Pam Vetter
meets with families, researches life stories, writes original tributes and conducts one-of-a-kind farewells. In finding her mission, she believes the funeral belongs to the family.
As a Journalist, Vetter enjoys her work writing feature stories about interesting people who are trying to change the world. She also is committed to sharing progressive views through her article series focused on Performers With Disabilities.
As The Funeral Lady ©, Vetter conducts personal funeral services in the Los Angeles area for celebrities, film crewmembers and professionals.
In early 2005, she earned certification as a Funeral Celebrant through training with the In-Sight Institute at the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. After conducting high-profile funerals, she quickly gained national attention for funeral services that focused on storytelling.
Previously, she worked in the film industry at HBO Pictures, Fox Filmed Entertainment and Fox Broadcasting Company. She started her career in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in TV News at WGAL and Radio News at WLPA/WNCE. While working in radio as a news anchor and reporter, Vetter earned several awards from the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasting for feature stories, live coverage and spot news.
www.TheFuneralLady.com.
Online Memorials.
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Articles by Pam Vetter
November 13, 2011
Ring in the holiday season with A Silver Jubilee Celebration in Lafayette Square, West Adams Heritage Association's (WAHA) annual Holiday Historic Homes Tour and Progressive Dinner – a wonderful, once-a-year opportunity to wine and dine in some of the beautiful residences gracing the elegant streets...
November 03, 2011
If someone has died, we know it isn't fun. But, when a loved one isn't dying or has just died, that is the best time to read the new book "The Party of Your Life." It is a fun read, especially if you're working in the funeral industry or planning your own funeral for down the road.
Why shouldn'...
October 10, 2011
As a society, material things have become so important in our lives. Look at the way you shop and then look at the amount of stuff you've accumulated over the years. We overshop, overbuy and accumulate so much stuff that we really don't need. Much of it sits around and is ignored or piles up.
...
October 06, 2011
(BEVERLY HILLS, CA) - "We will win this battle for inclusion!" Powerful words from Academy Award®-winner Marlee Matlin, as she hosted the 2011 Media Access Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
Recipients of the Media Access Awards were honored for their efforts in promoting an awareness of the ...
October 06, 2011
(BEVERLY HILLS, CA) - "We will win this battle for inclusion!" Powerful words from Academy Award®-winner Marlee Matlin, as she hosted the 2011 Media Access Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
Recipients of the Media Access Awards were honored for their efforts in promoting an awareness of the ...
September 10, 2011
(LOS ANGELES, CA) - The marble angels at Angelus Rosedale Cemetery watch over many of Los Angeles's earliest settlers and later innovators alike, along with politicians, war heroes, more than a few scurrilous entrepreneurs, trendsetters, women's rights advocates, and a long list of famed entertaine...
Everything Seems Possible After Kayaking, Zip Lining, and Hiking 1,208 Steps at Amicalola Waterfalls
July 22, 2011
(ATLANTA, GEORGIA) - It's official. I love the state of Georgia. As humid as the weather gets, as many mosquitos that love to bite, Georgia is still a fabulous state to visit. There's so much to do and many fine restaurants that remind you there's more to life than death.
Taking a break from ...
Everything Seems Possible After Kayaking, Zip Lining, and Hiking 1,208 Steps at Amicalola Waterfalls
July 21, 2011
(ATLANTA, GEORGIA) - It's official. I love the state of Georgia. As humid as the weather gets, as many mosquitos that love to bite, Georgia is still a fabulous state to visit. There's so much to do and many fine restaurants that remind you there's more to life than death.
Taking a break from ...
June 18, 2011
In her new book series "Fire Up!", author Donna Hartley recounts her harrowing survival of a plane crash at Los Angeles International Airport that served as a wake-up call changing her life forever. Hartley, who is a former Miss Hawaii USA and actress, went on to survive stage III melanoma and open-...
June 18, 2011
WOODLAND HILLS, CA - As baby boomers age, their children are being faced with so many difficult decisions about how to care for their parents.
Owner Joel Galston, who shares a history in childcare with his wife, started Valley Home Care Solutions because he saw the need to provide a different kin...
May 16, 2011
(LOS ANGELES, CA) – A century of accomplishments of African Americans who have contributed to Historic West Adams' civic and cultural legacy will be showcased on "West Adams' Golden Legacies: Golden State Mutual Life and Landmarks of African American History," the spring tour presented by West Adam...
April 23, 2011
Every approach to dealing with death is different because it's an individual choice. In today's world, there are a variety of options in funeral service. Knowing your legal rights in making those funeral arrangements or handling those funeral arrangements yourself is vitally important to the proce...
February 17, 2011
(LOS ANGELES, CA) – While the historic and architecturally impressive residences of Historic West Adams are quite well known, fewer people are aware that inside, creativity abounds. Dozens of established and emerging artists work and/or live in West Adams. On Saturday, March 26, the public will be...
February 03, 2011
(North Hollywood, CA) Martial Arts Expert Mike Chaturantabut is launching a far-reaching career as a motivational speaker. And, honestly everything seems possible with this inspirational speaker extraordinaire. His students know him as Mike Chat and it's a name that carries a solid reputation.
...
February 03, 2011
(North Hollywood, CA) Martial Arts Expert Mike Chaturantabut is launching a far-reaching career as a motivational speaker. And, honestly everything seems possible with this inspirational speaker extraordinaire. His students know him as Mike Chat and it's a name that carries a solid reputation.
...
November 03, 2010
"I hope he's watching over us... I hope he's at peace..." Oftentimes, those are the words I hear from families who are dealing with a loved one's death. We want to be comforted in facing a loss, because there are so many questions after someone dies.
What is on the other side? What is in the...
September 23, 2010
Sinatra's music lives on at parties, wedding receptions and celebrations of all kinds. His music even headlines funerals. In fact, Sinatra's original rendition of the song "My Way" remains one of the top tunes played in funeral celebrations. When inspiring, uplifting music is needed, most people ...
September 08, 2010
In a true celebration of his life, a Celebrant funeral service was recently held at Abbott & Hast Mortuary in Silver Lake for 73-year-old Richard Mah, a bartender of the infamous Yee Mee Loo in Chinatown. During his 13 years as a bartender at Yee Mee Loo, Richard became as famous as the bar. Thro...
August 29, 2010
"Get Low" is the best film of the year!
On screen, there seems to be a secret behind every wrinkle seen on the faces of actors Robert Duvall, Bill Murray and Sissy Spacek. Oscar worthy performances all around in this film about Felix Bush, an eccentric character who plans his own funeral party...
August 20, 2010
Tour the Angelus Rosedale Cemetery during the 20th Annual Living History Tour in Los Angeles. The cemetery tour brings famous women from history to life! The tour takes place on Saturday, September 25, 2010. For more information visit http://westadamsheritage.org.
July 09, 2010
It's only a matter of time before an A-list celebrity walks the red carpet and separates from the pack by wearing a beetle gem. Yes, that's right – it's a beetle and a gem.
Lisa Carlson has launched a new venture with http://beetlegems.com.
"Beetle gems are natural beetles that are preserve...
June 08, 2010
If you've never heard an angel sing, you haven't heard the voice of 20-year-old Katie Young.
At the age of 10, she became interested in singing when her mother enrolled her in summer camp for kids.
"I always had a loud voice, my family reminds me of it all the time, and that transferred into ...
May 06, 2010
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA - Educators, parents, and the public are invited to hear about a new grassroots campaign to change the way America conducts its schools at a Change The Schools Launch Party on Sunday, May 16th, 3 p.m. at Bank of Books, 748 E. Main St. in downtown Ventura. "Right now, during the...
April 27, 2010
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA - Three local educators are teaming up to launch a new online network to change the way America conducts its schools with a Change The Schools Launch Party on Sunday, May 16th, 3 p.m. at Bank of Books, 748 E. Main St. in downtown Ventura. Their new network, located at http://cha...
April 10, 2010
This is an editorial about a Life Member of a Surf Life Saving Club in Sydney. Len Brown, who was 84-years-old, was a part of the Surf Life Saving Movement in Australia's early days. He was a real character. In his honor, Civil Celebrant Julie Ferguson led a Scattering of Ashes ceremony. Thank y...
