Entertainment, General Editorial

BHERC 14th Annual Youth Diversity Film Festival To Take Place Saturday, March 23, 2024 in Los Angeles

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -- The Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) is proud to present the 14th Annual Youth Diversity Film Festival (YDFF) Saturday, March 23rd (in-person) at Regal L.A. Live, 1000 West Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015. Films can also be viewed (virtually) online at www.BHERC.TV through Sunday, March 24, 2024.

BHERC has a core mission to recognize and support youth's unique talents and voices by providing and promoting this visual platform. Traditionally brought to the community annually as a live event - the YDFF continues in hybrid format, both online streaming and live in-person. It will include 24-hour access to the films and in-person, feature prime industry panels led by top entertainment professionals. Opening Ceremony that introduces the filmmakers with short trailers of their movies, is always a highlight of the event.

The BHERC YDFF is one of the longest-running youth film festivals to focus on diversity. YDFF filmmakers share short narratives, animation, and docu-short films from various topics related to what youth are experiencing today.

Director of the YDFF, Robert McCune states, "Storytelling is unique in that it is not bound by age. And that is what we see in the films offered by the Youth Diversity Film Festival, storytelling in its purist form because it is rooted in the belief of young people. These are the storytellers that will write the next generation of this world's history. And each film is a new page in that history."

YDFF goes beyond the definition of a festival by providing guidance and life-changing experiences that go beyond filmmaking throughout the year. With nearly 2,000 submissions from more than 8 different countries this year, the YDFF continues to grow.

Sandra Evers-Manly, President of the Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center stated, "We are excited with the continued growth of the festival and the students focus dealing with diverse issues."

A vital component of the festival is the panels featuring professionals in the entertainment industry. These panels provide real-time real-life career information, experience, and learning. Set to provide mentorship and inside, by some of the best professionals in the television and film industries. This year's festival will provide two different panels, with the topics to be announce in the coming week.

Founded in 1996 by Sandra Evers-Manly, BHERC is a nonprofit, public benefit organization designed to advocate, educate, research, develop, and preserve the history and future of Black images in film and television. BHERC programs include film festivals, mentoring, book signings, script readings, film and animation contests, scholarships, and other programs and special events.

BHERC invites young people from the US and across the globe, industry professionals, and the community to join us for this great festival of incredible films from our youth.

"This festival is presented annually to continue the BHERC mission to provide an outlet and opportunity for young filmmakers around the globe to share their stories about issues, challenges, and successes to a broad audience," states BHERC YDFF Director Robert McCune. This is a powerful opportunity for everyone. Take the time to log in and learn, be inspired, moved, gain insight from the filmmakers and the films, as well as the industry-led panels.

REGISTRATION:

Register online for the in-person event and virtual event at https://bherc.org/.

Admission: Festival Pass $10/Adults, $5/Youth & Seniors.

Please Note: films screen online at https://bherc.tv/.

MORE INFORMATION:

For information about the BHERC YDFF festival, please contact Robert McCune, Director, BHERC Youth Diversity Film Festival at email: YDFF@bherc.org or by phone: (925) 727-6231. For information on all the festival offers additional details about BHERC and all its programs, visit our website at www.bherc.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Robert McCune/Stephene Johnson

(925) 727-6231/(323) 957-4656

mediapress@bherc.org

Related link: https://bherc.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Books and Publishing, Entertainment, General Editorial

Publishers Newswire announces its Semi-annual BOOKS TO BOOKMARK List for March 2024 – Eight New Books You’ve Never Heard Of

TEMECULA, Calif. -- Publishers Newswire (PNW), an online news publisher covering books, music and software launched in 2004, has announced its latest semi-annual "books to bookmark" list of eight new and interesting books from small publishers and self-published authors in North America published over the past year. These books are often overlooked due to not coming from major traditional N.Y. book publishing houses.

"The publishing market still looks to be strong, with frequent publication of books by both new and existing authors," says PNW editor and publisher, Christopher Laird Simmons, who has worked in the publishing world since the late '70s, and is also CEO of the website's parent company, NEOTROPE®.

