tommyj Archive - The Image Of Magazine

Author Archive

Game on

Posted on: October 12th, 2013 by tommyj

Grand Theft Auto V screen shot.jpg Grand […]

Click here to view full article

Inside the New iHeartRadio Theater Los Angeles

Posted on: October 12th, 2013 by tommyj

Exclusive: Inside the New iHeartRadio Theater Los […]

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Posted on: October 9th, 2013 by tommyj

From the Editor

The Image Of Magazine is proud to lend its support and promoting Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Most os the chatter in the media is geared toward the dis-functional 113th Congress, and those who represent no one but their own common interest. What is being drowned out are the heroines that have gone through much tougher battles than standing and talking in front of so called colleagues and treating them and our government as the enemy within. There are women who’s struggles have taken them to the brink of a bitter, real fight for survival…to live. I will not comment on, or take away from the men and women who are doing the real deeds of Americans by letting the chatter of misfits speak louder than HERO”s, working for the GOOD of humanity.

There are many great causes and charities that are doing great deeds. We at TIOM will list and post stories and events for the month of October that champion the cause of those with breast cancer and the survivors who’s passion to live should be noted and publicized. Their stories can be inspiring for those going through any life threatening condition, or even apersonal struggle that can cause one to want to stop and give up. What we see and hear does not begin to reveal the hurt and pain of someone that is in the middle of that fight. I’ve never been there but I can only share a image that I have kept with me for years…Never Give Up. This post recognizes The National Breast Cancer Foundation

HOW NBCF STARTED

The National Breast Cancer Foundation was founded in 1991 by breast cancer survivor, Janelle Hail. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1980 at the age of 34. At the time of her diagnosis, there was little information about the disease, and she was forced to make a decision about her health with few options. After her treatment, Janelle made a commitment to help women around the world by educating them about breast cancer and the importance of early detection.

THE MISSION OF NBCF

NBCF’s mission is to save lives through early detection and to provide mammograms for those in need. This mission includes increasing awareness through education, providing diagnostic breast care services for those in need, and providing nurturing support services.

Breast cancer is one of the leading health crises for women in the United States. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. There is currently no known cure for breast cancer, and its early diagnosis is critical to survival.

According to The National Cancer Institute (NCI), getting a high-quality mammogram and having a clinical breast exam on a regular basis are the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early. The National Cancer Institute recommends women age 40 and older receive annual mammogram screenings to provide early detection of breast cancer.

However, with increased healthcare costs and a rapidly increasing percentage of uninsured women, many simply cannot afford the cost of screening tests. These women are at a significantly higher risk of dying from breast cancer if later diagnosed.

That’s why NBCF provides free mammograms to women in all 50 states through our network of hospitals. We are now joining hands with people around the world to provide breast cancer education.

HOW NBCF FULFILLS ITS MISSION

NBCF is a stabilizing force in the lives of hundreds of thousands of women who have reached a crossroad in their lives and need a helping hand to get across the bridge. NBCF offers free, innovative programs that other organizations aren’t providing to women facing breast cancer. These programs include:

National Mammography Program
Beyond The Shock
Early Detection Plan
Breast Health Awareness
MyNBCF
BreastCancer.Net

NBCF is one of the most recognized and respected breast cancer charities in the world. Since 2003, NBCF has received the highest 4-star rating by Charity Navigator, America’s premier charity evaluator. Each year, over 80% of our revenue is directed to our life-saving programs, and because of that, NBCF has grown by 20% each year since 2005.

Donate to NBCF

Show your support. Your donation helps provide mammograms for women in need.

HELP NOW

Become a Sponsor

Join a charity that will work with you to create a custom campaign and help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.

HELP NOW

Read the Blog

Read about our latest programs, fundraisers, campaigns and stories from the people we serve.

READ THE BLOG

Political Gangsmen

Posted on: October 1st, 2013 by tommyj

We have often talked about the evils of Gangs and the harm they cause to certain communities. In the latter part of the 19^th Century and into the 20^th Century the Klu Klux Klan was the largest gang in the country. Breeding fear in communities, spreading hate and propaganda, killing someone simply because of their Color or religion, without reason of right or wrong. In the latter part of the 20^th Century and into the 21^st Century, in most urban cities across America, young men and women can be killed or harmed just because of his affiliation to an area. A man or women can be abused, treated with disdain or humiliated just because of their looks or lifestyle. In Southeast San Diego or South Central LA, a young man can be killed just because he wears Red or Blue labeling him Blood or Crip. A person can be murdered without reason. Today marks another day in American history when we say WTF is going on. Well the DC gangs have carried out their orders to vote along party lines because they associate with the Red Gang or Blue Gang. They voted based their agenda and their own myopic view of what America should look like and how it should function, instead of what is truly best for the country. Instead of going on CNN, MSNBC, FOX News, Meet The Press, all radio shows, go behind closed doors and work this mess out.

