Some of the obvious purported culprits of back pain are weak muscles, stress, sedentary lives, being overweight, and age. However, there are some very little reported theories and solutions on back pain and I want to share this information with my readers because I believe it's insightful.

Until the 20th Century, debilitating back pain was not common in our society, but today it's extremely prevalent.

One of the reasons for this is that starting in the 1920s, the fashion industry began showing models with their pelvises and necks thrusted forward, and hunched or with rounded shoulders. Basically, it became fashionable to slouch. Furniture then started being designed to be "more comfortable," thus allowing for poor posture habits to develop and set in.

But if you were to visit a rural village in say Portugal or Africa today, you'd see that these poor posture transformations never took place, and you'd get a sense of what healthy posture looks like.

- The pelvis is tipped forward or anteverted (An easy way to see this is to imagine a belt line and notice that it angles downward toward the front).

- The shoulders are positioned posteriorly relative to the torso, with the result that the arms align with the back of the torso.

- The front contour of the torso is dome-like and smooth. The chest is full with a raised sternum as a result of the chest expanding with every breath.

- The chin, and an imaginary line joining the middle of the ear and the tip of the nose, angle downward as a result of a relaxed and elongated cervical spine.

- The buttocks muscles are well developed because they are in position of mechanical advantage and are used in walking.

What's happened to us here in the USA and other westernized countries is that modern life, such as computer use, molds the spine into an S or C shape. The key is to start doing things that will help to re-shape your back into its natural J shape, with a focus on your backside. You want to sit tall and stand tall!

So what's the ancient secret to unlocking the cure?

Step 1. Turn every step into a rep, squeeze your Glutes (Buttocks) as you walk to strengthen them constantly.

Step 2. Create that natural J shape in your spine by wedging your pelvis back when you sit. (Don't tuck your pelvis).

Step 3. Support your mid back (not your lower back) in the car with a cushion or cloth.

If you're looking for more detailed lessons and instructions on understanding posture and how to reduce or cure your back pain, I'd suggest a book from Esther Gokhale that I've read, and based and sourced this article on, called "8-Steps to a Pain Free Back."

Cheers,

Jack Witt, MS, CPT
Fitness and Health Coach
"Get Fit with Witt"
Individuals / Groups / Corporate
310.562.5629 Cell / 818.760.3891 Main
www.getfitwithWitt.com 
https://twitter.com/GetfitwithWitt  

* New Book "From Passion to Purpose"

* Hike the Holy Land: Join me March 28 - April 5, 2016

The lithe yet toned physiques of ballerina dancers like Misty Copeland have been a source of fitness inspiration for many years, but never before has a method been able to deliver those inspired results to mere mortals. That is until Pure Barre, a 55-minute isometric barre workout that promises to "lift, tone and burn" and actually delivers - a fact that is shown by this particular brand of barre. The popularity of Pure Barre has grown exponentially within the last 15 years with more than 300 studios in 42 states. The latest addition to this addictive network of fitness boutiques is Pure Barre North Hollywood.

To celebrate the grand opening and give everyone a chance to experience this game-changing workout, classes from Friday, July 31 through Sunday, August 2 will be FREE! Space is limited and filling up fast, so visit http://purebarre.com/ca-northhollywood/ or call (818) 942-7098 for a complimentary introductory class and Pre-Opening membership specials.



Pure Barre North Hollywood is one of the few fitness facilities that live up to the hype of “instant results,” and it is guaranteed that after the first class you will feel your body start to change. The head-to-toe workout will always be different for every person, but everybody in every class will improve their body for the better. The opening of Pure Barre North Hollywood on July 31 will make it possible for Angelenos to achieve the sculpting, toning and blissful burn they crave in a positive, inspiring environment that has celebrities like Zooey Deschanel, Tika Sumpter, Anna Kendrick, and supermodel Erin Heatherton shaking in their socks.

Why is Pure Barre so popular? It has boiled down the essence of balletic movement to a quick, consistently challenging 55 minutes. Don’t let the 3lb weights and light resistance bands fool you, a single 55-minute session will have even the fiercest fitness lovers sweating, shaking and burning their way to a stronger body and mind. The efficiency is ideal for fitting serious fitness into busy schedules, and the instant mental boost and fast physical results that Pure Barre delivers is what keeps people coming back. Many Pure Barre lovers say the workout is so intense and the environment so uplifting that they get a meditation-like zen feeling from the experience. If you’re going to take one hour out of your day to do something for yourself, Pure Barre North Hollywood is where you need to be.

Pure Barre North Hollywood classes are led by trained dancers who live the fitness level you want to achieve and are excited to help you get there. Pure Barre North Hollywood owner Brittany Egbert and instructors Jenna, Dayna, Will, Vanessa, Katy and Linnea are each talented performers in their own right and use the Pure Barre method personally for longevity and poise. They depend on their fitness for a living and passionately believe in Pure Barre because they use the technique themselves.

"I do not believe that going through the motions of going to the gym is worth the membership. However, if anyone does just 3 sessions a week at Pure Barre any result is achievable no matter where you are coming from or where you're going," said Egbert.

Pure Barre North Hollywood is located at 4929 Lankershim Boulevard, Unit D in North Hollywood, CA. For more information email northhollywood@purebarre.com or call (818) 942-7098.

**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood's NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. Pure Barre North Hollywood opens in L.A.’s NoHo Arts District in North Hollywood on the official NoHo Arts District Guide; www.nohoartsdistrict.com Pure Barre North Hollywood, ballet body, ballet barre, fitness, noho fitness classes, noho gyms, NoHo , [north hollywood plays], noho arts district, noho plays, noho calendar, north hollywood calendar, noho events, north hollywood events, [ los angeles theatre district]  

www.Gallery800.com

Gallery 800 showcases Guild members’ personal art in a series of shows throughout the year. These talented artists are leading art department professionals, who, through a combination of observation, passion and imagination bring the writer's words and the director's vision to life in television and film. When not working as integral creative members of the entertainment community, they contribute to the fine art scene with their personal artwork.

Since Gallery 800 opened its doors in March 2009, more than 600 ADG members have shown their artwork in the ongoing exhibitions.

Representing Gallery 800 are Curator Denis Olsen and Manager Debbie Patton.

Gallery 800 (located at 5108 Lankershim Blvd. at the Historic Lankershim Arts Center in the heart of North Hollywood) is open Thursday through Saturday from 2pm to 8pm and Sunday from 2pm to 6pm. For questions about the gallery or artwork, contact (818) 763-8052 or gallery800@gmail.

