Showing posts with label Latino Theatre Company. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Latino Theatre Company. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Coming Up Next With LaFern Cusack on 710 ESPN Radio: EquestFest, The Rose Bowl Parade and Piccolo Chef

AIRING SUNDAY DECEMBER 12, 2010
The Experience with LaFern Cusack
Sunday, 5:00 am- 6:00am pst
710 ESPN Radio and Online:
http://es.pn/9Usbxx


LaFern Cusack speaks with Brian James, Jon Montgomery and Bill MacMullen about Equestfest presented by Wells Fargo December 29, 2010 and the The 122nd Rose Parade themed Building Dreams, Friendships & Memories will take place on Saturday, January 1, 2011 at 8:00 a.m.  For tickets and more information: http://www.tournamentofroses.com/

Equestfest 2010Up close and personal... Meet many of the Equestrians you will see New Year's Day in the 2011 Rose Parade! The is the best family equestrian event of the year. Don't miss it!


Watch in awe as these beautiful horses and talented riders perform drills and dances, and demonstrate trick riding and roping. It's the "wild west" brought to life! Stroll through the stables and talk to the riders. Learn about the various tack and the many different breeds. Take advantage of wonderful one-of-a-kind photo opportunities.

Enjoy ongoing performances, demonstrations and exhibits! There will also be great music as well as food and beverage concessions on site.

For the fourth consecutive year, RFD-TV will broadcast live coverage of "Equestfest 2010," an exciting show featuring the 2011 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade equestrian participants. The show will air live between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. PST (rain or shine) from the LA Equestrian Center's covered Equidome and surrounding areas. If you can't make it in person, be sure to watch it live on television!

The 122nd Rose Parade “Building Dreams, Friendships & Memories”
The 122nd Rose Parade themed “Building Dreams, Friendships & Memories”, will take place on Saturday, January 1, 2011 at 8:00 a.m. (PST) featuring spirited marching bands from throughout the nation, majestic floral floats, and high-stepping equestrian units.

2010 Rose Parade Theme Trophy Winner "New Life Rises"

The information in the website is provided as a guide and is based on data known at the time of distribution. All dates, times and prices are subject to change and you are encouraged to call the toll free Visitor Hotline, (877) 793-9911; the Visitors' Info line, (626) 449-ROSE; or contact the Tournament of Roses office, (626) 449-4100. The 122nd Rose Parade will be broadcast on ABC, Hallmark Channel, HGTV, KTLA (Tribune), NBC, RFD-TV and Univision. The Parade is also seen in more than 200 international territories and countries. To learn more, visit our Broadcast Partners page.

Grand Marshal of the 122nd Tournament of Roses
On October 26, 2010, Paula Deen was selected as the Grand Marshal of the 2011 Tournament of Roses. As Grand Marshal, Deen will preside over the 122nd Rose Parade presented by Honda and will toss the coin before the 97th Rose Bowl Game presented by VIZIO on New Year's Day, 2011. For tickets and more information: http://www.tournamentofroses.com/



 
Piccolo Chef
LaFern Cusack speaks with Co-Founders of Piccolo Chef Lilian Palmieri and Tina Fanelli Moraccini about how kids cook up nutritious and delicious meals in their cooking school especially made for them! http://piccolochef.com/

What is Piccolo Chef?

We’re a cooking school for kids – and their grownups – in Los Angeles. Our mission is delicious, nutritious cooking for kids and their grown-ups.

School lunches are largely not nutritious. In fact, Congress has just passed new legislation to address the problem. Local school districts are trying to solve the problem. And meanwhile, our families are under financial and time pressures that result in our children eating poorly – and that impacts all of us. Our health, our family life.

And by the way, we’re helping families to reignite the love in their kitchens. We grew up with mom cooking wonderful foods everyday – with pots simmering and great foods sauté-ing. Now so much of our meals come from fast food restaurants and microwave ovens – and we’re all feeling the health problems.

Why did you decide to create Piccolo Chef?
We’re both moms. We had young children. And we were concerned that our kids were getting bombarded with ads for fast food that was less-than-healthy. And as working moms, we were concerned about all of our friends in a similar boat. Stressed. No time. Financially challenged. With kids who were getting hooked on junk food. So we thought… what if we opened our own schools that focused on nutritious, delicious cooking for kids – and their grownups.

So how did you start?
Tina and Lilian were working together at the Italian Consulate in Los Angeles and decided to quit their jobs two years ago. Opened Piccolo Chef in Culver City in a rented space that had an organic garden and a kitchen where we could hold classes.

What was the reaction?
Moms and their kids loved it! And we were honored with the “BEST COOKING SCHOOL in L.A.” in L.A. Magazine and then LA Parent Magazine. Then “BEST BIRTHDAY PARTY” in LA Parent Magazine. Edible Los Angeles Magazine did a big feature story on Piccolo Chef. We were asked to be part of the “GOT MILK” campaign to talk about how to help moms with picky eaters. You want your kid to eat Broccoli? Come to Piccolo Chef. We showed children how to plant, prepare, cook and enjoy eating every kind of healthy and delicious food.

So much is being reported about what’s called “Dia-besity” among American children. Sounds like you’re helping in your own way to combat the unhealthy eating problems facing our families.
Absolutely. We’re very concerned about the problem – and working every day on the solution. Diabetes and Obesity in children have increased nearly 30 percent every decade for the past several decades. We need to teach our children how to eat healthy, how to appreciate the positive impact of whole foods on our bodies, and the discipline of wonderful cooking, food preparation, growing, - and LOVING what we eat.

So where does Piccolo Chef go from here?
Well… our classroom is exploding onto the Internet. From brick and mortar classes to everyone everywhere on the WEB with Piccolochef.com. Our new website goes up on Monday with wonderful webisodes - we call them momisodes – that are charming stories with celebrity guests all about healthy, delicious recipes that are simple to make for the family.
And our school is growing. We’re at Surfas in Culver City. And starting next month, we’ll be holding classes, camps and birthday parties at the Farmer’s Market Kitchen in Hollywood at Vine and Selma.
For more information on classes and how you can get involved: http://piccolochef.com/


 Did you miss last week?!  Check out the podcast!


