The Walking Dead Take Over Hollywood at the 4th Annual Subway Zombie Walk

On Sunday, October 14, 2012 from 4:15-7:15pm hundreds of zombies took over the streets of Hollywood for the 4^th Annual Hollywood Subway Zombie Walk.  Around 600 people dressed as zombies, met up at the North Hollywood Metro Red Line, bought train fare, boarded the subway train to Hollywood and Highland, then proceeded to walk up and down Hollywood Blvd. Pretty impressive for a bunch of dead people to do all that. (Please click on the photos to view them regular size).

Organized by Jeff Schiffman, invites went out on Facebook with 623 stating that they were going. All ages were found walking dead. The youngest was 4 years old. Leo Palisano, age 6 was a zombie resembling Jack Skellington from Nightmare Before Christmas. When asked if he was having fun as a zombie, he shyly replied “Yep.”

There were prom queens zombies, business men zombies, baseball athlete zombies, housewife zombies in curlers, mom, dad and child zombies, birthday party zombies, Marilyn Monroe zombies, dancing zombies, Dr. zombies, nurse zombies and even a Beethoven zombie. Reactions were varied from unsuspecting tourists, by standers and store owners, as the dead moaned, groaned and walked slowly in a dazed state, often reaching  their arms out towards living people.

The first zombie walk on record took place August 19, 2001 in Sacramento, California and was billed as a “Zombie Parade.” Since then the idea has spread all over the world, and is wildly popular in the United States. For more information visit http://www.zombiewalk.com

If you’re in the Los Angeles area and you would like to participate in a zombie walk, there is one happening on Saturday, October 27, 2012 in Long Beach. For more information on the upcoming event, visit http://zombiewalklb.com.

Photos credit to: FFD Images, Gud Stuf Photography and The Steel Shark.com
Editor’s Note: For more videos of the event, please come back.

Steven Escobar to Receive Civic & Humanitarian Award at 4th Annual Kayamanan ng Bayan on June 2 at CBS Studios

On Wednesday, May 30, 2012 Diversity News Publications announced that Esteban Escobar (Journalist, reporter, editor, columnist, writer, producer, director, publicist, radio personality and philanthropist)aka Steven Escobar to receive Civic & Humanitarian Award at 4th Annual “Kayamanan ng Bayan” (a Phillipines independence day-week of celebration’s 114th Anniversary).

Steven Escobar will receive his award on June 2, 2012 from 4:00 p.m to 9:00 pm at New York City of CBS Studios located at 4024 Radford Avenue Studio City, CA 91604. Event to be hosted by Noel S. V. Omega.

“I can not believe it yet, I was not expecting this and I do not have a prepare speech, but first, I want to thank producer Boy Lizaso and the Panama Awards U.S.A for recognizing me. Also thank you to all my friends, colleagues, family, supporters, fans for all the love and support. It really feels good to get appreciated for everything I have done for our Diverse community in the USA.” said Steven Escobar.

The event will featured a red carpet, award show, 31st set of Fashion Discovery Models, various singers & artists will be on hand for entertainment and Ballroom Dancing all night.

“I am thrilled that Steven Escobar is getting the Civic and Humanitarian Award this year! He does so much in this world to bring awareness to important issues and causes in our society. This award is much deserved! Congratulations Steven!” said hit recording artist FAWN.

Also June, 2012 will also be the last month of the honorable Consul General Mary Joe Bernardo Aragon. The event is produced by Boy Lizaso (President, L.A. Maharlika Lions Club, 2012 & Producer/director/designer) & StyleFest 2012/Panama Awards U.S.A.

“Steven Escobar has played a key role in promoting my Pulitzer Prize entry memoir -”Out of the Transylvania Night,” showing his unconditional support, love and care on a daily basis. I am more than delighted to find out that he is the recipient of the Civic and Humanitarian Award; his deeds speak louder than words! Great job, Steven!” said Aura Imbarus, PhD (Motivational Speaker, Life and Goals Coach; Author of Pulitzer Prize memoir entry “Out of the Transylvania Night;” Creator of The Happiness Gene Project).

Portions of the event proceeds to go towards the following charity organizations: Paaralan ng Sta. Maria (Bulacan), Handmaids of The Divine Word Nuns from Bulacan ( Philippines), Monastery of The Angels Los Angeles (California), Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Rosary Group (Los Angeles, California) and ”Missionary of Jesus” (Precious Blood Church of L.A).

