The Artivist Collective

Celebrate the Artivist Film Festival’s Winning Films And
Award Honoree Kristen Bell
At the Festival’s Closing Night Ceremony
Saturday, August 20, 2011
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Artivist Film Festival at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood
Thursday 8/18 – Saturday 8/20

LOS ANGELES, CA – August 16, 2011 – The Artivist Collective presents its 8th annual Artivist Film Festival August 18, 19, 20, 2011 at the historic The Artivist Collective presents its 8th annual Artivist Film Festival August 18, 19, 20, 2011 at the historic Egyptian Theatre in the heart of Hollywood, California.  This year the closing night awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, August 20th from 6:00 to 10:00PM.  Highlights include the Artivist Awards given to ten films and Artivist Award Honoree Kristen Bell, known for her film (Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Burlesque, etc.) and television work (Heroes, Veronica Mars, etc.), as well as her philanthropy (Alzheimer’s Association, Invisible Children, PETA, SCPA, etc.).  Actress Rachel Bilson will present the award to Bell.  Also on hand will be Master of Ceremonies Dan Nainan and presenters Persia White and Marco Antonio Regil.  The closing night ceremonies are complimentary to the press and public (as is the entire festival) but seats are limited and must be reserved in advance. in the heart of Hollywood, California.  This year the closing night awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, August 20th from 6:00 to 10:00PM.  Highlights include the Artivist Awards given to ten films and Artivist Award Honoree Kristen Bell, known for her film (Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Burlesque, etc.) and television work (Heroes, Veronica Mars, etc.), as well as her philanthropy (Alzheimer’s Association, Invisible Children, PETA, SCPA, etc.).  Actress Rachel Bilson will present the award to Bell.  Also on hand will be Master of Ceremonies Dan Nainan and presenters Persia White and Marco Antonio Regil.  The closing night ceremonies are complimentary to the press and public (as is the entire festival) but seats are limited and must be reserved in advance.  To do so please visit http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/193484.  The Egyptian Theatre is located at 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028.  To learn more about the festival please visit http://festival.artivist.com.

This year the festival will present a total of 41 independent narrative and documentary films from around the globe over the course of the three-day festival, which kicks off on Thursday, August 18th at 5:00PM.  Seats for many of the screenings can be reserved in advance by visiting http://www.brownpapertickets.com/producer/69318.  Advance reservations are highly recommended since most, if not all, screenings and events are expected to “sell out.”  To view the At-A-Glance three-day schedule please visit:  http://festival.artivist.com/film-guide/viewing-schedule.html.  To read a synopsis about all festival films please visit:  http://festival.artivist.com/film-guide.html.

During the closing night ceremony ten Artivist Awards will be presented to films that embody the festival’s mission to strengthen the voice of activist artists – Artivists – while raising public awareness for social global causes.  The evening of August 20th begins at 6:00PM with red carpet arrivals.  The awards presentation commences at 7:00PM and an after-party in the Egyptian Theatre’s courtyard gets underway immediately following the Awards Ceremony.

Ten participating films have been chosen to receive a 2011 Artivist Award in these five categories:

• Human Rights:
- Best Feature:  Because We Were Beautiful (Indonesia, Netherlands), Director Frank van Osch
- Best Short:  Umoja: No Men Allowed (Kenya, Australia), Director Elizabeth Tadic

• Children’s Advocacy:
- Best Feature:  Surfing Soweto (South Africa), Director Sara Blecher
- Best Short:  Grace (Philippines, Switzerland), Director Meagan Kelly

• Environmental Preservation:
- Best Feature:  Spoil (Canada, U.S.), Director Trip Jennings
- Best Short:  The Leaves Keep Falling (Vietnam, USA), Director Julie Winokur

• Animal Advocacy:
- Best Feature: Green (Indonesia, France), Director Patrick Rouxel
- Best Short:  Saving Pelican 895 (USA), Director Irene Taylor Brodsky

• Artivist Spirit:
- Best Feature: Love Hate Love (USA), Directors Don Hardy, Dana Nachman
- Best Short:  Crooked Beauty (USA), Director Ken Paul Rosenthal

- To read more about the films and filmmakers honored with these awards please visit:  http://www.artivist.com/festival/media/press-releases/23675-2011-film-awards.html

The Artivist Film Festival and Awards are dedicated to recognizing activist efforts of filmmakers, specifically in the areas of human rights, child advocacy, environmental preservation, and animal welfare.  Each year the festival also honors celebrity advocates.  Past honorees include Peter Fonda, Olivia Wilde, Hank Azaria, Ted Danson, Alyssa Milano, Daryl Hannah, Matthew McConaughey, Joaquin Phoenix, James Cromwell, Mira Sorvino, Tippi Hedren, Mike Farrell and Ed Begley, Jr.

This year, Artivist proudly welcomes back Petrobras as its Official Community Partner.  Since 2004, Petrobras has supported the growth of the international Artivist Film Festival and Artivist Awards.

KPFK (http://www.kpfk.org) reprises their role as a media sponsor this year.

The festival is also sponsored proudly by Kanon Organic Vodka (http://www.kanonvodka.com) and Hansen’s Natural (http://www.hansens.com).

About Petrobras –
Petrobras, a Brazilian energy company, has a 30 year history of distributing ethanol from sugar cane as fuel for vehicles, and is now committed to increasing the production and exports of ethanol.

At its new research center, scientists are looking for ways to produce ethanol from farming byproducts, which can increase production without the need for more farming land.

Petrobras is the largest funder of Cultural Arts Programs in Brazil, and a partner of hundreds of social, animal welfare, and environmental projects, such as the protection of endangered sea turtles, spinners dolphins and the manatee, as well as initiatives on carbon capture, water protection, biodiversity, and climate change.  As the only company in the energy sector that is part of the Global Compact Board of the United Nations, Petrobras commits its corporate governance to the 10 principles set forth by the United Nations.

Understanding the interdependence between humanity, animals, and the environment is crucial in our global community. By working with individuals and groups, organizations and companies, we can create long-term solutions to our global problems (http://www.petrobras.com.br/en).

About Kristen Bell –
Bell, an avowed vegetarian since age 11, has a long history of working with charitable and NGO-related causes. She traveled to Brazil as a volunteer while a student at New York University.  While there, she helped medics deliver two babies during her work in an underprivileged community. During the time she lived in Michigan, Bell fostered animals from Michigan Humane Society, and she now supports the San Diego-based Helen Woodward Animal Center.

She also advocates for Invisible Children, which works to create awareness of the plight of the people of Northern Uganda, the voter education charity Declare Yourself as well as such well known charitable organizations such as PETA, SCPA and the Alzheimer’s Association. She was a member of the 2007 American Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet.

“I believe empathy is our most important impulse. Helping others is what makes human beings great. I am just responding where I see my skills can help meet a current need, and I think we have a duty to protect and love one another. 

Artivist embodies these principles and helps bridge the gap between awareness and action,” says Bell.

Internationally known for her work in Veronica Mars and in the films Burlesque (with Cher and Christina Aguilera) and When In Rome (in which she starred opposite Josh Duhamel), she will next be seen starring in the new Showtime series House of Lies, opposite Don Cheadle, premiering in January 2012.  Soon after, she will be seen in Universal Pictures’ film Everybody Loves Whales, opposite Drew Barrymore and John Krasinski, being released on January 13, 2012.  She also recently wrapped filming Movie 43, for the Farrelly Brothers, which is being released on April 13, 2012.  Currently, Bell is filming the feature film Outrun, for director Dax Shepard.

About Rachel Bilson –
Rachel Bilson’s latest production, her CW pilot Hart of Dixie, will premiere on September 26, 2011.  She also recently wrapped the independent film L!fe Happens opposite Kate Bosworth.  Other film credits include starring as the female lead in Waiting for Forever as well as in Jumper for 20th Century Fox Studios, as well as The Last Kiss, with Zach Braff, which was directed by Tony Goldwyn for Paramount.  She also stared opposite Andy Garcia in a film comprised of a series of shorts called New York, I Love You.   Bilson has also appeared twice as a guest star on the hit television series How I Met Your Mother as well as Josh Schwartz’s Chuck.  Other TV credits include The OC (a series regular for four seasons on the Fox Network) and guest-starring roles on That ’70s Show, Mad TV, 8 Simple Rules, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

The Artivist Film Festival, Artivist Satellite Festivals, and Awards –
The Artivist Collective (www.artivists.org) presents the only film festival specializing in progressive issues of the environment, social justice and animal rights.  Since its inception in 2003, Artivist Film Festival has screened 400+ films representing more than 60 countries, and has produced film festival tours in Los Angeles, New York, London, Tokyo, Mexico City, and Lisbon, that have reached more than 35 million people.

Earlier this year, Artivist Film Festival launched a nationwide expansion of its programming with simultaneous screenings in six cities in the U.S., beyond its traditional annual programs in Los Angeles and New York. The other cities included Austin, Atlanta, Chicago, Seattle, Sedona and Washington D.C.

Among the films presented at the Artivist Film Festival over the years have been Academy Award winner Born Into Brothels and Academy Award nominee Super-Size Me as well as the Los Angeles Premiere of critically-acclaimed documentaries God Sleeps In Rwanda, Fast Food Nation, Emmanuelle’s Gift, Zeitgeist, Trudell, Stolen Childhoods, and Regeneration.

The Artivist Film Festival has been publicly endorsed by internationally recognized NGOs such as Amnesty International, Unicef – The United Nations Children’s Fund, HSUS – Humane Society of the United States, Global Green, Greenpeace, by Claes Nobel of the Nobel Prize Family, and by the United Nations Department of Public Information.

For more information, photos, or to arrange an interview, please contact Green Galactic’s Lynn Tejada (née Hasty) at 213-840-1201 and lynn@greengalactic.com.

BACKGROUNDER

Synopsis:
Award-winning film Bouncing Cats is the inspiring documentary of one man’s attempt to create a better life for the children of Uganda through the unlikely tools of hip hop and breakdance. Narrated by Common and featuring interviews with Will.I.Am, and K’Naan, the story follows the legendary Crazy Legs of the Rock Steady Crew and b-boy Abramz, the founder of Breakdance Project Uganda (BPU), on a journey to unify, empower and inspire youth in the war torn country that has been called one of the worst places on earth to be a child.*  Poverty, disease, and a brutal, mindless war in the region have divided families, displaced millions and led to the abduction and mutilation of tens of thousands of children resulting in the deterioration of identity and culture.

In response to these tragic circumstances, Abraham “Abramz” Tekya, a Ugandan b-boy and AIDS orphan, started Breakdance Project Uganda to create much needed positive social change in the region. His dream was to establish a free workshop that would empower, rehabilitate, and heal the community by teaching youth about b-boy culture. Crazy Legs, one of the founding members of the world famous Rock Steady Crew, visited Uganda after receiving an invitation from Abramz to teach b-boy classes. What he discovered upon his arrival was both heartbreaking and inspiring. Traveling throughout Uganda, from the southern slums to the war-torn north, Crazy Legs encountered a passion for hip hop and desire to learn amongst youth living in the most squalid conditions.

