Category: Entertainment

  • Crowdfunding Campaign Tips Off for ‘NAWFSIDE’ Short Film Highlighting Pressure in Youth Sports

    Crowdfunding Campaign Tips Off for ‘NAWFSIDE’ Short Film Highlighting Pressure in Youth Sports

    A 5-star Atlanta basketball phenom caught between the game, the grind, and finding his true purpose beyond the court – presented by Eye Candy Studios and The ARADA Company.

    Oct. 26, 2025 / PRZen / ATLANTA — As NIL deals continue to reshape student athletics and challenge the fairness of competition, Eye Candy Studios has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Seed&Spark to produce “NAWFSIDE,” a short drama examining the intersection of youth sports, identity, and ambition.

    The film follows a rising Black basketball star growing up in suburban Atlanta who must choose between chasing athletic fame and following a deeper personal calling.

    “NAWFSIDE” is directed by Jordan Dilwood a.k.a. Coda of Eye Candy Studios, who is known as a co-producer of the 12-episode show Cycles and the short film A Hopeless Father. Producing “NAWFSIDE” is The ARADA Company, headed by Ivan Carrasquillo Diaz, who worked on set of Avatar: The Way of Water.

    The Eye Candy-ARADA duo aims to raise $30,000 to compensate the cast and crew and to secure key filming locations near Atlanta. Any funds raised beyond this goal will support film festival submissions and a contribution to the Gwinnett County education department.

    “NAWFSIDE” enters production at a critical time in youth sports, as young athletes and their families wrestle with the effects of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies that have turned high-school sports into a marketplace of brands, influence, and public pressure. Originally designed to allow college athletes to benefit from their image rights, these policies have increasingly influenced high school competition, bringing new challenges around fairness, access, and identity.

    The film approaches these themes through the story of Jaymin Barber, a high school student torn between basketball and music. Caught between personal ambition and the expectations of those around him, Jaymin faces a choice between external success and inner purpose.

    For Gwinnett County native Dilwood, “NAWFSIDE” is a deeply personal project.

    “‘NAWFSIDE’ is my love letter to where I grew up,” Dilwood said. “It’s the mixtape of every hoop dream, heartbreak, and creative spark I’ve ever seen in my community.”

    Damian Delano Young, who portrayed a young Michael Jordan in Ben Affleck’s Air, stars as Jaymin alongside Frantz Calixte, Justin Edwards, and Alessandro Folchitto. Xzaviah J. Stone Sr. serves as lead screenwriter, with Miffy Hornsby as production designer and art director. Tony DiCaro-Smith joins as unit production manager and video editor.

    The crowdfunding campaign will run from October 27 to November 27. Rehearsals are scheduled to take place concurrently with the campaign. Afterward, the team will finalize casting, secure filming locations, and conduct final rehearsals in preparation for production.

    Principal photography is planned for March 4–11, followed by post-production. The completed film is expected to be released in fall 2026, with festival submissions and screenings to follow.

    To learn more about the project or support the campaign, please visit “NAWFSIDE” Short Film on Seed&Spark.

    Press Release Distributed by PRLog

    Source: The ARADA Company

    Follow the full story here: https://przen.com/pr/33596733

  • Thousands to Ride to L.A. Children’s Hospital This Halloween Night

    Thousands to Ride to L.A. Children’s Hospital This Halloween Night

    The nation’s largest and longest-running community bicycle ride will bring costumed joy and solidarity to young patients and families at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

    Oct. 16, 2025 / PRZen / LOS ANGELES — This October 2025, Los Angeles Critical Mass will transform Halloween night into a citywide act of love and visibility. In formal collaboration with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, thousands of cyclists—many in costume—will ride from Koreatown to the hospital, delivering a wave of joy and connection to children facing serious illness.

    Founded in the mid 1990s, Los Angeles Critical Mass is the oldest and largest community bicycle ride in the United States. With thousands of monthly participants and a legacy of joy and solidarity, the ride attracts cyclists from across the country and around the world.

    A Ride That Reaches the Windows

    Participants will gather outside the hospital at a pre-coordinated location. Inside, children across multiple floors will be escorted to the windows to witness the spectacle: a sea of waving hands, colorful costumes, and smiling faces flooding the street with love.