“Congratulations Steven on being chosen for your well deserved Civic and Humanitarian Award as part of the 114^th Anniversary of the Philippines Independence Day and week of celebration at the 4th Annual “Kayamanan ng Bayan” event. It is quite an honor! Please continue to increased public awareness on the important social diversity issues through your news publications at DiversityNewsPublications.com  Best wishes.” said Dr. Mark Valinsky.

Limited tickets for $65.00 (Includes: red carpet, dinner, show and awards) are still available for purchase by contacting Boy Lizaso at (213) 700-3787 or boylizaso@yahoo.com or Steven Escobar at (213) 321-9408 or diversitynews@hotmail.com

Once again fans, family, friends, supporters, colleagues of Steven Escobar are encouraged to come to the event and show their support.





About Esteban “Steven” Escobar:
Esteban A. Escobar (born in El Salvador, Central America on September 6th) is an American (Journalist, reporter, editor, columnist, writer, producer, director, publicist, radio personality, accounts receivable specialist and philanthropist). Esteban is known as Steven Escobar. He is the Executive Editor-In-Chief of Diversity News Magazine, an online & special print consumer news magazine that is visited by close to two million visitors a month while growing each day. Esteban “Steven” Escobar is also Producer, Director of Diversity News TV, the host of Diversity News Radio, on Air with Steven Escobar and the President of Diversity News Publications, a news/entertainment multimedia firm in Hollywood, CA. Steven Escobar owns E.E.Enterprises and an affiliate of The Diversity News Family of Companies.
Steven Escobar is also the official Hollywood and Los Angeles County Events Examiner for Examiner.com and contributor for Yahoo.com distributed via Yahoo Voices. Steven Escobar also gives back to the community by helping charities, and since 2003 to the present, he has been raising money and awareness for AIDS Walk LA benefiting AIDS Project Los Angeles. Also in 2011 Steven Escobar raised money and awareness for The Life Group LA and volunteered for Exotifit For Humanity and The Human Rights Campaign Los Angeles Steering Committee.
Steven was nominated for The Shorty Awards 2011 and the People’s Choice Fan Award 2012. In 2012 Steven Escobar receives the Humanitarian Award at the 2012 International Noble Awards. Yahoo.com names Steven Escobar the Hot 500 contributors during the month of March 2012 of Yahoo! Contributor Network. Steven Escobar currently resides in Los Angeles County in the City of Hollywood, CA. For more information visit http://www.stevenescobar.blogspot.com or his IMDB at http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4164655/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alex Leon, Director of Marketing & PR
World Wide Vital Marketing & Public Relations Inc.
TELS: (323) 465-3945 or (213) 321-9408
http://worldwidevitalpr.wordpress.com/
worldwidevitalpr@gmail.com

EDITOR’S NOTE: Steven Escobar and Boy Lizaso are available for interviews before or after event. Please remember to post press release or mention event in your magazine, website, radio and television show and if you would like more information contact Alex Leon via email at worldwidevitalpr@gmail.com

Kitty Pleasant Interviews Book Author John Palisano of NERVES at Dark Delicacies

On Saturday, May 19, 2012 book author John Palisano held his official book signing of Nerves at Dark Delicacies located at 3512 W. Magnolia Blvd in Burbank, CA 91505 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Other authors signing their books were Joseph Nassise signed By the Blood of Heroes: The Great Undead War Book I; Hugh Sterbakov signed City Under the Moon; Michael Mallory signed The Mural; and Richard Finney signed Demon Days: Angel of Light. (Click on the photos to view larger size).

Actor Seth Green who worked with Mike Myers on Austin Powers in Goldmember made an appearance, including recording hit artist FAWN and actress DeeDee Bigelow.

NERVES Synopsis:

Something strange has changed in Josiah. He has awoken with the power to give life to the dead. And he isn’t the only one with an amazing new ability. Halfway across the world, his brother Horace discovers his very presence can kill.

The brothers’ powers are not a secret to everyone, however. The vampiric witch Ogam plans to claim them for his own. The only hope for the brothers’ safety is to escape to the otherworld known as Alta, where they can realize the true power of their supernatural gifts.

Will they be able to defeat Ogam ,or will he take their love, their family, and their very souls?

Nerves is an inventive dark fantasy novel that transports readers into an entirely new world never before seen in film, television, or in the written word.

