Don't miss the Master Connector Conference Cruise to Bermuda with Host, Steve Spiro!

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Steve Spiro, the host of the Master Connector Show, invites you to join him aboard the Norwegian Joy on a 5-day cruise to Bermuda from New York City for a life-changing experience.

You will learn firsthand:

◊ How to connect authentically

◊ The value of being others focused

◊ What it takes to have the grit to overcome obstacles

◊ How to build a community and grow your connections

Hear Steve Spiro's heart for your success straight from his mouth in this quick highlight reel:

Make lifelong friends, develop new business connections, and gain new skills, all while having fun in the sun in Bermuda and cruising aboard the Norwegian Joy.

By the end of this amazing experience, you’ll understand why… “in our weakness there’s power."

Jump

What are you waiting for? Jump into this new self-development experience and change your life!

Watch this video to see highlights of the cruise to Bermuda and what you have to look forward to onboard the Norwegian Joy!

Steve's interactive conference incorporates activities on the ship to enhance your learning and further develop the skills you're gaining through his teaching.

 

RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY!

ITINERARY

Date Location Arrive Depart
9/20/2023 New York   Depart 4 PM
9/21/2023 At Sea    
9/23/2023 Bermuda Arrive 8 AM  
9/24/2023 Bermuda   Depart 5 PM
9/25/2023 New York Arrive 7 AM  
 

PER-PERSON PRICING (BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY)

Inside Cabin Interior $1350.00 including conference, port fees, and taxes
Balcony Cabin Balcony $1650.00 including conference, port fees, and taxes

 

Each room package includes the conference, shipboard accommodations, ocean transportation, entertainment and daily activities, onboard meals, and some beverages and is available exclusively through Joy's Travel Adventures Agency.

Shore excursions, personal expenses, gratuities, and alcoholic beverages are available at an added cost based on personal preferences. Free at Sea specials are available. 

DON'T MISS OUT! BOOK NOW!

If you are booking a cabin with 3 or 4 persons the deposit is $500 PER CABIN. Otherwise, all Deposits for Double Cabins are $150 Per Person and due asap.

FINAL PAYMENT DUE FOR ALL CABINS FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2023. We can help you find a compatible roommate too.


Here's an inspirational story I think you might enjoy! Only 16 years old Kheris Rogers is amazing!

I was pitched this inspirational story and think letting her tell it in her own words is more powerful than anything I could write. Enjoy the read!

My name is Kheris Rogers. I am a 16-year-old Author, Activist and Business Owner.

I would like to talk to you about my children’s book “Shine Bright”, which addresses racism and colorism. It reflects my true life experiences when I was 10 years old and was bullied for my dark skin complexion. This book is my way of helping kids who are the age I was when I was first bullied to cope and to believe in their beauty and abilities (even when the world doesn’t).

“Shine Bright” is available wherever books are sold and is published by HarperCollins.

My business, Flexin in My Complexion is the apparel line I launched after being teased for having dark skin. My grandma always proudly said we’re “Flexin in Our Complexion”, my sister posted me on social media after I’d been bullied and said she’s “Flexin in her Complexion”. I had launched my T-shirt line by the time my sister posted me. Was getting baptized while she did it. We sold out in 10 minutes! Apparently lot,s of people could relate to my experience and it made them not feel “alone”. This is when I knew my purpose.

I launched my foundation, the Kheris Rogers Foundation, to provide support to Black boys and girls. Our first event was a “Back to School” event where we gave away over 1000 backpacks and supplies!

My foundation just came off a 2-month social justice campaign with a free teen summit in February and a multigenerational community round table celebrating Women’s History Month. We reached hundreds of boys, girls, and, women with messages of hope. How to navigate social media. Mental health awareness. Entrepreneurship. And loving the skin you’re in, even when the world doesn’t.

Turns out I’m the youngest designer (so far) to present during New York Fashion Week and we are hoping to return this fall. I also walked the catwalk for other designers who I love and can’t wait to collaborate with more amazing artists and creators for New York, Paris, and London fashion week events (possibly Milan, we’re working on it).

 


Join Joy's Travel Adventures Agency at The Granada Theatre Bazaar Sunday, April 16, 2023 from 1 pm - 5 pm.

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By Joy A. Kennelly

I'm having a good time planning events to promote my Alpine, TX community, other local small businesses, my travel business, and all the amazing suppliers I have the privilege of working with. Here's an event I've joined that maybe if you're in West Texas or looking for a fun road trip to a small Texas town, you will consider attending!

Joy's Travel Adventures End LogoAnd in case we haven't met, let me introduce myself. My name is Joy Kennelly I'm a Travel Advisor and Certified Cruise & Group Specialist running Joy’s Travel Adventures Agency under my host agency Cruises & Tours Unltd. Review the latest travel specials on my website here: https://www.joystraveladventuresagency.com

I will have a booth showcasing Sandal's Resorts with Porter's sponsored free cupcakes and MSC Cruise swag at The Granada Theatre Bazaar this Sunday, April 16, 2023, from 1 pm - 5 pm CDT which is located at 207 East Holland Ave in the heart of Alpine, TX.

