NOH8 Campaign Finally An Approved Non Profit Organization in CA

Almost after 2 years and much questioning, the NOH8 Organization founders Adam Bouska and Jeff Parshley finally decided to legalize their organization as a non profit. Per the CA Attorney General, the organization was approved for non profit status on November 5, 2010.

Also on May 12, 2010, they filed IRS form 990 EZ and even requested an extension to file taxes for the term of 08/17/2009 to 12/31/2009 and it was due November 15, 2010 which it was granted by IRS and this documents are available by law for public inspection. Now the organization needs to file again IRS form 990 EZ for the term 1/1/2010 to 12/31/2010 and so on each year.


On March 6, 2011 http://www.estergoldberg.com reported that that the NOH8 campaign posted their latest collage of over 10,000 pictures. Also she stated “I started doing the math..and theres an amazing amount cash that allegedly seems to have taken in at 40 bucks a whack…10,000 pics at $40 is about $400,000 and that doesn’t include merchandising – tshirts and donations.. do the math.”
Read the complete story at http://www.estergoldberg.com/views_from_a_broad/2011/03/noh8-has-taken-over-10000-pics-over-400000-where-is-all-this-money-going-just-asking.html?cid=6a0105349ca980970c014e5faf02b4970c

Here in the Golden State of CA the person who regulates non profit organizations is the Attorney General. Some of the rules the apply are 1. No blood relatives can be involved 2. Conflict of interest is a big issue 3. They need to report every year to IRS and provide a copy of their Income Tax to the Attorney General. 5. The IRS Income Tax must be publicized on their website and be available for the public inspection 6. Non profits who do not follow guidelines can be shut down and all their assets will be transferred to a similar organization 7. A non profit is not your business, it is a public entity.

The NOH8 Campaign IRS reports are not showing the truth. They reported $44,644 as total earnings and $37,491 as expenditures. They also said Adam Bouska works 30 hours and his boyfriend Jeff Parshley works 20 hours. These numbers do not make sense either.


Sandra Block from USA Today reports on September 25, 2001 that unscrupulous and questionable charities tend to emerge whenever a crisis occurs. She also provides the following tips to the consumer: Give to charities with an established track record and a history of sound fiscal management. Ignore e-mail solicitations for donations. Legitimate charities generally avoid using spam to raise money. Never make an on-the-spot decision to give to charity. If you receive a phone call, or someone comes to your door soliciting money, ask for information about the charity. Conduct your own research before you give. Don’t give out personal financial data over the phone to someone claiming to represent a charity. The caller may be a con artist seeking to steal your credit card number or other financial information. Don’t give cash. When you make a cash donation, write a check to the charitable organization, not the individual who is soliciting money. The check also will provide a record if you want to deduct the contribution on your tax returns. Be wary of telemarketers soliciting money for families of police or firefighters. Be wary of charitable tie-ins or companies selling flags and other products who have promised to donate part of the profits to victims’ families. Don’t buy unless the company specifically says how much it will donate. If the promotion claims to benefit a specific charity, check with that charity to see if it authorized the promotion. If you donate online using a credit card, do it through trusted web sites. Don’t ignore other worthy causes. The flood of contributions to victims’ relief funds may reduce donations to unrelated charitable groups. With the economy in a downturn, many of these organizations need your help more than ever. The American Institute of Philanthropy, a charity watchdog group, suggests making a contribution to an unrelated charity in honor of the disaster victims.
To read the complete story visit http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/columnist/block/2001-09-25-block.htm

According to IRS regulations, any non-profit organization has to produce its returns (Form 990) in-person if asked for on the same day of the request.
Many people have been endorsing and even donating services, products and money to the NOH8 Campaign founders and staff but they were not a legitimate organization until November 5, 2010.

Again on January 29, 2010 http://estergoldberg.typepad.com wrote on her site asking: WHERE IS ALL THE MONEY BEING Spent or USED on the NOH8 campaign? Could someone please answer this question?? She continues supporting her position by stating, “A few years ago..one of the THE AIDS RIDE charities..dealt with a situation where so much money was made through donations and people riding for a cure..and went into executive salaries..and it hurt so many..who gave from their hearts…not realizing most of their money never went to “the cause”.
You can read her complete story at http://estergoldberg.typepad.com/views_from_a_broad/2010/01/where-is-all-the-money-being-spentor-used-for-on-the-noh8-campaign-could-someone-please-answer-this-.html?cid=6a0105349ca980970c0128773417ec970c
Dasche Bledsoe, Publisher/Editor from The Star Celeb wrote a comment on Esther’s blog stating “It says they are seeking…does that mean they don’t have yet? If not they are not allowed to be accepting donations. If so you may have to check into for confirmation, but I’m pretty sure they have to provide the information as to where the money is going whenever asked….I believe in the cause and I support it but not via shady people”.

On their website http://www.noh8campaign.com it states: “The NOH8 Campaign is an approved 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization.
Funds raised by the NOH8 Campaign will be used to continue promoting and raising awareness for Marriage Equality and anti-discrimination on a global level through an educational and interactive media campaign”.
Wikipedia also reports that The NOH8 Campaign is a silent protest photo project against California Proposition 8. The campaign features photographs portraying people in front of a white backdrop wearing white t-shirts, their mouths taped shut and “NOH8″ painted on their cheeks. The campaign was created on February 1, 2009 by photographer Adam Bouska and Jeff Parshley.

The controversy with the NOH8 Campaign started from the begginning and that is when radio personality Allen Edwards from Pride Nation Radio wrote on November 17, 2009 the following statement “I’ve always made it clear on how I feel about the No H8 ad campaign. I think we’re spending too much time focusing on the photos rather than the cause.” You can read Allen posting by visiting his site at http://www.pridenation.com/blogs/entry/Can-I-Hate-the-No-H8-Campaign-
In response to the NOH8 Campaign Pride Nation from AEU Media Group, LLC created NO HATE NO TAPE site http://pridenation.com/notape/ with the following message “Because our community has a long way to go, the fight is not over. The solution is not to fashion photos with duct tape on our mouths. Imagine if Martin Luther King walked into a photo booth with duct tape. This website is to be proactive, productive and to make a difference”.

