The Lucky Strikes Films Studio proudly presents their second annual Lucky Strikes Films Festival, which will take place on Sunday, September 23rd, 2018 at the Covina Center for the Performing Arts. Multi talented and acclaimed filmmaker Romane Simone is the founder of this esteemed film festival.
Festival founder and filmmaker Romane Simon
Celebrities in attendance are Grammy winning Singer-Songwriter Eric Bellinger, Emmy winning actress Judi Evans (Days of Our Lives), actor Sean Faris star (Pretty Little Liars, Sleepover, Never Back Down,I am not for sale: The Fight to End Human Trafficking), Mel Novak (star of Bruce Lee’s Game of Death, an Eye for an Eye opposite Chuck Norris and Steve McQueen: American Icon opposite Mel Gibson), Noel Gugliemi (Training Day, Bruce Almighty, Fast and Furious), actor and filmmaker Harley Wallen (Bennett’s Song), actress Kaiti Wallen (Into A Dark Mind) filmmaker Dustin Ferguson (Nemesis 5: The New Model), actress Dawna Lee Heising (Samurai Cop 2: Deadly Vengeance), actress Vida Ghaffari (The Mindy Project), TV personality Raquel Lee (BET’s Real Husbands of Hollywood), rap artist C-TRU, musicians Jeff Chery (VH1’s Signed) and Yung (famously known for the hit song “Teach me how to Dougie”), noted entertainment attorney Nadia Davari and many more.
ATTIRE: upscale
MEDIA RSVP: Please RSVP to Joe Williamson at williamsonmgmt@gmail.com
On Wednesday Sept 26th, Betrayed will have its world premiere at the TCL Chinese Theatres 6 in 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028.
This much anticipated action crime thriller from multi award-winning actor and filmmaker Harley Wallen, “Betrayed,” has a wonderful ensemble cast consisting of Richard Tyson, John Savage, Billy Wirth, TJ Storm, Yan Birch, Kaiti Wallen, Calhoun Koenig, Angelina Danielle Cama and Blanca Blanco.
Betrayed poster
Numerous celebrities and VIPs are expected at this event such as filmmaker/actor Harley Wallen (Bennett’s Song), Richard Tyson (Kindergarten Cop), John Savage (The Thin Red Line), Billy Wirth (The Lost Boys), TJ Storm (Punisher: War Zone), Kaiti Wallen (Into A Dark Mind), Yan Birch (The People Under the Stairs), Calhoun Koenig (Bennett’s Song), Angelina Danielle Cama (Moving Parts) and Blanca Blanco (Fake News). Other celebrities expected are Jake Busey (The Predator), Scout Taylor-Compton (Rob Zombie’s Halloween 1 and 2), Tom Berenger (Platoon), Billy Zane (Titantic), Tara Reid (American Pie), Naomi Grossman (American Horror Story), Aki Aleong (Babylon 5), Dave Sheridan (Scary Movie), Hank Garrett (Three Days of the Condor), Mel Novak (Bruce Lee’s Game of Death), Dawna Lee Heising (Samurai Cop 2: Deadly Vengeance), Vida Ghaffari (The Mindy Project), Jimmy Star and Ron Russell (The Jimmy Star Show with Ron Russell), Erika Hoveland (Before I Wake) and Felissa Rose (Sleepaway Camp).
Award-winning actor and filmmaker Harley Wallen.
PARKING: Park for up to 4-hours for $2 with validation from the TCL Chinese 6 Theatres. ($2.00 every 20 minutes thereafter).