AIRING 12/5/10 on 710 ESPN Radio LaFern Cusack (On-Air Personality/Producer Radio Disney AM 1110 / 710 ESPN Radio) speaks with Evelina Fernandez and Jose Luis Valenzuela of the Latino Theatre Company about their holiday production La Virgen de Guadalupe, Dios Inantzin taking place Thursday 12/09 7:30pm and Friday 12/10 7:30pm at Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels 555 W. Temple Street Los Angeles, CA 90012. General Admission Free! (Suggested Donation $5/person) Reserved Seating  $35/person.  For more information http://thelatc.org/




AIRING 12/12/10 on Radio Disney AM1110 LaFern Cusack (On-Air Personality/Producer Radio Disney AM 1110 / 710 ESPN Radio) speaks with (photo right) Gunnery Sergeant (ret.) James Baskin and (photo left) Sergeant Charles Sandoval U.S Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. support this worthy cause by donating new unwrapped gifts for children ages infant – 17 years.  All toys must be collected by December 16th. For more information on The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation toy drive, please visit http://www.toysfortots.org




AIRING 12/5/10 on Radio Disney AM1110 LaFern Cusack (On-Air Personality/Producer Radio Disney AM 1110 / 710 ESPN Radio) Speaks with the cast of Lythgoe Family Productions Presents "CINDERELLA" - A MODERN MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA IN THE STYLE OF A TRADITIONAL LONDON Christmas PANTO.  Freddie Stroma (Harry Potter) as Prince Charming, Veronica Dunne as Cinderella, LaFern Cusack, Bonnie Lythgoe, Director/Producer and Jennifer Leigh Warren as The Fairy Godmother. For more information and tickets for the production of CINDERELLA visit http://www.cinderellalivela.com



Saturday, October 2, 2010

Airing Sunday October 3rd: The SoCal Experience with LaFern Cusack on ESPN Radio Los Angeles

Southern California Experience with LaFern Cusack
710 ESPN Radio Los Angeles
Sunday's 5a-6a PST or online live:
http://es.pn/d5fqUI


THERE'S STILL TIME TO SEE  
as he performs for the 2nd Annual Golf For Literacy, October 4th, at the Malibu Country Club.  Come for the DINNER AND AUCTION! For more information about sponsorships or advertisement opportunities please call 800-366 1375 ext 4613 or go to: http://www.golfforliteracy.org/
Monday, October 4th, 2010



AIRING SUNDAY OCTOBER 3rd
David Lindholm, Communications Manager, Chivas USA (MLS) speaks with LaFern Cusack about Chivas USA's support and dedication to the community, the SuperClasico and the energy that is rocking the Home Depot Center Sunday October 3 at 5:00pm. Chivas USA takes pride in supporting schools, non-profit organizations, and charitable groups.  Founded on August 2, 2004, as Major League Soccer's then-eleventh team, Los Angeles-based Club Deportivo Chivas USA has achieved remarkable success in their first few seasons of MLS play. Based at The Home Depot Center - a world-class soccer stadium and multi-sport facility located on the campus of California State University, Dominguez Hills in the city of Carson, Los Angeles County, California. Chivas USA invites all fans, players and supporters to celebrate the passion of the world's greatest sport. Additional information on Chivas USA is available by calling 1-877-CHIVAS-1 (244-8271).  For tickets and more information: http://www.cdchivasusa.com/


Cindy Laverty, author of “Caregiving – Eldercare Made Clear & Simple” speaks with LaFern Cusack about caring for her ill and aging former father-in-law for several years.   Cindy Laverty discovered that compassionate caregiving was her true calling and formed The Care Company, a southern California-based home care provider.

Today, as a leading spokesperson for the industry, Ms. Laverty has expanded her commitment to helping caregivers help others, through her entertaining, educational and insightful advice driven radio show. Her warm, yet practical approach to the process of caregiving provides listeners with first step knowledge and resources they can use to manage their lives and those they care for more peacefully. 

The caregiving journey is one of life’s ultimate gifts, but if you don’t have a workable plan, you can easily become lost and overwhelmed. Caregiving – Eldercare Made Clear & Simple is a guide, which provides you with encouraging and practical information, as well as personal insight from Cindy Laverty’s own experiences about her journey to finally learn to care for herself, along with a CD of reprintable forms to help you create a workable plan for your unique situation. http://www.cindylavertyshow.com/  

Evelina Fernandez and Jose Luis Valenzuela speaks with LaFern Cusack about the Latino Theater Company’s 25th Anniversary production of "La Victima." The Latino Theater Company proudly presents its 25th Anniversary production, a revival of its very first show, “La Victima.”

It’s a story that spans four decades, telling the tale of two families, the Villas and the Mendozas. It begins during the Great Depression and continues through later troubled economic times. Immigrant families come to the U.S.A. to relieve the suffering of chronic poverty, to find employment, to work hard, to become educated, to fall in love, to get married, to build new homes and better lives for their loved ones. Some people arriving here do so through the established legal channels. Some get to the U.S.A. through alternate means.


Mexicans and Mexican-Americans find themselves in demand in the U.S. as a source of cheap, exploitable labor. But they find that they do not enjoy the same working conditions and job security as their neighbors. When the Latinos try to organize into unions to secure workers’ rights, they find themselves subject to reprisals, including deportation.

Some join the military, conjecturing that this may be a route to equality, though a disproportionate segment of their number emerge as casualties.  Most devastating to the Villa and Mendoza families is the inconsistently applied, inhumane immigration policy. It becomes even more apparent after one of their number becomes a U.S. government immigration enforcement agent.  At this point in the history of the U.S., immigration is still a hot-button issue, with certain political factions calling for the repeal of the 14th Amendment, which guarantees citizenship rights to those born on U.S. soil. Originally created in 1976 by the theater collective El Teatro De La Esperanza, “La Victima” couldn’t possibly be more timely.

