. ECAP identified a few companies and completed a few transactions, however the time involved in operations and leadership created multiple road blocks, many of which were poor management. Another Lesson - always have back up plan. HW: All of this has led to the creation of EarthWater. How and why did you create this “black water” company? People ask me this question quite often and it’s always fun to share the story. I was having lunch in London with a business colleague who invited a friend to join us. When he arrived, I met Bryson. He was 82 years old. I stood up to shake his hand and he gave me one of those handshakes like Arnold Schwarzenegger! After we sat down, he apologized for being late because he had decided to walk from Paddington Station instead of taking the Tube to our meeting. Shocked, I said “Wow, that’s over an hour away!” He cheerfully replied, “well actually an hour and 15 minutes.” We ordered lunch and I recall Bryson ordering a rare steak. While we were dining, my associate Roger said to Bryon, “you
Regus Advisors Inc
Nasdaq with Jane King HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 9
look amazing what have you been doing with yourself?” Naturally, I put my fork down and leaned forward to hear this story of the man who walked an hour and 15 minutes, crushed my hand and was now enjoying a steak for lunch. Bryson said, “I found this black liquid concentrate made of natural trace minerals from Planet Earth and have been putting it in everything from my tea, water and sprinkling it on my salad. It has changed my life. My joints don’t ache, I sleep less, the whites of my eyes are clearer and I feel fantastic!” Naturally I was totally intrigued and wanted to know what It was called and where I could buy it. He shared it was called black water, 4 oz and £49 Sterling (about $60 U.S) Well, that’s all I needed to hear! That evening, curiosity got the better of me and I searched “Black Water” online and learned about these natural trace minerals. To my amazement, this company with little or no presence was based in my old home town of Vancouver, Canada. I flew to Vancouver for a meeting because I obviously wanted to know where these minerals came from. After meeting the two men who found the minerals, I asked “Where do they come from?” They looked at me and said “TEXAS.” Well, I almost fell out of my chair!! I said “London – Vancouver – Texas,” if this isn’t a Bermuda Triangle, I don’t know what else it could be. I formed EarthWater in 2014 in the UK to explore this new business. I have been drinking the product every day since. Fast forward to today, five years later, we are in 121 Countries around the world with over 20 SKU’s. We’ve been featured on TV, Radio, in Print and Sporting Events around the world and our mission remains the same, “to help improve people’s lives with our all-natural life essential trace minerals.” The journey is now in full swing and the next chapter of my life
is in motion. I am also honored to sit on the of the American Diabetes Association North Texas Leadership Board and support the awareness of diabetes, a disease which impacts millions of people in the United States. Only time will tell where my life will go and what the future holds. Stay tuned! It’s most certain to never be a dull moment. Hollywood Weekly brings you exciting news of the Stars - but occasionally we find a person with a story that builds business and creates Stars and with that, we salute CJ Comu for a job well done.
Miss Earth 2018
David Ragan, EarthWater NASCAR Driver 10 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
Hollywood International Youth Film Festival By Victor Migalchan The end of 2018 had a very special event in the heart of Los Angeles. The award ceremony of the Hollywood International Film Festival took place in the Henry Fonda Theatre on the Hollywood boulevard. As organization committee members shared: their goal was to create an international powerful platform for young filmmakers, story tellers, TV personalities, journalists and media. “Our goal is to create a quality international platform and respective award for younger generations, as an equivalent to Oscars,” shared Mr Dong Yu, a famous writer from China and Vice Head of the Judging committee for the 12 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
Festival. “I am so honored to be invited to this event, and to be part of it not just as guest, but as Vice Head of the judging committee. Since I’m writer, my department’s responsibility was scripts and stories and I am happy to admit that we were impressed by the skills and creativity of our participants.”
Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia.
The 2018 Festival brought in participants from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, England, France, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Turkey, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Russia, China,
The TV section was divided into two subsections: TV Film, TV Series. As the organization committee reported, they used the standard Hollywood nomination system, such as: Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress, as well as Best Director, Producer, Editor, Film, etc.
Judges had to work on more than 1000 projects. The Festival had 2 major sections: Film and TV. The “Film” section was also divided into subsections: short films, feature films and documentaries.
However, there was another very special award: The Lifetime Achievement Award for the contribution in the development of filmmaking and contribution to the youth. This year only few very special and highly respected personalities in Hollywood were chosen to receive this award: Emmy winner Mr Kim Estes; pioneer of female boxing, World Boxing Champion and Hollywood actress, Ms. Daisy Lang; Martial Arts champion and Hollywood actor, Mr. Sasha Mitchell; Emmy winner, Mr Nicolas Coster; Martial Arts Champion and Hollywood actress, Ms. Cynthia Rothrock; Hollywood actress, Ms. Sarah Butler, who also co-hosted the festival together with Victor Migalchan, Hollywood Red Carpet Host. As the organization committee reports, this year the competition was very strong. Special attention was given to Steve Jacques, an American actor who received the Best Leading Actor award; Cindy Chu, another American actress, who received the Best Leading Actress award; Elaine Dong, a young actress who received the Best Child Star Award; Andri Korotun, an award-winning editor from Europe,
who got the Best Editor Award; Jade Polvani, who got the Best Upcoming Star Award. MuYang Lin, a young and very talented journalist, received the Most Unique Story Award. Troy Montgomery won the Best Light Work Award; Gennadii Omelianiuk got the Best Supporting Actor from Europe Award. The biggest and most difficult competition was in the TV Section. The Best Director Award went to Hollywood director, Mr. Hugo Will. The Best TV Show Award was given to “Vivi in the Valley.” The Best Actor Award was given to Hollywood actor, Mr. Tyler Dash; the Best Supporting Actress Award went to Julia Luciv; Mr. Troy Montgomery won the Best Producer Award. Ms. Vivi Lin took home the Best TV Journalist Award. The full list of winners are available upon request at the Hollywood Film Academy.