Media RSVP: Joe Williamson at williamsonmgmt@gmail.com
On Saturday, May 19th, many celebrities and luminaries in the martial arts world will be inducted into the prestigious USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame at their gala at the Doubletree Hilton at 6161 West Centinela in Los Angeles. Celebrities awarded at the gala are legendary actor and master Stephen Lang (Avatar), legendary action star Mel Novak (Bruce Lee’s Game of Death, Steve McQueen: American Icon opposite Mel Gibson), legendary action star Laurene Landon (Maniac Cop 1 and 2, Sky opposite Norman Reedus), multi award-winning actress, model and martial artist Dawna Lee Heising (Samurai Cop 2: Deadly Vengeance opposite Tommy Wiseau, Nemesis 5: The New Model), multi award-winning filmmaker Thomas J. Churchill (Check Point, Nation’s Fire) and multi award- winning actress and HPC’s very own Vida G. (The Mindy Project, Jimmy Kimmel Live). Additionally, Vida will be the first person of Iranian descent to be bestowed this prestigious award. Legendary action star Gloria Hendry (Live and Let Die), former five time world kickboxing champion and former four time sport karate champion and filmmaker Robert Parham, five time world karate kick champion and action star Kathy Long, filmmaker and martial Art Camacho, grandmaster Eric Lee, master and action hero Dan Southworth (The Scorpion King), actress Joycelyne Lew (The Big Brawl), master Brian Kula Fung, martial artist and performer Alan Koa, and martial artist and dancer Michelle Manu will also be awarded. Dr. Robert Goldman who will receive the Living Legend Award, special guest of honor and creator of the TV series Kung Fu, Ed Spielman and many more. Martial Artist and stand-up comic Mark Hoadley will be opening the gala with his unique style of stand-up comedy. Sifu Hoadley is a 3 time Hall of Fame inductee and last year’s Alliance inductee. Mark frequently performs at The World Famous Comedy Store, The Ice House and the Clown House. For the first time ever, it will be a mini Black Belt Jones reunion with stars Gloria Hendry and Mel Novak with a special tribute to Jim Kelly.
Grandmaster Jim Thomas and Master Lori Hallmark
This renowned Hall of Fame was founded by Grandmaster Jim Thomas, Ph.D./D.Sc./Ma.Dsc. Dr. Thomas is a 10th degree grand master and is recognized as one of 20 worldwide. He has been active in the martial arts for over half a century. In addition to serving as the head coach for Team USA, he was inducted into 6 various martial arts ‘Hall of Fame’ institutions and listed in ‘Who’s – Who’ in the world of Martial Arts. Grandmaster Thomas has won over 200 awards and trophies and served in the U.S. Air Force for 7 years during the Vietnam Evacuation Era. He was a former athlete for the USA World Class Competition Team and has appeared in over 8 Martial Arts Motions pictures.
The U.S.A. Martial Arts ‘Hall of Fame’ “Hall of Heroes” was originally created in 1976 by Grand Master Robert Trias, the first man to open a martial arts school in the U.S. In its beginning it was very small in nature and was done spontaneously at various Martial Arts functions. Grandmaster Thomas and Mike Day were called upon to orchestrate this function into what it is today. Even with the passing of Grandmaster Trias and Day, Thomas has kept this event alive himself and includes new exciting things each and every year! This event actually spans three days from May 19th to May 21st with seminars and classes and the gala being on the 19th.
Sci-fi/Action/Martial Arts Drama Is Executive Produced by Mark Popejoy and Albert Pyun
The upcoming Nemesis 5 is executive produced by Albert Pyun and Mark Popejoy, written by Mike Reeb and is directed by Dustin Ferguson (“The Amityville Legacy”,”Sleepaway Camp IV: The Survivor”). Legendary filmmaker Albert Pyun (” The Sword and the Sorcerer”,”Cyborg” starring Jean-Claude Van Damme,) wrote and directed the first four Nemesis films. Sue Price starred in “Nemesis 2: Nebula”, “Nemesis 3: Time Lapse” and “Nemesis 4: Death Angel”, and returns to star in “Nemesis 5: The New Model”, along with Schuylar Craig, who plays her daughter in the film.
filmmaker Dustin Ferguson
This production features legendary action star Mel Novak (Bruce Lee’s “Game of Death”, “An Eye for an Eye” opposite Chuck Norris) as the leader of the Red Army Hammerheads and multi award-winning actress Dawna Lee Heising (“Amityville: Evil Never Dies”, “Revenge of the Samurai Cop” with Tommy Wiseau of “The Disaster Artist”) as Barbie.
Nemesis 5 poster
“I’m excited to be shopping Nemesis 5 this fall at the American Film Market,” says noted cult filmmaker Ferguson.