A Majority of elected Republican congressmen and women have voted to shut down the government, they were elected to serve and govern for, and they are happy and pleased at their actions. In the 40’s and 50s of the past century, this would be called treason and those members would be labeled Communist, then placed on a list or in jail. Where’s McCarthy when you need him. They say it is for the good of the America and the people they serve. The Tea Party candidates stated their mission prior to being elected by stating “Our main goal was to shut down the government”…and they did. So why are we surprised at the outcome of yesterdays Cirque De Congress in the dangerous turf war for the capitol building. They did exactly what they promised. For those who voted for a congressional person, that vote for an official to shut down the government of the United States Of America, your actions can cause more harm than any enemy of America, that wish to do this country harm and render it helpless. You are just as culpable as they are.

Regardless of your party affiliation, what is happening in Washington DC is embarrassing and dangerous. We have allowed our politicians to play games with our lives, and they are winning. For the Republican mother who needs assistance with her child, or the Democratic Veteran that wants his benefits, if you are not getting your just due services, the game that is being played within Washington DC is “It’s Your Life”. It is being played so the politicians can continue their position in government, even it means you lose some of your inalienable rights and much needed services due to you by the constitution of the Unites States of America. Your congressman and senator will be well taken care of, even if they loose their job when it’s all said and done. You, us, we on the other hand must live with a decision made by someone who has no one else best interest in mind than their own and the puppeteer that pulls their strings. Those puppeteers remain behind their sheets and send out their henchmen to carry out their deeds, with the promise of being well rewarded, after they have sold their souls to their cause.

The ignorance in some of our political leaders and the blind faith to “Party” leads me to belief there needs to be a some kind of litmus test or intelligence barometer or even a rational logical deduction of consequence form that anyone running for office should fill out and pass, before they are can be placed on the ballet. Then we as voters can be sure to make a wise decision on whom we chose to represent “us”.

I have voted on several occasions to elect Republican, Democratic and Independent candidates to political office. I also have Not voted for any candidate running for a particular office if I felt that neither one was qualified or would serve the best interest of that office but for their own agenda.

The Image Of Magazine has joined with Meet The Candidates, a San Diego Based organization, to hear the people that are running for public office and what they have to offer. It is also a forum that anyone, of any political affiliation can affordable get to hear these candidate, meet him or her up close and personal and choose wisely. No $5,000 dinner plate. Check out Meet The Candidates San Diego on Facebook for the next date and time to see Councilman Kevin Faulkner, candidate for San Diego Mayor.

Tommy Jennings Publisher – The Image Of Magazine

Chargers, A Team Of Misfits

Posted on: September 24th, 2013 by tommyj

Most people that know me know that I am an avid Dallas Cowboys fan. I am also a fan of football on all levels. I chose to wait and write this piece after all the dust settles and the Monday morning quarterbacks, sports columnist and sports commentators all get their digs in on the Sa n Diego Chargers. Over the past years, I now feel that I have been too harsh of a critic on Phillip Rivers. I have said the Chargers will not win a Super Bowl as long as he was the quarterback. After Sundays game against the Titans, I was driving with my girlfriend talking about the game. I said that the Chargers look like the Bad News Bears, especially after that game of “Hot Potato” at the end. The Chargers blew another game after starting off looking like contenders. My girlfriend reminded me that the Bad News Bears were a group of Misfit kids all thrown together like a pot of gumbo, trying to play baseball as a team. The term misfits hit and stuck with me and turned on the rational light in my head.

The San Diego Chargers seem have a knack for taking a good team or a great player and delivering him to other NFL franchises to live out their greatness and glory. It all started for me when they had a player who went by the simple letter “JJ” John Jefferson. JJ came into the league and delivered some of the most spectacular circus catches I had ever seen in the game of football. He did them game after game, always one better than the other, at critical times during the game. When he tried to renegotiate his contract, the then owner Gene Klein, decided to trade JJ to Green Bay (a place where players were sent out to pasture and oblivion in the 80’s) instead of paying him a salary he would have been worth. San Diego fans were not happy with the trade because they finally had a talented exciting Pro Bowl caliber receiver they haven’t seen since the days of “Bambi”. At that time Don “Air” Coryell was in the midst of redefining the passing game in the NFL and San Diego fans felt that loosing JJ would be the end of an era that never took off. Fortunately the Chargers were able to land Wes Chandler from the New Orleans Saints and the chargers didn’t miss a beat. Air Coryell was born and enters the new era of the forward pass in the NFL.

