Nov 27 2023

Justin Genzlinger – Settlers Hospitality Group

Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

A native of Hawley, PA, Justin Genzlinger has deep-seated roots in hospitality, having contributed to his family’s boutique hotel and farm-to-table restaurant, The Settlers Inn, from a young age.

After obtaining his B.S. in Accounting from Lehigh University in 1999, Justin ventured into a consulting career in Washington D.C. In 2012, he returned to Northeastern Pennsylvania, driving the growth of Settlers Hospitality. This management company, stemming from The Settlers Inn, plays a pivotal role in the regional economy.

Under Justin’s leadership, the family of properties expanded, with Ledges Hotel and Glass-wine.bar.kitchen leading the way, followed by Lake Region Fitness, Cocoon Coffeehouse and Bakery, Art on the Edge, Silver Birches lakeside resort, and Sayre Mansion.

In addition to his hospitality ventures, Justin actively manages commercial real estate, overseeing approximately 275,000 square feet. His commitment extends to various professional and community organizations, including roles on the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau Executive Board, Pennsylvania Resort and Lodging Association Board, Select Registry (hotel association) finance committee, Marely’s Mission Board, Human Resource Center Foundation Board, and Lacawac Sanctuary finance committee.

In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, I had the privilege of conversing with Justin Genzlinger. Our discussion explores his early passion for hospitality and restaurants, the expansion of his portfolio, the strategic selection of Pocono Mountains locations, his pivotal role in the Settlers Hospitality Group, and valuable advice for emerging entrepreneurs in similar career paths.

Q&A Session

The Creative Spotlight: At what age did you become interested in working in the hospitality and restaurant industries? And, who or what inspired you to pursue a career in these exclusive but exciting professions?

Justin Genzlinger: I grew up in the industry. My parents, Jeanne and Grant Genzlinger, opened The Settlers Inn in 1980. We lived at the hotel and much of my childhood was spent in this atmosphere watching my parents make a living out of their passion for hospitality and farm-to-table dining. When I was about 35 years old, my parents were ready to retire or at least take a step back from the day-to-day operations. At that time there was also an opportunity to consolidate legacy properties in the Pocono Mountains and bring them under the umbrella of Settlers Hospitality to offer a comprehensive experience to guests.

TCS: For the benefit of those who may not be too familiar with Justin Genzlinger or your overall body of work, can you please provide us with a brief overview of your career?

JG: After graduating from Wallenpaupack Area High School I earned a B.S. in Accounting from Lehigh University. My career began with Arthur Anderson LLC. Then as co-founder and partner with Washington D.C. based Actualize Consulting, I worked with government sponsored entities such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In 2012 I returned to Northeast PA and became president and CEO of Settlers Hospitality, a boutique multi-concept hospitality firm. Today, I oversee a portfolio of six hotels, eight restaurants, various lifestyle brands and real estate investments. My specialization is real estate financing for residential, multi-family properties. I’m on the board of community and economic development organizations including Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Pennsylvania Workforce Development, Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association and Settlers Cares Foundation.

TCS: What specifically sparked your interest in acquiring properties primarily situated in the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania?

JG: Home is where the heart is, it’s that simple. My parents firmly established a flagship property in The Settlers Inn. Applying their blueprint for authentic experiences and exemplary hospitality to other properties was really a no brainer. Acquiring other properties also allowed us to stimulate economic development in the area and open up professional career opportunities to more residents. It also filled a gap in the Pocono Mountains by providing a product previously unavailable in the region.

TCS: Can you share with us the specific boutique hotels, diverse restaurants, distinctive event venues, and lifestyle offerings that comprise the Settlers Hospitality Group?

JG: Certainly! Settlers Hospitality Group encompasses a curated selection of boutique hotels, offering unique and personalized experiences. Our diverse range of restaurants caters to various tastes, ensuring a culinary journey for every palate. Additionally, our distinctive event venues provide the perfect settings for memorable occasions. The lifestyle offerings within our group are crafted to enhance and enrich the overall experience, reflecting our commitment to exceptional hospitality and curated moments.

