Pure, Unadulterated Joy

Betsy Butler honoring our veterans at Redondo Beach Veterans Memorial celebration

Very happy to be here because our military is the heartbeat of America who are protecting our freedoms and bringing freedom to those around the world.
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#Redondo Beach Memorial Celebration above the pier #veterans #honor

I think I just caught the end, but what a great turn-out and great people who have served our country.

God Bless America!! http://thejoywriter.com

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Hollywood Forever is packed to see Young Frankenstein #fun #cemetery #cinespia

Worth the hour and half wait...
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My thoughts on @HangoverPartII, Todd Phillips, #Knight and Day, Ed Schultz aka @WeGotEd, Margarita Wrestling in #Hermosa Beach, @CANOW, and #pornography

By Joy A. Kennelly

Have been wanting to write on this subject for quite awhile, but needed to let it simmer and brew before spilling my thoughts here. This weighs heavy on my heart and I feel it needs to be addressed.

I recently saw Hangover II and left the theatre feeling violated and disgusted due to the offensive content and pornographic images displayed throughout - a monkey licking a man's hidden penis, a dismembered finger treated cavalierly, excessive drug use, F-bombs dropped every five seconds, naked "she-men" wandering about with breasts and a penis flopping in the wind, gross sexual situations, and more.

It wasn't even funny since as Betsy Sharkey, LA Times Film Critic said best:

"Oh, what a headache-inducing, unapologetic money grab we have in "The Hangover Part II." By the time Bradley Cooper's Phil says, "You know the drill," and the guys start emptying their pockets in search of clues to the latest debacle, you'll be more inclined to groan than giggle."

Read the entire review here by clicking the title: Movie review: 'The Hangover Part II' The sequel seems more interested in box-office loot than laughs. (MY THOUGHTS EXACTLY!!)

Bradley Cooper, left, Zach Galifianakis and Ed Helms star in "The Hangover II (Warner Bros. Pictures) May 26, 2011 By Betsy Sharkey, Los Angeles Times Film Critic

And here's a little highlight from the film you have yet to read or hear about it in the US. 

Stuntman's family 'angry over Hangover 2'

"The family of an Australian stuntman seriously injured while filming The Hangover 2 is angry that the stunt footage has been included in the trailer of the final film.

Last December, Scott McLean — the stunt double for actor Ed Helms — was left in a coma from a brain injury after performing on the set of the movie sequel filmed in Thailand, the Sun Herald reports.

During the scene, Helms' character sticks his head out of the car window during a chase through the streets of Bangkok and is then hit by an oncoming truck.

The car was meant to swerve away from the truck at the last minute but did not.

'To have that scene used in the preview is a real kick in the face to all those who know Scott. It is sickening to watch, as we all know what happens next,' his sister-in-law, Michelle McLean, told the Sun Herald."

Click here for the entire story: http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/movies/sickening-stunt-shocks-family-20110528-1f9ha.html

(TODD PHILIPS, WHERE'S YOUR HUMAN DECENCY? THIS IS MORE EVIDENCE OF YOU ONLY SEEKING THE ALMIGHTY DOLLAR RATHER THAN BEING HUMAN. Click the title and links to read the awful story. Why is no one covering this over here? Are you all so cowed by the adage, "This is Hollywood and the show must go on" you refuse to be decent? I don't get it.)

I don't normally always agree with the critics since I liked Knight and Day (which I found funny, creative, exciting, entertaining, clean, with beautiful locales... a total escape film which is why I go to the movies in the first place), but on Hangover II?

I agree wholeheartedly with the critics. (Click every Hangover II link I've posted to read a different reviewer's perspective since I was shocked to see how many panned this and thought you might enjoy reading the variety too. If you click the one in this section you will find Movieline's review which I thought was appropriately fitting The 9 Most Scathing Critical Responses to The Hangover Part II)

I read another Hangover II review where the critic said it was nothing more than a rehash of the jokes of the first one which may be why I didn't laugh as much or find this one as charming.

At all.

I especially loved Betsy's last line that she hopes this is the end of the line for such a film unless the accountants have a vote. Exactly. She's not the only critic, myself included, to say this either.

