Hey, kids, welcome to the Phile for a Monday. How are you doing? So, while the world was watching the royal wedding, the New York Times published an astonishing report about one of America's princes, one Donald Trump Jr. We already knew that Don Jr. hosted a meeting in Trump Tower to get dirt on Hillary Clinton from a lawyer connected to the Russian government, but His Royal Highness isn't just a Russophile... he was willing to compromise the sovereignty of the American election with everyone! According to the Times, on August 3rd, 2016... three months before the election... Don Jr. hosted a confab with "an Israeli specialist in social media manipulation," an "an emissary for two wealthy Arab princes," and "a Republican donor with a controversial past in the Middle East as a private security contractor." Talk about the most ambitious crossover event in history! Here's what they offered America's Large Adult First Son, "The emissary, George Nader, told Donald Trump Jr. that the princes who led Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates were eager to help his father win election as president. The social media specialist, Joel Zamel, extolled his company’s ability to give an edge to a political campaign; by that time, the firm had already drawn up a multimillion-dollar proposal for a social media manipulation effort to help elect Mr. Trump. The company, which employed several Israeli former intelligence officers, specialized in collecting information and shaping opinion through social media. It is unclear whether such a proposal was executed, and the details of who commissioned it remain in dispute. But Donald Trump Jr. responded approvingly, according to a person with knowledge of the meeting, and after those initial offers of help, Mr. Nader was quickly embraced as a close ally by Trump campaign advisers... meeting frequently with Jared Kushner, Mr. Trump’s son-in-law, and Michael T. Flynn, who became the president’s first national security adviser. At the time, Mr. Nader was also promoting a secret plan to use private contractors to destabilize Iran, the regional nemesis of Saudi Arabia and the Emirates." "It is illegal for foreign governments or individuals to be involved in American elections, and it is unclear what... if any... direct assistance Saudi Arabia and the Emirates may have provided," the Times notes. "But two people familiar with the meetings said that Trump campaign officials did not appear bothered by the idea of cooperation with foreigners." Soliciting foreign election assistance is very illegal, but Papa President doesn't seem at all concerned by this revelation.
When you get away with a crime, it's important not to get cocky about it. A woman in Moses Lake, Washington met the cops last week when she was a passenger in a car that got pulled over for driving on a suspended license. The 19-year-old Kayla Irizzary left the scene because there was no legal basis to keep her there, but she then bragged on the cops' Facebook about "getting away." But as the Moses Lake Police Department sayeth on Facebook, "What social media giveth, social media taketh away." After obtaining a search warrant, the cops discovered in the vehicle that she rode in "a purse that contained her identification and a pistol, which Irizzary is not eligible to possess as she is a prolific felon." So at 2:30 a,m. on Saturday, the tricky coppers "set up a meeting with Irizzary, ironically enough using social media." When she realized it was a set up, Irizzary made a run for it, but was "caught in about four steps" and "booked into the Grant County Jail on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of heroin." Send not to know for whom the bell trolls. It trolls for thee.
The principal of Cherry Hill High School in New Jersey has apologized for prom tickets that have offended some students and parents. Dr. Dennis Perry issued this apology after the school caught flack for writing "party like it's 1776" on their prom tickets. The event was to be held at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Of course, millions of African Americans were enslaved in America in 1776, and that sounds like the worst party... ever. In his apology letter, Dr. Perry says that "it was insensitive and irresponsible not to appreciate that not all communities can celebrate was life was like in 1776." According to The Courior Post, black students make up 6.2 per cent of the student body, 22.4 per cent are Asians and 5.6 per cent are Hispanic. The majority... 62.2 per cent... are white. Lloyd Henderson, president of the Camden County NAACP East chapter, called the tickets "another example that the culture at Cherry Hill East is one where the African American students’ needs are not considered along with the rest of the school." But he did accept Perry's apology. "I do take some solace in the fact that Mr. Perry immediately recognized and acknowledged the insensitivity of the comment," added Henderson. Danny Elmore, a vice president for the Cherry Hill African American Civic Association, echoed the sentiment by saying, "I believe that Perry handled the situation well." However, not everyone is on board with Perry's apology. As a matter of fact, many thought that the principal should not have apologized at all. Students who attend prom are promised a "commemorative" ticket with a new design that omits the offending language.