Granada Theatre Bazaar offers free admission to residents and visitors to shop locally and support small businesses. Find handmade crafts, unique gifts, delicious treats, and one-of-a-kind treasures. For more information: https://www.granadatheatre.events/

To further entice you to visit, our Bazaar is happening during the Gem and Mineral Show which runs concurrently at a nearby venue from Friday, April 14 - Sunday, April 16, 2023.      

Pop by my booth to pick up information and learn about exclusive travel packages to Sandals Resorts while enjoying a delicious cupcake sponsored by Porter’s Grocery Store. I also just received swag from MSC Cruises and have cruise discounts available to offer teachers, military, and first responders. I work with all cruise lines and all-inclusive resorts too.

Sandals Resorts, one of the top-rated all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean for 26 years in-a-row, is partnering with Joy’s Travel Adventures Agency to offer special offers and discounts on luxury vacation packages available at Saint Lucia, Jamaica, Antigua, The Bahamas, Grenada, Barbados, andCuracao.

Sandals Resorts is a leading destination for weddings and honeymoon packages and features unlimited gourmet dining, unique bars serving premium liquors and wines, and every land and water sport, including complimentary green fees at the golf resorts and PADI -certified scuba diving for all who vacation there. First responders, military, and others who serve receive an additional 10% discount. Click here for more info.

Porter’s Grocery Store recently relocated and opened two brand new stores in Fort Davis and Alpine, TX. The Alpine bakery is available for specialty cakes and other baked goods upon request until fully operational. The deli and the rest of each store operate daily in both locations.

Joy's Travel Adventures Agency offers a front-row seat and introduction to all the latest travel, style, and lifestyle recommendations for travelers. Let me help plan your business travel, group travel, vacations, all-inclusive resorts, cruises, and more!

Joy Kennelly has lived and traveled all over the United States and traveled throughout 27 countries, and four continents. She has also worked for Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, J.W. Marriott, and Wyndham Hotels, giving her a professional insider perspective on travel. As a travel agent working with a team of travel professionals, she and her team are excited to design the perfect trip for you. Call today!

For more information: contact Joy A. Kennelly at 310 483-6441

or email [email protected] or visit https://joystraveladventuresagency.com/ and https://linktr.ee/joystraveladventures


Flash Sale! Cruise to the Mexican Riviera with @JTAAgency Group 9/9 - 9/16/23! #cruise #travel #sale

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If all this sounds good to you, let's talk. Space is limited and filling up fast. The initial fully refundable deposit is $250/pp or a non-refundable deposit of $50 is due by April 5, 2023. Payment plans are available and the final payment is due June 1, 2023. Our balcony rate of $1049.20 is the best price on the ship, includes all on-board dining and activities and actually beats interior stateroom prices right now. Balconies are prime real estate so book your spot quick!

Look forward to having you aboard! Join our group and enjoy all the perks of group travel vs solo travel on a cruise. Happy to help you find a berth mate if you're traveling solo and families and couples welcome too. 

Call or text #Cruise to 310 483-6441. Happy to answer any questions too. 


Remembering Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (Habitat LA) 2023 Los Angeles Builders Ball® Presented by City National Bank

By Joy A. Kennelly

When I was in California, I was invited to a very special fundraiser called Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (Habitat LA) 2023 Los Angeles Builders Ball® Presented by City National Bank. It was just before the Oscars and because my client at the time didn't want to do any of the Oscar gifting suites this year, and didn't get accepted into the events I pitched him to, it was going to be a very quiet Oscar season until this invite came along.

I knew it was going to be special because everyone knows what Habit for Humanity does to bless people who need a lift up in society, and in case you're one of the few who don't, this non-profit builds homes for disadvantaged people. Many of the stories shared that night resonated with me because I've been without a place to live in the past and it was very heartwarming to see and hear the life-changing stories of people whose lives were forever changed by having a home to call their own.

I feel blessed to have an apartment to call home here in Alpine, TX because it's large enough to hold all my kitchen appliances, and all the belongings I collected from my storage in GA and CA this past December. I even have an office to work from but choose often just to sit in the living room on the couch because that's what I'm used to. I now even have two pull-out couches in case anyone ever wants to come to visit, even though one needs feet attached to make it suitable. I have living room furniture, not something I've always had everywhere I've lived, which makes me happy. Now I just need a dining room table and then I'll be settled, but for now, TV tables are working fine.:)

But I digress.

The evening honored the Property Brothers Drew & Jonathan ScottMattel, and The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company; featured red carpet arrivals, a spirited live auction, and exciting live entertainment by Award-winning singer, songwriter, and actress, Andra Day. Habitat LA raised $925,000 to help fuel the organization's efforts to build and preserve affordable housing during the 2023 Los Angeles Builders Ball®, the organization's largest annual fundraiser. Aptly themed "Rise Up," the annual 'party-with-a-purpose'  drew numerous celebrities and Habitat LA supporters whose names are listed below:

Chandra Wilson (2022 Habitat LA Dream Builder Recipient, Grey's Anatomy); Zooey Deschanel (New Girl, Physical); Linda Phan; James Pickens, Jr. (Grey's Anatomy), Tina Knowles Lawson (Designer/Philanthropist); Sugar Ray Leonard (Boxing Legend/Commentator); Glynn Turman (Actor/Producer); Loni Love (Award-winning TV Host); Linda and Amir Mathis (Reality TV personalities); Kelly Jenrette (The CW’s All-American: Homecoming); Geffri Maya (The CW’s All-American: Homecoming); Kate Linder (Young and the Restless); Byron and CeCe Scott (NBA LA Lakers Legend); Chaz Shepherd (The Marvin Sapp Story); Alex Rose Wiesel (Hotel Du Loone); Nneka Ogwumike, WNBA Player, LA Sparks; Tessa Farrell (HBO's Entourage, Cinema Rebel);Teal Swan (Hulu); Adit Dileep (Succession, Billions); Ava Otto (CBS' Come Dance With Me); Angell Conwell (The Young and The Restless); Daniele Lawson (King Richard); Breegan Jane (Extreme Makeover Home Edition); Kim Coles (Living Single, Tyler Perry's House of Payne); Areva Martin (CNN Legal Analyst); Anthony Bless (BET+ Ruthless); KiKi Shephard (Showtime at the Apollo); Petri Hawkins Byrd (Bailiff, Judge Judy); teen fashion entrepreneur and activist Kheris Rogers; Angelique Bates (Nickelodeon's All That); and Adrian Dev (Obi-Wan Kenobi).

Local political figures Janice Hahn (Chair, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors), and Lindsey Horvath (Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors) also showed up to lend their support.
 

I enjoyed hearing Janice Hahn speak because I've met her and politicked against her in the past, but what's nice is we've always been professionally respectful. She's always been there to help whenever I needed help with some government agency proving that despite our opposite political views, you can get along and help someone if you have personal integrity.

I've found that to be true over the years in politics because everyone seems to realize that ultimately, despite a difference of opinion, we all are trying to work for the better good and need to work together to accomplish whatever it is we're trying to do no matter what side of the aisle we're on. And when people don't understand that, they generally don't stay in office very long. 

Even mega-watt action star Vin Diesel made a surprise appearance, stating "Habitat keep doing what you're doing..." in a social post captured by Habitat LA Celebrity Ambassador Loni Love, who used her powerful voice and extensive social networks to amplify Habitat LA's mission throughout the evening's festivities. I had been part of his last Fast & Furious film as drunk girl #1 and wish I would have seen him to say hi.
 
Performer Andra Day noted, "I'm excited for Habitat LA to continue their work, and I feel blessed to be a part of what they are doing. So, even if it's singing, I'm just happy to be here helping." She was absolutely amazing! What a voice! 
 
To former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, an unparalleled Habitat Global Humanitarian who has poured so much into the organization, Day sent a special message to him in hospice: "Thank you so much for putting many hours into this organization. You've changed lives and policies as well."
 
The ones who stood out to me were the Property Brothers, Drew, and Jonathan Scott, because they are just solid people and really cared about the cause. So many celebrities attend fundraisers in Hollywood just to have their picture taken and to boost their own careers, but it was obvious listening to these two, that this charity meant something to each of them.
 
They donated money, they volunteer, they support this effort in any way they can and it was really heartwarming. All of the participants and honorees were very involved and doing it because they believed in it which was really wonderful to hear and see.
 
Global Habitat Humanitarians Drew and Jonathan Scott -- recipients of the Dream Builder Award -- expressed gratitude and appreciation for their role in helping Habitat empower families and build strength and stability in our communities through homeownership.
 
"You know we have the best job in the world," said Drew. "There’s nothing better than that feeling of watching the family walking into their new home -- especially their first home -- and seeing it for the first time. The happiness that you feel in that moment... you can see all over their faces this is changing their lives. It is something that absolutely warms my heart."
 
"We are making dreams come true," added Jonathan. "It’s priceless."
 
Leading global toy company, Mattel, was recognized with the Foundation Builder Award; and construction firm The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company was named the 2023 Builder of the Year. 

I shared many highlights of the event throughout the evening on my Tiktok feed which you can see here: https://www.tiktok.com/@joystraveladventures

I know I use that word often, but there really is no other word to describe kind, caring, honest, loving men and women standing up to do the right thing for those less fortunate. Fame has a funny way of bringing out the best and worst in people and so far, I've only seen the good in the Property Brothers.

I'm happy that Zooey Deschanel has found love again with Jonathan. It was fun to see her in the audience. I was waiting on my car at the valet when Drew and his wife Linda came out for their car too. He was polite and posed for a photo with a fan. Nice guys all around.

It was very nice to be part of that special evening and I hope you will consider supporting their efforts. I also hope we can look at those less fortunate with kinder eyes because everyone is fighting a battle you may know nothing about.

And kindness matters. 


My take on Silicon Valley Bank failure, gender bias in small business funding by VC's, Investors, Banks and my Dad.

By Joy A. Kennelly

I had an interesting chat with a Wells Fargo Bank Board Member on my flight recently in light of the crash of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB). He said as a Board Member, he is held liable for the decisions of his bank and as a result, he is very concerned about how it is run. He felt that the SVB board of directors should be sued and/or go to jail because of the collapse. 

I didn't realize he worked for Wells Fargo when we started speaking and said I didn't like their fees. I'm sure he was happy hearing that. LOL The conversation did peter out rather early come to think of it.