April 07, 2010
Every person in the business of telling life stories should own the documentary "The Lost Son of Havana." While celebrants, personal historians, writers and journalists will definitely connect with this film, baseball fans are already embracing this work of art. It's also a film that fathers and s...
January 22, 2010
CrackerJack, the Quarter Horse of Tennessee, has passed away. He was buried on a hill past his barn in a light rain.CrackerJack was absolutely loved by Anne and Floyd Craig and the entire family. He grew up with them. What follows is a remembrance from Anne Craig, which she sent to family and fri...
December 18, 2009
Songs, music and memories highlighted the annual memorial service and candle lighting at Pierce Brothers Valhalla Memorial Park and Mortuary in North Hollywood.
Sharing true harmonies of the holidays, the Walter Reed Middle School Choir sang several songs including "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear...
December 11, 2009
We've had many readers ask about the funeral service for 7-year-old Evan Newport. Evan's father, Scott Newport, has been kind enough to share his reflections through his writing. We publish Scott's words and writing here with his permission as a way to share Evan's story which has impacted so many...
December 10, 2009
Sometimes you just want to escape real life with a delightful romance. "Three Minutes Before Christmas" by Paige Ryter is exactly what the doctor ordered. Especially since the lead in this novel is the handsome Dr. Colin Taylor.
Anyone who knows anything about me knows that I love stories set in...
December 06, 2009
There is a homeless man who lives in one of the parks near my home. He walks past my house every morning and every evening carrying a blanket wrapped around all of his belongings. He looks like a sad version of Santa, carrying everything he owns in the world. By mid-day, he's walked several miles ...
December 06, 2009
There is a homeless man who lives in one of the parks near my home. He walks past my house every morning and every evening carrying a blanket wrapped around all of his belongings. He looks like a sad version of Santa, carrying everything he owns in the world. By mid-day, he's walked several miles ...
December 02, 2009
TEXAS - Every week there are video biographies about the lives of celebrities shown on television. But, professional video biographies have taken on a whole new level of accessibility for everyday people who want to document their own life stories.
Stefani Twyford, Founder and President of Legac...
November 26, 2009
CALIFORNIA - A novel about school, suicide, transformation, and rescuing the American Dream--Angel Park by author Patricia Kokinos--has been named an award-winning finalist in literary fiction as one of the "Best Books of 2009" by national publishing magazine, USA Book News.
The annual awards r...
November 20, 2009
When you forget you're watching a film because you're so caught up in the characters, you gain a sense of being a part of the neighborhood. In all of the dysfunction as shown in the film "Tenderloin" director Michael Anderson has welcomed us into the world of the Boyd Hotel in San Francisco. Life ...
November 17, 2009
NEW YORK - For Alli Joseph, Founder and President of Seventh Generation Stories, the death of her mother and birth of her daughter changed her career as she started preserving life stories.
"In 2008, inspiration either hit me over the head or whispered in my ear. I was a TV host, producer and wri...
November 06, 2009
Wherever the family of Lewis Cherot is now, I want them to know that he is not forgotten.
At 26, Lewis was a rising star in the executive ranks of the entertainment industry. I'll never forget him bounding down the halls of Twentieth Century Fox with ideas on his mind and a smile on his face. H...
November 06, 2009
CALIFORNIA - A eulogy, according to Merriam-Webster, is normally "a commendatory oration or writing especially in honor of one deceased" or "high praise." But, for Personal Historian Bill Hak of Southern California, he has taken the word "eulogy" and sent it for a spin to honor the living.
"Eulo...
November 04, 2009
CALIFORNIA - A eulogy, according to Merriam-Webster, is normally "a commendatory oration or writing especially in honor of one deceased" or "high praise." But, for Personal Historian Bill Hak of Southern California, he has taken the word "eulogy" and sent it for a spin to honor the living.
"Eulo...
November 03, 2009
PENNSYLVANIA - When you sit down with Bob Leedom, something about him makes you want to share your story. Like a homemade quilt of comfort, Bob makes you feel as though anything you share about your life will be fine. In fact, the details of your life are welcome because Bob is a Personal Historia...
October 31, 2009
PENNSYLVANIA - This picture marked the door of my hotel room in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, at the Association of Personal Historians Annual Conference. No kidding. When I arrived at the front desk at the Radisson Valley Forge, the nice girl said the hotel was overbooked and my room had been gi...
September 15, 2009
Funeral Celebrants, with a personal approach to funeral service, are taking off in the United States. As our numbers grow, so does the interest in pursuing Celebrancy as a second career.
A new book from Australia, "The Funeral Celebrant's Handbook: Creating services that celebrate life and mour...
September 14, 2009
When Civil Funeral Celebrant Neil Dorward told me he was writing a book to help Celebrants, I was hopeful. Months later, as I read the first draft, I was thrilled beyond belief.
The final result of Neil's book is a powerful look at personal funeral service, reaching for the best possible deliv...
June 08, 2009
CALIFORNIA - In Middle America, most families have funeral receptions in the basement of their local church. But, in larger cities, families who don't belong to a church are facing a huge problem organizing funeral receptions. Overwhelmed, some families go without a reception after the funeral.
...
May 25, 2009
The following is Australian Celebrant Catherine Campbell's eulogy for her father, Phil Campbell.
This eulogy was read at the funeral service for Phil Campbell. Unique in its setting, his funeral was held in the bushland in honor of his love of the Great Outdoors.
For a related article on his ...
May 25, 2009
Celebrants around the world are witnessing creative ideas in funeral service. As families get involved and take a hands-on approach toward capturing a loved one's life, more farewells are being held outdoors.
Australian Celebrant Julie Ferguson recently had an amazing experience as a funeral was...
May 14, 2009
Life can be complicated and stressful, especially for women as they are expected to wear many hats and do it all with a smile.
How can women escape or accept the pressures they face? By embracing their womanhood and joining forces to support and nurture each other, we are comforted.
"Sister...
May 01, 2009
"A Gift of Grace" is an authentic read. This novel by author Amy Clipston captured my interest from the moment the cows welcomed Rebecca Kauffman home to Lancaster, Pennsylvania. For Lancaster is also my hometown and the same feeling I receive every time I travel home.
Rebecca is Amish and unab...
May 01, 2009
If your brother or sister has died, you know the depths of grief experienced with the loss of a sibling. The grief is significant as the loss of a sibling can prevent you from finding a way to move forward. It can be all consuming and yet it is a grief that is oftentimes ignored.
Author Claire ...
April 21, 2009
There are no rehearsals in funeral service. It's not like a wedding. There's no walk-through, no run-through of speakers, and no practice session.
Funeral Celebrants plan well in advance and honestly, with last minute changes, it's sometimes surprising that farewells are delivered so seamles...
April 20, 2009
"I think people have been drawn in by Madeline's eyes and smile, and her endless positivity," Maddie's mother, Heather Spohr, explained. "She was always smiling, always happy, and I think people have responded to that. They know what she went through in her life and yet, she was never unhappy. Mike...
March 26, 2009
When Zina Bethune speaks about the Infinite Dreams program, her eyes light up. With a great ability to see endless possibilities, Zina started the Infinite Dreams program in 1982 to make dance and drama available to children with disabilities.
Zina has been dancing and performing since the age o...
March 20, 2009
Imagine being told that you only have five years to live.
That is exactly what happened to Father Daniel Beegan, a 58-year-old priest with the Catholic Charismatic Church in Maine.
A few months ago, a respiratory therapist told Father Daniel that he was going to die in five years.
"After ...
March 18, 2009
Transformational Third Thursdays, a popular monthly consciousness workshop and discussion group based on the teachings of Eckhart Tolle, will meet again on March 19th from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Bank of Books, 748 E. Main St., Ventura. The series is presented by award-winning novelist Michael Mehas, auth...
March 17, 2009
Silverblue Enterprises is helping clients create a web presence to elevate a variety of businesses.
Wanting to help people take the leap into the online world, Kathleen Resch and Jackie Edwards joined forces to create Silverblue Enterprises, a website and graphic design business.
"It's imp...
March 13, 2009
Press Release, Ventura. Legendary author Ernest Hemingway once described the difficulties he faced with telling story: "I was trying to write then and I found the greatest difficulty was to put down what really happened in action; what the actual things were which produced the emotion that you exp...