The Settlers Inn – A traditional historic arts and crafts lodge set in exquisite gardens along the Lackawaxen River. Our original, flagship farm-to-table fine dining experience with an award-winning wine list offers guests the option to dine in the historic Arts and Crafts dining room or on our garden terrace overlooking decades old gardens which house over 100,000 perennials, native plants and flowers. The Undercroft provides a warm and elegant setting for indoor events while the gardens and Grant’s Woods offer lovely outdoor venues.

Ledges Hotel & Glass-wine.bar.kitchen – A Peter Bohlin designed industrial contemporary boutique hotel set inside the Wallenpaupack Gorge. Intentionally non-traditional, Glass-wine.bar.kitchen is a sophisticated, yet casual small plates dining experience set in a towering waterfall gorge. The tapas-style eatery features a domestic wine and cocktail program that rivals the complexity of any urban mixologist. The tiered decks create a stunning backdrop for weddings and special events.

Silver Birches & The Dock on Wallenpaupack – A sunset facing vintage lake front resort set on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack. A casual, vintage eatery overlooking Lake Wallenpaupack, The Dock is a true water lovers’ haven with simple, delicious, time proven classics and an atmosphere appropriate for guests in any attire, whether arriving by car or by boat. Guests have the option to dine inside, surrounded by windows offering lake views or on the outside waterfront deck. The Waterfront offers a bright, welcoming atmosphere with expansive water views for banquets, weddings, and private events.

Hotel Anthracite & Kōl Grill – A modern hotel in an urban setting that celebrates the history and heritage of the community. Located in Hotel Anthracite, Kōl Grill is a casual restaurant with traditional and creative dishes. Guests enjoy weekly specials and culinary events. Gravity Hall is one of the largest event venues in the area and boasts an elegant, contemporary atmosphere ideal for weddings, conferences, and banquets.

Sayre Mansion & The Founder’s Table – A favorite among hotels in Bethlehem PA, known for offering luxurious accommodations, historic charm and refined services for individual travelers and select groups. Experience a truly unique dinner at Founders’ Table here in the private dining room at The Sayre Mansion. Immerse yourself in the very spaces that founding fathers Robert Sayre and Asa Packer once enjoyed. Your six-course meal will be prepared and served by our award-winning caterer Karen Hunter and her team.

The Chestnut Inn – A lakeside destination in the grand tradition of the Catskill resorts of 1940s and ’50s. Located on the shores of Oquaga Lake, a private swimming lake in the foothills of New York’s Catskill Mountains. Guests enjoy 400 feet of waterfront and a French Brasserie style restaurant.

Cocoon Coffeehouse and Bakery – A coffee house highlighting hand crafted locally roasted coffee drinks featuring Moka Origins products. Quick service breakfast and lunches featuring fresh baked bread and pastries. Also carrying local cheese, milk, eggs, and meat.

Runaway Train Brewery – The craft brews and elevated pub food of Runaway Train Brewery celebrate Honesdale PA’s rich railroading legacy in a historic building along the tracks of the fabled D& H Railroad.

Hawley Silk Mill & The Boiler Room – A vital part of this community since its construction in 1880. Its many incarnations over the years have included a silk factory with the foremost technology of the day, a textile factory, and antique center. Never has it been more vibrant than today. The vision for the repurposed factory is to have a center that celebrates the lifestyle of the Pocono Lake Region – a place for the residents and visitors alike to shop, gather, eat, exercise, and learn. The industrial repurposed style of the Hawley Silk Mill makes a unique event venue. The Boiler Room features stunning views of the river gorge and decor that blends historic elements with a modern vibe.

Blu Stone Catering – Delivering signature cuisine, superior quality and attention to detail synonymous with Settlers Hospitality to off-site events. Featuring creative menus in a variety of styles, price points and themes to enhance any occasion. Offering full-service catering services at the venue of your choosing. Specializing in weddings, celebrations, corporate retreats and private dinners. Whether assisting to plan a wedding, rehearsal dinner, party, corporate retreat, or other festivity, our event coordinators are committed to applying their knowledge and skills to create a high level, personalized event that realizes the guest’s vision for their special day.

Pocono Region Vacation Rentals – A unique alternative to hotel accommodations giving guests the opportunity to live like a local and enjoy the comforts of home. Vacation rentals provide a wide range of experiences, from small town living ideal for walking adventures to rural housing with lake rights or views of Lake Wallenpaupack and a Fazio designed golf course.

