ESTEBAN ESCOBAR Named LA County Events Examiner for Examiner.com

On Tuesday, August 24, 2010 Diversity News Publications in association with EEEnterprises announced on Tuesday, August 24, 2010 that Esteban Escobar Aka Steven have been named LA County Events Examiner for Examiner.com.

Esteban Escobar is also currently the Hollywood Events Examiner for Examiner.com

 
“I am so honored to have a second title with Examiner.com. I want to thanks all my fans which are readers, subscribers and my industry friends for been loyal and helping me in getting more readers, articles comments and subscribers.” Said Esteban Escobar. Editor of Diversity News Magazine, WTV Blog and Hollywood & LA County Events Examiner
 
Esteban Escobar was approached by Examiner.com Category Manager, of the Entertainment page to add a second title to his current coverage. Esteban Escobar became the LA County Events Examiner at the beginning of August 2010 but because Examiner.com have going to a complete make over the page was not working until today it was fixed by Examiner.com IT.
 
“Writing for Diversity News, Examiner.com & editing WTV Blog are great things happenning in my career. Also getting thousands of views on my articles, it make me so proud. I do not know how to thank LINDA KRONGOLD who proof read most of my stories. I can not forget to thanks all my photographers: Alex Palomares, Jeff Knight, Rodrigo Vaz, Daniela Hubbard, Tisha Rivera, Ray Chavez, FFD Images and others for covering events and granted permission for me to use their photos in multiple online sites.” Concluded Mr. Escobar.
 
You can check Esteban “Steven” Escobar pages at http://www.examiner.com/events-in-los-angeles/esteban-escobar-1 & http://www.examiner.com/events-in-los-angeles/esteban-escobar
 
“Congratulations; so happy for you! Thanks for thanking me; I love being a part of this from across the country!” Said Linda Satloff Krongold, Esteban Escobar New York proofreader.
If you are interested in getting Esteban Escobar to cover your event, you must send a press release, with flyer and any photos for possible consideration a least 2 or 4 weeks in advance to: diversitynews@hotmail.com

This month Esteban Escobar was also featured on The EErie Digest Magazine. You can check interview at http://www.eeriedigest.com/wordpress/2010/08/interview-with-esteban-steven-escobar/

Esteban Escobar works as editor for Diversity News Magazine, edits WTV Blog and writers for Examiner.com. He also runs other blogs published by Diversity News Publications. Esteban also works in the healthcare finance field. For more information visit his partial biography at http://diversitynewspublications.com/about/

About Diversity News Publications:
DIVERSITY NEWS PUBLICATIONS Is a media and public relations firm specialized in Advertising, Design, Marketing, Printing & Public Relations services who combines all sources in one. For information visit http://www.diversitynewspublications.blogspot.com/
 


About Examiner.com:
Examiner.com is the inside source for everything local. We are powered by Examiners, the largest pool of knowledgeable and passionate contributors in the world. Examiners provide unique and original content to enhance life in your local city wherever that may be.

Crimes Of The Heart – A Heartfelt and Entertaining Journey‏

Review By Songirl Sez, Special for Diversity News

Beth Henley’s Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy, ”Crimes of the Heart” opened on Friday night, August 13, 2010 at the Whitmore Lindley Theatre in North Hollywood, CA. Directed by Veronica DiPippo and produced by Alicia Benavides Greenfield and Sonia Curtis Acerra the story takes place in Hazelhurst, Mississippi.

In this stage play, one disaster after another falls into the laps of three Southern sisters. The playwright presents the tragedies in the form of story-telling gossip which kept the audience captivated and enthralled. The play is Greek tragedy meets Southern comedy.


The 3 siblings, Lenny, Meg and Babe share a love/hate relationship with one another, which is particularly evident between the oldest sister Lenny (played brilliantly by Sonia Curtis) and the middle sister, Meg (portrayed by Victoria Profeta). The story takes place on Lenny’s 30th birthday, in which every one has appeared to have either forgotten or treated it as if it were no big deal. In addition to her ‘turning-30 blues,’ she is told that her 20 year old horse, Billy Boy, has been struck and killed by lightning. As if this weren’t enough to keep her in a funk, she is continually reminded by her sisters that she has a shrunken ovary, which Lenny fears will keep her from finding a husband.

