In a Perfect World

COCA-COLA SUMMIT

2010-04-29T17:41:00.000-07:00

(Photo is a Coke commercial still frame)

COCA-COLA SCHOLARS SUMMIT

“I'd like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony, I'd like to buy the world a Coke, and keep it company”

-song from Coca-Cola commercial circa 1970s

“Golly…I’m going to Atlanta”! No, those aren’t Scarlet O’ Hara’s lines from the “Gone with the Wind” film script, it is just what I announced when I received a letter in the mail telling me I had been chosen as a 2010 Coca-Cola Scholar and would be going to the Coca-Cola headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia for the award ceremony.

“I'd like to buy the world a home, and furnish it with love, grow apple trees and honey bees, and snow white turtle doves. I'd like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony, I'd like to buy the world a Coke, and keep it company!” Those are the words sung in a beautiful 1970’s Coca-Cola commercial that gathered youths and teens from all different cultures and backgrounds on a mountaintop to proclaim a super swell Coca-Cola song of peace, love and harmony.

(Photo is a Coke commercial still frame)

Many years later Coca-Cola still strives to proclaim this message by annually hosting the Coca-Cola Scholarship Awards given to youths from all around the world who are excelling in academics and altruistic endeavors.

(I-SPY: Can you spot me in this Coca-Cola Scholar group shot? HINT: I am standing next to the Coca-Cola Scholar foundation President Mark Davis (aka the only one in a suit and tie))

2010 marks the 22nd consecutive year the foundation has awarded scholarships and are pressing forward as a company to encourage and support youths that are “being the change we all want to see,” says one Coca-Cola executive. Out of more than 80,000, a group of 253 youths were called up to the metaphorical mountain aka summit for the 2010 Scholars Awards. The summit was a wonderful experience and it was great meeting so many youths who are passionate about their crafts while remaining dedicated in academics. The events ranged from historical visits to charity work. We visited the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, The Coca-Cola history headquarters museum along with many others.

After I returned from Atlanta, I had the opportunity to visit another center dedicated to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the Stanford University campus. I was greatly inspired as I met some great academicians and civil rights activists who fought for equal rights in Dr. King's day including his Lawyer, Dr. Clarence Jones and Dr. Clayborne Carson, a current Stanford Professor. According to a Stanford Alum and current employee, the Stanford vaults contain even more photos and documents than the Museum in Atlanta! Below are some photos we took, I felt it appropriate to share as I am already on the topic of Dr. King!

(This is a photo of Stanford University where the MLK center is)

(Left to Right: Me, Dr. Carson and IAPW's Jodie Blum outside the MLK Center.)

(Left to Right: IAPW's Jodie Blum, Dr. Jones and Me inside the MLK Center.)

Seeing the MLK museum was surely moving, my favorite events however also included the social service/charity events. In the photos below, we are painting and retrofitting recycled Coca-Cola syrup barrels into colorful rain barrels which will be auctioned off with the proceeds going to benefit youth in need! Ours is dubbed "Scholars In Harmony." You can bid on it and see a close up link here.

I am so grateful for the Coca-Cola Recognition and I am excited to continue inspiring a positive and solution-oriented attitude towards the future. Would I like to help teach the world to “sing” in perfect harmony? Yes, person by person and note for note we can all make a positive difference!

(Here I am with the finished rain barrel my group worked on! Guess who painted the rose???)

(P.S. Something that you may not know about the Coca-Cola Company, they also make cool drinks like the Odwalla, Minutemaid and Vitamin Water.)

Sources: www.coca-colascholars.org

ALLY-KATZZ: Town Hall Meeting

2010-04-29T16:44:00.000-07:00

ALLY-KATZZ: Town Hall Meeting

Girl Power!

The first ever AllyKatzz Town Hall Meeting was absolutely splendid. The air was filled with cheerful chatter and the meeting halls with colorful balloons. The meeting was geared to encourage girls from many backgrounds and walks of life to change the world for the better. Over 140 girls and 115 adults crowded into UCLA’s Hall Of Fame to lend their voices to positive change.

Rose colored glasses came off as we buckled down to face real issues going on in the world today. However, as solutions and brilliant ideas came to bear, rays of hope shone through. The event included an award ceremony in which I was honored for altruism and work within the organization, for which I am a youth ambassador ‘In A Perfect World’.

I was so grateful to receive an honor but my award was a testament to the fact that the IAPW team and I were able to inspire many girls. It is our hope that they themselves can in turn become catalysts of change in order to help their families, homes, communities and the world to develop into a more unified and harmonious place.

The IAPW Ambassador team lined up at a rosy pink booth to speak to large groups of girls. So many were encouraged and even pledged to find at least one way each and every single day to help make the world a little more perfect.

These are the themes I carried with me throughout the day, even when it came time to participate in DM’ing ™ (DenimMessaging™) a fun project were the girls and even a number of young stars pitched in to draw words and symbols of inspiration on the inside of jeans.

After the jeans were decorated, “AllyKatzz teamed up with Jermaine Crawford’s CODE BLUE - together they delivered the girls’ jeans to homeless tweens and teens. Celebrity jeans were on display at Bloomingdale’s in Sherman Oaks for 2 weeks and were being auctioned - 100% of proceeds will go to CODE BLUE”. In the picture below, you can see the jeans I designed that are currently being auctioned! Although hard to see, these too have lovely words and phrases of hope written in calligraphic print! They are rose themed and have many glittery blossoms and a few thorns drawn on them. After all, despite the thorns in life we can bloom for all to see. You can bid on these jeans here!

