Meet Terence Shaun McGovern, Artist and Model

Terence Shaun "T-Shaun" McGovern is a 21 year old artist/model. His music style mainly consists of R&B and hip-hop, and he writes, records, and engineers all of his songs. He continuously works at his music to improve his skills as an artist. Music has gotten T-Shaun through many difficulties, and makes him feel full of life, meaning, and purpose. From talent shows to open mic nights, he has performed in Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and Hollywood.

1. When did you first get into writing your own music?

About a year ago I started getting into it. Collaborating with other artists has helped me get better. And I feel the more and more you write, the better you get.

2. What does engineering and producing your own work add to your music?

It lets you have more control over your music, and making it the way you want it to sound. A lot of engineers and producers have different styles, and sometimes they won't fit you. Personally I like to do it myself because I know it will come out the best it can.

3. What inspired you to move from New Jersey to California?

Change, a lot of people are afraid of it but I think it's crucial if you want to succeed. But I wanted to be close to the entertainment industry center. The weather isn't so bad here either.

4. What projects are you currently working on?

I have been practicing a lot of acoustic songs for live shows. Also I have some music on the back burner. At this point in time I'm waiting to find the right team to help me with my album.

5. Do you have any dream projects you'd especially love to be able to do?

To have a legit album the world can hear. Working with all professional people that are the best at what they do helping bring out the best me possible. I'd love to collaborate with Lil Wayne, Jay Z, Drake, Nikki Minaj, and many more.

Thanks, T-Shaun!

Meet Ian Filippini, Travel Writer

Ian Filippini is a travel writer based out of Santa Barbara where he is also an active member of the business community. Filippini is highly lauded for being one of the city's biggest advocates and is known as a local expert. Filippini has recently launched a series of digital travel magazines with Santa Barbara recommendations as well as extensively documenting his travels around the world.

1. What first attracted you to Santa Barbara?

I was interested in Santa Barbara from my first visit. It is a sleepy beach community unlike any other, and they have a large city just off the coast that invites me. They have a lovely food scene, and I love the way to city looks when I am staring at the ocean. I feel at peace in Santa Barbara, and I believe other travelers will feel the same.

2. Why did you decide to create a web resource with information about Santa Barbara destinations?

I wanted all travelers to feel a sense of connection with the city. They may read the site I created to learn about the city, and I believe they will feel something about the city as they browse. They will learn how the city will serve them, and they may begin making an itinerary that will take them across the city. I want everyone visiting to have the same adventure I did.

3. When you only have time for a short travel getaway (say, three nights maximum), what do you like to do?

I prefer coming to the city to see the beach, and I plan my trips around the beach. I enjoy sitting on the beach, and I will make my way from the beach to other parts of the city during my trip. I will find my favorite lunch spot, and I plan a lovely place for dinner. I will shop downtown, and I quite enjoy coming down to the pier for an evening of fun.

4. From your own travel experience, do you have any favorite tips you'd like to share?

I ask all my travel readers to bring plenty of cash on their trips. Santa Barbara is a lovely beach community with many street vendors who take cash, and you will find a number of attractions that require cash. You may tip your valet or jump on the shuttle with a bit of cash in your pocket. You must ensure you are using your cash wisely, but you must have it in your pocket.

I ask everyone to try local food. There are many beautiful restaurants in the city that you will prefer, and you will find places that are run by up-and-coming chefs. They are making news in the food world, and you may find yourself in a place that has been featured on TV in the past. You may find it interesting to visit food carts, and you will enjoy local joints that serve specialty drinks.

The final step in any trip is choosing a local hotel that plants you in the heart of the city. Traveling to chain hotels is not as much fun as being among the locals, and you will have a nice time in a place that serves breakfast, puts out dessert wine at night, and does not allow you out the door without a friendly goodbye.

5. What, in your opinion, takes a restaurant or hotel or other spot out of the ordinary and makes it a place you want to return to again and again?

The service is the most important thing in any establishment. The personal service I receive on trips will lead me to return. I want to meet the nice people I saw the first time, and I want to send more people to visit. I am in love with certain places where I know the staff, and they call me by name. They got me with their service, and it is the same on every return trip to Santa Barbara.

Thanks, Ian!

Meet Nestor Eguez, Author and Teacher

Nestor Eguez is a technology teacher who immigrated with his family from Uruguay, South America to California twenty years ago in search of a better life. Since then, he has been teaching at adult and vocational schools. He had always had an interest in writing, and one day while helping his children with a school project, he experienced the moment that this story was born.

Nestor is the author of a novel called Kalima: The Secret of the Jungle. He is at work on the second book in this series and hopes to release it in the fall of this year.

1. How did you come up with the idea for Kalima?

Ten years ago, my kids wanted to do a puppet play as a school project. After they tried a couple of options, with no good results, I decided to help them with an original story. Two days after that, one morning on my way to work, the story came to me. That simple.

2. Why did you choose a zebra as your main character?

A lot of people asked me the same question, also if Kalima could be a different jungle animal. Well, a zebra was the first that came to my mind. After a little research, I found out that they are smart and strong animals, perfect for the kind of mission Kalima will have to accomplish.

3. As someone who is busy raising a family and also working as a teacher, when do you find time to write?

Honestly, it is very hard, especially because when you have a free time to do it, usually your inspiration Muse is busy.

4. When you were growing up in Uruguay, who were some writers whose work influenced you?

Definitely there were a lot of books that impacted me, especially in high school, but if I have to mention one, definitely was The Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes.

5. What is your advice to other writers who are working on writing and publishing their first novel?

Well, I'm going to pass along a couple of good suggestions that a wise author told me a long time ago.

a) A story always has room for improvements, but at some point you have to finish it, and move on.

b) You have to be prepared to deal with rejection. Writing a good story is the easiest part of publishing a book.