After only a few short months on the festival circuit, the film by director Nabil Elderkin has already won “Best Documentary Feature Film” at the Urbanworld Film Festival in New York; “Outstanding Achievement in Documentary Filmmaking” at the Newport Beach Film Festival; and “Audience Favorite Award” at DocUtah – Southern Utah International Documentary Film Festival.

*Source:  Former UNICEF head Carol Bellamy has called northern Uganda “pretty much the worst place on earth to be a child.” Over 20,000 children – some as young as six years old – have been abducted by the rebel-led Lords Resistance Army (LRA), forced to serve as child soldiers, sex slaves, and laborers. http://www.warchild.org/projects/WC_Canada/Uganda/uganda.html

Breakdance Project Uganda:
Breakdance Project Uganda (BPU) started in February 2006 by Abramz out of his belief that hip hop can be used as a tool to engage and empower disadvantaged youth. Its mission is to involve young people in hip hop culture in order to build leadership skills and promote social responsibility for positive change. The Project has attracted people from every walk of life and acts as a catalyst for building mutually beneficial relationships between people of different social strata across Uganda and the rest of the world. From the initial three students who turned up at the first session, the Project has grown through word of mouth, regular showcase performances, and exposure on the World Wide Web to become a thriving organization with over 1,000 members nationally in Uganda and many more supporters around the world.

Abramz organizes breakdancing sessions each week for hundreds of youth in different parts of the country. The Project has been built around free breakdancing classes which are currently offered at the Sharing Youth Centre, Kampala, Gulu Youth Centre and TAKS Art Centre in Gulu. The classes are sustained by members freely passing on their skills to new members, following the BPU ideology that everyone is a student and everyone is a teacher with something positive to give. Members have also made outreach visits to towns in other parts of Eastern and Northern Uganda to share their skills and engage more youth across Uganda. Many of the participating children are extremely vulnerable with members who are orphans, victims of war and poverty, unable to afford proper schooling.  Despite the hardships, children walk from miles away to attend the BPU classes each week. As Abramz says, “This is where many people’s pride is. It’s a skill that no one can take away from us.”

BPU supports formal and non-formal education opportunities by advocating the importance of education and partnering with organizations to increase members’ access to educational services such as life skills workshops, media and skills training, voluntary counseling and testing, and advocacy training. Through the sale of BPU t-shirts, the Project also sponsors schools fees for vulnerable members.

BPU aims to:
• Bridge the gap between the advantaged and disadvantaged while uniting people of different religious, tribal and social backgrounds
• Promote positive social responsibility
• Build leadership skills and self-esteem
• Increase access to formal and informal education
• Generate employment opportunities through private teaching and performances
• Connect local and international artists

Over the past four years, BPU has partnered with local and international organizations including: Oxfam, MS Uganda, In Movement, People Concern Children’s Project, Danish Centre for Cultural Development, H.E.A.L.S. (Gulu), Global Youth Partnership for Africa, the Embassy of France in Uganda, Uganda FDNC, and USAID/NUTI, Straight Talk Foundation (STF), and has carried out activities in orphanages, juvenile prisons, local and international schools, and youth and community centers.

Call to Action:
For those interested in supporting the work of BPU, donations can be made through the organization’s fiscal sponsor The Voice Project via the Bouncing Cats site at http://www.bouncingcats.com/donate. Donations are 100% tax deductible.  Proceeds go directly to Breakdance Project Uganda to continue its mission to empower and positively inspire youth through hip hop. Abramz also hopes to one day build a permanent center for BPU.

With a donation of $15 or more to BPU, contributors receive a limited edition Bouncing Cats t-shirt while supplies last. The t-shirts are made by Edun, the non-profit fashion brand founded by Ali Hewson and Bono, using 100% African cotton grown by farmers of the Conservation Cotton Initiative (CCI) in Northern Uganda. The CCI was created by Edun, the Wildlife Conservation Society and Invisible Children to build sustainable farming communities and provide a fair trade market for their cotton. The CCI Uganda Program is based in the Gulu District, an area recovering from the civil war. The CCI Initiative assists farmers who are returning to their land by providing funding, tools, and training to grow a sustainable cotton business.

Uganda:
According to the World Bank, more than 30% of the population in Uganda lives below the poverty line. Uganda is a rapidly growing nation with a very young population (Source: UNGASS). An estimated 49% of people in Uganda are under the age of 14 (Source: Population Reference Bureau). After the introduction of Universal Primary Education in Uganda in 1997, primary school enrollment increased to 82% but less than 20% of young people go on to complete further education (Source: Population Reference Bureau). Development in Uganda has been greatly hampered by more than two decades of conflict between the government and the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in the North and, as a result, the opportunities available to young people are extremely limited. Unemployment levels for young people between the ages of 14 and 24 are estimated to be at 83% (Source: ADI Report 2008/2009).

However, there is hope for young people in Uganda as the country gets closer to reaching its Millennium Development Goals. Since 1992, the number of people living in poverty has substantially decreased by more than 25% according to the 2007 UNDP Uganda Progress Report. Gender equality has been steadily improving with more than 2 million additional girls enrolling in primary school each year. Indicators show that HIV/AIDS prevalence has stabilized at 6.4%. Overall, there is growing optimism across Uganda that things will continue to improve and peace will remain.

Bouncing Cats Cast:
Abraham “Abramz” Tekya:
Abraham Tekya, commonly known as “Abramz,” is the director and founder of Breakdance Project Uganda, an organization launched in February 2006 that uses breakdance and other elements of hip hop culture to promote positive change and social responsibility. A native of Mengo, Kampala, Uganda, Abramz grew up quickly, as most children in Uganda are forced to. At the age of seven, he lost both of his parents to AIDS and was orphaned, shuffled between distant relatives and different homes. Despite these circumstances, Abramz used his life experience and love of hip hop to educate, inspire and unite youth in Uganda and beyond.

Richard “Crazy Legs” Colòn:
To call Richard “Crazy Legs” Colòn a pioneer is an understatement. It is nearly impossible to have a conversation about b-boying without giving mention to the legendary Crazy Legs. Not only is he a veteran of hip hop as a culture, boasting more than 3 decades as the driving force behind the hip hop dance movement, but he’s also an outstanding citizen and role model. He has lent his time, experience, and influence to aiding and encouraging the positive advancement of hip hop culture. Among his many achievements, he is credited with the creation of the classic b-boy move called the continuous backspin or “windmill.”

Jolly Grace Okot:
Jolly Grace Okot, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, was among the first wave of children abducted and forced to be a child soldier in the beginning of Uganda’s civil war.  She is the Uganda Country director for Invisible Children (IC) and has been involved with the organization since the beginning. Her guidance enabled Bouncing Cats‘ filmmakers to see and understand the plight of children in Northern Uganda, and her leadership and direction helped create IC’s initiatives on the ground. Okot also runs H.E.A.L.S., a program that provides play therapy for war-affected children.

Kibuka Mukisa Oscar:
Kibuka Mukisa Oscar, who joined BPU in 2006 and regularly attends weekly Sharing Youth Centre sessions, recently finished secondary school. He dreams of working in the visual arts.

Shadia Aghamu:
Aghamu Shadia was born into a family of 13 children. She dreams of going to a good business school, earning enough money to support her family, and hopes to buy a bus for BPU one day.

Alfred Otim:
Alfred Otim, currently studying at Gulu College, hopes to go to University to become an engineer. He intends to earn money for University by teaching and performing.

Claire Lewis:
Claire Lewis, a 20-year Oxfam veteran, has been based in Africa for the past four years. During a fateful trip to Los Angeles, she met director Elderkin and the two discussed hip hop, which included Lewis mentioning Abramz’ inspirational work in Uganda. After the meeting, Lewis casually suggested Elderkin drop by to see Kampala one day…

Ynot:
Ynot started dancing at the age of 17 and was mainly influenced by James Brown. He is a member of the legendary Rock Steady Crew. He enjoys traveling and teaching workshops across the US and the world.

Ervin Arana:
DJ, photographer and respected b-boy Ervin Arana is a member of the Rock Steady Crew. He has appeared in numerous music videos and shares his knowledge of dance through lectures and workshops.

Additional details on cast members are available at http://www.bouncingcats.com/cast/

Additional Credits & Film Details:
Bouncing Cats was produced by Red Bull Media House and directed by Nabil Elderkin. All proceeds from the film are going to Breakdance Project Uganda.

Nabil Elderkin, Director:
Bouncing Cats Director Nabil Elderkin, originally a native of Australia, began his photography career when he picked up a camera to shoot portraits of fellow surfers. What started as a hobby, rapidly developed into a working career. From surf portraits, Elderkin began shooting musicians and anyone that inspired him. He later moved to the United States to continue to expand his career. Today, Elderkin lives and works in Los Angeles at his studio downtown. He shoots musicians, sports, fashion, and portraiture. Elderkin has recently published a book titled Glow in the Dark with Kanye West through Rizzoli and has directed several music videos and documentaries from here to Africa. Traveling is his passion. He created the film in order to bring attention to the situation in Uganda as well as support the inspiring work Abramz is doing through BPU.

Executive Producers: Amy Taylor, Scott Bradfield, Karma Gardner, Charlie Rosene

Producers: Nyla Hassell, George Mays, Claude Merkel, Charles Spano

Film Editing: Isaac Hagy

Sound Editor: Andrew Le Guier

Genre: Documentary / Music

Runtime: 75 minutes

Country: USA

Language: English

Color: Color

Filming Locations: Uganda, USA

Festival Tour & Special Engagements:
Bouncing Cats is screening on the festival circuit and at special engagements across the US. Key screenings include:

- Apr. 17 – Newport Beach Film Festival – Newport Beach, CA
- Aug. 21 – DocuFest Atlanta International Documentary Film Festival – Atlanta, GA
- Sep. 17, 18 – Urbanworld Film Festival – New York, NY
- Sep. 17-19 – DocUtah – Southern Utah Int’l Documentary Film Festival – St. George, UT
- Sep. 22 – Manifesto Film Fest – Toronto, ON
- Sep. 23 – Montreal International Black Film Festival – Montreal, QC
- Oct. 8-10 – BendFilm – Bend, OR
- Oct. 16, 17, 19, 22 – Heartland Truly Moving Pictures – Indianapolis, IN
- Oct. 18, 24 – Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival – Hot Springs National Park, AR
- Oct. 30 – MoogFest – Asheville, NC
- Nov. 3 – USC Albert & Dana Broccoli Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
- Nov. 4, 7 – American Film Market (AFM) – Santa Monica, CA
- Nov. 7 – Hartford International Film Festival – Hartford, CT
- Nov. 9 – National Geographic LIVE! – Washington DC
- Nov. 11 – Rice University – Houston, TX
- Nov. 16 – Downtown Independent – Los Angeles, CA
- Nov. 19 – Arizona State University – Tempe, AZ
- Nov. 20 – Decatur High School Performing Arts Center – Atlanta, GA
- Dec. 4 – Northwestern University McCormick Tribune Theater - Evanston, IL
- Dec. 5 – Bahamas International Film Festival - Nassau, Bahamas
- Dec. 16 – NYU – New York, NY

Please visit the Bouncing Cats site for additional screening announcements at http://www.bouncingcats.com/screenings/.