After a disappointing lost to the Bengals in the championship game in 1981 in the Freezer Bowl, the Chargers began to make a name for themselves in the NFL. That’s where things seem to go bad in San Diego. It seems when a San Diego team begin to show greatness and a player emerges as a standout in the league, the San Diego Franchises (Padres included) seems to dismantle what made them a winner, trade great players and legends to other teams (Dave Winfield to the Yankees) and try to bring in no name athletes, or athletes past their prime and try to FIT them into the mix. It doesn’t work. Hence the term Misfits. It’s like working on a puzzle all day and getting down to a few pieces to make it all complete, then deciding to scramble the pieces and staring over, with new pieces that don’t fit. That is the San Diego motto. San Diego has had great athletes like Drew Breez, Ladanian Tomlinson, Jr. Seau, Rodney Harrison and many others, on great teams during their time. Instead of going out and adding the missing piece to the puzzle, the Chargers front office trade them all away and hope their decision to focus on salaries, will work out. They might as well grab a pair of dice and head to the craps table in Vegas.

Most storied franchises have always seemed to be the ones that have shown loyalty to their fans by keeping their star players and teams together, then bring in pieces that help make the puzzle complete. Doing so keeps the fans loyal because they just bought a $200 jersey with a star players name and number on it and they can wear it for life, instead of watching a game with that players name and number on another team. The owners and GM’s seem to think the game of football revolves around them and their clever choice of trades, draft picks and acquisitions. They do have a hand in building a team but in the long run, it is the coaches and players that make a championship team. It is a combination of good talent, the chemistry of the players that know one another skills and can depend on that teammate to do what they should do. That’s what makes a championship team. That’s what brings fans to the stadium. The Franchises that have had dynasties (Green Bay Packers, Dallas Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers, Pittsburg Steelers, New England Patriots, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, New York Yankees) have all had the same identifiable players and coaches during their era of greatness, with some franchises having more than one era of champions. I could not recognize or name half of the defensive players on the field for the Chargers in Sunday’s Game.

I can no longer place the Chargers lack of championships on Phillip Rivers or any one player. It stems from the top and those that call themselves businessmen that feel they are the reason the league and sports exist. You are not. Just sign the checks and let the fans, coaches and players have their game. Stop building the Bad News Bears and a Band of Misfits over and over again.

Tommy Jennings – TIOM Editor

Tuesday Sept 24, 2013

Congress Salaries/Expenses

Posted on: September 12th, 2013 by tommyj

$40,000 for State Office Furniture? Is Congress actually Working?

What if we could change the way our elected officials served their time in office by voting on their pay scale? It would be interesting to see how efficient our congress could actually be if they were forced to do their jobs, right?

For the 2013 calendar year, Congress has already planned to take 239 days off; this seems to be quite disproportional to the number of vacation days the average American employee is granted which is only 13. That is over half of the year that our elected officials have granted themselves while they have yet to approve one single day required time off for the rest of us.

Americans are not required to obtain a certain number of vacation days by the government, yet other countries such as those in the European Union get four weeks mandatory paid vacation. Apparently Congress has decided that they are worthy of paid time off while we all wake up and go to our places of employment and have to do actual work.

The average pay for a United States Senator, according to Senate.gov, is a staggering $174,000 per year of service. These representatives are elected into office by the people to run this country while they allot themselves over half of the year for time off making nearly $73,000 more than a married couple at the high end of the middle class. — (The Distribution of Household Income and the Middle Class)

On top of their ridiculous salaries, which is provided by the taxpayers, are the health benefits, travel expenses, and other things that we might not have heard of which are provided to Congress. There are funds allocated for things such as a “furniture and furnishing allowance”. Yes, you read that correctly. Congress is allowed $40,000 for state office furniture and or furnishings. — “Each Senator is authorized $40,000 for state office furniture and furnishings for one or more offices, if the aggregate square footage of office space does not exceed 5,000 square feet. The base authorization is increased by $1,000 for each authorized additional incremental increase in office space of 200 square feet.” – (Congressional Salaries and Allowances Report)

Congress gets paid far better than most Americans while doing less than half the work that is expected of them. “We the people” elect these individuals to oversee our government and we expect them to do their jobs, which clearly they are not doing very well. If an American worker wanted to take over half the year off for vacation they would be laughed at and told to get back to work. If Congress decides to do the same thing, not only do they give themselves that time off but WE pay for it. We don’t want to pay taxes for “the takers” in this country and yet some of the worst offenders of “taking” are our elected officials. Congress doesn’t want to provide universal healthcare and yet they have it provided for them on our dime. There are serious matters to be dealt with such as the Sequester and yet instead of formulating some sort of compromise, they went on vacation.