On 3-17-2011, To do a fair story we call the NOH8 Campaign office and we also email the following request to: info@noh8campaign.com; Adam Bouska, Jeff Parshley and  press@noh8campaign.com asking to provide to me the following: A list of the organization names, date of donations, amount and contact information that the NOH8 Campaign have made donations. On the same day we received the following email response from: info@noh8campaign.com stating “Hi Esteban; Thank you for your inquiry.  As an official 501(c)(3) organization, the NOH8 Campaign is a charitable organization whose mission is to promote marriage, gender and human equality through education, advocacy, social media, and visual protest. Our 501(c)(3) status defines the scope of our activities, and we do not participate in political campaigns. While we have made donations to organizations that share our vision, we are not a foundation and do not fund other organizations. Again, thank you for your interest and support of the NOH8 Campaign.  We would be happy to provide any further information for your article. For expediency, please submit your requests via email. You may also find it helpful to visit our website at www.noh8campaign.com.Yours very truly, The NOH8 Campaign.”

What can we tell you if you go to an organization website they will never disclose any negative information about them, a least we gave them the opportunity to have a voice on this article.

As you may have read, there are supporters and non supporters of the organization and lots of questions that have not been answered.
As you may see on the NOH8 Campaign website they even have an online store selling merchandise. Hundreds of people have been fooled by the organization in the beginning, including big media outlets. Only recently were they legitimately approved as a non profit organization. Please see pictures on this story and documents in PDF files since we contacted them and started investigating them.1078015 – 08172009 – 12312009 NOH8 IRS Renewal, 1078016 – 990EZ for 8-09 to 12-09 NOH8 Campaign, Attorney General CONFIRMATION OF REGISTRATION

IMPORTANT EDUCATION AND KEY INFORMATION:
The California Attorney General has primary responsibility for regulating, enforcing and supervising organizations and individuals that administer and/or solicit charitable funds or assets in California. The Attorney General has the duty to protect donors to charity, charities themselves and the beneficiaries of charities. In addition, the Attorney General has broad authority under State statutes to regulate charitable organizations and trusts and to commence law enforcement investigations and legal actions to protect the public interest.

OWNERSHIP:
A nonprofit organization, in a sense, is “owned” by the public. No private person can claim ownership or control of the organization. The assets of a nonprofit organization are irrevocably dedicated to charitable, educational, literary, scientific, or religious purposes. That means the nonprofit’s cash, equipment, and other property cannot be given to anyone or used for anyone’s private benefit without fair market compensation to the organization. Moreover, a nonprofit’s property is permanently to be used for exempt purposes. When and if the organization decides to dissolve, any assets remaining after the debts and liabilities are paid must go to another nonprofit organization—not to members of the former organization or other private individuals.

Some Basic Steps For Incorporation Of A Public Benefit Corporation:
Choose a corporate name, Draft and file articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State, File federal application for employer identification number (EIN) with the IRS, File a statement by domestic nonprofit corporation, Register with the Attorney General’s Registry of Charitable Trust & File application for exemption from federal income taxes with the IRS and state income taxes with the California Franchise Tax Board.

What Is 501(c)(3) Status?
A section 501(c)(3) organization must be “organized and operated exclusively for religious, charitable, scientific, testing for public safety, literary or educational purposes.” To qualify, an organization must satisfy an organizational test and an operational test. The organizational test is met if the articles of incorporation include language limiting the purposes of the organization to one or more of the exempt purposes set forth in section 501(c)(3) and do not empower the organization to engage in any substantial activities which do not further one or more exempt purposes. In addition,the organizational documents (or applicable state law) must require the organization to expressly dedicate its assets to exempt purposes in the event of a dissolution.

Fundraising campaign in California?
Prior to soliciting any charitable donations, a commercial fundraiser must register with the Registry of Charitable Trusts on a form provided by the Attorney General, pay a fee of $350, and obtain a $25,000 bond. The commercial fundraiser must renew that registration and bond annually and pay a fee of $350. A commercial fundraiser must also file an annual financial report with the Attorney General accounting for funds collected during the preceding year.Registration or licensing may also be required in various California cities and counties. There are more than 200 cities and counties that require charity fundraisers to comply with local licensing and disclosure requirements.

Solicitations Law: BUSINESS LICENSE COMMISSION
(Los Angeles County Code, Volume 3, Title 7, Chapter 7-24 requires that this Notice of Intention to be filed at least 30 days prior to beginning your solicitation or advertisement for your fund-raising activity. No advertisement or solicitation may begin until this office has issued an Information Card.

Solicitations Information Card:
An Information Card is issued by the Los Angeles Police Commission Charitable Services Section, Commission Investigation Division upon review of the Notice of Intention[PDF] to solicit charitable contributions by a requesting charitable organization. The Information Card provides important information to the donor so they may make an educated decision whether to support that organization.

For more information visit:
IRS (Federal tax exemption and reporting compliance)
http://www.irs.gov/

California Franchise Tax Board (California tax exemption)
http://www.ftb.ca.gov/

California Secretary of State (Filing articles of incorporation, Annual Statement of Officers)
http://www.ss.ca.gov/

California Employment Development Department (California payroll taxes)
http://www.edd.ca.gov

California Attorney General’s Charitable Trusts website:
http://www.ag.ca.gov/charities/

Philanthropic Research, Inc. (Guidestar) - http://www.guidestar.org

Federal Trade Commission
http://www.ftc.gov

Photos: Facebook, Ester Goldberg, PN Radio

Editor’s Note: Story was proofread by Linda Krongold, our New York, NY Special Correspondent For Diversity News. For more information you can contact her at andmeljar@aol.com. This article is nothing personal against founders Adam Bouska and Jeff Parshley.  We want to wish The NOH8 Campaign good luck, but keep in mind the we are looking after you. These article tt is just to educate and inform our readers and consumers that before they believe in or give money to unscrupulous and questionable charities to please question them. Ask before you give, check facts, contact government entities and make sure the most of the money goes toward the cause not to the pockets of the founders, directors or their blood relatives. We hope other non profit founders or organizers follow the NOH8 Campaign footsteps to legalized their status too.

2011 Human Rights Campaign Los Angeles Dinner and Awards Gala

At a new elegant venue in the center of downtown LA, The Human Rights Campaign Los Angeles Steering Committee held the 2011 Human Rights Campaign Los Angeles Dinner and Awards Gala.

