Featuring Brazilia Moda Editor In Chief from BBW Beauties Magazine

As you may know Diversity News Magazine was born and founded by Diversity News Publications to showcase Diversity. Not sure if you have take a minute to learn about our mission, values and purpose.

The purpose of Diversity News Magazine is to educate and inform its diverse community world wide and focusing on local, national, and international News, Entertainment, Features, Sports and, more importantly, newsworthy items that would be of interest to our audience.

Now we want to introduce a person that also believes in Diversity by contributing to our society via her own independent media outlet BBW Beauties Magazine.

Brazilia Moda started her career as a Plus Size Model and Motivational Speaker who has been in the industry for several years. She have appeared on several talk shows which include Ricky Lake, Geraldo Rivera, Mark Walberg and Carnie Wilson.

She has been on the Tyra Banks show, Pa Lante Con Christina. Also modeled for Goddess, Miss Anna Fashion and Fashion Bug in New York City and Florida.

Brazilia also co-hosted WEXY1040 Radio program on Wednesday for 2 years in Florida. She was able to be on the same billboard of Christian event where Michael English was the featured singer and Brazilia as their comedian for there event.

She is From Brooklyn, New York, the city that never sleeps. She has worked hard to spread her Message of Self Confidence, body postive and loving who you are.

Brazilia Moda is the Editor In Chief of BBW Beauties Magazine that focus on fashion for the fuller figure, makeup, healthy lifestyle and a positive self esteem to  give women the tools to build confidence & self-worth. She feels that one should love who they are.

She started BBW Beauties Magazine to deal with some of the concern’s and issues that the curvy women have and to share some fabulous fashion that flatters the fuller figure and for some to share their story, concerns and inspirational moments in life. She have had the great pleasure of having some great women be cover models, such as hit recording artist Fawn, a wonderful singer with a heart of gold, Doria Pagnotta from Jersey Louis, an amazing women, Fatima Parker, Gwen Devoe plus so many other fabulous women who a a great positive influence to so many women and girls.

All of the women who have shared their stories have had such a great influence to their readers and have helped some many in not giving up on their dreams and to stand tall for who they are.

 Source: BBW Beauties Magazine
Photo credit to: Brazilia Moda

Editor’s Note: Congratulations to Brazilia Moda for been featured on our #1 award winning publication.

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

Esteban Escobar aka Steven Escobar Receives Humanitarian Award at the 2012 International Noble Awards

On Wednesday, April 25, 2012 Diversity News Publications announced that Esteban Escobar (Journalist, reporter, editor, columnist, writer, producer, director, publicist, radio personality, accounts receivable specialist and philanthropist) aka Steven Escobar received Humanitarian Award at the International Noble Awards 2012.

Steven Escobar received his award at Kundirana 2012 Gala Concert & International Noble Awards Event benefiting World Medical Missions and De La Salle’s Bahay Pag-Asa.  The event was held on Sunday, April 22, 2012 from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm at The Celebrity Center located at 5930 Franklin Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90028. The masters of ceremonies were Norma Jean Eustaquio and Lisa Cadano. General tickets for the event were $10.00 at the door.

“Thank Lou Baron president of Celestial Productions and producer of Kundirana 2012 Gala Concert and The International Noble Awards for my award. Thank you to Molly Hollywood for coming to cover event for Diversity News Magazine and oh course Thank you to Kitty Pleasant for coming to support me, Thank You all for the congratulations messages, calls and text messages, thank you to my publicist Alex Leon of World Wide Vital Marketing and Public Relations, also thank you to all the media/press the came to cover the event for their outlets and if I forgot any one please accept my apologies.” Said Steven Escobar.

The event will featured red carpet arrivals, beauty queens, live entertainment, memoriam tribute for the loss lives and the awards presentation to honor leaders and talents in the community. Some of the entertainers were Vangie Crowther, Angelique Cobilla (Little Miss Kundirana 2012), Shay Louise, Ella Tesoro (Celestial Beauty 2010), The Classic Harmony, Payal Wadhawan (Miss Indian 2011), Chenza Puno, Christine Love, Queenie Navarro and oh course Kundirana (Batch 2012 of La Salle).

Hit recording artist Fawn said, “I am so happy that The International Noble Awards recognized Steven Escobar this year for their 2012 Humanitarian Noble Award. Steven has supported HIV/AIDS Awareness and been fundraising for this important cause for years, bringing important issues close to us all with his press coverage and philanthropic work.” Fawn continued “I’m thrilled is finally being recognized for this.” said Mary Ann Omega, Vice President Of The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles.