March 07, 2009
Over the most recent course of Bravo's Top Chef, I celebrated every time chef Fabio Viviani won a round, won accolades or earned a spot to go on to the next round. I even wanted to wear an "I love Fabio" T-shirt, that's how wrapped up I was in his presentations. I wanted Fabio to win the entire se...
March 06, 2009
"The Wicked Wit of the West" is definitively the best read of the year as you find yourself re-reading excerpts over and over again. Author Hank Rosenfeld is giving the world a gift by sharing this story in Irving Brecher's own words.
Imagine pursuing Brecher, a screenwriter from the Golden Age ...
March 05, 2009
"Kids Video Zone was created with the premise of being a YouTube for kids. YouTube has lots of really great learning videos on its site that people have submitted, but it isn't organized in a manner that children and parents could get the most out of them. This is where the concept for KidsVideoZone...
March 03, 2009
"The Sea is often considered eternal and completes the circle of life. It can be considered a cleansing to those left behind as well," said Linda Wright, Special Events Producer of FantaSea Yachts & Yacht Club in Marina del Rey, California.
Traveling out to sea with family and friends for a lov...
February 17, 2009
Transformational Third Thursdays, a popular monthly consciousness workshop and discussion group based on the teachings of Eckhart Tolle, will meet again on February 19th from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Bank of Books, 748 E. Main St., Ventura. The series is presented by award-winning novelist Michael Mehas, a...
February 17, 2009
Since the death of Teresa Evans' 20-year-old son, Boyd, and the shocking story of his funeral care, she has been fighting for the rights of the bereaved in the United Kingdom. As a result of her story, more people are considering their options before making decisions about whom will care for the de...
February 14, 2009
When you ask Barbara Kaufmann of Wisconsin about funeral service, be prepared to hear a powerful story.
"My mother was from the generation that fell in love with the music and voice of an obscure young man from Memphis, a white boy who sounded black and was considered scandalous for his pelvic ...
February 13, 2009
If you throw parties, Paul Tidwell is the one person you want to have at every party. Friends and strangers are drawn to him because of the way his story unfolds. In fact, people are entranced by his tale of becoming a three-time "Jeopardy!" Champion. Tidwell won $40,200 on the television show "J...
February 10, 2009
Unless you've had someone die recently, there is no reason you would know that some clergy deny elements requested by family members who are grieving the death of a loved one. If you think it doesn't happen, think again. It's still happening in 2009. And, it's happening around the world. This re...
February 08, 2009
Author Willa Robinson is not someone you want to whine to about little problems, because she will put your problems into perspective in a minute. Robinson survived a fatal train crash and made a choice to inspire the next generation with a series of books for children.
"I am all about empowermen...
February 07, 2009
This is Part Four of a four part series in which friends and family members speak for themselves, by sharing their stories when things went wrong in the funeral. Families remember the day of the funeral forever.
Time seems to stop after we learn of a death, while time drags slowly in planning a ...
February 06, 2009
This is Part Three of a four part series in which friends and family members speak for themselves, by sharing their stories when things went wrong in the funeral. Families remember the day of the funeral forever.
Does a perfect funeral exist? In the best set of circumstances, elements in a fune...
February 05, 2009
This is Part Two of a four part series in which friends and family members speak for themselves, by sharing their stories when things went wrong in the funeral. Families remember the day of the funeral forever.
For public relations executive Theresa Chavez, she remembers the funeral for her fath...
February 04, 2009
This is Part One of a four part series in which friends and family members speak for themselves, by sharing their stories when things went wrong in the funeral. Families remember the day of the funeral forever.
When things don't go as expected in funeral plans, we are left with those lingering m...
February 02, 2009
This article is the final installment of a four-part series entitled "In Their Own Words," sharing stories about personal, meaningful funerals or memorials.
In facing loss, we are reminded that death and funerals change lives.
In one of the more fascinating stories ever heard, Miriam Newman ...
January 29, 2009
This article is the third installment of a four-part series entitled "In Their Own Words," sharing stories about personal, meaningful funerals or memorials.
There are a variety of ways to remember our friends and relatives after they die. But, the definition of a meaningful funeral is different ...
January 27, 2009
This article is the second installment of a four-part series entitled "In Their Own Words," sharing stories about personal, meaningful funerals or memorials.
When you lose a loved one, you will carry the memory of the funeral with you for the rest of your days. Whether you're old or young, the m...
January 25, 2009
This article is the first installment of a four-part series entitled "In Their Own Words," sharing stories about personal, meaningful funerals or memorials.
Families are taking a hands-on approach by creating memorial services or private ceremonies that fill the need to remember the life lived. ...
January 25, 2009
Although alcoholism seems more of a symptom than a cause in Blue Zone Productions' "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" it is a must-see performance for every person who escapes life's woes with a few drinks. In fact, the constant flow of alcohol consumption heightens the cruelty for character assassi...
January 13, 2009
Bank of Books has teamed with a local award-winning novelist to offer a yearlong series of transformational workshops and book study group at the Ventura bookstore. Titled "Transformational Third Thursdays," the series kicks off on Thursday, January 15th with a discussion about "Awakening to Your Li...
December 20, 2008
Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" at the Edgemar Center for the Arts features disabled and able-bodied actors in a rousing show.
At the end of the opening night performance, an emotionally moving presentation was held to honor Director Corey Allen, who has a long history as an advocate for p...
December 20, 2008
From the moment the choir starts singing on stage, the audience is launched into "A Christmas Carol" at the Edgemar Theatre in Santa Monica.
Featuring both performers with disabilities and able-bodied performers on one stage, Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" was produced by The Media Access ...
December 19, 2008
A heartfelt candle lighting service was held at Pierce Brothers Valhalla Memorial Park & Mortuary in North Hollywood, California. The annual event was held to honor the memories of loved ones who died over the last year.
Family members remembered children, siblings, parents, grandparents, aunts ...
December 18, 2008
Permission to grieve. For some reason, many of us need permission to grieve publicly.
I will never forget a funeral I attended years ago when the pastor shared tears from the pulpit after a friend in the congregation died. This person's life mattered so much, the moment touched everyone includin...
December 10, 2008
There is a web site with nearly 23,000 subscribers who want to be notified when celebrities die.
Welcome to the Celebrity Death Beeper.
"I am always trying to come up with web site ideas with my friends. In October 1999, my friend Jon Smith and I were watching TV when we saw news of the d...
December 10, 2008
When you first hear about Professional Fit Clothing, it makes you smile. An obvious need for people with special needs to have fashionable clothing that fits, it also restores dignity to many people who have sometimes been forgotten by society.
Kurt Rieback and Tom Pirruccello founded Profession...
November 29, 2008
Performers with disabilities are joining forces to officially launch the new website www.performerswithdisabilities.com.
Actors Teal Sherer and Danny Murphy created the website with the intent to promote performers with disabilities and now they're willingly sharing it with a growing online audie...
November 29, 2008
A little bit of fog didn't stop the smiles from hundreds of American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) players who were taking part in the 29th Annual Turkey Tournament at Balboa Park. Twelve regions from Burbank to Woodland Hills registered 83 teams to compete in the tournament.
AYSO soccer play...
November 25, 2008
Why do we need to hold funeral services? To mark a loss? To recognize a death? To remember a life? To start healing?
Doug Manning, international grief expert and author, tackles these questions in his book, "The Funeral: A Chance to Touch, a Chance to Serve, a Chance to Heal."
Manning expl...
November 21, 2008
"Our goal is what any actor would have. To put up the best version of 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' that we can. It just so happens that three of the four actors in this play are performers with disabilities. But, that's not the main thing about this play," actor Robert David Hall explained. ...
November 18, 2008
When you visit Funeral Celebrant Rikki Farrar's website, you see passion written all over it. The passion for her mother's story, the passion for helping people, and especially the passion for saying goodbye in a personal way.
As the owner and CEO of Good Grief Celebrations (GGC) in Philadelphia...