Sources: http://www.tweensummit.com/townhall/

The United Nations Conference: Commission on the Status of Women

2010-04-29T15:49:00.000-07:00

The United Nations Conference: Commission on the Status of Women

“Start spreading the news, I’m leaving today…I want to be a part of it - New York, New York”

-“New York, New York” by Frank Sinatra

(In the airport on my way to New York)

Recently, I was in spectacular and ever beloved New York to be a part of something simply swell, a part of something greater than myself and to spread the news of some vital issues affecting women. I was in NYC for the 2010 Commission on the Status of Women Conference. The conference established in 1946, is a long time supporter of women’s rights under the United Nations Economic and Social Council, a leading effort of the United Nations. The conference is in essence a grand gathering of state and country ambassadors/representatives meeting together on behalf of women. The conference goes through varied stages of identifying key social challenges and coming up with location based solutions to bring about equality, and justice. The UN meeting draws many leaders to evaluate the status of efforts from former years and new global standards.

I attended as an IAPW youth ambassador, honorary UN Ambassador and as a girl/young woman and activist myself. Whether it is portrayal of women in media, injustice in the workplace, domestic violence, culturally accepted disrespect in countries or simply a fella saying “go make me a sandwich” it is important to stand up for women’s rights. (Excuse the informality of the previous “sandwich” example, but I have heard many of my peers express outrage over this specific phrase. )

I spoke at one of the official conferences presenting a youth perspective as well as an arts/entertainment and media image view. I believe that a more positive and balanced role for women in the arts can help to encourage more respect and equality throughout the world. As a scholar and artist I seek to be a good and honest ambassador for women/girls in order to inspire themes of social justice and equal rights. The ambassadors and leaders strongly concurred and clapped most passionately when I concluded my speech with a performance. I’m wearing one of those classic “I Love New York” shirts as I type this now, but what can I say? Good ole New York, an entertainment capitol and UN headquarters.

Children’s Cancer Research Fund

2010-04-29T15:22:00.000-07:00

Children’s Cancer Research Fund (CCRF)

“Blue skies smiling at me, and all of the CCRF supporters that I see”

–“Blue Skies”(rendition) original by Irving Berlin–

The blue sky seemed bluer than ever as the morning sun illuminated faces of jubilant and eager ‘Children’s Cancer Research Fund’ (CCRF) supporters lining up for the 5th annual RUN/WALK to defeat cancer. I have been working with CCRF for the last four years and have been most honored to watch it grow and help so many. The CCRF is making new strides to help youths and families dealing with cancer and has already raised over 1,000,000 dollars in the first four years.

The 2010 walk/run was another success bringing in an even larger crowd of supporters of all backgrounds, ages and cultures. It was truly a harmonious event and it was wonderful to see people coming together to accomplish a common goal. Many young artists from Matthew Underwood to Jillian Claire and Sami Hanratty who were a part of the All Star Team for the Ronald McDonald House’s ‘A Star In You’ event, also came out to support! We all worked to encourage youths to become activists themselves, encouraging them to support and educating youths in ways they too can help.

I helped to lead a booth event for children to write/draw get well cards to their peers in the hospital. Children eagerly gathered around to create meaningful cards, drawings and letters for other youths in need. Throughout, children learned about the ways one can make a big difference even in small measures and how to encourage others to do so as well. Soon after a child had finished creating a card, they would return with siblings, friends, parents, guardians and grandparents. The youngest supporter that made a card was not even two and the oldest was a Grandmother over 60! I was greatly moved to see even the youngest children wanting so very much to make someone else’s life a little happier.

One little girl was only 4 1/2 and asked me to write down what she said. There were just “too many words” she wanted to say. I sat down beside her and wrote just what she dictated, “Dear friend, I really hope you will feel better. I think you are amazing and I know that you must be very brave. I want to be brave too and help kids so that we can be strong together.” What honest words those are!

I was truly moved and inspired to continue supporting this vital cause to “defeat” cancer. I too want to encourage you to find ways to support our brave friends who are battling for their lives so we can all be brave together. You can visit the website here!

(Here is one of the pictures/cards I drew. If I were to be eloquent I'd say it is a "mixed medium drawing", but honestly it’s me having fun with crayons, pencils and some markers. I am honored to know that it will be given to a brave child in the hospital.)

‘A STAR IN YOU’: MARYVALE

2010-04-29T13:59:00.000-07:00

‘A STAR IN YOU’: MARYVALE

“It’s what’s inside that counts.”

Using academics and the arts as a medium, I created a charity event called: ‘A Star in You’. These events provide a fun and safe platform for children in need to receive encouragement that inspires hope, healing and harmony through a variety of themed activities. Through ‘A Star in You’, youths are inspired to share their inner stars with others to help make the world a bit brighter.

Ever since the very first ‘A Star in You’ event at the Ronald McDonald House in Los Angeles, ‘A Star in You’ has essentially become its very own recurring charity event! You can read more about the first event here.