    “Every child in that hospital deserves to feel the energy of the city outside their window,” said Lisa Lundie, President of Los Angeles Critical Mass. “This ride is about showing up—for joy, for visibility, and for love. When thousands of us wave together, it’s not just a gesture. It’s a promise that they’re not alone.”

    “We’ve built something powerful here—thousands of people riding not just for fun, but for purpose,” added Jojo Valdez, Executive VP. “This Halloween, we’re turning the streets into a message: that joy is loud, that solidarity is visible, and that every child watching from those windows matters.”

    Parents and caregivers will be present too, holding their children close as the scene unfolds. For many, it will be the first time in days—or even weeks—that they witness a genuine smile.

    Costumes with Purpose—and Prizes

    This month’s theme is costumes, and participants are encouraged to dress up not only for the children—but for the official Halloween Costume Contest held at the main break. DJ Vicious will award 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes based on creativity and crowd response. Winners will receive hefty gift cards and bragging rights.

    After the Hospital: Hollywood Halloween Dance Party

    Following the hospital visit, the ride will continue toward Hollywood for the annual Halloween dance party. Costumes, music, and celebration will follow—but the emotional heart of the night will have already been defined.

    This month, the joy begins not with a beat, but with a wave.

    Media Contact
    Serena Valdez
    424-253-6087
    media@la-criticalmass.org

    Press Release Distributed by PRLog

    Source: Los Angeles Critical Mass

    Follow the full story here: https://przen.com/pr/33595976

  • Taraji P. Henson’s Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF) Announce 5th Annual Can We Talk? Arts & Wellness Summit and “i AM The Table” Benefit Brunch

    Taraji P. Henson’s Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF) Announce 5th Annual Can We Talk? Arts & Wellness Summit and “i AM The Table” Benefit Brunch

    Featuring Megan Thee Stallion, Wale, Sherri Shepherd, Abby Phillip, Lisa Vidal, Dr. Jay Barnett and More. BLHF, in Partnership with Prince George’s County Council Chair Edward P. Burroughs III, Will Present the Can We Talk? Multi-Cultural Arts & Wellness Summit To Recognize World Mental Health Day with Three Days of Culture, Healing, and Community, October 10-12, 2025 at National Harbor, MD.

    Oct. 11, 2025 / PRZen / NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. — The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF), founded by Academy Award–nominated actress, producer, author, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate Taraji P. Henson in partnership with Prince George’s County Council Chair Edward P. Burroughs III, proudly announces the return of its transformative 5th Annual Can We Talk? (CWT) Multicultural Arts & Wellness Summit, taking place October 10–12, 2025 at National Harbor.

    The summit will honor World Mental Health Day (Oct. 10) with a three-day experience blending art, culture, and healing to break down mental health stigma in marginalized communities. The Summit convenes therapists, wellness practitioners, cultural leaders, policymakers, celebrities, and community members for an immersive three-day experience centered in culture, healing, belonging, global wellness practices and will feature a World Art Bazaar. Made possible in part through funding provided by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County.

    Rooted in BLHF’s mission to eradicate the stigma around mental health in marginalized communities, the Summit has become a cultural homecoming—a space where stories are shared, ancient traditions honored, and families and communities strengthened.

    On Sunday, October 12th – BLHF will present the inaugural “i AM The Table” Benefit Brunch: Hosted by Taraji P. Henson with celebrity guests;  Megan Thee Stallion (Three-time, Grammy award-winning superstar, entrepreneur and philanthropist), Wale (Artist, Entrepreneur), Sherri Shepherd (Actress, Comedian, Emmy-winning Daytime Talk Show Host), Abby Phillip (CNN Anchor), Lisa Vidal (Actress, Producer), Dr. Jay Barnett (Author, Mental Health Expert).  Through inspiring conversations, our guests will honor tradition, uplift resilience, and celebrate joy.

    “Humans need Humans,” said Taraji P. Henson, Founder of BLHF. “We want communities everywhere to collectively build tables of joy. We’re creating spaces that honor safety, belonging and dignity, where people feel seen, and empowered to heal, here at home and in communities around the world.”