Then, I read this article in Tech Crunch entitled, Women-founded startups raised 1.9% of all VC funds in 2022, a drop from 2021This makes my blood boil as a former female founder because when I was involved it was 4%. Even that was terrible back then, but what gives white rich guys? Because this is your fault, nobody else's.

"Last year, U.S. startups with all-women teams received 1.9% (or around $4.5 billion) out of around the $238.3 billion in venture capital allocated, according to the latest PitchBook data."

Then I read this article entitled,  Mpls business owner on why the Silicon Valley Bank collapse is hurting women-owned business, and I see that this bank actually tried to do the right thing and support female-run, minority-run businesses. But the author points out that this is rare in the banking world and I quote, 

"Many folks don't realize that women founders specifically are underbanked. In the United States, the World Economic Forum suggests that there's about $300 billion worth of small businesses run by women across this country that have not been able to get proper access to financial instruments that help every business run."

And here's more data this author provides in the article,

"When you look at the data, Silicon Valley Bank actually put $17.5 million into Black and Latinx founders last year to help support that underbanked population as well, this isn't just a female founder issue. This is basically an issue for any founder who is not a white man in America."

When will women ever be treated fairly and judged on other merits rather than male-dominated versions of what will create success? Women may appear riskier in certain perspectives, but then, why is this not taken into consideration? According to Prowess, the following facts are stated in their article: FACTS ABOUT WOMEN IN BUSINESS

  • Around 30% of all US businesses are majority female-owned. The number of women-owned businesses continues to grow at twice the rate of all US firms, and they are increasing in economic clout.
  • Women also bring a diversity dividend as non-executive directors of companies: gender-balanced boards are more successful than mono-cultural boards on every measure. (McKinsey & Co 2007).
  • Placing greater value on female-dominated personal and social services, community and social services is an important part of decoupling prosperity from pollution-based growth. (‘Prosperity without Growth’, Jackson, 2009).
  • Increasing numbers of women are studying science, engineering and technology (SET) degrees, but over 70% drop out of SET careers, compared with half of men. This is a huge waste of investment, talent and opportunity, especially as the key challenges of our time – renewable energy, food security, medical advances – require diversity of technical and societal engagement. (UKRC for women in SET 2011)

Ironically, my Dad holds this exact same bias with me and my sisters. Because my youngest sister is married to a man who makes 6 figures, my Dad has opted to loan them money to build a real estate EMPIRE at a measly 1% interest rate. Yes, it's varied all the way up to 5% sometimes, but the majority of the time, it's a simple 1% which is worse than what a bank would offer him if he just stuck it in a savings account. AND they're not charged for insurance, experience no penalty for late payments, and so far there's been no oversight, just here's my money...

My middle sister has paid thousands of dollars in interest on her home in Austin and she feels the same way as I do about how Dad discriminates against us both. It's his era mindset to undermine single females, but what's the excuse of the tech and banking world I wonder. Many white men were raised by single white mothers, yet they think all women are meant to struggle all their lives. 

I only recently discovered my sister's travesty while helping my Dad get his trust organized and was appalled to discover that ALL his money is tied up in Glori and Dwayne's real estate dealings.

This means, now that he's ready for assisted living or any other medical option he may need, Glori, will need to sell off a real estate holding before he will have money to cover his care because she's not liquid enough to give him the settlement of the remaining balance of the loan without doing so.

It makes me mad, but it also is heartbreaking to me to learn how she has, in my mind, taken advantage of him all this time. And that he goes along with it like a horse following a carrot held out in front of him. What has he really gained from this transaction? What benefit has he personally received by giving all his money to Glori? Other than her calling him to stay in touch and her jumping when the next funds are available? Does he relive his real estate glory days? Does he enjoy feeling he's still in the real estate game? What is the benefit?

When I challenged him and asked why he chose to invest so much money with Glori he said well Dwayne (her husband) is good for it. Never mind, Dad isn't benefitting financially AT ALL, only them. And Glori will refuse to look at this for what it really is because she's SOOOO busy managing her 1.25 million real estate empire built on Dad's money (last time I checked.)

I've dealt with this bias my entire life and that's why it infuriates me, even more, to see other women getting screwed over too in the general workforce and especially in the tech sector. 

Think of all the wonderful technology that is created by women, but dies a slow death because the female founders can't receive funding to move it forward. That's what is discouraging to me and why I left that industry years back.

But I'm not the only one pissed off about this inequality. Here's another woman's view of the scant support for female founders if you want to read: Congratulations investors. We’ve now stooped to a new low of 1.9%.

But let me share some highlights because they're just too good! LOL And I quote,

  • "Firms creating mini funds to earmark capital for traditionally underrepresented founders. And by mini, I mean less than 2% of their overall AUM (pay attention to the numbers here!), run by fund managers who are not even afforded full decision-making capabilities to write out cheques. Good for you.
  • Investors congratulating themselves for making that one investment into that one woman-led company, and it’s doing pretty well! Good for you.
  • Fund managers speaking on panels and getting quoted in the press about their commitment to leveling the playing field – sometimes even with “Women Founders are the Future” tee shirts on! – while actions behind the scenes would suggest otherwise. Good for you.
  • Firms writing out the largest cheques we’ve ever seen to non-women founders who’ve not only gloriously failed before (“failure is good!”), but are known quite globally for being absolutely toxic additions to the ecosystem. Good for you.
  • Investors continuing to lean on stats about making deals into mixed-gender teams – teams with at least one woman – (or media continuing to highlight the “good news” have “skyrocketed” to, in this case, 17.2%), with a complete lack of acknowledgment that little to no research or data collection has been done on this particular sub-set of startups in regards to gender dynamics (it needs to be done), and that it’s likely “skyrocketing” because of the exact same awful set of behavior that’s also gotten us to the 1.9%. Good for you.