Thanks, Nestor!

Interior Design Ideas from Barbara's Design Solutions

If you're looking to bring some creativity into the spaces where you live and work, check out the interior design products for home, office, dorm, and more created by Barbara's Design Solutions.

Barb created her line of affordable artisan bathroom decor products with the idea that people should be able to take the guess work out of decorating their bathrooms and just focus on the paint. Her bathroom decor ideas include shower curtains, bath mats, wall art, soap and toothbrush dispensers, bathroom scales, and wall clocks.

Over time, Barb has created a line of Eco Friendly Aluminum Triptych Wall Art, with a variety of imagery and colors to suit many tastes. She has also designed monogrammed bath sets and coordinated black and white accessories for a classic, yet modern look. Her shop offers a unique and diverse collection of products.

By the way, if you like monogrammed products, Barb also makes monogrammed car floor mats upon request. In fact, she does a lot of products on request, so if you have an idea for art or accessories that you'd like to buy, just let her know, as she is glad to work with you on custom orders.

Learn more about Barb's products on YouTube, starting with the video below.

If you like her work, please subscribe to her channel and tell a friend.

Meet Tracey Pettis, Fantasy Portrait Photographer

Selfies and snapshots can’t capture the inner you.
 But your Fantasy Portrait can.

Tracey Pettis will help you step out of your daily life and into your authentic self by taking a fresh look at the inner you from a completely new perspective.

Every human being wants to be seen, wants to be loved, wants to be understood. Through Fantasy Portraits, you can uncover and experience your special beauty, creativity, and gifts. Learn more by visiting FantasyPortraits.co.

1. What gave you the idea to create Fantasy Portraits?

I have been working in advertising for the past 20 years as a creative/art director. But I felt empty. I realized it was time to leave the world of advertising, feeling that companies were placing more importance on data, templates, and stock photography over the kind of creativity I was interested in.

I have always known I wanted to get back to one of my first loves, photography. But I wanted this version to be more than just creating pretty pictures. I wanted to bring the viewer into the process. I wanted to make the process more experience driven. Thus, Fantasy Portraits was born.

2. What's your process like in determining what an individual's Fantasy Portrait should look like?

We start by getting to know you through a discovery session. You share what you're comfortable sharing: your dreams, desires, hopes, aspirations. The object is for you to let go and explore.

Through this process, a concept will gel. Together, we'll fine-tune it, getting more excited about the portrait as we go.



3. Do you think the #nofilter Instagram selfie and other phone photography has changed how we define portraiture?

I think it's added to our choices immensely! We are changing all the time. Having that instant access to capture ourselves while immersed in an experience is a great advantage. And that's why I knew that Fantasy Portraits had to be something different than "just a portrait." It had to be an experience. As we say, "Selfies and snapshots can't capture the inner you. But your Fantasy Portrait can."


4. How can photos make positive changes in our lives?

So many ways! Our mission at Fantasy Portraits is to help women go deeper and learn how to connect with their inner beauty and deeper soul. Through getting to know and understand your spiritual self, your self-esteem and self-love increases.

A photographic image is a preservation tool. Your Fantasy Portrait becomes part of who you are at this stage of your life's journey.



5. What else would you like readers to know about you and your work as a photographer?

I think if you look at some of the Fantasy Portraits we've created, you'll see the attention to detail that you won't see in some of the other "fantasy" work out there. We put a lot of thought and heart into making each image special and unique, and not what you would expect.

If you'd like to explore creating your Fantasy Portrait, send an email to tracey@fantasyportraits.co.

Thanks, Tracey!

Meet Troy Conrad, Filmmaker and Photographer

Troy Conrad is an award-winning filmmaker and the creator/co-producer of improvised stand-up show Set List: Stand-Up Without A Net. He has photographed comedy in seven countries, and his images for the upcoming Comedy Central series Roast Battle have additionally been published in Playboy.

Samples from the series can be found via the Instagram hashtag #hallseries and at humansofcomedy.com.

A photo posted by Troy Conrad (@troyconrads) on May 6, 2016 at 8:51am PDT

1. How did you come up with the idea for the Hall Series?

Last August at The Comedy Store in Hollywood, I took a picture with a fisheye lens of the all the headshots on the wall, and something about it looked very different... it felt like I was surrounded by these pictures on the wall. A couple weeks later, Brian Moses was walking through the hallway and I took his picture, and it looked really cool. Then I wanted to see what it looked like as a portrait. Joey Diaz was the first person I asked to stand in the hallway and pose. I loved how he looked. To me, it felt like the pictures of the comics surrounding him were giving him the nod, pushing him forward. I'm very honored that The Comedy Store liked these shots enough to make them a part of the club. Starting on May 10th, they will be on permanent display in the entrance to the Main Room.

2. What sets the photos in this series apart from other portraits?

The thing that gives these pictures a different feel is the imagery surrounding each comic in the shot. There are vintage headshots on the walls of legendary comics--some of those photos go back as far as 30 or 40 years. There is a feeling of reverence being in that hallway, and these portraits seem to capture that feeling of reverence as if the viewer is there.

3. How many photos have you taken for the Hall Series so far, and what are the plans for expanding on the series over time?

I’ve taken over 80 photos of Paid Regular performers at the Comedy Store, and the collection is growing all the time.

4. What other projects have you done involving filming and/or photographing comics and comedy?

I started as a filmmaker, and directed a film called Runyon: Just Above Sunset starring Eddie Pepitone which won awards at the two festivals it was submitted to. I created and co-produce the improvised stand-up show, Set List: Stand-Up Without A Net. With the show, Paul Provenza and I have traveled the world, and I've photographed the show as well as other shows in seven countries. I've also done a lot of photos of comics in New York and Los Angeles. When I saw Roast Battle at the Comedy Store, I was hooked from the beginning. I knew someone needed to be capturing stills for that show, which is unparalleled worldwide for its high level action. I'm there for that show every Tuesday night.

