Congratulations to our Rachel Braver of GLAD!

Council District 14 resident/businesswoman received honor at Women in Business Awards luncheon- Oct. 2nd


GLAD’s Director of Public Relations received the prestigious Outstanding Non-Profit Employee Award



Los Angeles, October 9, 2009: Rachel Braver, Director of Public Relations for the Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. more commonly known as GLAD, received the prestigious Outstanding Non Profit Employee Award appointed by the California State Legislator last week at the Women in Business Awards luncheon. State Senator Carol Liu (D-La Cañada Flintridge), Assemblymember Paul Krekorian (D-Burbank) and Assemblymember Anthony Portantino (D-La Cañada Flintridge) honored Braver and 24 other exceptional businesswomen at the 10th Annual Women in Business Legislative Update and Awards Luncheon on Oct. 2, 2009, at the Pasadena Hilton.




Braver is committed to ensuring equal access of the deaf and hard of hearing community to the same opportunities afforded their hearing counterparts. With purpose directed around the social, recreational, cultural, educational, and vocational well-being of GLAD’s deaf and hard of hearing consumers, Braver handles public affairs, donor relations, promotions and marketing for this social service agency. (www.gladinc.org) She oversees the implementation of booths, exhibits, community events and fundraisers; provides sensitivity trainings, produces agency-wide printed materials with a universal positive image and serves as a community liaison with community leaders, corporate sponsors, organizations and media representatives. Her bold efforts continue to bridge the gap between deaf and hearing worlds.



A certified sign language interpreter by the National Association of the Deaf (NAD IV), her professional/personal affiliations include: Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), Southern California chapter (SCRID), Perinatal Foundation for the Deaf (www.perinatalfoundationdeaf.org), and Sign World TV (www.signworldtv.com). She is actively involved in the Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce, Jewish Big Brother/Big Sisters program and Center for the Arts Eagle Rock. Braver and childhood friend are developing an affirmation t-shirt line for women who desire to inspire (www.thebeewear.com). Braver enjoys singing duets with dad, shopping for greeting cards with mom, participating in walk-a-thons for various causes close to her heart, traveling the world and salsa dancing the night away.



Each year, the Women in Business Awards recognize businesswomen who have contributed to the economic growth and well-being of Southern California. These women exemplify the broad range of accomplishments that women have achieved in our communities. Braver extends warm thanks to Renee Dominique (Center for the Arts), Jim Omahen (Councilmember Jose Huizar’s District Office), Linda Allen (ERCPR), Denise Miller (Glendale Adventist Medical Center) and Mark Martinez (Diversity Graphics) for nominating her for this honor.



The Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (www.gladinc.org) has been improving the lives of the deaf and hard of hearing since its establishment as a volunteer organization in 1969. Founded on the philosophy…”of, by, for and with the deaf and hard of hearing”, GLAD’s Deaf Community Center encompasses a wide array of specialized health and human service programs for the deaf and hard of hearing community.


Photo credit- Richshell Allen (Braver w/ parents, ILY photo and Rachel B.)

A peaceful Sunday

Well it's Sunday. Had a pretty good weekend. Started Friday nite.

Friday evening we had the honoring of having Heidi Galli, Shelia, Karla, Danny and his wife over for dinner here in Eagle Rock. These friends go way back. I met them in 1976 before summer as I was still in High School when I first started going to the Sugar Shack (a teenage night club in North Hollywood, CA). You had to be fewer than 21 to get in, but of course there were those perverts that looked younger than they were. I didn’t realize this until I was much older. Older pervs, Guys who preyed on young meat and flesh. I think I was a bit odd for them, as they never bothered me. I think at that time they were chicken hawken’ for young blonde boys with blue eyes. I remember my friend John Besselo (I think that is how you spell his name) telling me as were painting a backdrop for a high school play in the auditorium…. “My mother tells me older men want to @uck me cause I am blonde and blue eyed and they like that.” I had a crush on him but didn’t tell him I did, I just smiled and told him he wasn’t pretty enough and they wanted pretty things no a challenge!