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TV | The Big Bang Theory
“The D & D Vortex” -- Pictured: Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons) and Leonard “Uncanny Valley of the Dolls” -- Holmes and Watson discover that the murder of a robotHofstadter (Johnny Galecki). When the gang finds out Wil Wheaton hosts a celebriics engineer may be connected to his groundbreaking secret research in the area of real-life ty Dungeons and Dragons game involving William Shatner, Joe Manganiello, teleportation. Also, when Detective Bell is shut out of a required class he needs in order to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Kevin Smith, deception and betrayal are the path to make complete his master’s degree and join the U.S. Marshal Service, he is shocked to discover the it to the one open seat, on THE BIG BANG THEORY, on the CBS Television Netcourse instructor has personal reasons for denying him access, on ELEMENTARY, Monday, work. Photo: Michael Yarish/CBS ©2019 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved August 13 (10:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Pictured Jon Michael Hill as Detective Marcus Bell JEFF NEIRA/CBS ©2018 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved
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Spotlight
TV | MacGyver
TV | FAM
“Drunk In Love” -- During their engagement party, Clem and Nick are both shocked to learn that the other has been keeping an embarrassing secret about how they met, on FAM, on the CBS Television Network. Pictured (L-R): Nina Dobrev as Clem, Tone Bell as Nick, and Brian Stokes Mitchell as Walt. Photo: Cliff Lipson/CBS ©2018 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved TV | Charmed
TELLING THE TRUTH — With Macy (Madeleine Mantock) on a quest to find answers, she goes against Harry’s (Rupert Evans) advice and summons up a Necromancer which puts her and Maggie (Sarah Jeffery) in harm’s way. Maggie attends a frat party at Lucy’s (guest star Natalie Hall) encouragement, to help her get over Parker (Nick Hargrove). Brad Silberling directed the episode written by Michael Reisz (#112). HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 15
Spotlight
TV | Mom
TV | Man With A Plan
“The New Old School” -- When Adam catches Kate sneaking back into the house at night, he is determined to fix the behavior with old-school parenting tactics. Also, Andi is dismayed when she can’t find many baby pictures of Emme, on MAN WITH A PLAN, on the CBS Television Network. Pictured Grace Kaufman as Kate Burns Photo: Robert Voets/CBS ©2018 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved
“Pre-Washed Lettuce and a Mime” - Christy has second thoughts about law school after a tough first day, and Bonnie is plagued by an upsetting dream, on the sixth season premiere of MOM, on the CBS Television Network. Pictured: Anna faris as Christy. Photo: Robert Voets/CBS©2018 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved
TV |FBI
“Exposed” -- After an investigative journalist is murdered, the team uncovers information linking the suspect to past cases. The victim’s death also strikes a chord with Maggie, leaving her desperate for answers in regard to a traumatic event in her personal life, on FBI, on the CBS Television Network. Pictured: Missy Peregrym, Zeeko Zaki Photo: Michael Parmelee/CBS ©2019 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved
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Spotlight
TV | Roswell, New Mexico
FLASHBACKS TO 2008 — In a series of flashbacks to 2008, secrets are uncovered about Rosa’s final day, Isobel’s (Lily Cowles) mysterious blackouts and Alex (Tyler Blackburn) and Michael’s (Michael Vlamis) relationship in high school. Jeanine Mason, Nathan Parsons, Michael Trevino and Trevor St. John also star. Tim Andrew directed the episode written by Eva McKenna & Carina Adly MacKenzie (#106).
TV | Survivor
“It Smells Like Success” - Lauren O’Connell, David Wright, Chris Underwood and the Mana Tribe on the premiere of SURVIVOR: Edge of Extinction, on the CBS Television Network. Timothy Kuratek/ CBS Entertainment ©2018 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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Mu Yang: Lin A Unique Journalist By Victor Migalchan
Mu Yang Lin is a unique journalist from China. He started his path in China and later on moved to the US. He has been interviewed by CNN, received multiple awards, invitations to work with the US and Chinese media and present his own book. Holywood Weekly Good day, Muyang, thank you for coming to the interview. Good day, thank you for having me. HW:How did you become interested in Media and Public Relations (PR)? I was born and raised in a media-passionate and driven family. My mom was a Chinese literature teacher so she always wanted me to read books and newspaper as 18 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
much as I could. My father, despite the fact he was an extraordinary architect, stayed very active and published a number of historical and political articlesin different kinds of newspaper and journals.
HW: Which events or people motivated you to choose Media and PR as your profession? In 2004, I participated in the first Shenzhen Youth Journalist Competition and Job Fair. The purpose of this event was to choose six assistant student editors for “Shenzhen Youth Newspaper,” which was one of the top circulated weekly newspapers in Shenzhen. Among all the editor nominees, I was the youngest. In order to win, I kept emphasizing my advantages, even my younger age could help me. I became the finalist and was appointed as a student editor. I felt honored that my media skills were being appreciated.
HW: Which were your first steps in Media? The reason why I stepped in the media world was simple. I needed money so I could secretly purchase video games behind my parents’ back. Therefore, I started to submit my writing to different kinds of newspaper and journals. One of my articles was published on Shenzhen Youth Scientist. I’ve learned three lessons in my early media career: I write well; I can get paid by writing; I can influence oth- HW: After your success in China you decided to move to the US, ers through media.
I write well; I can get paid by writing; I can influence others through media. get an education and pursue your career here. Which challenges did you face in China? The years when I was the editor of “Shenzhen Youth” was fun and substantial. I was responsible for a number of stories that kept a watchful eye on the livelihood of the people in the city. My passion for being a media practitioner did not fade away after my three years tenure. I still kept close attention to any media-related territory. In 2011, I worked as the assistant editor in Shenzhen Press Group. However, I gradually realized the media atmosphere in China might not be the fertile ground for media enthusiast like me. It was time for me to move to the the U.S., the birthplace of free press. HW: In the methodological book you created you share unique ways of development in Media and PR, could you please share with our readers details of your unique system?
In my methodological book I describe many creative ways to improve media practices. As I said earlier, fake news is second-tonone the greatest threat to the entire media and PR world. It not only jeopardizes the credibility of mass media, but also provides false information to mislead readers. Therefore, I would specifically mention my suggestion to fight against fake news right here. In my book I share ways of stopping fake news and many other details and industry combinations not really used nowadays.
where multicultural intercommunication seems to be the key to booming. HW: Thank you Muyang for your inspiring story and wish you best of luck. Thank you!
HW: Which projects are you working on now? What are your future plans? After my book was published in China, I worked on an English edition and plan to publish it in the US this year. In the future, I am willing to devote myself more to the entertainment business, specifically the movie and video game industry 19 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
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Very Good(3 stars) Rated R for profanity, drug use, sexual references and graphic violence Running time: 118 minutes Production Company: Paradox Films / StudioCanal By: Kam Williams
Nels Coxman (Liam Neeson) is Kehoe, Colorado’s most reliable snowplow driver. He was recently named the popular ski resort area’s “Citizen of the Year” for keeping its treacherous mountain roads clear during the blizzards which routinely threaten to disrupt the town’s tourist season.
a drug cartel. As it turns out, Kyle was ostensibly murdered in a case of mistaken identity on orders from a kingpin known as Viking (Tom Bateman).
That’s little consolation to Nels who suddenly becomes blinded by rage. The mild-mannered pillar of the community morphs into a sadistic spree killer Not used to making public appearances before an determined to track down the powerful mobster who audience, the shy civil servant needs some help from ordered the hit on his boy. However, Viking has an his wife (Laura Dern) dressing and preparing an accep- army of minions running interference, which means tance speech. Unfortunately, tragedy strikes the night Nels must negotiate a perilous gauntlet en route to of the awards dinner when their son (MicheálRichard- his well-protected target. son) dies of a drug overdose in nearby Denver. Thus unfolds Cold Pursuit, a riveting vigilante thrillAfter identifying the body at the morgue, Grace (“We er directed by Hans Petter Moland. The movie is a didn’t know our own son.”) is inclined to accept the po- faithful, English-language adaptation of In Order lice explanation that Kyle had been a heroin addict. But of Disappearance, a gratuitous gorefest which Mohubby Nels (“Kyle wasn’t a druggie!”) is very skeptical, land made in his native Norway in 2014. This equalsince the kid had no history of drug use and had been ly-gruesome remake similarly veers back and forth gainfully employed as a baggage handler at Kehoe’s between slaughter and slapstick, never fully commitairport at the time of his demise. ting to comedy or drama. So, the grieving dad decides to do a little digging on his Whether we’re supposed to laugh at or recoil from own and soon discovers that Dante (Wesley MacInnes), the escalating body count, Cold Pursuit, at heart, is a a co-worker of Kyle’s, had stolen a kilo of cocaine from wanton splatterflick certain to satiate the bloodlust of fans of the genre. 22 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 23
PACIFISM: NOW IS THE TIME Dr. James Kellenberger War has been with us as long as there has been recorded history. The Bible tells of wars fought by the people of Israel against the Canaanites, and more that two thousand years ago there were wars between Greek city-states. Every century has had its war or wars. Often in recent centuries wars have been between nations or between nations and quasi-nations (like ISIS). There have been civil wars, regional wars, and world wars. Wars have been fought for expansion, for national security, in retaliation, and to maintain a nation’s economic position. Some wars are wars of aggression undertaken by one side to gain territory. Some wars are wars of self-defense engaged in by one side in opposition to aggression. This suggests that sometimes engaging in war may be “justified” for at least one side in a conflict. However, every country that goes to war sees its cause as justified, whether it goes to war in defense or to expand or for other reasons.