Lake Region Fitness – A boutique fitness center fully equipped with the latest machines and free weights offering members 24/7 access.

Art on the Edge – A specialty retail store focused on contemporary art, home decor, gifts, and fashion.

Gorgeous Floral – Distinctive floral arrangements, whether it is ‘just because’ or for the myriad of life’s momentous occasions. Gorgeous Floral is a ‘feast for the eyes’ retail shop; an experience you won’t forget.

The Potting Shed – A retail and gift store themed around garden art featuring products consistent with the arts and crafts lodge setting of The Settlers Inn.

TCS: Can you tell us about how your parents purchased the Settlers Inn, a Poconos Craftsman-style lodge built in 1980, and began there, now your, labor of love?

JG: For over 40 years Jeanne and Grant Genzlinger have nurtured the ideals of historic preservation, not only at The Settlers Inn but throughout their community in the Northern Poconos. The Settlers Inn, built in 1927, is a fine example of English Arts and Crafts design. Native Bluestone and chestnut woods are the foundation of the Inn’s massive structure. The building was established by the community shortly after Lake Wallenpaupack, a man-made lake with a 52-mile shoreline, was created in 1925. The forward-thinking Chamber of Commerce rightfully believed that tourism would come, and they wanted to be prepared with the finest hotel for miles around. They succeeded in building the hotel that originally had 54 rooms. Unfortunately, the Great Depression and World War II kept the building from opening until 1944. After a series of different owners and incarnations, the Genzlinger family and friends purchased the property in 1980. It continues to be a labor of love. Throughout every aspect of The Settlers Inn experience, Founders Jeanne and Grant Genzlinger infused the true spirit of the Arts and Crafts movement, a philosophy which emerged in the 1860s in England in reaction to the heavy ornamentation and industrialization of the high Victorian era. The restaurant opened first, and it was farm-to-table from the very beginning.

TCS: Can you please take a few moments to expand upon the rich history of the Settlers Inn?

JG: The philosophy of the Arts and Crafts movement also lent itself to hospitality and the Genzlingers’ own beliefs- creativity flows from the head to the heart to the hands. That mantra has carried on through 40 years. The Genzlingers’ credit a commitment to excellence and quality as their key to success. Striving to offer guests new experiences launched a number of events that have become synonymous with The Settlers Inn and staple celebrations for the community including Candlelight Christmas and Jazz on the Deck. More recently, The Settlers Inn launched Grant’s Woods, a woodland dining experience that was carved out of an underutilized portion of the property. The area boasts posh picnic cabins, hammock chairs, an extra-large fire pit and wicker furniture for lounging. With the creation of Grant’s Woods, guests enjoy new amenities in a beautiful, natural space that’s spread out.

TCS: Would you classify The Settlers Inn as a four-season Inn? What’s your most popular season and what kind of special events do you host?

JG: The Settlers Inn is absolutely a four-season property. While summer and fall tend to be the most popular among guests, winter offers a cozy getaway and those visiting in spring enjoy seeing the gardens and surrounding countryside burst to life. There are a number of special events held throughout the year. Many have become signature events with guests returning year after year just for the occasion. The Settlers Inn hosts a Storytelling Dinner each October that features over 100 intricately carved jack ‘o lanterns that serve as the backdrop for an autumn dinner complete with slightly spooky tales. Candlelight Christmas ushers in the holiday season with an elegant, festive meal served amid the Inn’s elaborate decorations. The arrival of spring brings a Perennial Exchange, which boasts a garden tour and talk along with a lovely lunch served on the terrace. Jazz on the Deck is a staple of the summer season in the Pocono Mountains. Every Wednesday evening during summer professional jazz musicians perform on the Terrace while guests savor a meal al fresco. Themed wine dinners are also held throughout the year to pair the Inn’s award-winning wine list with the restaurant’s farm-to-table cuisine.

TCS: Tell us about how Settlers Hospitality acquired the 1890s O’Connor Glass Factory, a five-story Federal-style building located in Hawley, PA, and transformed it into The Ledges Hotel, a boutique hotel and restaurant?