The weekends couldn’t come fast enough. We spent most of the week preparing our attitude for fun at the Shack. Sometimes we would go on a Wednesday as it was the third most popular day to go (Friday and Saturday of course being the first and second). If I didn’t get a ride from a friend, I would hitch hike which at that time mostly safe (except if you had blonde hair and blue eyes). The hard part was getting back home. At 2:00 in the morning your rides (if not your friends) were most likely going to be an old horny man or wasted hippies. I preferred the hippies… at least I knew I didn’t have to have sex with them!~

There were several clicks at the Shack. The Valley kids (mostly from rich families and simi adventurous), the Beverly Hills kids (rich, bored and had lots of connections for drugs), and then the Beach kids (really bored, hated their parents and found the rest of us entertaining). I danced on American Bandstand and the Real Don Steele Show from 1973 – 1977 so most of the crowd I had encountered there. The first time I saw (I say saw as I didn’t actually meet him until later) Chuckee Starr was at a taping of the Real Don Steele Show. I think the New York Dolls were taping their appearance when down the alley that was next to the Studio on the KHJ-lots, comes this he/she of a person with at least 6” platforms, blue jeans cut into hot pants with fridge hanging from them, tube top and a banner wrapped around him like a beauty queen winner that stated “SWEET”. Needless to say I thought I saw it all then!

Later at a tapping of American Bandstand I was introduced to the word BI…. “Buy? What am I supposed to buy?” That was my response to question a pretty young guy asked me between tapings “Are you BI?” I had no idea what the hell that meant until he then explains the meaning. I then was more confused as I always thought you either like boys or girls not both! I sense have learned to accept all.

Back to the Shack and our little reunion with some friends. It was a nice to see old friends. Catching up is always great for conversation. What we have done, what we should have done, talking about all the crazy things we did… then looking each other and wondering why we are still alive!

OK, well more later, my life has many roads. I decided to let you in on some of them, so enjoy.

It's been a long time but I am back!

I have been working pretty hard the last several months to try and get my Diversity company up and running. Also been working on helping my better half’s projects by updating and trying to keep up with all that needs to be done.

They way the economy has been, I am blessed that the few clients I have been able to keep my head above the water. I am 51 years old and well, at this stage of the game I am hoping all those years of doing what I do will pay off and I won’t have to get a job a K-Mart or Taco Bell when I am 60!

I am writing to basically get my steam off today. I find in strange in a time when people are trying to get work and trying to find jobs that there are some that seem to take advantage of the fact that they have a roof over their head and that times have been good for them (for the most part) but yet they are complaining about the lack of money coming in but when you give them work they slack off or just do care. There I got that off my chest.

I wish all my friends and family that are going through tuff times right now the best and hope that things pick up. Ronn and I are truly blessed to have great friends and great family. We do what we can to help and if other do the same, we all can get through this.

Facebook has kept me pretty busy with catching up with old friends. It (for the most part) has been a great journey. I have truly enjoyed reconnecting with most and connecting with new. Boy it’s scary to see how some of us look after not seeing each other for over 30 years! When I wake up I feel 17… when I look in the mirror I look 45, when I lay down to go to bed I feel 100! : )~ I guess my life after high school was pretty much an adventure. I haven’t talk to most of my childhood friends for those 30 plus more years of not seeing them. So catching up on one’s life is great reading and conversation. All those crazy times I had in the late 70’s and early 80’s. I often stop and take a deep breath and thank the powers that be that I am still on this earth. So many of things I did or situations I was in… It’s a wonder that I am still standing. I guess I was supposed to so I could blog/write about it.

Going to be working at the GLAD annual "Taste of Eagle Rock" this Saturday, August 22nd at GLAD. The Great Los Angeles Agency on Deafness is a wonderful non profit that is helping our Deaf and Hard of Hearing community members. Rachel Braver once again is doing a fantastic job (as well as hard working) preparing for this event. both Ronn Savala and I are very proud of our little Braver!

So that leads me into what all that stuff above I am yapping about. I will use this blog more often to express myself and to tell a story or two. If your listening enjoy.

mandog

CELEBRATE!

The fabulous RACHEL BRAVER, hats off the our Ms. Braver for another outstanding job at the 6th Annual GLAD brunch at the House of Blues.

Well I must tip my hat off to our good friend Rachel Braver. Once again she out did herself. Her hard work for the last several months paid off... an OUTSTANDING morning of CELEBRATION for GLAD and their supporters at the 6th Annual GLAD Brunch a the House of Blues.



Rachel Braver, Director of Public Relations (GLAD), Marlee Matlin, Shattering the Glass Walls Award Recipient, Lupe Ontiveros, Activist/Actress, Fabian Sanchez, Dancing with the Stars, Jamie Lee Curtis, Special Guest Presenter

Stereotype-defying Marlee Matlin honored at GLAD Benefit

The Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD) hosted a rousing 6th Annual GLAD Brunch Benefit at the world-famous House of Blues Sunset Strip on Sunday, May 18 from 9 a.m. to noon. C.J. Jones, comedian/actor, entertained as Master of Ceremonies and actress/author Jamie Lee Curtis presented the award to friend, Marlee Matlin, Academy Award™ winning actress, author and most recently seen on “Dancing with the Stars”.