Herewith are 8 interesting reads recently published, worth a look (no specific order):

THE EPIC GOAL WORKBOOK

"The EPIC Goal Workbook: The Guide to Achieving Extraordinary, Powerful, Impactful and Courageous Goals" (ISBN: 978-1956955682; paperback; Legacy Launch Pad), written by Anna David, a leading speaker on goal setting. The process David's workbook outlines is a combination of practical and spiritual: it involves writing down a goal, describing in present tense what life will be like when the goal is achieved, pasting images that represent the achieved goal in the pages of the workbook, noting the actions that will be required to achieve it and then waiting for the results.

Learn more: https://publishersnewswire.com/publishing-legacy-launch-pad-publishing-releases-workbook-on-how-to-meet-goals-by-goal-setting-speaker-anna-david/

BEAUTY OF A NEW LAND

Author Michiko Sakamoto-Senge invites readers on a captivating journey through the pages of her new book, "Beauty of a New Land: The Lives and Legacies of Five Immigrant Women in Canada" (ISBN: 978-0228896807). This compelling work explores the remarkable stories of Lina de Guevara, Hanny Pannekoek, Hemi Gunasinghe, Comfort Ero, and the author herself - five extraordinary elder immigrant women who forged meaningful lives for themselves while contributing to a just society for others. In "Beauty of a New Land," Sakamoto-Senge delves into the personal narratives of these women, shedding light on the complex cultural dynamics that exist within immigrant families who become Canadians. The book celebrates their contributions to Canadian society and, in response, what Canada has offered them.

Learn more: https://publishersnewswire.com/publishing-new-book-offers-a-window-into-the-lives-of-immigrant-women/

SMELLY BEGINS

First time author Cindy Lane takes readers on a fun journey filled with laughs and love with, "Smelly Begins" (ISBN: 978-1998190638). "Smelly Begins" is the first tale in The Adventures of Smelly Rogers, a triple treat encompassing infant, toddler, and children's stories - three books in one. With a delightful mix of rhyme, rhythm, and humor, Smelly gracefully explores the world, embodying curiosity, patience, and understanding. The COVID related death of one of her high school friends, known by name to her children and often a subject of shared stories, became the poignant catalyst inspiring her to start writing.

Learn more: https://publishersnewswire.com/publishing-cindy-lane-smelly-begins-a-heartening-trilogy-illustrated-by-an-artist-with-autism-celebrates-love-and-joy-while-stretching-the-family-budget-with-three-books-in-one/

TRAUMERGY: A SCI-FI MYSTERY

"TRAUMERGY" (ISBN: 978-1633572874; New Harbor Press) by Patrick R. Carberry is a science fiction thriller that's as compelling as it is provoking. The author invites readers to join him on a captivating journey where he delves into what he calls TRAUMERGY - also known as traumatic energy. This Sci-Fi mystery work urges readers to think outside the box. Consider this. What if traumatic events were stored in the brain as traumatic memories and could be viewed with new technology?

Learn more: https://publishersnewswire.com/publishing-new-sf-book-offers-fictional-window-into-the-intersection-of-science-and-traumatic-events/

A TOOL FOR MOTIVATION, INSPIRATION, LOVE, AND KINDNESS

Grab your favorite pen, and a copy of the newly-released "My Journal" (ISBN: 978-1779411716; Tellwell Talent), an empowering guided kindness journal created by international figure skating coach Robert O'Toole. "My Journal" is not just a daily planner; it's an invitation to embark on a path of positivity, self-reflection, and acts of love and kindness. "My Journal" isn't just for personal use; it's a powerful tool for building a motivated, inspired, and creative culture wherever you need it. Whether in the office or ice rink, "My Journal" is a roadmap to creating a more compassionate and caring global community.

Learn more: https://publishersnewswire.com/publishing-introducing-my-journal-by-robert-otoole-a-tool-for-motivation-inspiration-love-and-kindness/

BONES IN THE ALLEY

Author Viterose Van Huis invites readers to embark on a profound exploration of self-discovery with her latest release, "Bones in the Alley" (ISBN: 978-1779413772; paper). "Bones in the Alley"is a republishing of her initial inspiring work that first graced bookshelves in 2015. Spanning the challenges of Van Huis's tumultuous childhood in Barbados to her new life in America, "Bones in the Alley" is an inspiring account of spiritual growth. Vulnerable and authentic, "Bones in the Alley" is the true tale of one woman's resilience in the face of adversity as she learns that self-discovery is essential in the pursuit of happiness and meaning. "Bones in the Alley" is more than a book; it is a helping hand, teaching readers that the answers to life's challenges are within you.