READ A FREE SAMPLE CHAPTER:

http://www.scribd.com/johnpalisano/d/81875817-NERVES-by-John-Palisano-1st-Chapter-Sample

Details
SKU	SKU2971
Weight	2.00 lbs
Author	John Palisano
Publisher	Bad Moon Books
Edition	Trade paperback
Artist	GAK
Page Count	374
Release Date	February 2012
Price:	$18.95

NERVES ARE AVAILABLE HERE: (Click picture or link to order)

or
http://www.badmoonbooks.com/product.php?productid=2971&cat=0&page=1

About Book Author John Palisano:
John Palisano is well known to readers of Horror Library, Darkness On The Edge, Phobophobia, Harvest Hill, Halloween Spirits, the Bram Stoker nominated Midnight Walk, and many other dark publications.

NERVES is his debut novel and he brings to it a bucketful of fear, terror, and pathos.

For more videos visit Diversity News TV on Blip TV or Diversity News TV on YouTube
Source: Diversity News Publications
Cover photo credit to:  PS Gifford and others to: Diversity News Publications

First Flour ‘Bombed’ Now Kim Kardashian Store DASH Protested By Around 100 Concerned Citizens

Special Story Written By JR for Diversity News Magazine

Some people don’t know when to quit while they’re ahead. This seems to be the case with reality ‘star’ Kim Kardashian. First she’s ‘floured bombed’ last month in West Hollywood, California on the red carpet, then her DASH store in Calabasas, California is targeted by close to100 concerned citizens protesting her use and promotion of fur.

On Saturday, April 14, 2012 from 12-2 protestors chanted rather peacefully, “Hey Kim what do you say, how many animals did you kill today?” and “40 animals, one fur coat.” The very cooperative and respectful group of people consisted of animal activists, animal lovers and concerned citizens who are disgusted with Kim Kardashian being a role model for their children. Last Chance For Animals Investigator Bryan Monell commented, “Kim Kardashian has admitted to having seen the footage of raccoons, cats and dogs being skinned alive for their fur and she STILL has fur in her line.” To this comment, one person was heard saying, “If she saw that and still has the nerve to sell fur and promote it then she has no soul.” Hit singer-songwriter Fawn said, “If we put people like the Kardashian’s on a pedestal and as role models for our youth, then what does that say about us as a collective people?”

Carrying signs and facing them towards the store to obvious uncomfortable employees inside, as well as lining the walls, walkways and street corners, the demonstrators kindly left a path for shoppers to walk through to the store. It was no surprise that the store eventually turned it’s lights out, hoping that the individuals exercising their constitutional right to express their opinion, would just go away.

Animal Rights Lawyer and Award Winning Director and Producer of “Skin Trade,” Shannon Keith said “We’re here trying to educate them on the atrocities of the fur trade and educate them, but they won’t allow me in the store. They don’t want to see this, (holding the film Skin Trade) because then they would know the truth and they wouldn’t want to wear fur.” She went on to say: “This reflects poorly on DASH and their policies because if they’re going to discriminate on people that just want to peacefully educate them, then who else are they discriminating against – what other classes of human being’s are they discriminating against from walking into their store?”

Organizer of Fur Free West Hollywood, Ellen Lavinthal said, “What’s very interesting and hypocritical is that Khloe Kardashian, one of the main owners of the store and one of the main people who ran the store originally before she moved to Texas with her husband, posed for PETA in an ad that said ‘I’d rather go naked then wear fur’ and yet she is condoning this behavior.” She went on to point out that “Most people are missing the point – Whether DASH is currently carrying fur is not the issue, as right now is not the ‘fur’ time of year, it is their continual promotion of fur on the red carpet, in their stores and on their reality how. It’s their arrogant refusal.

Calabasas California wasn’t the only state holding a protest at DASH. New York and Miami were simultaneously protesting DASH stores in their area as well.

Rumor has it that Kim would just like this all to go away. Silly Kim. This is NOT going away. You will keep getting Twitter messages slamming your affinity to kill innocent animals for your vanity until you finally learn compassion and a bit of class. Don’t you know that it isn’t fashionable, appealing or even vogue to wear something that once had a mother, just like you? Lovers of the animal world don’t hold your breath. With some one like Kim, it may never happen.

Photos credit to: FFD Images & Christina Hess

Sophia Bush, Joanna Cassidy Attend ‘A Night For The Dolphins’ Honoring Ric ‘OBarry

By JR, Special for Diversity News Magazine.