A photo posted by Troy Conrad (@troyconrads) on Apr 29, 2016 at 4:34pm PDT

5. What makes The Comedy Store a vital and interesting venue after 40+ years?

The Comedy Store is vital because of its integrity. There are three rooms that are bustling every night. It's run incredibly well right now. It's a place that is welcoming to comics, and very hard to get into as a Paid Regular performer. But everyone wants to be there. There is so much personality there that makes it interesting. Roast Battle is so unique. Ari Shaffir's "This is Not Happening" is still running there. Joe Rogan is there all the time. Chris Rock came in to practice for the Oscars. Dave Chappelle pops in, and Louis CK drops in. Last night John Bishop just came in from the UK and did his first show in the US in the Main Room. I love watching Joey Diaz. He's one of the real humans of comedy. He's so unfiltered and raw, and is pure joy to watch. He's raised the bar for so many comics there.

The Paid Regular Hall Series Exhibit debuts at The Comedy Store on Tuesday, May 10th 2016 from 8 p.m. until 10 p.m. and will be on permanent display thereafter. More info at www.thecomedystore.com

Thanks, Troy!

Introducing Health Is Wealth Designer Note Cards

Are you looking for a unique gift item for a health-conscious friend or family member? Or maybe you'd like to treat yourself to a little something to help yourself stay motivated when it comes to maintaining healthy habits? You might enjoy the Health Is Wealth collection of designer note cards from Barbara's Design Solutions on Etsy.

These note cards are scented with a variety of fragrances that evoke the natural scents of fruits. They are designed to be beautiful to the eye and pleasing to the nose. The idea of the Health Is Wealth collection is to share and enjoy cards that give a reminder of healthy eating.

Personally I like to keep blank greeting cards on hand to send for many occasions--sometimes it's nice to send a card just as an everyday way to say hello. When so many of our communications are online, it's a pleasant surprise to receive a card in the mail. The idea of scented cards reminds me of how I used to make scented sachets with my mom to give to friends as little gifts.

Along with the Health Is Wealth cards, Barb also offers other scented card collections, including the Spa Day cards for when you want to send a relaxing message to a friend, the Coffee Lovers collection of coffee-themed cards for many occasions (from birthdays to thank-yous), and the Cupcake Lovers collection.

Barb is always adding new and unique items to her shop. Learn more by reading her profile on Etsy.com.

Introducing Eco Friendly Wall Art by Barb

Not long ago, I posted about the coffee-themed art and gifts created by Barbara Miller, an artist who has an Etsy shop called Barbara's Design Solutions. I wanted to do a followup post to share more information about her original line of eco friendly metal wall art.

Barb's work emphasizes the triptych format, which allows you to get a large piece that is made up of three sections. It is a really cool looking way to display art and goes nicely in offices, waiting rooms, and homes, too. Basically if you want something like a mural or panel for a large wall, these pieces are great. You can purchase smaller format pieces as well. Barb is happy to work with clients and create made to order sizes and designs.

Her subject matter often focuses on nature and landscape, but she does abstract and still life pieces, too. When I asked her about her work, she said, "My interest in triptych art began a few years back. My artworks are inspired by nature's vast array of colors, textures, shapes, and forms."

Her eco friendly wall art is made from aluminum. She also offers pieces that are adhesive polyester fabric art that will stick to most any surface and can be easily removed without leaving sticky residue behind. Check out the art/home/office section of Barb's Etsy shop for more details.

One other way that Barb shares her art is through the form of fashion by creating wearable art, so if you're interested in unique t-shirts and other items, visit the fashion and accessories section of her Etsy shop.

I asked her about the different formats she creates in, and she said that she enjoys "experimenting with many media and styles--metal, glass, wood, and ceramics--and [her] love for fashion."

Barb works out of her studio/home in California. She said, "My art is an ongoing creative process." I think that by following her Etsy shop, we can all enjoy watching her work continue to evolve and expand into new formats and creative subject areas.

Introducing Stephanie Hopkins' Photography Site

When it comes to an artist's website, I really like learning someone's story: why do they create, how did they get interested in creating in the first place, what keeps them motivated, and so on.

Stephanie Hopkins is a professional photographer based in California's North Bay area who specializes in portraits using natural light. I like her website because she gives you an insight into her life as an artist and why she creates--plus, she gives you an excellent idea of what it would be like to work with her.

On the front page of Stephanie's site, she currently has a video that gives you an inside peek at what it's like to have a senior picture photo session with Stephanie. Clever idea indeed.

Her site also has a blog where you can see a lot of samples of her recent work. This is also fun for people she's photographed as it gives them a way to share a preview of their pictures and also to give family and friends an idea of how they enjoyed their photo session.

In addition to senior photos, Stephanie takes wedding photos, family photos, and more. Do you need headshots for your acting portfolio, a book jacket, or to post on the website for your business? Stephanie's website gives me the impression that she is a warm and engaging person to work with and that she can draw out your true personality and show it in a photo.

You can also follow Stephanie's photography page on Facebook.

Meet Mayer Dahan of Prime Five Homes and Dahan Properties

Young entrepreneur Mayer Dahan is CEO of Prime Five Homes and Dahan Properties, full service real estate development companies that specialize in building modern, sustainable homes in Los Angeles. He is also the founder of The Dream Builders Project, an action based charity. The DBP hosts charitable events to fund and raise awareness for several of Los Angeles' key social issues, including child abuse and neglect, education, homelessness, and severe illness and disease.