Learn more: https://publishersnewswire.com/publishing-embark-on-a-journey-to-self-awareness-with-bones-in-the-alley-by-viterose-van-huis/

AN INNOCENT WORLD

Emerging author Douglas A. King has recently released "An Innocent World" (IBSN: 978-0228828884), a captivating exploration of an alternative reality where the consequences of Adam and Eve's actions are reconsidered. In this book, King envisions a world vastly different from our own, inhabited by immortal beings reminiscent of classic space aliens, promoting a society free from harm and conflict.

Learn more: https://publishersnewswire.com/publishing-emerging-author-douglas-a-king-unveils-thought-provoking-novel-an-innocent-world/

THE OTHER SIDE OF CRISIS

94-year-old author Bob Herpe has released of the paperback version of his latest suspense-thriller, "The Other Side of Crisis" (ISBN: 979-8350927269). This action thriller has been described as, "...a gripping work of fiction, brimming with action and suspense, as it delves into the lives of Ernie Gravnick, a retired police chief, and Riana, an Israeli flight attendant with a background in special forces. In this thrilling narrative, Gravnick becomes the target of 'The Ghost,' a ruthless serial killer responsible for the death of his wife."

Learn more: https://publishersnewswire.com/publishing-bob-herpe-releases-his-second-book-a-thrilling-new-novel-the-other-side-of-crisis/

MORE INFORMATION:

Learn more about additional books you've probably never heard of here: https://publishersnewswire.com/pnw/book-news/

ABOUT PUBLISHERS NEWSWIRE:

Publishers Newswire™ is an online publication founded in 2004, part of the Neotrope News Network, covering books and publishing, music and software news. Publishers Newswire does not endorse, "recommend," or review any of the book titles mentioned, and the specific books mentioned are for informational purpose only. No fee or other consideration was paid for inclusion in this list.

ABOUT NEOTROPE:

Neotrope has been in the publishing business since the late 1970s, when then teenage founder Christopher Simmons published first "The Comic Collectors Comic Checklist" sold at the San Diego Comic-Con. The company went on to publish "The Galaxy of Fandom" a one-off entertainment magazine, and later "The Adama Journal" a fanzine for "Battlestar Galactica." In 1982, "The Unicorn Hunters Guidebook" was featured in Playboy magazine. In 1987, a fanzine for "Star Trek: The Next Generation" called "Galaxy Class" launched. In 2008, the company published "FRACTOPIA" a coffee table art book by Simmons (ISBN: 978-0971055506; Neotrope Press).

The company publishing unit was originally called Silver Unicorn Graphics (S.U. Graphics and Marketing), became Mindset Press in 1987 and Neotrope Press in 1997. The Neotrope News Network was launched in 2004.

The company is also a leader in online advertising and marketing, public relations, music/video and multimedia. Neotrope is based in the Southern California wine country of Temecula. Neotrope® is a registered trademark in the U.S. and Europe. The company celebrated its 40th anniversary Jan. 2023.

Christopher Simmons has been a working journalist since 1984 when he sold his first article to POLYPHONY magazine. Later writing for diverse pubs including Computer Player, Digital Imaging, Micro Publishing News, Spazz, the Graphic Artist's Guild newspaper, among many others. He has been widely interviewed on topics related to technology, marketing, health and entertainment.

Learn more about Neotrope at: https://neotrope.com/ (website under reconstruction 2024).

NOTE: NEOTROPE does not publish any of the books mentioned in this press release nor represent any author or publisher in an agency capacity. For questions about any of the books mentioned contact the author or publisher directly and not this website.