This much anticipated film takes place in the future. It is the year 2077 and terrorist organization known as The Red Army Hammerheads now dominate the Earth. The fate of humanity now rests in the hands of The New Model, Ari Frost (Schuylar Craig). Trained under the wing of Alex Rain (Sue Price), she must form an army of cyborg humans to take down the regime and regain control. After all, 86.5% is still considered human…Please check out the new Nemesis 5 trailer at: https://youtu.be/4SbIVPHgWFo
Actors Dawna Lee Heising, Schuylar Craig and Mel Novak on the set of Nemesis 5
Prolific, hard-working and talented filmmaker Ferguson has owned and operated several film distribution and production companies, including 42ND Street Films and Sinister Studios. He has directed over 50 features to date, including such notable films as “Camp Blood 4 & 5,” “Silent Night, Bloody Night 2,” and he is Editor of “Sleepaway Camp IV.” Dustin has also produced and directed over 80 music videos, and has contracted with Wild Eye Releasing to produce and direct four films in 2018.
Filmmaker Dustin Ferguson and Dawna Lee Heising on the set of Nemesis 5
LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Sept. 29, 2017) — The Hollywood Press Corps recently got a chance to speak to musical artist Heather LaRose. Earlier this month, Heather dropped a new track on all platforms called Mixtape. Mixtape is pop music with a synth/electronic music backdrop. This is fun music that you might listen to at the gym or while driving your car. It’s been about two years since Heathers project “Beachside” came out. We wanted to ask her about her latest project called “Mixtape” and see what she’s been up to lately.
Heather LaRose. Photo by Martin Mendez
Hollywood Press Corps (HPC); Could you tell us a little about Mixtape? How did you select this song for your latest musical release?
(HLR); I wrote Mixtape after my ex liked a photo of mine on Facebook, and then obsessively played a mix CD he made me the summer before. I’ve been writing a lot of new material about so many different experiences and feelings, but Mixtape just felt like the song I wanted to listen to right now. It’s my summer jam: high-energy and optimistic, admittedly a little “extra,” but that’s just who I am!
(HPC); Could you tell us what genre of music Mixtape falls into, in your opinion.
I’d say it’s a modern “Top 40” style pop song, with a slight mix of tropical house. Mixtape differs from my previous record, Beachside in many ways. It still has those recognizable Heather LaRose pop melodies and singalong choruses, but now I know myself a lot better and am writing with a totally confident mentality, which I think really comes through in the music.
(HPC); What’s your songwriting process like? How do you come up with an idea and then record it in the studio?
(HLR); I always seem to get the best new song ideas while I’m driving… there’s something about driving that really frees up your mind – feeling that breeze rushing through your hair while the sun is shining? It’s definitely different every time though: with Mixtape it all started from the moment I got that notification on Facebook, and I just locked myself in my room all day until I finished it. Other times, the chorus or verse will pop into my head and the rest of the song will come to me later. I’m very inspiration driven, and I like to essentially allow the song to write itself.
(HPC); What was it like to work with MTV on your song “New Moon” which was featured on MTV’s show “Teen Wolf”?
(HLR); Pure Teen Wolf magic! I binge watched the third season, and then wrote “New Moon.” I was so honored to hear back from the Music Director and have New Moon featured in the fourth season! And then the Teen Wolf fans are so beautifully intense and interactive, and also gave me a huge boost. They have supported me so much in my career through listening to my music and coming to my shows. I love meeting them at my concerts – they always make really cool posters, it’s awesome!
Bi-coastal Heather LaRose glamming it up on the West Coast(Best Coast). Photo by Pearl and Ash
(HPC); You started in New York’s Westchester area, and now you’re in Los Angeles. What was the transition like?
(HLR); LA is the anti New York, so it’s really funny being out here. People’s personalities are a total 180 from the New York crowd, but I love the artistic community and support here. We all lift each other up and are each other’s friends and fans. It has made the transition much easier knowing I have families on both coasts!
(HPC); Do you have a favorite coast? West coast or East coast?
(HLR); West Coast is the best coast of course! But whenever I’m away from my NY homies I miss them like crazy, but we have these epic snap streaks that go on for months! However, my style of music is totally more West Coast, so it makes sense for me to be out here.
(HPC); Could you talk about your relationship with your mother? Did she help you get to where you are today?
(HLR); My mom is amazing! We are super close – she calls me at least once a day and we talk for hours. She and my father have been my biggest support system throughout my whole life. If I didn’t have their full support about my choices with my career, I would have nothing.
(HPC); It looks like you’ve become quite a social media influencer. How do you use your social media to promote your music?