1. How did you first become interested in sustainable building practices?

I first became interested in sustainable building practices and building eco-friendly, modern homes when I started thinking about wanting a home of my own. When you are buying a home, you want quality materials, sturdy infrastructure, and reliable and sustainable design. I realized how much LA is lacking this type of housing and decided to make it my mission to provide and educate people about the importance of building this way. At Prime Five Homes, we pride ourselves on utilizing only sustainable construction, solar energy, eco-friendly materials, and smart home technology. As the green building code becomes stricter and more apparent in the residential market, we strive to exceed these standards and make our houses even better and more beautiful.

2. In what ways do you find that being an L.A. native influences your work?

I was born and raised in LA, so this city is my home. Making LA the best that it can be is my passion, and my worldwide travels have taught me that we do live in a great city, but there are things we can improve on, such as housing and sustainability. Seeing and exploring various architectural innovations and design styles around the world is what inspires me to continue building modern homes and educating Angelinos on the future of building and housing.

3. When it comes to the homes you've built through Prime Five Homes, do you have any favorites overall?

432 S. Citrus is most definitely my favorite so far. Not only is the look of home modern, beautiful, and distinct, but the design and architecture is what I am incredibly proud of. The open floor plan completely blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor environments, establishing a style of living that some can only dream of.

Although it was one of our more challenging builds because we wanted to create an aesthetic that would stand out from the competition while still maintaining a modern and eco-friendly design, the final product was well worth the challenge. The big, luxurious windows allow so much natural light to filter into the home's interior and the refurbished wood that adorns the ceiling of the upstairs balcony, as well as the kitchen cabinetry is are why I love 432 S. Citrus so much.

A current project that we are working on right now on, N. Curson Ave, will be incomparable to anything I've ever done before. Stay tuned! It will be well worth it!

4. What inspired you to start The Dream Builders Project?

After the death of a close friend from unfortunate circumstances in 2013, I realized how important it is to offer a helping hand to those in need. I didn't just want to help on a small scale. In her name, I wanted to make a real impact on our community, and for this reason, I founded The DBP. Replicating Prime Five Homes' philosophy of making LA a better place, the goal of The DBP is to give back to the community with a focus on homelessness, child abuse and neglect, education, and human trafficking. In its history, The DBP has hosted over 12 Charity Flash Mobs, two Charity Galas, and one orphanage remodeling, and supplied more than 600 school children with school supplies.

5. For people who are reading this and nurturing their own entrepreneurial dream, what's your advice for getting started--or taking their dream to the next level?

You don't need to know everything in order to get started: you just need a good idea, passion, and a whole lot of drive! And don't be afraid to take risks. Just believe in yourself and dream big!

Thanks, Mayer!

Meet Roy Albert Andrade, Author

Roy Albert Andrade was born in Pacoima, California and at 12 years old was persuaded by gang members to join them for his own safety. Their modus operandi was to promise him protection from bullies and rival gangs. Having had no family structure of his own, Roy joined a group that was one of many in a city torn by dozens of Latino gangs or "families" as they called themselves. First named by gang members as "Bandit," he later carried a 22-caliber pistol and was given the moniker "Killer."

Having been incarcerated but never convicted of any crime, Roy decided to use his time in prison to interview others about crimes they had committed. This developed into his passion for life and a passion for writing. Well-read and a graduate of the University of Phoenix in Arizona, he decided to write his first novel based upon those interviews.

Roy has since written and published Cultivating the DNA of Crime in May 2014 and Virula: Renaissance Outlaw in March 2015. He has also established his own companies, K1ller, Inc., K1ller Publishing Co, and The K1ller Foundation to steer the youth of America away from lives of crime. Learn more about Roy Albert Andrade and his books at www.k1ller.com and on Facebook.

1. Have you always been interested in writing, or was it something you took up later on in your life?

No. When I was younger I wanted to be a drug lord and distribute drugs worldwide. I began selling marijuana in junior high and earned nearly $2,000 per week with little effort. I began hiring people and expanded my operation outside Los Angeles County. In high school, I began selling cocaine and methamphetamine to earn additional income. Eventually, I was sentenced to prison, and filed an appeal in the California Supreme Court. A year and a half passed by before I realized the value of an education. I became a student of University of Phoenix, and graduated with an Associate of Arts degree in 2011. Around that time, I began writing Cultivating the DNA of Crime. I hooked up with George Pryce, Death Row Records' former publicist, and the rest is history!

2. What got you started with interviewing prisoners about their crimes?

While serving time at Salinas Valley State prison in Central California, I enrolled in academic courses, self-help groups, and work programs. I met a number of interesting people, and exchanged information regarding gang affiliation. So, when I write, I integrate their ideas and experiences with my own to form what I call "a work of art."

3. How does your life experience as well as your interviews influence you as a writer?

My life has always encompassed four things: money, sex, drugs, and violence. I write what I see, hear, touch, taste, and know. I have a background unlike any other. There's only two people I can name that have a similar background and have published more than one book: Rene Enriquez and Donald Garcia (R.I.P). So, what I write is authentic, and most importantly, unique.

4. What do you like about the novel as a form, rather than short stories, say, or nonfiction?

I like to get to the point! I've read numerous books, some the size of dictionaries, others the size of employee handbooks, and what I learned is this: get to the [expletive] point already! I prefer writing short stories, because I can get to the point, easier, faster, and efficiently, and make the reader turn the next page.

5. What would you most like readers to know about Cultivating the DNA of Crime?

If I can do it, then anyone can do it. Not all of us have the same goals, but that doesn't mean we can't learn from one another and achieve what our hearts desire. I'm a living testimony that if people work hard enough to achieve a particular goal, and make reasonable deadlines, then they can achieve just about anything. My goal was to write and publish Cultivating the DNA of Crime. I recently published Virula: Renaissance Outlaw, and am currently working on a third project alongside George Pryce.