Related link: https://publishersnewswire.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

author George Tanabe, Books and Publishing, Business, Entertainment, General Editorial, Product Launches

The Shady Side of Virtue – Japanese Transgressions in Early 20th Century Hawaii

HONOLULU, Hawaii -- Set in the tumultuous world of colonialism, technological revolution and intercultural entanglements in early 1900s, Deuxmers Publishing releases "Miki's Mad" by George Tanabe (ISBN: 978-91944521219). A telling of love, family, pride, and delusions arising from the collisions between perception and misperception, sanity and madness, and virtue and vice.

Tanabe, who is a recipient of the Japanese Foreign Minister's Commendation and the Imperial Order of the Rising Sun awards, tells the tragicomic story of a Japanese immigrant: On a steamship from Japan to Hawaii, Shuzo Taga discovers Miki, a young woman who is slowly going mad-angry, insane and wildly funny - and yet she, sustained by the spirit of a devious cat, enables him to turn his fantasies into cash.

This picaresque tale plays on stereotypes that our protagonist hijacks as he out-whites the haoles, out-yellows the Japanese, out-browns the Hawaiians, and in the end, outsmarts himself.

While "Miki's Mad" portrays a charming but conniving protagonist, it should be remembered that the honest and hardworking issei pioneers also had shadier sides to their lives involving adultery, moonshining, theft and prostitution. In 1901, for example, 93 percent of the known prostitutes in Honolulu were Japanese women under the control of a certain Masudo-san. "Miki's Mad" taps into this underside and portrays the adventures of lovable characters freely deploying guts and ingenuity as they search for better lives.

Further information: https://www.deuxmers.com/authors/george-tanabe/mikis-mad

About George Tanabe:

George Tanabe, Professor Emeritus of Religion at the University of Hawaii, earned a Ph.D. in Japanese religions (esp. Buddhism) from Columbia University. His academic books have been published by university presses at Harvard, Princeton, Columbia and Hawaii. For promoting cultural understanding between Japan and the United States, he was awarded the Japanese Foreign Minister's Commendation in 2007 and the Imperial Order of the Rising Sun in 2012.

About Deuxmers Publishing:

Founded in 2011 in Hawaii, Deuxmers Publishing is an independent publisher of fiction, poetry and photography books, with a mission of preserving individual voices and visions to be made available for future generations. Learn more at: https://www.deuxmers.com/.

Related link: https://www.deuxmers.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, creole cooking, Education and Schools, General Editorial

Cottage Cooking Asheville Adds New Classes from the Big Easy

ASHEVILLE, N.C. -- Cottage Cooking continues to expand its class repertoire. A recent trip to the great city of New Orleans inspired the owners to add Cajun and Creole classes to their current schedule. While visiting what many refer to as the "Big Easy," Cottage Cooking owners, Liisa Andreassen and John Godts, took a class on local fare to hone their culinary skills; they're happy they did.

"Our instructor, a Le Cordon Blue culinary graduate, explained that the class would be more like a chemistry class than a cooking class - and she wasn't kidding," Liisa says. "She encouraged us to focus on chemical reactions and interactions and to use all of our senses. It was a wonderful experience and one we wanted to modify to fit our style and bring back to our hometown of Asheville, NC."

Cottage Cooking now offers two new classes:

Creole Cooking; and the New Orleans Classic. In Creole Cooking, guests will learn how to make a delicious shrimp, chicken and sausage jambalaya. The New Orleans Classic (Cajun) features shrimp etouffee. Both cooking classes start with light and airy hushpuppies and end with Bananas Foster for dessert.

"Many folks that we teach don't realize the main difference between creole and Cajun," John says. "Want to know? The easiest way to explain it is that Cajun cooking typically does not use tomatoes or any tomato-based sauces while creole cooking does."

Guests who participate in these cooking classes will even get some Mardi Gras beads of their own to take home. So, let the good times roll or as they say in Louisiana, "Laissez les bons temps rouler."

About Cottage Cooking:

Cottage Cooking classes are designed for the home cook and a typical class is designed like a dinner party where guests prepare and eat an appetizer, main course and dessert. There's also a Saturday morning baking class once to twice a month.