Elected officials need to be held to the same standards as the rest of Americans. Their pay should be based upon results, just like any other job in this great nation. If they choose to do nothing, then they should not be paid for it. Why should we allow them to use our tax dollars to give themselves a vacation especially in a time of crisis when decisions need to be made and policies need to be put into place to solve an issue?

If we don’t do what is expected of us at our place of work, we are reprimanded or fired; this should apply to congress as well. Congress has become lazy and less productive compared to the last 4 decades and according to The Huffington Post, congress is at the lowest approval rating it has had in the last 38 years (10%). We do need a change, and it involves our leaders stepping up and doing what is expected of them.

Contrary to what they may believe about themselves, Congress should not be and exception to the rule. They are not special, but rather elected officials who should be paid based upon performance and allowed the same number of vacation days as the average American. In my opinion, they should also be required to use the same healthcare plan as the rest of America so that they can perhaps gain some perspective. After feeling a smaller version of the pain the rest of average Americans have to suffer, they just might find a way to improve many things that could make the United States a better place. We elected every individual into Congress, so if they aren’t serving the people we can vote them out of office for better candidates.

Posted by Alexander Vancel

Tupac – The Anniversary Party

Posted on: August 16th, 2013 by tommyj

“The 17th Anniversary Celebration Of Tupac Shakur”, presented by AEB Worldwide Networks and Mary Alice Entertainment, is an invite-only event on Friday September 13, 2013 that will celebrate Tupac’s music, words, talent and his impact on the world.

EXPERIENCE THE EVENT LIVE

Just because it is invite only, doesn’t mean you can’t be a part of this historic event. Watch the event live, streamed directly from the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas to your device. Experience the live event from the convenience of your home, office or even watch it on the go.It is less than one month away, Floyd “Money” Mayweather vs. Canelo Alverez, and The Image Of Magazine will be there. TIOM recently aligned with AEB Worldwide to bring you fight week coverage for this highly anticipated mega event. The Image Of Magazine as aligned with AEB Worldwide to showcase events happening around the big fight. AEB Worldwide CEO Eric Brown and their new President Gary Wilkos, expressed that adding a new perspective of magazine coverage along with internet viewing and live streaming from Las Vegas to the world, broadens their reach into new markets. Mr. Wilkos has an extensive background in high volume management and a knack for innovative implementation of talent and resources, which make him an excellent choice to head AEB Worldwide. In a fast-paced business environment and an immediate need for current content, his background in the highly competitive world of the Las Vegas hotels and casinos industry has kept his keen sense for moving business forward efficiently and effectively sharp. Known for their high caliber clientele list and quality show productions AEB Worldwide has teamed up with The Image Of Magazine, to produce a special edition publication to showcase their entertainment brand in print. In speaking with Mr. Brown and new President Gary Wilkos, they foresee AEB Worldwide as a production company, for major sporting events and entertainment with an array of delivery options per content. With a storied past and influential stand in the Las Vegas arena, AEB Worldwide is now poised to expand their reach globally delivering content through all relevant media for their customers and sponsors alike. The Image Of Magazine, based out of San Diego Ca., will bring their unique images and our own personal style of event and story coverage to AEB Worldwide, making the new publication a major factor in the world of content delivery.Our coverage will begin fight week for the Mayweather vs. Canelo fight, covering the surrounding events, fight news and of course, Vegas style parties. We will bring you exclusive images and stories that will be taking place during the week leading up to the big show. For those who have subscribed to TIOM, you will receive updates up until the week of the fight, on events and parties. We will also have information on hotels that will be hosting events produced by AEB. We will keep you posted on shows, celebrities and access to events. The Tupac 17th Anniversary Party will be invite only and/or select guest list. Please be sure to subscribe to get updates and the release of the new publication for AEB Worldwide. Visit www.knockoutlive.com to get more information on the company and events.

PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED CONCERT FOOTAGE

Footage never released to the public will be screened during the exclusive live event. Watch Tupac perform in concert from his acclaimed All Eyez on Me world tour in 1996. Performances include sold out concerts in Cleveland and New Orleans.

NEVER SEEN BEFORE INTERVIEWS

See exclusive interviews with Tupac from the years prior to his murder. Listen to him discuss his music, his life and the entertainment industry.