Thanks, Roy!

Meet Megan Meyers, Owner and Director of Expressions Dance Studio

Megan Meyers is a dancer who won national awards with high school team, the Napa High Spiritleaders. In 2002, Megan was crowned Miss Napa County and competed at the state level of the Miss America pageant. She graduated from the UC Berkeley with a Business degree in 2004, and was a cheerleader for the Oakland Raiders' Raiderettes for several years, even representing the Raiderettes at the Pro Bowl in 2007. Today, Megan is the owner and director of Napa's Expressions Dance Studio, which offers dance classes for girls ranging in age from preschool to high school.

1. How did your dance experience and your business experience come together in the founding of Expressions Dance Studio?

I've always had the entrepreneurial spirit. Even as a little girl, I would set up little businesses to provide services for family and friends. Everything from lemonade stands to car washing, house cleaning, and shoe shining services. I fell in love with dancing in high school as a Napa High Spiritleader. The two passions were joined when I was asked to teach dance for an afterschool program. That class was taught on a volunteer basis, but incidentally a local dance school closed down at the same time, and I was asked to start a couple of additional classes for pay. That provided me with my first dozen students and Expressions Dance Studio was born! That was 13 years ago, and it's been an amazing journey ever since.

2. What are some of the benefits of dance class for your students?

There are so many benefits to dance lessons, but the biggest benefit is that dance lessons are such a wonderful way to build up self-esteem and confidence in girls. Dance is taught as a group class, but development and progress of each dancer month by month, year by year is a very personal journey. Nothing builds confidence better than individual progress, growth, and achievement, no matter how big or small. My hope is that all of our students can benefit from dance lessons like I did. I went from being a painfully shy child to a fearless young adult, and I attribute most of that change to my dance lessons. The skills and values I developed in dance class such as persistence, having a positive attitude, learning how to set and reach goals, learning to work with others, and the ability to perform in front of an audience--it all helped me develop self-confidence, and of course that translated into success in all other areas of my life.

3. Would you tell us about what inspired you to develop--and expand--your Princess Ballerina Program?

I was inspired to create a fun and imaginative program for preschoolers. Often times, preschool dance programs are sort of an afterthought for many dance studios, so I saw a need for a quality program that specifically catered to this age group. My full vision for the Princess Ballerina program is pretty exciting. I'm currently developing a book series that will allow us to introduce story, characters, themes, props, and magical adventures into our Princess Ballerina classes. It's been a big project, but I'm very excited to start revealing all of the new themes and stories that will be coming fall 2015. There really is nothing like it currently in the industry. 

4. When starting a dance studio, what made you decide to focus on dance classes for kids?

I personally know the power that dance lessons can have on a young girl. I benefited in high school, but my goal for developing programs for children is to hopefully reach girls from a younger age so they can reap the benefits as early as possible. You're never too young to feel confident in your own abilities!

5. What are some of your favorite things about your job?

Well come on, I mean who wouldn't love to work in a world filled with sparkly costumes, glitter, music, and dancing? I think I was born to own a dance studio. I love everything about it, from the choreographing or picking music and costumes to the behind the scenes planning, staff training, and numbers crunching. I love it all!

Thanks, Megan!

Meet X-Change, DJ and Producer

X-Change is an electro and progressive house music DJ and producer residing in Los Angeles. A University of Michigan alumni, he has a strong background and knowledge of acoustics and engineering. While fine tuning his original singles, he also releases custom edits and mash-ups, and is always on the lookout for talented people to collaborate and work with. X-Change brings a new sound to the world of dance music with original tracks coming out in 2015.

Learn more about his work on his website, SoundCloud, Facebook, and Twitter.

1. How did you first get started working as a DJ?

I actually started DJing when I was a college student at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor. I was also interested in music, and a few honor societies wanted me to DJ their banquets, so I sort of stumbled into it and from there wanted to learn everything there was to know about DJing.

2. When you do a custom edit of a song, how do you decide what to emphasize from the original work?

Usually when doing an edit, I'm working on my mixshow X-Change Theory Radio, and I hear a track that I love but want to play in a different way in my set either due to a cool vocal or synth breakdown or drop section. Then I structure my edit for my DJing style so that my favorite part of the original is highlighted.

3. Would you tell us a little bit about your experience collaborating with Jessica Louise?

Jessica Louise is an amazing singer! She has been a pleasure to work with on "Stronger." I wrote the song with Jeff Zacharski and Hannah Taylor a while ago, and we looked for months for a female singer that would fit the track perfectly. Then when we heard Jessica's voice, we knew she had to be on it! We are actually following the track up with an acoustic version stripping the track back to just her vocals and piano. I'm super excited for everyone to hear that!

4. What are some of the other original tracks you've been working on--and what are you planning to release in 2015?

It's been a busy 2015 so far. I've been working on a lot of different tracks and concepts in the studio and have a bunch of releases planned. I have an all-instrumental electro house track called "Kandiland" coming out soon as well as more female vocal based progressive house tracks titled "Amnesia" and "Weight Of Your Love" that are almost finished as well. On top of that I'm releasing a lot of my private edits and working on some remixes for other artists.

5. For you personally as a listener, what separates great dance music from good dance music?

For me, my favorite tracks have killer melodies that you just can't stop humming. I also love a great vocal over the track. There is just something so cool about a song that gives you chills when you listen to the vocal riding over the chord progression and it all crescendos up into this massive drop that makes you want to jump up and down wherever you are!

Thanks, X-Change!