(HLR); I started out my Instagram posting selfies and promoting shows, and it just expanded from there! My friends all say I talk too much, but I think that really helps with my Instagram account! I love meeting the people who reach out and like my posts. Just last week I met with a group of girls in Manhattan right before a fashion week event I was going to. We had plans to meet up for lunch but I got locked out of the apartment I was staying in so we met up at Union Square’s Forever 21 and they helped me pick out my Fashion Week outfit then grabbed some Chik-fil-A and ran over to the event. Over the years, I’ve become more deliberate about what I post and promote, but I will never stop talking to people who dig my music, fashion, and cool pictures!
Heather LaRose. Photo courtesy Fifth Member
(HPC); Is there any musician that you’ve worked with in the past that you learned a lot from?
(HLR); During High School and college at Lagond Music School, I studied with Darryl Tookes and Paul Maddison. They both helped mold and shape my career and taught me so much about performing and the music business.
(HPC); Is there a musician that you’re looking forward to working with in the future?
(HLR); I would love to produce a song with BloodPop – the remix they did for HAIM is amazing! I’m also super obsessed with Justin Beiber’s new tune “Friends.”
(HPC); You have so many interests and talents. You’re in music, and fashion. Any plans to start your own clothing line?
(HLR); Not just yet. But, I’m trying my hand in designing band merch, so I’m super excited to unveil new tees and maybe some more unexpected items…
(HPC); What’s one thing that would surprise people about you?
(HLR); Growing up I loved catching frogs in my backyard and use to pretend to be Steve Irwin (rip) so when I’m older and have a family I want to host a show on Animal Planet and travel the world teaching people about animals.
Thanks for taking your time to speak with us and our readers! Check out Mixtape on YouTube!
(HOLLYWOOD PRESS CORPS) — SEPTEMBER 17, 2017 —The 11th annual EcoLuxe Lounge Celebration was held at the Beverly Hilton’s Wilshire Gardens this Emmys weekend.
Celebrity guests at Ecoluxe included Gretchen Rossi, Allen Maldonado, Tara Reid, Bridgetta Tomarchio, Caitlin Carmichael, Dee Wallace-Stone, Donna Spangler,
Heather McComb, Renee Olstead, Slade Smiley and many more!
Gretchen Rossi on the red carpet
Debbie Durkin’s Ecoluxe honored 2017 Emmy nominees in support of Autism Changes. Autism changes is a non-profit foundation bringing awareness to autism communities around the world. Funds from the foundations are dedicated to inclusion programs offering behavioral and educational support for children. A new book on Autism has been released, Jose’s Journey to Acceptance by Author and founder of Autism Changes, Dennis Vanesse.
Nicole Murphy
Celebs and Creative-types enjoyed a brunch curated by Chef Alberico’s farm-to-table concept complete with champagne, while Dennis Miller kept the music spinning.
Tara Reid
During Eco Luxe Emmy weekend there were many beauty products featured including Zein Obagi. The brand featured its daily skin care products and Ossential pore refining treatments. ZO Skin Health develops and delivers innovative skincare solutions that optimize skin health based on the latest advances in skin therapy technologies. Through comprehensive skincare programs for physicians and their patients, ZO Skin Health, Inc. bridges the gap between therapeutic treatment and daily care.
Patrick Sabonqui
Some of the featured brands this year included Chariot Luggage, perfect for your next jet setting adventure! Chariot had many options for luggage including high-tech plastics in a variety of solids and prints. Although travel is important, looking great is too! Good thing many clothing and jewelry designers were on hand this Emmy’s weekend!
Actor Kim Estes (R)
A crowd favorite was Liv & B which specializes in using high quality gemstones, sterling silver, fine silver, and other metals to enhance the beauty behind every piece. Event goers received beautiful “Madeline” pearl earrings.
Excoluxe lounge by far had the best in beauty, food, and fun this Emmy season. Follow Press Pass LA for the latest in Emmy season coverage.
(HOLLYWOOD PRESS CORPS) September 16th, 2017 — The non profit horse sanctuary, known as Skydog Sanctuary, hosted a VIP event in Malibu that introduced their organization to Malibu and Los Angeles. They are raising awareness for their cause and reaching out for volunteers. Skydog Sanctuary is a non-profit organization that provides sanctuary for horses that have been neglected, abused or wound up in kill pens. Guests at the luxe event where invited meet some of the beautiful horses and come together for a good cause.