Or full circle, how about this extremely simple, but stark one:

Traditional investors patting themselves on the back for any of the above or 100 other “good deeds”, and still being 100% responsible for a 30% decrease in capital allocations to women startup founders from two years prior. A reminder that it’s a 30% decrease from the already pathetic number of 2.7% in 2020."

What part of you don't understand and you're causing more poverty in the world by your actions don't you get? At a certain point, men need to be honest with themselves and with others that they DO NOT WANT WOMEN TO SUCCEED! They just don't. And no matter how many times we beat them over the head with this truth that their actions speak louder than their words of support, they refuse to change.

I got so fed up, I left that community despite investing 4 years of my life into building a travel startup and really liking many of the people I came in contact with. I ultimately decided I was tired of writing about men's success in tech and not seeing myself and other females being provided the same opportunity to achieve the same.

I've given up on my Dad and have decided I am not here on earth to serve him, but I'm serving God by honoring my Dad regardless of how he treats and mistreats me. I refuse to allow my sister to poison my relationship with my Dad despite the favoritism, the catering to, or the negativity she spews to him about me every chance she gets to maintain her chokehold on his finances and the financial support he so willingly provides at every turn. That is on her conscience and God will deal with her selfishness, lies and greed, not me.

All I can do is focus on my business, and what I have in my control to provide quality travel services to those who hire me and not worry about the rest. Dad is going on a 20-day trip with Glori and maybe then she will see how much he is declining and recognize she needs to begin caring for him in ways that are foreign to her. Like allowing him time to recuperate. Making sure he eats meals that are healthy and filled with nutrients to maintain his brain health, not just whatever she thinks is ok.

Like preparing to sell properties to pay him back to cover his care because as it stands right now she has taken so much of his money he won't be able to provide the financial coverage himself. That's why I keep pushing the man who is helping Dad to move faster and close out his trust. Protect my Dad. Care for my Dad. Honor my Dad's final wishes. Finish the job, Paul. Do right by him.

This has been an interesting life and it's only bound to get more interesting as I free myself of caregiving responsibilities and turn them over to the one sister who has benefitted the most, while contributing the least to his overall care. I will still be there for him, but I sincerely hope she steps up more too. That is my prayer.

It is also my prayer that the Tech industry will begin to recognize they are missing out on not only supporting females who build amazing things but also supporting our society as a whole since women care for society in unique ways that men just don't consider.

We need more women represented in all aspects of improving society which I truly believe technology has the capacity to do, but when the nurturing, innovative, and unique perspectives of the female brain are ignored, discounted, and reduced to begging for 1.9% of funding, it's debilitating, reduces our society to a lower operating level and is just not as valuable overall.

And because female founder and CEO of Minneapolis-based Soona Studios, Liz Giorgi, puts it so well, I will close with this:

"And the final thing I'll say, which really just blows my mind every single time is that when you look at the data, quite bluntly, women-owned businesses are more likely to survive.

They're more likely to be profitable, and they're more likely to grow sustainably year over year. When you compare those data points alone, it's baffling to me that there aren't more bets made on women-owned businesses."

Do better white men in positions of power. We know you can. Just do it, like Nike.

 

 

 

 

 


Happy to announce I'm officially a licensed, bonded, and insured #travelagent #travel #cruises #allinclusiveresorts

By Joy A. Kennelly

Joy's Travel Adventures logoIf you've followed my career for any length of time you know I ran a travel startup in the tech scene for 4 years. I stopped after my Mom died because I realized that the 4% of female founders who are funded (say that fast 3x) was minuscule and men with money and power will never value women's contributions to technology.

Many years later, I am still right. 4% is still the average of all female-founded funding despite years of proof that female-run companies are hugely successful (excluding the fraudulent Elizabeth Holmes.) Here's a little statistical evidence in case you doubt my assertion:

"Women-owned business statistics prove that female entrepreneurs aren’t to be underestimated. Not only do they account for over 12 million of the businesses in the U.S., they also tend to generate higher revenues, create more jobs, and improve company performance compared to their male counterparts."

You can read the full article here.

Filming Italy EventAfter I shut down my startup, I focused on other interests including marketing and personal publicity for Actor Aaron Anastasi,  (seen here at the recent Filming Italy Festival held at Harmony Gold Theater last week).

I also focused on copywriting for numerous higher ed schools and personally traveled around the country.

Well, what goes around, always comes back around. When I ran my travel startup I never wanted to be a travel agent preferring instead to find one to partner with while I focused on bringing women together to travel.

Now, I'm back in travel, but this time I took the plunge and now am a licensed, insured, and bonded travel agent! Will wonders never cease?