Awards:
Newport Film Festival “Outstanding Achievement in Documentary Filmmaking”
Urbanworld Film Festival “Best Documentary Feature Film”
DocUtah – Southern Utah International Documentary Film Festival “Audience Favorite Award”
Bahamas International Film Festival Audience Award for “Best Feature Documentary”

Distribution:
Bouncing Cats distribution is open to negotiations.  For distribution related inquiries, please contact Nyla Hassell at nyla.hassell@us.redbull.com.

Bouncing Cats Links:
- Official Web Site: http://www.bouncingcats.com
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bouncingcats
- Twitter: http://twitter.com/bouncingcats
- Video Trailer: http://vimeo.com/12234800

Publicity Contact:
For more information, or to request screeners, images, and interviews, please contact Green Galactic’s Lynn Tejada (née Hasty) at 213-840-1201 or lynn@greengalactic.com.

Click to watch the Bouncing Cats trailer.

(Updated 12/02/10)

Congo in Harlem 2

Painting by JP Mika

Congo in Harlem 2
A Series of Films and Special Events
Maysles Cinema
Friday, October 8 – Saturday, October 23, 2010

NEW YORK CITY, NY – Congo in Harlem 2 is the second annual series of Congo-related films and events at the Maysles Cinema in Harlem. This year’s program runs from Friday, October 8 – Saturday, October 23, 2010 and showcases a wide range of films by Congolese and international directors, representing the most important issues facing the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) today. Most screenings will be followed by panel discussions, special events, musical performances, and receptions. Congo in Harlem 2 will provide audiences with more than the traditional movie-going experience – it will offer opportunities to celebrate Congolese culture, learn about the ongoing humanitarian crisis, engage in dialogue, and get involved.  Maysles Cinema is located at 343 Lenox Ave./Malcolm X Blvd. (at 127th Street), New York, NY 10027.  Screenings are open to the public at a suggested donation of $10.  Box office opens one hour prior to show time.  For more information please call 212-582-6050.  To learn more, purchase advance tickets, and see the latest updates and schedule additions please visit http://www.mayslesinstitute.org/cinema/congo_in_harlem2.html.

Special exhibit in cinema lobby featuring photographs from North Kivu, DRC by Robert Garner and Mary McFarland.

The film and speaker series kicks off on October 8th and 9th with two films by Belgian-based Congolese filmmaker Monique Mbeka Phoba — A Bewitched Life and Between the Cup and the Elections. On October 17th, the series takes part in “Break the Silence” Congo Week with a special screening by Cultures of Resistance and a tribute to legendary soukous singer Kanda Bongo Man, who will be attendance.

The final weekend of programming sees the New York Premiere of a very timely film!

On Friday, October 22 at 7:30 PM (Co-Presented by The New York African Film Festival, Hirondelle, USA, and Radio Okapi), Afrique En Morceaux / The Tragedy of the Great Lakes by Jihan El-Tahri (2001, 100min.) will premiere. The film served as an important reference in the recently released UN mapping report.  This is the first public screening of the film in the U.S.  Post-screening discussion with filmmaker El-Tahri, Jason Stearns, Congo analyst, former UN investigator, Researcher at the International Crisis Group, and Luc Côté, lead investigator/writer of UN Mapping Report, with moderation by Congo researcher Samar Al-Bulushi, followed by reception.

On the final day of Congo In Harlem 2 – Saturday, October 23rd – there will be a panel discussion focused on child soldiers and youth leadership, featuring Ishmael Beah (author of A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier), Jimmie Briggs (author of Innocents Lost: When Child Soldiers Go to War), and Friends of the Congo‘s Kambale Musavuli. The closing night film will be Thierry Michel’s exposé of mining operations in Congo, Katanga Business, followed by a panel with Peter Rosenblum, Attorney/activist, Professor of Human Rights Law at Columbia University, and Howard French, Senior Correspondent with The New York Times, and Associate Professor at Columbia University School of Journalism.

Congo in Harlem 2 is supported by V-DAY, the Caipirinha Foundation, and other organizations. Tickets will be sold on the basis of suggested donation and the proceeds from each event will be contributed to NGOs and organizations working in Congo. Series partners include: Friends of the Congo, Now AfriCAN, Tabilulu Productions, V-Day, Cultures of Resistance, The New York African Film Festival, Arts Engine, HEAL Africa, Human Rights Watch International Film Festival, Icarus Films, Congo Global Action, Museum for African Art, and Yole!Africa.

About Maysles Cinema
Founded by renowned documentary filmmaker Albert Maysles (Grey Gardens, Gimmer Shelter), the Maysles Institute exhibits independently curated films to inspire dialogue and action, and advances community produced films through education programs. Our cinema and education programs engage multi-generational communities in creative self-expression, communicating ideas and advocating needs. We are committed to working with and representing residents of our Harlem neighborhood, documentary filmmakers and activists, community members and community-based organizations engaged in social, political and cultural change. Our goal is to bring these diverse audiences together, creating cross-cultural dialogue, relationships and empowerment through documentary film and filmmaking.

About the Organizers
Congo in Harlem is organized by a small staff of volunteers with strong interest and close ties to the Congo. The films are programmed by Lynn True, Nelson Walker, Louis Abelman, and Baze Mpinja, working in conjunction with Friends of the Congo. True, Walker, and Abelman were part of the filmmaking team that made Lumo, an award-winning documentary film about a young Congolese woman’s path to healing from a traumatic fistula at the HEAL Africa hospital in eastern Congo. Mpinja is a second generation Congolese living in New York City, currently working as a magazine editor. Her family is originally from Goma, in eastern DRC. Friends of the Congo is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising consciousness within the world community about the challenge of the Congo. A key aspect of Friends of the Congo’s mission is to support Congolese institutions to bring about a peaceful and lasting change.

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For more information, images, and interviews please contact Green Galactic’s Lynn Tejada (née Hasty) at 213-840-1201 or lynn@greengalactic.com.

Millennium Development Goal #5 –
Improve Maternal Health
Comes “Alive” in NYC at The Frying Pan with
5 Alive
Wednesday, September 22, 2010

NEW YORK, NY – The Los Angeles-based nonprofit, NextAid, along with The White Ribbon Alliance, an international coalition to promote safe motherhood, and Turntables on the Hudson are holding a unique benefit called 5 Alive on Wednesday, September 22, 2010 in New York City, during the week of the United Nations Summit on the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI), and WIE (Women: Inspiration & Enterprise) Symposium.

The name 5 Alive relates to Millennium Development Goal #5: Improve Maternal Health (MDG5).  The event will take place on an historic lightship on the Hudson, The Frying Pan, located at West 26th Street and Hudson River Park in Manhattan (vehicle access or taxi drop off is prohibited in the Hudson River Park, where Frying Pan is located, please see end of press release for specific instructions); the venue is covered so guests can enjoy the night rain or shine. Ticket prices are $15 in advance and $20 at the door, proceeds to benefit projects dedicated to improving maternal health in Africa. Promotional partners include The Bloom Effect, Media Services NYC, Fusicology, and Green Galactic.  Advance tickets are available online here: http://5alive.eventbrite.com. For more information, please visit www.nextaid.org, email events@nextaid.org, or call 424-298-8451.

Benefit-goers will be treated to a DJ set by Anané Vega (www.ananesworld.com), NextAid’s ambassador for this project (learn more below).  Attendees will also experience the magic of New York’s favorite groove crew Turntables on the Hudson (www.turntablesonthehudson.com) with long time NextAid supporters Nickodemus, Amon (DJ/drum; www.amondrum.com) and DJ G O V from Dubspot (www.dubspot.com).  Special guests also include the Grammy award-winning singer/songwriter Maya Azucena, co-founder of MDGfive.com an interactive website that brings international artists and relevant creative content together with activists in local communities, in support of the cause (www.mayaazucena.com). Also, Abby Dobson will perform a rare acoustic set to warm up the atmosphere for an enriching evening of music and social change (http://abbydobson.bandcamp.com).

This special 5 Alive event will raise awareness about the UN Millennium Development Goals and specifically MDG5 that targets maternal mortality in developing countries where pregnancy is the largest killer of girls ages 15 to 19-years-old.

“Every minute of every day, a woman dies of pregnancy related complications, totaling more than one half million women each year. These deaths leave approximately 2 million children a year motherless. Without their mothers, these children are 5-8 times more likely to die before they get to their first birthday.” – White Ribbon Alliance

In a very natural progression, NextAid, who has been helping children and communities in Africa for the better part of the last decade, has come to focus much of their energies on MDG5 this year.  They are helping to support the development of a groundbreaking new initiative: Women and Girl’s Health Resource Centers.  In collaboration with the First Ladies Initiative, a nonprofit working with African First Ladies in support of their efforts to become champions for change, and Architecture for Humanity, NextAid and other NGOs are helping to bring much needed resources and support to the women and mothers of Africa.  Working closely with select African First Ladies to design and build two initial Women and Girls’ Health Resource Centers, the pilot centers in Namibia and Sierra Leone and will serve as models for additional centers in other parts of Africa. While these centers will first and foremost serve the needs of pre and post-natal women and girls, they will also provide inter-pregnancy care to families, including an array of targeted support services based on community priorities. They will also provide educational outreach including midwifery training and related services.  This project, supporting the global movement towards achieving Millennium Development Goal #5: Improve Maternal Health, engages grassroots activism, high-level advocacy and creative design to show impact and inspire change.  NextAid is also hosting fundraising benefits in San Francisco and Los Angeles in the coming months.

About Anané Vega
Billboard magazine has described the artist as “combining earthiness with glamour and roots-deep house music knowledge with pop wise diversity.” Music has been in her blood since growing up in Cape Verde, an island nation off the coast of West Africa. Anané eventually decided to bring her talents to New York City where, armed with nothing more than a bag full of clothes and a heart full of dreams, she immersed herself in the city’s club culture. She met DJ/Producer Louie Vega, who tapped her as an integral member of the Elements of Life Collective, and Anané used that as a stepping-stone to an international career that has included appearances all over the world.  Check out her new album on iTunes.

About Nickodemus
Well known as a DJ and a producer, Nickodemus explores the intersection of urban and world music with sounds of funk, folk, jazz, hip hop, house and dub; his music and events all have the message of peace, awareness and love for dance. Since Nickodemus started Turntables on the Hudson parties in 1998, the music policy has not changed – maximum funk and absolute fun (www.nickodemus.com).