an army have to be trained and conditioned to kill the enemy, and there have been those who renounce war and violence, as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. did. Many others not so well known have done so as well. Wars occur with horrendous regularity, but they are not inevitable. They are not like disease. They occur because human beings in positions of power decide to engage in a war action. This means that if humankind or the decision -makers of the world had the will they could turn from war. Those who consistently turn from war are pacifists. They renounce war and hold that war should be renounced by everyone. Many who are not pacifists concede that war is an evil and then proceed to proclaim that their war is a “necessary evil,” necessary, that is, to attain their end. There are reasons to turn from and to renounce all war, however. There are two significant reasons to repudiate war: a religious reason and a moral reason.
and other sources that are pacifist. This is so even though there have been wars between religions, wars fought in the name of religions, and wars allowed by or approved of by religions. Both Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. were religious persons, Gandhi a Hindu and King a Christian. More than a few terrorists and suicide bombers have identified themselves as Muslims, but many Muslims reject violent jihad. In the Qur’an a verse tells believers to respond in peace when the enemy inclines toward peace, and in the hadith (a collection of the sayings of the prophet Muhammad) many of Muhammad’s sayings call for kindness and love. Though there is not a strong Islamic pacifist tradition there have been Muslims who have followed the way of nonviolence. Rabia Terri Harris, the founder of the Muslim Peace Fellowship, is a contemporary example. In the Jewish tradition, though again there is no well-established pacifist tradition, peace is recognized as a value. In the Hebrew Bible (which corresponds to the Christian Old Testament) in the book of Isaiah that prophet says that the Lord will ordain peace and prophesies a time when swords will be beaten into plowshares and nations will cease to war against nations. An organization within the Jewish tradition that today works for social justice and peace is Jewish Voices for Peace.
The constancy of war in human history has led some to the view The Religious Reason. All the reIn Taoism (or Daoism) and Conthat war is inherent in human na- ligious traditions of the world value ture, embedded in our DNA. But peace, and within the various reli- fucianism, two Eastern religious trathis is not so. Those inducted into gious traditions there are scriptural ditions, there is no explicit teaching 24 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
of pacifism. Yet in Taoism Laotse in the Tao Te Ching advises all to avoid the use of arms and when it cannot be avoided to exercise restraint. Mencius in the Confucian tradition says that while a tyrant will exercise force, a “true king” will practice benevolence in a virtuous spirit. Ahimsa (commitment to nonviolence) is a fundamental teaching in the Eastern religious traditions of Jainism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. It requires nonviolence in every dimension of a person’s life and toward every living creature. As a renunciation of all violence it repudiates war. The Buddhist teaching of compassion for all sentient beings correlates with ahimsa and by itself is a rejection of war. The life of Gautama Buddha (the historical Buddha, who lived in India in the sixth or fifth century BC) exhibited nonviolence. In the Christian scriptures there is no specific teaching regarding nonviolence or nonparticipation in war. However, the commandment to love our neighbors carries with it the implication to practice nonviolence toward them and not to engage in warfare. The life of Jesus, who called the peacemakers blessed and taught that we should turn the other cheek rather than strike back, epitomizes nonviolence. In the first centuries of Christianity the early Christians were pacifists. It is important to recognize that the Buddhist teaching of compassion and the Christian teaching of love by themselves require the practice of pacifism. If we love our
neighbors, we will not engage them in war. Love of others, or compassion for them, does not allow machine gunning, bombing them, or in other ways inflicting death or harm on them. The root teachings of Buddhism and Christianity when taken seriously rule out war and provide a sufficient reason for following pacifism. The Moral Reason. Like the religious reason the moral reason against war has several expressions. In its simplest expression it cites the well-recognized moral principle that it is wrong to kill another human being. When states terminate the lives of those convicted of a serious crime they term their taking of human life an “execution,” not murder. When nations go to war they authorize the members of their military to kill those who are the enemy and characterize such killing as justified and not murder. But the legitimacy of such authorization is doubtful, The nations on opposite sides in a war action authorize the killing of those on the other side, but not those on their own side, which makes doubtful the legitimacy of either authorization. The very idea of such an authorization is doubtful, as though a political pronouncement could negate the moral principle that killing another human being is wrong. And if that moral principle stands it is a moral reason against war or one expression of the moral reason against war.
beings have the right to be treated as persons, to be respected as persons, There may be some question about all that is required in order to meet this basic right of persons, but it is clear that at a minimum treating persons with hate or dehumanizing them violates their right to be respected as persons. In wartime, though, this is just what happens. When a nation goes to war it encourages hate of those on the other side, the enemy, or even worse their dehumanization. A part of the training of soldiers teaches them to see the enemy as dehumanized. They become “gooks” or “devils.” As those who conduct military training appreciate, if enemy soldiers are seen as dehumanized it becomes psychologically easier to kill them. They are no longer seen as persons and can now be seen as targets. The fostering of hate or dehumanization is a part of the violence of war that occurs before the first enemy soldier is killed. And in itself it violates the right of hundreds or thousands or millions of persons to be treated as persons.
War by its nature causes death, destruction, and suffering; and perhaps the most obvious expression of the moral reason against war is that it has such terrible effects. All wars cause death, destruction, and suffering, but these effects of war have become amplified in modern warfare in which technologically advanced weapons are used. This expression of the moral reason against war applies to all war, but Another expression of the mor- it applies with most force against al reason against war derives from modern warfare, warfare as it has moral justice and respect for the developed since the beginning of rights of human beings. Human the twentieth century. So we will fo HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 25
cus on modern warfare and direct the argument based on this expression of the moral reason against war as it has occurred since 1900 and is likely to occur in the future. In the Second World War in one estimate there were between twenty-one and twenty-five million combatant deaths and between fifty and eighty million civilian deaths. In the Vietnam War there were over seven hundred thousand military deaths and over six hundred thousand civilian deaths, while over the years of the Iraq War there were 461,000 total deaths, including hundreds of thousands civilian deaths. Many civilian deaths are caused by aerial bombing, one of the innovations of modern warfare. Modern warfare also results in many thousands of civilians suffering amputation or otherwise being wounded. Modern wars destroy infrastructure and agriculture and can cause famine. Aerial bombardment of cities and villages create the suffering of homelessness for thousands. Lives are disrupted and families are separated on a scale that is hard for those who have not experienced war to imagine. And after the combat of war there are
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other long-range effects. One of these is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which affects both civilians who live in a war zone and returning soldiers.
war, for a nation’s going on a war footing can stimulate that nation’s economy – at least in the short run.) Often economic reasons can be given for doing what is wrong.