This is not what filmmaking should be about, but in Hollywood it so often is which is why I'm excited to work on the LA Film Fest to actually see art films that have meaning, soul, creativity, originality, and thought, rather than box office goals only.

But I digress.

What the other Hangover II reviewers don't mention, perhaps because they're so jaded they don't see it any more, but what struck me on this film and also in Old School, is the mean spiritedness and cold view of women Todd Phillips takes in every film.

I bet anything he watches tons of porn and as a result is embittered against women and detached from sexual situations that are realistic and humane.

Here's what the UK Independent Film Critic had to say about Hangover II, "The only difference is that The Hangover Part II is set in Bangkok, which is represented as one of the less salubrious Circles of Hell....This time, their ordeal is so grim that the film threatens to stop being a comedy and become a dark thriller with a few genitalia jokes thrown in."

Exactly.

It was so dark in moments it ceased being funny and you wondered why you were even watching and spent money to be subjected to it. I'm sure there are people who will see this film and think nothing of it, but it grieved my spirit to sit in front of teenage boys and realize this is how they will view women as they enter adulthood.

Why does NOW allow women to continually be portrayed as nothing more than hookers, sex objects, throw aways, etc in film? Why aren't they funding films with women directors, women screenwriters, and women actors? Why aren't they speaking out against Hollywood Directors who continue to portray women like this?

Perhaps they are and I don't know of it, but I doubt it. Why do men in Hollywood always dictate how women are portrayed? Why do we as women allow this to continue?

I see the roles and shows that are coming out now and almost every casting call on LA Casting is for sexual situations, sex talk, naked women, etc. When did this become the norm? Where's the real stories of women's experiences? Why are we allowing ourselves to be reduced to only our body parts so easily?

I was so angry leaving the theatre after wasting money on Hangover II I was tempted to begin producing films myself. I thought there has to be better stories out there. There have to be films with human qualities which uplift the human experience, rather than tear it down to it's basest level as this one did.

I know some of you have been reading my blog for awhile and noticed the pictures of certain porn stars I posted which probably has you confused. Let me explain. When I meet someone at a party, I see them as human first, their job second. I may not always agree with their lifestyle choices, but I respect them as human beings and they have value to me as people.

That's why when I met the woman who had been involved with margarita wrestling back when I was campaigning vigorously against it at a party recently, we were able to laugh, hug and accept we held different viewpoints once we figured out how we knew each other, and that was ok.

We're human. We're bound to hold different viewpoints because that's what makes life fun and interesting! What I think is sad are Dems who are so tightly wrapped up in their political identity they can't laugh at themselves and accept others who may hold a different viewpoint than their own.

Very sad commentary on life if you ask me. Life is bigger than politics people. Get over it! It's only politics...

However that said about that, I do not endorse, condone or support pornography at all.

Here's why: 

THE INDIVIDUAL AND PORNOGRAPHY

• Pornography is addictive, and neuroscientists are beginning to map the biological substrate of this addiction.
• Users tend to become desensitized to the type of pornorgraphy they use, become bored with it, and then seek more perverse forms of pornography.
• Men who view pornography regularly have a higher tolerance for abnormal sexuality, including rape, sexual aggression, and sexual promiscuity.
• Prolonged consumption of pornography by men produces stronger notions of women as commodities or as "sex objects."
• Pornography engenders greater sexual permissiveness, which in turn leads to a greater risk of out-of-wedlock births and STDs. These, in turn, lead to still more weaknesses and debilities.
• Child-sex offenders are more likely to view pornography regularly or to be involved in its distribution.

OTHER EFFECTS OF PORNOGRAPHY

• Many adolescents who view pornography initially feel shame, diminished self-confidence, and sexual uncertainty, but these feelings quickly shift to unadulterated enjoyment with regular viewing.

Want more reasons? Read this analysis by clicking the title:

THE EFFECTS OF PORNOGRAPHY ON INDIVIDUALS, MARRIAGE, FAMILY AND COMMUNITY By Patrick F. Fagan, Ph.D.

to fully understand what your pornography usage is doing to you and society as a whole as a result.

Did I say you? If the shoe fits...

You know who I'm talking to.