(A fun IAPW group photo at Maryvale with Manuela, Janelle and Me!)

This event was hosted at ‘Maryvale Girls Home’ in California. Maryvale began in 1856 as a safe haven to orphaned children. Today, according to the mission statement, Maryvale helps neglected and abused girls “achieve fulfillment, dignity and self-esteem in an environment of stability, love and respect”. The theme of this ‘A Star in You’ event was “it’s what’s inside that counts’; focusing on building important qualities of hope, healing and harmony through a super fun art project.

Shy at first but quickly growing more excited, the girls gathered to create lovely jewelry boxes and their very own jewelry. Combining art with inspiration, multi-colored beads poured out and glittery paint was brushed on making the tables resemble a row of enchanted treasure chests. The beads were truly delightful and shone in an array of varied shapes and sizes. Each bead was symbolic of a theme (e.g. character, harmony, wisdom, etc.) and a way to express kindness to others. Once the project was fully in motion, the girls were busily painting boxes stringing beads and discussing the “charm bead” meanings with some even inventing their own!

One little girl asked me to tie her bracelet elastic together and when I finished she said, “I think my bracelet will help me to think of happy things. You see, I have pink charms: those stand for wisdom, and purple beads: which mean joy, aaaaaand silver charms: which mean Hope. Oh, I also put a heart on the bracelet to show that the bead meanings are the good things in my heart.”

It was truly an inspirational project created through art and self expression and I feel a sense of hope as I look down at my own bracelet. The gorgeous jewelry within the boxes represents the beautiful stars inside each of us, and shows that “it’s what’s inside that counts.” A take-away for all was: as we do kind deeds, we share our inner stars with others.

SOURCES: http://www.maryvale-ca.org/

(The artwork at the very top is an animation style picture I drew for the ‘A STAR IN YOU’: MARYVALE event booklets and posters!)

EMA

2009-07-24T00:23:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I am a huge environmental advocate, dedicated to help protect, preserve and save environmental resources, animals and habitats. I am struck by the fact that even the little things we do can make a difference. Let’s just say, I’m basically the redhead with the guitar strapped on her back that picks up someone else’s trash on her way into the studio LOL. I’m definitely into helping to make the world cleaner and greener, and if I can do that through music and the arts, well… all the better.

That’s why I love the environmental media association, EMA for short. EMA channels a positive message and proactive environmental solutions through the media, arts and entertainment. They’re the organization that stands for greener sets and studios, greener lifestyles and industries. EMA also educates the next generation in environmental protection.

(Here I am about to plant a small carrot plant along with Nicole Richie, Youths from the school, and Youths from the ‘Looking Ahead Program’)

It is certainly a pleasure supporting EMA, and I value the hands on approach they take when it comes to teaching youth. I find it rather sad that so many schools teach the three R’s and such, but fail to put an emphasis on teaching the basic and vital skills about protecting and preserving our world. This is where EMA comes in. Their recent event was at a school in Los Angeles, CA for a project called “Gardening in the Schools”. It is a part of a mission to make many of the schools in that district greener by installing school gardens.

Along with EMA I joined the ‘Looking Ahead Organization’, ‘Yes to Carrots’, Amy Smart, Maria Menounos, members of Maroon 5, and Nicole Richie for a morning of hands-on gardening with the Kids and Teens of the selected school. It was an incredibly harmonious time graced by wonderful speeches from many of the founders, sponsors, partners and participants. Some of the most memorable speeches were from the founders and main directors of ‘EMA’, ‘Yes To Carrots’ (who’s representative/founder gave a wonderful speech concluded by literally taking a bite out of their own natural lip-balm!) Nicole Richie, beautifully expressed her dedication to this cause and the importance of it and Amy smart spoke about the importance “being green” and the impact it has on one’s health as well as many others.

(Soon this plot of land will be a beautiful flowering garden and provide fresh organic food for the kids at the school!)

Many of the students expressed, that beyond benefiting the environment, gardening was an incredibly peaceful and tranquil experience. A thyme* to clear one’s thoughts and connect with nature can certainly be rare in today’s society, but it is a beautiful and thought provoking experience. As I was planting the tiny roots of rose bushes, sprigs of mint and leaflets from carrots along with supporters and students, I thought about the symbolic beauty a garden. All of the different types of plants in their own individuality only add to the beauty of it, just as our world benefits from all people. If only we too could reside in harmony and find common ground as the flowers and plants in the garden so that we can work towards the goal of making this world a better place.

*(LOL I was getting so “garden-y” that this was an actual “typo” but I decided to leave it in for the sake of it.)

(Here we are walking to the garden. BTW…to give credit where credit is due…the paparazzi took these pictures LOL)

FUN FACTS:
There is this store in California that features a number of “old HoLLyWooD legend” names on signs that have been “slightly” altered to fit the going green movement. I don’t know if the legends themselves would be humored or slightly offended (let’s hope not because these guys and gals rock) but I thought it was worth sharing, so here goes:

Elvis Parsley
(Elvis Presley)

Avid Gardner
(Ava Gardner)

Ginger Rogers
(No Change Here)

Marylyn cornrow
(Marylyn Monroe)

James Bean
(James Dean)

Betty Graple
(Betty Grable)

Tofutti Garland
(Judy Garland)

Grape Jelly
(Grace Kelly)

Here is what I did with my name…it’s the best I could do in a few seconds time and I must say I am quite humored:

Artic-Tundra Rose Greener
(Alexandra Rose Rieger)

So all you nature lovers, green thumbs and enviro-supporters out there, comment me back with your altered “green” name to show your support for a greener world! Can’t wait to read them! You All Rock!!