“I love theater. I was raised in NYC . I’ve done lots of theater as an actress, and then had a non-for profit theater Co.in NYC, which I produced plays . I came to LA after 911, to continue my acting career on TV &film. I always had a burning desire to produce and then this wonderful opportunity presented it self. I then realize that this was a gem. To work with mostly strong women from director to producers. I couldn’t turn it down .” said Alicia Benavides Greenfield, producer & actress. She continue “I’ve seen the film,and after reading the play by Beth Henley , I realized that it depicted and magnified quirky, dysfunctional, and traditional families. I felt strongly that anyone can relate to this fun emotional roller-coaster, hopefully not every day, but enough to feel for this strong characters portray in Beth Henley play.” 

Lenny’s character is clearly sad, but endearing, as her trouble’s pale in comparison to her youngest sister, Babe (fancifully played by Kincaid Walker) who has just shot her husband, Zachary, in the stomach. When asked why she did it, she only replies, ”I didn’t like his voice.”

“Myself I’m from NYC have a strong desire to raise the bar. I have a strong theater background. LA theater is not as prevalent or respected as theater in NY. Hopes are to bring that belief-system to LA, and bringing the respect for Theatre here in Los Angeles. Why not ? The audience gets to see a live performances at affordable prices , and every nite as you know is different. Spontaniety is good ! As I’m a working Actress, I will continue to produce plays and films.” Concluded Ms. Benavides.

With Babe in deep trouble, the middle sister, Meg, returns from Hollywood, where her singing career has fallen apart due to going temporarily insane and becoming a lush, involving herself with too many men. The siblings grandfather is in the hospital possibly on his death bed and Meg doesn’t have the heart to tell him that she’s working a regular job and no longer singing. She concocks a few far-fetched stories about co-starring in a film and recording her new album to appease him. The story weaves in the fabric of life experience, just a true life experience molds us as children into who we become as adults. The 3 sisters have become accustomed with a dramatic and tragic existence, starting from their own troubled childhood, having to deal with their mother hanging herself with her cat to escape their abusive father.

“I love the play and did a scene from it in a Larry Moss advanced intensive. Larry gave me the part of Lenny and I was really moved by how deep she is and how funny and witty these southern characters in the play are. My friend Victoria Profeta and I had worked together on Laundry and Bourbon and wanted to work together again and after reading dozens of plays we chose Crimes of the Heart.” said producer & actress Sonia Curtis Acerra. She continue “I love the blend of comedy and drama in the play, and think it is a great play with a lot of heart and also wonderful roles for women. Larry Moss also told me that I should do the play, and I really respect Larry and trust his insight, so I did!”

Although the stories are comedic and seem chancy, Henley has created a touching story which relates to all and transcends time. The zany, offbeat behavior of the sisters take on a life of their own – silly, yet believable logic – so much so that when Babe explains that after she shot Zachary she made herself a pitcher of lemonade because she was thirsty, it seems perfectly realistic and normal. The writing of this play is sheer perfection, and the actors portray the characters with a believable brilliance. The sisters deal with each catastrophe in their own maniacal manner. It’s their survival instinct, bond with one another, honesty and love that makes this play believable as the audience sympathizes and laughs with them through each embellished experience. Through the silliness, the sadness and the wacky tales, this comedy drama is ultimately about letting go of the past and facing the future with hope, uncertainty and freedom.

Ms. Acerra added. “I hope to entertain the viewers and bring them both to laughter and tears. Theater and film provide a safe place for the audience to emote and experience their feelings by giving them permission to let go, so hopefully we are giving them that experience. As for the message, There is a theme of abuse in the play and showing women being oppressed a bit by men, plus it shows a character who is too afraid to stand up for herself but through her love for her sisters and with their support she finds the courage she needs to stand up and fight back.”

It is a perfectly blended mix of laughter and emotion. Under Veronica DiPippo’s sensitive direction, the Whitmore Lindley Theatre production comes across funny, believable and moving. The actors played their roles truthfully and their comedic timing was excellent. Their accents were convincing and the stage and dress were set true to the time period.