Future Exhibits Include (subject to change):
• Still Life & Storytelling (Sept. 12– Oct. 17)
• Art Unites 9 (Nov. 7 – Dec. 12) 

About the Art Directors Guild:

The Art Directors Guild (IATSE Local 800) represents nearly 2,000 members who work throughout the United States, Canada and the rest of the world in film, television and theater as Production Designers, Art Directors, Assistant Art Directors; Scenic, Title and Graphic Artists; Illustrators and Matte Artists; and Set Designers and Model Makers. Established in 1937, the ADG’s ongoing activities include a Film Society; an annual Awards Banquet, a creative/technology community (5D: The Future of Immersive Design); a bimonthly craft magazine (Perspective); and extensive technology-training programs, figure drawing and other creative workshops and year-round Gallery 800 art exhibitions. The Guild’s Online Directory/Website Resource is at http://www.adg.org.

Representing Gallery 800 are Curator Denis Olsen and Manager Debbie Patton. Gallery 800’s mission is to promote the works of talented entertainment industry professionals, in an intimate venue, on a personal level. Gallery 800 is located at 5108 Lankershim Blvd. at the Historic Lankershim Arts Center in the heart of NoHo.

Gallery 800 Hours:

Thursday - Saturday 2:00-8:00 pm
Sunday 2:00-6:00 pm
For more information, please visit the Gallery 800 website at www.Gallery800.com 
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/gallery800
Twitter: @ADG800

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose a bin on trash day.

PAPER
Recycle it if:
it is clean and dry, including: computer paper, wrapping paper, junk mail, file folders, sticky notes, envelopes (even the ones with plastic windows are okay)

Trash it if:
it is contaminated with any oil (including food waste)

CARDBOARD
Recycle it if:
it is clean and dry, including: cereal boxes, shipping boxes (be sure to break these down), paper towl and toilet rolls, shoe boxes

Trash it if:
it is contaminated with any oil or food waste - like a pizza box

FOOD AND LIQUID CARTONS
Recycle it if:
it is clean and dry, including: juice and milk cartons, broth and soup cartons, boxed wine, cream and coffee creamer cartons, and egg substitute cartons

Trash it if:
all food/liquid cartons should be okay to recycle as long as they are cleaned throroughly first.

METAL
Recycle it if:
it is aluminum, tin, metal, and bi-metal, such as soda and juice cans, soup and vegetables cans, pet food cans, pie tins, clean aluminum foil or tin foil, empty paint and aerosol cans (you need to remove the plastic caps), and wire hangers. All metals items should be rinsed if possible.

Trash it if:
it is part of an appliance or battery (check this list for how to dispose) or a partially filled aerosol container. Kitchen utensils and lawn furniture also should not be recycled.

GLASS
Recycle it if:
it is a clean food or liquid container including soda bottles, wine and beer bottles, sauce and pickle jars. Broken bottles are okay if not listed in the items below.

Trash it if:
it is broken window or mirror glass, broken auto glass, broken light bulbs or fluorescent lights, or broken ceramics

PLASTIC
Recycle it if:
is a clean plastic numbered 1-7 on the bottom of the container, including soda and juice bottles, detergent and bleach bottles, shampoo and lotion bottles, mouthwash bottles, dishwashing liquid bottles, milk jugs, margarine and yogurt tubs, plastic planters, food and blister packaging, rigid clamshell packaging.

These items are not marked with a number, but are also recyclable:

Plastic coat hangers, non-electric plastic toys, plastic swimming pools, & plastic laundry baskets

Plastic Bags such as grocery bags and dry cleaner bags, and all clean film plastic bags are also good to be in the blue bin.

All Clean Polystyrene (STYROFOAM™) including cups, take out containers, egg shell cartons, block
packaging, and clamshell packaging.

Trash it if:
it is a container for cleaning fluid, plastic hygienic item, electric or battery operated toy, mini blinds, kitchen utensil, lawn furniture, garden hose, rubber tire, construction materials, including asphalt or concrete, wood and wood products. Check below, as many of these items fall under the Harzardous Materials category.

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
should never be recycled. This includes many household items, such as used motor oil and filters, paint and solvents, electronic waste such as computers, cell phones and televisions, household cleaning products and pool cleaners, car and household batteries, fluorescent tubes and bulbs, home generated Sharps such as needles and lancets, unused medicine (except controlled substances). All of the above items can be dropped off at a S.A.F.E. Center (check here for locations).

For a full recyclable items breakdown, visit the Los Angeles City Sanitation website here.

Because the clothes tend to be simpler and subdued this collection tends to stay on the shelves the longest which is very important for retailers meaning they draw the biggest annual revenue of their annual budget.

So what’s trending this off-season? And where are people going for vacation?

Dennis Basso

Roberto Cavalli

Nina Ricci

Roberto Cavalli

Vest: Wilfred for Aritzia
Dress: Maria Conejo

You might want to pack an extra shopping only suitcase for this one!

San Francisco
Best known as a “giant outdoor shopping mall” the Northern California city provides visitors with plenty of vintage shopping and farmers markets. Perfect for someone trying to do a little shopping outside of mall stores.

London
There is almost everything for everyone in London, whether you’re a bargain hunter or the ultimate luxury shopper…and of course there is Harrods.

Milan
As the “fashion capital of the world” is hard to explain why Milan is one of the top shopping and vacation destinations. Home to some of the top names in fashion like Versace and Armani everyone in Milan is probably 5 years ahead in fashion than anyone in the world! But don’t be intimidated.

Like many of our readers, I have a love and respect for all animals - domestic and wild. Killing an animal for sport in my personal opinion is murder.  I have just returned from a wonderful trip to South Africa where I visited several animal reserves where I saw an array of wild animals, including lions in their natural habitat. The majority of people in the world understand the importance of protecting innocent children. Let’s include innocent animals. Artists and arts lovers, please take a stand and sign this petition. Let’s use Cecil the Lion’s memory as a call to action to stop this useless killing.

Nancy Bianconi
Publisher
www.nohoartsdistrict.com

From the folks at Avaaz.org - Thank you.

This campaign is on fire! We're at 50k signers in the US in half a day, but Cecil's story has touched millions -- Add your name, forward this to everyone, or share now on Facebook & Twitter -- let's to get to 100,000 before we take our demand to the US Fish & Wildlife Service's doorstep.

Dear friends,

A 13-year old lion named Cecil was just lured from a park in Zimbabwe where he lived under legal protection, shot with a crossbow and rifle, then beheaded and skinned. The hunter who paid over $50,000 for the kill is a dentist from Minnesota.

Experts say lions could be extinct in the wild in our lifetime, and the US is partly to blame. The number of lion trophies imported by American hunters has skyrocketed, doubling between 1999 and 2008, and there are no sanctions in the US for hunters like the dentist who killed Cecil, because lions aren't listed under the Endangered Species Act despite a recent government recommendation.

 

Right now, the Fish and Wildlife Service is considering a petition to list lions as endangered, and a massive outcry from across the country could speed up the process and start saving lions now. Sign now and recruit others to join on Facebook, Twitter, and everywhere else:


SIGN THE PETITION>>

Can you imagine the African savannah completely devoid of lions? It's a depressing thought, but defending lions like Cecil also isn't even just about altruism; Cecil was a major tourist attraction at Hwange National Park, and a few days of his photo being taken by tourists was more lucrative for Zimbabwe than the one-off price paid for his head. Countless other tourism jobs across southern and East Africa depend on the existence of these incredible animals.