-Alexandra Rose Rieger

Jonathan Jaques

2009-07-24T00:08:00.000-07:00

I just recently participated in a “torch run” charity event for the Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Center. It is a beautiful event celebrating the children and their families that face the diagnosis of cancer and other serious disorders. The day was dedicated to honoring those in memory and cheering on those that have survived. The survivors passed the torch to those currently battling cancer, the ceremonial torch passing graced the run with a powerful symbolism to fight, press on and persevere.
The Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Center (JJCCC) at Miller Children’s Hospital cares for children and families facing diagnoses of cancer and other serious blood disorders. The torch run honors inspirational children who celebrate another year won in the fight against serious illness. It is a day to remember for a lifetime. (From The Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Center website: http://www.jjccc.com/)

(Here I am signing. I always like to write a quick special message to the person I’m signing for. I must admit that I enjoy the look on their faces when I say “left hand signature or right hand signature” I’m pretty much ambidextrous LOL!)

As this cause is really close to my heart, there was nothing like spending the day celebrating so many young heroes; I met a number of incredibly inspirational kids. I ran alongside them not only in honor of them and their families, but also to honor the many cancer survivors in my family, as well as relatives who have lost their lives battling cancer.

For me supporting Non Profit Organizations is a part of my life and doing so has helped make me who I am. I believe that when we give to causes larger than ourselves, it not only expands our horizons, but connects us with others in meaningful ways. As I am writing this, I think about Farah Faucet and her brave fight with cancer. Her legacy will continue to live on especially as each of us make conscience steps to support and spread awareness. This blog is dedicated in the memory of her and many others that have fought and dealt through hardships.

(The little boy holding the torch is also a cancer survivor. He is such an inspiration. He has been through so much and has come out on the other side smiling. A worthy cause to celebrate!)

Children Cancer Research Fund 2009

2009-07-23T23:31:00.000-07:00

I have been a supporter of the Children’s Cancer Research Fund (CCRF) for several years now and I am honored to have the opportunity to support a charity that is making such wonderful strides to “defeet cancer”. Recently I attended the annual “CCRF Walk-A-Thon” where I joined a number of other teen entertainers there to support the event.

(Here we are at the start line…can you spot me? LOL)

CCRF was started with the inception and implementation of a remarkable project that would help change the medical environment for all children. Having seen the courage, strength and need of the children, Founder Matti Contopulos found a new way to bring fresh hopes and more than a few smiles to the children with cancer and their families.
(From CCRF website: http://www.ccrf-kids.org/)

This is definitely a cause that I strongly support, I have many cancer survivors in my family, as well as relatives who have lost their lives battling cancer, so this definitely “hits pretty close to home”. Through this fundraiser and others like it, new possibilities are being explored in cancer research. As a result, more children are finally being able to receive the proper medical attention.

(In the honor of those taking steps to defeat cancer, a carnival/fair was set up at the finish line of the walk-a-thon)

According to the National Cancer Institute, “In the United States already in 2007 alone, approximately 10,400 children under age 15 were diagnosed with cancer and about 1,545 children will die from the disease. This makes cancer the leading cause of death by disease among U.S. children 1 to 14 years of age. On average, 1 to 2 children develop the disease each year for every 10,000 children in the United States”.

It is definitely a serious issue and one that continues to need support and awareness. Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope that you too will share the importance of this cause with your friends and family, it’s just another step on the journey to defeat cancer.

We can all help to make a difference by taking steps together!

Strawberry Fest

2009-07-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

Summer is one of my favorite times of the year (of course fall, winter and spring are too so I don’t really have a bona fide “favorite”). Not only does it bring months filled with golden rays of sunlight, longer days and blooming roses, but it’s also the time of the strawberry festival!

For those of you that do not know, I love strawberries! When I was really little I found out that they also double as a lovely “lipstick” color which sadly due to the “tastiness” didn’t last long. Now I just like them period, plus they come with an added benefit in that they “supposedly” whiten teeth. Anyway, the Strawberry Festival in Gardena, CA is a splendid fair/parade that happens annually around summertime, but what I like best of all is the fact that it gives back to the community!

(There were so many great booths and fun games. Here I am at one of the activity tables…Three cheers for carnival games!)

Each year the Strawberry Festival hosts a special day for children with mental, physical and emotional challenges. I participated in this fun packed day spending time with many really sweet and extremely brave kids, their families and caretakers. I really enjoyed the rides, games and activities with my new buddies.

I also volunteered to pass out water and wore none other than my bright red strawberry vis-ette (I would say visor but the little hat requires a far more adorable term). The day was all about encouraging the kids to “keep on keeping on” despite difficulties, disabilities or hardships. It was a great way to break into summer and help bring smiles to many faces!