Approximatively 1000 HRC supporters showed at the event, including celebrities, politicians, media representatives, and volunteers. Selected celebrities and personalities walked the red carpet.

Joe Solmonese, HRC President came from Washington, D.C. and spoke at the event. He talked about the challenges, accomplishments and success stories during 2010. He also introduced Craig Stowell to all the members. Craig Stowell is known as a conservative Republican who spoke about the challenges facing the gay community and his support for his gay brother Calvin Stowell. Also, honoree Eric Alva spoke about the membership benefits of HRC and the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT) Repeal Act signed by President Barack Obama on December 23, 2010.

The award recipients were  Scarlett Johansson and Patrick Murphy who both received an Ally for Equality Award; and Rabbi Denise Eger and Rev. Canon Susan Russell who received the HRC Community Equality Award.

Some of the celebrities and personalities who posed on the red carpet were Andy Arnold, Clare Thomas, Betty DeGeneres, Eric Alva, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Natasha Alam, Patrick J. Murphy, Rabbi Denise L. Eger, Rev. Susan Russell, Chef Stuart O’Keeffe, Chelsea Montgomery, Los Angeles City Controller Wendy Greuel, Michael Manning, Craig & Calvin Stowell.

The event was held on Saturday, March 12, 2011 from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm at the Ritz-Carlton/JW Marriott L.A. Live at 900 West Olympic Blvd in Los Angeles, CA.

About The HRC Los Angeles Gala: The HRC Los Angeles Gala is one of the largest LGBT fundraising events in Southern California, drawing more than 1,000 guests in past years, including national LGBT leaders in entertainment, community service, business and politics. For more information visit http://www.hrcladinner.com/

About Human Rights Campaign: Founded in 1980, The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. For more information about the organization visit http://www.hrc.org

Photos Courtesy of Celebrity Photographer Daniela Hubbard from Daniela Hubbard Photography & Events/Celebrity Photographer Rodrigo Vaz from Rodrigo Vaz Photos for Los Angeles County Events Examiner & Diversity News Magazine. (C) 2011 By Rodrigo Vaz & Diversity News Publications.

Sources: HRC LA & HRC.org, PrPhotos.com, Diversity News Magazine

Editor’s Note: Story was proofread by Linda Krongold, our New York, NY Special Correspondent For Diversity News. For more information you can contact her andmeljar@aol.com.

Also article was published first on The LA County Events Examiner page of Examiner.com

Sorry but our photographers were not allowed inside the dinner and awards presentation, so whatever we are reporting is for the access provided only to cover the red carpet arrivals. Speak up your mind, please leave your comments and feel free to contact writer at: diversitynews@hotmail.com

MMPA Pre-GRAMMY Celebration Honoring Eric Zuley Benefiting American Society of Young Musicians

Over 300 guests, celebrities, executives, supporters, friends, and media outlet representatives attended the Multicultural Motion Picture Association (MMPA) Hollywood Pre-GRAMMY Celebration Honoring Eric Zuley Benefiting American Society of Young Musicians.

This was held at the Celebrity Center on Thursday, February 10, 2011 in Hollywood, CA from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The event was hosted by comedian Johnny V.


“I feel a sense of accomplishment for all my hard work. I feel very humbled. I feel very blessed and thankful that the MMPA and the City and County of LA would think to acknowledge my hard work. I am very thankful to my fans and friends that showed up to support me. I was very amazed and humbled when I saw the support that came that night.” said Eric Zuley AKA EZ, Entrepreneur and Media Mogul.


He continued, “I would like to thank Jarvee Hutcherson, my father James Zuley, my good friends Chris Donovan, Doug Jones, Said Faraj, Camden Toy, Brian Krause, Kim Lee, Lil Jordan, Pamela Bach Hasselhoff, and Johnny V. I would like to thank my team, Derrick Hutchinson for handling all the fashion stuff, Dona the owner of Rouge Clothing, and my PR person Betrice Coleman Sweet for helping pull everything together. I would like to thank my sponsors, Tutto Italy Connections, Frank Rubio Jewelry, Elite Auto Network for providing me with the car I came in, the suit I wore and the jewelry I wore. Oh, and all my friends and supporters!”

Some of the celebrities and personalities that attended the event were Doug Jones (Fantastic 4: Rise of the Silver Surfer, Pans Labyrinth), James Zuley (Eric’s dad), Pamela Bach Hasselhoff (Baywatch), Kate Linder (The Young and the Restless) Andrew Garcia (American Idol), Charm Britton (VH1), Ser’Darius Blaine (Footloose), JD Charisma (Actor,Artist), Dave Shelton(Writer, director), Bill Zucker (Writer, Director), Camden Toy (Actor, Producer), Said Faraj (Green Zone), Lil Zane (Hip Hop Artist), Odain Watson(Artist), Ranella (Artist), Brian Krause (Actor), Kim Lee (International Model, Actress), J Myles (celebrity Stylist), Phoebe Price, Lil Jordan, Ben Morrison, Prince Ali, Al Walser, Chris Donovan (Director of Golden Globe Awards), Lil Mirkk (Actor/Rapper), David Harrison Levi (Philanthropist/Personality), Dick Michaels(ASYM Chairman), Ryan Torres(Avenue Entertainment), Parris Harris and many more.


“I think it was an extraordinary turnout with some extraordinary stars for an extraordinary man” said Betrice Coleman-Sweet, Publicist. The event featured live performances from upcoming pop group Misha Rose, hip hop artist Lil Jordan, pop artist Destenee and R&B artist Rele.


Eric Zuley concluded by thanking all the media that covered his event. “All the media that showed up and supported me, most of which are personal friends thank you so much! Thank you Diversity News Magazine & Diversity News TV (Steven Escobar) long time friend, all the performers, Destenee Mckenzie, Rele Songs, Lil Jordan and others.”


There was also a fashion show coordinated by Derrick Hutchinson of Annerick Management models showcasing Rouge Clothing by Donna Melikian/Bebe, Rings designed by Frank G. Rubio from Sophisticated Stones and custom Tuxedos by Max Simonian from Tutto Italy Connections.