This effects-focused expression of the moral reason is enough to justify the renunciation of modern war – the kind of warfare the world now faces – but it is only one expression of the moral reason, and the other expressions address warfare in all its forms.
The religious reason against engaging in war actions, especially in its Buddhist and Christian expressions, is sufficient to justify pacifism and the renunciation of war. This is so even though Buddhists and Christians have engaged in war. In fact in the Middle Ages the Crusades were undertaken by Christians in the name of Christianity (although many crusaders had mixed motives). Nevertheless the requirements of compassion or love mandate the renunciation of war, as do ahimsa and Christian nonviolence. In the same way the moral reason is sufficient to justify pacifism. The moral right of person to be respected as persons rules out killing or harming them as absolutely as compassion or love. The religious reason and the moral reason can go together. They are compatible and do not exclude each other, but either alone is enough to bring us rightly to turn from war.
The religious reason and the moral reason are universal reasons. They address all of us. You don’t have to be a Buddhist to recognize the rightness of compassion or a Christian to recognize the rightness of love. The moral reason addresses all who have a morality, as we all do even if we have moral differences. These two reasons are universal in addressing and applying to all persons. In this they contrast with individual reasons, such as personal fear of being in combat, and nation-specific reasons, such as the judgment that going to war is not in your nation’s self-interest or that going to war will harm your nation’s economy. (Actually economic reasons are more likely to be brought forward in favor of engaging in
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When I got the script, I remember thinking; these are words boys get to say…. and how tough boys get to play.
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H
ailing from South Jersey, Katrina Law’s high school activities included varsity track, soccer, cheerleading, even weightlifting. She was also a member of The National Honors Society and won the title of Miss New Jersey Teen USA. After graduating with a theater degree from the Richard Stockton College of NJ, Katrina appeared on “CSI: Miami” and “Legend of the Seeker,” as well as supporting and lead roles in a number of films, including “Alpha Males Experiment,” “Lucky Numbers,” “Emmett’s Mark,” “The Learning Curve,” and “Bottomfeeders.” Katrina also landed the key role of Mira on the hit series, “Spartacus.” Fans then followed her on CW’s “Arrow” as the recurring DC comic book character, Nyssa Al Ghul. More recently Katrina landed the role of Rebecca Lee in the crime-drama series “Training Day” and later as Stephanie Bailey in the horror-drama series “Sacred Lies.” In the gritty gangland drama “The Oath,” Katrina is Karen Beach, a member of the secret Ravens police gang and the only female lead in a series headed for season 2. Thank you for taking the time for this interview. In fiercely competitive L.A., what was the aha moment when you realized, okay, I can make a living at this? Katrina Law: I would have to say probably “Spartacus.” It was my big break. Steven S. DeKnight and Rob Tapert took a chance on me and the series went on to be an international hit. It was the first time I’d actually gained success in my acting career. From there, it just kind of kept going. On the surface, “The Oath” seems like a mean and dirty boys-only film. What attracted you to the role of Karen?
KL: My favorite thing about Karen is that she is one of the boys. She is just as tough if not tougher. She plays just as hard, if not harder. She’s accepted as one of the boys, which is very rare in scripts these days. I love how hard and fast she plays. A lot of times, the guys look at her and they’re like OMG, did you just see that? She has something to prove and a chip on her shoulder. So she’s very aware that she’s in a man’s world and that she knows that if she wants to play and compete, she needs to go above and beyond what men normally do. Can you go into your audition for the role? You mentioned at one point that you thought it was a part for a male character. KL: The sides were amazing. When I got the script, I remember thinking; these are words boys get to say. This is how tough boys get to play. Normally, women have to stand behind men to either placate them, be softer, or have a sensitivity that men aren’t required to have. But Karen just goes all out. It was a lot of fun. I initially thought Robert De Niro could play this part. This isn’t something you pass up. Were you able to dovetail any of your real-life experiences into this demanding role? KL: I think Karen Beach is not very similar to Katrina Law (laughs). I don’t have to be as hard or as manipulative. I get to be softer. Then again, I’m not part of this world of brutality and violence. Yes, there are definitely parts that I can relate to, having to compete but not to the extremes that Karen has to go to. In terms of personality, how are you like Karen Beach and how are you different? KL: I think my drive comes out in Karen. I definitely
Katrina Law
Arrow’s Nyssa Al Ghul is a Rogue Cop in Season 2 of “The Oath” By Alex A. Kecskes HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 29
I definitely have my Jersey attitude that comes out…and I channel most of that for Karen Beach. have my Jersey attitude that comes out now and then. And I think I channel most of that for Karen. So, yeah, the East Coast attitude definitely comes in handy. And when I’m tired and not feeling sympathetic toward other people, I can definitely have a harsher view of the world, thinking, it’s black and white guys. You either do it or you don’t. So that part of my personality gets to shine a bit brighter than it normally does. What did you find most challenging about your role and being in this series? KL: On a physical level, it was very hard working in Puerto Rico after hurricane Maria. We were being asked to work in a disaster area that’s still in the process of recovery. It’s difficult going to the set every day knowing that some of your crew still don’t have water or electricity. And knowing that this vital city block that used to be vibrant with activity and life has six of its buildings shut down because of the hurricane and things aren’t up and running yet. So realizing that we’re making this actor’s salary and living this dream job on this tropical island that’s still beautiful, while people are still dying because they can’t get access to clean water. It’s still challenging, which is why I was so proud of “The Oath” and Crackle for going back down to Puerto Rico and honoring their word to finish up this series after the hurricane season. It made everyone feel better—from the local casting crew to others being flown in—to finish Season 2. There was a camaraderie that you don’t get on a lot of sets, especially when you’re being forced into a situation like this. So it was challenging but also a very beautiful thing to go through. 30 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
The camaraderie was palpable. You could feel it watching the first season. KL: The boys and I got along really well. We really clicked. It was one of the best casts to work with and the crew was amazing. We’d be at the hotel hanging out and have beach days and go out on the island together. “The Oath” explores many areas of the human condition—loyalty, betrayal, justice, even redemption. What do you see as the series’ core message? KL: I think the core message is that sometimes life takes you in directions that you weren’t prepared for. It’s definitely not about glorifying cop violence or brutality. “The Oath” explores how a cop who signed up to do something good, who probably had the best intentions of protecting the community, gets roped into being a criminal. How it’s a slippery slope and how easy it is to find yourself immersed in crime before you even realize it. It’s more about why people would stay in criminal activity and how they would justify it. And eventually, how they try to redeem themselves and get out of it.