On Saturday, March 3, 2012, Ric O’Barry, star of the Academy Award winning film, “The Cove,” was honored at a red carpet fundraising event, “A Night For The Dolphins.” The posh affair was held in a Beverly Hills mansion owned by James Costa and raised much needed funds to continue to save slaughtered Dolphins around the world and advance awareness for the protection of them.

Tickets were $150 each, which included vegan hors d’oeuvres, a cocktail reception, champagne toast and a generous gift bag. Around 200 people crowded into the scenic home and were entertained by vocalist Mia Maestro with a DJ set by Michelle Rodriguez, a seasoned actress from the popular TV series, “Lost.”

A new PSA, ‘Kids Speak Out Against Dolphin Captivity” was shown at the party, which featured children – “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.” Ric O’Barry was introduced to a supportive audience by event producer Deborah Bassett and brought the crowd up to speed with the latest happenings around the world stating that “(The dolphin) hunting ended early this year, due to lack of demand. It usually goes from September to April.” He continued, “I guarantee (the hunting) will stop.” Speaking over a cheering flock of supporters, he explained that they had signed contracts with other places and that had stopped hunting completely. He made it clear that he “likes” Japan, and only “has an issue with certain men who are killing the dolphins.” He ended saying, “this is an ongoing campaign and thank you so much for supporting it.”

Well known animal activist and Animal Alliance Founder, Ellen Lavinthal said, “Tonight is a night for the protection of the intelligent and sensitive mammals of the seas– the dolphins who are needlessly slaughtered, all for the sake of having entertainment at Sea World and other water parks.” Environmental activist, Earth Island/Dolphin Project consultant and “A Night For The Dolphins” event producer Deborah Bassett explained, “Ric is one of the most dedicated activists working on behalf of marine mammal protection and wildlife conservation on the planet today. I have a profound respect and admiration for his sincere desire and tireless mission to eradicate dolphin slaughters around the world and put an end to the captive dolphin industry.” Bassett continued, “Having worked in the field with Ric in Taiji and as a consultant for Earth Island Institute and Ric O’Barry’s Dolphin Project, I have witnessed firsthand his unique approach and it is one that encompasses the people of Japan. Ric has always been about embracing the culture and working with the Japanese people to effect change from within as he understands that this is ultimately where it needs to come from. He remains steadfast in this vision and those of us who are honored to work so closely with him support his efforts 100%.”

Ric O’Barry was first recognized in the 1960’s for capturing and training five dolphins, which were used in the well-known TV series “Flipper.” After witnessing the ‘suicide’ of one of the beloved “Flipper” dolphins, Kathy, who swam into his lap and died, O’Barry made a radical turn around and began combating the industry which captures dolphins. In 1970 he founded the Dolphin Project, a group that aims to educate the public about captivity, and whenever possible, free dolphins. He was front and center in the 2009 Academy Award-winning film, “The Cove” which used brilliant and gutsy covert techniques to expose the yearly dolphin hunting drive that occurs in Taiji, Japan.

Prominent guests who came out to honor Ric O’Barry included One Tree Hill’s Sophia Bush, Ed Begley Jr., Veteren actress Joanna Cassidy, Breaking Dawn actress Maggie Grace, Biggest Loser fitness icon, Jillian Michaels, Licoln O’Barry, Hit recording artist Fawn, Lost actress Michelle Rodriguez, Whale Wars Ady Gil, Q’orianka Kilcher, Leilani Munter, Eric Balfour, Lina Esco, Abilgal Spencer, Ashley Scott, Lasse Larsen and Steve Hart.

Some of the event sponsors were Zico Coconut Water, Golden Mean Café’, Julian Hard Cider, Ecojoia and many more. All proceeds benefitted Richard O’Barry’s Dolphin Project, a campaign under the International Marine Mammal Project at the non-profit Earth Island Institute.

To find out more about Richard O’Barry and the Dolphin Project, go to www.dolphinproject.org and Dolphin PSA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30Nm5uv292g

Source: www.dolphinproject.org
Photos credit to: Diana Lannes, www.dolphinproject.org & FFD Images.

NERVES by John Palisano, A Dark Fantasy and Horror Book Available Now – Order Yours Today

For all those of you who love to read Dark Fantasy and Horror books, we are happy to introduce you our friend and Book Author John Palisano brand new released book titled Nerves.
Remember NERVES by John Palisano is available for purchase now.