Jose Luis Valenzuela, artistic director of the Latino Theater Company, directs the new production in the trademark Latino Theater Company style, infusing serious material with humor, music and big dance numbers. The show stars longtime company members J Ed Araiza, Evelina Fernandez, Sal Lopez, Lupe Ontiveros, Geoffrey Rivas and Lucy Rodriguez and also Luis Aldana, Alexia de la Rocha, Olivia Cristina Delgaro and Oliver Rayon. Choreography: Urbanie Lucero. Musicians: Cita, and Ricardo Ochoa. The action of the show includes scenes set in both the U.S.A. and Mexico. Consequently, while much of the show is in English, there will also be sequences performed in Spanish (and also Spanglish). The songs will also be performed in Spanish. Spanish sequences will be accompanied by English supertitles. The compelling immediacy of the subject matter contradicts the notion that this is not a brand-new work. That is how it is. WHERE: Los Angeles Theatre Center, in its 318-seat Theatre 3, 514 S. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90013. WHEN: Runs through Sunday, October 31. Thurs. -  Sat. at 8, Sun. at 3. Dark on October 9. ADMISSION: $35. Seniors (60+) and students (with I.D.), $20. All Thursday performances $10. Preview on Oct 1; all seats $15. RESERVATIONS: Call toll-free, (866) 811-4111. GROUP SALES: (213) 489-0994 ext. 107. ONLINE TICKETING: www.thelatc.org

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AIRING SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10th
Ben Guillory and Kimba Henderson speak with LaFern Cusack about “The Reckoning” World Premiere engagement of a new play.  Fresh from the announcement of its seven nominations for the NAACP Theatre Awards, the Robey Theatre Company presents a World Premiere play, “The Reckoning.”  “The Reckoning” was developed through the Robey Theatre Company Playwrights Program.  Robey Theatre Company is Los Angeles’ acclaimed African-American theatre company, presenting plays providing insight to the global Black experience. It was founded by Danny Glover and Ben Guillory.   

Kimba Henderson is the playwright. A graduate of NYU Tisch School of the Arts, she received fellowships from a Bill Cosby –sponsored Screenwriting Program and Paramount Pictures. Her previous plays include “Love Supreme” and “Women on the Verge.” She co-wrote the film “Last Call.” Ms. Henderson was associate producer of the Fountain Theater’s award-winning production of “YellowMan.”

Ben Guillory, the Robey Theatre Company’s Artistic Director, helms a cast that includes Terese Aiello, Dorian Christian Baucum, Tiffany Boone, Michael Harrity, Tanya Lane, Tarnue Massaquoi, Alex Morris, Toyin Moses, Kendrick Sampson and Jacob Sidney. Production stage manager: John Freeland, Jr. Costume design: Naila Aladdin Sanders. Sound design: Harry Lennix. Dramaturge: Dylan Southard.  Set design: John Paul Luckenback. Playwrights Program Instructor: Aaron Henne.Technical director: R. Scott Thompson.
WHAT: “The Reckoning.” World Premiere engagement of a new play.  WHO: Written by Kimba Henderson. Directed by Ben Guillory. Produced by the Robey Theatre Company in association with the Los Angeles Theatre Center.  WHERE: Los Angeles Theatre Center; Theatre #2; 514 So. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90013. WHEN: Runs through Sunday, October 24. Regular show times: Thurs.- Sat. at 8, Sun. at 3. Dark on Oct. 9. ADMISSION: $30. Students: $20. Previews: $15. A limited number of tickets will be available for each Thursday performance for $10. RESERVATIONS: Call toll-free, (866) 811-4111. GROUP SALES: (213) 489-0994 ext. 107. ONLINE TICKETING:
www.thelatc.org  or http://robeytheatrecompany.com/

  
James Delay is Vice President of American Exhibitions, Inc., and speaks with LaFern Cusack about Mummies of the World which is a highly distinguished project that has been years in the making for AEI, working with 15 world-renowned museums in seven countries to bring to the U.S. a never-before-seen collection of mummies and related artifacts from South America, Europe, Asia, Oceania, and Egypt. Its treasures include one of the oldest mummy infants ever discovered; a mummified family; a German nobleman discovered in the family crypt by descendants; and intentionally preserved Egyptian animal mummies. 

Delay is responsible for the company’s business development and operations. A veteran sales and marketing professional, he is also in charge of maintaining communications with museums, science centers, licensors and the American Exhibitions team of curators, scientists, designers and associates.Delay’s work has resulted in Mummies of the World, the largest traveling exhibition of mummies and related artifacts ever assembled, debuting in Los Angeles at the California Science Center on July 1, 2010.

Delay began researching this exhibition in 2007, following the German Mummy Project’s amazing rediscovery of 20 mummies within the Reiss-Engelhorn Museums (REM) in Mannheim, Germany.  He visited the REM in 2008, hoping to bring that extraordinary find to American audiences, and embarked on an amazing journey that culminates with the Mummies of the World premiere.  After Los Angeles, the exhibition will travel to several other major U.S. cities over the course of its three-year engagement.

For Delay, the real measure of success for this groundbreaking exhibition is the opportunity it represents for audiences to learn about history and culture, and to use modern science tools to bring the past and the modern day a little closer together.  The stories of these mummies are both unique and universal, and this exhibition brings their experiences of centuries ago into the present. He believes that this project is the most spectacular and important project of his career to date.  Delay was born in Huntington Station, N.Y., and resides in Boynton Beach, Fla.  Mummies of the World is a ticketed event and requires a timed-entry. Advance reservations are highly recommended. Tickets can be purchased online at
www.californiasciencecenter.org  or by calling 323-SCIENCE (323-724-3623). 