The friendship and mutual trolling between Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman is very pure. They frequently fight over the strengths of Wolverine and Deadpool (and which one is superior), and Reynolds trolls Jackman's anniversary posts with the teasing familiarity of a BFF. It's very clear they are chummy men. So, when Reynolds posted a photo with Jackman at a coffeeshop it felt like business as usual. They both look very happy to be with their buddy.
People, however, were a bit distracted by the guy photobombing in the background. This kid knows what he's doing. For those curious, the coffeeshop they're being photobombed at is Jackman's Laughing Man Coffee in NYC. So, if you're seeking out a chance to photobomb the two, this spot would provide a statistically higher chance than other spots.
Everyone on Earth is talking about Meghan Markle (and probably everyone on Jupiter and Neptune, too). Before she was the Duchess of Sussex (say that ten times fast), Her Royal Highness was a relatively unknown actress with a PR machine smaller than the Palace. Kathryn Whittaker, who works in brand partnerships at Twitter, offered to hook the site up with an interview, but the Twitter Head of TV and Film Talent didn't know who she was. People find this throwback hilarious knowing just how famous Markle is now. Lara Cohen, the Twitter exec who turned her down, has no regrets, but maybe a little sarcasm.
Shoulda wouda coulda.
So, instead of wasting time doing this blogging thing maybe I should be listening to this record...
Ummm... maye not. I wouldn't understand what they were singing anyway. You know, some people are just assholes in the world...
Do you have bad luck? If so I hope this never happens to you at least...
If I had a TARDIS I think it'll be fun to go to Sweden in the 70s, but knowing my luck I'll run into this group...
What's so special about that group of people you ask? That's a young Osama Bin Laden with his family. Bin Laden is second from the right in a green shirt and blue pants. Ugh. You heard about the Avengers, right? Well, have you heard of the Revengers? Here's one of their action figures in case you haven't...
I like Token Girl. Hey, have you seen the movie poster for the new Tom Hardy movie?
Not sure what to think of it. Okay, some people at Walmart wear the rudest clothes...
What an ass. With the royal wedding there were some odd souvenirs, like the Crown Jewels royal condoms.
For when you don't want to produce an heir. So, you know about that Yanny and Laurel thing, right? Well, when I saw this I got really confused...
So, when I saw this...
It reminded me of something, and then it hit me...
Hahaha. Man, those Royals sure wear stupid hats, don't they?
Hahaha. That's so stupid. That's as stupid as...
Ha. Hey, wanna play a game?
So, what is it? A potato or Amy Schumer?
If you spot the Mindphuck let me know. Hahahahaha. That's the best one in a long time. Hey, now for a brand new pheature simply titled...
Now from the home office in Port Jefferson, New York, here is...
Top Phive Other Things Overheard At The Royal Wedding
5. Don't worry, love. If it fucks up you can totally get married again, trust me.
4. Any wedding can be royal if both your vows are “yas kween.”
3. Not 100% sold on this "The Crown" / "Suits" crossover.
2. Mock our hats this time, bitches.
And the number one other thing overheard at the Royal wedding was...
1. I think it’s great the Queen is trying to modernize the Royal family by coming to the royal wedding dressed as a Minion.
Ha! I get that one.
Trumpism
Foreigners living and working in America = BAD! Foreigners working to help him win the election = GOOD!
Little Johnny traveled North to visit his friend during winter time. His friend's mother saw Johnny shivering, so she said, "Come here and put your hands between my thighs to warm them up." Johnny said, "My ears are cold too."
