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Gravitas Acquires Thomas Sadoski Comedy ‘THE MIMIC’

For Immediate Release

GRAVITAS VENTURES ACQUIRES

STAR-STUDDED COMEDY ‘THE MIMIC’ 

WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY

THOMAS F. MAZZIOTTI 

Slated for Day and Date Release on February 5, 2021

Los Angeles, CA (December 10, 2020) — Gravitas Ventures, a Red Arrow Studios company, has acquired worldwide rights to distribute Thomas F. Mazziotti’s THE MIMIC. Written and directed by Mazziotti, THE MIMIC stars Thomas Sadoski, Jake Robinson, Austin Pendleton, Gina Gershon, Jessica Walter, M. Emmet Walsh, Jessica Keenan Wynn, and Josh Pais. After a successful world premiere at the 2020 Cinequest Film Festival, the comedy is slated to release in theaters and on demand on February 5, 2021.

Based on a true story, ‘the Narrator’ (Thomas Sadoski) is befriended by his young new neighbor (Jake Robinson), after he joins the local newspaper team. Obsessed with the idea that ‘the Kid’ may be a sociopath, ‘the Narrator’ goes to extreme lengths to uncover the truth about him. After unsettling rendezvous, the truth he finds is anything but what he expected.

“Sociopaths have been portrayed as a shady bunch up until now. Inspired by true events, this confrontational comedy explores the uncharted territory of the lighter side of a sociopath,” says Mazziotti. “I applaud Gravitas Ventures introducing audiences to an alternate character dynamic which has yet to be portrayed under comedic scrutiny on screen.. yet he lives among us all.”

Mimic’s script really impressed. The way the cast brings the dialogue to life really captures the imagination and delivers a high dose of classic entertainment. We’re very excited to be working with Thomas F. Mazziotti to bring his film out to the public.” Said Nick Royak, Senior Acquisitions Manager at Gravitas Ventures.

Gravitas Ventures Acquisitions Manager, Nick Royak negotiated the deal with Glen Reynolds from Circus Road films.

About Gravitas Ventures

Gravitas Ventures, a Red Arrow Studios company, is a leading all rights distributor of independent feature films and documentaries. Founded in 2006, Gravitas connects independent filmmakers and producers with distribution opportunities across the globe. Working with talented directors and producers, Gravitas Ventures has distributed thousands of films into over a hundred million homes in North America – over one billion homes worldwide. Recent releases include The Secret: Dare to Dream, directed by Andy Tennant and starring Katie Holmes; End of Sentence starring Logan Lerman and John Hawkes; Looks that Kill; Tread; Loopers: The Caddie’s Long Walk, narrated by Bill Murray; Colin Hanks’ All Things Must Pass; and the upcoming Our Friend starring Casey Affleck, Dakota Johnson, and Jason Segel. For more information, please visit gravitasventures.com, and follow @GravitasVOD on Twitter and @gravitasventures on Instagram.

About Red Arrow Studios

Red Arrow Studios is one of the world’s leading creators and distributors of entertainment content, comprised of an acclaimed network of international production companies and labels in seven territories; world-leading digital studio, Studio71, based in six countries; and global film and TV distributors Red Arrow Studios International and Gravitas Ventures. The group’s significant output includes scripted, non-scripted and formatted content and IP, from TV and film to short-form and branded content, made for an array of global networks and platforms. Red Arrow Studios is part of ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE, one of Europe’s leading media groups. redarrowstudios.com

Home Improvements: DIY or Professional?

When making renovations to improve your home, it can be tempting to do it all yourself.

But while DIY projects can certainly save you money — and sometimes even be fun — it’s not always the best move for your home (or your wallet). Taking on projects that are out of your wheelhouse can lead to costly repairs or even safety hazards.

Are you planning some updates around the house? Learn when you can DIY it and when it’s better to hire a professional.