Will Season 2 go deeper into the backstories of Karen and some of the other characters? KL: We’ll get a lot of backstories in Season 2. I actually had a great time filming Season 2. I was so happy with Joe Halpin and the writing team and what they gave my character to do. And how much I got to sink my teeth into. So if you thought Season 1 was juicy for Karen, Season 2 gets even better. You get all of her backstory. And it is juicy and dark. As portrayed in “The Wire” and similar gritty cop dramas, there’s always a lot of police jargon and gang shorthand. Did you have to bring yourself up to speed on that? KL: We did a lot of that in Season 1 and the great thing about having Joe Halpin, who was part of the LAPD Sheriff’s department, and the tech support we got from Reinhardt (Schuerger) was that they were on hand every day. They made sure we looked the part and spoke the part. Little things like how you walk up to a vehicle and how you stand, things that civilians don’t think about. Another thing, if you’re right-handed and shoot with your right hand, you won’t present your right side to a suspect. So that if a suspect tries to reach for your gun, they have to reach farther. Can you talk about the physical demands of the role, something you’re no doubt used to, having been in “Arrow” and “Spartacus”? KL: The physical demands weren’t crazier than anything I did on “Arrow” or “Spartacus.” The main difference is you go from hand-held weapons to a Glock. Like when you pull a gun, it becomes an extension of you. And you learn about gun safety on set, like never to point a gun at someone you’re not ready to shoot. Also to make sure there’s a weapons check every time a gun is passed from one hand to another. I had a little bit of that on “Training Day” but not nearly as much as we did on “The Oath.” And, again, the heat and humidity of Puerto Rico were physically challenging. We were wearing our cop uniforms and leather jackets. Tell us a bit about Nepal, living with villagers, and working with buildOn. KL: What a great organization. I highly recommend it to anyone who has ever wanted to reach out and do something more than donate money to an online service. BuildOn is a great way to go out, explore the world, and meet the people you’re helping. I’d never done anything like that. My friend, actress Erin Cahill, put together a group and said, we’re going to a school in Nepal, would anyone like to join? I thought it was the coolest thing on the planet, so I signed up. We spent five days with the villagers and then we broke ground on a school. I’m so happy that I did it
because there’s nothing like it. Nepal is so beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time. The support we got from the villages—from five-year-old kids to 90-year-old grandmothers—was an amazing show of pride in what they were doing. It was an experience to pump your own water and to dump water to flush a toilet hole in the ground. We spent about a year raising over $120,000 and built three schools. Part of that money went to send ten inner-city kids from New York City to break ground for a school in Haiti. It helps inner-city kids see the world, understand volunteerism, and help kids down there.
The core message in “ The Oath ” is that sometimes life takes you in directions that you weren’t prepared for HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 31
Book of the Month Kam Williams “Despite dramatic social transformations in the United States during the last 150 years, the South has remained staunchly conservative. Southerners are more likely to support Republican candidates, gun rights, and the death penalty, and southern whites harbor higher levels of racial resentment than whites in other parts of the country. Why haven’t these sentiments evolved or changed? “Deep Roots” shows that the entrenched political and racial views of contemporary white southerners are a direct consequence of the region’s slaveholding history, which continues
32 • HOLLYWOOD WMONTHLY
to shape economic, political, and social spheres. Today, southern whites who live in areas once reliant on slavery—compared to areas that were not—are more racially hostile and less amenable to policies that could promote black progress.”
nying African-Americans the right to vote, travel, buy land, possess a gun, get an education, and so forth.
Over the course of the 150+ years since Emancipation, the descendants of slave owners have continuously operated to prevent blacks from pursuing the American Dream. In the face of the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments, southern municipalities, cities and states passed Jim Crow laws de-
A timely tome which explains why, from neo-Nazis marching in Charlottesville to Virginia politicians donning blackface, when it comes to the South, the more things change, the more they remain insane.
The punishment for even the slightest of infractions ranged from whipping to lynching in order to strictly maintain the region’s color-coded caste system. “Racial violence was an important component of the development of anti-black attitudes, Excerpted from the dust even among poor whites.” Furtherjacket more, “White children were often William Faulkner is the only present... and, in some striking cases, Nobel prize-winner born in they were also active participants.” Mississippi, which is where most of his stories are set. So, is it any surprise that, “As of the One of this preeminent 2016 election, all of the former states Southern writer’s most mem- of the Confederacy had implementorable lines is, “The past is ed some voter identification law” in never dead. It’s not even past.” an effort to deny as many black citThat quote comes to mind izens as possible access to the balwhile reading “Deep Roots: lot box? Advocates of Confederate How Slavery Still Shapes South- monuments and memorials continern Politics.” That’s because, after ue to claim the Civil War was waged conducting painstaking research, over states’ rights, conveniently igauthors Avidit Acharya, Matthew noring the assertion of the designBlackwell and Maya Sen arrived er of the rebel battle flag that, “As a at a conclusion (“History shapes people, we are fighting to maintain contemporary political culture.”) the heaven-ordained supremacy of which sounds like a paraphrase of the white man over the inferior or colored race.” Faulkner’s famous saying.
61st Annual Daytona 500
“DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 17: MTV star Chad Tepper checks out Monster Energy’s “Smoke Show” attraction prior to the 2019 Daytona 500. (Photo by NASCAR)” (PICTURED IN PHOTO: Chad Tepper) “DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 17: Celebrities attend the Driver’s Meeting during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 61st Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 17, 2019 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)” (PICTURED IN PHOTO, from left: Julian Edelman and Gavin DeGraw)
“DAYTONA BEACH, FL – FEBRUARY 17: Grammy-award winning singers Tori Kelly and Gavin DeGraw join American Gods star Ricky Whittle in meet and greet with NASCAR legends Austin Dillon and Richard Childress. (Photo by NASCAR)” (PICTURED IN PHOTO, from left: Tori Kelly, Ricky Whittle, Austin Dillon, Gavin DeGraw, and Richard Childress)
“DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 17: Celebrities attend the Driver’s Meeting during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 61st Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 17, 2019 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)” (PICTURED IN PHOTO, from left: Killer Mike, Gavin DeGraw, Tori Kelly and Ronnie Mund)
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 33
energies that were manifesting symptoms in her patients.
Editor’s Choice, Best of the Best, America’s Most Promising Companies and Practitionerss By Lady Adrienne Papp
Lisa Watkins Passionately Changing the Paradigm of Mental Health As a registered nurse, Lisa Watkins made her rounds administering treatments and encouragement to cancer patients, but soon she found she was also drawn to the work being done in an outpatient mental health facility in Bismarck, ND. The more she observed the more she realized that some of the patients had similar issues that she had herself. “I just started asking a lot of questions and had a deep-rooted interest and need to help people who were hurting emotionally, just as I was,” Watkins says. 34 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
After receiving education as a mental health nurse practitioner and further training as a certified functional medicine practitioner,
her paradigm for mental health treatment shifted dramatically. Translating her experience at the clinic into private practice, Watkins soon was offering help to people who were deeply troubled. “I listened to my patients sharing stories about their daily struggles, family life, family history, traumas, illnesses and other issues that may have had an emotional impact on their lives,” she says. “Those discussions gave me a place to start, and with the addition of energy therapies, we were able to dig into the real issues, as the mind always knows what the problems are and what needs to be healed.” Watkins also began doing energy work, including muscle testing and becoming a level two Reiki healer. She was also able to begin to clear negative
“A lot of these symptoms are stress related and exacerbated due to poor diet,” Watkins explains. “Things like gluten, specifically, are known to cause increased inflammation in the body. Other culprits of increased inflammation and stress on the body are sugar, eggs and dairy.” Now, after ten years as a mental health nurse practitioner, Watkins has developed a practice that incorporates the teachings of Dr. Kelly Brogan, Dr. Brad Nelson, and Dr. Joe Dispensa. “It is believed that diet is responsible for about 90% of all diseases. To assists the body in healing, I utilize a line of supplements, called Isotonix, the world’s most advanced nutraceuticals. Isotonix supplementation delivers nutrient dense solutions for efficient absorption with little to no GI distress, Lisa says. “It’s a powder that’s mixed with water to provide rapidly assimilated nutrients to the body. In as little as an hour I’ve had patients tell me that they feel more calm, and their thinking is clearer and more focused,” she adds. Youthful and Ageless™ will be working with Lisa for years to come and update you regularly on the latest. Until then, for appointments call 701-471-7066. Or email to LDWGROUPINC@ HOTMAIL.COM Website: www.ldwgroupinc.com and www.igotthevitamins.com
and allowing you to live healthier. That’s Dr. Block’s legacy and I’m trying to keep it going.”