About Book Author John Palisano:
John Palisano is well known to readers of Horror Library, Darkness On The Edge, Phobophobia, Harvest Hill, Halloween Spirits, the Bram Stoker nominated Midnight Walk, and many other dark publications.

NERVES is his debut novel and he brings to it a bucketful of fear, terror, and pathos.

For more information where you can learn about the writer and his upcoming projects visit www.johnpalisano.com.

 

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MGM Grand “Be the First to Experience! BOOK NOW” *MGM Grand is getting GRANDer – New rooms. New clubs. New experiences (*See site for additional details and restrictions).

 

Synopsis

Something strange has changed in Josiah. He has awoken with the power to give life to the dead. And he isn’t the only one with an amazing new ability. Halfway across the world, his brother Horace discovers his very presence can kill.

The brothers’ powers are not a secret to everyone, however. The vampiric witch Ogam plans to claim them for his own. The only hope for the brothers’ safety is to escape to the otherworld known as Alta, where they can realize the true power of their supernatural gifts.

Will they be able to defeat Ogam ,or will he take their love, their family, and their very souls?

Read what other book authors are saying about the book

“Inventive dark fantasy from a fresh talent. Action, horror, and high emotional stakes make this a winner.”

–Scott Nicholson, author of The Red Church

John Palisano’s novel, NERVES, is a unique montage of fantasy and horror and a breath of fresh air in either genre. His characters are rich and memorable, the suspense never-ending, and the story has more twists and turns than a Louisiana bayou. This book won’t be collecting dust on your nightstand!

—Deborah LeBlanc, author of The Wolven

“Think X-Men meets Lovecraft, and you have a taste of the action-packed bizarre and fascinating world that lives behind NERVES, and its dark tale of life-givers, death-bringers, and the balance that must be struck between them…and who will pay that price in that bargain.”

–John Everson, Bram Stoker Award-winning author of Siren and The Pumpkin Man

“John Palisano continues his trend of engaging and visionary fiction. NERVES is dark fantasy at its most powerful, with broad, mature strokes of writing, and an insanely good cast of characters. Highly recommended.”

–Rio Youers, author of Old Man Scratch and End Times.

“NERVES is a pure work of genius. From the very first page, John Palisano lures you into a bizarre and twisted world of dark magic where anything is possible. Gripping and unrelenting NERVES will leave you on the edge of your seat.”

–Gabrielle Faust, Author of ETERNAL VIGILANCE and REVENGE

Nerves is an inventive dark fantasy novel that transports readers into an entirely new world never before seen in film, television, or in the written word.

READ A FREE SAMPLE CHAPTER:

http://www.scribd.com/johnpalisano/d/81875817-NERVES-by-John-Palisano-1st-Chapter-Sample

Details
SKU	SKU2971
Weight	2.00 lbs
Author	John Palisano
Publisher	Bad Moon Books
Edition	Trade paperback
Artist	GAK
Page Count	374
Release Date	February 2012
Price:	$18.95

NERVES IS AVAILABLE HERE:

http://www.badmoonbooks.com/product.php?productid=2971&cat=0&page=1

Video trailer courtesy of Youtube.com/johnpalisano
Cover book credit to: GAK and photo courtesy of John Palisano

Editor’s Note: Congratulations to John Palisano for his novel NERVES and we wish him the best with his career.

This article post is brought to you and sponsored by: Diversity News TV on Blip TV and YouTube Channels (Click on picture to visit our videos).

SouthMain Rejuvenation Institute Grand Re Opening Van Nuys Office on February 4, 2012

On Monday, January 23, 2012 SouthMain Rejuvenation Institute announced that their official SouthMain Rejuvenation Institute Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting & Open House will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2012, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at 14545 Friar St., Van Nuys, CA 91411. The event is FREE and every one are welcome.

Marie Osmond Attends The 80th Anniversary Hollywood Christmas Parade 2011 Benefiting Marine Toys for Tots

On Sunday, November 27, 2011 The weather was perfect for every one to watch and enjoy The 80th Anniversary Hollywood Christmas Parade 2011 Benefiting Marine Toys for Tots.

The event was held from 4:00 pm staring with the celebrities red carpet arrivals and the parade started live at 6:00 pm from Hollywood California. Bill Lomas, Producer of the live parade and President of Hollywood’s Santa Parade LLC.