Our Miss Braver, Sara Braver, Jamie Lee & Morty!

“Shattering the Glass Walls” award was presented for the first time at the House of Blues benefit to Matlin from GLAD for being one of the most recognizable and successful role models in defying convention. Attendees enjoyed House of Blues Sunset Strip’s world famous Gospel Brunch, a menu composed of a Southern-style buffet and specialties and a spirited live show. Real Time Captioning was projected onto a screen and theater-trained interpreters accompanied the live show.



Jamie Lee on Ronn Savala's attire... "Honey is it really this years fashion?"

The proceeds benefit the ongoing activities and diverse programs at GLAD. The mission of the Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD) is to ensure equal access of the deaf and hard of hearing community to the same opportunities afforded their hearing counterparts. The organization's general purposes and powers are directed around the promotion of the social, recreational, cultural, educational, and vocational well-being of its deaf and hard of hearing constituents.



Ronn Savala & Jamie Lee

GLAD's specific and primary purpose is to act as a coordinating agency that addresses the broad social service needs of deaf and hard of hearing people through direct service provision, advocacy, research and dissemination of information regarding deafness to parents, professionals and consumers. GLAD offers broad and comprehensive services such as Community Education, Communication Access, Counseling, Advocacy, Information and Referral, Job Accessibility, Independent Living Skills, Parent Education, Teen Pregnancy Prevention, Clinic Sensitivity Training, HIV/AIDS Prevention and Sign Language Interpreting Referral Services.



Pilar & Gabriel Buelna GLADly supported GLAD

GLAD has been improving the lives of the deaf and hard of hearing since its creation as a volunteer organization in 1969. GLAD is committed to the philosophy “…of, by, for and with the deaf and hard of hearing.”



Marlee & Me!!! Mark A. Martinez

Various corporations and organizations that have shown support and interest in the deaf and hard of hearing community were brought together by this inimitable benefit. The Title Sponsor for this event was Sorenson Communications, the nation’s leading provider of video relay services (VRS) and equipment for the deaf community (www.sorensonvrs.com). Additional sponsors of the benefit included Sprint Relay, Robert Gore Rifkind Foundation, Showtime Networks, Inc., City National Bank, Nordstrom, Hands On Video Relay Services, Pioneer, KNBC, Councilmember Jose Huizar CD 14, Kiwanis Club of Eagle Rock, The Walt Disney Company and others.



Carlos "DirtyVegas" & friend

250 leaders and friends of the community attended this sold out unique benefit. Donations can be made in support of GLAD by visiting www.gladinc.org.



Ronn Savala & super dancer Fabian Sanchez

For more information about GLAD, visit www.gladinc.org, call 323-478-8000 or e-mail info@gladinc.org



It's me and Jamie Lee!

ISN'T THIS A FUN FILLED PROCESS!

Are we going to have another Republication President?

It’s getting really scary out there.

I have heard many comments the last few weeks from fellow Democrats expressing their unhappiness with our party.

It’s heartbreaking to know that history that was to be made might not be made. Hilliary or Obama. Who would have known that for the first time in history a Woman or a African American Man would be running at the same time for the President of the United States of America. Sure there have been women and blacks (or a black woman) who have thrown their hats into the ring before… but never has it been a race that could be won by either.

I have heard many whisper if their candidate does not get the nomination that they will switch parties or not vote. Well not voting is wrong so switching parties might be the answer here. Being registered all my life as a Democrat, I might take a walk on the wild side and re-register with the Green Party. I am so unhappy with how the two Democrat candidates have divided us. It’s become a racial and popularity contest. It’s no longer about your qualifications ones achievements, but rather making choices to songs that once graced our hearts during the summer of love. “Say it Loud! I’m Black and I’m Proud” or “You come a long way baby!”

If we intelligently look at what’s in front of us, on our plates and accepted the good things that were put there, the choice would be easy. But it’s like someone watching all the hype on TV about some new product that is doing to dramatically change their image or give them a feel good feeling, that we push our veggies aside and go for that feel good pill as the all mighty answer to all our problems, knowing deep down that the veggies are a smarter choice. That’s how I feel about this election. We have TWO great candidates and ONE who is qualified and has experience and ONE that give us hopes. I think hoping is nice. I think smart choices are best. One step at a time. Patience. Time will tell.