JG: We were already at work on an ambitious $15 million project to revitalize the Hawley Silk Mill when the former glass factory property came on the market. At the time it was a defunct time share. The building sits adjacent to the Hawley Silk Mill. Acquiring what would become Ledges Hotel not only enabled us to add another high-quality property to our collection but also complete the campus around the Hawley Silk Mill.

TCS: Bahttps://thesettlersinn.com/ck in 2015, how did your family acquire the Silver Birches property from the Ehrhardt family?

JG: Hawley is essentially the anchor town that serves Lake Wallenpaupack. Although we had properties in town, we were not able to offer any lake-related amenities to our guests. Our family had a long-standing friendship with the Ehrhardt family, the former owners of Silver Birches. They were experiencing a generational change in business as well with the most involved family members ready to retire. The acquisition simultaneously accomplished our goal of adding to guests’ experiences with a lakeside offering and ensured the continuation of what the Ehrhardt family had established over 80 years prior.

TCS: Tell us about The Dock on Wallenpaupack, a casual, vintage eatery set on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack?

JG: The Dock on Wallenpaupack is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. The restaurant is a true water lovers’ haven with simple, delicious, time-proven classics and an atmosphere appropriate for guests in any attire, whether arriving by car or by boat. Guests have the option to dine inside, surrounded by windows overlooking the lake, inside the cozy Pub or on the outside waterfront deck.

TCS: What is the historical connection with Hotel Anthracite and the Coal Mining heritage of Carbondale?

JG: Carbondale, PA was the site of the first underground mining operation in America. The city was built on the coal mining industry, which was active there from the 1830s until the 1950s. Hotel Anthracite pays tribute to that rich history and its people through its name and many historical displays throughout the property.

TCS: What do you feel makes the Sayre Mansion a favorite among individual travelers and select groups in Bethlehem PA?

JG: The Sayre Mansion has been a landmark in Bethlehem, PA since 1858. The first mansion of its kind in the city’s prestigious Fountain Hill neighborhood was built for one of Bethlehem’s most prominent citizens, Robert Heysham Sayre. A meticulous restoration of the property transformed The Sayre Mansion into a stunning inn designed to host guests in the grand tradition of its founder, Robert Sayre who gained renown as chief engineer of the Lehigh Valley Railroad. We see ourselves as stewards of this grand home and staff members act as historians preserving and sharing the heritage of the building with guests. There are 19 guest rooms within the mansion and four suites located in the former Carriage House. Many spaces retain original touches such as the vaulted ceiling, chandelier and the floor to ceiling bookshelves of the mansion’s former library.

TCS: Can you provide us with details about the six-course meal served at The Founder’s Table by your Award-Winning Caterer Karen Hunter and Her Team?

JG: The Founder’s Table lets visitors “Feast Like a Founder” when they dine in the same surroundings where some of Bethlehem’s most notable industrial magnates held court. In-house caterer Karen Hunter prepares a sumptuous six-course meal for 8-18 guests that’s served in the privacy of the mansion’s formal dining room. Dinner entrees may include Chilean Sea Bass, Roasted Duck Breast or Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Quail. Guests choose from seven menus or customize the meal to their liking. At least 72 hours’ notice is required for reservations and the meal is BYOB.

TCS: Share with us some details about The Chestnut Inn, a charming bed and breakfast on the shores of Oquaga Lake at The Chestnut Inn located in Central New York since 1927?

JG: The Chestnut Inn is the newest addition to Settlers Hospitality’s collection of distinctive properties. Originally operated as a 60-room hotel, the structure was built almost entirely from American Chestnut, which is now extinct. Much of the original woodwork remains intact including the expansive lobby, grand staircase and lounge with a stunning bar. A massive stone fireplace that burns four-foot logs is the focal point of the lobby. The baseball size piece of marble in the center was brought from Germany by the president of Borden Dairy, a frequent guest. The Chestnut Inn is a lakeside destination in the grand tradition of the Catskill resorts of the 1940s and ’50s. Located on the shores of Oquaga Lake, a private swimming lake in the foothills of New York’s Catskill Mountains. Guests enjoy 400 feet of waterfront, 17 guest suites and a wonderful French Brasserie themed restaurant.