About NextAid
NextAid’s mission is to improve the lives of children and youth in Africa by promoting and implementing sustainable solutions. NextAid raises awareness for, and partners with, community-based projects and grassroots organizations in Africa and believes that an integrated approach is the best formula for establishing real and lasting change. Through music events and public education initiatives, NextAid provides empowering opportunities for concerned individuals to make a difference (www.nextaid.org).

About White Ribbon Alliance
The White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood (www.whiteribbonalliance.org) is an international coalition of individuals and organizations formed to promote increased public awareness of the need to make pregnancy and childbirth safe for all women and newborns in the developing, as well as, developed countries. The white ribbon is dedicated to the memory of all women who have died in pregnancy and childbirth. In some cultures, white symbolizes mourning and in others it symbolizes hope and life. The white ribbon represents this dual meaning globally. The White Ribbon Alliance not only works to sustain life and hope for all women, but also mourns and honors those women who did not survive pregnancy or childbirth.

The White Ribbon Alliance is the host of the new annual conference WIE Symposium (http://www.wienetwork.org). This year, the WIE Symposium will take place in New York and is timed to coincide with the Clinton Global Initiative and the UN General Assembly. Sarah Brown will host this year’s event alongside Arianna Huffington and Donna Karan.

Directions to Frying Pan at Pier 66 Maritime
Frying Pan (the Red Lightship) is featured in the book “New York’s 100 Best Party Places.”  The lightship is docked at Pier 66 Maritime, which has a seasonal bar & grill.  Vehicle access or taxi drop off is prohibited in the Hudson River Park, where Frying Pan is located.

Pier 66 Maritime is located at W 26th Street in the Hudson River Park.  Vehicle access or taxi drop off is forbidden in the Park. If traveling by car or taxi, drop off is at W 26th Street and 12th Ave. Cross street to Hudson River Park, where you will see a Float Bridge (tall wooden structure). Walk over Float Bridge to access Pier 66 Maritime.  Nearest subway stop is #1 and C line at W 23rd Street. You can also take the M23 bus going west to 12th Ave. (the last stop) and walk 3 blocks north to 26th Street. Visit the Frying Pan’s site to learn more about this unique venue – http://www.fryingpan.com.

#                #                #

For more information, photos or to set up interviews, please contact Green Galactic’s Lynn Tejada (née Hasty) at 213-840-1201 or lynn@greengalactic.com.

Royal/T piano painted by Kenny Scharf (photo credit: Amanda Brooks)

Royal/T, the playful art space, shop and café, is expanding its nighttime offerings with live entertainment, a new art cabaret space, tapas and other culinary treats, and extravagant special events — fusing popular culture, music, film, and contemporary art into a creative Westside lounge environment.  Set in Royal/T’s back gallery space, Nighttime at Royal/T‘s mission is to provide high quality eclectic programming in art-full, high-style surroundings filled with owner Susan Hancock‘s world-class contemporary art collection.  The space will be open every Wednesday, Thursday as well as selected additional nights, featuring cabaret acts and eclectic music performances. Cabaret nights are free and run from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Cover charge for most other events range from $5 to $20.  Royal/T will also continue to offer special evening events featuring films, DJ sets, art performances, and theme parties.  Nighttime at Royal/T events will feature French-Japanese fusion tapas except when a guest chef reigns in the kitchen.

For Immediate Release
August 17, 2010

Culver City’s Royal/T Introduces
Nighttime at Royal/T
Expanding Its Evening Offerings
With Art Cabaret Nights Every Wednesday & Thursday
+ Eclectic Special Events
Fall 2010

* Live Entertainment * High Art * Engineered Cocktails * World Class Tapas *

CULVER CITY, CA – Royal/T, the playful art space, shop and café, is expanding its nighttime offerings with live entertainment, a new art cabaret space, tapas and other culinary treats, and extravagant special events — fusing popular culture, music, film, and contemporary art into a creative Westside lounge environment.  Set in Royal/T’s back gallery space, Nighttime at Royal/T‘s mission is to provide high quality eclectic programming in art-full, high-style surroundings filled with owner Susan Hancock‘s world-class contemporary art collection.  The space will be open every Wednesday, Thursday as well as selected additional nights, featuring cabaret acts and eclectic music performances. Cabaret nights are free and run from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Cover charge for most other events range from $5 to $20.  Royal/T will also continue to offer special evening events featuring films, DJ sets, art performances, and theme parties.  Nighttime at Royal/T events will feature French-Japanese fusion tapas except when a guest chef reigns in the kitchen.  Royal/T (www.royal-t.org, 310.559.6300) is located at 8910 Washington Blvd. (back entrance at 8927 Lindblade St.), Culver City, CA 90232.

Fall 2010 NIghttime at Royal/T Event Highlights …

Evidence and Vibration Institute Orchestra

Wed. Aug. 25, 8:00 – 11:00pm -

An evening of improvised electronic music featuring Vibration Institute Orchestra and Evidence

Vibration Institute Orchestra (http://vibrationinstitutemusic.com/music) is an ambient improvisation group led by bassist/DJ/composer John von Seggern in collaboration with Matt Piper, Steve Tavaglione, and Laura Escudé.

Evidence (www.ecnedive.com) is a collaboration between sound artists Stephan Moore and Scott Smallwood, who have developed a distinctive language of deeply layered sound, using field recordings of natural and industrial sounds as a primary source of inspiration and sonic material.

Tapas menu will be available.

General admission is $10, $5 for students, at the door.
_____________________________________________

Jose Promis (photo courtesy of the artist)

Thu. Aug. 26, 6:00 – 11:00pm -

Cabaret night with world troubador Jose Promis and 80s power metal lounge lizzard Kate Gibbens

Chilean-born singer-songwriter Jose Promis is inspired by the international styles of old world troubadours, yet sets his music firmly in the 21st century. He began in the cabarets and independent theaters of Los Angeles in the mid-2000s and has also played throughout Europe (www.myspace.com/promis).

Classically trained and seasoned voice-belter Kate Gibbens delivers a lounge act filled with hair metal, touching ballads, and punk irony. The wild redhead covers metal favorites from Lita Ford, Journey, Van Halen, and Prince.

A la carte items from Master Sushi Chef Kenny Yamada will be available.
No door cover charge.
_____________________________________________

Soul Sisters LIVE (photo courtesy of the artists)

Wed. Sept. 1, 6:00 – 11:00pm -

Cabaret night with Soul Sisters LIVE

Soul Sisters LIVE are singing female/character illusionists.

The duo stars the humorous and uplifting Lady Red Couture (www.myspace.com/ladyredcouture)
and
the alluring and vivacious Roxy Wood (www.myspace.com/roxywood).

www.myspace.com/bootylicous77

A la carte items from Master Sushi Chef Kenny Yamada will be available.

No door cover charge.

_____________________________________________

The Kandinsky Effect (photo: Florence Grimmeisen)

Fri. Sept. 3, 8:00 – 10:00pm -

Modern jazz with The Kandinsky Effect

The Kandinsky Effect is a 3-peice modern jazz ensemble searching for new ways to improvise within the jazz idiom.  Saxophonist Warren Walker, bassist Gael Petrina, and drummer Gauthier Garrigue can be found lurking along the borders of jazz, rock, electronica, hip hop, and experimental sounds searching for freedom of expression.

www.facebook.com/TheKandinskyEffect

Tapas menu will be available.

General admission is $10
$5 for students,  at the door
_____________________________________________

Theo Bleckmann (photo: Susie Knoll)

Wed. Sept. 15, 8:30 – 10:30pm -

Jazz and rock with the Theo Bleckmann & Ben Monder Duo

An eclectic jazz singer and new music composer, Grammy-nominated Theo Bleckmann makes music that is accessibly sophisticated, unsentimentally emotional, and seriously playful.  In addition to his work as a soloist, Bleckmann loves to mix it up with other musicians. He maintains an ongoing creative relationship with guitar phenomenon Ben Monder, generating a series of performances and a pair of albums that wreak beautiful havoc with standard expectations of jazz and rock.

www.theobleckmann.com

Tapas menu will be available.
General admission is $20, $10 for students, at the door.

Purchase tickets at: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/124070
_____________________________________________

For the Love of God, Laugh (2007) by Damien Hirst

Thu. Sept. 23, 8:00pm – 1:00am -

The Warholian Exhibition Opening Party

To celebrate Warholian, an exhibit of photos, film, portraits and objects inspired by Andy Warhol, Royal/T will kick off the show with a Factory-inspired opening extravaganza, which promises to be the see-and-be-seen event of the season.  Party features DJ sets by the iconic DJ Diabetic (aka Shepard Fairey) and David J (Bauhaus / Love & Rockets) who will be spinning a special Warholcentric DJ set.  The exhibit features a variety of recent Warhol-inspired pieces by artists such as Takashi Murakami, Richard Prince, Jeff Koons, and Damien Hirst, celebrating the great pop artist’s deep influence on contemporary art. Curated by Eric Shiner, The Milton Fine Curator of Art at The Andy Warhol Museum, the exhibit also features some of Warhol’s most recognizable original artwork including “Marilyn” (1967), “Electric Chair” (1971), “Dollar Sign” (1981) and many more from the Alan Finkelstein Collection.

The Warholian exhibit is free and open to the public 10:00am to 6:00pm daily from Sept. 24, 2010 through Jan. 31, 2011.
_____________________________________________

Myra Melford (photo: Valerie Trucchia)

Mon. Oct. 4, 7:00 – 11:00pm -

Angel City Jazz Festival

This benefit for Angel City Arts features an ensemble led by pianist Myra Melford, with Mark Dresser, Stomu Takeishi and Alex Cline, acclaimed Japanese Butoh dancer Oguri, and Chef Paul Canales of Oliveto Restaurant. Guests are invited to enjoy food inspired by the music, which is simultaneously interpreted in dance.

A four-course meal will be served during the performance. There will also be an art auction with proceeds donated to Angel City Arts.

More info at www.angelcityjazz.com.

Tickets $65 per person, available at: www.brownpapertickets.com/producerevent/121612?prod_id=22581
_____________________________________________

MTKJ Quartet (photo: Paul Kikuchi)

Tue. Nov. 2, 8:00 – 10:30pm -

Jazz performance by MTKJ Quartet

MTKJ Quartet is Jason Mears on saxophones/clarinet, Kris Tiner on trumpets/flugelhorn, Paul Kikuchi on drums/percussion, and Ivan Johnson on contrabass.

www.emptycagequartet.com

Tapas menu will be available.

General admission is $10

$5 for students
at the door

_____________________________________________

For Nighttime at Royal/T calendar of events, see: www.royal-t.org/about/news/.