“My husband and I are going to produce a short film called “Most Precious Blood” about human trafficking, and I have a few scripts around town that I am trying to get the financing for or get sold to a network and made for television.” Ms. Acerra concluded.

The actresses – Sonia Curtis as Lenny, Brenda Lasker as Cousin Chick, Victoria Profeta as Meg and Kincaid Walker as Babe.

The actors – Nate Orr as Meg’s former boyfriend – Doc Porter, and Alec Beard as Babe’s lawyer, Barnette.

”Crimes of the Heart” is playing at the Whitmore Lindley Theatre located at 11006 Magnolica Blvd., North Hollywood, CA. 91601. Scheduled shows are August 13-15,th 20-22nd and 27-29th. To find out more go to www.cimesoftheheart2010.blogspot.com

About Crimes of the Heart:
At the core of this tragic comedy are the three Magrath sisters, Meg, Babe, and Lenny, who reunite at Old Granddaddy’s home in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, after Babe shoots her abusive husband. The trio was raised in a dysfunctional family with a penchant for ugly predicaments and each has endured her share of hardship and misery. Past resentments bubble to the surface as they’re forced to deal with assorted relatives and past relationships while coping with the latest incident that has disrupted their lives. Each sister is forced to face the consequences of the “Crimes of the Heart” she has committed.

About award-winning Filmmaker, Director and Writer Veronica DiPippo:
An award-winning filmmaker, director and writer, Veronica has directed numerous original works for theatre including Sins of the Father at The Met Theatre, Los Angeles, Off-the-Wall at the Writers Theatre, New York, and Roaring Girls at Musical Theatre Works, New York, as well as classics such as August Wilson’s Fences. As a playwright, over thirty productions of her plays and one-acts have been produced at theatres across the country. Her newest play Lulu’s Last Stand is set to premiere at Theatre 40 in Los Angeles in October, 2010.

Veronica began her career as an actor with John Strasberg’s Mirror Repertory Company in New York City where she also studied acting with fellow company member Geraldine Page. She is a graduate of The Drama Studio, London at Berkeley and SUNY where she holds a degree in writing for film and television. She is a member of the Writers Guild, Women In Film, the Alliance of Women Directors and The Dramatists Guild. For more information, please visit http://www.crunchentertainment.com/about_ver.php

About Producer Sonia Curtis Acerra:
Sonia Curtis Acerra was introduced to Hollywood through her father, a famous Hollywood Stuntman. She grew up visiting film and television sets regularly and after playing the lead role in her high school musical “Bye Bye Birdie” she was hooked on acting. Sonia was accepted to the USC BFA Program for acting but was unable to attend because she began working right after high school. While working on various TV shows she continuously trained with great teachers such as Bill Traylor at The Loft, Roy London, Cameron Thor and Sandra Seacat. She went on to book recurring roles on “Family Ties”, “Days of Our Lives”, and “Roseanne” and her film credits include “The Monster Squad” and “Terminal Bliss.”

After many years of acting Sonia also began to coach actors privately and in groups and began writing and developing scripts for film and television. Last year Sonia produced and starred in a short film “Deception” directed by award winning director Pamela Dresser. Currently she has several projects in various stages of development. “Crimes of the Heart” is the first theater production Sonia has undertaken. She is very grateful for all the support she has received from Victoria Profeta, Veronica Dipippo, Alicia Benavides Greenfield, Zac Polhamus and all of the wonderful cast and crew and her amazing husband Jeremiah Acerra who has helped with many aspects of this production. For more information, please visit http://www.soniacurtis.com

About Producer Alicia Benavides Greenfield:
In 2000 Alicia Founded the NewMan theatre Company a non-profit theater company in NYC. She produced original pieces such as “Dinner at the Manse” by Ara Anasa, as well as “‘Danny and the Deep Blue Sea” by pulitzer prize winning writer/directer John Patrick Shanley in which she played the lead role as Roberta.