Anti-Aging and Beauty Expert, Erin Lucie Presented by the Youthful and Ageless™ Movement, Adrienne Papp, Editorial Director When Erin Lucie was growing up and playing in her mother’s beauty shop in Tulsa, OK, little did she know that those early experiences would lead to a career emphasizing disease prevention and the promotion of health with an emphasis on aesthetic medicine. After attending beauty school at sixteen, Erin went on to work at a local medical spa. When it was time to move on to higher education, Erin studied journalism and education at Oklahoma State University, and at the same time became a national educator for Physicians Care Alliance, traveling extensively as she promoted their skin care products. The more she got involved, the more passionate about medicine and aesthetics she became. After graduating from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of Arts and setting some career goals, Erin decided to focus on medical aesthetics and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing
from The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. In 2011, Erin opened Mod Skin Nutrition in Tulsa a private skincare clinic with a modern twist on traditional aesthetic procedures. She eventually completed her Masters and Doctorates in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. As a newly credentialed Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) she was also invited to study alternative medicine with one of the top practitioners in the country, Dr. Jerome Block, who was doing groundbreaking work with protocols like neurotransmitter testing, hormone testing and the effectiveness of micronutrients in the diet. “Those studies gave me a whole new perspective on what medical treatments could involve, ”Erin says. “It was about getting to the source of a disease. Our health care system today is broken and based on sick-care not health-care. We give prescriptions in order to treat symptoms. The more illnesses you have the more insurance pays doctors for your visits. It’s a backwards industry. I want to get paid to keep you healthy, not ill, and that is what anti-aging medicine is about, getting to the root cause and preventing and correcting the disease pathways and keeping you well
That continuation process now includes a new clinic that Erin has recently opened to focus on women’s health and health promotion, disease prevention and health education. Luminate Direct Anti-Aging Care in now open in Tulsa, offering hormone replacement, cosmetic injections (including the innovative cannula technique), skin rejuvenation and nutritional supplements. “In the last five years I have had zero patients who had either a stroke or cancer with any of my protocols,” says Erin, who is a member of The American Association of Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery (AAAMS). “We want you to look better and feel better, and to do that you have to do the right things and do them safely.” For more information or to schedule an appointment: https://luminate.clinic
FEATURED WRITER ANTI AGING EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Adrienne Papp
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY• 35
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Laurence & Chico
Fall/Winter 2019 Runway Show
Holly - Grey Wool Oversized Coat with Pink Tulle Ruffle Dress Annon - Pink Faux Fur Coat Nicolette - Pink Faux Fur Dress with Denim Bow Tie Belt
Rachel - Gray Tweed Dress and Grey Tulle Jellyfish Necklace
Tess - Long White and Denim Jacket with Denim Dress with Pearls
Laurence & Chico
Fall/Winter 2019 Runway Show
Serena - Tropical Floral Print Blazer and Skirt with Red Polka Dots Print Shirt Lily - Yellow and Blue Geometric Jacquard Dress with Flower Ruffles
PK - White and Denim Jacket, Massage Tee and Denim Shorts with Ostrich Feathers
David - Yellow and Blue Geometric Jacquard Top with Flower Ruffles, Brown Plaid Skirt and Pants and Purple Tulle Ruffles
ClermontTwins - Backstage of the Laurence and Chico 2019 Runway Show Backstage Credit: Leandro Justen
Katia - Green Wool Vest Dress, Jacket and Turtle Neck
Hildie - Denim Dress with Pearls, Ruffles and Belt
Yulia - Green Wool Short and Long Vest, Skirt and Yellow Tulle Jellyfish Necklace
Ya - Yellow and Blue Geometric Jacquard Blazer with Flower Ruffles and Yellow Tulle Ruffle Dress Runway Credit: Dan Lecca
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Meet Stella Singleton-Jones of Sculptures by Stella in Baldwin Hills By Stella Singleton-Jones Today we’d like to introduce you to Stella Singleton-Jones. Stella, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today. My art career started when I was in the 8th grade at John Burroughs Jr. High, when my teacher, Mr. Shapiro entered my plaster sculpture into an overall art completion, which I won first placed. The prize was an internship program at Otis Art Institution. So from 1974 – 1976, I would go to Otis Art Institution in the early evening after school and on Saturday’s days for the next two years. When it was time for me to graduate from John Burroughs Jr. High, Otis Art Institution recommended me to attend Santa Monica High School, because they had the best art department in the state. So, I attended Santa Monica High 40 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
that fall of 1976, where my career took on a new meaning because I was exposed to painting and drawing. Unfortunately, the drawing instructor there, she and I did not see eye to eye. I wanted to draw abstractly, but she wanted me to draw like a picture. So this mishap ended my career as a drawer.
number one supporter in my art world, as well as my parents, unfortunately, I stopped my art career in stone sculpturing. Consequently, I took a 20 years break from the art world, never letting any of my co-workers/current friends to have any indignation of my past worth in the art world.
I, later on, graduated from Santa Monica High School and went on to Santa Monica Jr. College to expand my art career. Needless to say, I planted my foot down at Santa Monica Jr. College and discovered my true talent in the art world would be as an abstract sculptress in stone sculptures. My stone sculpture career started to blossom throughout the early 80’s and then came crashing down in a spiral effect in the later 80’s, due to the death of my brother, Derek Singleton, he was my
Life is funny and takes on some strange journeys, but on January 16 of 1996, I was stricken down with spinal meningitis, which left me in a coma for two and a half weeks and I remember when I had woken up, I could not move my legs and could not form my words to speak. I had to endure 6 months to several years of physical therapy. And every time I would go out into the public, I would become ill and had to endure a lot of medicines and steroids, I had made up my mind, this is it and I will
not go outside again unless it was to go to a doctor’s appointment. My doctor at that time was Dr. Gorniswky and when I started my overall outcome position. He faced me and stared dead into my eyes and said, ‘HOW DARE you give up on life’, then shouted at me and said with a firm voice, ‘then you should go back to school for physical therapy and interact with others.’ I was not quite sure how to handle my doctor’s disappointment, but I did consider Dr. Gorniswky’s‘recommendation to attend school, I remember my study in college was the arts. So, I got down on my knees at home and said to God if this is what you want me to endure, then the art world I will give my all, as long as I am able to inspire others not to give up on their dreams and yes, life is strange how things work out, but with strength and determination any career is possible. In resuming my art career in 2007 which was two years ago, I am proud to say, I have accomplished something in my wildest dreams, which can never be taken away from me in this life, that my stone sculpture which I created in April 2009 is now in the White House sitting on a desk inside the Oval Office called (UNITY) and I had a great time at the Pre-Oscar Show (2018) What a blessing and a dream come true!!!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you? Unfortunately, my art journey has not been a smooth road. I did not realize that some museum and galleries will take advantage of an upcoming artist. One museum broke 2 of my sculptures and they are unwilling to pay the cost of the damages. Another museum tried to steal my artwork. An art promoter stole my entrance fee and the entrance fee for approximately 500 other vendors to exhibit Also as you may know some museum and galleries overcharge to exhibit artwork. These incidents and obstacle, as well as others, have presented real struggles for me. So, as you know, we’re impressed with Sculptures by Stella – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others. I am the founder/artist of Sculptures by Stella. I create one of a kind stone sculptures and every stone sculptures are created completely by hands. Every stone sculpture created has some type of a circular movement with beautiful and bold colors which makes a perfect conversation piece for any office or home. This is what sets my stone sculptures apart from others.