 LOS ANGELES--The Mummies of the World exhibition, at the California Science Center in Los Angeles, welcomed its milestone 100,000th visitor on Thursday, Aug. 19, 2010 - making it one of the most successful paid exhibit openings in the Science Centers 13-year history. The exhibition, which opened July 1, is open daily for a limited engagement. http://www.californiasciencecenter.org . James Medrano of Pomona, Calif., was notified of the benchmark achievement by California Science Center president Jeff Rudolph and Michael McDowell, Senior Director for Cultural Tourism for LA INC., the Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau. Pictured from left: Medrano's daughter, Camille Medrano, 15; Michael McDowell, Senior Director for Cultural Tourism for LA INC.; cousin Adrian Guerrero, 10; James Medrano; Medrano's son, Aiden, 11; and Jeff Rudolph, president, California Science Center.






LOS ANGELES --  James Medrano (pictured left) of Pomona, Calif., was notified of the benchmark achievement by California Science Center president Jeff Rudolph and Michael McDowell, Senior Director for Cultural Tourism for LA INC., the Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau







James Medrano of Pomona, Calif., was notified of the benchmark achievement by California Science Center president Jeff Rudolph and Michael McDowell, Senior Director for Cultural Tourism for LA Inc., the Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau. Medrano and his family were given an exclusive guided tour of the exhibition by William Harris, the Science Centers vice president of development. Pictured from left: William Harris, vice president of development, California Science Center; family members and James Medrano, visitor number 100,000.  The exhibition, which opened July 1, is open daily for a limited engagement. http://www.californiasciencecenter.org

Saturday, May 8, 2010

LaFern Cusack: UNCF, Bikers Against Cancer and the Cordelia Knott Wellness Foundation on 710 ESPN Radio

Southern California Experience with LaFern Cusack
710 ESPN Radio Los Angeles
Sunday, May 9, 2010 (5a-6a PST)
Click Here To Listen Online: ESPN Los Angeles.com
 
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Curtis R. Silvers, Jr, Area Development Director, UNCF
28th Annual UNCF Los Angeles Walk for Education on May 15, 2010.

UNCF envisions a nation where all Americans have equal access to a college education that prepares them for rich intellectual lives, competitive and fulfilling careers, engaged citizenship and service to our nation. 

UNCF's mission is to build a robust and nationally-recognized pipeline of under-represented students who, because of UNCF support, become highly-qualified college graduates and to ensure that our network of member institutions is a respected model of best practice in moving students to and through college.

28TH ANNUAL LOS ANGELES WALK FOR EDUCATION
The 28th Annual Los Angeles Walk for Education has become one of the most anticipated fund raising events amongst corporate employees, family and friends, in the Greater Los Angeles area. The event is developed to help keep the Los Angeles community informed about the tremendous effort of UNCF to support its 39 member institutions, while also generating resources for the students that attend them. Corporate citizens of the "City of Angels" understand the importance of "giving back". Many are proud alumni of one of the 39 HBCU’s supported by UNCF, and look forward each year to do something measurably tangible to support the institutions that given many of them their beginning. The training, tools and skills they’ve acquired, have help many to reach some of their lifes’ goals; helping their families, being a productive corporate citizen, corporate management and an affluent lifestyle.

The 28th Annual Los Angeles Walk For Education 2010 will commence at Exposition Park, beginning at 8:00 A.M. on Saturday, May 15, 2010. 
Register Today: http://give.uncf.org/lawalk or contact the
Southern California area office at 213.639.3800

UNCF, Los Angeles area office is grateful to all of its sponsors, volunteers and participants for making this event a success each and every year. We know that you’ll agree with us that we are poised for an even greater success this year than any other year in the past! This is wholly due to the tremendous outpouring of support coming from our giving community here in the Greater Los Angeles area. UNCF is a tax exempt 501(c)(3) organization and your donation is tax deductible as a charitable contribution to the fullest extent of the law
(Photo right by United Negro College Fund).

Curtis R. Silvers, Jr is a native of Philadelphia. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Virginia.  His area of responsibility as Area Development Manager of UNCF includes the Los Angeles area, Orange County, Inland Valley, Arizona and Nevada. He supervises initiatives in support of the UNCF's member colleges and universities.

As a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Silvers has been actively involved with education. Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. is an international organization founded on the campus of Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana on January 5, 1911. Since its inception, it has trained over 125,000 men, particularly undergraduates, for leadership roles in their communities and the attainment of a high degree of excellence in their academic pursuits. The International Headquarters is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

UNCF, with 39 member colleges and universities, is America’s oldest, largest, most successful and most comprehensive minority higher education assistance organization. UNCF provides 400 different scholarships and supports students attending over 900 colleges and universities throughout the country. Today’s UNCF students are attending college at a time when higher education is becoming less affordable. More than 90% of UNCF students need some form of financial aid. Most UNCF students come from disadvantaged families; 60% have family incomes of less than $30,000 and 60% are the first in their families to attend college. Remember, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste”®.

The UNCF offices are located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd in Los Angeles. You may also contact their offices at: 213.639.3800 or http://www.uncf.org/

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Geri Musgrave and Larry Serna - The 5th Annual BIKERS AGAINST CANCER Poker Ride for the benefit of the Cordelia Knott Wellness Foundation, Sunday, May 16th.
The 5th Annual BIKERS AGAINST CANCER Poker Ride for the benefit of the Cordelia Knott Wellness Foundation will begin on Sunday, May 16 at 8:00 a.m. with biker registration at Anaheim/Fullerton Harley-Davidson. At NOON the Poker Ride’s last stop will be the ALL STAR JAM BAND CONCERT at Irvine Lake on Santiago Canyon Road in Silverado.
The Cordelia Knott Wellness Foundation is dedicated to the support of cancer patients and committed to educating the community on the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
Since 2002, the Cordelia Knott Wellness Foundation has assisted over 20,000 cancer patients and their families. They provide support with emergency financial aid grants, support groups, and caregiver and wellness seminars. They sponsor the Moretti Family Resource Library, offering more than 5,000 books, CDs, and DVDs on cancer and wellness. Irene's Shop on Main offers pre and post-surgery items and many unique gifts. (Photo left: Larry Serna and Geri Musgrave.)