Some of the celebrities the attended the event were Quinton Aaron, Santa Claus, Erik Estrada, La Toya Jackson, Laura McKenzie, Booboo Stewart, Fivel Stewart, Mayor Antonio Ramón Villaraigosa, Lu Parker and Kate Linder.

From the Heart of Hollywood! Starting on Hollywood Blvd at Orange, the U-shaped parade route will travel east to Vine, south on Vine to Sunset Boulevard and west on Sunset, back to Orange.

The length of this year’s parade route is two and one half miles. Per event organizers approximately 2,000 people participated in this year’s parade. They featured a 10,000 square feet of Red Carpet on Hollywood Boulevard in front of the historic Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.

The Hollywood Christmas Parade is presented annually by Hollywood’s Santa Parade LLC, in association with The City of Los Angeles and Associated Television International.

About The Hollywood Christmas Parade: Since 1928, the Hollywood Christmas Parade has been an American tradition for over 80 years! There were three years during wartime when the parade wasn’t presented. The Hollywood Christmas Parade was originally called the Santa Claus Lane Parade. When the American performer Gene Autry, who was known as The Singing Cowboy, was riding on his horse down Hollywood Boulevard in the 1946 Santa Claus Lane Parade, he heard parade spectators in the crowd exclaim, “Here comes Santa Claus!” This incident became the inspiration for Autry to compose the traditional perennial Christmas holiday song, “Here Come’s Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane),” which he co-wrote with Oakley Haldeman in 1949. Autry first recorded the song in 1947. The song was released as a single by Columbia Records, and became a #5 country and #9 pop hit at the time. Gene Autry is the only celebrity to have five stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, one in each of the five categories, Motion Pictures, Radio, Recording, Television and Live Theater. Today the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard at Highland Avenue, where the Hollywood Christmas Parade begins its two and a half mile route, is named Gene Autry Square. For more information please visit the parade’s official websites, www.thehollywoodchristmasparade.com and www.hollywoodchristmasparade2011.com

Photos credit to: Gisele Rebeiro from Party By 5, Stella Gomez, Alex Palomares and Francois Palais for Diversity News Magazine, Yahoo.com, Examiner.com
Video Host/Voice Over by Recording Artist FAWN and recorded/edited by John Palisano for Diversity News TV.

Laughter, Libations, Inappropriate Behavior Starting George Lopez at The Comedy Store – December 2th

~IN THE BIG ROOM~

Pryor’s Planet & ARME are non-profit organizations that work to save animals in need and expose animal cruelty in order to educate the public and make the world a kinder place for animals. Your contribution is tax-deductible!

Richard Pryor was not only a comic icon but also loved and protected all animals. His big heart and comedic spirit will be with us on this wonderful night. Celebrate Richard’s legacy with us!

A TICKET: $100 Includes all night access to great entertainment and food and an amazing gift bag - I WANT ONE!

VIP TICKET: $250 Includes preferred seating, bottle of champagne, 2 complimentary drink tickets, VIP gift bag and red carpet - I WANT ONE!

TABLE TICKET: $1,000 Includes private booth that holds 5 people, champagne & wine, 2 complimentary drink tickets, souvenirs and gifts, VIP gift bag, red carpet, and professional photo from evening of your choice - I WANT ONE!

*Please note that per Comedy Store, there is a 2 drink minimum per person.

This post is brought and partial sponsored by: Diversity News TV on Blip TV

EXCLUSIVE: West Hollywood Makes History Going Fur Free

By JR, Special for Diversity News Magazine

It was a historical night on Monday, September 19, 2011 when around 1:30am (early Tuesday morning) West Hollywood voted unanimously to be the first city in the world to become “Fur Free.”

Business owners, residents and people from other cities spoke out about the ordinance that bans the sale of fur.  Although the city authorities have to refine the ordinance, it will be good to go within in the coming weeks.

Animal advocates and supporters celebrated the moment with cheers, high fives, smiles and hugs. The ban is the first of it’s kind in the nation, prohibiting the sales of fur clothing. For now, the sales of fur accessories and leather items are still allowed.