The World, Music and Global Justice Lawyering

2009-07-19T23:10:00.000-07:00

Arts, entertainment and music have always been my passion. Through my passion, I’ve found my voice. A voice to sing, a voice to speak but more importantly a voice for those that have no voice, and a voice for those that aren’t heard. As I am a youth ambassador I attend several conferences dedicated to bringing aid and spreading awareness about global justice issues throughout the world.

Recently I was invited to attend a conference about 'Global Justice Lawyering' hosted by Stanford Law School. The conference was both riveting and inspiring. It was moving being among academicians of various disciplines (law, medicine, business and psychology) exploring the themes of Global Social Justice; hard truth was countered with possible solutions. This awakened a new interest as I saw a direct correlation between music and 'Global Justice Lawyering'.

As a musician I strive to shed light on truth through music, spread awareness and speak out through my craft. A Global Justice Lawyer travels the world, finds evidence and exposes the truth so that its voice may be heard. I begin to think, that if this is truly the case, no matter what scale it's on, almost any passion can be used to make a change. I wonder what would happen if this ideal were to be further instilled throughout the world.

The themes were fodder for thought, some of them were:

What it is like interacting with the international criminal justice and working with international criminal tribunals.
Panelists discussed their involvement with torture-related projects from a multi-disciplinary perspective.
The intersection of international human rights law and environmental justice.
The application of economic and social human rights issues to domestic issues, a cutting-edge area of law in the United States.

I am grateful to have met directly with many people involved in these areas in South Africa; especially since the end of Apartheid, these topics are of extreme importance. There are so many questions left unanswered and many people working collectively to find them. One thing which remains clear to me is that global problems such as these can never be solved alone or in a vacuum but require a multi disciplinary approach on an international platform.

As Andrew Carnegie once said:

"Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results."

Mentoring at The Maria Shriver Women’s Conference

2008-11-16T21:10:00.000-08:00

The Maria Shriver Women’s Conference Blog

When we all raise our voices together, helping one another, it creates a harmony that can change the world.
-Alexandra Rose Rieger

The Maria Shriver Women’s Conference is the largest and most dynamic women’s conference in the nation. People come from all over the world to participate. The conference featured a wide array of speakers from different walks of life, backgrounds and perspectives; from Bono and Condoleezza Rice to Jennifer Lopez, Michael J. Fox and Gloria Steinem the arena was buzzing with encouragement and inspiration. The goal is to empower and inspire women to become architects of change, something that I whole heartedly believe in.

The Maria Shriver Women’s Conference is a direct supporter of the boys and girls town (now known as boys town) and incorporates the participants into their Minerva program. Boys Town is a beacon of hope for America’s children and families through its life-changing youth care and health care programs across the United States. (www.boystown.org)

I am a mentor and a longtime supporter for this organization and have been in featured in several PSA’s for the town and its hotline. It is an excellent organization and as a youth ambassador for 'In A Perfect World' Foundation, it is one of the charities that I am proud to support. Click here to View the webcast:

As I am a mentor for “Girls and Boys Town” aka “Boys Town” I was invited to participate in the conference along with my mentee Briana. It was an amazing and incredibly inspiring experience. It is so important for women to encourage and support one another. It is such a blessing for me to draw from the experiences in my own life to help others.

When we all raise our voices together, helping one another, it creates a harmony that can change the world.

For more info please visit: http://www.californiawomen.org/

"A STAR IN YOU" Event Los Angeles

2008-09-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

A STAR IN YOU

As Marian Wright Edelman said:

“We must not, in trying to think about how we can make a big difference, ignore the small daily differences we can make which, over time, add up to big differences that we often cannot foresee.”

The ‘In A Perfect World’ (IAPW) Foundation, founded by social entrepreneur Manuela Testolini, is actively involved in making a difference in communities nation-wide through various measures from providing workshops, like “Girl Prep” in Minneapolis (see my blog) and supporting existing organizations that are committed to the improvement and empowerment in the lives of children. One of my roles as a youth ambassador is to plan, direct and host events under the guidance and direction of the ‘In A Perfect World’ Foundation Executive Director, Dr. Towanna Freeman and Founder of IAPW Manuela Testolini. My goal was to plan and carry out a two session event before the beginning of the 2008-2009 school year. As I began to plan the event I was simultaneously working on my new CD in the studio.

I have worked with The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) of Los Angeles for several years and thought that a service project geared towards the children and families would be in line with the goals and interest of ‘In A Perfect World’ Foundation. The Ronald McDonald House is a home away from home where these brave families can stay while their heroic children are undergoing medical care.

The set of events sponsored by ‘In A Perfect World,’ were structured, designed and organized based upon the feedback of the RMH staff. They indicated activities the children enjoy, and we based our event on these activities. They also established that the typical length of stay for the families is often 1 week and therefore both events were to occur in the same week to ensure maximum repeat participation.

The name of the event is “A Star In You;” a fairytalesque event that gives kids a platform to share their inner stars together in harmony. My two upcoming singles became the inspiration behind ‘A Star In You.’ The first single, “Harmony” is a song that explores the passion of peace, hope of harmony, power in unity and the beauty of letting your inner star shine carried the message of the event. The single “Fairytale,” is a song that encourages listeners to follow their dreams even if the yellow brick road isn’t so smooth, was the decorative theme.