Listing the African lion under the Endangered Species Act wouldn't immediately create a ban on American hunters traveling to Africa to hunt lions, but it would establish a stringent new permitting process, whereby any hunting could only happen in closely monitored programs that also support lion conservation. It's the first step toward any real, ambitious plan to save the world's lions, and frankly it's outrageous that it hasn't happened already.

It's past time we respond to this dramatic scenario with dramatic action, starting by listing lions as endangered. If everybody also finds one friend to join them, we can double the strength of our demand. Sign here and let's make sure Cecil's death wasn't in vain:

SIGN THE PETITION>>

Scientists warn that we're living in an era known as the sixth extinction, an acceleration of habitat and species loss from urbanization, climate change, and aggressive hunting. Large mammals like lions are some of the most vulnerable; their rates of reproduction lag far behind the rate they're being hunted and poached. But our movement is accelerating too, and every day Avaaz members worldwide are propelling hopeful and ambitious policies forward to build the world we love, a world where African lions continue to roam.

With roaring hope,
Joseph, Rewan, Mia, Andrew and the whole Avaaz team

More information:

Cecil the lion's killer revealed as American dentist


Zimbabwe's 'iconic' lion Cecil killed by hunter


African Lions Face Extinction by 2050, Could Gain Endangered Species Act Protection


African lion (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)


Scientists Warn ‘Sixth Extinction’ May Be Underway

Avaaz.org is a 41-million-person global campaign network that works to ensure that the views and values of the world's people shape global decision-making. ("Avaaz" means "voice" or "song" in many languages.) Avaaz members live in every nation of the world; our team is spread across 18 countries on 6 continents and operates in 17 languages.



**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood's NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo.

Every Thursday we send out our NoHo e-News. Do you get it? It takes 30 seconds. Make sure you sign up, it’s FREE. Sign up HERE>>

This issue of NoHo e-News is about what's going on in North Hollywood and a selection of some theatre shows. But we have a ton of them. Did you know that the NoHo Arts District has the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City? Just check out the NoHo Arts District Theatre Guide>>

Here's a glimpse at what's going on in North Hollywood...ENJOY NOHO!



**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood's NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo.

I’m back at the Whitefire Theatre again, and not sorry to be here!

This is such a lovely venue and truly a perfect stage for a one man show, which is what Father, Son &Holy Coach is.

The one man being John Posey, who wrote the play and performs it. This play’s origins are from 1993 when it was first performed in Santa Monica to rave reviews. John then took the show on tour around the US, even performing in Australia.

Cut to the present and a slightly older John Posey revisits the role that must be so close to his heart, with help from his two sons, Tyler Posey (Teen Wolf) and Jesse Posey, an accomplished sportsman turned actor as Producers and a long time collaborator the celebrated actor, producer and acting coach Michael Laskin (micheallaskinstudion.com), in his first directorial credit….a beautifully and tenderly directed piece.

The story is a classical one. A father, unable to achieve his own dreams relentlessly pushes his son to fulfill them for him, regardless of wether they hold the same importance to him. Ed Sanford, a Georgia boy, born and bred in Tupelo County who’s aspirations to play state level football where never realized, focuses his full attention on his son, John, to make it to the state football team and ultimately to the NFL.

This is a touching, warm and often hilarious portrait of a fondly remembered southern town who’s love of football is all encompassing. John Posey plays several roles including both the father and the son and a slew of richly drawn and lovingly portrayed Tupelo County residents and football worshipers.

For one actor to hold the stage for an entire play is task enough for most, but this play, with its beautifully written storytelling prose and highly physical maneuvers, as well as the challenge of reinventing these strange and wonderful characters, demands skills of almost mythical proportions.

John Posey is clearly gifted by the gods.

He captivates the audience with his truly touching and compelling performance. He manages somehow to transport us all back to Tupelo County, to watch the lives of the residents and a father and son unfurl. The audience act as spellbound witnesses to the triumphs and the failures and the bonds made and broken.

This is a very familiar story of course. But told to us with such love and with such a magical creative force that we rediscover it, funny and poignant and profound as it is. All neatly wrapped in the history of so many American lives.

I urge you to go and see this remarkable play. If you can, go with a group of friends or family, go with people that you are close to.

It’s a beautiful opportunity to share familiar moments with those we care about. I know I wept with joy for my father even though I never played football and neither did he.

Father, Son & Holy Coach is playing on Fridays at 8pm and Sundays at 3pm through August 30th.

The Whitefire Theater
13500 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

http://holycoach.brownpapertickets.com

LOMBARDI

By Eric Simonson

With the end of its 41st season, The Group Rep at The Lonny Chapman Theatre brings us a winner!!! LOMBARDI by Eric Simonson based on the book When Pride Still Mattered: A Life of Vince Lombardi by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author David Maraniss, and directed by the phenomenal Gregg T. Daniel.

It’s 1958 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, home to Cheese Heads and the Green Bay Packers, and remembering Schlitz and Miller High Life Beer, the “Champagne of Beers”. Green Bay is ALL about football, and the Packers have a dismal winning record. They recruit Vince Lombardi (Bert Emmett) from the New York Giants to move to Green Bay, and the rest is history.

Bert Emmett as Lombardi photo by Doug Engalla

The gruff, take no prisoners Lombardi sets out to make the Packers winners calling the game “A game for madmen”.

In 1958, the Green Bay Packers were owned communally by the town of Green Bay, and it was a very different time in football. And, you have to remember… This was a time of cocktails to relax at the end of a hard day, and wives greeting their husbands at the door dressed in pretty little frocks. A young reporter from Look Magazine, Michael McCormick (Troy Whitaker), has been assigned to write an article on Vince Lombardi, the guy everyone is talking about, and he comes to stay at the Lombardi home for a week to get the “real” story. Greeted by Vince’s wife, Marie Lombardi (Julia Silverman) who is just as tough as Vince, Michael has the chance to see what others don’t. Vince is a man on a mission to make the Packers the “Yankees of professional football”. Vince is aggressive, demanding, and taking every opportunity for a drink, and Marie knows exactly how to handle him. His players on the team Dave Robinson (Steve West), Paul Hornung (Ian Stanley) and Jim Taylor (Christopher Hawthorn) show us internal team dynamics, and treat us with football plays on stage. You get a real sense of the game of football.

Julia Silverman Bert Emmett Troy Whitaker photo Doug Engalla

LOMBARDI has a superb cast.

Bert Emmett is sensational as Vince Lombardi, and Troy Whitaker and Julia Silverman (as usual) give us fantastic performances. Steve West, Ian Stanley and Christopher Hawthorn round out a wonderful cast. As usual Gregg T. Daniel’s direction gets us thoroughly involved in the play. I have to give special mention to Angela M. Eads, whose Costume Design brought 1960’s couture to Marie Lombardi. What fabulous and feminine clothes they had back then!!! The usual ensemble of wonderful people contributed to this play. Chris Winfield Set Design, J. Kent Inasy Lighting Design, Steve Shaw Sound Design, and a special shout out to Glenda Morgan Brown’s Dialect Coaching.