Introducing Cracking Your Creativity Code, A Documentary Film

Below is the press release for a new documentary, Cracking Your Creativity Code.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: CRYSTAL M. LITZ, 213-321-2446

Transformative New Documentary Seeks to Unlock Your Creative Powers

Cracking Your Creativity Code Offers Powerful and Inspiring Journey Into Creativity

Santa Monica -- A new documentary film seeks to help each person tap into their limitless creative potential. Cracking Your Creativity Code, a transformative new film, has just been released on DVD, for streaming online and for private screenings.

Following in the conscious cinema mode of The Secret or What the Bleep Do We Know?!, Cracking Your Creativity Code takes you on a guided journey designed to awaken your full creative potential. Accompanying you on the journey--leading experts in the fields of creativity, neuroscience, psychology, meditation, and peak performance. The film also offers a companion handbook with exercises for use in deepening your creative powers and in conjunction with creativity workshops.

"Watch it once and become inspired… Watch it twice and become inspiring." --Michael Bernard Beckwith, Spiritual Visionary and bestselling author

The release of Cracking Your Creativity Code also coincides with World Creativity and Innovation Week (http://wciw.org/) which is April 15 through April 21.

Some highlights of Cracking Your Creativity Code include:

CREATIVITY AS A LIFESTYLE
The film examines creativity from four perspectives: the rational, emotional, intuitive, and spiritual realms. Prominent creativity experts give viewers a veritable "Swiss army knife" to cracking your own personal creativity code, allowing a true connection with your most creative self.

CREATIVITY AS AN EDUCATIONAL TOOL
Rote memorization of facts and dates doesn't inspire a lifelong commitment to learning. What if we could find a new way of not only teaching, but learning in an intuitive and creative fashion?

CREATIVITY FOR BUSINESS CHALLENGES
Sometimes even the most productive teams or employees get "blocked." Cracking Your Creativity Code and the CYCC companion handbook include exercises that are perfect for team building and brainstorming.

CREATIVITY FOR ARTISTS
The film goes behind-the-scenes into the studios of artists working in various mediums as we learn about their own personal creative process--what is it that inspires them to create, and what keeps them motivated to see a project through to fruition?

CREATIVITY AS A SPIRITUAL/HEALING INSTRUMENT
Cracking Your Creativity Code explores the use of traditional psychotherapy with the integration of mindfulness and meditation to assist viewers achieve mental and emotional healing and open the path for higher creativity.

Cracking Your Creativity Code is directed by Santa Monica filmmaker Jim Wooden. The 90-minute film was inspired by Wooden's concern for creativity and art in today's culture. A companion handbook is available to assist viewers on their creative journey.

For more information about Cracking Your Creativity Code or to schedule a screening, visit www.crackingyourcreativitycode.com.

See the trailer below:

Cracking Your Creativity Code Official Trailer from Jim Wooden on Vimeo.

Meet Adam Schneider, Certified Sommelier and CEO of Say It On Wine

Adam Schneider is a Certified Sommelier living and working in the heart of Napa Valley. His business, Say It On Wine, offers a unique, personalized, affordable gift for any occasion: any message or image engraved on any wine bottle or glass. Check out the ideas for holiday gifts and other special occasions.

1. How did you come up with the idea for Say It On Wine?

Everyone in Napa walks around with bottles of wine, purchased from cherished wineries, but unless they get shipped home, empty memories are tossed in the recycle bin. Taking note from something I learned working the NY wine market, I saw a need across Napa that was not being addressed. And Say It On Wine was born.

2. How does your engraving process work?

We use a laser engraving system, which allows us to engrave quickly and for a reasonable price. It also give us the ability to add images or logos along with any amount of text that can comfortably fit on the bottle.

3. What is the process for someone who wants to create a one of a kind engraving, with their own text and image?

We suggest customers contact us directly at info@sayitonwine com. Once we get an idea of what a customer is looking for, we will work with them to get the design just right. When they are 100% satisfied, we will charge them and get started right away on their order. Orders are generally delivered or shipped the same day the order is placed.

4. In addition to wine bottles, are there other items you engrave?

While we mainly work on 750ml wine bottles or smaller, we also work on and sell a variety of wine, beer, and specialty glassware. We have also engraved candles, vases, and decanters.

5. What is your advice to other entrepreneurs who are interested in building a business related to the wine industry?

There are a lot of different aspects to the wine business, so everyone from dreamers to investors can find something that they enjoy and are good at. I started in the wine business 15 years ago and had the chance to experience different aspects before deciding on what I wanted to do. Others may not have that liberty, but there are many options.

Thanks, Adam!

Meet Tony Francis of Sweet Eve

Initially formed in 2008, Sweet Eve are Hollywood hard rockers with national touring experience under their studded belts. The band has a guitar heavy slightly experimental alt-rock sound that's just on the pop side of being all-out metal. Flying V-wielding front man Tony Francis has a straight-across-the-plate rock voice and belts out the songs while Andre Silva intertwines hooky lead sequences over the bombastic rhythms of drummer Alex Fox and bass player Leo Roriz. Sweet Eve has recently finished recording their debut album and it will be available soon. In the meantime check out the live footage of the band performing "Kings and Queens" at the legendary Whiskey A Go-Go in Hollywood.

Check out Sweet Eve on ReverbNation. Our interview below is with Tony Francis.

1. What inspired the formation of your band in 2008?

My last band broke up when we moved to California and I wasn't finished making music.

2. How has your sound evolved during the process of working together for several years now?

The longer you are working and writing, the more techniques and styles you learn which aids the writing process.

3. Do you mostly do shows in the greater Los Angeles area, or do you tour elsewhere as well?

We're on tour now. Texas this weekend and the rest of America in the next few.