I am very proud of my (unity) stone sculpture inside of the White House (2009) and my stone sculptures exhibited at the Pre-Oscar Show (2018). So, what’s next? Any big plans? My future plans are to have my stone sculptures featured in a movie, a commercial or a play. I would love to exhibit at a big museum or gallery with over 20 stone sculptures and inspire the next generation of artists. Contact Info: Website: sculptures by stella Phone: 310-502-2492 Email: stellaj1006@sbcglobal.net Facebook: sculptures by stella
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MARCH 2019 Valentine’s day is over and now it’s springtime. Springtime represents growth and harvest. It is also a season of clichés… birds singing, bees buzzing etc. All of this brings about an optimistic feeling, an overflow of happiness, leaving us to believe we can find and do the impossible… yes… find that true love. I started this year receiving an overflow of questions asking for my intuitive advice on the question of “should I make a Love Wish List”. I agree that making a list is good, but more importantly is you creating a smaller list with seven things you really want in a partner in which three of those have to be a deal breaker. In addition to this list here is my intuitive advice. 1. Be mindful of your choices, remembering to trust your intuition so you will know what is best for you. 2. Realize first that no one is perfect, 3. Never lower your standards or you won’t be happy Doing this will keep your focus on realistic expectations and on track for this Springtime Love! For Information about Ask Dr. Jai www.strategicladies.com or write her at drjacinta@strategicladies.com The act of Inclusion requires us to delight in differences and be resilient in love. Mindfuldr Check out Dr. Jai’s new novel Unspoken Ones- the missing link at book retailers near you
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The Los Angeles Rams Heroes to Angelenos Written by Prather Jackson Los Angeles went 23 years without a professional football team. The Rams arrived in Los Angeles 2 years ago and took us all the way to Super Bowl this year. The new home being constructed for the Rams, the Los Angeles Stadium, is going to provide the equivalent of a financial blood transfusion to the city of Inglewood. Jobs for people in the community. Commerce for the local businesses. Most importantly, the arrival of the Rams has united Angelenos, and reestablished Inglewood as a historically important part of Los Angeles. In 1991 I was hired by the Los Angeles Raiders to conduct the first professional sports research study for the L.A. Raiders. Based on information gleaned from my study corporate sponsors were able to identify the diverse demographics of Raider fans. I’m very aware of the incredible impact the Rams have on the multi-cultural community of Los Angeles. “The Athletic” has stated that the “New Rams and Chargers home is taking shape as ‘the very best stadium in the NFL.’” The Rams have given Los Angeles hope, and pulled us together. They’ve given us heroes like Quarterback Jared Goff and defensive guru Wade Phillips. Coach Sean McVay took us to the Super Bowl. He put us in position to take home the Super Bowl Ring -- that sounds like a Hero to me. We’re all sad we didn’t win the Super Bowl, but let’s focus on what we as a city did win: The L.A. Rams. We’ve got them, and they’ve got us! Enjoy our selection of special red carpet photos and behind-the-scenes coverage of the Grey Goose sponsored Shaquille O’Neal celebritypacked Super Bowl after parties. Until next season -- GO RAMS! 44 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
the Grey Goose sponsored Shaquille O’Neal celebrity packed Super Bowl after parties.
Tim tibow
Akon
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(L- R)Gabrielle and Allois, Christophe Choo, at BG Gallery booth, LA Art Show 2019 Allois works: “Lucy In the Sky with Diamonds”, “You can’t Vandalize My Soul”, “Sir Gustav VII”
Hollywood actress Alexis Kiley and Allois at bG Gallery booth, LA Art Show 2019 Allois works: “The Theater of Earth”, “You can’t Vandalize My Soul”, “Sir Gustav VII”
Alluring Artist Allois Beguiles at By Barbara Burke
O
LA Art Show
ne of LA’s most successful, sizzling, sensational surrealists, Allois, beguiled attendees at the 2019 LA Art Show in late January when she revealed her new, intriguing portrait series, Allois Noir, featuring “Maddy,” a coy creation celebrating the powers and mysteries of femininity. The pensive, yet playful piece invites intimacy, mystically mesmerizing viewers. Yet, as with many of Allois’ works, the subject holds something back. She fancifully flirts and flaunts, but does not reveal all - indeed any - of the cards she is playing. She’s holding some aces and collectors are off to the races trying to decipher delicious details in the intricate details of the painting as they seek to go along in the subject’s enchanting journey. “You cannot vandalize my soul,” The allegorical, accompanying annotation for the painting states. 46 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
“My name is Franscesca. I am a master of perfection. I am not quite human, but most humans cannot tell the difference and they either hate me dearly (those are called ladies) or worship me (those, of course, are men).” The race is on. All bets are off. What does the nuanced narrative mean? Ask those who try to interpret Allois’ works as they seek to untangle and interpret the magical, mythical message. Allois’ subjects enthusiastically embrace the ethereal. They entice, enthrall and excite. They both consciously and subliminally evoke emotions. Many of Allois’ works are sold to loyal clientele who faithfully await and anticipate as she prolifically paints. Collector Christopher Choo shared with Hollywood Weekly why he and his wife stretch beyond their usual artistic aesthetics to collect Allois’ works. They simply cannot wait to see her newest creations.
“My wife and I collect Old Masters from the Eighteenth Century,’ Choo said. “However, we love Allois’ art and find it captivating.” Art show attendee, Karen Bystedt, heartily agreed. “I find that Allois’ art is a bridge between the past and present,” She said. “I’m a lover of Sixteenth and Seventeenth Century art and crowns and I love her use of oil.” A tantalizing teaser – Bystedt confided that she and Allois will soon collaborate on The Lost Warhols – look for more news about this exciting project soon. “The characters that Allois brings out can relate to all of my inner emotions,” Collette Byrne said. “I feel like she is expressing me . . . I think that she is amazing.” Clare Grant also shared her excitement about Allois’ emotive and evocative works. “My husband and I feel in love with Allois,” She said. “Her pieces have an ethereal quality that mix a
dream element with the spiritual and I want to all own all her works because they really speak to us.” BG Art Gallerist, William Cross, chatted with Hollywood Weekly about Allois’ artistic force. “When someone like Allois can come from the subconscious, digs deep from her youth and creates chaotic beauty that is still true to her soul,” He said, “That’s what I look for in an artist.” Hollywood actress Alexis Kiley was extremely impressed with Allois’ exhibit. “The remarkable and gifted artist – Allois!” Kiley said. “During the LA ART SHOW 2019 befitting St. Judes Hospital - I walked and viewed beautiful art with my beautiful friend Pretam and there was not one modern painter that held my breath like the paintings of ALLOIS. How I await new paintings from Helen that are still held within her imagination awaiting their time for their grand arrival on canvas. If there are paintings in Heaven - surely these pieces will be there.” Many in attendance at the exhibit noted that sadly, Allois, who is an artist from Malibu, lost her home, her studio, and all of her paintings except those exhibited at the LA Art Show in the Woolsey Fire. “In addition to her incredible talent, Allois now symbolizes to me what it means to be resilient,” Steve Soboroff said. “She is committed to her works and celebrates a new start rising from the destruction.” The Woolsey fire has not only lit a fire deep within Allois’ soulful, creative energies and synergies, like a mythical Phoenix emerging from the flame-driven fury, it has spurred a surge in her sensational surrealist creativity. All of her loyal fans wait with anticipation as they wonder what she will paint next and what tales her fanciful spirits will spin.