“Eric is a great friend has been for the past year and a half and deserved his recognition. Thanks to Diversity News, The World Monitor TV, Johhny V, Devon Guzzie, Ryan Torres, Beatrice who treated me very well from finish to start, The Actors Reporter, Doug Jones, Frank Rubio of Sophisicated Stones All The Fashion designers, All the media, and it was a great night, very well arranged. I wish I could repeat that night.” said Actor/Rapper Lil Mirkk.

Eric Zuley received a distinguished Achievement Award from The MMPA for his charitable contributions to the entertainment industry. He was also awarded a Certificate of Recognition from the City of Los Angeles County District 2 Supervisor, Mark Ridley-Thomas.

Other award recipients were Max Simonian of Tutto Italy Connections, Frank G. Rubio Jewelry Designer and The Celebrity Center. Per event organizers, they accomplished their goal of raising some money to benefit the American Society of Young Musicians.

Some of the media and photographers that covered the event were Actors Reporter (Pepper Jay & Mary Jo Gruber) , Diversity News Magazine, Diversity News TV, PR Photos photographer Allen Allen Berezovsky, Wireimage Photographer Maury Phillips, Hollywood Broker TV, NTDTV, World Monitor TV, Rock Thiz Magazine, Nelson Photo and Five Minute Photo (Travis Jourdain).

The major sponsors of the event were Bebe/Rouge Clothing, Tutto Italy Connections, Frank Rubio, Elite Auto Network, Yerevan Magazine, WTV NETWORKS and TheEZShow.com. The event producers were Jarvee Hutcherson, Eric Zuley and Derrick Hutcherson. After the event concluded, over 150 people went to celebrate with Eric Zuley at My House in Hollywood, CA.

For more information about American Society of Young Musicians (ASYM) visit http://www.asymusicians.org

Photos Courtesy and © 2011 By Allen Berezovsky, from PRPhotos.com & Star Pics Today, Nelson Shen Photos & Travis Jourdain.

Editor’s Note: Story was proofread by Linda Krongold, our New York, NY Special Correspondent For Diversity News. For more information you can contact her at andmeljar@aol.com Also please leave us your comments and questions about our coverage an the event.

Maria Amor’s Media/Press Appreciation and Launching of Exotifit TV, Jan. 29, 2011

It is rare for an organization to appreciate or thank the press/media outlets who help them promote a figure, service or product.

However, this past Saturday, January 29, 2011, entrepreneur Maria Amor took the initiative by celebrating “Media Appreciation and Launching of Exotifit TV” at her estate in Tarzana, CA.


“I wanted to thank the media for the support and love they have shown throughout the year. we couldn’t do without them.” Said Maria Amor, Founder & owner of Exotifit.


At this event, all media/press representatives were told to just enjoy themselves and relax because they work so hard all the time. Maria Amor and her Exoti-Angels cooked healthy food for everyone, and there was lots of fun, socializing, networking opportunities, music, drinks and even karaoke opportunities for the guests. The event was held from 5:00 till 12 am.

Maria and her Exoti-Angels awarded the following certificates of appreciation: Exoti-Humanitarian award to David Harrison Levi, Exoti-Photographer to Diana Ligon, Exoti-Media to Buddy Sampson, Exoti-Friend to Travis Jourdain, and Exoti-Family to Hayavi Moradi II.

At this event there was also an official launching celebration for Exotifit TV where the Exoti-Angels shared with their fans, clients and friends how to be exotic and stay fit at the same time. Per Ms. Amor more than 100 people/press/media came to the event. Ms. Amor told the crew of media/press that this was just one of many events planned to thank them for all their support.


About Exotifit:
“It’s the sexiest workout ever”, says Maria Amor, founder of Exotifit, which blends diverse styles of musical dance with an invigorating soundtrack that gets you dancing to the rhythm. It’s far from a boring and unmotivating workout; it’s sexy. Exotifil is taught by Maria and some of her ExotiAngels, a sister group comprised of some students and teachers who also perform at large functions and conventions such as the California Gift show and LA Fitness Expo. Exotifit offers classes in groups or via private tutelage and also offers teacher certification for those interested in teaching Exotifit classes. Maria Amors’ Exotifit isn’t just a sexy and affordable workout for adults, but it’s a fun and energetic routine for children as well. Dances featured are African, salsa, cha-cha, tango, belly-dancing and many more. If you are looking for a fun, motivating workout, rush to your local fitness center for an Exotifit. For more information visit http://www.exotifit.com

Photos Courtesy and (C) 2011 by Celebrity and Events photographer Francois Palais for Los Angeles County Events Examiner and Diversity News Magazine.



Editor’s Note: We want to congratulate all media/press who received an award at the event. We wish them the best of luck. Story was proofread by Linda Krongold, our New York, NY Special Correspondent For Diversity News. For more information you can contact her at andmeljar@aol.com

Pre-Grammy Awards Party Benefiting Toys for Tots in Hollywood

The line to the Highlands Night Club was long, from the entrance to the venue to the electric stairs. Lots of actors, actress, publicists, agents, managers, recording artists and media representatives watched history unveil at David Harrison Levi’s Pre-Grammy and Birthday Celebration to raise Cancer Awareness and benefit Toys for Tots.


“The evening was filled with Love, Fun & Excitement. David did a very Honorable thing by sharing his birthday with both Toys for Tots & Breast Cancer Awareness. Everyone there seemed really happy to come together as a Community to celebrate this ‘Joyful’ occasion.” Said Tish “Tha Dish” Roberts, Actress.


Lots of things were happening inside the highland. Many of those who wanted to get their picture taken and be interviewed walked to the patio on 3 red carpets ready to be set up, and others went to get ready for the stage performance. There was so much happening that it was hard to catch all the movements, so we will highlight some of them. David Harrison Levi opened the night by welcoming everyone and introducing recording artists to perform, while others made a line for the red carpet.


“I am honored that somebody feels the need to publicly acknowledge my efforts in supporting this great city in any way I can. Change always bothers somebody but I can’t let that stop me in my goal in helping stop run-away film productions and businesses.” Said Tony Boldi, Honorary Mayor of Hollywood. He continue “Parking is also a huge problem for the tax paying and voting citizens as well as many other issues I have openly discussed. I know it’s a long road but have the support of many and feel the need to say something with or without a title…hope this helps shed some light on the issue.”