    “I’m honored to partner with the Boris L. Henson Foundation on our biggest event to date,” said Prince George’s County Council Chair Edward Burroughs. “At the close of the weekend, I will be making an exciting announcement regarding a substantial extension of our partnership that will bring meaningful and lasting benefits to Prince George’s County. BLHF exemplifies a true dedication to its mission, demonstrating its commitment through transformative action. Together we are not just envisioning change, we are making it a reality.”

    Tracie Jade Jenkins, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, states: “The ‘Can We Talk?’ Summit is both a community celebration and a global call to action. We need each other now more than ever. Behind every number is a heartbeat. A dreamer. A survivor. Someone who deserves not only to survive, but to thrive. Together, leaning on the traditions of those who came before us, we want to remember our power to heal both individually and collectively. We will raise funds to support wellness resources for communities in need.”

    Event Highlights

    Friday, October 10 – World Mental Health Day

    • Panel Discussions & Healing Circles: Groundbreaking conversations such as “When the Village Feels Divided: Bridging Beliefs & Generations” and “All God’s Children Got Wings”, “They Look Like Us”,  with Healing circles that feature cultural practices such as Ring Shouts and Afro-Indigenous Choctaw sound medicine.
    • Networking & Concert: An exclusive networking reception at MGM National Harbor. Summit participants will attend an electrifying concert to end the evening.

    Saturday, October 11

    • Art & Integrative Wellness Activations: Workshops across National Harbor featuring over 20 traditional multicultural healing practices, including Japanese forest bathing, Capoeira, and a Heritage Aroma Bar.
    • World Art Bazaar: Exhibitors presenting multicultural art, crafts, and therapeutic resources.

    Sunday, October 12 – Signature Event

    • “i AM The Table” Benefit Brunch: Hosted by Taraji P. Henson with live jazz, red carpet arrivals, an intimate VIP experience and inspiring conversations with special guests; Megan Thee Stallion, Sherri Shepherd, Abby Phillip, Lisa Vidal, Wale, and Dr. Jay Barnett.

    A Cultural Movement in Mental Wellness

    Corporate partners, sponsors, and community allies are invited to join this cultural milestone. Every conversation plants seeds of transformation, and every dollar raised fuels BLHF’s mission of breaking down mental health stigma and building lasting resilience in marginalized communities.

    About the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF)

    Founded in 2018 by Taraji P. Henson and Tracie Jade Jenkins, the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF) honors the legacy of Taraji’s father, Boris Lawrence Henson, a Vietnam veteran who battled untreated mental health challenges. Born from personal experience and a lack of culturally relevant support, BLHF is dedicated to destigmatizing mental health in BIPOC and underrepresented communities.

    Through culturally competent therapy referrals, wellness resources, awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives, BLHF provides vital support and empowers individuals to prioritize their well-being. With a trusted reputation and unwavering commitment, the foundation continues to break barriers, promote acceptance, and expand access to mental health care.

    Website: www.borislhensonfoundation.org

    Social Media:

    Media Contact
    Priscilla Clarke
    Clarke PR Global, LLC
    202-723-2200
    priscilla@clarkepr.com

    Press Release Distributed by PRLog

    Source: Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation

    Follow the full story here: https://przen.com/pr/33595463

  • NYC Public School Music Teacher & Singer-Songwriter Craig Klonowski Submits Five Songs for GRAMMY® Consideration

    NYC Public School Music Teacher & Singer-Songwriter Craig Klonowski Submits Five Songs for GRAMMY® Consideration

    From Cleveland roots to a New York classroom and Grammy voting, Klonowski pairs education impact with emotionally charged folk-rock

    Oct. 7, 2025 / PRZen / NEW YORK — Singer-songwriter Craig Klonowski announces five of his recent releases are eligible for GRAMMY® first round voting consideration.  Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Craig is currently a New York City public-school music teacher in his 16th year.  Known for “melancholy but hopeful” storytelling through music, Klonowski’s work bridges the rehearsal room and the classroom, with songs shaped by the resilience he sees in students and himself every day.  He has burst onto the music scene, achieving over 100,000 Spotify streams in his first year on the platform.