Do It Yourself:

  • Painting: As long as you take your time and tape off the parts you don’t want painted, you should be able to handle this project, whether it’s your walls or your cabinets.
  • Installing a Backsplash: While not as easy as painting, there are some pretty good tutorials you can find to guide your way. Be sure to choose your grout and tile at the same time to ensure they match.
  • Adding Baseboards: Baseboards are pretty easy to install, too. You’ll just need some pre-cut boards from a home improvement store, some small nails and a bit of paint.

Hire a Professional:

  • Window Replacements: This is a big job — not to mention one that impacts how safe and comfortable your home is. Because of this, it’s in your best interest to call a pro.
  • Electrical and Plumbing: Unless you have special training in electrical or plumbing work, you shouldn’t consider taking on these projects. The end result might be dangerous, costly or even in violation of local code.
  • Demolitions or Major Additions: Calling in a professional to a project like this is especially important if it involves load-bearing walls.

Keep in mind that some projects, particularly ones that are larger or on the exterior of your home, may require permits. A good local contractor will know when these are needed and how to get them, so reach out for referrals.

5 Notable Changes in Home Showings

It’s been a year unlike any other. And though real estate has fared well through all of 2020’s ups and downs, it has had to evolve in some ways.

One of the things that’s changed the most is home showings. Gone are the days of crowded open houses and parades of buyers streaming through properties.

Are you considering buying or selling a home soon? Here are some new things you might expect from the showing process.

  1. There are more pre-scheduled private showings. Most in-person showings now involve one potential buyer and their agent. Of course, sellers generally like a heads-up so they can sanitize the property appropriately.
  2. PPE is often required. Sellers may request that buyers wear masks, gloves and shoe covers — or that they don’t touch anything. You could also expect hand sanitizer throughout the property.
  3. You’ll fill out disclosures and questionnaires. If you’re a buyer, you’ll likely need to fill out various forms regarding your health and agreeing to the terms of the showing before entering a property.
  4. Buyers are generally more serious. Most homebuyers are only viewing properties they’re very interested in, cutting down on the total number of showings. This may make things easier for buyers and sellers.
  5. Everyone is focused on digital options. Thorough video tours and 3D walk-throughs are more widely available on listings as an initial way of vetting a property. Buying sight unseen is becoming more popular too.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a property in the coming months, get in touch for guidance.

Nicole Kasten

Licensed Broker Associate

COLFAX REALTY GROUP

www.nicolekasten-miamiliving.com

nkasten@colfaxrealty.com

Hank’s Fine Steaks & Martinis

HANKS FINE STEAKS & MARTINIS IN GREEN VALLEY RANCH CASINO

I hadn’t been there in 10 years, but good friends invited us to go Saturday night.  Lovely ambiance, nice wait staff, everyone seated appropriately apart. 

I started with a watermelon martini and my other half went for a dirty martini. Our host is a beer expert, but unfortunately they don’t serve any of our local beers which we both would have tried.  The happy hour is 4-7, for drinks only, but we indulged in a few more appetizers than we really needed.  Chicken and beef sliders, great calamari, and Ahi Tuna tacos, all served on small plates for three.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I can never figure out why restaurants don’t serve two or four, always three.  Our one host ordered the full meal of fried chicken which looked great and came with a big bowl of mashed potatoes with a wonderful chicken gravy.  Dessert was a superb bananas foster, with 4 scoops of ice cream, enough for our party of four.  

 

 

 

 

The guitarist was directly behind our table. We thought we might get drowned out but he was mellow and played great songs. Rumor has it he was on America’s Got Talent a few years back—very, very nice. Manager Diego Montemayer came over when we told him we were doing a review on the place.  The menu is quite pricey, but I strongly suggest the happy hour.

Success Involves Taking Risks

When it comes to achieving success, it’s important to have specific goals. Achieving these goals requires careful planning and a lot of hard work as true success cannot be achieved without putting forth the effort. It’s also important to note that when amazing opportunities come our way, it’s going to involve risk-taking on our part.