Per Mr. Harrison, over 2100 people attended to celebrate his event at the Highlands, including over 80 media outlets representatives. The event was held from 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM at The Highlands Nightclub on Wednesday, January 19, 2011 located at 6801 Hollywood Blvd 4TH Floor Hollywood, CA 90028.


Some of the celebrities and personalities who attended the event were: Actress Tish Roberts from (“Stand In”, NBC’S hit T.V. show “Community”, “Criminal Minds Suspect Behavior”, “True Blood” and “Lie To Me” with Tim Roth) with producer /DJ Trevi, Actress Thushari Jayasekera (play role as Pinky on NBC’s Outsourced TV Show), John Carvalho, Ph.D. (Advocate for the LGBT Arts, Music and Entertainment Scene; HRC Political Action Committee; CSUDH Senator), Maria Amor (EXOTIFIT), Ernesto J. Higuera (Executive , “Gay Los Angeles”), Michael Westman (Executive , “Gay Los Angeles”), German Angel (CEO, World Video Television), Carlos Anthony (Hollywood Broker Television), Tony Boldi (Honorary Mayor of Hollywood, California), Hayavi Moradi (International DJ/Agent/Producer and Promoter), Kris Searle (Grammy Nominee Considered International Recording Artist and Four Time Los Angeles Music Award Winner), Pepper MaShay (International DIVA), Willie Ames (Los Angeles Music Award Winning Recording Artist), Rob EC (Electropop Recording Artist and Member of the Recording Academy), Michael Donahue (Movie Director), Tom Tangen (Movie Producer/Actor), Trey McCurley (Actor), Eric Rowland (Recording Artist), Justin Chase (Recording Artist), Lui Attanasi (Recording Artist), Ivan Strada (Recording Artist), Charles Anthony (Co-Producer WeHo Knights Television; Recording Artist), Collen Henderson (West Hollywood Real Estate Agent), Murray Swanby (Events Host for Planet Salon), Scotty Aspen (Fox Television), Chad Evans, Ryan Pasquelatto, Jeffrey Paine (West Hollywood Real Estate Agent), Tyrone Power (celebrity-cocoon movies), Carla Power, Ray M. Quiroga (Producer/Actor), Norma A. G. Quiroga , Michael Quiroga, Steven Woo (Co-producer, Motion Picture “The Extra”), Jimmy Dux (Model), Yessica Hernandez (Singer), Marielena Castaneda (Actress), Lucino Ortiz (Assistant to Model), Ladd Jackson, Ian Shapiro, Jon Roo, Mirella Orduno (Actress), Fernando Gonzalez (Financial Investor for movies), Miriam Ayala Cesena (Actress), Rebeca Lopez (Artist), Fernando Trujillo (Artist), Parris Harris (Fashion Designer),Travis Jourdain (Celebrity Photographer), Jeff Knight (Celebrity Photographer), The Sydney Collection, Tom Slack (Producer; Recording Artist), Eric Ronald Kandell (Fashion Model), Eric Zuley (EZ TV), Patty McCall (author of Unmasking the Pain Within, Actress/Producer), Dr. Mark Valinsky (Actor/Producer/Photographer), Stephanie Weaver (Film distributor), Justin Keisel, Stuart Guest (Recording Artist), Cher Rue (Actress) and Andre Agazaryan (Actor).


“The Grammy Awards Pre-Party at The Highlands-Kodak Theater was a success by any standard. In the words of Actor Michael Quiroga, ‘it was a great introduction to Hollywood culture!’ Indeed, security informed me on the night of the event that an incredible 2,132 people attended, which is a significant number given that most were Hollywood celebrities, political dignitaries, and entertainment industry professionals. Members of the Screen Actors Guild and Lions Club attended, as did a wealth of actors, recording artists (including members of the Grammys), movie directors and producers. The performances by DIVA Pepper MaShay and Ditch were excellent, and the “Sydney Collection” fashion show was stunning and well orchestrated by Parris Harris. I want to congratulate Tony Boldi for receiving the Honorary Mayorship of Hollywood and David Harrison Levi for putting on such an exciting, marquee red carpet event. I also want to give a special thanks to the West Hollywood LGBT community that came out in droves to attend. Finally, a special shout out is deserved for Steven Escobar and Diversity News Magazine, German Angel and World Video Television, Hollywood Broker TV, AK Photography, Celebrity Photographer Travis Jourdain, and Ernesto J. Higuera and Michael Westman, whose photographs and media coverage made the event come alive!” Said Dr. John Carvalho (Advocate for the LGBT Arts, Music and Entertainment Scene in West Hollywood, HRC PAC, CSUDH Senator).


“I believe tonight’s event at the Highlands is an excellent way that up and coming artists in the entertainment industry can meet advanced professionals and collaborate on projects that will promote and enhance their careers. The economy has hit the nation hard, and it is events like these that help to reenergize the entertainment industry and further the lives of younger artists. In addition, David Levi is promoting breast cancer awareness, which is a worthy cause we can all agree to support.” Dr. Carvalho concluded.

“My Pre-Grammy Awards Birthday Extravaganza attended by almost 2500 friends was successful in that it sent an important message throughout Facebook, MySpace, Twitter etc. that the “REAL” message of the event was raising awareness to breast cancer. Each time a lady see’s this status, it clearly sends a positive reminder to have an annual check-up – that early diagnosis & proper treatment saves lives. I have so many beautiful friends who have been diagnosed, treated & remain Stage 4 Breast Cancer Survivors but some are NOT so lucky! my mission is simple ” I want to see an END to cancer ~ I am tired & saddened by the loss of so many beautiful friends & family members ~ Early detection IS the key to saving lives! When I pass on, I would like to be remembered for the “good” I tried to do while on Earth. I ask that You don’t believe in me but believe in my cause I am so very passionate about. Cancer is killing our family & friends. It is affecting 1 out of every 8 men, women & children, globally and Awareness IS the very key to saving lives. It is with your support that keeps this MOST important message alive. We are all in this together! Life is short – be good to one another! Peace” Said David Harrison Levi – STARMAKER. Mr. Harrison concluded, “In addition we were able to collect some 600 toys & canned food items for the USMC Toys For Tots & the Los Angeles Mission – so YES It was a VERY successful event”.