These cooking classes make for a great date night or ladies' night out. The company also goes offsite so folks can host their own cooking class in the comfort of their home. Bachelorette parties, family reunions and corporate retreats are popular too. In addition to the cooking class schedule which can be found on their website, they'll also design custom dates and menus as requested for private classes - on or offsite.

The Cajun and Creole classes are $89 per person. Guests are invited to BYOB. Gift certificates are also available.

MORE INFORMATION:

https://cottagecookingasheville.com/

FOLLOW ON SOCIAL:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cottage.Cooking

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cottagecookingasheville/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbW9jFa2DTZB_dhqpvrrBEA

Related link: https://cottagecookingasheville.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Author Neena Paul, Books and Publishing, Business, Entertainment, General Editorial, LIVE LOVE LIFE, Product Launches

Author Neena Paul Inspires Readers to ‘L I V Life In Virtue’ in New Book

TORONTO, Ontario -- Neena Paul, the visionary author and founder of the global mental health and wellness platform LIVE LOVE LIFE, is set to release her transformative book, "L I V Life In Virtue" (ISBN: 978-02288955341; Feb. 2024; Tellwell Publishing). With a compelling philosophy that Creation and the Creator are One, Paul invites readers on a journey to connect with themselves and the world around them.

In "L I V Life In Virtue," Neena Paul explores the profound interconnectedness that exists among all living things. She emphasizes the universal force that transcends labels-whether it be called energy, vibrations, or God-and underscores its omnipresence in our lives.

"At the core of our existence is a shared essence, a commonality that unites every being. 'L I V Life In Virtue' is my attempt to guide individuals in establishing a profound connection with themselves as the first step towards a deeper connection with the world they inhabit," says Neena Paul.

The book advocates for the delicate balance between spiritual and physical well-being, urging readers to embrace each breath as an opportunity to connect with the profound meaning of their journey. From "reason" to "purpose," she explores the essence of a meaningful life and the importance of savoring every moment.

Neena Paul is not just an author; she is the driving force behind LIVE LOVE LIFE, a global platform dedicated to mental health and wellness. As the founder and director, Neena is committed to facilitating connections among individuals seeking to enhance their lives and help others do the same. Her mission is to harness the knowledge, experience, and passion of each generation, leaving a lasting legacy of living and loving life to the fullest.

"You only live once. If you live a meaningful life, once is enough," declares Neena Paul, encapsulating the essence of her inspirational message.

"L I V Life In Virtue" is out now and will be available through online major book retailers. Readers can expect a thought-provoking exploration of the interconnected nature of existence, coupled with practical insights on leading a purposeful and fulfilling life.

For media inquiries, interviews, or review copies, please contact:

BOOK SUMMARY:

Author: Neena Paul

Email: authorpress@tellwell.ca

Website: https://onelivelovelife.com/

Buy Link: https://a.co/d/8FaZ0K3

Genre: Self Help

Released: Feb 2024

PAPERBACK ISBN-13: 9780228895534

EBOOK: 9780228895541

Publisher: Tellwell

Related link: https://onelivelovelife.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Author Bob Herpe, Books and Publishing, Business, Entertainment, General Editorial, suspense-thriller

Bob Herpe Releases Paperback of ‘The Other Side of Crisis’

ORLANDO, Fla. -- 94-year-old Orlando area resident and author, Bob Herpe, announces the release of the paperback version of his latest suspense-thriller. The best-selling author said this new version of his novel "The Other Side of Crisis" (ISBN: 979-8350927269) will be available Feb 1, 2024 on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Bookbaby.com. It will be in bookstores nationwide thereafter.

Official Review of onlinebookclub.org, reviewer Isaac Oh: "I rate this book, 'The Other Side of Crisis' by Bob Herpe, 5 out of 5 stars. The book was so lovely to read. Right from the first chapter, the author caught my attention, and it was hard to let go. The action, suspense, and twists made this book even more enjoyable. The detailed descriptions that the author used in describing the scenes in the book made it even more interesting. It felt like I was watching a blockbuster movie."

