A Must-Go-To Event: The LPN's Carnaval Night In Rio Event @ The Roosevelt + Ticket Giveaway!!!

Are You In A Networking Funk? Here’s What To Do….

Are you feeling a little left out? Do you want to connect with your community leaders and spread the word about your business? Are you a recent graduate that needs some guidance and some exposure? If you fit into one of the above, chances are you’re not only in a networking rut but are also in need of upgrading your socials networking skills! Whether you just graduated, and you are a new or established professional, the Latino Professional Network is the right association for you. If you think you’re ready to meet some of the most prominent leaders of the Latino community and are ready to kick your networking funk to the curb, then read the following!

Why Is The LPN So Awesome?

So what’s the Latino Professional Network all about? The LPN is not only known for it’s awesome networking events but because it’s “one of the largest associations of Latino professionals and students in the country”(LPN).  What’s also neat about the association is that it consists (currently) of over 12,000 members from not a specific area but from various industries! The LPN directory members come from areas such as as law, medicine, business, education, finance, fine arts, entertainment and engineering (LPN). The LPN is very involved in its community and also supports other causes; The LPN supports several economic groups, community groups, philanthropic groups, educational groups, cultural groups and political groups (LPN).

How Do I Join? Is Membership Affordable?

Unlike other associations, the cost of joining the LPN is free!! That’s right, I said it! There is no cost for membership! All you do to sign up is enter your information and you’re done! Next, be on the lookout for some cool weekly newsletters and reminders about LPN's upcoming events.

Flyer By LPN

Upcoming Event: LPN’s Carnaval A Night In Rio At The Roosevelt!!

LPN’s next event is scheduled for Thursday March 1^st, 2012 from 6:30pm to 1:00 am at the Roosevelt? The guests will not only get a chance to connect with other professionals and leaders but will also enjoy complimentary Caipirinhas and Mojitos (6:30pm-8:30pm), complimentary rum tasting, live Samba Dance Show and Capoeira Display, complimentary appetizers, Cigar rollers, live Bossa Nova Ensemble (6:30pm-8:30pm), live Salsa and Rumbankete, and DJ HEM joined by a live percussionist. What’s not too love!!  

If you are still not convinced, take a closer look at one of LPN's past networking events.

Tickets????

How can I get tickets? Well there are two ways you can do this, go:

1: join the LPN on the website and purchase ticket's online 

or

2: Sign up and enter my awesome giveaway!! Once you enter, you’ll get a chance to win 2 tickets for this spectacular event!!!

So what are you waiting for?? Hurry up and don’t miss out on a wonderful experience!!

Yours truly,

~Itzel Yagual

Disclaimer: In compliance with FTC guidelines, please be aware that this give-away and the event admission for me and a guest, was made possible by the Latina Lifestyle Bloggers Collective (http://www.llbloggers.com), and sponsored by the Latino Professional Network (http://www.lpnonline.com)

Sources:

http://www.lpnonline.com

http://www.lpnonline.com/eWebPages/About-LPN.eWeb

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJzSV04CIaM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vrUObFPx1ig
http://www.lpnonline.com/eWebPages/Become-a-Member.eWeb

Film Review: Across The Line: The Exodus Of Charlie Wright

Across The Line: The Exodus Of Charlie Wright (2010) is a dramatic event that reminds us of the consequences of committing crimes and the repercussions of getting involved with crime bosses. The film's all star cast includes Aidan Quinn, Andy Garcia, Mario Van Peebles, Danny Pino, Jordan Belfi, Claudia Ferri, Luke Goss, Gina Gershon and Bokeem Woodbine. If you are not a drama film enthusiast, watching this film may leave you unsatisfied. On the other hand, those of you that enjoy looking in-briefly-at the lives impacted by a single person or simply are a fan of drama features, this film may be a good fit for you.