Here's my official travel bio to give you some background on why I thought this was a natural next step:

Joy Kennelly has lived and traveled all over the United States and traveled throughout 27 countries and four continents. She has also worked for Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, J.W. Marriott, and Wyndham Hotels, giving her a professional insider perspective on travel.

As a travel writer, Joy has written for the Los Angeles Convention & Visitors Bureau aka Discover LA, Healthcare Traveler magazine, and Pulitzer-prize-winning newspaper, Coastal Traveler. She has also written about personal and client travel experiences on her page one Google blog: Pure, Unadulterated Joy.

Casey KasemAs an airline industry professional, Joy wrote the script and appeared in a "Beating the High Cost of Travel" infomercial featuring Travel Expert, Tom Parsons, and Radio Personality, Casey Kasem, as her first job in entertainment.

She has produced and hosted travel videos of Las Vegas, Nevada, Atlanta, Georgia, and Santa Monica, and Venice, California. (Here's a link to Joy's Travel Adventures travel channel on Youtube and the Las Vegas travel guide I created while living there.)

Joy's interesting experiences abroad earned her a "Spirit of Adventure" honor from the Youth Hostels of America.

As a travel agent working with a team of travel professionals, Joy and her team are excited to design the perfect trip for you and your loved ones. Call today! 310 483-6441

I have been training behind the scenes to become a certified cruise specialist and recently achieved the highest ranking with Princess Cruises, and Carnival Cruises while continuing to work my way through the Virgin Voyages certification and other cruise lines as well. And yes, Richard Branson is now in the cruise business too! 

I also chose to become a Fort Lauderdale specialist because so many of the cruise lines depart from there.  Now I can help you find a place to stay before and after your cruise to ensure you arrive on time and have a respite when you return.

Here are my certifications:

I also continue to educate myself on all-inclusive resorts, wedding and honeymoon opportunities, and group travel because those are my favorites to plan and explore. There are so many gorgeous options for Spring Break vacations!

What are you waiting for? 

Here are some of the amazing options I've run across and would be happy to help you book because you know we travel agents have perks we can arrange just for you! Let me take some of the stress and overwhelm out of booking your next vacation, business conference, retreat, wedding, and/or honeymoon. 

If you're based in Texas, your closest cruise port is Galveston, TX, and Royal Caribbean has a beautiful new ship sailing from there with lots of inexpensive, fun cruises available .

Here's a fun highlight of what Virgin Voyages sexy, adults-only cruising is all about. If you want to book yourself and find out all the specials being offered, please click here. I do receive compensation if you book using my special Virgin Voyages link so thank you!:)

Now, let's say you have booked your trip and you're stuck in the airport due to delays, weather or any myriad of issues that have become more common. Did you know you can book one of the airline lounges to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet without having a membership? Well, you can! And some lounges even offer complimentary food and beverages which makes the one-day pass worthwhile too.

Here's my affiliate link to global airline lounges you can enjoy for a small fee. Trust me, you will thank me later. So now, you're relaxed and refreshed and ready for your flight. 

We always suggest people arrive a day early to avoid missing your trip because unless you have trip insurance, which I can also set you up with, you will not receive any refunds for your trip. Sometimes cruises might attempt to fly you to your next stop, but what fun is that? You miss out on all the fun to be had as you cruise.

Now you have your hotel and your rental car, and you're ready to enjoy your destination, but you don't know where to go, what tours are available, or what you should do, I have a solution for this as well. With over 300,000 tours, activities, and the lowest prices guaranteed, you will love my Viator website!

Here's the Viator link to preview. And yes, I do gain a small commission if you book through my Viator website. Thank you!:)

I can also book things for you too, but I know a lot of people are savvy travelers so I offer this option as well. You know yourself and what you prefer so have fun!

Now, I know there are a ton of Disney fanatics and travel agencies that specialize in Disney. I personally am not one, but lo and behold, I too have an affiliate website for you to reserve your own Disney World Resort activities all on your own! 

Click my All Things Disney link to book wherever your heart desires to travel to! Now, I will say, I have heard that Disney Cruises are out-of-this-world and we all need to experience at least one in our lifetime.

Here's a taste of some of the Disney Cruise specials: Save Up to 35% on Select Sailings

That's all for now. I hope this has you excited about where you might travel next. I'm happy to help arrange any and all travel plans for groups, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, private villas, and more!
 
Follow along on my Linkedin travel site to stay up-to-date on more specials. See you around!

8th Annual Filming Italy Los Angeles Festival big success #Italy #film #festival

Filming Italy honored beloved Oscar-nominated star Giancarlo Giannini at the 8th Annual Filming Italy Los Angeles Festival, held March 1-3, 2023. My client, Actor Aaron Anastasi, was in attendance. 

Tiziana Rocca, CEO of Filming Italy held the 8th edition of Filming Italy Los Angeles Festival on March 1, 2023 with a red carpet evening gala at the Harmony Gold Theater, honoring Oscar-nominated Giancarlo Giannini with the Lifetime Achievement Award during closing night lineup on March 3rd. Giancarlo is also slated to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on March 6th. 

Filming Italy Los Angeles was created and organized by Tiziana Rocca, Agnus Dei, and the Italian Cultural Institute Los Angeles under the patronage of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Ministry of Cultural Heritage "MiC", auspices of the Consulate General of Italy in Los Angeles and in collaboration with APA - Audiovisual Producers Association.