Rachel Hunter poses with one the beautiful horses from Skydog Sanctuary. Photo courtesy Ian Bailey
The afternoon was idyllic and relaxed. Wise BBQ provided delicious bites and refreshments. Actress Kyle Richards was on hand to support this philanthropic event. Kyle worked with the late Tobe Hooper on the movie Eaten Alive. Kyle is most recently featured on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Kyle attended with her daughter Portia Umansky and sister Kim Richards. Kim is also featured on the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Kim’s daughter Brooke also came to see the horses with her husband and son Hucksley. Rachel Hunter posed for photos with the horses that she knows so well from past visits to the ranch.
Kyle Richards (L) of RHOBH and her sister Kim Richards (R) from RHOBH. Photo courtesy Ian Bailey
Below Deck Mediterranean star Bobby Giancola and Ariana Madix from Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules walked into the event excited to meet the horses and animals. Ariana was seen filming the horses for her Instagram and also the tortoise. The party was put together by Skydog Sanctuary founder, Clare Staples-Read, who once again hosted a beautiful afternoon at the ranch.
Below Deck Mediterranean star Bobby Giancola (L) and Ariana Madix (R) from Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules
Skydog Sanctuary is a non profit organization that provides a rescue home to at-risk mustang horses in America. They have three locations in Malibu, CA, Calabasas, CA, and Bend, OR. Skydog is a forever home for wild horses providing sanctuary for mustangs that have wound up in kill pens, at auction, or being neglected, starved, or abused. Many of these horses are recused hours away from being shipped to slaughter in Mexico or Canada to be killed for their meat and served on foreign dinner plates.
Kids enjoying Malibu and the horses from Skydog Sanctuary. Photo courtesy Ian Bailey
Tragically every year over 150,000 American horses are sent to be inhumanely slaughtered and many of those are mustangs. Skydog Sanctuary’s biggest, most important mission is to shine a spotlight on the issues facing our wild horses while continuing to rescue as many as possible. By spreading awareness of the situation we can show how special, valuable, and unique these wild horse are and create pressure to find alternative solutions that don’t require unnecessary killing, or captivity, for these beautiful animals.
Visit Skydog Ranch for more information on donating or volunteering.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Artists For Trauma models Michael Kors at In Store Fashion Show at Macy’s Topanga
Sunday, September 17th from 2 pm -4 pm, Artists For Trauma (AFT) in conjunction with the upscale Macy’s Topanga and the noted Michael Kors line will present a fashion show with AFT adaptive models.
AFT Founder and President Laura Sharpe. Photo courtesy of Albert L. Ortega/Gettyimages
“These six chosen models are adored by their community and are not only gorgeous, but physically and mentally strong, having persevered through life challenges that most of us will never know.” – Laura T. Sharpe, Artists For Trauma Founder and CEO.
AFT model and celebrated actor Ford Austin and his wife Emmy award-winning producer Lauree Dash. Photo courtesy of Albert L. Ortega/GettyimagesAFT model and artist Richard Bell. Photo courtesy of Michael Bezjian/Gettyimages
WHO: Numerous celebrities and VIPs expected at this event such as Laura T. Sharpe, the founder of Artists for Trauma, AFT model and celebrated actor Ford Austin (Live By Night, Bosch), his wife, Emmy award-winning producer Lauree Dash (The Doctors, Access Hollywood), actress and fashion blogger Vida Ghaffari (The Mindy Project, Holy Terror, So Very Vida), noted filmmaker Massimiliano Cerchi (Mayday, The Night Shift), Chanel Ryan (The Late Late Show with James Cordon, Dead Sea) other AFT models such as noted artist Richard Bell, Tobias Forrest, actress Mia Schaikewitz (Push Girls), actress Vanessa Osman and Janelle Hinshaw. Also in attendance are actors James Cavlo (Raising Hope, Carly), Tatyana Figueiredo (Suicide Squad, The Business), Casey Burke (The Middle, 20th Cen- tury Women), Joey Lutheran (The Long Road Home, Modern Family), Kacey Fifield (Game Shakers, React to That), Siaki Si’l (Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Austin and Ally), Kiana Lyz Rivera (Major Crimes, The Immigrant), Kendall Monroe, Entertainment attorney Nadia Davari, Founder and CEO of The World Networks Lousine Karibian and Social Media Influencer Ilmar Molder.