Dan Plinski, a eight-year survivor of prostate cancer and a motorcycle enthusiast, started working on the Bikers Against Cancer ride five years ago.  He wanted to give back by giving grants to those who are too sick to work and they can continue chemotherapy or radiation.
Geri Musgrave is a Breast Cancer Survivor 10 years and Board Secretary for the Cordelia Knott Wellness Foundation.  She started off as a Volunteer at CKWF 10 years typing names into database 4 hours a week. Now Geri is a full time employee, board member and works in the library.

A diagnosis of cancer or other serious illness raises many questions for patients and those who care for them. The Moretti Family Resource Library is open to the public and has the largest collection of materials on cancer and wellness in Orange County. The library includes a comprehensive collection of books, CDs, DVDs, videotapes, audiotapes, pamphlets and articles that offer up-to-date medical, emotional, and spiritual support.

The following support groups and programs at the center:
  • Wellness Retreat
  • Breast Cancer Support Group
  • Kids Konnected
  • Lymphedema Support Group
  • Spanish-speaking Cancer Support
  • Look Good, Feel Better
  • WomanSage Transitions
Larry Serna is a Committee member for Bikers Against Cancer Ride and he also lost his mother to cancer so this cause is very close to his heart.  Larry is President for American Metal, which was developed as a recreational riding group offering motorcycle benefits and services to American V-Twin motorcycle enthusiasts and to develop close relationships between riders, sponsors, the local community and various charitable organizations. Serna also serves as Advertising Manager for Quick Throttle® Magazine which is a FREE monthly magazine that focuses on all aspects of the motorcycle riding community; covering local stories and related events.


Breast cancer happens to men also. About 1% of men will be diagnosed self exam is for both sexes and is a definite advantage. Dr. Susan Love’s Breast Book has a section or you can google “male breast cancer” and get any number of websites. Treatment would be similar.

The local biking community and their friends and families have been an incredible help each year, raising funds to support our projects...and, we also have fun!



Registration for Orange County's 2010 Bikers Against Cancer Poker Ride
  • 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Anaheim/Fullerton Harley-Davidson.
  • 1st Poker Stop: Anaheim/Fullerton Harley-Davidson, 2635 W. Orangethorpe, Fullerton
  • 2nd Poker Stop: Mission Motor Sports, 1 Doppler, Irvine
  • 3rd Poker Stop: Orange County Harley-Davidson, 8677 Research Drive, Irvine
  • 4th Poker Stop: Cook's Corner, Santiago Canyon/El Toro; Live Oak, Trabuco Canyon
  • 5th Poker Stop: GATE OPENS AT NOON
  • Irvine Lake in Silverado Canyon for an ALL STAR JAM BAND
  • Enjoy the music of: ROUGH HOUSE (with us all 5 years!)
And our Rockin' ALL STAR JAM BAND Members:
  • Chris Slade (AC/DC)
  • Keri Kelly (Alice Cooper)
  • Robbie Crane (Ratt)
  • Teddy ZigZag (Guns and Roses)
  • Robin McAuley (Survivor)

Enjoy the great outdoors, music, dancing, food, drink, vendors, and prizes. Please join us and celebrate this event -- you will make a difference in someones life!



For more information or to register go to: http://www.ckwellnesscenter.org/  or call 714.541-9355




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AIRING NEXT WEEK, MAY 16, 2010
The Second Annual Hillsides Foster Soles in Los Angeles- Online Celebrity Auction Runs From May 4 to May 20.
Joseph Costa, CEO of Hillsides, Marisol Barrios, Director of Communications of Hillsides and Michel Schneider, Executive Director of Clothes Off Our Back Foundation

Celebrating 97 years, Hillsides is a Los Angeles County foster care children’s charity that creates safe places, provides comprehensive treatment, mental health support, special education, and advocates for children’s rights. Hillsides is hosting Foster Soles to raise awareness of the various paths foster care children have travelled and empower the public to take action. (Photo left: Marisol Barrios, Joseph Costa and Michel Schneider.)

Foster Soles is an ongoing online auction of celebrity autographed shoes that aims to raise awareness of foster care issues, benefit children’s programs and services to help them transition to adulthood, and empower people to demonstrate their compassion to children at risk and youths who are in crisis.  With the aim of also raising awareness of foster care issues during Foster Care Awareness Month in May, the online auction has already drawn the attention of many celebrities and their autographed shoes.

The Clothes Off Our Back Foundation is a 501c3 organization that hosts charity auctions showcasing today's hottest celebrity attire. Items are put up for bid to the public with proceeds going to benefit children's charities. Clothes Off Our Back was founded by actors and philanthropists Jane Kaczmarek ("Malcolm In The Middle," "Raising the Bar") and Bradley Whitford ("The West Wing," "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip") whose efforts, along with their celebrity and designer friends have helped improve the lives of children across the globe.  For more information go to: http://www.clothesoffourback.org/ 
  



Hillsides has always created safe places for children; strengthened families, provided special education; and advocated for children’s rights.  Children in residence, who are in foster care or suffer from mental health needs, are referred to Hillsides by the Dependency Division of the Los Angeles Superior Court and the Department of Mental Health. Although they come from all over Southern California and encompass every ethnic and socioeconomic group, they share a common experience - the emotional scars that result from child abuse. With counseling and mental health treatment, children at Hillsides learn that they are not alone, that they are safe and cared for through. Six programs constitute the framework for Hillsides treatment services-Residential Treatment, the Education Center, the Family Center, and Advocacy. 
Hillsides:
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AIRING NEXT WEEK, MAY 16, 2010

Sanitation Open House Events
Commissioner Cynthia Ruiz, President, Board of Public Works City of Los Angeles; Lloyd Gaines, Superintendent, Bureau of Sanitation City of Los Angeles and eleven year old Nikki David of Laurel Hall School in North Hollywood

Open House Events are when the City’s six refuse yards open their doors to the public to serve family fun, food and prizes for kids. It’s a great family learning event. Its purpose really is to bond with the community and to help educate children about recycling and the City’s environmental programs while making it fun. (Photo left Cynthia Ruiz, LaFern Cusack, Lloyd Gaines, Jackie David. Front row:  Nikki David)

The Bureau of Sanitation is hosting a series of Open Houses at your local district refuse yard on specific Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Come join the dynamic duo “Mr. Recycle” and sidekick “Robo Blue” as they jump into action to serve family fun, food and prizes for kids.