What I would love to see happen, but doubt it will ever happen in my lifetime, is to see more females involved in more aspects of filmmaking - creative development, pre-production, production and editing. We have a unique sensibility and ability to see when men have crossed the line many don't see because they're so far over it they don't even realize it exists any more. 

But it does. And it has. Todd Phillips is fooling himself if he really believes he knows when he's crossed a line because that line is so far crossed in Hangover II even all the critics are discussing it.

Don't believe me? Click on all the Hangover Part II links I've added since each one reflects a different reviewer's opinion.

That's why I am speaking out in hopes others will too. That's why I spoke out against margarita wrestling in Hermosa Beach when I learned they were filming it illegally without paying the city any taxes and exposing them to huge liabilities.

It's why I speak out against NOW for being only political, not really gender based equality any more when they allow people like Ed from MSNBC to get away with calling a conservative woman vile things with no recourse from them.

MSNBC's double standard on Ed Schultz's 'slut' disgrace MSNBC acts righteous at the sexist slur against Laura Ingraham, but the liberal network is a repeat enabler of casual misogyny

Where's the gender equality in that? Total BS. I wouldn't join such a biased organization as NOW if you paid me. When you defend all women equally, not only those who support a certain political viewpoint, then maybe.

But now? NEVER!

I believe it's an outdated organization that needs to be revamped and rehauled to reflect who they really are, an arm of the Democrat party only. Rather than NOW, they should rename themselves NOD - National Organization of Democrats. It's more accurate and reflects their base and core values because they sure as hell aren't reflecting mine or all women.

I'll never forget how brave I thought the former President of NOW, Shelly Mandel, was to speak on the same platform as Sarah Palin when she first came out on the political arena. I wondered if she knew she was committing political suicide in that organization to stand with someone who reflected gender equality, yet didn't reflect their politics.

Made me smile and proud of her for being bold and standing up for what was right and ground-breaking for all women, a woman running for the highest office of the land.

Don't believe it really happened? Read this article: 

LA NOW Prez on Palin: 'America, This is What a Feminist Looks Like'

"Shelly Mandel, the president of the Los Angeles chapter of the National Organization for Women introduced Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin over the weekend in California, speaking not on behalf of NOW but 'as an individual, as a woman's rights activist for 30 years who has worked for all those years to see this day.'

Going through her feminist bona fides -- the International Women's Year, the Equal Rights Amendment, Geraldine Ferraro -- Mandell said she is 'proud to support Sarah Palin, a woman who will fight for women's rights ... a woman who will, Lord knows, shake things up.'

'Make no mistake,' Mandell said. 'I'm a life-long Democrat ... I don't agree with Gov. Palin on several issues.' And yet, she said, 'I know Sarah Palin cares about women’s rights, she cares about equality, she cares about equal pay, and as Vice President she will fight for it. She cares about our children and she cares about women's lives. She's an athlete and she knows what Title Nine did for girls like her.'"

It didn't take CA NOW long to denounce her though: NOW PAC Supports Obama/Biden Ticket, Not Palin I've always wondered if Shelly Mandel is still with the organization any more. If you know let me know. Very curious.:)

That's all I really wanted to say. It's time for women to speak up and take back our "image" on the big screen, the media and politics. It's time for more women to be willing to speak out against pornography and gender bias in all aspects of life, not just those that fit neatly in a group think situation.

Don't just complain among your friends if you don't like something.

Write letters to the editor of your local papers. Call your congressmen and senators to complain. Boycott films like Hangover II. Make your voice heard.

"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing." (Edmund Burke)  Click the quote to read  an interesting article on the subject.

Your voice can make a difference. Speak now, or forever live with the consequences. 

Now this is what they should teach two and five year olds

Not gender diversity... C'mon now. Get our children real education - reading, writing and arithmetic first!
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How I'm spending my Saturday - #holiday #relaxing

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And Action! Fun in the hills #drama #acting

This is a quirky project with really great people involved. I'm having fun (although maybe just a wee bit embarrassed too! LMBO) and looking forward to seeing the final result.

Nice to do activities off-hours and after work which are team-oriented.
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@tiffanypollard says, "New York" and Kai happened one night!