“Pride makes us winners”, as Vince would say. The Group Rep and Gregg T. Daniel should have great pride in LOMBARDI. You will want to see this play.

It is a WINNER.

Be sure to stay tuned for the Group Rep’s 42nd Season. It looks like another winner.

Enjoy!!!!!!!!!

Cast: Bert Emmett, Christopher Hawthorn, Julia Silverman, Ian Stanley, Steven West and Troy Whitaker.
Director: Gregg T. Daniel
Producer For the Group Rep: Drina Durazo
Assistant to the Director: Haley Miller
Assistant Director: Mikel Parraga
Set Design: Chris Winfield
Lighting Design: J. Kent Inasy
Costume Design: Angela M. Eads
Sound Design: Steve Shaw
Videographer: Christian Ackerman
Dialect Coach: Glenda Morgan Brown
Public Relations: Nora Feldman
Graphic Design: Doug Haverty + Art & Soul Design
Program: Drina Durazo

The Lonny Chapman Theatre
10900 Burbank Blvd
North Hollywood, CA 91601

Buy Tickets:
www.thegrouprep.com or (818) 763-5990

Appropriate for: Ages 12+

Plays:
July 24 - September 6, 2015
Fridays/Saturdays at 8:00 pm; Sunday Matinees at 2:00 pm
Talk-back Sundays: August 9th & August 23rd after 2:00 pm matinee.

General Admission
$25; Seniors-Students $20; Groups 10+ $15

Parking:
Please allow 15 minutes. Free street parking on Burbank Blvd. and on Cleon Ave. just west of the theater building.

Seats 90 people. AC/Heat. Wheelchair accessible.

Our host had asked us to consider what we could let go of that no longer served us, to think about what was cluttering up our lives, and, if we wanted to, go through our clothing and let go of what we no longer needed. BAM! That really resonated with me and I’ve been looking at the impact of clutter ever since.

For me, clutter is one of the greatest thieves of clarity, focus, energy, and productivity - and it sneaks up on me.

My desire for simplicity and my well honed skills as a consumer battle each other and often times clutter becomes the spoils of that war.

Have you ever noticed how much easier it is to get things done and think clearly when your environment is free of clutter? When you walk into an office or someone’s home where things are in order how you feel possibility, spaciousness, and free? I do.

And clearing the excess in life isn’t only about getting rid of stuff; it’s about being willing to let go of the reasons why you hang on to stuff to begin with. Like:

• We think it’ll be useful to us in the future.
• Hanging on the dream or the memory it symbolizes.
• Thinking we may “need “ it someday.
• We spent a lot of money on it.
• We identify with the possession and our self-image and worth are in them.

I for one have been giving my possessions too much power. Most of them aren’t making me happier, they don’t really make me more secure, and none of them really contain my memories, I do. I want things, don’t get me wrong, but what if I just kept what I REALLY loved and what brought beauty into my life around me? Only 20 percent of the clothes in the average person’s closet are worn on a regular basis, according to the chief design officer for California Closets, interviewed in The Wall Street Journal. Just cleaning out our closets alone could free us up and allow someone else to possibly get use out of the other 80 percent!

If you look at household clutter from a feng shui perspective, as author Tisha Morris does, Morris, who penned Feng Shui Your Life: The Quick Guide to Decluttering Your Home and Renewing Your Life(Turner, 2011), asserts that our homes mirror our emotional state.

“[Clutter] is just stagnant energy,” she says. “Where there’s clutter in your home, there will be clutter in [you] — either physically, mentally or emotionally.

Letting go of things that no longer serve us is one of the healthiest things we can do for our mind, body and soul. Clearing out clutter helps our creativity, energy, health and clarity and I can use that for growing my career, time with friends instead of endless re-organizing, and exploring my art.

If de cluttering your world is of interest to you, check out this lovely book by Marie Kondo who encourages us to only keep things that “spark joy”:
http://tidyingup.com/

Or this Ted Talk from Graham Hill about having less stuff and more happiness:
https://www.ted.com/talks/graham_hill_less_stuff_more_happiness?language=en

See you on set,

Jessie

A brief prologue set in 1989 introduces Michael Douglas as a visionary scientist who leaves SHIELD after he realizes they’re trying to duplicate his prototype—namely a suit that can shrink people (as well as restore them to their former size—among other more innocuous qualities). Douglas suspects others want to utilize it for more nefarious pursuits. Fast forward to the present with Paul Rudd is a recently paroled thief trying to make good for the sake of his daughter (we haven’t seen that plot thread before). Douglas, who has been ousted from his own firm by his daughter (Evangeline Lilly) and his former protégé (Corey Stoll), persuades Rudd to break into his own former company in order to steal the Yellowjacket—a new shrinking suit devised by Stoll. This Yellowjacket is close to being perfected and sold to the highest bidder , which in the Marvel universe is usually Hydra. Assisted by Douglas’ wary daughter Lilly, Rudd trains hard (though not without pitfalls),“ants” up, and evolves into a hero to both men and ants.

As opposed to the overstuffed recent Marvel productions, Antman has a loose feel to it, with time for some quirky comic interludes, courtesy of a finished script boasting no less than four writers, including Rudd, Adam McKay, Edgar Wright and Joe Cornish. There are some serious and would-be touching moments to be sure, but they’re knowingly undercut with some humor, preventing these moments from becoming cloying. The action scenes are generally well-done, especially the first time an unsuspecting Rudd makes use of the ant suit, and the climactic sequence depicting the “heist” is both tense and humorous (with Rudd’s other allies such as Michael Pena coming through), with the fate of the world taking place on a child’s train set.

Corey Stoll is a good villain, not your usual diabolical sort, but a fellow who is past seeking the approval of his mentor/father figure Douglas and instead wants to show how far he has surpassed him. Douglas and Lilly provide good support (though there could be more sparks between Lilly and Rudd), Bobby Cannavale does well in a limited role as a cop who is also on the verge of marrying Rudd’s ex-wife, while Rudd is likable and engaging as the newest, albeit quite reluctant Marvel hero.

One hopes he will retain his appeal and humor in the inevitable sequel.

I wasn’t familiar with Amy Schumer’s comedy prior to seeing Trainwreck, but if the movie, which she scripted is any indication, I may make more of an effort in the future. Schumer is Amy, a hard-living, hard-drinking reporter who makes it her life’s mission to live up to her father’s (Colin Quinn) maxim that monogamy never works. She has a sister Kim (Brie Larson) with a husband and a stepson—and another on the way. Amy also has a muscleman boyfriend (John Cena—with a great scene where he tries to “talk dirty”) and the requisite best friend Nikki (Vanessa Mayer), with whom she works at the men’s magazine S’nuff. After Amy is forced by her boss (Tilda Swinton) to interview a renowned sports doctor (Bill Hader), she is surprised by how much she finds herself falling for him—causing her to rethink her formerly hedonistic philosophy even while her impulse toward self-destruction threatens to take over.