Picture By Maya Entertainment

 Across The Line: The Exodus Of Charlie Wright (2010) is a tale about a Los Angeles billionaire and financial genius named Charlie (Aidan Quinn) who goes into self-imposed exile in Tijuana with over a billion dollars shortly after his empire is uncovered by the FBI. Haunted by his past, Charlie quickly learns that not only is he pursed by an FBI agent but also by a crime boss and thugs sent by one of his notorious clients. While in Tijuana, roaming the streets like a lost, marked soul troubled by his failures, he spends long nights searching for a woman he left 25 years ago. At a local bar, he is introduced to Mary (Claudia Ferri) who reveals to him that the woman he speaks of is no longer alive and that she has a daughter. Charlie realizes that this child is his daughter and is determined to locate his daughter.  His quest for his daughter is quickly brought to a halt when, Jorge Garza (Andy Garcia) Tijuana's most viscous crime boss, orders his brother Gabriel (Danny Pino) and his men to kidnap Charlie, to settle his debt. While Charlie is in Gabriel's capture, they are ambushed by a hit man named Damon (Luke Goss) hired by one of Charlie's former clients seeking to retrieve their money. Charlie escapes and connects with Mary who has new information about his daughter's whereabouts. After he learns his daughter is no longer in Tijuana, he contacts the FBI to turn himself in. The quest for his capture continues until the very end while the audience plays a guessing game of who will be the first to capture Charlie.

Aidan Quin stands out as a hopeless Charlie who sees nothing but despair and damage caused by his actions and greed. Aidan proves to be a phenomenal actor in that he is able to display despair, lack of hope and evoke emotion which bring the character to life. Veterans like Andy Garcia, Gena Gershon and Mario Van Peebles add some anomalies to the story. Garza's relationship to his wife and brother appear as endearing as well as very personal. The FBI agent's hunger to capture Charlie fluctuates throughout the film; his actions and observations sometimes felt out of place and were puzzling.

The flow of the film is not as fluid as the film's trailer. The one style of music used throughout the film to transition from one scene to the next was not as smooth as it could've been. The narration in the beginning and the scene of the empty chair by the ocean was detached and detracted from the film.

The film has an interesting take of one man's actions, his road to perdition and the damage he has caused many lives. Though not as entertaining as Catch Me If You Can or Ocean's Eleven who take a more comical and provocative stance to white collar crimes and fraud, the movie does give a realistic account of what happens to people when they commit crimes. If you want to see a drama with a semi realistic outcome check out this film.

Rated R


Maya Entertainment has provided me with a copy of Across the Line: The Exodus Of Charlie Wright for purposes of providing a review. The views expressed here are my own. I received this film at no charge to me and I am under no obligation to return the product but can keep it for my own personal use.

NOTE: SCROLL DOWN TO THE BOTTOM AND ENTER A GREAT MOVIE DVD GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!


Sources:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1663193/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxlc_9GO6LQ

http://maya-entertainment.com/library/across-the-line

Times Are Tough But Are You & Your Artistry Tough Enough? What To Boot And What To Stick With...

Entertainers' Common Struggles  
Whether you are an actor, actress or a musician, harnessing your craft is more than likely your top priority. You work day in and day out in making new contacts, attending events and more than often spend time locating gigs. In addition to this you often look for new ways to revamp your style to attract attention as well as new audiences. The work is strenuous and lately you find that you are giving 80% and not 100%. Even though you are passionate you often wonder whether or not you'll get the lead you so desire. Is this you? If so, fret not. There is hope! I will give you the answers to becoming a better you!
 
Understand That Success Takes A Lot Of Work.. 
No one said getting into the entertainment industry was going to be easy! As a matter of fact, myself in the past and others have said it will be difficult. Yet, no one ever said it's impossible. Stay on course no matter what comes before you.

Itzel's Solution  
The solution to getting your stride back lies is in changing your attitude, mentality and your social circle. Below you will find a list of do's and dont's. These tips will help you not only to develop a stronger and optimistic you but will also motivate you, to continue your journey.

Do...
1. Do Add People That Reflect Who You Are Or 
People You Admire
At mixers or other special events, make a habit of introducing yourself and handing out business cards. A potential employer maybe a greeting away! When online, do not limit yourself by only interacting and following people in your industry. A person outside of your industry may have more contacts than you expected. All in all, never be afraid to reach out and exchange information as well as seeking assistance from people you admire.

2. Do Try Something New/ Be Open Minded 
As an entertainer you must have an open mind which, means don't put all your eggs in one basket. Be open to various gigs-that is if the gigs do not violate your personal beliefs. With that said, if you're not getting leads in print modeling, try looking for gigs in television or film. If you didn't get the part you wanted and you got a different role, put your game face on and show them what you got!! Industry leaders want to see that you can easily adapt not that you are difficult to work with and that you are unable to accept new roles. One opportunity can lead to a better role specially if you play the part right!  