Aren't they the greatest? Digging the medieval looks my two new friends, "New York" aka Tiffany and Kai are sporting for tonight's shoot.

This kinda stuff cracks me up! I am surrounded by creativity in a stunning modern mansion high in the hills of Hollywood across the street from an Oscar-winning Director.

We're feeling inspired now!:) http://thejoywriter.com

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Dear Oprah - I'm going to miss you

Dear Oprah,

I know I haven't watched your show as regularly as some of your more faithful fans. I've only written you a few times too. I only buy your magazines when I find the topic of interest. I never made it out to watch your show in person even though it was on my bucket list.

However, your influence in my life as a strong female role-model is written on my life forever. Here's my quick love letter to you for all you've done for so many women, men and me over the years.

I think it's wonderful how you have lived an abundant life despite your childhood experiences and shown people how to live their abundant lives too. I also have always enjoyed your interviews with celebrities because you humanize them and allow us to see sides of public figures they don't normally reveal because they trust you.

Although I don't always agree with your politics, I do love you! I'm going to miss turning you on when I am home working and just wanted to say God bless you.

Thank you for your dedication, diligence, grace, humility, confidence, business sense, humor, sophistication, motivation, exhortations, positive messages, surprises, love, honesty, fashion, responsiblity, strength, empowerment, belief in others, encouragement, excitement, joy, support, tears, heart, insights, advice, wisdom, patience, inspiration, influence, role modeling, generosity, and so much more.

We will miss you. Thank you! Now I must find another tissue because I need to wipe my tears again. 

God bless,

Joy Kennelly

Your infrequent fan

The Hangover II or Lady Gaga CD Release Party?

Decisions, decisions...:)
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Fun hanging w/Erica, Liz, Damien at the W #Bob Dylan

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Happy Birthday Bob Dylan from Liz & Joy!

You are a cultural icon and we all love you very much!
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Me and Damien Earl Matthias after class at Musicians Institute tonight

Really fun having him speak. The students love hearing his stories and insights too.
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Grammy Award-winning Musician/Producer & Filmmaker, Damien Earl Matthias discussing music videos & music industry

Damien has been in the music industry since he was 16 years old when he started with LL Cool J and Def Jam.

We've been friends for over 10 years and even I'm learning things about his career I didn't know.:)

Very determined entreprenuer.
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Grammy Award-winning artist/producer Damien Earl Matthias speaking to MI student, Capri of Street of Dreams

Just wrapped up the class and Damien spoke on creating videos for artists like Tupac, Snoop Dogg, Big Mike and more.

It was fun to let the students hear the hop hop/rap perspective on the music industry because you rarely hear it in business seminars unless it's included in a special hip hop/rap conference etc. He's coming back tomorrow night to speak to my other class. http://thejoywriter.com

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@jtimberlake & @ladygaga are hilarious on #SNL pic

I knew this was one finale I didn't want to miss. LOLing all the time... Here's a link to Justin Timberlake's official presentation if you missed any part or just want to relive the humor of one of the highest watched SNL shows in 7 years! http://justintimberlake.com/news/video_highlights_snl_season_finale_hosted_by_justin

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Bye @letsbefrank and Corey Helford Gallery #art #hotdogs

Very interesting art and eclectic crowd. http://thejoywriter.com

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Firemen art :) at Corey Helford Gallery

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Girls Love the Way He Spins by Isabel Samaras #art @coreyhelfordgallery

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Sarah Folkman's "Glider" is my favorite artist at Corey Helford Gallery & Derek Goes of Goes Photography is my favorite photojournalist right now #art

It's oil on rosewood and I love how she incorporates the wood's artistry into her work.

My friend, Janet Gervers of Jag Media, and I liked this picture of hers too. Corey Helford Gallery Director has exquisite taste and always brings it. They will be celebrating their five year anniversary in July. Mark your calendars to attend this not to be missed celebration.

Picture courtesy of Derek Goes of Goes Photography. Isn't this a cool effect? I had no idea how talented and experienced Derek was when we met because he's so low-key and gentle in person. His style of photography is so casual and nonchalent as if he's not really shooting which makes you relax.