A 5-star review from The Book Commentary reviewer, Franklin Bauer: "Bob Herpe's 'The Other Side of Crisis' is an enthralling tale of vengenance, hatred, and unwavering pursuit of justice. The store opens with a tragic incident during an El Al flight from Israel, plunging the protagonists into a realm of danger and suspense. Ernie Gravnick, a retired police chief, becomes the target of a merciless serial killer known as the Ghost. Meanwhile, Riana Dayan, an Israeli flight attendant, with a special forces background, faces a powerful threat from a vengeful brother of her former captor. Their fates intertwine in a gripping tale involving assassination attempts, terrorist attacks, and undercover operations. Can they manage to navigate safely through the dangers while the bond between them grows stronger?"

Bob Herpe's signature blend of rich storytelling and deep character development takes the reader on an unforgettable journey that challenges and inspires.

The Book Commentary reviewer James Farlow says: "'The Other Side of Crisis' by Bob Herpe is a deeply suspenseful and masterfully crafted thriller. Herpe delivers a top-notch narrative that is delightfully, diabolically fun to read, blending romance with strong terrorist themes to bring joy to readers."

Information on Amazon: https://a.co/d/f3eTWjl

Information Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-other-side-of-cris-bob-herpe/1144545750?ean=9798350927269

Information on BookBaby.com: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/the-other-side-of-crisis?format=paperback

Florida readers can also look forward to a series of local book signings and readings by the author, with dates to be announced shortly.

About Bob Herpe:

After a lifetime of careers in advertising and broadcasting, and as a coach to senior-level executives, Bob Herpe began a writing career with the publication of his first novel, "Gravnick" which became a best seller. Now at the age of 94, he offers up another Action-packed thriller: "The Other Side of Crisis."

Related link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-herpe-2b6606186/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Author Michele Schrader, Books and Publishing, Entertainment, General Editorial, Palliative care, spiritual health

Author Michele Schrader Explores the Power of Intention in New Book, ‘Beautiful Intentions: Healing One Soul at a Time’

WINNIPEG, Manitoba -- Author Michele Schrader invites readers on a transformative journey of self-discovery and healing in her latest book, "Beautiful Intentions: Healing One Soul at a Time" (IBSN: 978-0228883913, Dec. 2023). This profound work delves into the depths of the human soul, offering insights and practical tools for personal growth and spiritual awakening.

In "Beautiful Intentions," Michele Schrader addresses fundamental questions that resonate with us all: "Who am I?" and "What is my purpose?" Drawing from her own spiritual experiences and the wisdom gained from her career as a nurse in palliative care, Schrader shares a concrete plan for healing deep fears and emotional trauma.

The book encourages readers to view daily life challenges from an alternative perspective, emphasizing the role of intention in the healing process. Schrader's guidance and tools pave the way to a path of peace, joy, and self-discovery.

One of the book's core messages centers around the power of self-love and forgiveness, which unlock the portal to our true Higher Soul Self. By elevating personal energy and embracing these concepts, readers can attract positive people and experiences into their lives.

Michele Schrader's journey of revelation also extends to the exploration of the soul's transition into the afterlife. Drawing from her own spiritual experiences and communications with the Heavenly realm, she provides comfort and clarity on this profound and often mysterious topic.

"Beautiful Intentions" is a testament to Schrader's lifelong connection to a Higher Power and her dedication to helping others find their path to spiritual clarity. Her personal and professional experiences have converged to create this Divinely inspired book, offering readers a profound and uplifting perspective on life's challenges and the power of intention.

To pick-up a copy of the book and find out more about Michele Schrader and "Beautiful Intentions: Healing One Soul at a Time," please visit Amazon.com at: https://a.co/d/0SwFoN6

BOOK SUMMARY:

Author: Michele Schrader

Email: authorpress@tellwell.ca

Buy Link: https://a.co/d/2fotyZI

Genre: Memoir/Spirituality

Released: December 1, 2023

IBSN: 9780228883913

Related link: https://a.co/d/2fotyZI

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Ciao Bella Celebrations, General Editorial, Old Town Warrenton, Virginia weddings, wedding chapel

Boutique All-inclusive Virginia Wedding Venue Bucks Expensive Trends

WARRENTON, Va. -- The average wedding costs about $35,000. And that's just average. That's why more and more couples are turning to smaller, more intimate gatherings like the "Sweet and Simple Weddings" of Ciao Bella Celebrations. Their stress-free, fun and elegant weddings consistently receive five-star reviews on sites such as Trip Advisor, Google and Wedding Wire. Why? Because the owners, Mona and Dan McLinden, are passionate about what they've created.