November 13, 2008
Betty Hechtman has been writing since she was 11-years-old. "My first story wasn't a mystery, but was about two fairies living in a rural loaf shaped mailbox," Hechtman says with a laugh. "'Hooked on Murder' is my first published murder mystery. I did have a young adult mystery 'Blue Schwartz and...
November 09, 2008
Cheers! Smiles! Goals!
Soccer trophies for everyone!
Watching hundreds of American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) Very Important Players (VIP) on the soccer field was a rewarding experience for everyone who attended the fourth annual tournament in North Hills.
The AYSO VIP Program pr...
November 03, 2008
"Art has the power to heal, to unite, and to express feeling when words sometimes can't be found. It can pay tribute to someone and serve as a constant symbol of the unique spirit within. If we look at great art through history, it can tell us so much about people and places through nonverbal commun...
November 04, 2008
The Los Angeles Daily News is ending its agreement with YourHub, the company that provided the software for Valleynews.com.
According to Daily News Editor Carolina Garcia, a new agreement might be made with the online company Pluck to fill the void created by the decision to end Valleynews.com....
October 30, 2008
Los Angeles Funeral Celebrant Dave Page has been a pastor for more than 20 years. But, eight years ago his life changed forever with the death of his five-year-old daughter.
"Our youngest daughter, Jackie, was diagnosed with a brain stem tumor. It was a fast growing tumor that the neurologist sa...
October 27, 2008
Over the last three years, I've witnessed a real change in what decedents are wearing to their funerals.
When I first started conducting funerals, many of the caskets were closed during the services. If you wanted to see the body, you had to be invited to a private family viewing. Even then, ...
October 08, 2008
West Valley resident Ladan S. is grateful for her family's safety and everything she has today, but she will never forget the journey that brought her to the United States.
Ladan was born and raised in Tehran, Iran, with three siblings. "My childhood was great. I was the second born child. I had...
October 13, 2008
If the deceased were granted final wishes, I imagine one of those wishes would be requested of the service officiant, "Say my name right at the funeral!"
When I hear from families about officiants repeatedly inserting the wrong name into a funeral service, I wonder, how did this happen?
How ...
October 07, 2008
"A celebrant is called to listen to the family's needs and wants," professional Celebrant Neil Dorward reminded. "We do not judge, we are sensitive to complex family dynamics, we are open to all possibilities and in my experience can offer genuine opportunities for healing because we allow people t...
October 06, 2008
"I became a celebrant for a number of reasons but mainly because I was aware that people were not getting the funeral they deserved," professional Celebrant Neil Dorward explained. "I remember a funeral of an aunt. The person leading the service spoke about her 'loving her knitting and her bingo' ...
October 01, 2008
Transformational Third Thursdays, a monthly workshop and discussion group about positive transformation, based on the teachings of Eckhart Tolle, will have its next meeting on October 16th from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Bank of Books, 748 E. Main St., Ventura. The series is hosted by local award-winning nov...
October 01, 2008
In dealing with the drama of life, we need a good laugh now and then and I've been waiting for a funny movie. Thanks to my teenage son's suggestion, we went to see "Ghost Town" starring Ricky Gervais, Greg Kinnear and Tea Leoni.
I didn't know much of actor Ricky Gervais beyond some funny exchang...
September 30, 2008
When you see young soccer players in their tiny colorful uniforms kicking the ball and cheering on teammates, you know you've struck a program of gold.
The AYSO Woodland Hills Region 71 Jamboree One with One Soccer program is in its fifth year of offering pressure free, fun soccer play to 4-yea...
September 29, 2008
As the funeral service belongs to the family of the deceased, more family members are bringing cameras to farewells. They want to capture the honor guard or the flag draped casket. Sometimes they want a picture of the flowers around the casket, a dove release or a final photo of the decedent. It ...
September 29, 2008
Need an Acrobat? Need a Contortionist? Need an Actor or Model? Need a Funeral Celebrant? Need an Animator?
Imagine finding a website that offers your odd job title and a free way to educate the community about your talents. That is exactly what Owner, Photographer and Designer Joel Galston i...
September 24, 2008
Intimate and personal, Celebrants are helping families who are grieving after someone dies.
Jane Ashmore Gray is one of those Celebrants in Australia. She has conducted funeral services for both older and younger decedents.
"My service for Doris was wonderful and memorable. Doris was 99 and h...
September 24, 2008
Closed casket? Open casket? Embalm? Don't Embalm? There are so many questions related to funeral services that only come to a family's attention after someone dies.
It's important for families to know the laws related to funeral service. Laws about embalming and funeral requirements differ d...
September 23, 2008
"I believe we need to educate the public to have a Celebrant in mind before it's too late," said Rona Goold, Director of the Australian Celebrants and Celebrations Network (ACCN). "I have established a national support network ACCN for civil celebrants in Australia. My major aim is to assist civil c...
September 22, 2008
If a loved one died tomorrow, would you choose to care for your loved one at home?
Jerrigrace Lyons, who founded Final Passages and pioneered a new field of home funeral guidance, joined with Olivia Bareham, founder of Sacred Crossings, to share information about the spiritual benefits, rituals a...
Los Angeles Galaxy Players Sean Franklin & Michael Gavin Make Surprise Visit to AYSO Region 71 Youth
September 21, 2008
As part of every fall season, youth soccer players have group photos taken of each division for American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) Woodland Hills Region 71. While it sounds like a typical photo day of waiting in line, combing your hair and smiling for the camera, this year was different as L...
September 20, 2008
Theerawat Chanroiet is his name and soccer is his game. A player to remember, he has moves on the field that amaze other teams.
Truly a nice player with a natural talent, Theerawat is best known as Jack to AYSO Woodland Hills Region 71 players, parents and supporters. But, watching him on the f...
September 21, 2008
It was an incredible opening to the Saturday night Los Angeles Galaxy game against D.C. United as youth soccer players were welcomed onto the field with full access at the Home Depot Center.
American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) Woodland Hills Region 71 youth soccer players were part of the...
September 13, 2008
"I like everything about soccer!" With those words, returning VIP player Fiona Kirkham kicked off the first VIP game this season for AYSO Region 71 in Woodland Hills, California.
The Very Important Player (VIP) program provides a quality soccer experience for children and adults whose physical o...
September 13, 2008
When I received my son's full mouth dental panoramic x-ray at our home, I was shocked to see the size of his wisdom teeth. Ian is 14-years-old and his four wisdom teeth were huge. His third molars were crooked and pushing on his regular teeth, threatening to rearrange his smile.
Examining the...
September 11, 2008
A luncheon was held at Maggiano's Little Italy at the Grove in Los Angeles to officially kickoff the Second Annual Los Angeles VisionWalk to fight blindness. The Los Angeles VisionWalk will be held Oct. 26.
Last year's Los Angeles VisionWalk at UCLA included 400 participants. The goal was $50,0...
September 10, 2008
Transformational Third Thursdays, a popular monthly workshop and discussion group about transformation, based on the teachings of Eckhart Tolle, will have its third meeting on August 18th from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Bank of Books, 748 E. Main St., Ventura. The series is being presented by local award-win...
September 09, 2008
The dream of becoming a professional soccer player seemed within reach as five Los Angeles Galaxy soccer players taught a youth soccer clinic for AYSO Woodland Hills Region 71.
The clinic marked an incredible opportunity for the youth soccer players to mingle with professional L.A. Galaxy players...
September 06, 2008
Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa kicked off the 2008 Fall Season for American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) Woodland Hills Region 71. Opening Day Ceremonies were held at Taft High School in Woodland Hills as the Taft High School Marching Band played the National Anthem.
"My kids played ...
August 16, 2008
As the trend of personalization and storytelling in funeral service grows, so does the need for DVD tributes that have impact.
Imagine sitting at a funeral service for your grandmother, as a DVD begins to play. The DVD Memorial Presentation starts with black and white photos from grandma's child...
August 12, 2008
Zinnia Cyclamen isn't her real name, but that doesn't matter to any of her readers. Her natural ability to write from the heart connects with a following of readers all over the world.
She has an important reason for using a pseudonym as she helps grieving families create meaningful funeral serv...
August 13, 2008
Inspirational writer Amy Clipston is lucky to be alive. Recently, her SUV was sandwiched between two tractor-trailers after she merged onto a North Carolina Highway.