Open Houses:
  • May 1, 2010 - East Valley District Yard
  • May 15, 2010 - West Valley District Yard
  • May 22, 2010 - North Central District Yard
  • June 5, 2010 - South Los Angeles District Yard
  • June 12, 2010 - Harbor District Yard
  • June 26, 2010 - West Los Angeles District Yard More info: http://www.lacitysan.org/
There are many kids out there who are intrigued, for example, with how our refuse trucks work. At our Open House events, kids will not only get to see how they work, they’ll get to sit in the driver’s seat and explore. This gives both kids and adults an appreciation for the trucks that come to their homes once a week.

Radio Disney’s Rocking Road Crew will also be at our Open Houses where they’ll share music, dance, games and great prizes. Mascots, Mr. Recycle, Octopus and the talking Blue Bin Robot will also be there to greet kids. It’s really about bringing the community together.

Open houses, budget allowing, are part of what the Bureau of Sanitation brings to the community every year. It began in 2003 and has grown in popularity over the years. City employees at these events all volunteer their time, energy and talent to make it happen for the community.

To date, the City of Los Angeles has achieved a 65% diversion rate citywide – that means that L.A. is ranked top recycler among the nation’s 10 largest cities. That’s because of what we all, as residents and businesses, do in L.A. Still, we can better. For example, when we recycle, we need to pay close attention to what we place in the blue bin. Dirty or soiled material doesn’t belong in the blue bin because it contaminates the rest of the recyclables.

Nikki David: "I think that if you don’t get kids involved, you’ll fail. This is our world too. We like to know that we can do something to take care of our world – like taking care of pets – all it takes is time to think about it and attend to it. Also, the earth belongs to our pets and other animals. The movies “Oceans” shows what happens to our oceans and sea life when we don’t take the time to care. I mean, there’s a shopping cart sitting at the bottom of the ocean and it’s really ugly. Animals get hurt all the time – just because we’re careless with our world."  Bureau of Sanitation Blog


Other Programs:
  • Multi-Family Recycling Program
  • Battery Recycling Program
  • Free Bulky Item Pickup Program
  • S.A.F.E. Centers
  • Recycle Rewards Pilot Program
  • Restaurant & Food Waste Recycling
  • Free mulch program
  • Rainwater Harvesting Program
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AIRING NEXT WEEK, MAY 16, 2010

Latino Theater Company's Jose Luis Valenzuela and Evelina Fernandez - "Dementia"

"Dementia" is a play written by Evelina Fernandez. Directed by Jose Luis Valenzuela. Choreographed by Urbanie Lucero. Produced by Latino Theater Company at the Los Angeles Theatre Center, in its 320-seat Theatre 3, 514 S. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90013. This play has adult themes. For audiences 16 and older. For tickets and more information please go to: http://www.thelatc.org/
In 2003, the Latino Theater Company’s production, Dementia, garnered the prestigious GLAAD Award for Outstanding Theater Production in Los Angeles as well as four Ovation Award nominations in the mid-size theater category. In the same year, the Latino Theater Company incorporated 21 young theater artists to form the Latino Theater Lab. The Latino Theater Lab presented two works: the movement piece War, in 2003, and Melancholia, in 2005.

The Latino Theater Company has demonstrated over 23 years of commitment to creating and producing some of the most exciting main stage theater in the Los Angeles area. Founded in 1985 by current Artistic Director, Jose Luis Valenzuela, under the auspices of the former Los Angeles Theatre Center, and known then as the Latino Theater Lab, the company began its legacy of producing memorable work. Examples include: August 29th, Stone Wedding, Roosters, The Promise, La Victima, and Noche de Risa y Susto or Die Laughing, a Day of the Dead fundraising celebration. The Company also created the New Voices Playwriting Series that commissioned many playwrights including Octavio Solis, Jimmy Santiago Baca, Cherrie Moraga, and Milcha Sanchez-Scott.


Director Jose Luis Valenzuela is the Artistic Director of the Latino Theater Company and a Professor at UCLA’s MFA Directing program. His amazingly prolific career includes credits both in Europe (“Peer Gynt,” “Kiss of the Spider Woman”) and the U.S. (the stage and screen versions of “Luminarias” and “How Else Am I Supposed to Know I’m Still Alive?”; collaborations with Culture Clash including “Carpa Clash,” “Radio Mambo,” “A Bowl of Beings,’ the last of which was also filmed for PBS ‘ Great Performances; “Melancholia,” “Bandido!,” “Hijos,” “Solitude,” “August 29th,” “La Victima,” “Roosters,” “The Promise,” and so much more).

Playwright Evelina Fernandez is a Humanitas finalist and scripted the Latino Theater Company’s famed annual Christmas pageant, La Virgen De Guadalupe, Dios Inantzin,” as well as the recent acclaimed hit “Solitude,” an L.A. Times Critic’s Choice. Several of her other plays also transitioned to film including “Luminarias,” and “Premeditation.” Also an actor, she has had recurring roles on several TV series, including “Roseanne,” “Judging Amy,” and “City of Angels.”

The cast of the new production of “Dementia” includes, in alphabetical order, Ralph Cole Jr., Danny De La Paz, Evelina Fernandez, Esperanza America Ibarra, Sal Lopez, Geoffrey Rivas and Lucy Rodriguez.

Most shows by the Latino Theater Company include big dance numbers. This one is no exception. Choreography is by Urbanie Lucero.

Set design: Christopher Ash. Lighting design: Francois Pierre Couture. Sound: John Zalewski. Costumes: Nikki Delhomme. Stage manager: Henry “Heno” Fernandez.