STREAM TO ANY DEVICE

Stream all the excitement directly to any smart phone, tablet, computer, or smart TV in crisp 1080 HD. Experience the live event from the convenience of your home, office or even watch it on the go.

Tupac is a prophet of our time and a light who was taken tragically from us all too soon. The event feature selected performance footage from the Unseen and Untold Lost Tapes of Tupac Shakur’s last “All Eyez on Me” tour plus music performances from current artist and commentary from top celebrities honoring one of the most inspirational talents of all time. You too can join this historic VIP event via the live global stream.

Get Registered Today for Only $19.95

Streaming Tickets are Only Available for a Limited Time So Don’t Miss Out

Buy Now!

*Disclaimer: Purchases Are Non-Refundable and The Quality of Any Internet Enabled Streaming Experience Largely Depends on Your Media Ready Device and The Internet Connection Required to Have a Quality Experience Optimized and Is The Responsibility of the Purchaser; Data Rates May Apply and Purchasers Are Encouraged to Contact Their Provider For That Information and Any Restrictions To Device.

Mayweather vs Canelo

Posted on: August 15th, 2013 by tommyj

COMMENTARY | With less than a month to go before taking on Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in what could possibly be the richest fight in boxing history, Floyd Mayweather is feeling every bit the conquering hero — especially when it comes to arch-rival and frequent pound-for-pound peer Manny Pacquiao. Talking to MLive reporter David Mayo, Mayweather has apparently shut the door completely on any talks of facing Pacquiao, under any conditions.

Recently, the five-division world champ and current No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter told Yahoo! Sports that it would basically take a Pacquiao move from Top Rank Promotions to Mayweather Promotions to make the long-awaited mega-bout. In other words, for Mayweather to green-light the fight, he would have to receive some measure of business control over Manny. Realistically, none of that had much of a chance of happening. Pacquiao is signed with Top Rank until the end of 2014 and, assuming he still wants to fight after his contract is up, there’s no reason to believe that he’d be the least bit interested in leaving his current promotional team. But now, if Mayweather is to be believed this time, even that slightest hint of a possibility can be forgotten.

“Manny Pacquiao had a chance to make the fight in the past and basically, that’s the best place I’d like to leave it,” Mayweather told Mayo. “Now, I’m feeling like I wouldn’t even give him a chance. … He had a chance, he blew it, so that’s what it is.” Some would argue that Mayweather has every right to feel this way. Back in late-2009, the only time actual negotiations ever took place between the two fighters and their respective teams, it was Pacquiao who eventually killed the deal with his refusal to consider true random pre-fight blood testing. While some blamed Mayweather for introducing the idea of testing in the first place, the real burden of guilt fell on Team Pacquiao for wanting to place conditions and time restrictions on any testing done.

Without bias or prejudice, it could fairly be said that Pacquiao busted up the only real chance the bout ever had of getting made. Since then, various members of Team Pacquiao have gone on record as saying that Pacquiao would now agree to full random testing, but this willingness to agree had never manifested itself when both sides were actually talking. Everything else surrounding the Mayweather-Pacquiao fiasco has been little more than rumor, theory, and propaganda with fans spending over three years discussing a bout that was only within the realm of serious possibility for about three or four months, at best. And, recently, Pacquiao’s fall from grace, helped along by a face-first knockout at the hands of Juan Manuel Marquez last December, has put the Filipino icon firmly in the passenger’s seat when it comes to any possible Mayweather negotiations.

With Manny opting to fight in Asia for the foreseeable future and Mayweather firmly establishing his total dominance over the American boxing scene, it’s logical to assume that the task of negotiating a Mayweather-Pacquiao fight would be much tougher than at any other point. And from the looks of things, Mayweather doesn’t even seem interested in bending an inch to try and make the fight. Meanwhile, Pacquiao continues to issue words of bravado from, literally, the other side of the world. Currently, the only way to imagine both parties resuming the three-years-dead talks is if both wind up victims to crushing defeat. Only then will a sense of humility enter into talks and some honest compromises could be made by both sides. As it stands now, though, Mayweather has the upper hand and has every right to call all the shots. And, yeah, he even has every right to completely dismiss the matchup if he so chooses.