Trainwreck has many of the qualities of your basic romantic comedy, which may surprise (or concern) some viewers, given Schumer’s success with Inside Amy Schumer; it also retains many aspects of the typical Judd Apatow comedy, including plenty of lewd, rude behavior and a tendency toward overstaying its welcome. Yet there are many things I enjoyed about Trainwreck. Amy Schumer is an attractive, engaging screen presence, not afraid to make a fool of herself, yet capable of moving you (as is in her speech about her father late in the film). What I really liked about her script, and Apatow’s direction, is the generosity toward her fellow actors. Hader is terrific as Amy’s new love interest, earnest, devoted and occasionally conflicted; Colin Quinn gets a number of good scenes as Amy’s irascible, crude father (nice to see Norman Lloyd as Quinn’s old friend. Amy’s comrades at S’nuff also have some moments to shine, especially Tilda Swinton and Randall Park. And who would have thought LeBron James would come thisclose to stealing a movie, playing himself as a wealthy, vain sports figure who will dicker over the bill and get a little peevish in friendly one on one’s. He is also Doc Hader’s good friend and quite concerned about Amy’s intentions toward the good doctor. There are some other inspired guest bits, notably from Daniel Radcliffe, Marv Albert, Matthew Broderick, and Amari Stoudemire, and an ending that feels mostly right, as it follows the conventions of romantic comedies while adding a little spin—no less than what might expect from the talented Schumer.

Mr. Holmes reunites Sir Ian McKellen with his Gods and Monsters director Bill Condon for another elegiac study of a twilight figure, this time a 93 year old Sherlock Holmes, living in a farmhouse with his housekeeper (Laura Linney) and her son Roger. Holmes has just returned from Japan, circa 1947; his memory has been failing, he’s some thirty years removed from his last case—and anxious to remember the details of that case which led to his retirement from detection. Holmes possesses a faded picture of a lovely young woman, some faint memories, and some “prickly ash” that he acquired in Hiroshima to help jumpstart his memory. The game is afoot indeed, only slowed by the encroachment of age.
While neither the mystery at the center of the film nor the film itself is a major work (too much emphasis on bees and the boy), Mr. Holmes succeeds as a meditation on mortality, choices and consequences--and because of McKellen’s masterful portrayal of Holmes as a man railing against infirmity. He is equally convincing as the ninety-plus Holmes and in flashbacks as the aging detective who discovers that all his skill with clues can’t lead him to master the mysteries of the human heart.

Off Book is a play within a play within a play.

The actors are playing actors on the opening night of their new play. They are all nervous, excited and overwrought, understandably, and when you throw into the mix the lead actor texting the director that he is on a plane to Hawaii to shoot a film and is quitting the show and the writer of the show is also producing the show and the director of the show has cast his sister in one of the lead roles and they are both freaking out about it and an extremely highly strung writer and you have a rich recipe for disaster and hilarity.

And ‘Off Book’ is hilarious…and that’s just the first act!

The plot careens from actors crushing on each other, and the usual pre-show shenanigans to the a feverish attempt to avert disaster by recasting the lead role.

The truly original twist is that at the end of act one, when the cast of the play grapples with who among them is ready, willing or even able to assume the role the hapless romantic lead actor has left behind, the audience, that is us, is given the chance to actually vote on which of the three remaining candidates, the director, the neurotic writer or the stage director with a photographic memory and a terrible case of stage fright, will step into the vacated leading man’s shoes and save the day!

I cast my vote with just as much enthusiasm as the rest of the audience and held my breath to discover wether who I chose would win the day…

They didn’t, and to keep things honest I will never disclose who I chose, suffice it to say that a little incest never hurt anyone, at least in a play that is!

This terrifically funny premise offers the audience, and the actors, an opportunity to experience something truly unique. Each night could be a totally new interpretation of the same exact play.

The second and third acts are the play within this play and the transformation we see from the actors already playing roles to playing new roles as the characters they have already established with us is more than a little head spinning…but in the good way.

The writer Khai Dattoli has given us a rare treat in the theatre and something unexpected, strange and wonderful, a surprise ending. Each of the actors in this play are superb, and so committed to the epic panic and pandemonium that I really was on the edge of my seat wondering if they could pull it off.

But pull it off they did…brilliantly.

Kudos to the director Paul McGee who has pulled together a group of talented and brave actors willing to put themselves on the spot every night and at the mercy of the fates.

This is a fun and thrilling show, and well worth your time. I really had a wonderful evening, and I thoroughly recommend it to everyone!

Off Book is playing at The Secret Rose Theatre, 11246 Magnolia Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601.
It plays through August 22nd, Fridays and Saturdays at 7.30pm and Sundays at 2pm.

For more information and tickets go to www.fallingapplesproductions.com

Cast
Jay Aaseng, Matthew Bridges, Danielle Kazarakis, Corsica Wilson, Lauren Baldwin, Jennifer Haley, Khai Dattoli, Luis Selgas, Ryan Rowley.

Production Team
Paul McGee - Director
Anna Yosin - Assistant Director
Brandon Dattoli - sound/lighting
Matt Basora - videography

Dear DW, Thanks for your great question!  I acknowledge you for having clear and specific positive goals – goals that seem rationally doable.  Having a mind is such a great gift!  We have the freedom to use our mind to think thoughts about our positive goals, and then allow these thoughts to inspire our actions in creating them. 

To fully believe your positive goals, I recommend you add INTENTION.

Adding intention to reach your goal is like the dynamic force that is created when the archer draws back the bow and arrow before releasing the arrow to soar through the air to its target.  If we only aim the arrow at our target, nothing will happen, not until we pull back the bow and arrow and then release the arrow with that forward thrusting force.  It’s the same with our goals – more forward thrust is created when we fuel them with our inherent super power of INTENTION.

Add INTENTION to soar into your positive goals, by following these steps:

1. Write down your clear and specific positive goals.
2. Now rewrite your goals, starting them with these words – “My intention is…”
3. Read these goals aloud daily and often. 
4. Imagine and visualize yourself experiencing your positive goals, with as many details as possible.
5. Celebrate yourself and your co-creators when you experience your positive goals.

Additional tips: 

• Post your positive intentions in places where you see them often; for example on your computer or tablet monitor or keyboard, on your bathroom mirror, on your cell phone display, etc.
• Add a timeframe.
• Bring Source (Divine, Spirit, God) into your program, by inviting Source to flow through you in creating your positive goals – always with the intention for the highest good of all. 

Examples of goals fueled by INTENTION:

• My intention is that I am successfully living my life of purpose.
• My intention is that my thoughts and actions support my happiness and the highest good.
• My intention is that I am trusting my life and my inherent state of wellbeing.
• My intention is that Source and I are fulfilling my positive goals by September 1, 2015.