Photos Courtesy and (C) 2011 by Celebrity Photographer Gisele Reibeiro from PartyBy5.com & PrPhotos.com and Francois Palais for Diversity News Publications. (C) 2011 By Diversity News Publications. For Licensing please email diversitynewspublications@hotmail.com All Rights Are Reserved.

Editor’s Note: Story was proofread by Linda Krongold, our New York, NY Special Correspondent For Diversity News. For more information you can contact her at andmeljar@aol.com

Writer’s Corner: Please take a minute to comment on this article, share it and subscribe to my page.

DIVERSITY NEWS MAGAZINE TOP 10 Stories Of 2010

The Top 10 Stories of 2010 were selected in the following categories: Hits/Views, Twits, Comments, News makers marketing, and some staff selection. The reports starts from January 1, 2010 to December 30, 2010. Also, data shows that the top 15 countries that are reading our magazine are: 1. USA, 2. Canada, 3. United Kingdom, 4. Brazil, 5. Germany, 4. France, 5. Philippines, 6. Australia, 7. Indonesia, 8. India, 9. Netherlands, 10. Russia, 11. Italy, 12. Romania, 13. Switzerland, 14. Mexico and 15. Spain. As of 12-29-2010, Diversity News Magazine has reached close to 2 million readers, views, and hits with the help of the top referring sites: Google, PinkBrasil, Facebook, Current, Yahoo, WTV Online, Newmusicianvideos, Bing and LinkedIn.


We are happy and proud to bring you back once again the stories that take our publication in many directions. Please take your pick and share it with everyone on Facebook, Twitter, My Space, LinkedIn and other social media networks. Thank You.


1. Justin Bieber Wins Big and Takes 4 Awards at The American Music Awards 2010.
At the age of just 16 years Justin Bieber, he wins 4 American Music Awards; he is the youngest singer to win them.

http://diversitynewspublications.com/2010/11/justin-bieber-wins-big-and-takes-4-awards-at-the-american-music-awards-2010/


2. USA President Barack Obama Signed The Unemployment Insurance Extension.
President Barack Obama makes history by giving back a relief to the people that elected him to win the presidency and because he wants the economy to come back to regular status.

http://diversitynewspublications.com/2010/07/usa-president-barack-obama-signed-the-unemployment-insurance-extension/


3. Extra Mario Lopez’s Private Rooftop Birthday Party Benefiting Rally For Kids.
Controversy can sometimes make you or take you; in this case this event was advertised as Mario Lopez’ Birthday Bash, but things went in different directions and later changes were made that created a big controversy.

http://diversitynewspublications.com/2010/10/extra-mario-lopezs-private-rooftop-birthday-party-benefiting-rally-for-kids/


4. 2010 2nd Annual Hollywood Brazilian Film Festival.
Covering this event was worthy because it was classy and the people who came were well known in the Latin Community.

http://diversitynewspublications.com/2010/02/2010-2nd-annual-hollywood-brazilian-film-festival/

5. Beverly Hills Mayor Jimmy Delshad presents Proclamation to David Harrison Levi.
Another controversy in covering this event; people reached out to us and called us many names. They thought Mr. Levi did not deserve this high recognition from Mayor Delshad. People, Mr. David Harrison Levi is not hurting anyone, he is helping the community by raising awareness on Cancer. At least he is educating people and not doing any bad criminal acts. Just join forces and accept the he is raising awareness that Cancer is a killer and I can tell you that many of us will die of Cancer, Liver Damage or AIDS/HIV.

http://diversitynewspublications.com/2010/05/beverly-hills-mayor-jimmy-delshad-presents-proclamation-to-david-harrison-levi/

6. Skin Trade DocuFilm Exposes What Fashion Really Costs.
This movie really shows that the next time you buy fur to dress you up or meat, think twice. The poor animals are killed very badly alive while they take away their skin and then some of us buy the fur and food to eat. So People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and other animals activists are doing the right thing by educating us that it is not right to kill the animals in a brutal way and then make money off them.

http://diversitynewspublications.com/2010/02/skin-trade-docufilm-exposes-what-fashion-really-costs/


7. 11th Latin GRAMMY Awards Nominees Announced in Hollywood.
This event we were invited to cover in Las Vegas, but you know driving in a town that is not familiar is a risk but all the news about the event it was all over.

http://diversitynewspublications.com/2010/09/11th-latin-grammy-awards-nominees-announced/

8. Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff Makes Her New Vision Shake at Millions of Milkshakes.
After all the controversies on her drunk driving and other issues, she stepped up and got her own Millions of Milkshake which everyone wants to have. Hint: just know the right people and be famous to get one. Ms. Bach-Hasselhoff is somebody I grew up watching on BayWatch with her ex-husband David Hasselhoff.

http://diversitynewspublications.com/2010/01/pamela-bach-hasselhoff-makes-her-new-vision-shake-at-millions-of-milkshakes/

Examiner.com Teams up with Thomson Reuters

Examiner.com who reaches over 22 million readers per month announced on Monday, December 13, 2010 the new partnership with Thomson Reuters to license, distribute and share Examiners content across the United States through their new flagship service, Reuters America.


Per Rick Blair, Examiner.com CEO stated “The participation in Reuters America marks a huge milestone in the history of Examiner.com. Reuters, the news and media division of Thomson Reuters, is the world’s largest multimedia news provider touching more than 1 billion people a day. Today’s announcement of our partnership is a strong show of confidence in the quality and credibility found in your content.”


He added “Examiner.com has always believed in its Examiners, and we’ve operated under the mores that there is value in and desire for content important to people’s day-to-day lives. We believe this distribution deal confirms a growing sentiment in the industry – there is not only readership interest in your content by Examiner.com’s 22 million unique visitors; there is interest from the traditional media marketplace.” For more information about this annoucement please visit http://blog.examiner.com/


About Thomson Reuters:

Thomson Reuters is the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals.

They combine industry expertise with innovative technology to deliver critical information to leading decision makers in the financial, legal, tax and accounting, healthcare, science and media markets, powered by the world’s most trusted news organization.

Thomson Reuters shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: TRI) and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: TRI).