You are invited to join Moe’s party at “Dementia.” There’s some sadness, but lots of joy. Just like life.  More Info: www.thelatc.org  


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LaFern Cusack currently produces and hosts 710 ESPN's Experience (Sun. 5a-6a) and Radio Disney AM1110 Playground (Sun 6:30a-7a). With these shows LaFern delivers an inspiring, dynamic and insightful experience to listeners. She brings her humor, warmth and talent for tackling topical community issues with her unique style connecting with every aspect of the show.
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Saturday, March 20, 2010

Coming Up Next: LaFern speaks with Oscar ® nominated actor James Cromwell about the "The Einstein Plan," Brad Spellberg, MD on his new book "Rising Plague" and more community leaders!

Airing this Sunday, March 21, 2010
-710 ESPN Los Angeles - 5am-6am (PST)
-Radio Disney AM1110 - 6:30am-7am (PST)

Listen online here:
http://bit.ly/aABxWF  

Sometimes you just can't seem to get up in the morning, and you miss LaFern -Download podcasts here...



James Cromwell Stars As The Exile in "The Einstein Plan" by Donald Freed on stage March 27 & 28 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center.
The Einstein Plan is an interactive play by Donald Freed that asks, How can we change America? There's big power in small numbers when the audience answers together. Albert Einstein figured out that if only 2% of our population engages in non-violent protests, change will happen.  Tickets are available for purchase by calling 213-489-0994 ext. 107 or online at http://www.theeinsteinplan.com/

James Cromwell
Born in Los Angeles, actor and activist James Cromwell is the son of actress Kay Johnson and John Cromwell, a blacklisted director who served as one of the first presidents of the Director's Guild. His stepmother, Ruth Nelson was a noted stage and film actress and a founding member of the New York Group Theater. He followed in the family footsteps, heading to the south after the Freedom Rides to join the Free Southern Theater; an integrated company that toured the south. He was also a member of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee and in the seventies, joined the Committee to Defend the Panthers, an organization set up to defend The Panther 13. James has directed at resident theatres across the country and was the founder and Artistic Director of his own company, Stage West, in Springfield, Massachusetts. He also co-directed a short film, which was shown at the London Film Festival. After returning to Hollywood, James received a Best Supporting Actor Oscar ® nomination for his memorable performance as Farmer Hoggett in the smash-hit, “Babe.” Cromwell's recent motion picture work includes “L.A. Confidential,” “Space Cowboys,” Frank Darabont's critically acclaimed “The Green Mile,” “The General's Daughter,” “Snow Falling on Cedars,” “The Bachelor,” “The Sum of All Fears”, DreamWorks SKG's “Spirit: Stallion of The Cimarron,” Stephen Fears' Oscar ® nominated film “The Queen,” and Oliver Stone's “W.” He has earned Emmy nominations for his work on the HBO original series, “Six Feet Under,” the HBO movie, “RKO 281,” and the NBC drama, “ER.” Cromwell has also performed in many revered plays, including “Hamlet,” “The Iceman Cometh,” “Devil's Disciple,” “All's Well That Ends Well,” “Beckett” and “Othello” in many of the country's most distinguished theatres, including the South Coast Repertory, the Goodman Theatre, the Mark Taper Forum, the American Shakespeare Festival, Center Stage, the Long Wharf Theatre and the Old Globe. He recently played A. E. Houseman in the American premiere of Tom Stoppard's “The Invention of Love” at A.C.T. in San Francisco.
In addition to his work with countless charities, and initiatives, James has served as a board member for both S.A.G. and A.F.T.R.A. and as Secretary Treasurer of S.A.G. He has been collaborating on "The Einstein Plan" since its inception.

The Latino Theatre Company
The Los Angeles Theatre Center is a facility of the Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department and is operated by the Latino Theater Company.  The Latino Theater Company has demonstrated over 23 years of commitment to creating and producing some of the most exciting main stage theater in the Los Angeles area. Founded in 1985 by current Artistic Director, Jose Luis Valenzuela, under the auspices of the former Los Angeles Theatre Center, and known then as the Latino Theater Lab, the company began its legacy of producing memorable work.
Los Angeles Theatre Center (LATC), provides a world-class arts center for those pursuing artistic excellence; a laboratory where both tradition and innovation are honored and honed; a place where the convergence of people, cultures, and ideas contribute to the future.  For tickets or more information: http://thelatc.org/


Brad Spellberg, MD  discusses his new book "Rising Plague,"  the global threat from deadly bacteria, "dirty hospitals" and the virtual collapse of antibiotic research and development.
Brad Spellberg, MD (Los Angeles, CA) is associate professor of medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and is based in the Divisions of General Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases at the Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. He was featured on an Emmy-award- winning episode of NOVA called "Rise of the Superbugs." He is the author (with Carlos Ayala, MD) of the popular Boards and Wards series of medical review books (Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins).

Synopsis: Foreword by David Gilbert, MDPast President of the Infectious Diseases Society of America-
Antibiotic-resistant microbes infect more than 2 million Americans and kill over 100,000 each year. They spread rapidly, even in such seemingly harmless places as high school locker rooms, where they infect young athletes. And throughout the world, many more people are dying from these infections. Astoundingly, at the same time that antibiotic resistant infections are skyrocketing in incidence-creating a critical need for new antibiotics-research and development of new antibiotics has ground to a screeching halt!

In Rising Plague, Dr. Brad Spellberg-an infectious diseases specialist and member of a national task force charged with attacking antibiotic resistant infections-tells the story of this potentially grave public health crisis. The author shares true and very moving patient stories to emphasize the terrible frustration he and his colleagues have experienced while attempting to treat untreatable infections, not to mention the heart-break and tragedy that many of these patients' families had to endure.

Dr. Spellberg corrects the nearly universal misperception that physician misuse of antibiotics and "dirty hospitals" are responsible for causing antibiotic-resistant infections. He explains the true causes of antibiotic resistance and of the virtual collapse of antibiotic research and development. Most important, he advocates ways to reverse this dire trend and instead bolster the production of desperately needed new and effective antibiotics.

He also warns against complacency induced by the decades-old assumption that some miracle drug will always be available to ensurethe continuation of our "antibiotic era." If we do nothing, we run the risk of inviting a bleak future when infectious diseases will once again reign supreme. Then many of the medical breakthroughs that we now take for granted-from routine surgery and organ transplants to intensive care and battlefield medicine-might all be threatened.