Honorary president of the festival is double Oscar-winning Nick Vallelonga (Green Book) with additional stars including Patricia Arquette, Danny Huston, and others. “For the eighth year in a row, we are honored to further fuel this partnership,” says Lucia Borgonzoni, Italian Undersecretary of Culture about Filming Italy Los Angeles.

During the festival, Italian actress Matilda De Angelis received the Women Power Award/Best Movie Award; Italian singer Nina Zilli, the PERFORMANCE - Music Award; Tom Ellis was honored with the Best Actor Award shared with actor Tomas Arana; screenwriter Tembi Locke won this year’s Creativity Award; and young actress/model Nida Khurshid was highlighted with the Spotlight Award launching the opening night tributes.

Filming Italy Los Angeles’ Friday March 3rd  Closing Night ceremonies were dedicated to Giancarlo Giannini and actor Dolph Lundgren, actor Salvatore EspositoJeremy Piven, Matilda De Angelis and Nina Zilli showed up as well.

The opening night also featured the Industry Panel: WOMEN IN ENTERTAINMENT: HOW FAR WE HAVE GOTTEN  and celebrity guests and honorees listed below. 

Panelists/Guests:

  • Matilda De Angelis - Filming Italy Best Movie Award, Filming Italy Women Power Award
  • Margherita Mazzucco - Filming Italy Los Angeles International Award
  • Chiara Tilesi, producer
  • Sandra Stern (President Lionsgate TV)
  • Sabrina Impacciatore, actress
  • Matilda De Angelis, talented Italian actress
  • Nina Zilli, great Italian singer - PERFORMANCE - Filming Italy Los Angeles Music Award
  • Tom Ellis, actor  -  Filming Italy Los Angeles Best Actor Award
  • Tomas Arana, actor 
  • Tembi Locke, screenwriter  -  Filming Italy Los Angeles Creativity Award
  • Nida Khurshid, young actress, and model -  Filming Italy Los Angeles Spotlight Award
  • Caterina Scorsone, actress Filming Italy Los Angeles International Award
  • Michael Madsen, actorFilming Italy Los Angeles Lifetime Achievement

For pictures from the event, please click here.


Bootsy Bellows Bash for Healthy Humor Huge Hit! @DavidArquette @officialdannyt

By Joy A. Kennelly

Healthy Humor Co-Chairs, David Arquette and his wife Christina McLarty Arquette were happy with this year’s Bash at Bootsy’s held at David’s West Hollywood nightclub, Bootsy Bellows.  Many other celebrities attended including Amy Yasbeck, Danny Trejo, Kyle Allen, Comedian Gabriel Iglesias, aka Fluffy, and award-winning actress Patricia Arquette.

CLU17736David Arquette’s work with Healthy Humor has shown him how truly remarkable their efforts are. Seeing the magic of Healthy Humor’s work firsthand has encouraged him to develop his own clown persona to help spread laughter, kindness, and fun to kids worldwide. Here's an article in People to elaborate: David Arquette Reveals He's 'Studying to Be a Clown': 'It Takes a Lot of Training'

CLU17986Healthy Humor is a non-profit arts organization that uses laughter, joy, and humor to aid in the healing of sick children and others who are suffering, relying on the magic of “healthcare clowning.” Healthcare clowns go out to hospitals and use their professional skills to alleviate the stress, sadness, and loneliness of a hospital stay. They understand how damaging the isolation of a hospital environment can be to a person's mental and emotional state and therefore help to reintroduce laughter and play to bring back the natural parts of life. 

For behind-the-scenes activity, review my client, Aaron Anastasi's Instagram: www.instagram.com/aaronanastasi


Happy Fat Tuesday - here's what's happening in your neck of the woods

By Joy A. Kennelly

ChairsOn Wednesday, February 22nd, David Arquette along with his lovely wife, Christina McLarty Arquette, will serve as Co-Chairs of the Benefits Committee for this year’s gala of the non-profit organization, Healthy Humor. The Bash at Bootsy’s will be held at David’s West Hollywood nightclub, Bootsy Bellows, from 6 pm-10 pm.

The Bash will include food, drinks, a silent auction, live entertainment, and fun surprises throughout the night. Many other celebrities are also expected to attend, including Good Girls and Mad Men actress Christina Hendricks, Titanic star Frances Fisher, Comedian Gabriel Iglesias aka Fluffy, and award-winning actress Rosanna Arquette

Healthy Humor is a non-profit arts organization that uses laughter, joy, and humor to aid in the healing of sick children and others who are suffering, relying on the magic of “healthcare clowning.” ClownsHealthcare clowns go out to hospitals and use their professional skills to alleviate the stress, sadness, and loneliness of a hospital stay. They understand how damaging the isolation of a hospital environment can be to a person's mental and emotional state and therefore help to reintroduce laughter and play to bring back the natural parts of life. 

Healthy Humor serves over 600,000 kids and families at 15 partner hospitals annually across the country, including Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) and Loma Linda Children’s Hospital in Southern California. With the trauma and grief left in the wake of the pandemic, their work is now more critical than ever. If you're interested in supporting their effort, or seeing if tickets are still available, please click here.

Now back to our regularly scheduled programming...