About Examiner.com

Examiner.com is a media company based in Denver, Colorado, that operates a network oflocal news websites, allowing “pro-am contributors”^[1][2] to share their city-based knowledge on a blog-like platform, in 238 markets throughout the United States and parts of Canada with two national editions, one for each country.^[3][4][5][1]

Examiner.com is a division of Clarity Media Group, with the primary investor being billionaire businessman Philip Anschutz, owner of Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG), Regal Cinemas, and other media and entertainment companies.^[3][4][6] Examiner.com has over 55,000 contributors,^[2] commonly referred to as “Examiners.” Examiner.com is reaching over 22 million readers per month. For more information visit: http://www.examiner.com

Sources: Wikipedia, Examiner.com, Reuters.com and Diversity News Magazine

Editor’s Note: We are happy to be part of the Examiner.com family with our two pages http://www.examiner.com/events-in-los-angeles/esteban-escobar and http://www.examiner.com/events-in-los-angeles/esteban-escobar-1 and to reach  more than 1 billion people a day it is very exciting. Congratulations to Mr. Rick Blair, CEO and all of us the Examiners

Rapper Crooked I & Media Mogul Eric Zuley Attend Urban Kings Best Hip Hop Awards

When Media Mogul Eric Zuley walks the red carpet all the media/press and photographers attention are on him. On Saturday, December 11, 2010 Eric Zuley attended King Ryan Events The Best of the Best II. Eric told media representatives on the red carpet that he was one of the award presenters. Eric Zuley presented the Award for Urban Kings Best Hip Hop Album to Skeet.


King Ryan knows how to promote events and get people to attend, but he works with unprofessional and rude people such as those in security who do not know how to distinguish celebrities or media. King Ryan is helping the community by giving the kids an opportunity to showcase their art and take them away from the streets.

Some of the celebrities who attended the event were: Maryam Shepardson (KLAS FM Maryam Talk Radio host), Bianca Renne (Model/Actress/Host and Dancer), Eric Ronald Kandell (Model and Actor), Ryan Torres (Actors Manager), Arthur Edmonds (NCIS Los Angeles), Betrice Coleman-Sweet (Publicist), Charyse Monet (Actress), Vanessa Ray (Model / Actress) and Michael Benz (Events Host).



The event was hosted by Artist and Entertainer Mr. Upshaw. The event was held at Vanguard Nightclub in Hollywood, CA. For more information about the King Ryan Events visit http://urbankingshowcase.com/


About Crooked I: Dominick Wickliffe, better known by his stage name Crooked I, is an American rapper fromLong Beach, California. Crooked I is currently the CEO of his own record labels, Dynasty Entertainment and C.O.B. Digital[1] as well as Senior Vice President of Treacherous Records.[2]Before starting his own label, he was also signed to Virgin Records and Death Row Records. For more information about Crooked I visit http://www.myspace.com/crookedi


About Eric Zuley: Eric Zuley (aka EZ) is most prominently known as the television host for WTV (What U Need TV), a company he started in 2006, but his other talents are in public relations, acting, rap, and dance. Additionally, Eric is passionate about community service. His role as a host for WTV evolved from the original premise of the company, which was to chronicle Eric’s own road to stardom. As Eric’s career quickly progressed, WTV became the perfect compliment to another venture he undertook as a publicist with Gith Public Relations. Both companies have turned heads amongst Hollywood’s elite with their top notch event coverage and promotion at Hollywood’s hottest red carpet events. You can find Eric on Facebook and follow him on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ericzuley For more information visit http://ericzuley.com/ and http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3224467/

Sources: Imdb, Wikipedia, Skeet Official Website andDiversity News Magazine


Photos (C) and Courtesy of Allen Berezovsky from Star Pictures Today & Art Edmonds from A3 Studios. (C) 2010 By Diversity News Publications. All Rights Are Reserved.

Editor’s Note: Story was proofread by Linda Krongold, our New York, NY Special Correspondent For Diversity News. For more information you can contact her at andmeljar@aol.com.  In another note Dear readers, Vanguard Night Club is located in Hollywood and the event was good.  We were in the VIP area, but when we wanted to come back one security guy named Sexy was very rude. Please do not support this kind of club and tell your friends. We contacted Vanguard Night Club management to report this issue but as of the date of publishing this story they have not contacted us.

Out of the Transylvania Night Official Book Release at Barnes & Noble & Review

On Saturday, October 23, 2010 from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bettie Youngs Books Publishing Company held “Out of the Transylvania Night: A Story of Tyranny, Freedom, Love and Identity”, This was the Official Book Signing at the famous Barnes and Noble in the Miracle Mile area in Los Angeles, CA.


“I think that people create stories with their well-crafted words, but also stories create people. I felt that my plight, my struggles, and my achievements have created emotional bridges with so many of my fans and friends and with new people I never met before. The book signing at Barnes and Noble, at The Grove, on Oct 23, 2010 was a success due to my amazing core of good souls who have been following me and treasuring me for who I am in reality. Thanks to William Brown and Bettie B. Youngs, the orchestrators of my book signing and to my audience, the message was spread and hearts were touched. I was humbled by the number of guests who showed up, and I was more than honored to have had so many fans to deliver my message to.” Said Aura Imbarus, Author, PhD and Educator.

“Out of the Transylvania Night”, the book written by Author, PhD and Educator Aura Imbarus, shows lots of courage, independence, will, dreams and freedom. Living in a communist country is not easy because you feel scared of your own birth soil. It is hard to believe that in Romania, a country in eastern Europe, people lost their freedom and dreams. I can relate to the author because my country also was run during a time where gun shots, protests and people were forced to join the communist party. So like in Romania and my country, citizens needed to think of ways to escape from the nightmare and run away to a better life in another country, This wasn’t easy, because in a new country you have other issues, like how to adjust to the lifestyle, the new language, culture, laws, and everything else a foreigner has to learn.

“Sometimes things are better untold, but in that case nobody is going to know what happened, why, and what for. My life story gives people and inside peak into the world of communism, so-called equality, while opening up the eyes of the ones who have never lived under dictatorship. It is never too late to call a spade a spade. We all have a past, and our present lies on it: good or bad it is what it is and hopefully we learned from it, and we will not repeat the same mistakes. People need to be exposed to the ups and downs of the American Dream, to its sacrifices, to the world of immigration, to stringent women empowerment issues, to the cruel world of cancer and a passive world that is not doing much to cure so much suffering. My book is an eye opener for the ones who want to see, for the ones who want to listen to the voice of an immigrant, who started with two pieces of luggage and a huge dream.” Ms. Imbarus concluded.