Prepare for the Opportunity SDEIM

Posted on: July 27th, 2013 by tommyj

The Players Touch opening for Public Enemy

When an opportunity presents itself, you have to be in a position to accept it. When someone offers you an opportunity, you have present yourself in a way they deem fit for that particular offer. Your talent is sometimes not enough, your skills within your talent or field gets you a better chance of being chosen. If you have a golden voice as a singer, poetic flow as a rapper, well tuned into your instrument, a beautiful face and body as a model, you are not even half way there to be a success in the industry. Talent is something that you are born with or raised within. Skill is something that you work on within your craft that makes you better than you were the day before. If you’re a performer of any sort, you have to command attention with your stage presence, not just your talent. How you move on stage, how you interact with the audience, how you deliver the performance will show when you have skills along with your talent.

The above artists were selected in a state wide competition to perform at the Long Beach Jazz Festival to showcase their talents in front of a sold out concert.

As an artist, if you are at a industry event, show or anywhere you will by chance meet someone who is looking for talent, what will you have to present, other than your words of how great you are and you are the right person for the gig? That person will be sold on you based on how you present yourself right then and there. But that person will buy into you when you follow up and deliver more than they asked for. BE PREPARED! Business cards, demo packets, professional photos or portfolios, website or Internet presence (outside of social media) are things you should have when you are looking to do business. Not having all the above is OK but you have to have at least a professional way they can contact you or get more information on your talents, other than a phone call or meeting.

The business of the industry is also something every artist should prepare himself or herself for. As an artist, not knowing the law or how things work will generally get you on the bad end of a lot of deals or no deals at all. Finding a good manager/agent can be challenging. Finding a good marketing and promotional team is even harder. But to make these last 2 steps not be the reason you don’t move forward in the industry, YOU should be prepared as an artist, that has honed in on your craft and acquired skills necessary to make you stand out from just another artist with a demo or zed card.

Support the industry that you are a part of. Without support of any kind, shows, events, concerts are nothing more than just a gathering. If you have a show, invite those who are in the industry out to your events and show them some love. Introduce them and let the people know who they are at your show. And most of all, if you are not on a show, go support the person that is. DJ’s are a very integral part in the movement of the music industry. DJ’s are the ones people come to and ask what a particular song was, who was the artist etc., and can you play my song. Most artist do not have the budget to pay Clear Channel to get them into rotation, so the local DJ’s have to be that vehicle to move music to the masses, like it was suppose to be. DJ’s don’t be the “Greedy Greg” person, ask for payolla from an up and coming artist, just to play music that your crowd may want to hear. It is your grind and hustle to make your money but mostly, you are being paid for the gig. Who knows, you may be the DJ that gives that artist his break to be heard by your crowd, who may ask you to play more, or ask for the artist by name. Be that conduit for the industry and you will more than likely get more coming your way than a just few dollars.

On Thursday August 8th, The Soul Suite with Marcus Noel on World Tuned Radio will be hosting the San Diego Entertainment Industry Mixer at the House of Blues 1055 5th St., in downtown San Diego. The event begins at 8:00PM. Be Prepared. Bringing the City of San Diego back into the mainstream.

ISSE 2014

Posted on: July 15th, 2013 by tommyj

The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) Announces the 2014 International Salon & Spa Expo, ISSE, at the Long Beach Convention Center January 25-27. The Image Of Magazine is proud to be apart of this years coverage. We plan to bring you even more uniques raw images and stories from this years show. Last year, the competitions were one of the major attractions to the weekend. Seeing the best in their perspective industry vie for the award as the years best, bring out the newest and latest trends that may become the industry standard. There will be plenty of new releases from the industry leaders in hair care, skin care and cosmetology. If you are a novice or professional in the business, attending the hands on classes and training from the best in the industry is as valuable as for the trainee as it is for moving the industry forward. Please visit www.probeauty.org to get dates, times and events for the weekend. This years convention has grown from last year where over 40,000 attendees fill the halls of the convention center and the streets Long Beach.

From left to right: NAHA entry photos from winners Matt Swinney (Avant Garde), Allen Ruiz (Hairstylist of the Year), Dimitrios Tsioumas (Master Hairstylist of the Year), and Matthew Morris (Men’s Hairstylist of the Year)

THE INTERNATIONAL SALON AND SPA EXPO LONG BEACH CONTINUES TO GROW, ATTRACTS BIG CROWDS IN 2013

POSTED BY PRESS4PBA

Phoenix, AZ (January 31, 2013) – The 2013 International Salon and Spa Expo Long Beach (ISSE Long Beach) continues to be the West Coast’s largest and most influential total beauty event. An energetic crowd of nearly 40,000 beauty professionals from around the world attended the show, produced by the Professional Beauty Association (PBA). PBA’s ISSE concept has evolved beyond the traditional “hair show” in the past years to be the industry’s most complete beauty event relating to hair, nails, cosmetics, esthetics, wellness, massage and advanced education.