Menu
Tapas: For most evening events, when a guest chef is not reigning in the kitchen, Royal/T will feature the tapas menu.  Along with signature soju cocktails, specialty mimosas, wine, sake, and craft beer selections, Nighttime at Royal/T diners in the back lounge can choose from a selection of French-Japanese fusion tapas. Among the choices are Crispy Spicy Tuna topped with micro wasabi, Kobe Beef Sliders served three ways (Quail egg up, tomato chutney, and blue cheese & caramelized onions); Kurobuta Pork Belly with puréed taro and spicy rice noodles; and Sweet Potato Fries. Plate prices range from $4 to $10.

Sushi Pop Art Series: On Wednesdays and Thursdays, from Aug. 26 to Sept. 9, 6:00 – 10:00pm, the Royal/T café is hosting a special Sushi Pop Art series, a pop up dinner series featuring creations by artistic sushi luminary Chef Kenny Yamada (Hell’s Kitchen, Katsuya).  The Royal/T café will feature two prix fixe menus by reservation only ($45 and $90) during the series.  On these evenings, during Yamada’s tenure, the Nighttime at Royal/ T lounge menu will feature an à la carte selection from his Sushi Pop Art dishes for walk-in diners in the lounge.  For additional details on the Sushi Pop Art series and café reservations, see http://kennyyamada.com. Reservations are not required in the lounge.

About Royal/T
Located in Culver City’s Art District, Royal/T is a playful blending of café, concept shop, and art exhibition space. The 10,000-square-foot space reflects the interior realm of fantasy that strongly influences the artists included in owner Susan Hancock’s contemporary art collection. Royal/T’s café is inspired by the meido kissa (maid café) phenomena of Akihabara, Tokyo’s electronic district. Re-contextualizing the underground culture of Japan that celebrates “cosplay” (costume play), waitresses dress in maid uniforms with a Lolita-esque touch, while serving an amalgam of French and Japanese cuisine with local California style. The art space showcases curated exhibitions with a focus on Japanese contemporary art; and an inventive concept store emulates the collection’s sophistication, a seamless merging of Japanese pop culture and high-end design. Currently on display at Royal/T is the The Never Ending Story with works by an international group of artists working with the theme fairytales, and its contemporary expression, fantasy.  Starting Sept. 24, the Warholian exhibit features photos, film, portraits and objects by and inspired by Andy Warhol.

Susan Hancock, Owner
Susan Hancock opened Royal/T in the gallery district of Culver City in April 2008.  A philanthropist and avid art collector, Hancock is a member of the Director’s Circle at LACMA and serves as a member of MOCA Partners at LA’s MOCA Contemporary. Outside Los Angeles, Hancock serves as a member of the International Collector’s Circle at MOCA Miami and serves on the Producer’s Council at New York’s New Museum. She has previously served on the International Director’s Council for the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, and on the Board of Trustees at the Independent Curators International. For five years, she has served on the Acquisition Committee for Painting and Sculpture at the Whitney, and has supported various museum shows such as “Little Boy” curated by Murakami at the Japan Society in New York.

The Susan Hancock Collection
Susan Hancock’s collection of contemporary Japanese art includes works by Chiho Aoshima, Chinatsu Ban, Yayoi Deki, Mitsuhiro Ikeda, Izumi Kato, Hideaki Kawashima, Mahomi Kunikata, Yayoi Kusama, Mr., Takashi Murakami, Yoshitomo Nara, Mitsuhiro Okamoto, Aya Takano, Yuken Teruya, and Keisuke Yamamoto. Other artists represented in her collection include Ghada Amer, Stephan Balkenhol, Louise Bourgeois, Cecily Brown, Tracy Emin, Tom Friedman, Mark Grotjahn, Jim Hodges, Mike Kelley, Chris Ofili, Elizabeth Peyton, Richard Prince, Wilhelm Sasnal, Fred Tomaselli, Piotr Uklanski, and Lisa Yuskavage.

#             #            #

For more information, photos, or to arrange an interview, please contact Green Galactic’s Lynn Hasty at 213-840-1201 and lynn@greengalactic.com.

Royal/T piano painted by Kenny Scharf (photo credit: Amanda Brooks)

Nonlife Zoo Photo Courtesy Royal/T

Angelenos are invited to dress like their favorite zoo animals and explore their wild sides at Royal/T‘s A Night in the Jungle on Friday, August 6, 2010 from 8:00pm to 1:00am in celebration of The Nonlife Zoo‘s pop-up space residency – an imaginary visual of animal existence on earth. A Night in the Jungle will feature international music maestro DJ Daedelus spinning in the back space as partygoers dance the night away and enjoy Royal/T’s signature soju cocktails, beer, wine, and new vegetarian tapas. If any guest needs a break from dancing, owner Susan Hancock will provide animal card energy readings and rides throughout the space will be available courtesy of artist Kenny Scharf‘s Cartz Royale. The Nonlife Zoo residency, presented by Royal/T in conjunction with MollaSpace, raises awareness and funds for animal preservation.

The Nonlife Zoo (photo courtesy of Royal/T)

For Immediate Release
August 2, 2010

Royal/T and MollaSpace Present
A Night in the Jungle
Featuring DJ Daedelus
Celebrating The Nonlife Zoo’s Pop-Up Space Residency
At Royal/T in Culver City, CA

~ Raising Awareness & Funds for Animal Preservation ~

A Night in the Jungle Party – Friday, August 6, 2010
The Nonlife Zoo Pop-Up Store – Runs Through August 23, 2010

CULVER CITY, CA  Angelenos are invited to dress like their favorite zoo animals and explore their wild sides at Royal/T‘s A Night in the Jungle on Friday, August 6, 2010 from 8:00pm to 1:00am in celebration of The Nonlife Zoo’s pop-up space residency – an imaginary visual of animal existence on earth. A Night in the Jungle will feature international music maestro DJ Daedelus spinning in the back space as partygoers dance the night away and enjoy Royal/T’s signature soju cocktails, beer, wine, and new vegetarian tapas. If any guest needs a break from dancing, owner Susan Hancock will provide animal card energy readings and rides throughout the space will be available courtesy of artist Kenny Scharf’s Cartz Royale. The Nonlife Zoo residency, presented by Royal/T in conjunction with MollaSpace, raises awareness and funds for animal preservation. Tickets are available online for $10 at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/122038 and at the door for $15 (space permitting). A portion of store proceeds go to charity. No one under 21 years old will be admitted. Royal/T (www.royal-t.org, 310.559.6300) is at 8910 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232.

Daedelus (photo credit: Laura Darling)

Menu:
To further celebrate The Nonlife Zoo’s residency, Royal/T has created a special menu of animal-friendly vegetarian tapas ($5-7), available through August 23, including:

Beet & Spinach Salad ($5)
Vegetable Gyoza ($6)
Basil-Infused Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce ($6)
Cold Soba Sesame Salad ($6)
Portobello Sliders with Roasted Bell Pepper and Shiso Pesto Aioli ($7)

In addition to the vegetarian specials, adults can also enjoy a selection of beer and wine alongside a “Pink Iguana” cocktail—a specialty martini made with fresh watermelon juice, cilantro, lime juice, and soju ($7).

About The Nonlife Zoo:
The Nonlife Zoo is an imaginary visual of our planet created to raise awareness of animal preservation in hopes of improving our social responsibility to the environment. The Nonlife Zoo series was inspired to reflect on our behavior and the impact on the intricate balance between nature and life on earth. All animals are designed with human-like standing forms and unified expressions to remind us of their coexistence on this planet. They all have cuddly and colorful appearances, yet with conflicting emotionless expressions, as if they are silently expressing their call for help. A portion of all the proceeds from The Nonlife Zoo pop-up store purchases at Royal/T will go to help save threatened species. The Nonlife Zoo exhibit is designed by 28 biaugust and is presented in conjunction with MollaSpace, whose mission is to advocate, advance, and create the art of living in its own way as a platform for designers worldwide to showcase their talent and provide designer products to consumers. Celebrating its 3-year anniversary in 2010, MollaSpace’s expanding range of products includes lighting, home, office, and personal accessories, electric home appliances, decorative art, and furniture. For more information about MollaSpace, please visit www.mollaspace.com.

About DJ Daedelus:
Alfred Darlington is your musical maestro hailing from the City of Angels. With an eye for early Victorian Dandyism, an ear towards handmade / played electronic music, his is a very individual ‘bespoke’ outlook. Having numerous international releases and tours to his credit he has shared the stage and albums with a diverse list of luminaries from Madlib to Daniel Johnston, from MF DOOM to Jean Jacques Perrey, from Diplo to … well this listing game could go on for quite a while. Daedelus has releases with labels Ninja Tune, Warp, Brainfeeder, Stones Throw, and many more.  www.myspace.com/daedelusdarling

About Royal/T:
Located in Culver City, Royal/T is a playful blending of café, concept shop, and art exhibition space. The 10,000-square-foot space reflects the interior realm of fantasy that strongly influences the artists included in owner Susan Hancock’s art collection. Royal/T’s café is inspired by the meido kissa (maid café) phenomena of Akihabara, Tokyo’s electronic district. Re-contextualizing the underground culture of Japan that celebrates “cosplay” (costume play), waitresses dress in maid uniforms with a Lolita-esque touch, while serving an amalgam of French and Japanese cuisine with local California style. The art space showcases curated exhibitions with a focus on Japanese contemporary art and an inventive concept store that emulates the collection’s sophistication, a seamless merging of Japanese pop culture and high-end design. Royal/T café is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. The concept store and space are open from 10:00am – 6:00pm daily as well as in the evening during A Night in the Jungle on August 6.

Also Coming Soon to Royal/T:
On Saturday, August 7, from noon to 4:00pm, families can enjoy A Day at the Zoo, with kid-centric activities, such as face painting, vegetarian small plates, and a refreshing watermelon drink. Children can also sample cupcakes from the Animal Cupcake Corner, including giraffe, zebra, and tiger-themed varieties ($3), in addition to a costumed tiger character who will give young guests rides in the Cartz Royale. Families are invited to enjoy The Nonlife Zoo and reflect on the coexistence of humans and animals in nature.  Event is free and open to the public.

An evening of live experimental electronic music featuring Vibration Institute Orchestra and Evidence is set for Wednesday, August 25, 2010 from 8:00pm to 11:00pm at Royal/T. Evidence (www.ecnedive.com) is a collaboration between sound artists Stephan Moore and Scott Smallwood, who have developed a distinctive language of deeply layered sound, using field recordings of natural and industrial sounds as a primary source of inspiration and sonic material. Vibration Institute Orchestra (http://vibrationinstitutemusic.com/music), with Matt Piper and Laura Escudé, is an ambient improvisation group led by bassist/dj/composer John von Seggern. General admission is $10, $5 for students, at the door.

# # #

For more information, photos, or to arrange an interview, please contact Green Galactic’s Lynn Hasty at 213.840.1201 and lynn@greengalactic.com.