Planning a wedding can be stressful and expensive as lavish venues and exclusive vendors promote "must have" fashions and trends. Translation? Costly. Seventy-five percent of Millennial and Gen Z couples say in recent surveys that it's too expensive to get married in the current economy. But in small-town Warrenton, Virginia, Mona and Dan are pushing back on trends like these with their brand of "Sweet and Simple Weddings."

The couple created Ciao Bella Celebrations, a full-service chapel and venue to host elopements and intimate weddings for couples and up to 30 guests. With everything in one place, Ciao Bella offers incredible value and one of the easiest ways to plan a wedding on the East Coast.

Ciao Bella is the only intimate wedding venue in the Mid-Atlantic where you can book online and plan your entire event within 24 hours. Once the package and services are chosen, it's just a matter of clicking the "Save the Date" button to reserve the date and time. Ciao Bella will reach out and work with the couple to arrange everything from photography and champagne toasts to delightful appetizers and music. The officiant is included too.

Mona mentions that most couples who plan a wedding with Ciao Bella initiate contact within 30-60 days of their wedding day.

"We recently had two couples who each booked within three days," she says. "They were home for the holidays and decided since they had the whole family together in one place already that it was a good time to tie the knot."

Daniel shares that their wedding venue is also quite popular with people in the military who are home on leave or planning for deployment.

Ciao Bella offers a series of all-inclusive and a la carte selections, starting from their basic elopement for two at $199. Their most popular packages are currently the "Heart of Warrenton" elopement special ($399) and the Enchanting Courtyard package ($1,800), which offers an outdoor option.

"These two packages accounted for a 20 percent fiscal growth at our venue last year," Daniel says.

With the features of a larger wedding scaled to size and designed to be flexible and easy to personalize, Mona and Daniel create a one-stop wedding experience that allows the couple to have nothing more to do than get dressed and show up on their special day.

"We bring our dedication to service and more than 20 years of experience to make the wedding day magical - from ceremony and music to photography, first dance, toast and cake cutting," Mona shares.

With small-town charm, family-owned shops, and the scenic beauty of Old Town Warrenton, Ciao Bella is a perfect close-in wedding destination for couples from Washington D.C. to Richmond, VA and beyond.

For more information: https://SweetandSimpleWeddings.com/.

About Ciao Bella Celebrations:

Ciao Bella Celebrations is a privately-held chapel and venue in Warrenton, VA., designed for elopements and micro-weddings for couples and up to 30 guests. Founded in 2003 as a photography service, today the company marries hundreds of couples per year and offers a full range of intimate wedding services including legal officiant, photography, planning and catering.

Related link: https://SweetandSimpleWeddings.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Author Bob Herpe, Books and Publishing, Business, Entertainment, General Editorial, Product Launches

Bob Herpe Releases His Second Book, a Thrilling New Novel: The Other Side of Crisis

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Acclaimed author and Orlando area resident Bob Herpe is thrilled to announce the release of his second book, "The Other Side of Crisis" (ISBN: 979-8350927269; Feb. 2024) Following the success of his debut novel, "Gravnick," which captivated readers after its 2019 release, Herpe's newest work promises to be an even more compelling and thought-provoking journey.

Official Review of the OnlineBookClub.org. "I give this book 5 out of 5 Stars."
- reviewer, Abraham Ozo.

"The Other Side of Crisis is a gripping work of fiction, brimming with action and suspense, as it delves into the lives of Ernie Gravnick, a retired police chief, and Riana, an Israeli flight attendant with a background in special forces. In this thrilling narrative, Gravnick becomes the target of 'The Ghost,' a ruthless serial killer responsible for the death of his wife. Simultaneously, Riana is relentlessly pursued by the vengeful brother of her former captor. Their lives intersect dramatically during a harrowing flight that endures not one but two attacks, forging an unexpected connection between them."