Alicia Majored in Film/Media at NYU and has consistently trained and worked as an actress for the past 15 years.
Currently she studies with Joanne Barron/DW Brown in Los Angeles. Alicia is honored to be debuting as a producer here in LA NOHO with “Crimes of the Heart.” For more information, please visit http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2079758/

About Get Real Productions:
Get Real Productions was founded in 1999 by Sonia Curtis with a creative vision to teach actors, inspire, write, produce and direct various projects in the entertainment industry. The main goal at Get Real Productions is to find and develop new talent and projects and encourage partnership with other talented positive people who bring hard work, good attitudes, dedication and professionalism to their craft. For more information, please visit http://www.getrealproductions.biz

U.S. District Court Judge Vaughn Walker Struck Proposition 8 Down, but Marriage Still On Hold

The controversial Proposition 8 was overturned on Wednesday, August 4, 2010 by U.S. District Court Judge Vaughn Walker who ruled Proposition 8 is unconstitutional.

 Proposition 8 was passed on November 4, 2008 by CA Voters with 52.1% againts 47.9% with 94.6% precincts.


“It has been over five years since I voted to place same-sex marriage in the Massachusetts Democratic Party Platform when I was a delegate at the Democratic Convention. Today’s decision by Judge Walker of the Federal District Court to overturn Proposition 8 now indicates that we are on the verge of having marriage equality from coast to coast. Though there is a long road ahead of us to the U.S. Supreme Court, this ruling is an important win for the families involved, the entire LGBT community, and for all of those who sacrificed their time, energy, and even their lives to promote a nation where everyone can be treated equally under the law. This rally in West Hollywood today has been an exhilarating event and I am proud to be in the company of so many who have done so much for the LGBT community.” said Dr. John Carvalho, Political Action Committee, Human Rights Campaign.

Court documents states “Proposition 8 fails to advance any rational basis in singling out gay men and lesbians for denial of a marriage license. Indeed, the evidence shows Proposition 8 does nothing more than enshrine in the California Constitution the notion that oppositesex couples are superior to same-sex couples. Because California has no interest in discriminating against gay men and lesbians, and because Proposition 8 prevents California from fulfilling its constitutional obligation to provide marriages on an equal basis, the court concludes that Proposition 8 is unconstitutional.
Plaintiffs have demonstrated by overwhelming evidence that Proposition 8 violates their due process and equal protection rights and that they will continue to suffer these constitutional violations until state officials cease enforcement of Proposition 8. California is able to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, as it has already issued 18,000 marriage licenses to samesex couples and has not suffered any demonstrated harm as a result, see FF 64-66; moreover, California officials have chosen not to defend Proposition 8 in these proceedings.



Because Proposition 8 is unconstitutional under both the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses, the court orders entry of judgment permanently enjoining its enforcement; prohibiting the official defendants from applying or enforcing Proposition 8 and directing the official defendants that all persons under their control or supervision shall not apply or enforce Proposition 8.”
The clerk is DIRECTED to enter judgment without bond in favor of plaintiffs and plaintiff-intervenors and against defendants and defendant-intervenors pursuant to FRCP 58.
IT IS SO ORDERED. VAUGHN R WALKER, United States District Chief Judge.

Please click to view the originals Proposition 8 Ruling Documents

Prop 8 Ruling Documents

Also click to view the Temporary Ruling Document from the Judge.

Temporary stay – Marryage

Walker and Night Trains Novels by Joseph J. O’Donnell

Novel Name: Walkers by Joseph J. O’Donnell

Joseph J. O’Donnell’s second book, “Walkers”, centers around one of the  U.S. Army’s black box programs hatched out their ’skunk works’ at Fort Meade.
Here, mind control projects have created agents possessing the ability to penetrate the deepest secrets of the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Following the end of hostilities the government abandoned the project and scattered those involved back into various branches of the service.

Publishers and Filmmakers Inquiries welcome ! Contact at e-mail address below.’

One renegade general kept the project alive, however, and heightened selected agents by extending their ability to become assassins. Now that his plans were discovered, his trained agents were to become the tools to eliminate those opposed to the project. This would include the President of the United States.

Two FBI agents, along with a lone dissenter of the general’s ’school of thought’, was all that stood between democracy and despotism. The author’s ability to hold his readers from the very beginning, through the final pages, will surely make this a memorable book to fit in with such classics as ‘Seven Days In May’ and ‘The Manchurian Candidate’.