Royal/T (photo courtesy of Royal/T)

A Night in the Jungle
Celebrating The Nonlife Zoo’s Pop-Up Space Residency
Featuring DJ Daedelus

WHEN: Friday, August 6, 2010 | 8:00pm to 1:00am

WHERE: Royal/T 8910 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232
310.559.6300, www.royal-t.org

COST: Tickets available for $10 at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/122038
and at the door for $15 (space permitting)

WHY: To have fun while raising awareness for endangered species.
As of January 1, 2010, 8,811 species were categorized as threatened.

Please join us to party for a cause.

Buddha Bark

Buddha Bark
Celebrity and Canine Style Lounge
Debuts During the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards
In Hollywood on Friday, January 15 & Saturday, January 16, 2010

Hosted by Actress Camille Guaty, Buddha Bark Founder
Madison Svensson, and Stylist to the Stars Chaz Dean

LOS ANGELES, CA – Buddha Bark is the premiere wellness, pampering and gifting lounge for celebrities, media, tastemakers and their dogs to primp and prepare pre-awards shows, debuting in January 2010 during the 67th annual Golden Globe Awards. Created by canine wellness expert, Madison Svensson, her Buddha Bark event series is the first to bring together top experts and brands from both the celebrity lifestyle world and the canine wellness community. Showcasing cutting-edge organic treatments, services and products for people and their pets, Buddha Bark will take place on Friday, January 15th and Saturday, January 16, 2009 from 11:00am – 5:00pm. Find refuge in an exclusive Zen-inspired garden oasis located in the heart of the awards show action zone complete with bungalows, a dog park, salon, art gallery, fashion runway, performance art, walking gardens and more. For additional information, please visit www.buddhabark.com.

Hosted by Buddha Bark founder Madison Svensson, hair stylist to the stars Chaz Dean, and actress Camille Guaty, this pre-Golden Globes weekend retreat will take place at the gorgeous, canine friendly Chaz Dean Studio located at 6444 Fountain Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90028. The January event will feature a canine couture fashion show, animal communicators, art exhibit, silent auction, doggie talent showcase, hair salon appointments, canine mini-massages, mobile groomers, agility demos, and Frisbee dogs pet tricks. Refreshments provided by Coca Cola, Dasani Water, Hansen’s, Honest Tea, Synergy Kombucha, and Vitamin Water. The event will also feature celebrity dog lovers Elisabetta Canalis, Daryl Hannah, Kevin Connely, Molly Sims, Kristin Bauer (“True Blood”), Charlotte Ross (“Glee”), Jason Biggs, Daisy Fuentes, David Faustino, Kym Johnson (“Dancing with the Stars”), Corin Nemec, Rex Lee, Elaine Hendrix, Rachel Hunter, Rebecca DeMornay, and more.

Intended to be fun and relaxing for guests, each event will benefit and draw attention to serious animal rights causes. Buddha Bark is about extending the circle of compassion by educating and promoting a lifestyle of harmony and wellness between humans and their canine companions. Buddha Bark’s debut event will benefit Best Friends Animal Society and its campaign, “Puppies Aren’t Products,” which advocates supporting adoption and shelters rather than dishonest and inhumane pet retailers and breeders involved with puppy mills. Learn more here: http://www.bestfriends.org/nomorehomelesspets/puppies_arent_products.cfm.

Celebrity and canine wellness experts will host a series of activities throughout both event days from 11:00am – 5:00pm. Dogs are welcome both days as are celebrities and VIP members of the media. This event is not open to the public. Appointments may be booked with animal communicators, dog groomers, canine and people masseuse/masseurs, and for mini facials, makeovers, and styling sessions with Chaz Dean Studio. Celebrity transport will also be available between Buddha Bark and the GBK Mondrian gifting lounge and/or to/from home.

Planned activities, events and entertainment during Buddha Bark’s pre-Golden Globes pampering weekend include:

Doggie Fashion Show presented by D.O.G. Pet Boutique -
A celebrity hosted doggie couture Spring 2010 fashion show featuring fun, themed outfits from the best dog fashion designers in the world. The show will run on both Friday and Saturday afternoon commencing at 3:00pm both days and will be presented by the world’s hottest pet boutique – D.O.G. Pet Boutique.

Art Gallery and Silent Auction to benefit Best Friends Animal Society -
The art gallery will showcase artistic expressions depicting man’s relationship with the canine world through photography, sculpture, painting, drawing, and mixed media. Both humorous and dramatic pieces regarding a dog’s perspective on life will be included. Featured artists to include Jesse Freidin Photographer, Nancy Levine, Andy Stolarek, Sam Price, Shaun Alexander, and Shine Pet Photos. Auction items include a limited edition Chién Vivant Couture “Nice” doggie bed (retail value $ 1,947), clothes by visionary couture and eco-designer Linda Loudermilk, artwork, jewelry, spa services, and much more. Proceeds from Best Friends Animal Society Silent Auction will benefit its “Puppies Aren’t Products” campaign.

Chaz Dean Studio -
Stylists from the salon will be pampering celebrities and media with salon appointments for blowouts, cleansing and styling.

Facials –
The Healing Rose will provide mini facials.

Canine Wellness Services -
Appointments are available for Animal Communicator sessions and Canine mini-massages. Canine mobile groomer Wizard of Paws is also available for appointments. Onsite pet sitting and walking provided by Healthy Spot.

Entertainment -
Agility Demonstrations, Frisbee Dogs, and Pet Tricks.

DJs -
DJ entertainment provided by Glenn Wiekert of ArcheDream for HUMANKIND, Brion Topolski of Zen Arts, Ken Hankins of ElectroBass, Ryan Jesena aka Bunny DJ Lu5h.

Living Sculpture -
Dancers, will add to the magic of this weekend oasis with movement that communicates universal ideas and emotions to promote understanding and compassion.

Events sponsors include Beasty Bling (http://www.beastybling.com), Buddha Dog Massage (http://buddhadog.webs.com), Chien de Nimes (www.chiendenimes.com), Chién Vivant Couture (www.chienvivantcouture.com), Dog Pet Boutique (www.dogpetboutique.com), Doggie Driving (www.doggiedriving.com), Kane and Couture (www.kaneandcouture.com), Maggie Bags (www.maggiebags.net), Modern Dog Magazine (www.moderndogmagazine.com), Pet Flys (http://www.petflys.com), Shine Pet Photos (www.shinepetphotos.com), The Pet Loo (http://www.thepetloo.com), Weider Pet Health (www.weiderpethealth.com), and Wellness Natural Food for Pets (www.wellnesspetfood.com).

About the Hosts:
Madison Svensson is the founder and spokesperson of the Buddha Bark canine lounge event series. She is a canine wellness trainer and consultant. She is certified in Canine Massage, a member of IAAMB (International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork), a member of The Animal Wellness Association, and the producer of DJ Doggie canine bioacoustic music therapy CDs.

Celebrity hair stylist Chaz Dean single-handedly transformed the beauty industry with the wildly successful WEN Hair & Body Care line. The all-natural line has replaced the harmful detergents and sulfates in soap and shampoo with nourishing botanical ingredients that work wonders on even the most dry, damaged and frizzy hair. When Dean is not focusing on developing new groundbreaking products and his personal clients, you’ll find him hiking with his dogs, who even have their own playground at the studio.

American actress Camille Guaty’s first big break came when she was a finalist on the WB’s reality show “Popstars,” which led to her film debut in the movie Chaos Theory and her television introduction as Maria, the maid in the sitcom “The Help.” Guaty has had major roles in the television shows “Raising Dad,” “Prison Break,” “Las Vegas” and in the Disney Channel original movie Gotta Kick It Up. She is currently starring on the hit ABC show “The Nine.” Of Buddha Bark founder Svensson, Guaty shares, “I am so supportive of Madison and everything she is doing for our furry four-legged friends. My two dogs were at a kill shelter and they’re the best decisions I have ever made. I support “Don’t shop, Adopt” and you should too!”

About the Event Venue:
Located in the heart of Hollywood, this private complex is a Zen-like refuge tucked away in a charming bungalow surrounded by bamboo and filled with the scent of eucalyptus and lavender. Chaz Dean chose to have no signage at his studio. Instead you’ll find ivy-covered walls, lush foliage, trickling fountains, calming sitting areas and hanging lanterns. The living room and parlor of this 1921 Craftsman home are filled with overstuffed velvet furniture in jewel tones and exquisite hand wrought iron surrounds the hanging mirrors at the stylist’s stations. The salon’s services include hair color and cuts, conditioning treatments and makeup application and lessons. Learn more at http://www.chazdean.com.

About Best Friends Animal Society:
Best Friends Animal Society is a nonprofit, membership organization building no-kill programs and partnerships that will bring about a day when there are No More Homeless Pets. The society’s leading initiatives in animal care and community programs are coordinated from its Kanab, Utah, headquarters, the country’s largest no-kill sanctuary. This work is made possible by the personal and financial support of a grassroots network of members and community partners across the nation. In 2009, Best Friends celebrates its 25th anniversary. More information at www.bestfriends.org.

About the Golden Globes:
This year, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association’s (HFPA) 67th annual Golden Globe Awards® will be seen in more than 160 countries worldwide with an estimated 14.5 million viewers and attendance by all major film and TV stars. HFPA members represent some 55 countries with a combined readership of more than 250 million. The Golden Globes is one of the few awards ceremonies that span both television and motion picture achievements. Today, the Golden Globes recognize achievements in 25 categories – 14 in motion pictures and 11 in television. Dick Clark Productions has produced the Golden Globes ceremony since 1983. All nominees will be invited such as Emily Blunt, Sandra Bullock, Helen Mirren, Carey Mulligan, Gabourey Sadibe, Jeff Bridges, George Clooney, Colin Firth, Morgan Freeman, Tobey Maguire, Marion Cotillard, Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Matt Damon, Daniel Day Lewis, Robert Downey Jr., Joseph Gordon Levitt, and Michael Stuhlbarg. For more information please visit http://www.goldenglobes.org.

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For more information, photos, interviews and media credentials, please contact Green Galactic’s Lynn Hasty at lynn@greengalactic.com or 213-840-1201.