I see young people who are so ready to make a change but these same young people don’t even know their history and how the political machine runs in Washington. There is not going to be some magic wand that showers us with change and it happens just like that. This change must come from unity and people changing themselves, stopping their addiction to gas hungry SUV’s, having to have the biggest house, having to play the loudest music, having to be so much better. Most of these people couldn’t tell you 1% of how Washington works. I being one. But I certainly am aware of how change happens. It starts with YOU. So for all of you who think this change comes with not price and it’s going to be all fine and dandy, you better wake up and start looking at the real issues here. We are in a takeover in a country that is getting more money than our children get for school. We are in a important time in history that we need to stop depending on foreign oil and business. We are in a important time of loosing our children to guns at school. All these things are important. The only change is going to start with YOU. It’s those questions your candidate needs to be aware of. How are we going to change the American attitude? How are we going to change our society so our children can go to school and not worry about some kid pulling out a gun and killing them?

Don’t be fooled, be a smart voter. KNOW what your candidates stand for and what they CAN change.

OK Kiddies... Now for a look at the Torres familia on VACATION in the motherland MEXICO!



Hmmm looks like their having fun!!!!



This doesn't look like fun!!! I would have a heart attack! You go Ruthie.



I certainly hope they didn't eat these afterwards.



The little one looks tired, isn't she cute. The Torres are expecting another addition to their family soon. If you haven't visited their store please do soon. They always have a great selection of furniture and great prices! BUENA VISTA FURNITURE.

JIMBO'S BACK!!!!!

Lord willin' n the creeks don't rise (i.e., if it isn't raining) He'll be back at the Far Bar this Thursday and Friday playing some good ole country, blues and roots rock. Will start about 6 on Thursday, and 5 on Friday, so come on by after work and enjoy some fun music and great drinks in alley....downtown LA's coolist patio bar. Located in the Far Bar restaurant, 347 E. 1st Street, Little Tokyo. You can enter thru the restaurant, or from the alley next door.

This guy can play the blues with the rest of them. Good music and drinks!!! Don't miss Mr. Jimbo and if you stop by and see him... well certainly buy the guy a drink!

JOCEE's 70th birthday.... Via La Cita!


Cita y Ricardo... mi familia!!!


I want to thank Ricardo and Cita for making my mother Josie's 70th birthday a memorial one. You know, my mother is a great person. She raised 5 children by herself. Never was on welfare... always working hard to keep clothes and food in the house. She has always accepted my crazy self. My love of music comes from her. I can remember her and her friends dancing to the Stones, and signing such great songs such as "Stoned" by Dylan. Will write more about Josie in future blogs.



Josie getting ready to blow out the candles.

Don't forget to visit Ronn's Website

I've been using some of the Repechage products and I must tell you... they are really good. Check that part of his site out and see all the great products they have especially the ones for the summer months. There will also be some new products on the Keune line up in about a month. Ronn Savala... he's your man ladies!

THE CHANGE....

WE ARE GOING TO MAKE HISTORY... And someone tells us there's gonna be a change.



WE ARE GOING TO MAKE HISTORY... And someone tells us I will lead and make changes through experience



These two candidates have similar views. One has experience, many years of experience, the other keeps on crying change.

I am a gay LATINO man. I have seen many changes in my lifetime. There are many things that were changed and will continue to be changed. But in order to change things you have to have people who can work together to make that change. I am not putting down Mr. Obama’s hard effort to make changes, but I am also realistic. I have not heard in his platform of CHANGE that is going to represent me. A Gay Latino and have worked really hard to see change. False promises’ is what gets people in trouble. False hope is greed. If elected Mr. Obama will walk into the same old, same old. The everyday bull @$@# of politics. Nothing is guaranteed. No matter what color or sex you are, you still have to sit down and WORK with people in order to make the CHANGE. Yes he has the Bill Clinton qualities... he can make you listen with his great preaching, but when all is said and done, it doesn't mean a thing when your wheeling and dealing with Washington.
So this change means nothing to me, but it seems to have hypnotized the nation. Is that all I have to do to get ahead? Walk around yelling CHANGE then hoping everyone changes with me? And what gets me most is this chanting of CHANGE in a slogan that our fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, grandfathers, grandmothers have been yelling for years SI SE PUEDE!!!!! But for some reason it has to be done in English to make it acceptable. So I am not sold on this CHANGE thing. Change will come with experience and hard work. She (the other candidate) possess these qualities. I am tired of them putting her down as the same old same old. We’ll anyone who votes realizes that special interest groups are always involved in who gets elected. So the CHANGE candidate needs to put his hand to his mouth when accusing HER as one of special interest influence… he should look in the mirror and realize that he is where he is cause of these special interest groups.