ISSE Long Beach always has a diverse exhibitor base, and 2013 was no exception. Known as the launch pad for new beauty products and services, ISSE Long Beach 2013 featured a sold-out expo floor, welcoming more than 400 leading beauty brands. Ranging from international beauty leaders to indie trend-setters, exhibiting brands included Andis Company, ARROJO, BaByLiss, Farouk Systems, Johnny B Hair Care, Macadamia Natural Oil, Moroccanoil, Keratin Complex, OPI, P&G Salon Professional, Repechage, RUSK, Wella, Young Nails and Zotos International. On-site sales and reservations for 2014 exhibit space exceeded expectations as brands appreciated the professional caliber of the show and did not want to miss out on space in 2014.

Always working to improve the attendee experience, PBA streamlined and expedited the check-in process. New and/or improved processes for attendees to check in, including online ticket activation to a PBA members-only check-in line, sped up the entry process and eliminated long lines and wait times. Regular posts on social media platforms also helped guide and direct attendees to the correct check in and credential check locations. These improvements helped get attendees out of the rain on Sunday and onto the show floor promptly and efficiently each day.

ISSE Long Beach also featured more than 100 complimentary educational opportunities as part of the ISSE Long Beach expo ticket. The NAHA Stage, which featured Martin Parsons and many past NAHA winners such as Faatemah Ampey, Steve Elias and Charlie Price, was continually at room capacity. Beauty professionals learned first-hand from these individuals on how to conceptualize and create a winning entry for the North American Hairstyling Awards, the industry’s most elite photographic hairstyling competition.

ISSE Long Beach 2013 Show Highlights
Expansion of EstheticsAmerica & Wellness:
ISSE Long Beach 2013 saw the continued expansion of its increasingly popular EstheticsAmerica & Wellness, which provides a dedicated environment for skin care, cosmetics, massage, wellness,and the latest in treatments and education for these rapidly expanding segments of the beauty industry. CIDESCO Section USA education was again offered in 2013 and continues to be a desirable option for many esthetic professionals looking to continue their education. PBA aims to continue the growth of the pavilion for the 2014 show with even more esthetic brands and classes.

Emphasis on Charity:

In the wake of the numerous national disasters that affected the U.S. in 2012, salon owners stepped up and raised money for their salon brothers and sisters across the country. Two Southern California salons, Studio DNA Salon and Salon Platinum Black in particular, presented checks at ISSE from their fundraising efforts, which raised $2,400 and $1,800 respectively for PBA’s Disaster Relief Fund (DRF).

Great Clips also raised $2,200 selling pins to benefit to one of PBA’s signature programs, CUT IT OUT, which is dedicated to raising awareness and stopping domestic violence across the U.S. As a Premium Sponsor of this program, this money raised adds to Great Clips previous donation of $100,000, which is being used to create a new CUT IT OUT website, provide ongoing outreach, print and maintain collateral materials, and develop additional marketing initiatives aimed at educating beauty professionals on domestic violence.

Beauty education also benefited from generous donations at this year’s show. PBA’s Sally Beauty Scholarship Fund received a $10,000 check presented by Mike Spinozzi, president of Sally Beauty and Jan Roberts, director of corporate communications for Sally Beauty. Sally Beauty continues to be a long-time supporter of industry education and their contributions are greatly appreciated.

Smooth ‘N Shine also funded one full-tuition scholarship up to $25,000 and 10, $1,000 scholarships to cosmetology students. PBA Executive Director, Steve Sleeper and Robert Jones, the grand prize student scholarship recipient, accepted the check which was presented by Sean Gossage, assistant brand manager of Smooth ‘N Shine and Heidi Meinholz, brand manager of Schwarzkopf & Henkel and Smooth ‘N Shine celebrity stylist Larry Sims at this year’s show.”

Hair Competitions Were A Success:
After being well-received at the 2012 show, ISSE Long Beach brought back its hair competitions in 2013. Open to students and licensed professionals, the hair competitions allowed individuals to show off their skills and win cash and career prestige. While honors were given to the top seven in each category, winners included:

Ladies Trend Cut, Color and Style – Pro: Leti Jimenez (first place) | Angel Llewellyn (second place)
Ladies Trend Cut, Color and Style – Student: Martha Diaz (first place) | Terri Holian-Gross (second place) | Patricia Conterars (third place)
Long Hair Bridal – Pro: Tangela Thomas (first place) | Natalya Nardyrona (second place) | John Marcel Lopez (third place)
Long Hair Bridal – Student: Oxana Kim (first place) | Hala Jeon (second place) | Henadzi Harbaruk (third place)
Fantasy – Inspired by Hollywood – Pro: Miki Fujika (first place) | Kanako Ishii (second place) | Angel Llewellyn (third place)
Fantasy – Inspired by Hollywood – Student: Amber Harris (first place) | Gema Ramierez (second place) | Sukari Cobbs (third place)