    “I teach kids music all morning and make music all night,” says Klonowski. “These songs were written in the middle of big life changes—about loss, rebuilding, and choosing to move forward. That’s what I try to model for my students, too.”

    For Your Consideration — 2024–25 eligibility

    • “Milestones” — Best Americana Performance
    • “One Last Night” — Best Alternative Music Performance
    • “I Disappear” — Best Rock Song
    • “Wreck of a Man” — Best Country Solo Performance
    • “Makin’ Promises” — Best Country Song

    Listening Links:

    Education & Community Impact (NYC)

    Working with producer Nick Anton, Craig distilled the emotion of his divorce, loss of his dog, and big life changes into melancholy but hopeful Grammy contenders. For over a decade, Craig has been principal double bass with the United Nations Symphony Orchestra. In 2010 Klonowski moved to NYC and founded the music program at Esperanza Preparatory Academy in Spanish Harlem.  He currently directs eight orchestras at Middle School.  Klonowski founded The Half Full Institute, a nonprofit that puts instruments into young musicians’ hands.

    Cleveland/Ohio Roots

    Klonowski began at the Cleveland Institute of Music and The Music Settlement, with degrees from The Ohio State University (B.M.E.) and Cleveland State University (M.M.Ed.). Klonowski served as Assistant Education Director at Cleveland Play House, and performed with orchestras across Ohio and the Midwest. While finishing his master’s at CSU, he also worked as a flight attendant, the twist that ultimately helped him land his first NYC teaching role. Craig’s next destination – Los Angeles for the Grammy Awards.

    Interview & Performance Options

    • Conversation + 2–3 live songs (voice + acoustic guitar/keys)
    • Clean lyrics and radio-friendly arrangements
    • Minimal tech: 1 vocal mic + 1 DI
    • Available in-studio or remote; scheduling flexible around the school day

    Streaming & EPK

    Media Contact

    Craig Klonowski
    Email: craig@craigklonowski.com
    Phone: 614-937-3940

    Press Release Distributed by PRLog

    Source: Craig Klonowski

    Follow the full story here: https://przen.com/pr/33594997

  • U.S. Creative Chosen as Dual Judge for China’s Most Prestigious Animation & Comics Awards

    U.S. Creative Chosen as Dual Judge for China’s Most Prestigious Animation & Comics Awards

    Historic Cultural Exchange: China Selects Hollywood Creative Executive Rick Law for Unprecedented Dual Final Judge Role in Animation and Comics Awards

    Oct. 2, 2025 / PRZen / GUANGZHOU, China — Disney veteran chosen for dual top judging honor at both the Golden Monkey King Awards and CACC Golden Dragon Awards

    In a historic cultural exchange, the People’s Republic of China has selected Rick Law, Hollywood creative executive and longtime Disney collaborator, for an unprecedented honor: serving as distinguished final judge for both the nation’s two most prestigious state-supported awards in animation and comics—the Golden Monkey King Awards (China’s highest official honor for animation excellence, presented at the China International Cartoon & Animation Festival [CICAF], Hangzhou) and the CACC Golden Dragon Awards (regarded as “China’s Academy Award of animation & comics,” presented at the China International Comics Festival [CICF], Guangzhou).

    This appointment marks the first time a non-Chinese executive has served in this dual, top-level judging capacity for both awards in a single year.

    In May 2025, Mr. Law was appointed as final in-person judge and presenter at the Golden Monkey King Awards. In September 2025, he was additionally invited as final judge for the Golden Dragon Awards, underscoring the trust and distinction placed in him by China’s cultural and creative community.

    “Animation and comics are universal languages that connect and inspire cultures,” stated Mr. Law.

    Mr. Law’s recognition in China follows decades of creative partnership. He was a key creative in Disney’s expansion into China, serving as creative lead in the design and launch of Disney English—a major educational initiative in China; acting as consultant in the development of the Shanghai Disney Resort; initiating the Disney English Toys line—introducing modern educational toys to the Chinese market; and creating Kung-Fu Mickey Mouse (功夫米老鼠), which inspired the popular children’s book series written by Yang Peng. His collaborations with Chinese toy licensee MINDStyle further demonstrate his role as a cultural bridge who respects Chinese storytelling traditions.