Photo credit Aaron Gautchi

When Lucent Dossier Experience started their new artist residency in the heart of Hollywood last month, they were presented with an unusual challenge: the h.wood space they now inhabit on Wednesday nights is a series of small, den-like chambers without a large, conventional stage. While this could have been a liability, the inventive troupe rose to the occasion by reconfiguring their show, conceptually transforming h.wood’s labyrinth of rooms into a modern day cabinet of human curiosities. Wednesdays through December 23, 2009, Lucent Dossier Experience opens h.wood’s doors every week at 8:00 p.m. with the troupe’s tantalizing performances from 9:00 p.m. to midnight, and DJs/dancing continuing until 2:00 a.m. The residency runs through December, culminating with their Orphan’s Ball on December 23rd which benefits Cuddle The World, Lucent’s charity project for disadvantaged children.For Immediate Release: December 6, 2009

Lucent Dossier Experience Transforms h.wood
Into a Modern Day Cabinet of Human Curiosities
With Performances On Wednesdays
Running Through December 23rd 2009

LOS ANGELES, CA – When Lucent Dossier Experience started their new artist residency in the heart of Hollywood last month, they were presented with an unusual challenge: the h.wood space they now inhabit on Wednesday nights is a series of small, den-like chambers without a large, conventional stage. While this could have been a liability, the inventive troupe rose to the occasion by reconfiguring their show, conceptually transforming h.wood’s labyrinth of rooms into a modern day cabinet of human curiosities. Wednesdays through December 23, 2009, Lucent Dossier Experience opens h.wood’s doors every week at 8:00 p.m. with the troupe’s tantalizing performances from 9:00 p.m. to midnight, and DJs/dancing continuing until 2:00 a.m. The residency runs through December, culminating with their Orphan’s Ball on December 23rd which benefits Cuddle The World, Lucent’s charity project for disadvantaged children. Admission to Lucent Dossier Experience is $15 on Wednesday nights. h.wood (formerly the Stork Lounge) is located at 1738 N. Orange, Los Angeles, CA 90028. Valet parking is available at the venue and self-parking is in the Hollywood + Highland Center complex (rates are $2 for 4 hours with validation, easy entrance to the parking on Orange or Highland). For information on the venue please call 323-871-2262 or visit www.thehwood.com. For more information on the event and to purchase advance tickets, please visit www.lucentdossier.com.

Historically, curiosity cabinets (aka wunderkammer or cabinets of wonder) were eclectic collections of artifacts including natural specimens, religious artifacts, art works, fantastical imaginary beings, historical relics, and other exotica. These rooms of wonder emerged in the sixteenth century and are considered the precursors to museums. They originally provided a retreat for contemplation and a view into strange new worlds with menageries of preserved fish, feathers, curious shells, stuffed reptiles, coins, coral, minerals, horns, tusks, skeletons, clocks, and a fascinating assortment of man-made objects. Often, the displays would contain a mix of fact and fiction, including mythical creatures. The Lucent Dossier Experience h.wood residency arouses a sense of awe similar to the static curiosity cabinets of yesteryear, but here the exotic specimen are in human form and operate in four dimensions (i.e., three dimensional physical space + the performative element of time.

The industrial vintage h.wood space, in the heart of Hollywood, with its two floors of dark nooks and crannies, perfectly houses Lucent Dossier Experience’s otherworldly spectacle into modern day wonder rooms. The club’s distressed leather couches, antique bookshelves, and old fashioned portraits echo the aristocratic library feel of the original wunderkammer.

Until Christmas, on Wednesday nights, Lucent Dossier Experience activates the h.wood maze of rooms into an exotic display of ethereal seductions with aerial artistry, soulful belly dancers, sleek other-worldy creatures, astral readings, decadent rose water foot baths, gypsies offering soul cleansing herbal elixirs, a post portal post office, temporary tribal tattoo parlor, and impish pranksters — all in fantastical haute couture costumes and makeup. Overhead, luminous aerial performers share the rafters with the antique chandeliers. A menagerie of exotic creatures add magic and mayhem including bizarre and alluring burlesque dancers, a bearded lady, spoken word poets, clowns, contortionists, elves, singers, jugglers, stilt walkers, and a sword swallower in a theatrical spectacle of feathers, chains, and lace.

Lucent Dossier loosely translates to a “collection of glowing light.” In the new residency, the interactive troupe provides a curious twist on the conventional, creating an experience that’s like stepping into a fractured Lewis Carroll dream. The result is a weird and wonderful funhouse where the performers activate the boho chic space, mixing with the local Hollywood flora and fauna, transforming Wednesday nights into a realm of new possibilities.

“All the different elements — the performers, the music, the space, the audience, and chance — come into play to create a very fluid, surrealistic wonderland where no two evenings are ever the same,” says Creative Director Dream Rockwell, “And we encourage guests to dress up in their finery, transform into exotic creatures, express themselves, and become part of the experience.”

A different DJ is featured each week along with live musical elements mixed in (that might including sitar, violins, drums, keyboards, guitar, vocals, or bass). On December 9th, Venice-based DJ, composer, and dance floor messiah KRADDY (founding member of the Glitch Mob) will hit the decks with a futuristic fusion of dubstep, hip hop, dance hall, and crunk all bumping together with his signature style of edits and remixes that make his sound super danceable and unique.

“The music is such an important part of the experience. We come from a very organized, and yet still underground, art and music scene. The sounds that came out of our scene 5-6 years ago are what’s being cultivated into the mainstream now,” says Rockwell, “The music makers, DJs, and producers around us are cutting edge and we are thrilled to be able to feature them. Many of them are now touring worldwide but they’re all still our friends. It’s great to have them come down and create musical magic for a night.”

DJs for December 16th and December 23rd TBD.

On December 16th, as a special treat, visual artist Jocelyn Marsh will show her work in collaboration with Lucent Dossier Experience, further enhancing that evening’s cabinet of curiosities. For ten years, Marsh has been collecting bones, insects, metal boxes, and various other interesting items — bringing them together into whimsical assemblages. She lives in Los Angeles with her cat skeleton, Whiskers. For more information on Marsh and her work, see: jocelynmarsh.com

The weekly residency will culminate with an Orphan’s Ball on December 23rd benefiting Cuddle The World. This Christmas Eve Eve-nt, a time to dance and celebrate with extended family, features a toy drive and other surprises. Guests are encouraged to bring something cuddly (new or gently used) for Lucent Dossier Experience to distribute at an orphanage this Spring when the troupe hits the road.

Cuddle the World is Lucent Dossier Experience’s non-profit organization that brings inspiration in the form of inter-active performance, musical instruments, clown noses, costumes, and fairy wings as well as sparks of love and security, in the form of teddy bears and snuggle blankets, to orphans around the globe. These children are in conditions where they receive very basic care but nothing more.

“We believe that we can help inspire these kids to think more creatively when they are dumped into the world at age 16 or 18 so that they will be able to make better choices for their lives as they are forced to fend for themselves with little or no support,” says Rockwell, “It’s the greatest project I have ever been a part of. I just love to see the little kids’ faces light up and know that what we are doing is worth every bit of time, money, and effort we have put into it.

Rockwell, in partnership with Shrine, a Pasadena-based artist, originally founded the troupe in December 2004 to nourish her love of the avant-garde in the form of dance, performance, music, and costuming. Now, five years later, the critically acclaimed Los Angeles-based tribe of inspiring artists has been featured in television commercials, print advertisements, music videos, and large-scale, live productions such as Coachella here in the US, Summer Sonic in Japan, and Electric Picnic in Ireland. Their h.wood residency follows up their hugely successful year-long run of sold-out shows at The Edison in downtown Los Angeles, which ran from April 2008 through April 2009. Also included in the group’s impressive resume is a photo spread in Italian Vogue (as captured by Steven Meisel); shows at top clubs throughout Los Angeles; and performances on MTV and at the official Grammy® Awards Party.

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For more information, photos, or to arrange interviews, please contact Green Galactic’s Lynn Hasty at 213-840-1201 or lynn@greengalactic.com.

Event Details:

Lucent Dossier Experience
- weekly artist residency -

h.wood
1738 N. Orange
Los Angeles, CA 90028
323-871-2262
www.thehwood.com

8:00pm – 2:00am
- Doors: 8:00pm
- DJ & dancing all night
- Shows: 9:00pm – 12midnight

Admission $15
- Join their mailing list for discounts

- Valet parking available at the venue
- Self parking in Hollywood + Highland complex – $2 for 4 hours with validation

www.lucentdossier.com

Proceeds from all three gifts support NextAid’s work to create sustainable solutions for African children orphaned by AIDS. For more information on NextAid, please visit http://www.nextaid.org.For Immediate Release: December 1, 2009

Los Angeles Humanitarian Organization NextAid
Offers Three Green, Philanthropic Holiday Gift Giving Options
Benefitting African Children in Need

Funk Aid for Africa CD • MUD Cares Eye Shadow • “Send a Child to School”

LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles-based humanitarian organization NextAid offers three “green” holiday giving options that benefit African children in need. All three philanthropic gifts are perfect for those who want their holiday giving to mean a bit more:
1.) Funk Aid for Africa, a critically acclaimed CD mix of funky goodness released by Dubspot
2.) MUD Cares Palette of Eye Colors – earthy eye shadows by Make-Up Designory (MUD)
3.) NextAid’s “Send a Child to School” program

Proceeds from all three gifts support NextAid’s work to create sustainable solutions for African children orphaned by AIDS. For more information on NextAid, please visit http://www.nextaid.org.

Details on NextAid’s three philanthropic/green gift giving options …

Funk Aid For Africa CD:
Funk Aid for Africa is a compilation created to raise funds for African children affected by AIDS by harnessing the positive power of music. It’s a funky soul vitamin for your body, mind and spirit – seamlessly blended into a super tight and tasty collage of dubbed out dancehall, reggae, funk, and afro-beat by DJ OBaH. All those involved, from DJ OBaH to the artists (like J Boogie and The Pimps of Joytown) who wrote the tracks, and Dubspot Records who generously produced/released the CD, have donated their time, skill and compositions. All proceeds from the sale of this compilation are going towards the construction of a “green” sports facility at NextAid’s environmental community center in Dennilton, South Africa. The complex serves as a beacon of hope in a community devastated by AIDS and poverty. The CD is priced between $10 – 12 (depending on site purchased from.)
http://www.funkaid.com/ (info/buy)
http://www.dancetracksdigital.com/search/release.php?x=release_info&release_id=46108 (preview/buy)
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=312426116&s=143441 (buy)
http://www.amazon.com/Funk-Aid-For-Africa/dp/B002BLA9PW (buy)

MUD Cares Palette Eye Shadow:
MUD Cares Palette ($25.00) is a quad of eye shadows developed and created by Make-Up Designory (MUD). Shades included are Spanish Gold, Cashmere, Dulce de Leche, and Moss. 100% of the proceeds go towards building homes for children in Africa who have been orphaned by AIDS. Each color is soft and finely milled with just a touch of sheen and the palette works for most skin tones and complexions. The sales of this specially-commissioned eye shadow will fund the final construction and initial operations of two children’s homes in a poverty-stricken town located 25 miles southeast of Nairobi. Each of these eco-friendly homes will provide long-term shelter, food and medical needs for 16 local orphans. The project also funds the children’s educational pursuits, from elementary school through secondary and university or trade school.
http://shop.mudshop.com/mud-cares-palette (info/buy)
http://www.mudblog.net/blog/make-up_designory_nextaid_building_a_foundation_for_a_better_tomorrow