4. What's your songwriting process like?

It's not locked down to anything. Songs just pop into my head. It could be a riff or a lyric.

5. If you could tell our readers anything about Sweet Eve, what would you want them to know?

We're really grateful for our fans. You guys keep us going even when it feels like the world is trying to stop us.

Thanks, Tony!

Introducing dmi Networking, Specialists in IT for Dental Practices

As someone who follows small businesses and entrepreneurs, I can appreciate the value of a company that is filling a specific niche. Based in California in the North Bay Area, dmi Networking is helping dentists by providing information technology solutions and support. The people who started the company have 30+ years of experience in helping local business owners, and the staff are skilled in helping end users manage the necessary IT processes involved in keeping an office running smoothly.

Depending on the level of in-house IT expertise within a particular office, you can outsource some of all of your IT needs to dmi Networking. They offer a variety of IT services for dental practices such as secure encryption for email and data, network security, HIPAA compliance, and more. You can find help with getting your files online and knowing those files are stored safely on your own network and/or using cloud storage. You can even get help in making sure you have the best computers and other equipment set up in your office to meet your needs.

For Bay Area dental IT services, check out dmi Networking. I'm sure everyone has seen news stories about data breaches in different business environments, and medical and dental offices can be a target for data thieves. In other words, it's worth it to consult with professionals and outsource some of your information technology needs to protect your business and your patients.

Meet Ken Williams, Author

Ken Williams is a Santa Barbara author who has written books about poverty, homelessness, veterans, and other topics. He writes in many genres, and his latest work is a novel called Fractured Angel, available from Sakura Publishing; the book's release date is July 7, 2014, and it is currently available for pre-order. Ken is a humanitarian who has spent many years working with homeless people in Santa Barbara.

1. As someone who writes fiction, poetry, screenplays, and nonfiction, how do you decide which genre is the best for expressing what you want to write about a particular idea or topic?

I usually write my newest idea as a screenplay first. I find it helps me discipline myself, forcing me to focus on dialogue and then the setting and then the interaction of the two. Screenplay formatting helps me to relate to each character more uniquely. Why would a person like this character be in such a place? Why do they use a particular dialect? What does the dialogue show about one's education, as well as the parts of the country they were raised in and/or parts of the world? All my writings include characters with mental health issues, so I use dialogue to reflect this. Screenplays take the place of an outline for me. However, I have consciously not used the screenplay format in two of my ten novels. For these two books I also stayed away from using an outline. I wanted the stories to develop organically--letting them come alive and follow their own leads and internal logic. I have found both ways useful at different times.

In all endeavors I strive to break down barriers to reach people who may not agree with me on some highly emotional issues such as homelessness and mental illness. I strongly believe that fiction can tell the emotional truth, which too often eludes non-fiction. Also, people are more willing to read fiction with a more open mind than non-fiction. I try not to become locked into only one approach for writing.

Poetry comes to me on its own. It's an emotional response to something that I read, something I have experienced. Poetry flows naturally. It can't be forced. I have gotten up in the middle of the night to scribe a rough version of a poem. My non-fiction articles usually come to me the same way.

2. In crafting your books, what do you see as the relationship between creative license and social responsibility?

Creative license is not a quick gimmick to evade reality. If one wishes to reach people and influence the times we live in, one must adhere to the truth. Creative license, if used properly, allows a writer to make real a situation in such a way that the reader can relate to it even if they have never experienced it. All writing is an attempt to connect with a reader who has given up the most precious item they possess--free time. In exchange, the writer who respects our social responsibility to something or someone beyond himself or herself needs to use creative imagination to bring a fictional world into the real world. To reflect an emotional truth by using our fictional world that we have created.

3. Would you tell us a little bit about Fractured Angel and what inspired you to write it?

Fractured Angel is the story of a professional woman who comes to Santa Barbara in a desperate search for her fifteen year old daughter, who having suffered her first psychotic break is chased to the streets of Santa Barbara by her wounded mind. In the process, the mother is forced to confront the alien world of the homeless in one of the wealthiest cities in the world. Her journey into this new world exposes the reader to the reality of homelessness in modern day America.

During my years as a social worker for the homeless, some of the most heart-rending experiences were parents who were directed to me to help and find a mentally ill runaway teen or young adult. Faded pictures, some cut in half to protect the identity of family members were all they had to give me to help me search for their loved ones. It didn't matter if they were poor or rich. They all had one thing in common: the parental heartbreak of losing a loved child first to mental illness and then to the streets.

At one time I was told of a homeless woman living in a storm drain. I found that hard to believe since this particular drain was only two and a half feet tall. Parking down the street from the storm drain, I waited and watched. Within minutes the woman in question crawled out. All I could think of was her sleeping in a foul and wretched crawl space amongst rats and flotsam in one of the wealthiest cities in the world. I have lost count of how many of my clients died from starvation and suicides. The incident with the two drug dealers happened. And a hooker did in fact come to my rescue!

Bad life experiences happen to some really good people and profoundly wounded people struggling for existence on the streets, which motivates me to try and help the country see and embrace the new lepers of our times. This tragedy has gone on for too long.

4. What do you find most challenging and what do you find most rewarding about your work with homeless people in Santa Barbara?

The homeless have their own community that is not very welcoming to outsiders. For them to have trusted me, invited me into hidden campsites, and helped me time after time was both humbling and honoring. The mental ill homeless have a grace all their own. Egos are refreshingly lacking with them and a profound spirituality embraces many.

5. When people say to you that they want to help the homeless, what do you reply in the way of concrete suggestions?

Ironically, the most concrete help is a non-material thing. A homeless woman who was a client of mine and would cycle in and out of schizophrenic breaks told me once that how I helped her the most was when she was in her delusional episodes and I would simply smile at her. She told me even though she would be highly delusional and unable to talk, it always brought her comfort and an inner smile. She told me how people would be frightened of her and pretend not to see her. This estrangement from other people was very difficult for her to endure.