Check out his website again here: http://www.goesphotography.com/ or email him here: derek(at)goesphotography(dot)com

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#Marco Brambilla: The Dark Lining @SMMoA #art

Really interesting and unique video installation which you must wear 3D glasses to fully appreciate. So, if you stole some from the theatres recently put 'em on to view, but just know it's much more amazing in person.

Unlike anything I've seen in awhile. Very cool.
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@USA_Network enjoyed Character Project @thebrigvenice - thanks!

What I love about LA is you can drive through any neighborhood and stumble upon something interesting and out-of-the-ordinary happening.

Today, I drove from Santa Monica to Venice heading home and decided, on a whim, to visit Abbot Kinney since I hadn't driven down it in awhile and was curious what it was like during a Saturday day.

As I was getting ready to leave the Blvd, I looked over and there, smack dab in the parking lot of The Brig, was this huge green container which you see in the pic.

Naturally, it caught my attention and I had to pull over to find out what it was all about.

Turns out USA Network, RSA Films, Ridley & Tony Scott are presenting Character Project - 8 Directors. 8 short films. Every character has a story.

When I saw Ridley & Tony's name combined with Vanity Fair attached I broke my rule of avoiding short films, parked and enjoyed three quickies.:)

Great promotion by "The All-New CT Hybrid and Lexus" (or is that a Lexus? Hard to tell.) and a fun way to spend a couple minutes.

I caught Fish, which foodies would love as it traces a day in the life of Chef Jon Shook, "best known for his carnivore-pleasing creations at the L.A. Hotspot Animal;" Monster Slayer by Caskey which was whimsical; and Perfect by Amie Steir which had a cute plot twist.

It's a traveling show and if you're lucky enough to live in Chicago, you will be able to catch the tour Sat & Sun, June 4th & 5th at the Hancock Building from 10am - 7pm.

The rest of us Angelenos can still catch it till 8pm tonight and again, tomorrow from 10am - 8pm at The Brig in Venice.

For those of you out-of-state, USA Network doesn't want you to miss out either. Catch it online at characterproject.usanetwork.com

I plan to watch the rest of the short films later tonight when I return from my art evening before catching the SNL finale and Lady GaGa.:)

I love days like this. A little film, a little fashion, a little fitness, a little art, and a little boob tube. All I'm missing is a little music. My kind of relaxing weekend.

Now if only I had someone special to spend it with life would be complete.:)
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Simple Swimwear fashion show @Shape_Magazine Bikini Tour

This is so cute. The announcer is telling us who wore the bikini on what cover and then a fun fact on the healthy eating habits of each star as the models parade around in the cold weather.:)

Fuscia and orange together and salmon seems popular, red is "such a vibrant color," ruffles, string bikinis, "solids are so great" and asymmetrical sundresses in white or crochet graced the runway.

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Spin & Win benefits Skin Cancer Research Foundation @Shape_Magazine

I went back and found out the organization name I donated to was Skin Cancer Research Foundation.

Won some fun stuff again which makes it all good.:) Now to see the bikini fashion show...
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And one more, two more @Shape_Magazine Bikini Body tour

Personally, I'm waiting for the chair massage.
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@Shape_Magazine Bikini Body Tour is buzzing with activity in Santa Monica

I just won a Philips Bikini Perfect Grooming Kit. Now I have "spa-at-home convenience, easy-to-use attachments for triming, shaping and shaving that is safe, smooth and painless." Just what I always wanted! Lol My donation when I did the spin to win helps support skin cancer research. Funny though, no organization name given and no volunteer knew either. Hmmmm If you hurry, you can catch the 3pm bikini fashion show or the Equinox final work-outs. http://thejoywriter.com

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Just another gorgeous day in #Santa Monica

Off to the Shape Magazine event. Missed Kim Kardashian most likely, but lots of other fun stuff to experience.

Guys, you're missing out!:) http://thejoywriter.com

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Torrance Armed Forces Day again - remembering our vets

And seeing some cool machinery up close and personal. Guess it's today and tomorrow with the big armed forces parade on Saturday.

My friend Brenda and I went last year, but this year am hitting Shape's bikini event at Santa Monica because I'm a sucker for a goodie bag.:)

Then, a little volunteer mtg for LA Film Fest followed by an art opening. What's your skd?