As the saying goes “it takes a village” and so would this service project “A Star In You.” The ‘In A Perfect World’ Foundation sponsored the event and collaborated with several different businesses and organizations. Everyone played a role in the success of this event. Some of the many proud supporters include Long Beach’s Ben and Jerry’s who showed up for the “Ice Cream Ice Breaker,” The Looking Ahead Program (a division of SAG) that came on the day of the premiere to cheer on the children and their families, John Sciulli of Berliner photography and The Hollywood Film and Acting Academy (HFAA), who filmed the event and created the memory DVD.

The IAPW team pitched in and really helped light up the event. There were many planning sessions, meetings and shopping trips, as well as a team of people who turned out to pillar support. Dr. Towanna Freeman (Executive Director), her daughter Jenisis Harper (IAPW Volunteer, creative director of Girl Prep) and Kelsy Dominic (east coast Youth Ambassador) flew in from out of state for the event. Also founder Manuela Testolini provided her love and support helping make this event successful and shine along with Janelle Keith, her right hand. The high profile nature of the event was accentuated by young celebrity supporters:

Jillian Clare (Miss Behave; Days of Our Lives), Matthew Underwood (Zoey 101), Joey Luthman (WEEDS; An American Carol), Christopher Recupito Rossi (Miss Behave; Zoey 101)

Maiara Walsh (Corey In The House), Sammi Hanratty(Pushing Daisies, Suite Life)

At the first session (August 19th 2008) the children at the RMH participated in many different activities. Through this, they were given platforms to share their inner stars. The event was filmed and arranged for the August 22^nd premiere by The HWFAA spearheaded by Joshua Sands. On the day of the event, the children at the house were busy discovering their gifts, passions and inner stars through four different categories:

1. TALK SHOW

Theme	Information
Talk about inspiration!	A super fun category where kids can share and talk about the things that inspire them.

2. TALENT SHOW

Theme	Information
Let your inner star shine!	An exciting chance for kids to share their inner stars, display hidden talents and shine like superstarz!

3. STORY TELLING

Theme	Information
Tales Of Harmony	A wonderful opportunity for kids to read, recite, share, or tell an inspirational story…a story of harmony!

4. ARTS & CRAFTS

Theme	Information
A portrait of harmony.	A super creative project where kids will be able to a piece of artwork that highlights a themes of harmony.

The children had a lot of fun participating and performing in the activities along side celebrities “helpers.”

My next few days were filled with planning for the second part of the event as well as editing the footage. The whole event was filmed by the HWFAA, a professional academy in the heart of Hollywood. I co-edited the footage and scored the soundtrack for the August 22 premiere.On the day of the premiere IAPW Founder and Staff, RMH staff, RMH families, celebrity supporters, and teen leaders from ‘Looking Ahead’ poured in to the RMH of Los Angeles to cheer on the children and families who were now “movie stars.” Once many memorable pictures were taken on the real Red Carpet, and the movie style popcorn was passed out; the young guests and audience members took their seats in the theater room.

The RMH movie was touching because it showcases the children and their families, portraying how many of the children were originally reluctant to participate and how they blossomed and dared to share their inner stars.

At the conclusion of the Movie Star awards, copies of the short film and small tokens were passed out to all the children at the house as well as the young celebrities who came to support ‘In A Perfect World.’ Each child proudly displayed their award just as they shared their inner stars.

There are 4 things that have really changed me for the better, touched my heart and solidified my commitment to “A Star In You” platform The that The ‘In A Perfect World’ Foundation allowed me to create:

Together we are stronger: I am so grateful for the support, direction and guidance of the ‘In A Perfect World’ Foundation, the participating celebrities, the supporters that came together to make this happen. Driven by a united goal to brighten, empower and witness these families blossom, we worked through details, navigated glitches and remained focused on our intent, to watch the children revealing their inner stars with the world! Thank you to the village who made “A Star In You” be a vehicle for these children and families to share.
Upward and onward: Another point that has really sharpened my understanding at what events like this can accomplish came from the testimony of one of the participants. Events such as this can change lives. Such as the story from a young boy who was staying at RMD, we invited him to participate in “A Star In You” event. He was staying at the RMH waiting for his prosthesis. To say at first he was not interested in participating was an understatement. He originally said he would only come to “watch” and he chose the ‘Talk show.’ When I had an opportunity to interview him later, he said that this event had changed his life and taught him that he could and enjoyed talking with others. I was looking forward to seeing him at the premiere and where he would watch himself on the big screen. Unfortunately that day, he had to leave with his mother, but not before he left me this note:

World of images: In this technological age, images speak volumes. The RMH DVD speaks for itself and gives a front seat to those who are called to give to help make opportunities and events like “A Star In You” a reality. It is my hope that those who see what ‘In A Perfect World’ Foundation is doing, will be inspired and compelled to contribute to making more of these happen for children throughout the nation. Changing lives a child at a time.
Youth making a difference: What has really been so meaningful to me is being apart of a growing number of youths who are in the entertainment industry and using their time and talent to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Particularly the night of the Premiere, the highlight of this day was not just showcasing the RMH families but celebrating the young people that are making a commitment to help support what ‘In A Perfect World’ Foundation is doing, such as Laura Campbell and the youth leadership council from Looking Ahead and other teen celebrities, youth ambassadors, volunteers and India B! Thank you for all of you who came to show your love and support!