The 2012 International Noble Awards Hosts were Stephanie Baron, Denise Aleman, Adi Rodriguez, Jayme Lizaso, Joanna Chao and Princes MZR.

“I am very proud to be a part of DIVERSITY NEWS and all it’s various activities. Steven Escobar, our fearless leader, helps us to raise thousands of dollars every year for people in need. Through his organizational skills, we give in many ways to many situations. Many of us want to give back to our communities, but don’t have a clue what to do. Steven makes giving fun and he always spells out the situation so that we feel good about doing whatever it is we’re doing. GOD BLESS STEVEN ESCOBAR and Diversity News !! With Respect and gratitude,” said Cynthia Manley (Singer/songwriter/entertainer).

The 2012 International Awards Awardees are: Queen of Peace Rosary Group for Selfless Generosity & Service to the Kundirana Mission for 20 years, Loida Barrientos for Community Leader Award, Rose Chua for Outstanding Service & Generous Contribution to Community, Arnold Garcia for Outstanding Songwriter/Producer, Dr. Kim Diana Le for International Noble Awards for Philanthropy, Boy Lizaso for Quintessential Community Leader, Andy Edralin for Outstanding in Journalism, Lala Usis Scott for Outstanding Community Leader & Mother of the Year, Benny Uy for Creative Award & Outstanding Photographer, Precy Uy for Humanitarian Award, Malou Bonus for Outstanding in Business, Ryan Arciaga for International Noble and Steven Escobar for Humanitarian. (Video link http://blip.tv/diversity-news-tv/presenting-the-2012-international-noble-awards-awardees-at-kundirana-concert-gala-6111218 feel free to EMBED if you need more visit our Blip TV channel at http://www.diversitynewstv.blip.tv).

“Steven, I believe your Humanitarian Award was because of your passion and dedication in the AIDS WALK LA year after year for the HIV/AIDS fundraising, awareness and prevention. I am an advocate of this cause. Congratulations Steven”! Said Mary Ann Omega, Vice President Of The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce Los Angeles.

The 2012 Kundirana Concert & International Noble Awards Event benefiting World Medical Missions is a production of Celestial Productions. Lou Baron, Executive Producer and is a community leader, philanthropist, and president of Celestial Productions.


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 People’s Choice Fan Award 2012. Steven Escobar currently resides in Los Angeles County in the City of Hollywood, CA. For more information visit http://www.stevenescobar.blogspot.com/ orhttp://www.imdb.com/name/nm4164655/

###

About Kundirana:
Kundirana is a high-school Music Ministry. As its members are part of a select few students that come from La Salle Green Hills. Aside from just being a simple singing group and music ministry. Kundirana also has the distinction of being the most famous high school singing group in the Philippines.[1] For more information visithttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kundirana 

About Celestial Productions:
A Stellar Creation/Celestial Productions creates stellar events that showcase and honor leaders and talents in the community, while benefiting local non-profit organizations through the funds we raise. Celestial Productions is the proud producers of The International Noble Awards, America’s Celestial Beauties, America’s Celestial Adonises, America’s Timeless Beauties, Special Celestial, Miss International Kundirana and Lady Dame Kundirana. For more information visit http://internationalnobleawards.wordpress.com

About World Medical Missions:
World Medical Missions is a non-profit organization which has committed the last twenty-three years into caring for the sick and impoverished people of the Philippines. The team is composed of a number of doctors, nurses, healthcare professionals, and volunteers who donate their time and services on a yearly mission to rural villages in the Philippine Islands, where they spend three weeks providing 24-hour medical care to people who have been denied access to the country’s struggling healthcare system. Knowing that entire communities whose health conditions continue to worsen have been left behind and ignored, the World Medical Missions seeks to share healing and hope.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

or

Lou Baron, President

Stellar Creation/Celestial Productions

TEL: (626) 260-6102

http://internationalnobleawards.wordpress.com

americascelestial@gmail.com

 Photos credit to: Mollywood Photography for Diversity News Publications

EDITOR’S NOTE: Please post press release or mention event in your magazine, website, radio and tv and if you would like more information contact Alex Leon via email at worldwidevitalpr@gmail.com  Also please email us any links of clip of the coverage post. Photos credit to: Mollywood Photography for Diversity News Publications. Thank you.           

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.