This crucial and timely book is lucidly written in terms that everyone can understand. It issues a call to action, explaining how, through a strong and concerted effort, we can all help prevent this nightmare scenario from happening. By following this courageous doctor's recommendations, we can assure that magic bullets will be there for our families and us in the future.

How can you help stop antibiotic-resistant infections, like MRSA? 
Urge Congress to: Support Antibiotic Discover and Enact Antimicrobial Resistance Legislation

Spike Dolomite Ward, Tenth Annual Valley Wide Student Art Show, Sunday, March 21, at the Chatsworth Train Depot from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. 
Arts in Education Aid Council has been producing a valley wide art show every year in March to commemorate National Youth Art Month and to give the talented children of the San Fernando Valley a chance to be seen and appreciated by the public.

This single event has grown from a small, neighborhood show into an all day family arts festival featuring over 600 kids from throughout the Valley and attracting over 3,000 attendants. The Ninth Annual Valley Wide Student Art Show was held in March last year at the Chatsworth Train Depot. It was the most successful show to date. Local businesses, city council members, neighborhood councils, colleges, nonprofit groups, and school PTAs sponsor the show every year. This year (the Tenth Annual Valley Wide Student Art Show and Family Arts Festival) will be on Sunday, March 21, at the Chatsworth Train Depot from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Arts in Education Aid Council mission is to restore a complete arts education program to the public schools of the San Fernando Valley by developing and implementing curriculum, and supporting and celebrating activities and events, in art, music, dance, and theatre for all students. Arts in Education Aid Council will always remain independent of Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). http://www.aieac.org/

Airing on Radio Disney AM1110 - 6:30am-7am (PST)
Enrique C. Zaldivar, Director and Salvador Miranda, Division Mgr, Bureau of Sanitation City of Los AngelesThe City collects refuse, recyclables, yard trimmings, and bulky items from more than 750,000 homes. That's an average of 6,652 tons per day. The City of Los Angeles provides residents, including those who live in apartments, townhomes, condominiums & other multi-family homes, with FREE bulky item pickup. Bulky items are discarded items that are too large to fit into a regular trash container. They include furniture such as mattresses, sofas, cabinets; blinds, carpets, toilets, bundled wood, refrigerators, BBQs, stoves, microwaves, washers/dryers, water heaters, computers, computer monitors, laptops, stereos, TV sets, etc. It is illegal to abandon bulky items on the sidewalk, street or other public property. The fine for illegal dumping is $1,000. Anyone can call to report abandoned bulky items in the neighborhood. . http://www.lacitysan.org/

How Can You Help?
Each day, millions of people in Los Angeles contribute to the problem of pollution in our watershed. If we all pitch in, we can make a difference.
Use Environmentally Safe Products: Many pesticides have safe, chemically-free organic alternatives. By using non-toxic methods, you reduce the amount of dangerous chemicals that flows off of lawns and into storm drains.

Recycle Your Used Motor Oil and Filters: Used motor oil is extremely toxic to the environment if disposed improperly and there are literally hundreds of collection centers located throughout the city.

Compost Yard Trimmings:
Dispose of yard clippings and waste in a compost bin or in your City issued green container. You can also log on to the City's Smart-Gardening web site for more information.

Report Illegal Dumping: Illegal dumping of trash, paint products, motor oil and other chemicals into storm drains is against the law! Call (800) 974-9794 to report incidents of illegal dumping.

Pick up After Your Pets: Animal waste that runs off of lawns and sidewalks sends harmful bacteria into the storm drain system and out into the ocean, creating problems for swimmers and fish.

Dispose of Trash Properly: Separate items into plastics, glass and paper products, and discard only what is non-recyclable. For information on the City's Curbside Recycling Program, call (800) 773-2489.

Use Water Based Paints: Oil based paints are extremely toxic and much more problematic in disposing of than water based paint. Oil based paints are also not allowed to be disposed of in the City's sewer system and dumping it into storm drains is ILLEGAL.

Recycle Everything You Can! Landfill space (where all our trash goes) is rapidly filling up and we can greatly reduce the need for having to find precious, open land for additional capacity. Open land can be better suited for parks or natural habitat for wildlife and much of what we throw away can easily be reycled! FACT: It is estimated that, of the 40 tons of trash that washes onto our beaches every year, over 80% of it could've been recycled!

Take Your Residential Special Materials to a City of Los Angeles S.A.F.E. Center: Residential Special Materials are typical household products that should not be disposed of by merely throwing in the trash. These items include unused or leftover paint, pesticides, cleaners and other chemicals. There are several permanent locations throughout the City of Los Angeles where residents can take these items where they can be safely disposed of.

Don't Litter! Simple enough? Everything dropped, tossed, spilled or discarded onto streets and gutters will eventually make its way into the storm drain system--and out to the ocean! FACT: Every year, at least 800,000 cigarette butts are picked up from our beaches by Coastal Cleanup Volunteers.

Wash Your Car On the Lawn: Most detergents and other car washing ingredients contain chemicals that when washed into the street and enters the storm drain system, can harm sea life once it reaches the ocean. Also, the water runs over pavement or streets and washes chemicals, oil and other pollutants into the storm drains.Consider using an environmentally-friendly soap or take your car to a commercial car wash that recycles its water.

For more information about the Bureau of Sanitation City of Los Angeles: http://www.lacitysan.org/


COME ON AND CONNECT WITH LAFERN!
Twitter: http://twitter.com/laferncusack
Facebook Page: FB Group
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ESPN Radio Los Angeles: ESPNLosAngeles
Did You Miss the Show?!!: Podcasts

LaFern Cusack currently produces and hosts 710 ESPN's Experience (Sun. 5a-6a) and Radio Disney AM1110 Playground (Sun 6:30a-7a). With these shows LaFern delivers an inspiring, dynamic and insightful experience to listeners. She brings her humor, warmth and talent for tackling topical community issues with her unique style connecting with every aspect of the show.