When each and every one of us share the spark that inspires us, it makes the everything brighter. Star by star, spark by spark we can all do our part. There’s a star in me there’s a star in you, there’s a star in all of us…so let’s share the light, and make the world a brighter place!

UCLA Highlights The Youth Voice

2008-08-14T13:22:00.000-07:00

UCLA Highlights The Youth Voice

On Wednesday, July 23rd, I was involved in a panel discussion at UCLA law school in the Education Department for an organization called “Youth Voices.” This is an incredible youth driven program that focuses on the power and impact of the youth voice in education, politics and the world. The participating youths have structured the project into three different sectors, including: research, survey and interview. I was invited to speak on a panel with a number of proactive young adults for the research / interview portion of the project. The young adults on the panel were all representatives from different organizations.

1. Tammy Johnson is a leader at Applied Research Center in Oakland (thiscenter is a leader in bringing a racial justice analysis to educationand other issues.)
2. Nancy Meza from “Inner city struggle” a 2006 graduate of Roosevelt HS is an organizer with “InnerCity” Struggle.
3. Jarad Sanchez has been a policy advocate with the Applied ResearchCenter and is now moving on to Alliance for Better Communities-anorganization working with grassroots groups for educational justice inLA. I was there representing the “In A Perfect World Foundation.” Each of the panelists have played an important role in the youth voice, the panelists started the session by giving a brief description about themselves, and how either they themselves have used their voice in their youth or how they have helped another youth voice accomplish the goal. What struck me is that although all the panelists have accomplished the goal of making a positive difference through the youth voice, each has taken a different path to do this. Whether it was through politics, marches and rallies or the arts, every one on the like minded panel was thrilled to share their experiences.

The second portion of the event was an interview segment. The youth audience split into 5 small groups to delve deeper into the interview topics. Each group I visited hosted an interview regarding the youth voice.
Some of the questions even referred back to when I was in Elementary school. This is one of the first times I remember using my “voice” regarding my education. On this memorable day, everything went as usual, except we had a substitute teacher. When the teacher announced that she had a secret fun project for us to do that day, everyone was psyched. What we didn’t know was the selected “project” meant that we would be sorting through inappropriate magazines.

Maybe she thought she could hold our attention, I don’t know. But what I do remember is thinking that this is something I did not want to do. Still, a lot of kids were excited about this. So when I asked to be excused, at first there was a hush in the room. Then, I remember others joining in. In response to our peaceful but resolved protest, the teacher punished us by holding us in at recess and sending us to the principal. When the principal discovered how I had used my voice to speak out against “the lesson,” he thought this was the best lesson of all and had us talk about it. I saw just how valuable it is to take initiative and to be involved with our education.

As for the panel, we agreed that it is important for us youths, to encourage each other to stand up speak out and use our voices to make a positive change. I am learning that during the times we want change the most, to paraphrase what Gandhi said, we must “be the change we want to see”.

A Special Thanks to Janelle Keith and Jennifer Macon

"Girl Prep" Goes to Minneapolis

2008-05-14T23:11:00.000-07:00

As an In A Perfect World Youth Ambassador, I recently traveled to Minneapolis to present a workshop at the “Girl Prep” conference created by the Young Women’s Empowerment Network, (YWEN) and sponsored by In a Perfect World. Shortly after arrival, I joined the founder of In A Perfect World Manuela Testolini, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Norman Bailey, Executive Director, Dr. Towanna Freeman and her sweet daughter Jenesis Harper, the Girl Prep Creative Director, for a pre-seminar dinner.

In A Perfect World teamed up with YWEN whose mission is to provide resources/ services through education, networking and counseling to empower young women to reach personal, educational and professional success.

Dr. Towanna Freeman, founder of YWEN, is an expert in workshops and has hosted many geared towards young women in their mid-teens. Her daughter Jenesis suggested that they should target a younger age group, and became the Creative Director for this seminar.

The seminar theme is "Girl Prep,” a series of motivational activities and workshops geared towards girls eleven through fourteen. This age range is often neglected although these are key years of transition from pre adolescence to teendom.

When I arrived, I was shown the room where I would present the workshop. I immediately got to work. I set up props, posters and visual aids until all of the hands on examples were on display!

Towards the beginning of the seminar, I was interviewed by a really cool videography company called TVbyGIRLS. It is a nonprofit organization that works with girls ages eleven to eighteen, to build leadership, compassionate and collaborative working skills, critical thinking and engagement in social justice and the issues of their communities. TVbyGIRLS was there to document the event.

Throughout this event, there were several different workshops, interactive activities, snacks, prizes and entertainment! ‘The Ultimate Step Team’ (a marching band) led the procession into the opening session as music pumped from the speakers.

As soon as the music came to a stop, the girls focused in on the first activity. It was a team building project planned by Jenesis called, “Fort Foamy.” This is a clever game where teams and selected “project managers” work together to create a “fort in a box” out of foam material. There was no manual, tape or glue. The only instructions were a few tips from Jenesis, who proved to be a “Fort Foamy Expert.” The Board of Directors and I joined in on the fun and succeeded in creating a rather quaint little fort.