Novel Name: Night Trains by Joseph J. O’Donnell

‘Publishers and Filmmakers Inquiries welcome ! Contact at e-mail address below.’
Information:
In his first novel, ‘Night Trains’, in what began as a simple assault quickly became the ultimate battle between good and evil. The story revolves around a killer in the New York City subways.
This is no ordinary killer though. He can thwart the best of police efforts to apprehend him and his ability to do so stems far beyond the possibilities of reality….into the realms of the supernatural.

Contact Information:

E-mail: fictionwriterodonnell@yahoo.com

Links:

http://www.fictionwriterodonnell.com/

Editor’s Note: The above novel/movie trailers have been published with permission from the author.

LA Grammy Block Party Raises $30.000 For Musicares Nashville Flood Relief Fund

On August 2, 2010 The Recording Academy reported that their Los Angeles Chapter’s first-ever GRAMMY Block Party® was a big success in its effort to raise money for the MusiCares® Nashville Flood Relief Fund.

The Grammy Block Party was held on July 31, 2010 at the Academy headquarter office in Santa Monica, CA from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. 

More than 900 people attended the picnic-style concert with performances from akaCassidy, Charice, Raphael Saadiq, La Santa Cecila and Chuck Wicks. Musician Rickey Minor served as the musical director. Pop singer Charice came out to support the cause and Country recording artist Chuck Wicks (whose tour bus was affected by the floods thanked the audience for supporting Nashville) . “It is inspiring and gratifying to witness the generosity of spirit, support and resources that the music community has contributed in response to this tragedy. We are immensely proud to be the ‘heart’ of the music industry during this sobering moment, and we will continue to be there for those who require assistance for as long as the need remains.” said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy and MusiCares.

The fundraiser brought in more than $30,000 to help those in the music community that are victims of the floods.

“MusiCares, our corporate partners, and people from every corner of the music community are once again coming together to respond to an urgent need for help. It is a testament to the belief in giving back that is a hallmark of members of the music industry.” said Paul Caine, MusiCares Board Chair.

Photos Courtesy of The Recording Academy®. Photo by Maury Phillips/WireImage.com © 2010

Sources: http://www.grammy.com

In Defense Of Animals – A Night of Storytelling Benefits the Animals of Gulf Oil Spill

By JR, Special for Diversity News

On Friday, July 30, 2010 In Defense Of Animals held a fundraiser at The Strange in Los Angeles, CA from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

The event entitled “Story Time” (A night of storytelling) raised funds to assist IDA with it’s plight to help the innocent animals who fell victim of the Gulf Oil Spill.

Hosted by Actress Elaine Hendrix, the evening consisted of a silent auction, raffle tickets, drinks, h’orderves and inspirational, funny and sometimes tear jerking stories and song. There were appearances onstage by Debra Wilson, Scotlund Haisley (President of IDA), Gina La Piana, Actress Daisy Eagan, Actress Melinda Hill, Laura House, Maggie Rowe, Charlie Schlatter, Morgan Sheppard and Larry Sullivan.

Other notables in attendance were award winning director Shannon Keith, actress/musician Traci Dinwiddie, actress, hit recording artist/songwriter Fawn, Gene Blalock of The Faded and several well respected animal rights activists and rescuers.

100% of the proceeds benefitted In Defense of Animals on behalf of the animals devastated by the Gulf oil spill. To make a donation directly, visit http://www.idausa.org


About IDA: Their mission is to end animal exploitation, cruelty, and abuse by protecting and advocating for the rights, welfare, and habitats of animals, as well as to raise their status beyond mere property, commodities, or things. In Defense of Animals is a registered 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization.

Fundraisers Help ARME To Eliminate Animal Suffering‏

By JR, Special for Diversity News  

Two fundraisers benefiting ARME (Animal Rescue, Media and Education) were held last week in the Los Angeles, CA area.

On Thursday July 22, 2010 the Veggie Grill in West Hollywood gave 50% of their food sales to Arme and on Sunday July 25, 2010 there was a sale at the Beverly Grand Hotel in North Hollywood, with 15% of proceeds benefiting the foundation.  