Add INTENTION – the thrust – to ALL of your POSITIVE GOALS!  Aim, pull, and send your arrow to the target!  Intend and focus on your positive goals, and not on erasing the doubts.  We tend to experience what we focus on, so with intention turn your focus away from doubting thoughts and toward your positive goals. "My intention is I am focusing my thoughts on my positive goals." 

My intention is to support you DW and all of my readers in achieving and fully experiencing your positive life goals, for the highest good of all!

Your Life Coach, Maddisen

Here are some goodies – quotes and links to inspire our intention!

“The way to establish a relationship with Spirit and access the power of this creating principle is to continuously contemplate yourself surrounded by the conditions you wish to produce.” – Dr. Wayne Dyer

“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” – Dr. Wayne Dyer

“All matter originates and exists only by virtue of a force... We must assume behind this force the existence of a conscious and intelligent Mind. This Mind is the matrix [medium] of all matter.” – Max Planck

"Thoughts are the seeds of reality. Plant them and care for them with love." - Maddisen Krown

"The act of speaking our intentions aloud shifts them from wishful thinking into action." - Michael Thomas Sunnarborg

Dr. Wayne Dyer – “Power of Intention”, Part 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBdf0sCXYJI

Dr. Wayne Dyer – Contemplate to Create http://www.drwaynedyer.com/blog/contemplate-to-create/

Copyright 2015 Maddisen K. Krown M.A.

Photo by Pixar © 2011 Disney/Pixar.

We’ve seen the construction at the Television Academy and are anxiously awaiting its completion. For more background on the construction project, here’s a recent interview by features writer Chavonny Tillotson.

Here’s an update on their progress.

The Academy is closing in on completion of this $30 million building (the focus of the $40 million New Destination Campaign, which also includes a robust endowment for the educational Foundation).

“Part of the impetus for the new building was that our industry is still in the midst of a revolution and we needed a space that reflected that,” said Maury McIntyre, Television Academy president and COO.

“We’re in an age where people can not only watch and engage with their favorite shows pretty much anywhere and anytime, but they can also tell their own stories, create their own shows, and distribute them to a wide audience. Never before has television been this personalized – for both the audience and the storyteller. “

With its clean lines and windowed surfaces, the new Academy building will be a place where members can see themselves and their ideas reflected, both literally and figuratively.

As construction continues for an opening in early 2016, the Academy looks not only to continue programs that honor television’s legacy but also launch new programs that talk about where the medium is going. That plan is embodied in the ahead-of-the–curve new building.



The centerpiece of the new 30,000 square-foot Media Center is a reconstructed state-of-the-art Goldenson Theatre, outfitted with full digital connectivity and streaming capability and featuring stadium seating and up-to-date audio and video formats, including 4K and 3D projection, as well as a proscenium stage and green room.

A new Governors Room conference center offers a smart space for smaller gatherings and professional development programs. The space will also include a pocket studio to produce new digital content, an editing suite, as well as new office and meeting spaces for the Academy Foundation’s employees and interns.

The building is, in many ways, the physical embodiment of the Academy’s move not only to embrace the industry’s future but to play an active role in it.

“We want to be more prevalent in the industry, represent more members’ voices and do so on a regular basis,” McIntyre said.

Being forward-thinking is a hallmark of the Academy, and being so means more than the broad-stroke stuff. It means considering every detail of engagement and production. The new Academy building is no exception.

When designing the modernist building, Lee Pasteris, design director for the global design firm Gensler, worked in collaboration with Fred Dagdagan, lead designer for F. Dagdagan Design, and they paid close attention to the fine points of the new space.



For example, the new theater not only contains up-to-the-minute technology, the designers also considered features that may register as more low-tech, like entries and exits. “I’m really excited about the overall plan, and the indoor and outdoor connection,” said Lee Pasteris. The modern structure boasts clean lines throughout, greater infusion of natural light and a sense of flow for employees, members and visitors. “All of the spaces are more transparent,” Pasteris said.

In their design, Pasteris and Dagdagan considered the Academy’s many large gala events--the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Los Angeles Area Emmys, the College Television Awards and more—and how 600 people will enter and exit the new theater, as well as how they will dine and celebrate outdoors. The first floor’s grand lobby area opens onto the building’s main plaza, where a dinner for hundreds may be held.



“The first level is very transparent [with a full view of the outdoors],” allowing for an elegant flow between the interior and exterior, Pasteris noted.

A circular drive, centered on the Academy’s Emmy statue as its focal point, will allow for graceful drop-off and entry process, as well as the extraordinary Red Carpet events that the Television Academy is known for.

Beyond red-carpet functions, Pasteris said the design team considered the needs for each user – from an event attendee to an individual office user to a sight-seeing group.

The latter group, for example, may find itself in the Hall of Fame courtyard, where the Academy’s famed busts of TV greats will be found. “Giving those a space really helps build a strong historical connection,” Pasteris said, comparing the busts to Hollywood Boulevard’s signature star-tiled Walk of Fame.

And while the Academy honors the past, the future is its focus. The new second floor workspaces offer comfortable spaces for Foundation employees and a technology training center for interns, College Television Award winners, and emerging storytellers, who represent the industry’s next generation. The building’s design and modern amenities are inspiring the Academy to develop ever more programs for members and for the public to get people thinking.

“The improvements mimic and reflect the evolution of our industry and who we are – thought leaders in our industry – so this building will enable many of our dreams to become reality, as we plan our future,” McIntyre said.

“Every room now will have broadcast capabilities, where before we did not,” McIntyre said. “We want to continue to celebrate and honor excellence in our industry but also talk about where TV is going, how it changes and evolves and what it does for society.”

There are certainly many possibilities to look forward to, and many things that – excitingly – have not even been thought of yet.

“The Television Academy is building a home not only worthy of our organization’s future, but the future of the industry as well,” McIntyre said.

Read more about the Television Academy construction here>>

**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood's NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo.  

We met Kurt Taylor during the days of the NoHo Theatre & Arts Festival. Those were happy days when our neighborhood was young and just beginning to blossom. Kurt was a great ally of the NoHo Arts District and produced interviews on the festival and all the talented participants. Kurt is coming back to NoHo but this time not behind the camera but on stage. The New Short Fiction Series at The Federal Bar presents “Horsepower And Other Stories,” by Kurt Taylor, on Sunday, August 9, 2015 at 7PM. He and guests will perform exerpts from some of his short stories. Performing words? Yes. This is what the New Short Fiction Series is all about.

Did you know that the New Short Fiction Series is L.A.’s longest running spoken word series? It just so happens that it’s presented at The Federal Bar every second Sunday of the month in cooperation with Barnes & Noble, and is a recognized standout in the Southland’s artistic landscape. Each performance features carefully selected excerpts from new works of short fiction by a West Coast writer. The New Short Fiction Series is directly responsible for placing six newly released books on the Los Angeles Times’ bestseller list, and has been the “jump off” for many collections and novels from unpublished stories featured in the series. Spoken word artist Sally Shore hosts and produces this live, monthly program, performing with a rotating guest cast of some of L.A.’s most talented working actors.