AFT model and actress Vanessa OsmanAFT model and actress Mia Schaikewitz from Push Girls
WHEN: September 17th,
press check-in 12:30pm
red carpet 1-2pm fashion show 2-4
WHERE: Macy’s Topanga, 21900 Vanowen St, Canoga Park, CA 91304
PARKING: Free parking at Topanga MALL ATTIRE: Upscale Casual
Artists For Trauma, founded by trauma survivor Laura Sharpe in 2011, was inspired by her personal journey to recovery from life altering trauma. Sharpe connected with the world of art as a source of healing from her near-mortal wounds. AFT reveals and shares the blueprint of Sharpe’s astonishing re- covery to help other civilian and military trauma survivors positively reconnect with themselves, their families and their communities.
The AFT organization aims to expedite recovery through artistic expression and human connection, providing a creative portal to help patients process complex emotions, regain confidence and build self- acceptance after suffering a traumatic experience.
Macy’s, established in 1858, is the Great American Department Store – an iconic retailing brand over 740 stores operating coast-to-coast and online. Macy’s Westfield Topanga Plaza offers a first class se- lection of top fashion brands including Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Clinique, Estee Lauder & Levis. In addition to shoes and clothing, Macy’s has a wide variety of housewares, gifts and furniture.
Macy’s will also have a VIP sale that day from 2-4pm with an extra 30% off on designers that rarely go on sale and 15% off any beauty purchase with your Macy’s card.
Michael Kors is a world-renowned, award-winning designer of luxury accessories and ready-to-wear. His namesake company, established in 1981, currently produces a range of products under his signa- ture Michael Kors Collection and MICHAEL Michael Kors labels. These products include accessories, footwear, watches, jewelry, men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, eyewear and a full line of fragrance products.
On Saturday, August 26th, the Los Angeles Nollywood Film Awards (LANFA) will have their film awards ceremony and music festival at 8039 S Vermont Ave in Los Angeles and screen an international slate of films.
King Bassey, the founder of the Nollywood Awards
Numerous celebrities and VIPs expected at this event such as LANFA founder King Bassey, Honorees Mel Novak (Bruce Lee’s Game of Death, Check Point) and Dawna Lee Heising (Bladerunner, Samurai Cop 2: Deadly Vengeance), Special Guest noted radio host and media personality Mother Love, HPC’s own Vida G. (The Mindy Project, Holy Terror) as a presenter and Co-host Ford Austin (Live By Night, Bosch).
Press Check-in is at 4:30pm, with red carpet arrivals at 5-6:30pm, the much anticipated awards presentation at 6:30pm-9:30pm and the afterparty 9:30pmFree parking in the lot and lots of street parking. The attire will range from cocktail attire to black tie.
LANFA was created by King Bassey, who hails from Akwa Ibom, Nigeria. He has an associates degree in Electronic tech and micro computer from National Technical School and a Bachelors degree in Media Production at Intercontinental University Los Angeles. His concentration was in the area of directing, producing, editing, screenwriting and cinematography. After looking at the negative image and portrayal of Africans on Television, King Bassey became one of the first to start Afrikan Network Television on UHF channel in the early 90s, bringing programs from Africa to educate people about Africa, it was even featured in LA Times. After many years the station could not make it because of funding, King Bassey did not give up, he embarked on a song writing career. He has released about three albums, the most recent one, David Dance, and started organization called the Los Angeles Nollywood Film Association (LANFA). Lanfa’s goal is to provide a platform for our creative artists to produce and showcase the unique artistic abilities, increase the level of awareness in the community, promote the brand, strengthen and grow the credibility of the group. To also foster the creation of successful working partnerships, empower networking, raise visibility, and strengthen distribution and marketing channels. Every year, the festival screens Afrikan and other international films in August 24th -26th. He won several awards, best African singer and writer from the City of Los Angeles, Award for best Video Programming, Educational & Documentary, Media award for best photographer. He directed and produced his first films called Johno the Fake Producer, in 2007, his second film Undisciplined, about the way Parents raise their Children, and in 2010, he directed Queen In LA. Movie, About Human Trafficking. His latest film in the making now is called A Woman In A Man’s World, Multicultural Film creating awareness on Global Fight for violence against Women in work, Home and Church. starting campaign call LET’S GET OUR WOMEN BACK.