With his signature blend of rich storytelling and deep character development, Herpe takes readers on an unforgettable journey that challenges and inspires.

"After the incredible response to my first book, I felt both excited and challenged to delve deeper into the character of Ernie Gravnick and the themes that resonate with my readers, including the capacity for humans from different walks of life and opposing ideals to find a common ground," says Herpe. "'The Other Side of Crisis' is a product of that exploration and I am eager for readers to experience the world and characters I've created."

Another review by OnlineBookClub.org member, Robert Andrew also rated five out of five stars and said,

"I was captivated by the author's storytelling skills and their ability to weave a tale that makes the book a page-turner. The author displayed an in-depth knowledge of Israel and its stories, embedding them in a way that makes the book not only entertaining but also educational. Readers, even without prior knowledge of Israel, can identify with the crisis in the Middle East and the daily struggles of both Israelis and Arabs residing there."

Bob Herpe emerged as a unique voice with his debut novel, "Gravnick" which was praised for its novel perspective and captivating storytelling. It has established him as a notable figure in contemporary literature.

"The Other Side of Crisis" is now available online as an e-book on Amazon.com. Paperback copies can be pre-ordered from amazon.com and Barnes & Noble before its release, on February 1, 2024. Look for the book in bookstores nationwide thereafter.

Information on Amazon: https://a.co/d/4PyaLd8

Information on Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/book/1144462158?ean=9798350927276

Readers can also look forward to a series of local book signings and readings by the author, with dates and locations to be announced shortly.

For more information, to request a review copy, or to schedule an interview with Bob Herpe, please contact Bob Herpe directly at bobherpe@bosabooks.com

About Bob Herpe:

After lifetime careers in advertising and broadcasting, and as a coach to senior-level executives, Bob Herpe began a writing career with the publication of his novel "Gravnick." Now at the age of 94, he offers up another action-packed thriller: "The Other Side of Crisis."

Related link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-herpe-2b6606186/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Education and Schools, General Editorial, NonProfit and Charities

10th Annual Cursive is Cool Contest Launches for Students in North America

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- The American Handwriting Analysis Foundation announced that their annual "Cursive is Cool"® contest is now open to North American students from Kindergarten to Grade 6. The contest dates are January 23 through April 15, 2024.

Students are encouraged to enter early. Prizes will be awarded for First Place, Second Place, and Third Place based on legibility and neatness. One of each prize per grade will be awarded. There will also be a prize awarded for each grade for the most Creative Content and a random drawing will be held at the conclusion of the contest, so every entry has the chance to win a prize!

"We are helping young writers find their voices. Every entry has an equal chance to win. Our judges are excited and look forward to reading the kids' points of view. The entries are enlightening and often entertaining," remarked Lauren Mooney Bear CG, Campaign for Cursive Chair and President of the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation.

The annual cursive contest has many supporters. The North American contest supporters continue to grow, with Holistic Health Counseling Center, Blind Pig Press, Amsterdam Printing, CursiveLogic, Sheila Lowe Author, Dixon Ticonderoga, Fahrney's Pens, Itoya, Louise Borden Author, Caran D'ache, Gary's RV Repair in AZ, Christy Zwenger Author, New American Cursive, J6R6, Mirthos Paper, PEN World, Profolio, Sakura, and Writing Academy. People and businesses from the four corners of North America are enthusiastic about supporting the Cursive Is Cool contest.

"Write don't type! Cursive is creative and it's fun to try different kinds of pens to write with," says Dr. Marion Rollings, Vice-President of the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation.

The contest dates are January 23 through April 15, 2024.

For more information, contact Lauren Mooney Bear: CursiveIsCool@gmail.com.

Learn more: https://ahafhandwriting.org/AHAF_s_Campaign_for_Cursive

"You don't have to be the best writer this year

To win a prize that will bring you cheer.

Entering is the main thing to do

To win a prize to be sent to you!"

About the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation:

The Foundation is a 501-(c)6 non-profit organization, chartered and incorporated in California, and are the sponsors of Campaign for Cursive®, and will graciously accept donations.

Visit https://www.ahafhandwriting.org/.

Related link: https://www.ahafhandwriting.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022