Kurt survived 24 years as an executive in the cable television industry and also worked as a sports journalist and broadcaster. He holds an MFA in creative writing from the University of California, Riverside, low-residency program, and has written a novel about a Vietnam veteran who goes in search of a missing pro boxer. Taylor, while considering writing a tell-all of the dark days of the broadband industry where he will name names and point fingers, currently blogs at indian-hill.blogspot.com and kurttaylor.blogspot.com.

WHAT: “Horsepower And Other Stories”

WHEN: Sunday, August 9
Performances begin at 7:00 p.m.
Doors open 6:00 p.m. for your dining pleasure

WHERE: The Federal Bar NoHo
5303 Lankershim Blvd.
North Hollywood, CA 91601

TICKETS: Advance Tickets Recommended!
$12.00 advance purchase
$15.00 at the door, cash only

Get Tickets>>

Here's a short description of the stories that will be performed:

- Lane and Mia (Excerpted, Fiction); Lane sees a strange apparition while driving in the desert, and seeks to confirm that he's not still suffering the effects of a previous psychological breakdown. He enlists a friend to go on a quest to confirm what he's seen, while trying to conceal his true reason for his road trip from his wife, Mia.
Background; I'm fascinated by desert culture and the folks who live on the edge of Southern California, far from the vortex of the media culture and entertainment overload. I wanted to combine the mystical, magical elements of the desert with a man's attempt at rehabilitation who really wants to know, 'Am I still crazy?'

- The Flags At Fenway (Fiction); A sports writer attempts to get a major league baseball player to reveal why he left the game.
Background; As a writer, I'm as much interested in the reasons why pro athletes fail, as in their successes. For me there is drama in the failure and athletes ability to deal with it.

- Two Land Broadband (Excerpted, Narrative non-fiction); A first person account of the Adelphia Communications bankruptcy, while I was a general manager in their Los Angeles operations. What it was like, on the ground, during the near-shutdown of financial support during the beginning of the then-largest bankruptcy proceedings in U.S. history.
Background; I lived through a harrowing and unusual time in the telecommunication industry, which ultimately led to the two founding members of the Adelphia Communications company going to federal prison. It was a striking failure of leadership. The opening scene in the story kept resonating in my mind, and I felt it would be a good place to start a sort of 'one man's journey through darkness' type of story.

- Horsepower (Narrative non-fiction); Seeing vintage race cars at the Auto Club Speedway sparked memories of my own, of the cars I've owned, and one in particular that helped me lead-foot my way through a personally heartbreaking time.
Background; I spent two days photographing beautiful race cars at the Auto Club Speedway, and I started to write some thoughts about the cars and the men who now own them and drive them. When I kept writing, it moved on to my childhood memories of car shows, and some of my first cars. After a personally difficult time, I bought a car and drove wild through the Rocky Mountains trying to distance myself from heartbreak. After moving to California, the car sat idle for years, until I found a new owner worthy of all that the car meant.

Here's what Southern California writers are saying:

"Like the people he writes about, Kurt Taylor has heart and gets inside on you. And with…Horsepower, he provides an intimate look at the world of male heartbreak, connecting fast cars, women, and life-shattering decisions in a way that I have not seen before. Thanks for the ride, Kurt, and I hope it doesn't end." - Deanne Stillman

“Kurt Taylor writes about people who don't mind getting dirty, people who like to sweat; gritty people who are sometimes in desperate situations -- but he adds a dose of sweetness and just the right amount of weird to his stories, making them the perfect cocktail for a night on the town."
- Mark Haskell Smith

"Kurt Taylor’s characters characters could have come out of the mind of Elmore Leonard--wound tight and ready to break open, driving his stories forward, compelling the reader to press on. His characters, coupled with his keen eye for detail and dark sense of humor, left me with a haunting sense of déjà vu, like I’d been there with these characters before, a feeling that stuck with me long after I’d finished reading." - William Hillyard

**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood's NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo.

THUNDER DOG: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust 

This incredible true story about a blind man and his guide dog will change your perspective on life and inspire courage and will. Michael Hingson writes about his life being blind, and his and guide dog Roselle’s will and determination to live as normally as possible. A film about his story would be one of action, thrill and heroism - all in one. He shares specifically one fateful day on September 11, 2001, when his remarkable guide dog led him down 78 flights of stairs during the World Trade Center terrorist attacks. I see Jason Bateman playing lead for this since he brings the same endearing and strong-willed personality to his characters. The details in this story about their survival of that traumatic day emphasize “the triumph of trust” between him and his guide dog, and would definitely pack movie theaters. I’d be first in line.

The Dog Lived (And So Will I): A Memoir

The quote on the book cover almost says it all, describing this memoir as “a story about love and the strength love gives us to go on”. If you are a dog lover (which you probably are or else you wouldn’t be reading this), and you or a loved one has dealt with cancer, this story strikes home. This is another film that would fall under heroism, but also compassion and love. Seeing your dog go through cancer is tough enough, but then being diagnosed yourself is one of life’s hardships that many people struggle with. The inspiration to beat cancer together is such a happy story to read. Who else can play such an emotionally in-depth role than Meryl Streep? I know I’d pay to see this story in theaters.

Sergeant Rex: The Unbreakable Bond Between a Marine and His Working Dog

Military-themed movies are growing ever-popular, and some of the highest grossing military films are based on true events. Both in military and civilian populations, this story about Sergeant Rex and his handler, Mike Dowling is well-known. As one of many Marine Corps units deployed to Iraq, Sergeant Dowling and his military working dog, Sergeant Rex were part of military k9 teams sent to the front lines of combat since Vietnam. Specifically, Dowling shares events from missions with Rex in Iraq’s infamous Triangle of Death. The two made an impermeable team, and Rex’s heroism during his deployments with Dowling have gone down in history. I see Chris Hemsworth playing lead since he could totally pass as a Marine.

When one or all of these books turn into movies, I’ll be first in line to get tickets. We know there are hundreds of true stories about 9/11, beating cancer, and combat in Iraq, but these three captivate readers and make them feel like they are right there with the authors - and surviving it all with their loyal dogs.

Ronnie Mack’s internationally famous country-roots showcase RONNIE MACK’S BARNDANCE was a Los Angeles institution for 25 years.

In 1990, this event was held weekly at the world famous Palomino Club in North Hollywood. There was no cover charge and around twelve well-known bands in the lineup. It was broadcast every Thursday night on KXLU radio station. Over the years, attendees have included Buck Owens, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bruce Springsteen, Dwight Yoakam, Rosie Flores, Lucinda Williams, James Intveld, Brian Setzer and Connie Francis.

Ronnie Mack became interested in music as a young boy when, at the age of four, his grandfather gave him some toy instruments to play with.