Allois work “Maddy”
(L- R) Hollywood actors Clare Grant, Allois and Seth Green at BG Gallery booth, LA Art Show 2019 Allois works: “The Theater of Earth”, “You can’t Vandalize My Soul”, “Sir Gustav VII” HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 47
Hollywood
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The Man with the Golden Voice By Anthony Ewart
T
here will be endless biographies written about Mr. James Edward Ingram. But that’s not how you remember James Ingram. You remember him through the moments you spent with someone while his songs were playing. Almost a musical, mental snapchat moment immortalized in your soul and the soul of the person
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you experienced that beautiful moment with. James Ingram was the most altruistic singer I’ve ever heard. His voice lived for the song. It supported the melody. It gave life and meaning to the lyrics. James Ingram, the man, became the Supporting Actor -- he gave the spotlight to his voice, and made it Lead Actor. What an incredibly giving artist he was. It was all about the song. The story... That’s really what James Ingram
was. A great storyteller. He took us into tales of love and heartbreak that we all connected with. James Ingram could give confidence to a lovesick, junior high school student. He could make a husband married 30 years look at his wife as if he was seeing her for the first time. That was the magic of James Ingram. We believed him and the beautiful lyrics he chose to share with us, many of which he wrote himself.
When thinking about the sincerity and integrity James Ingram brought as an artist, it brings to mind another famous “James” who captured the trust and heart of America. James Maitland Stewart. You may know him better as “Jimmy Stewart.” One of the most loved Stars in Hollywood, Jimmy Stewart always put his art first. He inhabited the characters he played with sincerity and believability. And we believed him.
James Ingram sang a variety of songs in different styles and tempos and rhythms, but for me, and I know many others, his love songs have imprinted themselves in the atoms of my cells. Hearing his song, by chance, on a radio, through sheer synchronicity, is the Universe comforting me with love. All artists want to leave a legacy of their work behind. James Ingram has left a body of work that will be enjoyed by his fans and students of music forever. And I don’t say
that word lightly. But the truly lasting legacy of James Ingram is the ripple effect the beauty of his voice will have on us for the rest of our lives. His tone. The vibrations of his sound. That feeling of love and happiness. That’s what will live on. That is the ripple effect of James Ingram. And what a beautiful ocean of sound he gave us.
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Books That Make You… Find Love By Bree Swider
Looking for love in all the right places? Our Valentine’s Day choices of helpful guides and romantic books can help your heart open as you embark on your journey. Learn how to nurture your relationships while becoming a person who can accept and appreciate love. Celebrate romance with these passionate stories. Read about love that is eternal, patriotic, funny, spiritual, and more. Immerse yourself in these love stories and read to your heart’s content.
IGHT SPOTLOK BO
Choose Love Love is a wonderfully complicated and extraordinary human experience. If you wonder why you’re missing out on love in your relationships, you need to check out I Choose Love: A Journey From Fear To Love by author A.G. Billig. “Love and fear cannot coexist in one human heart. Hence, choose love. It is the safest place to be,” Billig notes. I Choose Love contains six techniques that help you experience true love and create the life you want. Start making the right choices to find love now. Be the kind of person other people admire and fall in love with. Say “I Choose Love” loud and clear, and start reading. A.G. Billig is a fiction and non-fiction author on a mission to spread love around the world through storytelling. Nature, dancing, travels, spirituality, and connecting with people are her permanent sources of inspiration and joy. In this book, she shares her secrets to attracting love – designed for you to utilize.
“Love and fear cannot coexist in one human heart. Hence, choose love. It is the safest place to be,” A.G. Billig
For the Love of America
Love for home, lifestyle and country are deeply engrained in our hearts and minds, almost from birth.. Although you may not always love the U.S. government, the protection and security it brings us provides the way of life to which we have become accustomed and hold dear. That is, until things spiral out of control. Last Call by Debra Tash is a dystopian future novel in which the USA is taken over by a totalitarian dictatorship under the ruse of Homeland Security. America becomes a shell of its former self as its citizens are forced out of their homes and starved. If you treasure our inalienable rights — life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness — you’ll fall in love with Last Call.
Love to Laugh
Find humor in love with the romantic comedy novel, Next Therapist Please, by Laurie Finkelstein. This mustread, heart-warming story tells the struggle of a woman who experiences loss and mental illness but finds the strength to overcome through love. While her paintings are showcased at a chic art show, Janie’s heart skips a beat as she sees her former, ever handsome therapist. She recounts the tragic loss of her family and painful self-recovery as he lends a sympathetic ear. This book is an entertaining Rom-Com that uses humor and wit to embrace the stigma of mental illness. Laughter is the best medicine. You’ll love reading Next Therapist Please.
Love is Eternal
Dreaming of Love
The love shared within a tightknit family is powerful. The Engine Woman’s Light by Laurel Ann Hill explores the ancestral bond in this world and the next. The novel opens with the plight of a grandmother in an attempt to save her first granddaughter.
Love can be a ticking clock as time passes and patience wane. In this new Nicholas Sparks novel, Every Breath, Hope Anderson is acutely aware of her biological clock. Her loyalty to her current boyfriend has lasted six years. Now, at the age of 36, she must reevaluate her life decisions.
Laurel Ann Hill believes that love is eternal. It can be felt throughout time and beyond understanding, also through the pages of the book. The Engine Woman’s Light delves into seemingly painful topics: rape, child abandonment, murder, and death. Yet the novel also addresses love, loyalty, family, and forgiveness.
Every Breath explores heartbreaking choices and hopeful possibilities.
Discover a love deep enough to be felt beyond the grave with The Engine Woman’s Light.
A Love That Heals
Do you sometimes wish you could heal your loved ones? From a minor cold to serious injury, seeing our loved ones in pain is heart-wrenching. Micheal Priv’s You Are A Psychic, The Healer’s Handbook helps readers develop extrasensory abilities. With this guide, readers learn to locate anybody, anywhere with their minds, then use specific techniques to actually heal various organs and functions in the body.
Love Yourself
Spiritual Compass: Practical Strategies for When You Feel Lost, Alone and God Seems Far Away by Sue Hannibal seeks to bring wellness to one and all. Depression triggered by divorce, separation and the fear of abandonment is discussed and remedied in this spiritual guidebook. In this guide, 38 channeled essays feature practical advice and wisdom to help you, with topics ranging from finding your life path to how to deal with parting from your lover.
Sounds impossible? Priv is an advocate that miracles are possible, but only if we are open to discovering our true potential. You can help loved ones, friends, family or even complete strangers with your psychic abilities.
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