It is very good to see that author Aura Imbarus did have lots of courage to accomplish her goals in her country and move on to a unknown country where she was thinking that the American Dream would be easily accomplished. But when she dreamed about the USA and the beautiful life, she was in for a big disappointment. Lots of people in foreign countries think that by moving to the USA, life will be so glamorous and magical. However, the real truth and reality is that it is not easy.  Like author Aura Imbarus, foreigners with high education have to start from the bottom and take about 3 to 4 jobs to be able to pay their rent, medical insurance, transportation, car payment, car insurance, food, bills and other daily necessities in the USA. So, she did not have time to enjoy her life because she had to work hard for long hours to pay for her living expenses. Sadly, that is the life here in the USA.  If you’re thinking that you will have a great life in the USA, think twice because the only way you can have the great, magical and glamorous life is to come with money or have a good paying job. The cost of living here in the USA, particularly areas like Los Angeles, New York, and Miami is sky high. Many people need to have more than two jobs just to make end meet.


Thanks to technology and the internet, now people can see the dark side of the other countries and the difficulties of starting over in new countries like the USA. Author Aura Imbarus is contributing to our society by letting you open your eyes and sharing her true story in her book “Out of the Transylvania Night”, from leaving her nightmare country to the big disappointments since arriving on American soil.

Reading “Out of the Transylvania Night” is something that you need to do.  Many immigrants here in the USA have come to this country for many reasons. Some came because when they were in their country they would see their neighbors receiving goods and money from their USA relatives. They did have any idea of how hard those people were working here in the USA and how difficult it was to learn the system.

Some book authors out there really share the truth like Aura Imbarus of “Out of the Transylvania Night”. Others don’t and they have their reasons. Some are creative and they are making a living by writing books, but every author is different. The one that is really getting a big slice of the cake is the book publisher because the author/writer gets a percentage and has to wait for about a year before they see some earnings of so many hours of hard work in promoting and making appearances to get the word out about their art.


“Out of the Transylvania Night” event was hosted and held at Barnes & Noble, at The Grove by the Farmers Market located at 189 Grove Drive Suite K 30 in Los Angeles, CA 90036.



Per event organizers around 128 people showed up on a capricious weather, beating the raindrops and the LA traffic. Many thanks to all the ones who showed their support for the Pulitzer Prize entry memoir “Out of the Transylvania Night.” The book is available at B&N, at The Grove, and on line on Amazon.com, right in time for the holidays.

About Author Aura Imbarus:

Aura Imbarus, PhD, is an educator, professional speaker, a former popular journalist in Europe and the author of the critically acclaimed memoir, Out of the Transylvania Night: A Story of Tyranny, Freedom, Love and Identity. Aura was born in Sibiu,Romania and was educated at the famed Octavian Goga High School. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English and Modern Languages. Aura earned a MA in English Professional Consulting Literature at Lucian Blaga University in Sibiu, Transylvania, and Romania. She also earned a PhD in Romance Languages-Philology under the tutelage of Professor Dumitru Ciocoi-Pop, PhD, who wrote the foreword for her book. For more information visit http://www.auraimbarus.com

About Out of the Transylvania Night:

Explores tyranny and freedom, love, success, and the price paid for misaligned dreams in an epic tale of identity and the human spirit. It is a deftly woven narrative about finding greater meaning and fulfillment in a free world, and an exploration of how social issues affect the human spirit. An incredibly powerful memoir.

Story published first on Examiner.com

https://www.examiner.com/events-in-los-angeles/out-of-the-transylvania-night-official-book-release-at-barnes-noble-review-review

Editor’s Note: Story was proofread by Linda Krongold, our New York, NY Special Correspondent For Diversity News. For more information you can contact her at andmeljar@aol.com

Photos Courtesy of Jeff Knight from Jeff Knight Photography, Diversity News Publications and Author Aura Imbarus for Diversity News Publications & Hollywood Events Examiner. (C) 2010 By Diversity News Publications, Aura Imbarus and Jeff Knight Photography. All Rights Are Reserved.

En Vogue and Kelly Rowland Headliners to perform at the Main Pavilion Stage for LA Pride 2010

Christopher Street West announces the 2010 Headliners for this year’s celebration for June 12 and 13, 2010. En Vogue, Kelly Rowland, Kelis, Martha Davis & The Motels will be Headliners for the 2010 LA Pride Celebration and perform on the Main Stage. Kelis will perform “Milkshake”; and En Vogue will perform “Free Your Mind”, “My Lovin’ – You’re Never Gonna Get It!”, and “Whatta Man”. On Sunday after the parade, Martha Davis & The Motels will perform, and later Kelly Rowland will perform “When Love Takes Over”. More Headliners for the other Dance Pavilions will be announced soon by Christopher Street West.


The Festival admission cost is $20.00 per day or $15 if bought in advance at www.lapride.org. Tickets include access to all entertainment venues. The event organizers expect around 400.000 people. The Parade starts at Crescent Heights Blvd and runs along Santa Monica Blvd to Robertson Blvd. It will be held on Sunday beginning at 11:00 am. The parade will also be broadcast live via www.lapride.org/webcast
About Christopher Street West: Is a non-profit organization, Christopher Street West, is a leading partner in the advancement of rights and equality of the LGBT community. Led by professionally-driven, volunteer-based board members, Christopher Street West produces one of the largest Pride Celebrations in the United States with an expanding global presence reaching millions of people every year. For more information about the LA PRIDE Parade and Festival visit http://www.lapride.org

Sources: www.Lapride.org and http://www.examiner.com/x-35747-Hollywood-Events-Examiner~y2010m5d9-En-Vogue-and-Kelly-Rowland-Headliners-to-perform-at-the-Main-Pavilion-Stage-for-LA-Pride-2010 

Story was proofread by Linda Krongold, our New York, NY Special Correspondent For Diversity News. For more information you can contact her at andmeljar@aol.com.

Photos courtesy of Christopher Street West Public Relations for Diversity News. (C) 2010 by CSW for Diversity News Publications. All Rights Are Reserved.

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