"I looked up in the rearview mirror and saw the tractor-trailer bearing down on me, and my first thought was, 'He's not stopping,'...
August 11, 2008
Transformational Third Thursdays, a popular monthly consciousness workshop and discussion group based on the teachings of Eckhart Tolle, will have its second meeting on August 21st from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Bank of Books, 748 E. Main St., Ventura. The series is presented by award-winning novelist Micha...
August 11, 2008
Just when you think you can't be shocked by anything anymore, think again. I was recently shocked and surprised when I was ordered by a publicist not to write a story.
I was planning to write a positive story, a reflective story and yet I was being censored and controlled by a person from a pu...
August 10, 2008
"First sound. First light. First voice." With those words, the vision of The Broad Stage transformed into a reality.
The first audiences have experienced an amazing launch of the $45 million Eli and Edythe Broad Stage at Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center.
From the moment the theat...
August 08, 2008
In the funeral industry, it has reached the point that families expect a service to be offered by funeral homes to show a DVD or Video Photo Montage of the deceased at the funeral.
If a funeral home doesn't offer a DVD or Video Photo Montage service, many families will search at the last minute...
August 06, 2008
Conducting funerals for a living is serious business. Needing a break from the tears, we headed for The Comedy Store on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood.
My sister-in-law, Robin, was in town from Alaska and it was the perfect way to spend her final night's visit to Los Angeles. Of course, we ...
July 31, 2008
Even without estrangement, family members oftentimes disagree about a variety of issues in funeral planning including disposition of the body, funeral service format, religious references or lack of religious references, flower and musical choices. Even if the deceased expressed a clear wish to be b...
July 28, 2008
My niece, Sarah, and I share the exact same birthdays. It's amazing!
We have a 29 year age difference, so I thought it would be fun to see our very diverse wish lists.
Sarah has many important things in her life at the young age of 14. She's a teenager and she has a wealth of choices and o...
"Dying Wish" Documents Death of Dr. Michael Miller with Conscious Choice to Stop Eating and Drinking
July 28, 2008
A single phone call to a radio station led to the making of the powerful documentary film, "Dying Wish."
Dr. Michael Miller phoned the news editor of Boulder, Colorado, radio station KGNU-88.5 and told him that he had cancer, he wanted to stop eating and drinking tomorrow and he wanted someone to...
July 28, 2008
It's only a matter of time before someone offers a service to put a decedent's live talking image on-stage at a funeral service.
Powerful? Amazing? And, possible.
Author Stephanie West Allen, author of "Creating Your Own Funeral or Memorial Service: A Workbook," sent me a link about the em...
July 25, 2008
As families are taking a hands-on approach in planning and services, more family members are asking to review the tribute or eulogy prior to the day of the funeral.
This raises an important question.
Are families entitled to see a tribute or eulogy prior to a funeral, whether it's being pres...
July 25, 2008
If you love great films, you will truly love "Mamma Mia!" starring actress Meryl Streep.
My teenage sons smiled for two hours during the film. A fun jaunt? So much more than that, "Mamma Mia!" is a film that makes you feel good from the inside out.
Meryl Streep doesn't seem to represent he...
July 24, 2008
Negatives are being served up on a constant intravenous feed from the mainstream media.
When the mainstream media tells me that no one is shopping anymore, it makes me not want to shop.
When the mainstream media tells me that gas prices have increased again, even by one cent, I don't want to d...
July 21, 2008
When I was in the ninth grade, a fellow classmate of mine was participating in the required run in physical education class when he collapsed and died. As news of the boy's death spread down the school hallways and throughout classrooms, students shared shock, anger and tears. We blamed that requi...
July 21, 2008
"My inspiration for [with]tv came from lifetime experiences of raising my daughter, Victoria, who was born with developmental disabilities," said Howard Renensland, CEO & Founder of [with]tv. "The moment we are broadcasting, we will overnight change the lives of people with disabilities by providing...
July 17, 2008
My cable system has more than 1,000 channels on it, but the viewing choices have been slim pickings lately. My entire family was complaining about it the other night. Finally, I turned it off and read a book instead. I considered canceling the extensive pay cable channels until I was channel surf...
July 16, 2008
Anyone who has ever heard Holly Addy play the organ or sing in Los Angeles, remembers the experience. So much so, she is often recommended for funeral services by word-of-mouth throughout Southern California.
As she's performed at more than 2,000 funeral services, her talents include organist, p...
July 16, 2008
"Our inspiration came from a need to reach out to someone, or some group somewhere in the world," said Karen Shriner, an art teacher at Daniel Boone High School and Daniel Boone Youth Education Advisor.
The inspiration caught on and grew.
Now, the entire Daniel Boone School District in Birds...
July 16, 2008
Stories abound about teachers crossing over the line during the last school year.
In one classroom, the teacher taught teenagers that abortions are fine saying "they're just cells anyway." The female teacher followed that by joking about doing drugs, when the school has an anti-drug policy in pla...
July 12, 2008
Since the end of the school year, my 13-year-old son has been telling us about a film he wanted us to see. He saw the film at school during the closing days of the school year.
The film was powerful because he talked about it constantly. In fact, my son was excited every time he told me about ...
July 11, 2008
In visiting my hometown in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, I had the opportunity to sit down with an Amish woman and her family.
She was kind and generous, even having her daughters harmonize and sing us a song. It was beautiful.
A simpler life was felt.
There was no television blaring in the b...
July 10, 2008
My father always wondered: why do people who didn't visit the deceased in life, show up for the funeral service? It confused him.
Why wait for the funeral to say goodbye?
"Gather around the table and visit me while I'm alive," my father said often.
When my father died last year, irony was...
June 23, 2008
Ventura College has teamed up with award-winning author Michael Mehas to offer a weekend writing intensive workshop, entitled "The Craft of Building Emotion Into Story."
Teaching the workshop will be Michael Mehas, local attorney and author of the critically acclaimed novel Stolen Boy.
The wo...
June 23, 2008
A local award-winning novelist has teamed with the historic Bank of Books to offer a six-month series of transformational workshops and a consciousness book study group at the Ventura bookstore.
"Transformational Third Thursdays," the series kicks off on Thursday, July 17th with a discussion abo...
June 23, 2008
The third annual West Coast Author Premiere will be held on Saturday, July 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the fabulous Crowne Plaze Hotel, 450 E. Harbor Avenue, Ventura. The event will feature local authors as well as writers from across the country.
Hosted by mystery writer Starr Reina and...
June 21, 2008
Absorbing actor John Siciliano's energy makes you a believer in exercise and the power of choice.
"Life is about choices. You can't let a disability stop you from living," John encourages.
Despite being an amputee above the right knee as a result of a car accident, John hasn't allowed anythin...
June 21, 2008
It is common knowledge that human bodies may be donated to medical science for study after death, but most pet owners do not know that they have a similar choice for their pets.
Dr. Martin Stephens, Vice President of Animal Research Issues at The Humane Society of the United States in Gaithersbur...
June 19, 2008
"Hey, bud-deeeee!" With those two words, the audience knows exactly who they're about to see: Comedian Josh Blue.
My children love Josh Blue. My mother loves Josh Blue. My husband loves Josh Blue. Even my sister, who is stranded in the deep snowfalls of Wisconsin, loves Josh Blue. Millions ...
June 17, 2008
As the author of "Creating Your Own Funeral or Memorial Service: A Workbook," Stephanie West Allen loves an incredible funeral story. So much so, she has created a Yahoo! discussion group to share diverse stories focused on unique farewells around the world.
Her interest in funeral planning sta...
June 14, 2008
Coach Fernando Escala handed out his last set of team trophies at Knapp Ranch Park after a friendly game between parents and youth baseball players. That was followed by a friendly water balloon toss at the Knapp Ranch Majors field.
The closing team party for the Angels marked another great seas...
June 14, 2008
If you watch the NBC television show "My Name is Earl," you absolutely know the character named Didi, also known as the one-legged girl. Portrayed by actress Tracy Ashton, Didi is hilarious and memorable.
"It's been really fabulous working on 'My Name is Earl.' They're wonderful people, the entir...
June 09, 2008
When David Zimmerman was living in the San Francisco Bay area, he had the Hollywood sign hanging above his door.