TCS: Tell us about the Runaway Train, a D&H Brewing Company, and how it is celebrating the rich history of the railroad while serving the finest craft beers in Honesdale, PA?

JG: The first successful operation of a steam locomotion in American happened in Honesdale, PA. Runaway Train Brewery sits alongside the fabled tracks of the former D&H Railroad. A stellar selection of craft beers is brewed in-house and served with a creative menu of elevated pub food.

TCS: What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs who want to make a living in the hospitality and restaurant industries?

JG: The hospitality industry is an enriching experience no matter your career path. Whether or not you make it your life-long profession you’ll take away invaluable skills sets that will serve you in every walk of life. If you’re successful, you’ll learn how to cultivate relationships and build strong interpersonal skills. The communication tools and customer service lessons have far-reaching applications. I would encourage anyone to spend some time in the hospitality industry, but I bet once you get a taste of it, you’ll fall in love, and it will become your full-time passion.

About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Since 2012, Francesco Vincenzo Iacono has served as the President and CEO of The Creative Spotlight, the ultimate destination for unearthing a wealth of undiscovered musical talent, reading exciting interviews, releasing new music and sharing exclusive videos.

Every good story needs a good storyteller. And, The Creative Spotlight has truly provided a quality forum for revealing those great stories. Through the years, the online publication has featured national and local musicians such as Ash Costello from New Years Day, Williams Honor, Stacey David Blades, Screaming For Silence, Ages Apart, Roxy Petrucci, Peter Beckett, We The Kings, Everything Falls, Rod Black, Derek Crider, Daniel Mason Band, The Rockin’ Krolik, Michelle Leigh, Jessie G., Karen Mansfield and Hillbilly Vegas.

Additionally, The Creative Spotlight has also focused on historic Pennsylvania-based paranormal venues such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Paranormal investigator Kitsie Duncan, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice, the Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride, well-known actors, and actresses, published authors, professional artists, local businesses, consultants, trainers, speakers and more…

Francesco earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.

Jul 29 2023

Tamara Lee – Actress, Fashion Model, and Influencer

Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Tamara Lee, who was born and raised in Burlington, Ontario Canada, is a rising 50-something Fashion Model, Actress, and Influencer. In 2018, Tamara left Canada and moved to New York, New York to pursue her modeling career. In 2021, she left New York and moved to the west coast and lived in Los Angeles, California to pursue her acting career. Then, in 2023, she moved back to New York to ultimately combine both careers and set the course for her future. So, how did this Canadian mom turned model end up living on both coasts?

While Ms. Lee loved her 25-year hospitality career she felt unfulfilled like something was seriously missing, but for the longest time she didn’t know exactly what it was. She just knew that life had more to offer her. In 2017, at the age of 46, Tamara decided to shake up her life and take a chance on herself when she embarked on a career in modeling.

With that, she joined a couple of “Over 40” groups in hopes of connecting with like-minded individuals who had a similar passion for fitness and living a full life. The idea was to share some tips, pointers, etc. Through these groups, she loved what she saw and realized that there were a lot of others like her out there that believed they too could be in their 40’s and still set new goals, dream new dreams, and live a new and active life! That is when her movement officially began!

Later, at the urging of a good friend, she decided to book a photoshoot with a well-known photographer in the Toronto area to both market and promote herself. Little did she realize that the photo session was going to be the beginning of what would become a whole new career path! As a result, her following grew through shoutout pages and general interest for a “Mature Model” and an “Over 40” genre. To that extent, she decided to put a portfolio together and sign up for a few online modelling websites. Soon she was being booked by photographers to model for portfolios and for print work. It was at that time, where she began to share her message, the one that drives her and fuels her passion. “No matter what your age, you are NEVER too old to dream a new dream or set a new goal in your life!”

In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, I had the pleasure of interviewing Tamara Lee and asking her a few questions about what first got her interested in being a fashion model, her career as an actress, her experience in working as the lead actress on Amazon Prime’s Life After 40, her appearance in Sirr Jones’ “9 to 5” video, as well as her short and long-term future projects.