Meanwhile, back in Alpine, Texas, these are all the issues over 100 people submitted for consideration out of a town of 6,000. PiechartIt's a little hard to read and if you're interested, I'm sure the city manager would be happy to provide a copy if you asked nicely. But have to say people, you get what you deserve if you don't participate when your city asks for input. 

Here's the video of one of the poorly attended strategic meetings held by this City Council if you care to watch:

Apparently, infrastructure is a biggie, especially when those who live in places like Sunny Glen, Sierra la Ran,a and Alpine Country Club, are not paying city taxes because they're in the county, not annexed in.

So, when they want their roads fixed, guess who carries the brunt? Those of us living within city limits. are paying the Alpine Country Club's 30 homes 3-mile road repair to the tune, of what was it? $36,000? Or was it higher? Memory fades, but you can catch a rough estimate if you listen to tonight's city council meeting replay.

Apparently too, there are either a lot of inept repair people on the payroll, or the roads and water systems out here are just that crummy because they're constantly needing to be repaired at a high cost. Constantly. Why oh why isn't this fixed once and for all? 

Oh, and here's the reason many of us think the city attorney needs to go.  Back when there was money, the city hired a firm to do an overall review and map of all the water lines, infrastructure, etc. They then turned around and used the city's diagrams to create the docs they returned to the city in an unusable format!

But it gets better, they returned the images the city had provided, stating it was their own!

And this city attorney accepted this faulty job, didn't fight it, and made the City of Alpine pay out $80,000 for a.) work they never can use b.) work they should never have had to pay for in the first place. Shaking my head at the sheer audacity of this current city council to continue to keep this lame-duck city attorney still in his position. No wonder he was fired once before.

Ah, but the plot thickens. Guess who this city attorney is pals with? The county sheriff who ALSO screwed the city by claiming he would split the cost of the jail if it was built on city land and then reneged when it was built, leaving the city yet again, holding the bag for a huge bill that they didn't get anything out of if I'm stating it correctly. Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong. I heard it from a pretty authoritative source.

Guess who used to work for the sheriff? You got it, Judy Stokes, leading us right back to Ward 1 and the issues raised previously. At least the concrete company was fined for violating the dark skies requirement and the current construction company is keeping to the hours set by the city ordinance. Nice to see some decorum and peace happening after weeks of chaos. As I said before, I don't care what they're building. I care when.

And for the person who decided to write me anonymously to say that the former interim city manager was fired for due cause due to a bounced check. She ignored it and allowed it to become a felony when her attorney, who said she would get off, died leaving her without legal representation to fight it.

That was raised during a city council meeting in 2016 and determined not to be an issue for the facts just stated. AND the SECRETARY OF STATE said it was ok. So let's give the woman a break ok? Maybe when she was sworn in previously she didn't realize it had turned into a felony? They don't always tell you these things up front ya know. Not that I would know! 

Haven't you ever bounced a check and then forgotten about it? Anyway, she's working to get it expunged so it will happen. It's why I don't write checks anymore. Too much bookkeeping to worry about.:)

So, all this to say, Alpine is much more twisted and secretive than even I imagined. If only I were a screenwriter... what a script I could write. And that's not even mentioning the bribery, illegal immigrants, or federal money funneled through certain people's pocketbooks.

Because it is...

I still stand by my assertion from the start.

Alpine deserves money to support its infrastructure and there's no reason why we're not getting any of it. One thing that you can do to help the city as a whole is to provide details on the water lines and pipes on your property when the city manager sends out a letter requesting this because it's now a requirement by Biden's administration AND it will help the city overall decide how to fix the infrastructure needs.

And if you want to see transparency in government, ask why the City Manager's performance appraisal isn't made public per her contract. What are they hiding and why? Inquiring minds want to know.

And lastly, because I find this hilarious seeing as I only saw white cowboys with their families and girlfriends and children attending this past weekend's Lone Star Cowboy Poetry Gathering, why on earth does the Mayor think that an African festival will do well out here in the middle of Big Bend Country? I just did a quick search and in the entire Brewster County, there are 2.1% blacks per the 2020 US Census.

I have to laugh aloud that she thinks in all her positivity, that white people who I've heard use racist slurs in private and have been name-calling and threatening me online (which is a crime called cyberbullying fyi) will embrace a festival with another culture other than their own?

Maybe in El Paso where it's bigger, closer to an airport, people are more mixed and there isn't such a small-town cliquish vibe against outsiders, but not here in Alpine. This little town is as redneck as you get. And I'm saying that in the kindest manner possible, because if you are honest with yourselves, you know I'm right.:) Not everyone, but enough...

And the cost for anyone to even attempt to produce such an event when the entire town takes hours to get to, housing is at a premium, and food costs are so high. I just don't see it. But that's the event producer in me. I wish that person well, but if it were me, I'd relocate it asap.

So, if you want more matters of facts and opinions, turn in every other week to hear former city councilman, Rick Stevens, show on Thursday mornings at 9 am on www.bigbendradio.com.

As long as my new neighbor, Dollar General, is keeping to normal work hours, I will now begin to write about what I really would rather write about. Travel.:)

And because this is also hilarious, I will leave you with these people reading reviews of Dollar General which cracks me up. 

I said what I said.