    “Rick Law’s work demonstrates that true globalization is not a one-way export, but a two-way cultural chemical reaction,” commented a professor from the China Academy of Art, emphasizing Mr. Law’s contributions embody cross-cultural impact.

    About the Awards:

    The Golden Monkey King Awards are China’s highest official state honor for animation excellence. Presented annually at the China International Cartoon & Animation Festival (CICAF) in Hangzhou, the awards are sponsored by the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio and Television of the People’s Republic of China and the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Government.

    The CACC Golden Dragon Awards, hosted at the China International Comics Festival (CICF) in Guangzhou, are recognized as “China’s Academy Award of animation & comics,” celebrating outstanding achievements in animation, comics, and manhua through a dedicated state-supported body.

    Press Release Distributed by PRLog

    Source: China Media Info

    Follow the full story here: https://przen.com/pr/33594682

  • Delirious Comedy Club Expands to Two Rooms and Secures Google’s #1 Rated Comedy Club in Las Vegas

    Delirious Comedy Club Expands to Two Rooms and Secures Google’s #1 Rated Comedy Club in Las Vegas

    With a rotating lineup of national touring comedians—including acts seen on The Tonight Show, Comedy Central, Netflix, and HBO every night promises something new with special guests and more.

    Oct. 2, 2025 / PRZen / LAS VEGAS — Delirious Comedy Club, the entertainment gem of Downtown Las Vegas and Silver Sevens Casino, is proud to announce its expansion to two showrooms—bringing even more laughter and magic to the Entertainment Capital of the World. Already recognized as the top-rated Las Vegas comedy club on Google, Delirious continues to deliver world-class entertainment at unbeatable prices.

    Resident comedian and producer Don Barnhart himself rotates between both clubs, keeping fans guessing where they’ll see him next. Special surprise guests and celebrities also drop in when they’re in town, making each show a must-see event.

    “In challenging times, laughter and wonder are the best medicine,” says Don Barnhart. “At Delirious, we’re proud to offer both — comedy for adults and magic for the whole family.”

    🎤 Delirious Comedy Club – Downtown (Inside Hennessey’s Tavern on Fremont Street)

    • Showtimes: Tuesday – Sunday at 7pm, plus Friday & Saturday at 9pm
    • Comedy Showcase: Tuesdays & Wednesdays feature The Best of Las Vegas, Special Surprise Guests, New Faces, and Nationally Touring Headliners
    • Perks: Full food & bar service inside the showroom, plus crazy drink prices that keep the good times rolling.

    🎤 Delirious Comedy Club – Silver Sevens Hotel & Casino

    • Showtimes (Comedy): Thursday – Sunday at 7pm, plus Friday & Saturday at 9pm
    • Showtime (Magic): The House of Magic at 5pm, Thursday – Sunday
    • Magicians: Resident magician Michael DeSchalit with rotating guest magicians Chad Chesmark, Justin Rivera, and Joan Dukore
    • Perks: Insane drink prices and snacks available right in the showroom, free parking, and a full dinner menu before or after the show at City Café—located directly across from the showroom.

    Delirious Comedy Club and The House of Magic both earn glowing praise from fans on Google:

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Hands down the best comedy club in Vegas! Great comics, intimate atmosphere, and so much fun.”

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This place is a hidden gem. Affordable tickets, amazing drink specials, and non-stop laughs.”

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The House of Magic was unbelievable! Family-friendly, funny, and amazing illusions that had our kids talking all night.”

    Tickets start at just $19.95 with promo code “FRIEND”, making Delirious Comedy Club and The House of Magic the most affordable entertainment in Las Vegas. With intimate venues, every seat is close to the action, ensuring guests feel part of the show.

    Get Your Tickets Now: www.DeliriousComedyClub.com

    Press Release Distributed by PRLog

    Source: Comedy News Report

    Follow the full story here: https://przen.com/pr/33594620