A smile costs nothing. A friendly shake of the head, a kind greeting means more than most of us will ever imagine to someone battling mental illness and aloneness. It is tragic, but the absence of humanity towards the mentally ill homeless is the cruelest wound and seemingly the hardest thing for us to give.

Thanks, Ken!

Introducing Swiss Cleaning Services in Los Angeles

Have you made a new year's resolution related to cleaning your home or office? For maintaining a clean home or work space, sometimes it helps to have professional assistance. Whether you want a regular cleaning service or an occasional helping hand, if you're in the Los Angeles area, Swiss Cleaning Services would like to talk with you about your cleaning needs.

Swiss Cleaning Services offers janitorial Services, cleaning Services, maid Service, office cleaning, and more. Their staff members are background-checked and professionally screened. Everyone at Swiss Cleaning Services follows the motto of, "We clean until you smile."

The company provides specialty cleaning services from construction clean up and document disposal to emergency services and medical waste disposal. They can help with cleaning for a special event. They also do window cleaning and pressure washing.

If green cleaning is important to you, you will find that Swiss Cleaning Services is mindful about the importance of using green cleaning supplies.

For more information and/or to schedule a free estimate, you can contact the company at Swiss Cleaning Services, 7119 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90046, (323)744-7170, http://www.los-angeles-cleaning.com.

Meet Devin Goodsell, Actor

Devin Goodsell was born in Boulder, Colorado and was raised in southern and central California. In the 4th grade he had an assignment to look into three different careers he wanted to do when he grew up. Taking this assignment very seriously he chose: computer programming, acting, and piloting. Giving in to his introverted personality, he pursued the technology route. After high school he attended college where he graduated with a bachelors degree in Computer Science. Devin went off to have a successful career in the technology industry.

For so many people this would have been where their career life continued, but there was something severely lacking for Devin. No matter what he accomplished, he couldn't achieve a sense of fulfillment. In 2009 the catalyst came, and unfortunately he experienced the passing of his mother. Knowing she always wanted him to live his life not on the premise of financial accomplishments but to gain happiness from passion and relationships, he set out to try and discover what this would mean.

Driving down Laurel Canyon Blvd one afternoon in June of 2009 he saw a sign for an acting class. The same fantasies that danced in his head as a kid back in the 4th grade re­emerged, and he realized it was time to push his timid behavior aside and give it a whirl. He called up and booked himself a class. Scared out of his mind he went to class. Not knowing a single thing about acting other than what he saw in movies, he attempted to do his best, which admittedly, he says, was horrible. However a spark ignited in him that he did not understand, nor could he make sense of, and he knew he was on to something.

As years progressed he came to realize that spark ignited a burning blaze of passion that could not be put out and he would do everything he could to continue feeding it. After three years of challenging himself through classes, improv, auditions, performances, and over 30 film projects he now has the confidence to call himself an actor, but knows this is just the first step in the long and exciting journey he has begun.

Devin appears in the forthcoming short film, Locked.

1. How did you get your start as an actor?

It was a bit on the whim and started from an acting class, but I must admit acting was always a desire that terrified me. Being shy and a perfectionist I have no idea honestly how it began other than for a childhood dream, thirst for something that challenges me to the core of my existence, and an undeniable feeling that once I started it was exactly what I was supposed to do. But my start to being an actual actor I'd have to attribute to a play I was in late last year that provided the opportunity to truly dive in and embrace a character much different than myself.

2. Would you tell us little bit about your character in Locked?

The first time I read the script I couldn't help but think, "man, this guys' an a--hole" and laugh at his predicament. But after really starting to see the world from John's perspective, I realized how real he is. John got married young and started to wonder what life would be like if he hadn't. He played off the fantasy and overtime allowed it to be his addiction while still enjoying the comforts of being married. In a sense he was having the best of both worlds. But the arc of the character in the film allowed me to see he was still human, and the guilt he had from his actions has been wearing on him for longer than he realized. Underneath it all John really does have a heart, and I think that's what's surprising to realize.

3. What did you do to prepare for your role?

Like I do with all characters, I sat down and created a list of similarities and differences with John and me. The two big differences were that he's married, and he has cheated on his wife. I've never cheated on anyone--yes, that's the truth to all you single ladies out there, nor have I been married. So I had to pull a girlfriend from my past who I had a long relationship with and imagine what if I married her. That's when I began to make a lot of discoveries. After getting into his mental background I then worked on the actual aspect of the lock. And well I'm not going to get into details but let's just say I now know what its liked to be locked.

4. What are some of the pleasures and challenges you encountered in your role for this film?

Preparing for a character has to always be at the top of the list. It's such a eye-opening experience to learn life from another perspective than your own. Now the most challenging would have to be the nudity, but what was cool about this particular nude situation is the character and my nervousness were in line so there was no need to add in extra depth.

5. Could you tell us a little bit about some of your goals as an actor, and what projects you hope to be working on over the next few years?

At this point, just trying to get those 10,000 hours in! No, but in all honesty my goals have always been in line with digging to further depths with my craft, but lately I've started to become more keen on the business aspect and realize talent can only get you so far, sadly. So I've began taking on producing roles to understand that aspect of movie making, and let me tell you the experiences and lessons are invaluable. But straight to your question, I've been working on a play titled Brilliant Traces that will be going up soon where I play the lead, Henry. Also I'm working with a director I've previously worked with to do a short film on Google glass that will be filming in November. As for the unknown future and my hopes: TV, of course, and features in hopes I can get a few lines in with the greats.

Thanks, Devin!