Q&A Session

The Creative Spotlight: At what age did you become interested in becoming an actress, fashion model, and Influencer? And, who or what inspired you to pursue a career in these exclusive but exciting professions?

TL: My modeling journey began in 2017 at the age of 46, as such my presence on social media grew and I added acting to my repertoire in 2021. This creative career actually began as I was traveling down another path. I had gone back to school at the age of 43 to upgrade my education after the end of a 21-year marriage where I would be on my own for the first time in my adult life. There were many people who were surprised that I’d decided to make such a big life change, and I learned just how many people felt I was too old to make these changes. I decided that part of my new life/journey needed to be to show people that you could make big changes no matter what your age.

At the urging of a friend, I decided to take my message to social media and share my story. My friend thought I should participate in a photoshoot and share my pictures and story via Instagram. So, I did the shoot and had so much fun! I sent my pictures to a few shoutout pages that promoted the over 40 crowd. Low and behold as my social media presence began to grow. I had photographers reaching out to me to shoot with them as a model! I was truly shocked. What began as traveling down one different path led me to my actual passion, which was being in front of the camera.

TCS: For the benefit of those who may not be too familiar with Tamara Lee or your overall body of work, can you please provide us with a brief overview of your career?

TL: I am a freelance model, actress, content creator and influencer. I have had the pleasure of working with multiple photographers, doing commercial and print work. I have also been featured in multiple music videos and have also been published in a few different magazines including a couple covers. I also do UGC content creation and promotion for brands/companies. Additionally, I just finished a supporting role in the upcoming movie “Tainted” which was shot in Indiana. I will be traveling to Nashville in September to take part in another movie in which I have a lead role that will be on Netflix in 2024. I am also blessed to be a social media influencer with over 1 million followers across my platforms. I do a live stream podcast on my YouTube channel weekly.

TCS: Can you give us 3 “Need to Know” facts about you?

TL: 3 “Need to Know” facts about Tamara would be that:

First: I’m very family oriented. My close circle is very important to me.
Second: I’m very business minded yet also very creative.
Third: I stand out in a crowd, and not in an egotistical way. My energy is life giving and it shows.

TCS: In what ways do you feel being born and raised in Burlington, Ontario Canada, then moving to Los Angeles, California, and now living in New York has influenced and shaped your career choices and goals?

TL: My goals have changed/shaped and evolved over the years. It was amazing being born and raised in beautiful Burlington Ontario Canada. I knew that in order to take my modeling career to the next level, I needed to be in New York. It was there that I gained valuable experience in the industry. When I decided I wanted to give acting a try, I made the decision to make a big move and go to Los Angeles once again. It was there that I got my first movie role in Life after 40. It was a wonderful experience to live in Los Angeles but in the spring of 2023, I moved back across the Country to New York to further all aspects of this amazing journey I’ve embarked on.

TCS: Describe for us your experience in playing the role of Kate in Jason Jordan and Jim Ross’ 2022 movie Life After 40?

TL: Life after 40 was a wonderful experience for me! It was a small cast and crew and as such not overwhelming as a new actress. This was my first film and I learned so much! Everyone was so helpful to me and there were a lot of laughs every day on set. I don’t think I could have asked for a better first role experience than this one.

TCS: What do you feel is the hardest part of getting into the mindset of a character?

TL: I feel that the hardest part of getting into a character is learning about the character’s traits and personality, as well as figuring out the best way to bring them to life to do the role justice.

TCS: How did you land the role in the TV commercial for Edible?

TL: I was approached by a chef who was involved in a wonderful project that was going to be combining food and models together to create a series of cookbooks with a fashion flair! Since I was not only modeling but also had a passion for cooking, I was chosen to represent the project as the lead model in the commercial.

TCS: Tell us about your experience in filming Sirr Jones’ video for “9 to 5” featuring Shorty T?

TL: Working with Sirr Jones and Shorty T for their video “9 to 5” was such a wonderful experience. Both artists are very talented! I consider it to be an honor to be able to work on music videos as a model in my 50s. Typically, I am the oldest model on set! It is such a blessing.

TCS: As an actress, what’s the most exciting role you’ve played? Why?