"I'd look at that sign and say 'I gotta go there some day,'" Zimmerman said. "I was waiting tables when I got to LA and met Mary Rings. She invited me to attend a class she was teachi...
June 13, 2008
"A piece of crochet thread for a woman who won awards for her beautiful blankets. A rock for a man who was the foundation for his family. A red feather for a woman who loved hummingbirds. These are all examples of those special ceremonial touches that Celebrants use to help the family and friends...
June 13, 2008
"Jumping into Marketing, 1-2-3" will be the next topic for discussion in the Third Thursdays seminar series for writers to be held Thursday, June 19th from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Bank of Books, 748 E. Main Street, Ventura.
The series is presented by two award-winning novelists, Michael Mehas, author ...
June 10, 2008
Reading the honest Technicolor life shared by Karen Putz in her website www.deafmomworld.com often brings tears to readers' eyes. The tears are from laughing, not crying. Many moms can identify with Karen and the trials she shares so openly in parenting. One of her blog entries discusses the sear...
June 03, 2008
Imagine attending a funeral for a loved one only to discover that your home has been robbed during the service.
Even worse, the thief had an easy score because you listed the funeral service details in a paid death notice or an obituary in your local newspaper. Your home was guaranteed to be e...
June 07, 2008
Imagine losing 17 baseball games in a row and finally winning your 18th game. That is exactly what happened in the Juniors division of the Knapp Ranch Baseball League as Yankees players, parents and coaches had tears of joy filling their eyes.
When the Yankees players arrived for the playoff gam...
June 06, 2008
With gas prices soaring, certain luxuries have been removed and replaced with alternatives. One of those alternatives has come in the form of an amazing gift: Netflix film rentals on my doorstep.
No kidding! DVD rentals ordered online and sent through the mail.
People have been telling me f...
June 02, 2008
A story written by Dennis McCarthy in the Los Angeles Daily News has inspired someone else to join in a 27-mile walk to Dodger Stadium.
When Mark Steele read about Gary Wolber walking to Dodger Stadium to raise money for Mattel Children's Hospital UCLA, he picked up the phone.
"I called Gary a...
May 28, 2008
Auti Angel truly has the voice of an angel. Every word she shares is encouraging as she wears positive energy like a badge of honor. She shares that energy with everyone who crosses her path.
Auti has found the strength to rise above tough situations in her life. She grew up in a gang-infested ne...
May 30, 2008
The first AYSO Region 71 Woodland Hills Spring Soccer League was met with smiles from 270 youth soccer players as hundreds of relaxed parents watched games from the sidelines at Bischoff Field.
John Gernert, Coordinator of the Spring League, received positive feedback from both players and parent...
May 30, 2008
To serve the needs of families, Busch Funeral and Crematory Services is the first funeral home in the country to add a Celebrant Coordinator to their staff.
Celebrant Cathy Nichols is the first Certified Funeral Celebrant Coordinator in the United States, located in the Greater Cleveland area of ...
May 30, 2008
Canadians who want choices in saying goodbye are embracing the Celebrant movement.
In-Sight Institute Funeral Celebrants focus on storytelling and favorites of the decedent that represent someone's full life and personality. The funerals are uplifting, memorable and meaningful.
Robert Steeves...
May 28, 2008
Time and time again we see it in paid death notices across the country.
"No funeral service requested."
When comedian Dick Martin died recently, a family spokesman told the Associated Press, "At Martin's request there will be no funeral." Martin is the latest to join a list of famous people w...
May 24, 2008
Renting movies is an adventure. You never know what the movie will be like until you get it home. You do know there was a reason you didn't go to the movie theater to see it with the full experience of expensive popcorn, soda and candy, but if you love films as much as I do, you embrace every proj...
May 23, 2008
UPDATE: LEAP Academy did not raise the money needed. The school is now officially closed. The semester for the students ended last Friday. Parents will be notified via newsletters.
CHATSWORTH, CA – On May 23, 2008, 100 students and parents from LEAP Academy, a small public charter high school...
May 21, 2008
Washington, D.C. - Today, a coalition of animal protection organizations and a former Ringling Bros. employee asked a federal district court in Washington D.C. to immediately order a halt to Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus' (Ringling Bros.) cruel practice of shackling and confining endange...
May 15, 2008
If it takes a village to help a child, then the village is available at the Hand in Hand Family & Child Development Center for children with special needs in Encino, California.
A recent tour of an open house at Hand in Hand revealed leaders who truly care about early intervention. In fact, some ...
May 15, 2008
If you love salad, you will love The Promenade Deli in Woodland Hills at the Promenade Mall.
In today's economy, you can still have a treat, get a bite on the go, and enjoy the price.
The Promenade Deli has two salads that out-sell all of their other deli food choices: Chinese Chicken Salad a...
May 12, 2008
When Briana Walker joined Colours Wheelchairs as a model, she met Auti Angel, who was a wheelchair dancer and pioneer in the hip hop world. Auti opened the door for Briana to wheelchair dancing.
"Auti introduced me to wheelchair dancing and it's something I love to do. I'm very passionate about...
May 12, 2008
A Silver seal in the Nautilus Book Awards, a national competition to recognize books that can change the world, has been awarded to "Angel Park," a novel about the forces stifling public education. Ventura author Patricia Kokinos will be one of the award-winners featured in the Nautilus booth at th...
May 10, 2008
"Getting into Print: Articles, Blogs, Letters, Critiques" will be the next topic for discussion in the Third Thursdays seminar series for writers to be held Thursday, May 15th, 2008, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Bank of Books, 748 E. Main Street, Ventura.
The series is being presented by two award-win...
April 14, 2008
"I'd like to see more exposure for amputees in entertainment, but not just as victims of an accident or background in war movies. I think more exposure on television and in film would help people become more familiar and comfortable with amputees and, hopefully, cut down on the shock and discriminat...
May 01, 2008
Casket carts on wheels are used to transfer caskets from one location to the next when family is not present. Funeral staff does not gather six to eight pallbearers simply to conduct transfers from the mortuary to the viewing room or church.
So, why aren't casket carts required for all transfe...
April 27, 2008
Christiaan Bailey is so busy these days that this interview had to be conducted from the beach at Pleasure Point in Santa Cruz.
"We're in the middle of a surf contest right now. It's a beautiful day today...about 75 degrees, and the waves are perfect," Bailey says, as he wheels himself to a quiet...
April 27, 2008
Nadezhda Aries is a 14-year-old girl who attends seventh grade at Woodland Hills Academy. She loves playing sports such as volleyball, soccer, flag football, and basketball. While she has played softball with girls in the past, this season she wanted to do something different.
"I wanted drama and...
April 24, 2008
Actor Mitch Longley is one of the most successful and highly visible performers with a disability in the entertainment industry.
On a recent episode of the ABC series "Desperate Housewives," Longley, a wheelchair user, was featured opposite actress Eva Longoria Parker arguing over a handicapped p...
April 17, 2008
Every single one of Pastry Chef Paul W. Thompson's desserts is tempting. It is only fitting that he named his West Valley Company "Dessert Temptations" because it is a sentiment that truly represents his talents.
Chef Paul W.'s "Dessert Temptations" are now available through the newly opened Cena...
April 21, 2008
Actress Kendal Brenneman has performed in both film and television, but her hardest role to date was saying goodbye to a young lady who changed her life.
"My boyfriend's daughter, Marieke, 14, passed away in 2006 when she suffered an epileptic seizure in the bathtub," Brenneman explains. "Mariek...
April 14, 2008
If you want to see a grin the size of Dodger Stadium, just ask 13-year-old Alexander Janis about his love of baseball. He knows everybody's jersey number on his Juniors team, the Dodgers. He knows team statistics and the details of every play.
"It's fun. I like getting hits, getting on base," ...
April 15, 2008
Ventura Author Patricia Kokinos will be the special guest at the Spring Educators Reception on Saturday, April 26th, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Ventura Barnes & Noble, 4820 Telephone Road, Ventura, California. She will be discussing and signing her award-winning novel, Angel Park, an inside story abou...
April 11, 2008
If you love delicious food and authentic French cuisine, there is a hidden treasure in West Hills, California.