Risk is important when it comes to successfully achieving our big goals. All successful people will tell you that they have taken some amount of risk at some point on their success journey. The bottom line is—if you want to be successful at a high-level, you have to be willing to take risks.

The reason why many people are not willing to take risks when it comes to opportunities is they have a fear of what the outcome may be. This is called the “fear of failure.” There also may be a fear of losing (so called) security.

For myself, since I was 18 years old, I have always been in the field of direct selling–commission-based sales. I recall many family members and friends urging me to not do it and get a job with security. Now, there’s nothing wrong with having those type of jobs but for me, I have always been excited about having an opportunity where I can create my own destiny. In other words, success will be based on my attitude and, more importantly, my performance. Along with this comes risks. For example, “What happens if I do not perform?” That particular risk is not making any money.

The key is to focus on the big picture and to visualize the success that can be accomplished. Sure, there are risks but that is not going to stop me because I know the rewards are far superior than the risks. Keep this in mind, if you risk nothing then you risk everything.

I want to be very clear though, taking risks doesn’t have to be random. A lot of thought process should go into making decisions before taking the risks, it’s important to weigh out the pros and cons of the opportunity. Remember also to keep it positive. Once the pros and cons are figured out and you know in your mind that you can have great success, make a decision to go for it. Take that risk and don’t look back.

As I often reflect on the opportunity we have at RMS, there is no doubt that one has to get excited about it and then take a leap of faith and make the decision to do what it takes to have success. Believe me, it’s much better to say, “I’m so glad I did” rather than “I wish I would have”.

If a person has the desire to take risks, he or she will find ways to overcome the obstacles and challenges that will come during the journey. The most successful people in the world have made a decision to take a risk and that is why they have become the best over a period of time. They understand that success is a journey and can’t be accomplished in one day. Think of all the successful people that have invented or accomplished great things. If they did not take that risk or leap of faith, the world would be a different place.

Life is short. We have a choice to either take the risks to accomplish great things in life or not take the risk and live with regret. Make the decision, believe in yourself and take that leap of faith. Your future self will thank you.

Have a super fantastic week!

RICH NORTON

Regional Sales Manager RMS

Edgar Allan Poe: Stories and Poems

During childhood in the 1960s and early 70s I enjoyed horror films; especially the British Hammer movies or the Roger Corman variety.  The latter frequently included adaptations of the works of Edgar Allan Poe: for example, the 1961 version of “Pit and the Pendulum” which has always stood out in my memory.  As a result, this iconic writer became one of my early literary loves. 

I think I was in fourth grade when I first read Poe, beginning with “The Tell-Tale Heart”.  And in high school, I must have read “A Descent into the Maelstrom” a dozen times.  It is a strange and memorable story but many other Poe tales are just as good.  There is “The Masque of the Red Death”, which concerns the arrogant elitist, Prince Prospero, whose carousing during a time of plague is quietly crashed by a mysterious and ominous figure—‘tall and gaunt, and shrouded from head to foot in the habiliments of the grave’.  This tale has the thought-provoking force of a Biblical parable.  (The 1964 film adaptation of “The Masque of the Red Death”, while interesting in its own right and visually beautiful, bears only a superficial resemblance to its literary source).  Other Poe stories that are well worth reading are “William Wilson”, “Eleonora”, “The Oval Portrait” and “Ms. Found in a Bottle”.  

Some of Poe’s fictional pieces are surprisingly humorous, like “The Spectacles”, which is about a vain young man who refuses to wear eyeglasses and as a consequence marries his great-great-grandmother without realizing it. 

His poetry has been deservedly admired: for example, “To Helen”, “The Valley of Unrest”, “Ulalume”, “Alone”, and, of course, “The Raven”, with its often quoted (and sometimes parodied) opening:

‘Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary,

Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore—

While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping…’ etc.