Today's guest is a Phile Alum whose put together Seasons: Work of Hearts Magazine Seasons (Volume 1), the 80th book to be pheatured in the Phile's Book Club. Please welcome back to the Phile... Shelly Ambrose.
Me: Hey, Shelly, welcome back to the Phile. How are you doing?
Shelly: Hi, Jason! I am doing well. I’m energized and seizing this creative season of my life.
Me: Your book, Work of Hearts Magazine Seasons (Volume 1) is the 80th book to be pheatured on the Phile. but would you say it's a magazine or book?
Shelly: Wow the 80th!! That is exciting. Work of Hearts Magazine is a "magazine." It is published as a book; however, the setup is like a magazine. The publication spotlights artists, poets, short story writers, photographers, and those who shine a positive light in their community.
Me: So, how many volumes are there gonna be?
Shelly: The plan right now is for Work of Hearts Magazine to be a yearly publication. The long-term goal of the team is to turn it into a quarterly publication.
Me: I have to thank you for letting me take part in it by interviewing Stephanie Bowman about One Heart for Women and Children. When did you first meet and get to know Stephanie?
Shelly: I am happy that you were a part of this project! Your interview was the main feature in the magazine. The Heartbeats section is the heart of the magazine as we hope to create a creative and encouraging community. I have known Stephanie for around 17 years. She used to be a parent volunteer at a school that I taught for in the past. She led some of our best fundraising events and helped wherever she could to create wonderful school activities. Once she opened One Heart, I was able to connect my students and families in need to her organization. She has been a blessing to so many people, including myself. I wanted to give back to Stephanie as she has given unconditional love and help to so many. Her story inspired me, and her heart needed to be spotlighted because she is a much-needed source of hope in Central Florida. One Heart will be receiving a percentage of the magazines sold for April and May.
Me: You asked a lot of people to take part for this book... did anybody say no, they didn't want to be involved?
Shelly: I was very picky with the group of people I involved in this project. I invited people who are good at what they do but who I could also learn from. I included people who live with intention and allow their hearts to be seen through their writing or art. Thankfully, no one turned down the opportunity to be a part of this creative group. Unfortunately, I had to turn down some submissions.
Me: You are the editor, publisher, created, and so-called guardian on this project, did you write anything for it?
Shelly: I am not alone in all those titles. My co-editors were Arielle Haughee and Fern Goodman. I also had design help from Walt Bartlick, Valerie Willis, and Simeen Erami. Without their expertise, the magazine may still be in my message box saying, “Errors that need to be fixed.” In addition to their submissions to the magazine, they helped me complete the magazine. I did write a few things. I wanted it to be less about me and more about community; however, I had some writing pieces that fit in few features. I wrote a story called “Accessorize the Season” for the fall section of the magazine as well as included some poems. I wrote “Winter Won’t Last” for winter and “Spring Ahead, Sleepy Beauty” for spring. I also included a few poems in the open mic section about growth.
Me: What are some of the other stuff people contributed to it?
Shelly: The photography throughout the magazine is from Todd Anderson Photography. There are a few artists in the magazine (Walt Bartlick, Lois Starcher, and Maghie Raye Zeigler). There are short stories that fit into seasons of life, poetry, and good stuff to encourage your heart and soul. Heart and Soul is a section in the magazine that will be create strong health, minds, and souls. Open Mic and Heartbeats are my favorite sections. Heartbeats is where we shine a light on those positively impacting their communities or are making a difference in their part of the world. Open Mic is a chance for poets to share their work and be spotlighted.
Me: So, how did you get the idea to do this project?
Shelly: I love colorful and creative things. I wanted to do a project where art and writing came together. God has lead me down paths that have introduced me to talented and creative people. This was a season of growth for me and the people that I surrounded myself with which is why I named the first volume "seasons." My creativity has awakened, and I feel that I breathe in ink some days. I wanted to pour myself out in a way that could provoke joy and growth in every season of life. I wanted something people can pick up and feel like they are not alone, that whatever they were going through is important to reach their next stage of life. I also just wanted to create something that would make people smile and feel good and I believe the colors and images will do that for people. Hopefully people feel inspired to create something with art or words after reading the magazine. It is all about connection!