Delicious gourmet food is now waiting for your arrival. With five owners, each taking a different role, Cena is a name that will roll off your tongue after one visit. Add in one chef who...
April 11, 2008
UCP Wheels for Humanity President David Richard joined California's First Lady Maria Shriver on the American Idol stage at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood for the Fox television show "Idol Gives Back!" Joined by volunteers from UCP Wheels for Humanity and other organizations, Shriver honored volunte...
April 12, 2008
Los Angeles City Councilman Dennis P. Zine is a perfect example of someone who cares about his community as he continues to follow through on his promises.
"One of the pledges I made to my constituents in my first election in 2001 was that I would donate $25,000 a year from my salary to charity,"...
Performers With Disabilities: "The History of Bowling" Opens to Rave Reviews at The NoHo Arts Center
April 10, 2008
Theatre aficionados and disability experts have been enjoying the West Coast premiere engagement of "The History of Bowling" at The NoHo Arts Center in North Hollywood, California. The show runs through April 27, 2008.
Reviews recommending the show have been written by the Los Angeles Times, Bac...
April 07, 2008
Actor Kurt Yaeger is forging a new path for performers with disabilities through talent, hard work and self-promotion. Taking a hands-on approach, Yaeger has found success over the last year despite being a single-leg amputee.
Through 75 auditions, he gained work in the film "Charlie Wilson's ...
March 28, 2008
Dr. Margaret Elaine Ayers, Psychoneurophysiologist, was one of the first three pioneers in the field of Neurofeedback. She had been in full-time private practice in Beverly Hills since 1975 and was internationally renowned for her work with brain injury and in bringing patients out of coma, as well ...
March 30, 2008
Los Angeles City Councilman Dennis P. Zine threw out the first ball for Knapp Ranch Baseball in West Hills, CA, while he also made a commitment to accessibility improvements at the park highlighted by an additional personal donation out of his own pocket.
"Our goal is to enhance this community in...
March 26, 2008
"Changing the Schools Can Change the World" is the theme of the new website launched this week by California author Patricia Kokinos.
Her novel, "Angel Park," is an award-winning philosophical mystery about the forces stifling public education. She will be reading from her novel and discussing...
March 22, 2008
If you love the theatre, you will love what Blue Zone Productions brings to the stage at the NoHo Arts Center in North Hollywood, California.
From the moment the lead character, played by actor Danny Murphy, enters the wide wheelchair accessible stage, which reaches into the audience in an inclus...
March 19, 2008
"I'm very passionate about not showing the world people with disabilities but instead showing people with disabilities the world. We all have the potential to be beautiful, wonderful and talented people," singer Tobias Forrest says, "I just want to sing."
And, sing he does. Forrest is the lead ...
March 18, 2008
Times are changing in the funeral industry as millions of baby boomers are choosing a hands-on approach to plan a loved one's farewell. Family members are getting involved in every detail by organizing the stories to be shared, playing favorite music, and displaying favorite flowers they create the...
March 18, 2008
International Grief Expert and Author Doug Manning is launching a new website as a safe place to discuss grief and elder care.
The Care Community, www.TheCareCommunity.com, provides forums to discuss topics on grieving different losses.
"On the website, we have forums where people can grieve...
March 07, 2008
"All About the Self-Publishing Route" will be the next topic for discussion in the Third Thursdays seminar series for writers to be held Thursday, March 20th from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Bank of Books, 748 E. Main Street, Ventura, California. The series is being presented by two award-winning local noveli...
March 07, 2008
Book based on murder of fifteen-year-old in Santa Barbara, California, allegedly orchestrated by youngest man on FBI's Most Wanted List.
Ventura author and attorney Michael Mehas will make an appearance to read from his award-winning novel, "Stolen Boy," on Saturday, March 22nd, at 6:00 p.m. at ...
March 07, 2008
This article originally appeared on www.SixtyIsSexyNow.com.
Sophia Corbett is a rarity. With her positive outlook, infectious energy, willingness to listen, and strong focus on helping clients with a specialty in hair color, you would never guess Sophia is 62-years-young.
While she wears he...
March 05, 2008
"Things are opening up in film, television and theatre with respect to issues of disability—there has been progress. At the same time, the surface has barely been scratched," says Sharon Jensen, executive director of the Alliance for Inclusion in the Arts.
Based in New York City, the Alli...
February 29, 2008
Holocaust Remembrance Day is May 2nd this year, but remembering once a year is not enough.
In helping the world remember, Los Angeles Television Director Zane Buzby is transforming a wish to help Jewish Holocaust survivors into action.
Buzby is the Executive Director of The Survivor Mitzvah ...
February 21, 2008
Actress Ann Stocking has a memorable scene in the film "Stuck On You." She plays a casting director who is faced with conjoined twins Matt Damon and Greg Kinnear, but only one of them wants to act on film.
What the audience didn't notice in that scene was that Stocking has a disability. In rea...
February 18, 2008
Christopher Voelker is likely the most recognized photographer with a disability. He has a great career highlighted by an incredible body of work.
Voelker has a way with the camera that transforms a still photo into a portrait with a voice. With an eye for inventive visual aspects, his creative ...
February 15, 2008
Article originally published on www.SixtyIsSexyNow.com.
Marion Green has reinvented herself several times since retiring at 65. Now, she spends her time inspiring the younger crowd with her positive, adventurous nature.
"I just returned from a twelve-day cruise to Canada and New England. I go...
February 15, 2008
Article originally published on www.SixtyIsSexyNow.com.
Donna Hartley is a unique woman. When she steps onto a plane, she feels differently than everyone else because she has survived a plane crash. That day nearly thirty years ago in Los Angeles changed her life forever.
"That was my definin...
February 15, 2008
Article originally published on www.SixtyIsSexyNow.com.
"There is power in numbers, and performers with disabilities should be seen in the entertainment industry," actress Linda Lutz said. "I believe change is possible."
Performers with Disabilities (PWD) are speaking out. With the growing nu...
January 29, 2008
Once a year, the Florida Motion Picture and Television Association (FMPTA) awards an annual trophy to someone outstanding in the entertainment industry. This year's recipient of the R. John Hugh Award is Ed Donovan, Editor of Infocus Magazine. Donovan shares the award with the publisher of Infocus...
January 23, 2008
The first of six "Third Thursdays" writing seminars proved to be a huge success at Bank of Books, 748 East Main Street, Ventura.
Michael Mehas, author of the critically acclaimed novel "Stolen Boy," and Patricia Kokinos, author of the prize-winning novel "Angel Park," kicked off the free writin...
January 23, 2008
Scott and Penni Newport of Royal Oak, Michigan, have been facing their son's terminal illness for six years. In fact, their son, Evan, has been sent home from the hospital several times to die.
"When Penni was 35 weeks into the pregnancy, we were told our baby had a 50/50 chance of survival," Sc...
January 17, 2008
If you think that Hollywood never creates anything original, that doesn't mean that someone in Hollywood isn't creating something you have never seen before.
Jim Troesh is an actor, writer, producer and director who is taking his story to television. He's currently in production on a half hour p...
January 17, 2008
The power and global reach of the Internet is far more significant than anyone anticipated decades ago when the concept was first discussed.
The website www.DisabledOnline.com is proof positive that an online content driven website reaches both disabled and able-bodied communities around the worl...
January 18, 2008
The storm is coming and it's coming in the form of Larry Sapp II, Founder and President of Abilities United Productions.
After more than 12 years creating and refining the formula for what he feels is the answer to breaking the Hollywood stereotypes and helping to end the accepted industry-wide ...
January 16, 2008
In Atlanta, Georgia, Laurel Lawson performs as a dancer with Full Radius Dance, a modern dance company that includes dancers with disabilities in integrated dance.
"Full Radius Dance might ideally run at 50% each of dancers with and without disabilities. Right now we have two people who are using...
January 15, 2008
Michael Mehas, Ventura attorney and author of the critically acclaimed novel "Stolen Boy," and Patricia Kokinos, Ventura educator and author of the prize-winning novel "Angel Park," will offer a six-month series of writing seminars at no cost as members of the California Literary Arts Society.
"T...
January 14, 2008
For more information on Robin´s work as an auditor visit www.access-auditing.com.