But my favorite Poe poem is the one which begins:

‘It was many and many a year ago,

In a kingdom by the sea

That a maiden there lived whom you may know

By the name of Annabel Lee;

And this maiden she lived with no other thought

Than to love and be loved by me…’

One gathers that Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849) lived a poverty stricken, tormented and sometimes tragic life.  He died quite young and from causes that were never determined.  However, he was not the alcoholic or addict that some have supposed him to be.  His influence has been enormous.  He was the forerunner of mystery and detective fiction; and Charles Baudelaire, who translated Poe into French, greatly admired him.  Then there are the innumerable film adaptations of Poe’s work; some of which are good though most are not.

Poe shared with Nathaniel Hawthorne a distinctively American vision of darkness.  And yet this vision was rendered artfully, not in a merely negative or pessimistic manner.  That is why both authors are so enjoyable to read.

Photo by Laura Chouette on Unsplash

3 Kinds Of Foods To Include For Optimum Immune Health

3 Kinds Of Foods To Include For Optimum Immune Health – And Why You Need Them

Almost 3 percent of adults have weakened immune systems, and in the past, studies have linked the typical American diet to immunity damage. For those with signs of a weakened immune system like constant levels of high stress, increased frequency of colds and viruses, or increased fatigue, spending a little more time on keeping your immunity levels on track can be quite simple – but it pays off in great ways.

Don’t Forget To Get That Protein In

A recent study published in the British Journal of Nutrition showed that a lack of protein could lead to impaired immunity. This is because protein is responsible for building your T cells, which are part of your immune system. It is those cells which fight off infections that enter your bloodstream. It is important to note that eating too much protein and eating too little protein can lead to the same result: fatigue and a weak immune system.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends that adults get 0.8 to 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. If you want to increase your protein intake, try including one source of lean protein with each of your meals. Lean pieces of beef or chicken, and seafood, are rich in zinc. Zinc accelerates the production of white blood cells, which fight infections. So in addition to choosing lean sources of protein, be mindful of the way you prepare them so you don’t reduce the nutritional value. For instance, steamed vegetables are generally recommended for high nutritional value, while grilling is recommended for a lower fat, healthier alternative to fried foods. If you are worried about the flavor, marinating your protein in fresh herbs and spices can add incredible flavor. Be mindful of good cooking practices to protect yourself while barbequing outside. To avoid the mishandling food and possible food poisoning, remember to keep your meats separate from your other ingredients.

Grab Some Peppers And Broccoli For Your Vitamin C Fix

Vitamin C is widely known for its immune-boosting abilities. In fact, it is one of the go-to supplements people take to increase immunity during cold and flu season. Vitamin C increases the production of lymphocytes, which help to protect your body against infections. It has also been shown to improve the skin’s natural defense, and reduce the longevity of viruses like the common cold.

However, most experts agree that the key to reaping the benefits that Vitamin C can offer lies in the regular consumption of it. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, one cup of red bell peppers includes up to 211 percent of your daily Vitamin C intake. Meanwhile, half of a cup of broccoli with one of your meals will get you 43 percent of your recommended Vitamin C intake.

Don’t Forget Power Boosting Seeds Like Chia And Pumpkin Seeds

Another way to boost your immunity is to include superfood seeds in your daily diet regime. Chia seeds taste delicious on your morning granola, and also contain high levels of antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids. For a healthy snack, reach for sunflower or pumpkin seeds. One ounce of sunflower seeds contains 49 percent of your daily recommended dose of Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant.

Remember To Match Your Diet Needs To Your Age

A common mistake people make is not eating for their age. As people get older, their immune systems can change, often becoming slower to respond. Also, older people tend to eat less frequently, which places them at risk for not meeting their nutrient requirements. Therefore, it is important to match your diet to your age requirements.

If you are older and faced with these changes, it is even more important that you fill in those gaps with extra servings of fresh fruits, vegetables, and immunity-boosting foods. If you find it difficult, you can also include a daily multivitamin in your regime. Finally, remember to keep updating your diet as your lifestyle and age changes so that you can ensure your immune system is at its best all the time.

Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash

And Now, For My Final Acts of 2020…

And Now, For My Final Acts of 2020…

A choice of musical escapes!

By Vanessa Hundley, aka DJ Audioprism

Entertainment and Life Scrivener

2020 was a whole different level of chaos for me. And I am not unused to chaotic happenings! As with many of you, I had very different plans for this year. The preceding few years had been a mix of growth and change on many levels, but it seems it was all in preparation for this new chapter of the world. Or at least, that’s my 2020 take on it!

So, as we are just a little less than one month away from discovering what the mysterious destination of 2021 holds for us, let’s take full advantage of the technical advances that allow myself and other DJs to spin everything our hearts desire and join me on Mixcloud at

https://www.mixcloud.com/DJAudioprism/ 

for an assortment of Listen In mix shows programmed to bring you the best of almost anything musical. There’s something for everyone, and of course there will be plenty of holiday gaiety woven throughout! The full schedule is below as well for quick reference. 🙂   You can also catch replays of the shows I’ve been putting together all throughout this year.  Be safe, wear your masks, and let’s keep keeping on through all this! – Vanessa aka DJ Audioprism

Listen In with DJ Audioprism (All show times Eastern US)

Thursday 12/3   9pm – Audioprism International (American and International Dance Mix)

Saturday 12/5   9pm – Back to Bellbottoms (70s and 80s Retro Club Mix)

Monday 12/7    5pm – Malt Shoppes & Muscle Cars – Holiday Edition! (50s and 60s radio format show)

Thursday 12/10   10pm – The Dance Electric (90s & 00s Club Mix)

Sunday 12/13   9pm- Simmer Down Sunday (Mellow Groove Mix)

Tuesday 12/15   8pm – Retro Redo #6 (Hits you’ve heard before like you haven’t heard them before!)

Monday 12/21  5pm  – Off The Charts (Indie and Global musicians you won’t find on the music charts!)

Thursday 12/24   7pm – Holly Jolly Dance Mix (A happy anything-goes mix of top hits and holiday remixes)

AND

Monday 12/28 – The 2020 Content Roundup!

It’s an all day online extravaganza with me, DJ Audioprism! Starting at 12 pm and going until 12 am, I will be revisiting conversations and party moments from 2020 that have been immortalized either here on Mixcloud or on my streaming interview show, Cut & Mix! There will be personal behind-the-scenes commentary, plus the occasional surprise guest sharing some of their own 2020 experiences and what they hope for in the months to come. 

Be sure to follow me on Mixcloud, too, and never miss when I go live there! Sometimes I jump on just for fun or because I am inspired. Hugs and care to one and all!

Watch the show trailer on YouTube

Vanessa Hundley aka DJ Audioprism is  owner of Audioprism Entertainment, is a full time DJ/VJ/KJ/MC, Web and TV Personality, and Wonder Woman who incorporates her love of music and everything entertainment into all facets of her life. She resides in Atlanta, GA, with her amazing daughter, fabulous partner, and a variety of fuzzy friends intent on taking over the world one clump of fur at a time. Follow her on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Mixcloud for everything

 DJ Audioprism!

Social Media LInks:

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

YouTube:               https://www.youtube.com/c/audioprismentertainmentshow

Mixcloud:              https://www.mixcloud.com/djaudioprism/

FB business page:  https://www.facebook.com/audioprismentertainment/

 FB fan page:         https://www.facebook.com/djaudioprism/

Twitter:                 https://twitter.com/djaudioprism

Best Cinnamon Rolls in Vegas

BEST CINNAMON ROLLS IN ALL OF LAS VEGAS 

As the owner of Homies Cinnamon Rolls in Las Vegas, Nevada, Harold D. Rose, draws on a lifetime of experience. Starting out mowing neighbors’ lawns and washing their cars at the age of 8, he soon realized he wanted to have his own business. Harold served in the US Navy and worked as an entertainer in San Diego, before opening his Homies Cinnamon Rolls in Nevada. 