Happy Friday! http://thejoywriter.com

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Gleam Body Make-up Launch Party at Redbury - #sexy!:)

Had such a nice time. This pic is for all the males who read my blog.:) And for the ladies, just think, you can have Body Gleam in light, dark and darker applications to create a smooth, even skin tone that is soft and flawless.

I'm happy to finally have a product to make my legs stop looking like Casper the Ghost myself.:)

Must go. After two cosmos a little tipsy and am enjoying a few sliders to help sober up.

Buy Gleam here: www.bodygleambymelaniemills.com

I love how I'm meeting more and more empowered, motivated, accomplished female entrepreneurs! It's about time! I was getting lonely at the top. TOTALLY KIDDING!!!

Have a good one. I am. I needed a fun night like this. Thanks ladies!
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It's a #DWTS night! Anna Trebunskaya - so adorable!!!

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Dancing With The Stars former Makeup Artist, Melanie Mills and Dancer, Anna #DWTS

Megan and I are having such a nice time. We love this product and everyone is so gracious.

We wish Melanie much success with her new Gleam body makeup. Pick it up at Studio DNA. Tell Danny Joy sent you. http://thejoywriter.com

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Makeup Artist Melanie Mills' Gleam Body Radiance Launch party

Melanie Mills was the head makeup artist for Dancing with the Stars and couldn't find a good body makeup for dancers which is why she created this.

My long-time Hairstylist friend, Danny LeClair of Studio DNA, says, "Gleam Body Radiance is a finishing lotion which gives the skin a velvety sheen which helps bring out your natural beauty."

We tried it and recommend Light Gold and Rose Gold for blondes and redheads. Whereas, Bronze Gold and Dark Gold are good for all other skin tones.

Danny carries Melanie's wonderful products at either of his two Studio DNA locations, Santa Monica and Hollywood. He and I have known each other since Yelp launched using his salon as a venue. Good fun!

You might recognize my petite redhead actress friend, Megan Duffy, as she is appearing on Torchwood across from Bill Pullman.

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We're all just dancing now! Such a fun volunteer gig #FMSC

I volunteered with Journey last year with Feed My Starving Children and it really makes you feel good to know you're helping children eat all around the world.

This shift we packed 79 boxes which equals 17,064. Total for the weekend? We all packed 154,000!!!

46 is how many children we have prepared to feed a child a meal a day for an entire year. God bless all the world and especially the poor and the hungry.

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Happy volunteers helping Feed My Starving Children

Go to www.fmsc.org for more information if you want to donate or host a similar event at your venue!

Tons of fun and time flies cuz there's a DJ playing music with infectious beats. And just think, we've packed 150,000 packages of food over this weekend at Journey of Faith which will be distributed all over the world!

They gave out 127 million packages last year alone. Help Feed My Starving Children! Wonderful charity! http://thejoywriter.com

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Journey Volunteers in Action

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#Feed My Starving Children final volunteer shift - come on down!

Journey of Faith is located on PCH and Artesia at 1243 Artesia in Manhattan Beach and is hosting Feed My Starving Children.

We're packaging food for Korean children in need. Come on over if you're not doing anything and want to do something good for our world!:)
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Nutrition Health & Sport's Open House today now!

Really nice people. I recognized one of the female bodybuilders from an art opening at a Beverly Hills gallery which escapes me. Not Gagosian, the one on Wilshire with great art too. It was a photography exhibit of all these amazing body builders who then came out and posed for the guests.

Awesome party. Wish I could remember the name. Mayor Villaroigosa attended...
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Malibu Pier at dusk - waving hi to Ashton & Demi...:)

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Political Cartoonist, Ramirez, gets it right every time. Must see comic...

Aint this the truth? How's the hope and change working out for ya? That's all I want to know...

Time for more hope and less change I think. http://thejoywriter.com

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Sunset over the Santa Monica Mountains...

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Enjoying Mother's Day @YellowVase in PV - so lovely

Just what the doctor ordered. Mom likes her gifts too. Life is good.
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Happy Birthday Thai and Steve!! Thanks Lotus! #Hermosa

Lotus is my former neighbor from Hermosa who married Steve and throws fun house parties. Her son and husband celebrated birthdays tonight. Delicious Thai food, sweet people and fun times...
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Lotus' Thai Town Party - my favorite #Hermosa people

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#Beastie Boys Billboard

I like this. I saw it painted on a wall, but it was painted over today which made me want to share this with you before it too is removed.