Me: It was a rough time putting it together, right? Did you have to jump through a lot of hoops to get this thing out?
Shelly: I learned so many new things. Next time will be easier. It was more about wanting to make it sparkle and I had to learn new programs that would help me do that. I had to learn patience to make sure I could provide readers with the best version of the magazine. I look forward to each volume becoming easier and improved. I still have a lot to learn and I am ready for the challenges in the creative process.
Me: How long did it take you to put this book together?
Shelly: The magazine took almost a year to complete.
Me: So, why "seasons"?
Shelly: I believe that we are granted a season where our purpose is made clear to us, and we can either seize that time to flourish or make excuses why we can’t follow our dreams. This is my season. Everything life has taught me has prepared me to enjoy the peaceful and creative season I am currently in knowing that there are many more things to learn and explore. Life is unpredictable and we all have experience many seasons of like. From joy to sorrow, we need to be reminded that we are doing okay and where we are right now is an opportunity for growth. We are right where we need to be this season.
Me: Do you have a favorite season?
Shelly: My favorite season is fall. I enjoy fall up north a little more with the changing colors and crisp air. Florida doesn’t allow for changing seasons and I do miss them from time to time. I don’t miss shoveling snow or trying to walk on ice. I think I will always choose flip flop and sand when given a choice.
Me: So, there's a lot of chapters in the book... do you have a favorite?
Shelly: There aren’t really chapters in the book. There are different articles that include stories, art, poetry, photography, and interviews.
Me: Do you still do a lot of writing yourself?
Shelly: I write every chance I get. Words stimulate me, and I love organizing them and creating something inspiring. I am currently working on my poetry book called Hearts Art that will be out in the fall.
Me: You were here before for your book Heart Language and this is Work of Hearts Magazine... You like the heart theme, right?
Shelly: My company is called Work of Hearts, Inc. so Work of Hearts Magazine made sense. Heart Language is a book that encourages people to allow their heart to be seen through stories, quotes, and journal prompts. Work of Hearts, Inc is so much more than a theme, it is a lifestyle. When we allow our hearts to be seen, we can love ourselves and those around us better. We weren’t meant to live life alone and the works associated with Work of Hearts just wants to create inspirational and thought-provoking projects that help people become the best person that they can be. The heart is the center of everything… What is in our hearts comes out in our actions. Work of Hearts, Inc. strives to fill up hearts with stuff that creates joy for the journey or endurance for the challenging seasons of life.
Me: So, this is volume one, how many volumes planned? What is the next theme gonna be about?
Shelly: As discussed previously, the long-term goal is to have quarterly publishing; however, right now the magazine will come out each spring. The next volume is called Embrace the In Between. So often we want to get right to what are considered the big things in life. Whether it is a graduation, a job promotion, a proposal, or a goal met... we often miss the wonderful moments between our start and finish lines. It is important to be thankful for the growth of our past and look forward to becoming our best for the future. We cannot forget to enjoy the journey in the present. The in-between is your right now.
Me: Where is the book available, Shelly? Will it be in stores?
Shelly: Work of Hearts Magazine is now available at workofhearts.bigcartel.com and on Amazon.
Me: Thanks so much for being on the Phile. Please come back soon, and we'll hang out soon. I hope this was fun. Thank you so much for having me. I had a good time! I look forward to your next interview in the Work of Hearts Magazine.
That about does it for this entry of the Phile. Thanks to Shelly for a great interview. It was truly an honor to be able to do something for this project. The Phile will be back next Sunday with musician John Oates. Spread the word, not the turd. Don't let snakes and alligators bite you. Bye, love you, bye.
Not if it pleases me. No, you can't stop me, not if it pleases me. - Graham Parker
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