On Saturday, May 20th, legendary actors and martial artists Aki Aleong and Mel Novak will be inducted into the prestigious USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame at their gala in Fullerton, CA. This Hall of Fame was founded by Grandmaster Jim Thomas, Ph.D./D.Sc./Ma.Dsc.
Grandmaster Jim Thomas and Loretta Hallmark
Dr. Thomas is a 10th degree grand master and is recognized as one of 20 worldwide. He has been active in the martial arts field for over half a century. In addition to serving as the head coach for Team USA, he was inducted into 6 various martial arts ‘Hall of Fame’ institutions and listed in ‘Who’s – Who’ in the world of Martial Arts. Grandmaster Thomas has won over 200 awards and trophies and served in the U.S. Air Force for 7 years during the Vietnam Evacuation Era. He was a former athlete for the USA World Class Competition Team and has appeared in over 8 Martial Arts Motions pictures.
Sifu Mark Hoadley
The U.S.A. Martial Arts ‘Hall of Fame’ “Hall of Heroes” was originally created in 1976 by Grand Master Robert Trias, the first man to open a martial arts school in the U.S. In its beginning it was very small in nature and was done spontaneously at various Martial Arts functions. Grandmaster Thomas and Mike Day were called upon to orchestrate this function into what it is today. Even with the passing of Grandmaster Trias and Day, Thomas has kept this event alive himself and includes new exciting things each and every year! This event actually spans three days from May 19th to May 21st with seminars and classes and the gala being on the 20th. Celebrities in attendance at the gala are Kathy Long, Art Camacho, Olivier Gruner and many more. Martial Artist and stand-up comic Mark Hoadley will be opening the gala with his unique style of stand-up comedy. Sifu Hoadley is a 3 time Hall of Fame inductee and last year’s Alliance inductee. Mark frequently performs at The World Famous Comedy Store, The Ice House and the Clown House.
Awardees Aki Aleong and Mel Novak. Photo courtesy of Sheri Determan/PR Photos
Iconic martial artist Aki Aleong has starred in over 50 feature films and 150 TV shows. He has starred in films opposite the likes of Frank Sinatra Jr., Nick Nolte, Christian Slater, Marlon Brando, Faye Dunaway, Joanne Woodward, Ben Kingsley, Ernest Borgnine, Martin Landau, Roger Moore, Peter Lawford, Olivia Hussey, and Pierce Brosnan. He has served on the National Board of the Screen Actors Guild, appointed National Chair of SAG’S EEOC and was a member of the President’s Diversity/Affirmative Action Task Force.Aki’s legendary career started on Broadway in “Teahouse of the August Moon” and “The Interview.” He is probably best known for portraying Senator Hidoshi during the first season of Babylon 5, as well as portraying Mr. Chiang, the aide to Nathan Bates in the weekly series of V: The Series. He also portrayed the character of Colonel Mitamura in Farewell to the King and starred in Missing in Action Part 3 Opposite Chuck Norris and The Quest opposite Jean Claude Van Damme and Roger Moore. Aleong recently starred opposite Jean Claude Van Damme again in Pound of Flesh and just guest starred in an episode of the three time Peabody nominated Suspense show opposite Torohu Masamune (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles).
Aki on set with Danny Trejo
Martial arts legend Mel Novak is best known as the iconic Stick the Assassin in Bruce Lee’s final film Game of Death. He has starred in more than 60 feature films opposite the likes of icons such as Steve McQueen, Yul Brenner, Chuck Norris, David Carradine, Rosie O’Donnell, Dan Ackroyd and many others. He has been bestowed with numerous awards for his acting work as well as humanitarian awards. He has been volunteering on Skid Row for over 30 years and has counseled prisoners at the most dangerous prisons in the country and has also volunteered with the Special Olympics. More recently, he starred in Samurai Cop 2: Deadly Vengeance, #1 grossing indie martial arts action movie of 2015. Mel also starred in the recently released Sony Pictures’ Checkpoint, opposite William Forsythe, Bill Goldberg, Fred “The Hammer” Williamson and Kenny Johnson. Mel also starred in the much buzzed about Holy Terror opposite Kristine DeBell (Meatballs, The Big Brawl) and Vida Ghaffari (The Mindy Project, Jimmy Kimmel Live).
Mel on the set of Check Point with noted director Thomas J. Churchill and William Forsythe