When we completed the opening session activity, the girls were divided into small groups and went to attend specific workshops. I presented the “Harmony Workshop.” The workshop is based off of the principles of my published book “Harmony.” I tailored my workshop specifically to girls, where as my book speaks to all people; both adults and youth. In a time of war, trials and strife, this workshop sheds light on the power in unity and the passion of peace.

My workshop included motivational quotes, reflective questions and hands on props that were a complementary addition to the inspirational messages and theme driven illustrations that I drew. Each theme encourages girls to gather more petals, to complete their flower of harmony.

So what was our schedule like? All of us presenting conducted two consecutive workshops with a lunch break in between. It was a full day with tons of fun. During the closing ceremony, everyone assembled in the large meeting room and the final activity began. Dr. Towanna Freeman had the entire group of young women participate in an exercise. Each girl received two pieces of paper. On the first one they wrote “I am not” followed by writing a negative adjective they wanted to dismiss (e.g. “I am not” lazy, dumb, ugly.) The second sheet they wrote “I am” followed by a positive attribute (e.g. “I am” a champion, a winner, strong.) Then they were instructed to tear up the “I am not” sign and hold up the “I am” sign, symbolically separating themselves from negative self-images. It was very moving to see the girls shed their insecurities, as they tore their“ I am not” sign and proudly proclaimed their beauty and individuality.

As for the grand finale, the girls created a summary through drawings of what they had learned, and what “a perfect world” meant to them. The 3 best drawings would be chosen and the winners would receive a special prize, which included a spot on the ‘In a Perfect World Wall of Inspiration.’ The drawings submitted were beautiful, each in it’s own way. The strong themes resonated off of each picture. Finally we chose three and concluded the session by summarizing the day and awarding each of the winners.

The First Los Angeles Green Grid Installation

2008-03-25T08:50:00.000-07:00

In this picture you can see the Los Angeles sky line. In the foreground is the first Green roof in Los Angeles. Green Grid Green roofs are lightweight modular containers with plants or decorative rocks placed on a roof

As you can see the plants above are still in their early stage and will soon fill in such as those pictured below.

In these green roofs we chose a general variety of plants; however it is possible to grow more unusual varieties such as fruits and veggies.

The first recorded green roofs were in ancient Egypt, where some of the most beautiful gardens in history were found on the rooftops.

Since then, green roofs have become increasingly popular in Europe since the 1970's, contributing to a better environment. However, the modern 21st century Green roofs offer solutions like storm water runoff management, climate cooling, water filtration, habit restoration, energy saving, roof protection and pollution reversal.

The Green Grid System is super cool because (as seen above) the modular system allows for easy removal/moving, automatic drip watering and every detail is planned out to a T.
In the picture below I am holding a small sprig of grass which is just one of the many no-maintenance plants that will grow in extreme weather conditions embedded in a lightweight growing medium (special light weight soil).

Green Grid has now become one of the leading sustainability solutions and creates a beautiful and totally hip view from above. Hopefully we’ll have more aerial views of Green roofs; a brighter horizon and a healthier environment.

“Freedom Writers” Day

2007-12-01T09:25:00.000-08:00

On December 1, 2007 I attended the “Freedom Writers” Day program at Paramount Pictures studios. When I reflect upon the topic of freedom I am moved to see that not only is it an ideal that we strive for, but it is a common dream that ties us all together. Youth leaders from Middle Schools and High Schools from all over Los Angeles came to discuss how writing brings clarity to topics of violence, racism, sexism, and alienation. Some schools dealt with a variety of these themes in an extracurricular club, while others held classes devoted to these themes.

Freedom:

(the condition of being free; the power to act or speak or think or write without externally imposed restraints)
Liberty of the person from slavery, detention, War, or oppression.

The movie “Freedom Writers” is about a young teacher who inspires her class of at-risk students to learn tolerance, apply themselves, and pursue education beyond high school. The themes featured in the movie inspired the discussion topics throughout this event; such as applying yourself creatively towards a better education and a brighter future.

The Movie was followed up by a quick luncheon and a motivational panel discussion featuring four writers who have become teachers/mentors encouraging youth to “write their way to freedom”

Pat Payne
Reina Alejandra Prado
Emily Rapp
Kristina Wong

The panel was also accompanied by a few young actors in the movie who had come in from out of state to share their experiences.

Gabriel Chavarria
Jaclyn Ngan
Deance Wyatt

Each was proud to share how they used writing and the impact it had in their own lives. All attendees were encouraged to take the time to write at least once every day which is a movement that I definitely support.

In closing we all posed for a quick picture.

Throughout the world great strides are taken towards the goal of freedom. The picture you see below is from the Freedom Charter in South Africa (which I had the pleasure of seeing on a recent multi-city tour throughout Africa.)

THIS IS THE OUTSIDE OF THE FREEDOM CHARTER TOWER

THIS IS ONE OF THE GREAT “FREEDOM SLATES” INSIDE

If you look carefully at the picture above you can see that there is writing in various sections with a central wheel. These statements talk about Freedom from a governmental perspective: what it means to be free, how to uphold personal freedoms, etc. This is basically like our Declaration of Independence. Writing has always been a key element in the quest for freedom.

The blank book, pens and empty chair below symbolize the challenge for the new generation,
which must carry on the torch that our past freedom fighters/writers have devoted their lives to and press on towards a more harmonious and peaceful future.