TL: The last film I worked on, Tainted, was the most exciting. I worked with some truly fabulous cast and crew on this production. This was most definitely the most dedicated and hardworking production that I’ve had the pleasure of working with. The script and story line are so well-written, and I can’t even begin to tell you how much heart and soul went into this! We all became family on this production. Lifelong connections!

TCS: From a modeling perspective, what are you most proud of? Why?

TL: I’ve been so blessed and fortunate to have worked on so many great modeling projects during my career, but I would have to say that receiving my first magazine cover at the age of 50 has been the greatest highlight! This industry is very competitive, there are so many beautiful and talented models out there and for me to be chosen to be on the cover at the age of 50 was truly incredible!

TCS: Have you embraced social platforms to help market your acting and fashion model career as well as your work as an influencer?

TL: Absolutely. I’ve certainly embraced social media.

To stay connected, please join me on the following:

Tamara Lee Website
Tamara Lee Facebook
Tamara Lee Instagram
Tamara Lee TikTok
Tamara Lee YouTube

To inquire about booking me for a modeling/acting opportunity or to book me for an appearance, please email me at tamaralee@tamaraleeisme.com

TCS: Can you tell us about your “From the Heart” podcast?

TL: The “From the Heart” podcast was a couple years in the making before I brought it to life. Originally, it began airing on Anchor and Spotify. I am very excited to announce that in the coming weeks, it will be a “live” podcast broadcast on my YouTube channel. During the podcast, I speak about my journey including life’s trials and tribulations in a way that comes natural to me and from the heart.

TCS: Can you please share with us what the quote, “You are never too old to dream a new dream or set a new goal” means to you personally?

TL: The quote “you are never too old to dream a new dream or set a new goal” is a constant reminder that no matter where you are in life, no matter how old you are, or whatever situation you are in, YOU have the power and opportunity to set new goals and chase after your dreams. I feel that many people think that once you hit middle age it’s too late to make big changes and take big risks in life. It’s been my mission to show people through my journey that it’s not. There is no greater joy to me to hear that I’ve inspired someone to chase their dreams because they’ve seen me chase mine.

TCS: What does the short and long-term future look like for Tamara Lee?

TL: I am excited to see what the next chapter has in store for me! Short-term, the launch of my new YouTube channel which will feature food, fashion, and fitness. Additionally, a merchandise line is also in the works as well as another movie role! Long-term is something I choose not to focus on…it’s just one day at a time!

About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Francesco earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.

Feb 19 2023

Inn at the Falls – Bracebridge, Ontario

Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

The Inn at the Falls, situated in one of Ontario’s most picturesque towns in the center of the world-renowned Muskoka region, is a boutique vacation inn and resort that is perfectly nestled on the banks of the Muskoka River in Bracebridge, Canada.

Comprised of an impressive 1870’s historic Victorian property and an adjacent building complex called The Mews, the Inn exudes a quaint and cozy atmosphere containing a fully renovated Italian restaurant, renamed Basilico, and an outdoor patio with gorgeous water view. The Inn features a total of 20 guest rooms: 10 rooms in the estate home and 10 lakeview rooms with balconies at The Mews.

Current owners Minna Hu and Cliff Wichmann jumped headfirst into a new industry when they decided to buy the inn in February of 2020. Wichmann grew up in Gravenhurst, Ontario, Canada, but in 2013, his career led him to California where he met Hu. A mutual friend tasked him with teaching her how to drive, and under his instruction she eventually received her driver’s license. During this time, the two became well acquainted. They were later married and started their family in California before moving to Muskoka with their two boys to run the inn.

While running a hospitality business was new to them, Hu said they immediately saw the inn’s potential. Additionally, locals told them stories about visiting or working at the inn, which inspired the new owners to revitalize the property and restore its status as a community hub.

In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, we highlight The Inn at the Falls and its owner Minna Hu. During our interview, we discussed what sparked her interest in acquiring the historic Inn, how living in Silicon Valley, CA prepared her for moving to Ontario, what kind of amenities and features her guests could anticipate when staying at the property, as well as her ultimate vision for the Inn.

Q&A Session

The Creative Spotlight: Where is the Inn at the Falls located within the Greater Toronto Area?