NextAid’s “Send a Child to School” with goGogetters campaign:
A $75 donation to NextAid will assist in sending a child to school for a year. NextAid is working with a well-respected South African organization, loveLife, to be the beneficiary of NextAid’s “Send a Child to School” (aka goGogetters) campaign. goGogetters is a loveLife program that supports the many grandmothers (gogos) who have been dedicating their senior years to the wellbeing of orphans and vulnerable children. NextAid is raising funds for the schooling needs of some of the most vulnerable children who participate in the goGogetters program. All it takes is $75 to enable one child’s education for a year. This donation will ensure that a child is equipped with a school uniform, shoes and school supplies – all critical to a child’s education, especially as many children drop out of school due to embarrassment when they do not have these items. We all know that education is the ticket to a better future and this program presents an affordable and tangible way to make a difference.
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=328589150284 (details)
http://www.nextaid.org/donation.htm (donate)

About NextAid -
NextAid’s mission is to improve the lives of youth in Africa by implementing and advancing sustainable solutions. Through music events and public education initiatives, this Los Angeles-based humanitarian organization raises awareness for and partners with community-based projects and grassroots organizations in Africa. NextAid adheres to a holistic and integrated approach in addressing the spectrum of challenges associated with establishing lasting change. http://www.nextaid.org

NextAid images from the field: http://www.nextaid.org/photogallery.htm

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For more information, photos, or to arrange interviews, please contact Green Galactic’s Lynn Hasty at 213-840-1201 or lynn (at) greengalactic.com.

graphic design by Rafael Picco - http://rfpgraphics.com

Humanitarian organization NextAid presents its second annual World AIDS Day 2009 benefit event in Los Angeles on Tue. Dec. 1, 2009. The L.A. event is part of NextAid’s multi-date/multi-city fundraising campaign that kicks off in San Francisco on Wed. Nov. 25th and continues across the land until Dec. 31st. The swanky affair will take place at film director Chris Paine’s Marrakesh House located on a scenic hillside in Culver City. Entertainment for the big LA benefit will include Louie Vega, DJ Rap, Turntables on the Hudson with DJ Nickodemus and Nappy G with a Brazilian drum troupe plus Todd Simon on trumpet, Marques Wyatt, and Raul Campos along with comedians Ben Morrison, Ben Gleib, and Whitney Cummings.For Immediate Release: November 10, 2009

NextAid Presents Its Second Annual
“World AIDS Day 2009 Events”
Uniting the Dance Music Community With Fundraisers Across the U.S.
LA’s Kick-Off Event at Marrakesh House in Culver City
Featuring DJs, Comedians, Spirits, Food & Silent Auction
Tuesday, December 1, 2009

LOS ANGELES, CA – Humanitarian organization NextAid presents its second annual World AIDS Day 2009 Events (WAD2009), a multi-date fundraising campaign in cities across the U.S. starting on November 25, 2009 in San Francisco and continuing throughout the entire month of December. Tied into World AIDS Day (WAD), a globally recognized day, which takes place every year on December 1st, NextAid activates the international dance music community to raise funds and awareness for AIDS orphans and other vulnerable children in Africa. The first WAD, established in 1988 by the World Health Organization, was about raising money, increasing awareness, fighting prejudice and improving education, goals that are as relevant as ever in 2009. A portion of the proceeds from each of NextAid’s WAD2009 events will go towards two of its current projects on the ground: the Kawangware Street Children & Youth Project (KSCYP) in Nairobi, Kenya, and the loveLife GoGogetters program in South Africa. For more information on NextAid and all the WAD2009 events please visit http://www.nextaid.org/wad2009.

From its home base of Los Angeles, NextAid will throw a swanky affair on December 1st at film director Chris Paine’s Marrakesh House located on a scenic hillside in Culver City (private address, not to be posted, revealed upon ticket purchase). Entertainment for the big LA benefit will include Louie Vega, DJ Rap, Turntables on the Hudson with DJ Nickodemus and Nappy G with a Brazilian drum troupe plus Todd Simon on trumpet, Marques Wyatt, and Raul Campos along with comedians Ben Morrison, Ben Gleib, and Whitney Cummings. Enjoy ArcheDream For HUMANKIND dancers, an international blacklight mask theater company that communicates universal ideas and emotions to promote understanding and compassion. Honored guests in attendance will include Augustine “Agasto” Githaiga, the co-founder of KSCYP (his first trip to the States!) and Stephan McGuire (founder of Coalition for a Sustainable Africa and a producer on Leonardo DiCaprio’s film The 11th HOUR), who will speak briefly. The evening will also include a silent auction featuring ecological and fair trade products and services, photography of Africa, and work from artists of African descent.

Tickets for NextAid’s LA benefit cost $75 if purchased by 11/20/09, and $100 afterwards and at the door. An open bar featuring cocktails and mixers, plus light food provided by organic and/or local restaurants will be available. Food and beverage sponsors include JETT Vodka, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Kim Crawford Wines, organic juices and functional drinks by Purity Organic, AKBAR cuisine of India, Luna & Larry’s Coconut Bliss, Tia’s Bakery, and The Conservatory for Coffee, Tea & Cocoa. Several NextAid partner organizations will have booths set up on-site including MUD cosmetics [http://shop.mudshop.com/mud-cares-palette], and handmade Kawangware bags from the KSCYP kids [www.africabags.com]. This special NextAid-produced fundraiser will be streamed live on the web thanks to In Soul We Trust. For more information and tickets please visit: http://www.nextaid.org/wad2009/dec01.html.

Additional L.A. event partners include Grace Kim Consulting, Homemade LA, Jeromy Robert Photography, Motion Audio, Space:Loft:Six, and Viceroy Hotel.

Similar fundraisers are happening around the country, starting with San Francisco on November 25th at supperclub with headliners D:FUSE and Sen-Sei. The East Coast kick-off takes place two days later on Friday, November 27th at New York City’s Sullivan Room thanks to Giant Step and Turntables on the Hudson featuring DJ Nickodemus and Nappy G. Additional WAD2009 event/promoter partners include DEEP, Insomniac, Tropical, and Uniting Souls/Free Thinking (all based in LA), as well as loom (Omaha), OM Records (S.F.), Playloop (Philadelphia), Uhuru Afrika (Boston), and House Music Society (Charlotte). The dance music scenes of other cities have also responded to this call for action, totaling over a dozen events confirmed so far throughout the month of December with additional promoters, artists and DJs still joining the effort.

NextAid has partnered with organizations and media partners with deep electronic music and DJ culture roots such as Fusicology, Green Galactic, ReEvolution Marketing, Rhythmism, The MML, URB Magazine, and Wantickets to help with the massive promotional efforts for NextAid’s growing number of WAD2009 events.

The funds raised from the World AIDS Day 2009 campaign of events will go towards two of NextAid’s current projects:
- The Kawangware Street Children & Youth Project (KSCYP) in Nairobi, Kenya – http://www.nextaid.org/kawangware.htm
- The loveLife’s goGogetters program and NextAid’s “Send A Child to School” campaign in South Africa

Locally created and managed, KSCYP strives to get youth off the streets of Kawangware, a slum bordering Nairobi, by providing opportunities for performance activities and economic development. The profits generated for KSCYP help support the youth workers’ basic needs such as food, shelter, medical care and education, while also taking care of the community’s orphaned and vulnerable children. NextAid has joined forces with KSCYP by committing to raise funds for the construction of an eco-friendly, multipurpose facility for the project’s micro-business.

NextAid is also working with the well-respected South African organization, loveLife, to be the beneficiary of NextAid’s “Send a Child to School” campaign. goGogetters is a loveLife program to support the many grandmothers (gogos) who dedicate their old-age years to the wellbeing of orphans and vulnerable children. NextAid is raising funds for the schooling needs of some of the most helpless children who participate in the goGogetters program. All it takes is $75 to fund one child’s education for an entire year. This donation will ensure that school fees are paid and the child is equipped with a school uniform, shoes and school supplies.

NextAid represents the dance music community’s response to AIDS in Africa…

NextAid receives support from a wide range of entertainment industry leaders including some of the most internationally recognized names in dance music, such as Louie Vega, DJ Dan, Miguel Migs, Nickodemus, DJ Rap, OM Records, Dubspot, and URB Magazine. From mega-events like Miami’s annual Winter Music Conference to small clubs and through benefits and other music-related activities, NextAid channels the positive energy on the dance floor across the globe to children in Africa, thus providing an opportunity for this niche demographic to Using the Beats of Our Generation to Provide Hope for the Next. Check out NextAid’s Artists & DJs PSA to learn more: http://www.kyte.tv/ch/335172-nextaid/530357-artistsanddjsfornextaid

About Marrakesh House -
Located on a hillside adjacent to California’s newest State Park, the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook in Culver City, Marrakesh House is one of the most environmentally friendly remodels in Southern California. Documentary filmmaker Chris Paine, director of the acclaimed film Who Killed the Electric Car? purchased the home in 2007 with the aim to transform the original Mid 20th Century Modern home into a model for sustainable living in the 21st century. In the process, Paine has also created a private residence that doubles as venue for art, music and culture in the surrounding community – http://marrakeshhouse.com.

About NextAid -
NextAid’s mission is to improve the lives of youth in Africa by implementing and advancing sustainable solutions. Through music events and public education initiatives, this Los Angeles-based humanitarian organization raises awareness for and partners with community-based projects and grassroots organizations in Africa. NextAid adheres to a holistic and integrated approach in addressing the spectrum of challenges associated with establishing lasting change. NextAid provides empowering opportunities for concerned individuals to make a tangible difference.

The UN estimated that every 14 seconds, an African child loses a parent to AIDS, and every day, more than 6,000 young Africans aged 15 – 24 acquire the HIV virus. After more than two decades of AIDS devastating the continent where life began, only 10% of the 15 million AIDS orphans are receiving any kind of public support. The enormity of the AIDS pandemic demands a response from every corner of society. NextAid believes that focusing on children is the most effective way to impact this crisis and uses the collective energy generated on the dance floor to make a difference.

About World AIDS Day -
World AIDS Day is a day when individuals and organizations from around the world come together to bring attention to the global AIDS epidemic. This year marks the 21st anniversary of World AIDS Day with the theme of “Universal Access and Human Rights.” The human rights approach is comprehensive, tying directly into the response needed for universal access to treatment, prevention, care and support. World AIDS Day is important in reminding people that HIV has not gone away, and that there are many things still to be done. More information can be found at www.worldaidscampaign.org.

According to UNAIDS 2008 estimates, there are 33.2 million people living with HIV, including 2.5 million children. During 2007 some 2.5 million people became newly infected with the virus. Around half of all people who become infected with HIV do so before they are 25 and are killed by AIDS before they are 35. Around 95% of people with HIV and AIDS live in developing nations. But HIV today is a threat to men, women and children on all continents around the world

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Sign up for the NextAid mailing list to stay updated -
http://visitor.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001JXuPjrD-WUudiLFvEMmEjdSdRyVkyRSX

For more information, photos or interviews, please contact Green Galactic’s
Lynn Hasty at 213-840-1201 or lynn@greengalactic.com.