Arme was founded by award-winning Director and animal rights lawyer Shannon Keith. Shannon has recently won some impressive accolades for her Documentary “Skin Trade.” (1st Place Best Documentary LA Movie Awards, 1st Place Best Director LA Movie Awards, The Indie Fest: Award of Merit: Feature Documentary and 2010 Critical Animal Studies Awards-Critical Animal Studies Media Of The Year). 


The mission of ARME is to eliminate the suffering of all animals. ARME rescues unwanted and homeless animals as well as educates the public about the vast extent of suffering endured in our society.  Through it’s actions and words, ARME advances the freedom of all animals.

To find out more about getting involved with ARME go to http://www.arme.tv

Editor’s Note: Congratulations to this group for speaking up on behalf of the animals.
Photos (C) 2010 FFD Images for Diversity News. All Rights Are Reserved.

Club Inspire U 3rd, Succeeds In An Evening Of Inspiration‏

By JR, special for Diversity News

It was a compelling evening with moving performances this past Saturday night, July 24, 2010 at the Club Inspire U 3rd Music Showcase held at Club Cobra in North Hollywood from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm.


Vocalists, songwriters, comedians and inspirational speakers took the stage including Rosy Donovan of Local Celebrity LA 2010, Jarid Williams of Shine On 1 and 2, Gloria Bigelow, Weather, MTV’s GG Smith, Billboard Hit Recording Artist Fawn, Kenneth Thomas, Richard Virgen, Claudine B. Said, Ian Brookfield and International Singer/Songwriter Kris Searle.

“Music invokes many different emotions such as sadness, happiness, motivation, etc. Musicians and listeners can always relate to some type of music or song and more importantly making music is a creative and effective way to deal with emotional issues.” said GG Smith.

Club Inspire U was created by Inspire U Records to create a safe haven where people feel like it’s a “home away from home” – to come to refresh, vitalize, and leave inspired.

“As soon as I could talk, I would sing. I am deeply touched by music.  The words, the emotions, the very unique and special way that songs communicate those things we cannot voice ourselves.  I am blessed with the gift to feel music for all it can be, and the gift to sing and share that same feeling with others. We are one and in music we find that universal thing that is so elusive.” said music artist Rosy Donovan.

The showcase succeeded in it’s goal to “touch, move, support and enlighten,” which is the Club Inspire U mantra.


“I can write songs that vent about problems or I can write fun songs that make me want to go out and forget my problems. I love to write songs that are controversial and touch on topics that exist, but are not discussed.” concluded Ms. Smith.

Club Inspire U Showcase is held every month and 20% of it’s proceeds go towards The American Cancer Society.  For more information go to http://www.inspireurecords.com  and http://www.clubinspireu.com


Sources: http://www.diversitynewspublications.com & FFD Images

Editor’s Note: The only problem with this kind of showcase is the they expect media oulets to pay a cover charge but they still want us to write about it. Also they need to hire a goood promoter who knows how to get more people at the venue and the artists needs to bring fans to support their performance.

Over 300 People Protest The Circus with Actress Olivia Munn At The Staples Center

By Songirl Sez, Special for Diversity News

The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus returned to Los Angeles this week beginning with a pre-dawn parade of Asian elephants from Union Station on Tuesday, July 13, 2020 to the Staples Center.  to open the Circus on Wednesday, July 14, 2010.

Shows for the Circus ran Wednesday, July 14 to through Sunday, July 18, 2010.

Animal rights activists, members of In Defense of Animals, Animal Acres, Last Chance for Animals, Peta, and several Entertainment Industry personalities including Actress Olivia Munn, Actress Shira Scott, Recording Artist Gene Blalock of The Faded, Recording Artist Fawn,  Fashion Photographer Melissa Schwartz and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, came out in droves (over 300 strong) to protest the Infamous Circus and their treatment of animals. It was estimated to be the largest protest against the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus to date. 