He became fascinated by these and taught himself to play a few chords on guitar as well as picking up the drums, accordion and saxophone. when he was six years old, he began learning songs by Ricky Nelson.

His move from Baltimore, Maryland to Los Angeles in 1976 led to him befriending Ray Campi; Rockabilly Hall Of Famer, and Ronny Weiser; record producer and founder of rockabilly record label Rollin' Rock.

In 1979 he formed the Punk Rock Band Ronnie Mack & Black Slacks and by the 1980’s he was a noted regular on the Los Angeles Rockabilly scene.

Mack shared one of his fondest memories that took place at the Sacramento Civic Center in 1985. Fats Domino and his band were on tour with Ricky Nelson and Mack was asked to play guitar for the sound check because Nelson could not be there. “I got to play the songs with The Jordanaires!” Mack gleefully told me. The concert lineup included The Jordanaires, Ricky Nelson, Ronnie Mack, The Coasters and Fats Domino.

Ronnie Mack’s Barn Dance began in 1988 usually paying tribute to a particular artist such as Buddy Holly, Hank Williams Sr., Patsy Cline and the like.

Keeping the tradition of the Barn Dance, Ronnie now hosts regular tribute events to salute America’s music legends that have included Connie Francis, Ricky Nelson, and Glen Campbell at local venues such as VivaCantina And Mexican Restaurant, and Pickwick Gardens.

Stay tuned for information on the upcoming events and the Ronnie Mack Podcast series!
Check out Ronnie Mack Facebook page

Ronnie Mack

Ronnie on the left

Ronnie Mack

Ronnie Mack

Taking place in pubs, clubs, bars, breweries, beer gardens and back yards all over the world and in the NoHo Arts District on Friday, August 7 is INTERNATIONAL BEER DAY. There aren't a lot of things the whole world agrees on or folks in North Hollywood for that matter, but enjoying beer is one of them, so let's all raise a pint and make a toast: “to Beer, a drink that brings the world together.” So mark your calendars every year for the first Friday of August!

Here are three really good excuses/reasons to celebrate Beer Day in NoHo:
1) To get together with friends and enjoy the deliciousness that is beer.
2) To honor the dedicated men and women who brew and serve our beer.
3) To bring the world together under the united banner of beer, by celebrating the beers of all nations and cultures together on this one remarkable day.

International Beer Day is our chance to let the breweries and bars of the world know how much we appreciate them, all while participating in one of the best activities ever -- drinking beer! Perhaps even more than the beverage itself, International Beer Day is about celebrating the establishments who produce it, sell it and give folks a place to enjoy it.

So let’s say thanks to our North Hollywood bars and hangouts:

The Federal Bar>>
Bow & Truss>>
The Bar-b-que Bar>>
Skinny’s Lounge>>
Brickyard Pub>>
Pitfire Pizza>>
Eclectic Bar & Grille>>

So raise your glass on Friday, August 7 in North Hollywood to celebrate these heroes behind each tasty brew. Cheers to International Beer Day!

#IntlBeerDay – Follow OfficialNoHo on Twitter
Give a NoHo Shout Out to the folks who designated this holiday!




**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood's NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo.

Every Thursday we send out our NoHo e-News. Do you get it? It takes 30 seconds. Make sure you sign up, it’s FREE. Sign up HERE>>

This issue of NoHo e-News is about what's going on in North Hollywood and a selection of some theatre shows. But we have a ton of them. Did you know that the NoHo Arts District has the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City? Just check out the NoHo Arts District Theatre Guide>>

Here's a glimpse at what's going on in North Hollywood...ENJOY NOHO!



**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood's NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo.  

A Group Rep Bonus Production

THE WINNING STREAK

Written By Lee Blessing
Directed by Sherry Netherland

We are treated to a bonus production at the end of a very successful 41st season at the Group Rep at the Lonny Chapman Theatre of the wonderful comedy/drama, THE WINNING STREAK, written by Lee Blessing whose plays include A Walk in the Woods (Broadway and London’s West End), and the amazing play Cobb (Drama Desk Award), the latter of which was performed at the Group Rep recently.

Lloyd Pedersen, Daniel Sykes  Photo by Doug Engalla

In this two character play, Omar (Lloyd Pedersen) has been contacted by Ryland (Daniel Sykes), who it appears is a son that Omar didn’t know he had. Omar is a retired umpire who is obsessed with the game of baseball, and leads a life where nothing is as important as his team. When Ryland contacted Omar, his team had been in a losing slump for years, and now they are on a winning steak. Omar is convinced that it is because Ryland has come to town. But, Ryland’s mission is to become a part of his Dad’s life, and to find out about a family he never knew, and definitely not to sit around and listen to baseball all day. The emotions run high, as you can imagine, when a father and son meet for the first time. But Ryland is completely frustrated. He wants to spend time with Omar, but Omar avoids telling Ryland anything. And we know that something is keeping Omar from opening up to Ryland. But what is it?

Omar’s passion for the game of baseball, and the trauma he experienced as a boy, has him locked within his own mind unable to extend himself to Ryland. And Ryland has his own set of issues that reveal themselves as they begin to get to know each other.

Lloyd Pedersen as Omar and Daniel Sykes as Ryland are fantastic. You are drawn into the story by the characters, and by the talent these two actors bring to their respective roles. Funny and deeply sensitive with great performances, all wonderful characteristics to have in a play, and that’s just what we experience with THE WINNING STREAK.

THE WINNING STREAK was directed by Sherry Netherland. She was a long time member of the Group Rep who passed away last year. It is being performed in her memory to honor Sherry and her amazing contributions to the company.

I liked this play, and encourage you to see it and enjoy the extremely funny moments, and the touching ones. Come out and enjoy theatre in NoHo.

Enjoy!!!!!!!!

Cast: Lloyd Pedersen and Daniel Sykes
Director: Sherry Netherland
Producer for the Group Rep: Lloyd Pedersen
Stage Manager: Larry Eisenberg
Set Design: Chris Winfield
Lighting Design: J Kent Inasy
Costume Design: Angela M. Eads
Sound Design: Steve Shaw
Public Relations: Nora Feldman
Graphic Design: Doug Haverty / Art & Soul Design
Program: Larry Eisenberg

The Lonny Chapman Theatre
10900 Burbank Blvd
North Hollywood, CA 91601

www.thegrouprep.com or (818) 763-5990

Plays: August 1st through August 30th, 2015
Saturday Matinees at 2:00 PM; Sunday Evenings at 7:00 PM
**Saturday, August 8th Talk-Back after matinee with PLAYWRIGHT Lee Blessing
Saturday. August 15th Talk-Back after matinee with Cast & Staff

Tickets: $20
Running Time: 105 minutes plus one intermission

Parking: Please allow 15 minutes. Free street parking on Burbank Blvd and on Cleon Ave
Just south of the theatre building.

Special Seating: Please notify theatre at least 24 hours prior to visit to arrange for special seating
By calling: (818) 763-5990