Grammy Awards Weekend For Free WeHo Protest Maxfield Two Hours Before Whitney Houston Dies

By JR, Special for Diversity News Magazine.

On Saturday, February 11, 2012, During the high-profile Grammy Awards weekend, and just 2 hours before Whitney Houston was found dead at age 48 at the Beverly Hills Hilton less than 2 miles away, a large mass of 150+ anti-fur protestors dressed in funeral clothing surrounded the trendy Maxfield boutique located at 8825 Melrose Avenue in the city of  West Hollywood, CA 90069.

Organized by Fur Free West Hollywood, which is spear-headed by Animal Alliance’s Ellen Lavinthal, the protest was publicized all over popular social websites including Facebook and Twitter. Lavinthal explained that she was given a personal promise from Maxfield owner Tommy Perse that the fur in his store would be removed early, however shortly after she left, the fur magically re-appeared. Lavinthal stated, “There were five fur coats in there yesterday. They broke their word, so we are here today to show them that we are watching.”

Hit recording artist Fawn commented, “If you’re going to continue to display and sell fur, after you’ve agreed to take it down, don’t lie about it! That shows a lack of integrity and if you lack integrity in your word, then what do the products you sell lack?”

Fawn said, “In this day and age, there are plenty of faux fur alternatives. Wearing real fur is cruel, pure vanity and ethically wrong.”

Agreeing with her, Lavinthal concluded, “We will be back for the Oscars, and every other major entertainment event thereafter until they keep their word.” 

(ADVERTISEMENT):

 THEhotel “Guarantee a Suite” *Guarantee your suite will have 1 king bed or 2 queen beds for an additional $30.00 + tax per night (*see site for additional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Dec 14, 2011 – Mar 31, 2012. Promo Code: PQQ (Exp 3/31/12)

Last Chance For Animals undercover investigator Bryan Monell pointed out, “While Maxfield lied, more animals died,” a sentiment several protestors began to shout “While Maxfield Lies, They Die,” and “Maxfield Lied, They Died.” Other activists bellowed “Boycott Maxfield” and one participant yelled about dogs and cats being skinned alive in China for fur, as people walked by. One of those people happened to be virtuoso guitarist Nils Lofgren, best known for playing with Bruce Springsteen in the E Street Band, Crazy Horse and Grin.

All in all, it was a calm, civil and somber protest with participants wearing long faces, black veils and carrying gruesome signs with photos of animals skinned alive – an unfortunate reminder of what goes on in the fur industry. Animal rights activist Patty Shenker said, “It’s deplorable what is done to these sentient beings, and all for vanity! Only frigid women wear fur!”

A ‘funeral procession’ with protestors completely cloaked in black, holding black signs and wearing black veils traveled up and down the streets frequented by many celebrity clientele such as Mary Kate and Ashley Olson, Madonna, Johnny Depp, Prince, Adam Lambert and Faux-fur friendly Pamela Anderson.

West Hollywood is known for being a “city of compassion” with several historic laws passed, such as the recent decision of West Hollywood becoming the first Fur Free city in the United States (taking effect September 2013), the ban on the declawing of cats, the sale of animals in pet stores, and the distinct classification of pets no longer being “property” but being referred to as “companion animals.”

Among the protestors were Religious leaders Rabbi Jonathan Klein and Michael Mata, a minister with the National Evangelical Latino Organization. Klein and Mata are part of the ‘Faith Action for Animals’ and hope to bring faith and animal rights together for ethical reasons. Klein explained that up until the days of Noah, people were eating a “plant based” diet, quoting one of the 10 commandments, “though shalt not kill.” He continued, “All creation, all life is precious and valuable.” 

According to protest co-organizer Ed Buck, when the Fur Free West Hollywood campaign began last year, Maxfield which is known for it’s unusual, eclectic and extravagant merchandise, agreed to remove all fur items from their store, joining other West Hollywood stores that also volunteered to ‘take down early’ such as H, Lorenzo, The Pleasure Chest, and Zadig & Voltaire on Sunset Plaza.

Eleven years old Stella Lavinthal said, “Out of all the stores that agreed to remove their fur early, Maxfield was the only one that said they would and didn’t.  What’s up with that? They lied, so we’re here today to let them know that it’s not okay to lie.” 

Do you hear that Maxfield? It’s not okay to lie. Looks like the Fur Free West Hollywood has struck again.

Photos credit to: Last Change for Animals and FFD Images

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