Lastly, what are the views on Gay & Lesbian issues with both candidates? Why in this wonderful moment of history are we taking a back seat? We still are the ones who are fighting hard for our equality in this FREE nation. So why are we being silent? What about abortion? Why are these two important issues no longer issues? Have we come that far ahead in society that we no longer have to worry about getting gay bashed because of our sexual orientation? Is it now a thing of the past for a young woman who was raped to be able to walk into a clinic and seek help without harassed or jailed for something that is HER choice?

So what is the CHANGE? Let me know. Leave your comments.

SUPER BOWL/SUPER TUESDAY

The most important week in history…. Or at least in my lifetime.
Today is Super Bowl Sunday 2008, New England who is undefeated against a hungry New York Giants team. History will be made regardless who wins… either the Patriots with their undefeated record or the Giants with Eli Manning who if they win, would join is brother Payton in wearing the Super Bowl ring come Monday.


This Tuesday is Super Tuesday in the political world. We have a chance once again to make history this November. We are either going to elect the first African-American MAN into office or we are going to really make history by electing our countries FIRST WOMAN (black or white) Commander in Chief. Needless the say by the picture… I am giving my support the Ms. Clinton. I believe she possesses the experience this country needs and is a true leader in making change. Not everything will make everyone happy regardless who you support. But I think the real change will come by finally putting to rest that women are less qualified to run this country. Many other countries have had GREAT woman lead them. It’s time American’s move forward and truly put her support behind one. After all isn’t one waving a torch and greeting the world as millions visit our country? If she’s good enough to greet them, she’s damn good enough to lead them!


Ms. Braver & the Fabulous Eleanor Duffy!

Last Saturday was the annual Eagle Rock Installation Dinner which several community people were honored including our good friend Eleanor Duffy. We had the honor of being asked to join the Duffy family by Eleanor’s daughter Mary. It was a nice evening to spend with old and new friends. Rachel Braver from GLAD (Great Los Angeles Agency on Deafness) provided these pictures…. I must say doesn’t she look fabulous! A hot catch for a lucky man. Some of the guest included Sr. Nick Pacheco (I love this guy, a good friend and has done many things for the ER community), Ruby De Vera and her beautiful daughter, Tom Topping (Mr. ER news reporter), Joanne Turner (who looked fabulous), Mr. Vic from Colombos (who catered the event) , Yolie Flores-Aguilar (our district 5 LAUSD board member), many of Eleanor’s family including her daughter’s Maureen & Mary, and many many more. Altogether it was a fun nite and a lot of catching up as we haven’t stepped out for a community event in a long time. Thanks once again to Rachel B. for her wonderful pictures.



Mr. Topping & the Lady in Red "Denise Miller"


Ms. Mary and Mr. Savala


Ms. Braver & Mr. Colombos himself Victor Parrino


Eleanors beautiful daughter Maureen & her husband You don't want to get into trouble with these two, one's a Judge and one's a Lawyer! : )~


This man can fix your back! Dr. Shapiro


Rachael Braver and yours truly

NOW FOR THE PLUGS!


These brothers can make you a nice shirt!
Check out Rolando & David Alvarado's t-shirt and banner business. There prices are great and they do quality work.
Call them at 800.839.6978 or visit their website at: ramcowest.com

JENNY LENS, "Punk Pioneers"



You can pre-order your copy now! You get a discount on a book that is filled with amazing photos and really interesting facts about an era of music that had a social and creative impact on the sound and sites of rock n roll!!! You can pre-order it from Amazon.com this book is going to be hot!

PLEASE CHECK OUT GABRIEL BUELNA'S NEW VETURE


This is a way for Non Profits to network, if you are looking for employment, seeking a consultant amongst a few the things you will find at this website. So if your a non profit or you know of one please visit their website thenonprofitnetwork.org.

GET READY FOR VALENTINE'S DAY



Well Valentine's Day is just around the corner so make sure you call Ronn Savala and make your appointments early. Also please call him if any of you girls want to book a Spa day which is only available this month on the 9th or 10th. It's a fun thing to do as you and your friends get to relax and enjoy your spa day the way you want it. Call Ronn at 626.281.4133 and get it going!