Nail Competitions Bring Out New and Seasoned Entrants:
The ISSE Long Beach nail competitions, sponsored by NailPro Magazine, featured an array of new and seasoned entrants. Winners were awarded cash and prizes depending on placements. Winners include:

Fantasy Nail Art | Theme: King & Queens | Category: Veteran – Wan Jou Chen (first) | Allison Banry (second) | Sandy Combs (third)
3-D Nail Art | Theme: Game Pieces | Category: Novice – Wan Jou Chen (first) | Ikumi Takeshira (second) | Yuumi Omori (third)
3-D Nail Art | Theme: Game Pieces | Category: Veteran – Amy Becker (first) | Michelle Aab (second) | Chiaki Hitomi (third)
Hand Painted Nail Art | Theme: The Eyes Have It | Category: Novice – Mayu Suehiro (first) | Sato Hashimoto (second) | Amanda Lenher (third)
Hand Painted Nail Art | Theme: The Eyes Have It | Category: Veteran – Robert Nguyen (first) | Vu Nguyen (second) | Amy Becker (third)
Salon Success | Theme: n/a | Category: Novice – Mari Kawasaki (first) | Mayu Shuehiro (second) | Billyne Dowdy (third)
Salon Success | Theme: n/a | Category: Veteran – Mayumi Hase (first) | Gabriella Kovacs (second) | Azumi Kanene (third)
Freestyle Sculptured Nails | Category: Novice – Frederic Edange (first) | Konomi Ouchi (second) | Christian Mans (third)
Freestyle Sculptured Nails | Category: Veteran – Mayumi Hase (first) | Gabriella Kovacs (second) | Azumi Kanene (third)
The Longest Nail | Category: Non-Divisional Winner – Amy Becker: 42” (only one place)
Inspired Artistic Genius | Category: Non-Divisional – Allison Banry (first) | Classic Mully (second) | Amy Becker (third)
Tip & Overlay Team Relay | Category: Non-Divisional – Kyoko Amemiya Team 2 (first) | Mayumi Hase (second) | Eri Fukada (third)
Tip & Overlay Team Relay – Spirit | Category: Non-Divisional Winner – Team EZ Flow (only one place)

NAHA Stage Experiences Capacity Crowds:
The North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) continues to be the industry’s premier photographic hairstyling competition and awards ceremony. The ISSE Long Beach NAHA Stage featured past NAHA winners and multi-category finalists in an intimate setting where attendees learned up close and personal from some of the industry’s biggest stars on how to take a winning NAHA collection from concept through submission. Presenters included Faatemah Ampey, Steve Elias and Charlie Price. Due to overwhelming demand, every NAHA Stage presentation was at or near full capacity.

Awards for Top Booths Spark Competition:
Many companies launched new and/or expanded booths at the 2013 show. From layout and signage updates to complete makeovers, firms invested in their image. Launched in 2011, ISSE Long Beach awards top honors for winners in each category. Booths were judged by industry and non-industry peers on corporate branding, product presentation, exhibit personnel and booth design. Winning booths at ISSE Long Beach 2013 include:

Best Island/Peninsula Booth: Vidal Sassoon (first place) | Neuma (second place) | Vodana (third place)
Best Island Booth: Moroccanoil (first place) | Keratin Complex (second place) | Brazilian Blowout (third place)
Best Linear Booth: G The Body Art (first place) | Vani-T PTY (second place) | Hair Couture (third place)

Revamped Stage Concepts:
Focused on continually evolving to meet the needs of the industry, ISSE Long Beach revamped some of its stage concepts and streamlined offerings to help attendees better access presentations and maximize their time at the show. Center Stage and Stage Right were again popular among attendees and featured top creative teams and educators from across the industry, including Farouk with Julian Macias, Lisa Yamasaki, P&G Salon Professional, RUSK, and Nick Arrojo.

Many of the same features that make ISSE Long Beach a success will also be incorporated into ISSE Midwest, PBA’s newest ISSE concept trade and educational event. ISSE Midwest, which runs November 3-4, 2013 in the Chicago area, serves as the industry’s much needed and requested fall/holiday trade show. Onsite sales for exhibitor space at the upcoming ISSE Midwest 2013 were strong during the Long Beach show.