He has a contract with San Diego Padres Stadium and has signed one in Las Vegas with the Raiders. Homies has earned two feature mentions from Baking and Buying magazine, which has also ranked the company in top place, above the well-known Cinnabon brand. ESPN honored him in its five-star Treat to Eat rating.  

I stopped in to see this place, less than a mile from my home, and was so happy I did. There at 7 a.m., Harold was rolling out huge batches of dough; Harold was cooking for an army, even in these tough times. The restaurant had all 4-person seating, very well-spaced if you wish to eat in. Up until the summer, Harold was serving breakfast and lunch but now has cut back. 

Homies has sponsored the San Diego Chargers’ blood drive as well as fundraising efforts by the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Las Vegas charities that Homies Cinnamon Rolls has been involved with include: Chet Buchanan 98.5 FM KLUC in the radio drive, donating bikes every year. Also, Homies baked and donated cinnamon rolls for comedian Brad Garrett Celebrity Poker tournament benefiting “Hope Charity”.

All of his rolls are amazingly delicious. They include standard, apple cinnamon, raisin cinnamon, pecan pleasure, and fruit buns. A 6 pack to go is $18 and a 12 pack goes for $33. Everything is fresh, reasonably priced, ready for eat in or pick-up, and plenty of parking in front. As soon as Covid lets up, be sure to go in for a great meal.

Located at 3035 E. Tropicana Ave, in the Walmart Shopping complex. 702-433-0839 to place an order.

Develop an Attitude of Gratitude

Thanksgiving is a holiday that, unfortunately, we all often take for granted. It seems like right after Halloween, more and more people seem to skip Thanksgiving and jump right into Christmas.

I love the Thanksgiving holiday and believe it teaches us a wonderful lesson that we should commit to keeping all the time. The lesson is to always keep an attitude of gratitude, it is the best attitude to have. It’s almost impossible to be negative when you have a spirit of Thanksgiving, and there’s no happier person than a truly thankful, content person.

Having an attitude of gratitude also contributes to being healthier. Studies show that thankful people tend to eat healthier and develop stronger immune systems. When we are thankful, we cope with stress better and we also sleep better. Having an attitude of gratitude gives us more energy which increases our productivity.

Successful people practice gratitude, that’s part of it. Successful people enjoy happiness and they are thankful for all that life has to offer.

Have you found yourself perhaps being a little less thankful than you should be? Here are some ways to develop an “attitude of gratitude.”

1) Start a gratitude journal.

For the next 30 days, take a few moments each morning and write down some things you’re thankful for. Make a commitment to do this and be very specific. You will be amazed how your thoughts become much more positive.

2) Share with others.

We’ve always had a tradition before our Thanksgiving meal to share what we are grateful for. Make it a habit to talk about what you are grateful for ALL the time, this will reinforce your feelings. If you are really thankful, start sharing with others.

3) Spend time meditating.

Throughout the day, take time to meditate or pray and give thanks. Focus on a spirit of gratitude. What and who are you thankful for?

4) Express gratitude to others.

Gratitude is a great form of courtesy. There have been many people along your journey that have made a difference in your life, both big and small. Reach out to them and let them know. Writing an email, sending a text or a card goes a long way.

5) Surround yourself with thankful people.

If you really want to be thankful, start hanging around with people who have an attitude of gratitude. Their attitude will rub off on you. Being around people with an attitude of gratitude in all things will certainly change your outlook on life.

The best attitude to have at all times is “an attitude of gratitude.” Make a commitment to celebrate Thanksgiving every day, keep your focus on being grateful. I promise that you will enjoy life much more.

What are you thankful for? Have an awesome week!

RICH NORTON

Regional Sales Manager RMS

Image by hudsoncrafted from Pixabay