For more information on his disability resources directory visit Ableize ~ disability and mobility information.
January 14, 2008
There are only a few professional dance companies in the United States that are physically integrated. One of those companies is Full Radius Dance in Atlanta, Georgia.
Douglas Scott, Artistic and Executive Director of Full Radius Dance, took an interest in integrated dance during the early 90's.
...
January 12, 2008
Film producer Michael Mehas is attempting to save the life of Jesse James Hollywood, who is charged with the murder of 15-year-old Nicholas Markowitz of West Hills, California.
Mehas has written a book, "Stolen Boy," based on the case. The book is now attracting attention nationwide.
Controv...
January 11, 2008
Allen Rucker is best known for his long track record of writing for television. As his recent book, "The Best Seat in the House: How I Woke Up One Tuesday and Was Paralyzed for Life," climbs in sales with its release in paperback, he is gaining attention for his own story.
A victim of Transve...
January 11, 2008
Talking with Steve Gladstone is a treat. He's humorous, honest, and a realist who resides in Hollywood, Florida. Clearly the energy in his work as an actor, writer, singer and dancer, is inspired by his own life experience. As a member of the Screen Actors Guild and Actors' Equity Association, he...
January 09, 2008
As the Executive Director of the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles, Gail Williamson promotes education, public awareness, and acceptance of people with Down syndrome. In her free time, she is also fighting for the rights of performers with Down syndrome and other disabilities. "You can´...
January 08, 2008
The full title of Brian Shaughnessy´s book tips the reader that the true life story will offer both honest and funny moments. "The Squeaky Wheel – An Unauthorized Autobiography" is being prepared for a screenplay that hopefully will make a difference in the understanding of people with disabil...
January 03, 2008
"Having a job and some way to contribute in saying goodbye is so important to the living. My friend, Jim, said, ´The difference was that you let us in and everybody got a job.´ I got the biggest thank you for inviting people into the process," Jack Manning explained. "We didn´t use a funeral home, n...
December 30, 2007
"'Sesame Street' is rare. For almost 40 years the writers, producers and administrators have been committed to including people with disabilities to truly represent society. But, how often do you see people with disabilities in commercials, television shows, film or theatre?" writer Emily Perl Kin...
January 15, 2008
"After losing four beauty pageants, visualization changed my life," former Miss Hawaii Donna Hartley said. "I´ve devoted my life to help other people reach their goals through visualization."
Hartley´s first dream was skiing in the Olympics. She was close to qualifying for the United States ski...
December 29, 2007
"A funeral should be a celebration of a lifetime!" That is the message from Certified Funeral Celebrant Ruthann Disotell.
The words by an unknown author, "Aspire to inspire before you expire," help families visualize Disotell´s intent on her website www.CelebrationofaLifetime.com.
Fro...
December 24, 2007
David Greenhalgh's life changed with a limp in his mid-forties. After years of redundant therapy and misdiagnoses, a neurologist diagnosed him with Cervical Spondylosis. "I had an operation to stop things from getting worse. They cut away part of my spinal cord c4 to c7. When I came out of the h...
December 20, 2007
The Beatles song "Revolution" should be the new anthem for Performers With Disabilities (PWD) as they join forces in the call for change. Their contributions are profound, yet their vision remains largely ignored by the media and the entertainment industry. "It is time for people with so-called di...
December 19, 2007
Mama Sue's Cookies attract lovers of sweet treats all over the West Coast at movie studios and a variety of businesses.
Owner and Founder Sue Feinstein started the company a few years ago. "I'd send cookies with my husband to his work site. His co-workers loved them. Everyone thought the cooki...
December 17, 2007
Julie Wirtz recently returned to Kauai full-time carrying the titles of Wedding Officiant and Funeral Celebrant as she helps people by performing weddings and funerals with a spirituality that is universal in nature. For several years, she divided her time between Seattle and Kauai. "I think peopl...
December 15, 2007
Berile and Connie Stander's family has created a tradition for saying farewell. In their family, the funeral services don't focus on religion and clergy don't officiate. Instead, only immediate family and close friends gather together at graveside. One family member leads the service as each pers...
December 13, 2007
"It's sad. I go into businesses and companies and I'm fully accepted in the corporate world, but not when it comes to a TV show or film project," actress Teal Sherer explained. "I want to bring attention to the problems that performers with disabilities face. Nothing is going to change unless we ...
December 12, 2007
Carole Brody Fleet knows what it's like to be a widow. That's why she wrote the book "Widows Wear Stilettos," to help young widows who are facing similar situations.
Her husband, police officer Mike Fleet, died from Lou Gherig's disease. She was 40 when he died and their daughter was only 11.
...
December 10, 2007
Les Schobert is gaining national attention for his work on behalf of elephants.
Schobert has worked in zoos since the 1960's when his father was a zoo veterinarian. He served as the General Curator of the Los Angeles Zoo and the North Carolina Zoo, specifically in elephant care. He also was a ...
December 07, 2007
Tom Rider, a former employee of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, is on a mission to save elephants from cruelty.
Early next year, a lawsuit filed on behalf of Rider, the Animal Welfare Institute, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Animal Protection Inst...
December 05, 2007
Before Richard Pryor's passing, his wife, Jennifer Pryor, established Pryor's Planet on behalf of their mutual love of animals. It is a legacy that continues to make a difference today.
"The turning point for us was in 1979 when Richard and I went to Africa on a safari and saw all of the beautifu...
December 05, 2007
Melya Kaplan is a teacher and an activist. As the Founder and Executive Director of Voice for the Animals Foundation, Kaplan speaks out on behalf of the elephants at the Los Angeles Zoo.
"The tide is turning. Elephant exhibits are being phased out all over this country. The Bronx Zoo is phasin...
December 04, 2007
Former Miss Hawaii Donna Hartley stepped onto Continental flight 603 in Los Angeles bound for Hawaii as she was planning to emcee the Miss Hawaii pageant.
With 198 passengers aboard, the plane was going 167 miles per hour when it exploded upon takeoff. The plane was filled with fiery smoke cau...
December 04, 2007
There is a hidden treasure worth finding at The NoHo Arts Center in North Hollywood.
In the world musical premiere of "Yo-Ho-Ho! A Pirate's Christmas," there is something appealing for every age group.
From the moment Black-Eyed Johnny (Jonathan Zenz) grabs a pirate's rope and swings into the...
December 02, 2007
When it comes to cleaning your house and going green, Dan Stih is an expert indoor environmental consultant who has written a book about "Healthy Living Spaces."
While this is especially a hot topic in the homes of environmentalists, it is surprising to find out how common sense comes into play....
November 30, 2007
Every James Bond fan remembers actor Richard Kiel as the character "Jaws," in the James Bond films "The Spy Who Loved Me," and "Moonraker," but he is about to put his mark on history in quite another way.
For the past 27 years, Kiel has found his labor of love in researching and writing the true ...
November 29, 2007
Actor Danny Murphy wants to change the world so performers with disabilities are counted and recognized. Murphy, who has been a quadriplegic since a diving accident at the age of 19, serves as the National Vice Chair of the Screen Actors Guild Performers with Disabilities (PWD) Committee. By parti...
November 29, 2007
When Karren Alexander was 3 years old, she pulled up a chair to her mother's ringer washer. An inquisitive child, she was interested in the moving wheel. But, when her arms became stuck in the ringer washer, her life changed forever.
Due to the damage, the doctors amputated both of her arms from ...
November 29, 2007
"The History of Bowling," will make history at The NoHo Arts Center in North Hollywood, California. Written by disabled playwright Michael Ervin, the play will feature performers with disabilities.
While it may seem like just another Hollywood theatre production, the story of performers with d...
November 28, 2007
With baby boomers leading the trend of personalized funerals, Professional Clown Kate Smith is joining the Celebrant movement to help them get what they want.
Smith joins more than 1,200 Certified Funeral Celebrants who have been trained by the In-Sight Institute to listen to stories from a griev...
November 28, 2007
Everyone has attended an impersonal funeral service at least once. We attend the service out of duty and respect to our loved one, but five minutes into a generic reading in which the decedent´s name is inserted, or not, into a script, we look at our watches wondering when it will be over. No one ...