3. Do Remain Optimistic Regardless Of The Dirty & Grittiness
Okay so you got fired from the gig because you were late or for some other issue. Regardless of the reason, stay focused. The show must go on and so must you. If you want this bad enough, you will suck it up, remain strong and never throw in the towel when you have failed. Determination is the key and with the right mentality, you can and will achieve your dreams. Ask the people who support you to jot down 3 things they admire the most about you and remind yourself of these things daily!

4. Do Let Passion Guide You
If you are questioning yourself and your drive is low then it is time for a self-evaluation. Ask yourself why your are down and why you are dragging your feet. Jot down several ideas on how you plan on tackling those issues. Bring in a friend, mentor or someone you confide in to give you ideas. Lastly, decide if your heart is in the right place. Are you sure you are in the right field? Is there another career that interests you? Once you have solved this and know or have re-confirmed your calling, expressing your passion will once again come naturally.

5. Do Let Go Of The Negative Joes  
If Kelly, a.k.a TwiceTheFun (for example) on Twitter is not adding anything meaningful to your timeline, why are you following her? If people on social networks are causing harm to your reputation, are not connecting with you and are throwing "F" bombs 24/7, it may be the right time to unfollow these individuals. Having these folks as friends or interacting with them may deter potential employers from hiring you. The fact that they post funny content is not acceptable justification to have them as a follower. Be more selective and choose people that compliment you, your style or that posses a quality you admire.

Do Not...
1. Don't Settle
Settling is the worst thing you can do in any career. Not only because you are unhappy but because the people around you, will also notice your unhappiness-believe it or not. Never be afraid to vow out if you need to, in a professional means of course. At times you may have to accept/take openings that are not to your liking but this does not mean that you cannot continue to pursue your dream. Small strides go miles specially when you believe and if you are willing to commit.

2. Don't Listen to Haters or Respond To Them
As always, turn the other cheek when verbal garbage is thrown your way. People will always get creative at doing things to hamper your spirit. It is your job, to stick to what you believe, strengthen and protect your passion/self-esteem and ignore the negativity. They simply want to confuse you and make you think you do not have what it takes. The truth is, they despise you because you have the balls to do what you are doing and they don't! Take a look at the article titled How To Deal With Haters.

3. Don't Quit When Things Get A little Difficult Or 
You Question Your Abilities
Okay so you fell, get up! What you waiting for! Make a commitment to never quit! This industry is tough but as long as you're prepared mentally, the better equipped you will be in dealing with the ups and downs. So do whatever you need to do to have the right mentally-yoga, therapy, counseling, coaching etc. I recommend reading 5 Ways to Build Self-Confidence.
 
The Wrap-Up 
Tweaking or revamping, whatever you'd like to call it, is necessary in carving your space in the industry as well as in making you stand out form the crowd. Your new "do," or your ability in embracing a different music genre, and or new style can generate a lot of buzz, and play as a great self-marketing strategy. In addition to this self-confidence and being obstacle-ready are some of the best traits to have upon entering the entertainment industry. But how can you get the "do" that you need succeed? What do you do when you begin questioning your talent or what to give up? When this happens you must evaluate yourself in three areas:
 
1. Where Passion Lies: Fleeting or Thriving?
2. Level Of Drive & Dedication
3. Current Mentality/State Of Mind

Once you understand where your heart is, obtain a positive social circle, know the time and effort involved in your career as well as the obstacles you may face, your journey will be a lot smoother. Although, there are no survival guides, there is plenty of articles and information online such as How To Survive The Entertainment Jungle that will keep you inspired and motivated. During the ups and downs remind yourself that you are doing this to live your dream. Doing so will encourage you to stay the course.

As always best of luck! Contact me if you need professional guidance!

Itzel Yagual
itzelyagual@me.com 
 
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3452427/feed-your-entertainment?claim=8m7w2jxc4ed">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>

Sources:

http://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/human-nature/perception/5-ways-to-build-self-confidence.htm

http://thesalesblog.com/2012/01/how-to-deal-with-haters/

http://www.goldenwisdomnuggets.org/how-to-survive-in-the-entertainment-jungle/