I like their music...
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"Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin it now." words to live by...

By Joy A. Kennelly

What I always find interesting is watching group think in action; whether it be in school, work, TV, film, or on any of the social media platforms I regularly frequent. Makes me wonder where critical thinking has gone in our society when basic truths that are easily proven accurate are disregarded because no one wants to rock the boat, research their beliefs, or go against the common opinion.

Even when it's wrong.

Now I understand where Bob Lefsetz is coming from when he challenges musicians to create a revolution. I find that young people today that I have met seem shocked when anyone stands up against the status quo, or speaks out against group think.

I'm finding it more and more on Facebook, Yelp, and now even Posterous which is nothing more than censorship in its worst form. Where's public discourse?  Where's the opportunity to explore opinions other's might hold to see how well your own hold up against scrutiny or discussion? Where's the freedom and competition to do business when only certain businesses are allowed?

Isn't this what America is built upon? Isn't this what our original founders came to America to enjoy? Freedom of speech, opportunity and religion? I find it disturbing when only one side is allowed to be represented and will always speak out.

I find when I do, sometimes I help change people's opinions, sometimes I help others to be bolder, and sometimes I help others to understand the other side a little better. 

Then other times, I see close-minded, small-minded and insecure people who can do nothing more than attack me and others on the internet, before running away to hide from a response for fear of someone actually challenging them or causing them to actually think. 

It's rather humorous actually which is why I don't mind because their cowardice and pettiness reflects more on them than it ever will me. What you see is what you get and that's why I continue to have liberal friends as well as conservative ones. They know I'm fair and they can trust me to always speak the truth. Even when they may not agree with me.

There's a mutual respect.

If we continue to be a PC society and only allow one side to have a voice, then pretty soon we won't be America. I encourage all start-ups, social media sites, newspapers, media in general, and others who hold sway over the general public's information business offerings, politics and education to consider the fact we are a stronger, better educated, more accepting and better prepared country as a whole when there is balance in information and opportunity.

Accept the fact you may not always agree with someone else. That's life. Get on with it. Value diversity of opinion and thought because often those in society who challenge status quo create greater opportunities than those who don't. 

There are other ways of doing things than your own if you open your mind and your heart to it. We are all unique and special. Allow your uniqueness to shine through and stop allowing yourself to be cowed into submission by group think and doing something just because everyone else is doing it. 

Just because everyone else is doing it doesn't make it right. Only safe.

Live dangerously. Speak out against injustice. Live with the consequences of your decisions. Accept responsiblity. Stop blaming others for your lack of success.

Create your own. 

You will find those who agree with you and support your decisions. And generally they are the leaders who have withstood criticism, blame, personal attacks, and everything else those who live in fear and group think will throw at you to keep you down.

But when you get past the personal disappointment of experiencing those cowards for who they really are, then you begin to live a life that is on a different level with more evolved, more intelligent, more courageous, more satisfied people who are on the same level and path as you.

Or, as Henry David Thoreau so eloquently stated it, "Most men lead lives of quiet desperation and go to their graves with their song still in them." 

Don't be one of those men (or women.) Live your life. Be fully human and alive. Be fair and respectful. Make tough decisions and stick to them. Those who disagree now will always come around later. I've seen it happen time and again.

Time heals all wounds and wounds all heels.:)

And lastly, be bold. 

"Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin it now.”

I read that quote years ago and love it to this day. It's been true in my life and so many others. I'm not sure who wrote it, but it's brilliant which is why I'm sharing it here today.

That's all. Now enjoy your day. That's an order.:)

 

Vintage Bookends/Simon & Garfunkle #music

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Cool camera collection at my friend's house

Recognize the Brownie? http://thejoywriter.com

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The road to hell...

I like this street, don't you?:)
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Bin Laden Dead Front Page news!

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What South Bay event would happen without one of these?

There's lots of booths and children's activities too.:) http://thejoywriter.com

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