Demonstrators were peaceful, yet strong in their position as they marched, chanted, raised their voices, handed out educational information and stood outside the Staples Center in front of ticket holders in line. Their protests created such a stir, that 4 families decided to ask for ticket refunds once they realized why protesters were so upset. One of the families demanding for their money back said that their children saw all the protesters and asked “Why do they have pictures of the baby elephants tied up? We don’t want to see the baby elephants if they do that.” Another family, smiling after deciding to turn in their tickets stated “It feels good.”
Protesters were calling for a boycott of the Circus based on the disturbing photos that had been turned over to PETA. Several such photos were held by protesters for the crowd to see. PETA is now using these photos to file a complaint with the USDA (US Department of Agriculture) against Ringling Bros. to have their exhibitor license revoked.
 

You may ask youself, why boycott the Circus? Recording Artist Fawn stated: “Ringling Brothers has a horrifying track record for abusing their elephant performers. It is my belief that if the children of this world knew what it takes for the animals to ‘do tricks’ and ‘perform’ for the audience, they wouldn’t WANT to come to the Circus!” Actress Olivia Munn told reporters “This is the largest Ringling Bros. Boycott ever, so it’s very exciting. Now that you know what they’re doing, you just can’t sit there and laugh and cheer. Go do something else with your money. Boycott the Circus and also realize it’s not 1920.”

Ringling trainers routinely jab, prod, hook, and strike elephants with a bull hook (a steel-tipped device that looks similar to a fireplace poker). They use it to control large animals and force them to perform unnatural acts. Typically, these abuses occur out of public view. Protesters had such bull hooks on hand to demonstrate how sharp, heavy, ominous and destructive these instruments are. Evidence including court documents, undercover videos, and photos of training sessions with baby elephants shows that Ringling routinely chains elephants in train box cars for more than 26 hours at a time, for as long as 60-100 hours without a break while traveling across the country for weeks at a time and they physically abuse elephants with electric shock devices and bull hooks, including one elephant who was “dripping blood all over the arena floor from being hooked.” There is also evidence that they train baby elephants through isolation from other elephants, prolonged restraint by tying their legs and hitting them with bull hooks. Linda Hogan, ex-wife of Hulk Hogan explained “This is something from back in the 1800′s. A lot of people are uneducated, it’s time to educate people.”

Humane Educator Ciddy Fonteboa offered another alternative to the Circus for animal lovers — the non-profit safe haven for animals, Animal Acres. Ciddy explained, “I feel that any business that supports animal suffering to profit from the public is also supporting violence and at Animal Acres, we support true freedom and peace for the animals that are rescued from cruelty cases. We give them the opportunity to be happy with out having to perform and entertain people.” She continued to explain “At Animal Acres children and people get to see that there is no difference from these rescued farm animals than the family dog. They have the same needs that all living beings on this earth do. ” Indeed they do. To find out more go to www.animalacres.org and http://www.peta.org

The protest was held at the same times from July 14, 2010 at 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm until Sunday, July 18, 2010. Ringling Bros representatives was not available for comment.

The Treasure Box (Food) A Solution During This Recession

As you all know the recession is not over yet and many of us (including writers and people from the entertainment industry) have to adjust our budget in expending less including food.

On June 30, 2010 Paul Magers and Pat Harvey of CBS 2 Los Angeles reported in their 11:00 pm news section about a company named Good Source Solutions the have created “The Treasure Box.” We checked CBS 2 website As Seen on TV (http://cbs2.com/tv) and we found The Treasure Box company website http://www.thetreasurebox.org/
Per The Treasure Box website their mission is to provides families and individuals with a substantial box of grocery store quality food retailing between $65-100 for just $30 each. The Treasure Box cultivates relationships with more than 500 major food manufacturers across the country to purchase and provide top quality, nutritious food at sizeable volume discounts to the general public.
They have the The Treasure Box (Monthly Menu for 1 person or can feed 4 person for 1 week) for$30, The Hearty Meat Protein Box for $30, The Quick & Healthy Meal Box for$30 and even the Kids Box for$30.
The Treasure Box program is available to every one it doesn’t matter your income criteria.
Hurry and share the great news with every one, your friends, family, co-workers about this alternative to deal with financial hardship especially the  recession.


You can purchase a Treasure Box online with major credit card. You can visit for more information, to find a location to pick up your food or order at  http://www.thetreasurebox.org/ The Treasure Box is also on Facebook and Twitter

Sources: CBS 2 Los Angeles, ABC 7 Los Angeles and The Treasure Box

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