During the meeting, around 60 people stepped up to the podium to speak. Attorney Steven J. Bernheim said, “Free consumer choice has limits. For example, you can no longer be able to order foie gras, because it’s been deemed too cruel. For example, you can’t watch cock fighting any longer. Those are the reasons why you should pass this ordinance.” Jean Dobrin, a 36 year resident of West Hollywood said she was “horrified” by the selling of fur and went on to say, “Stella, the daughter of Paul McCartney won’t sell one speck of fur in her store.  If I told you the method of killing these animals, you would be revolted.” She continued,  “When I learned 20 years ago that they kill foxes by inserting an electrical charge in their anus, how would you like that? “

On the opposing side, Ester Ban made a good point, “No one has mentioned leather shoes, leather bags. Why not? They just don’t like fur.” She went on to say, “I don’t tell you what to wear, I don’t think you should tell me or the rest of the citizens to wear” She said that she didn’t believe that  animals were killed inhumanly. She said it was “stupid” and just a “tactic trying to scare people like a horror film.” Hecklers from the opposing view clapped in support and were heard saying “lies, it’s all staged, they don’t do the to animals.” A few times during the heated discussion, the gavel rang out to keep the session in order.


Matt Rosell stated he went undercover for 4 months at a fox farm in Illinois and assured the audience that he saw “500 killed by anal electrocution.” He said “The public has a right to know what really happens to these animals. The fur industry is only able to sell these products by not sharing these facts.” Mary Cummins, president of animal advocates who rescues wildlife, stated that she had an “educational raccoon” that she almost brought to the meeting who loves to play with dog toys and watches tv. She pleaded,  “I can assure you that they feel pain and sadness just like our cats and dogs. An animal is a living, breathing being. “

Retailers expressed their concerns stating that they could “lose 15% or more” of their revenue.  To this, hit recording artist Fawn responded in a matter of fact tone, “Banning smoking in restaurants, has not stopped people from going to restaurants. 15% is not that big of a loss, compared to the loss of a life. There are plenty of alternatives that look like real fur.” She continued to say “I’m part of the entertainment industry, where fashion is at the fore front. Fashion is important for what I do. If West Hollywood continues to sell fur products, I will not shop here any more.” Fawn commented on the fact that President Obama would be visiting West Hollywood this coming Monday, and pointed out,  “The First Lady Michelle Obama, refuses to wear fur.” Fawn proclaimed that “fear” was leading people to oppose the ban and used Rosa Parks as an example of overcoming fear.  She asserted, “When Rosa Parks said no to the back of the bus, she was afraid, but stood up because it was the right thing to do. The thing about it is we have a choice.  I ask that we make the right choice for humanity. West Hollywood leads, it doesn’t follow.”

Shannon Keith, Animal Rights attorney and award-winning producer of “Skin Trade,” affirmed,  “I have seen undercover footage of what goes on, on fur farms” She said she went “door to door” to speak to business owners in West Hollywood and when they were shown the footage, they actually took the fur products off their shelves themselves.” She continued to say, “People are concerned about their sales, but what concerns us it the right not to torture animals.”


Ellen Lavinthal, one of the leaders of Fur Free West Hollywood said “It’s just the beginning of what’s to come in the humane treatment of animals and how we view fashion.”

Ed Buck, another leader of Fur Free West Hollywood stated, “West Hollywood is just more than this city, we are a beacon – the city on the hill and when we do something here, it does reverberate around the country and around the world. This is a reverberation that will be felt around the world.”

About Fur Free Weho Campaign: 
Each year more than 50 million animals are killed for fur, whether raised in factory farm-like conditions or trapped in the wild. Recent investigations also show domestic dogs and cats are killed for fur, especially fur trim on garments imported from China, often improperly labeled “faux.” Last month, President Obama signed the Truth in Fur Labeling Act to require all real animal fur to be correctly labeled.

In 1989, West Hollywood passed Resolution Number 558 proclaiming the city a “Cruelty Free Zone for Animals.” The fur-free WeHo campaign makes good on the city’s promise.

“West Hollywood has the opportunity to once again be a leader for animal welfare by becoming the first Fur Free city in the nation,” said campaign supporter D’Amico. “We have pledged to be a place that is free of cruelty to animals and we can no longer support the barbaric fur trade by selling the products of that cruelty in our city.”

“This frivolous luxury can be stopped with consumer and civic action,” said campaign leader Ellen Lavinthal. “This will be another historic campaign showing the nation that West Hollywood is a leader in the protection of animal citizens.”

Shannon Keith, Ellen Lavinthal and Ed Buck, three animal advocates, have come together to BAN the sale of fur in West Hollywood. To find out more go to www.furfreeweho.com & www.weho.org

Sources: www.furfreeweho.com

Photos credit to: http://wehonews.com, Gary Smith

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