Minna Hu: The Inn at the Falls is located approximately 1.5 hours driving distance from Toronto, Ontario Canada in the beautiful downtown historic area of Bracebridge, Muskoka. Muskoka is known as the “Malibu of the North“.

The Inn at the Falls, a 1.7-acre land parcel strategically situated on the bank of Muskoka River, features 2 buildings with the main building being an 1870s Victorian estate. The Inn once served as the home of Judge William Mahaffy, the District’s first Judge. Located in walking distance from shops, restaurants, and attractions in downtown Bracebridge. It is a perfect travel destination for those looking to discover history, uncover water views, and find relaxation. When having a coffee in rooms equipped with a balcony, guests can hear the sound of the Bracebridge Falls and even encounter a family of deer.

TCS: Can you please expand upon the rich history of the Inn?

Minna: As mentioned, the main building of Inn at the Falls is an 1870s Victorian estate, one of the first masonry buildings in Bracebridge. The Inn at the Falls comprises 2 buildings hosting 20 guest rooms as well as Basilico, an Italian restaurant, and event space accommodating 270 people.

In 1877, Mahaffy (a land surveyor turned lawyer, real estate developer, and First District Judge) purchased it as his house, where he and his wife Sarah, raised their four children. This property has served as a hub for economic development ever since. There are a few books written exclusively about this property, one of them was written by Judge Mahaffy’s great grandson and published in 2021.

This property has rich characters and stories, run by generations of innkeepers since it was turned into an inn in 1947. We purchased the property in February of 2020, and kept in touch with the previous innkeepers, the Rickard’s and the Niven’s. Innkeepers are essential to the Muskoka tourism history, and it’s important that we share their stories.

TCS: What specifically sparked your interest in acquiring the historic Inn in 2020?

Minna: You might expect to hear a beautiful story whereby we always wanted to run an inn, especially a historical inn like the Inn at the Falls. However, the reality is, the inn was for sale in November 2019, we bought it due to its prime location. Over the years, we’ve invested in real estate; however, we are newbies to the hospitality industry. We officially, took over the inn in February of 2020. Unfortunately, one month later we experienced the global lockdown because of COVID19.

My understanding of running an inn was simply renting a few rooms; however, inn operation is a totally new world, we learned from zero. During this difficult time, our background in business, real estate, and how to persevere through difficult times were very helpful and relevant. Aim big, starting small, and focusing on what is in front of us, it’s a great lesson that we learned. From replacing all roofs, upgrading the boiler system, sourcing furniture, replacing all TVs, and then renovating one guest room at a time till all 20 guest rooms were updated and available for booking. We pulled from our capital reserve and invested a lot of money into upgrading the Inn as financing options weren’t available in the hospitality industry during COVID.

TCS: In what ways did living in Silicon Valley, CA prepare you for moving to Bracebridge, Ontario and running the Inn?

Minna: Silicon Valley is quite different from Bracebridge or Muskoka. In Silicon Valley, we had access to more resources such as same-day shipping and grocery delivery. However, in Bracebridge, everything is located close by including grocery stores, schools, and workplaces. Equally, Bracebridge is very community focused. Since taking over a historically well-known property, we have gotten to know lots of people in the community. One of the reasons we kept going was because many locals and guests said that we’ve done a great job in our efforts to rekindle the Inn.

What we did bring back from Silicon Valley is our focus and appreciation of technology as well as people. Both my husband and I were software engineers in Silicon Valley, so anything that we could automate made us excited. So, we setup systems in housekeeping, phone systems, and reporting.

Building our team from ground up, we got great feedback from our team members that we had created a positive work environment and a good appreciate for each other.

TCS: Are you a four-season Inn? What’s your most popular season and what kind of special events do you host?

Minna: Yes, we’re open year-round. Our most popular season is from May 24 to October. During that time, we are almost full 7 days a week.

With 20 guest rooms, along with the best patio and Italian restaurant in Muskoka, our Inn is perfect for corporate events, family events, and weddings. Hosting family and guests at the Inn, with ceremonies and parties there is no need to step out of the estate as we have everything located right on premises. In the winter, you can enjoy the snow as well as amenities including fireplaces, sauna, and a gym.

Starting in 2023, we will have a few signature events: Historical and Ghost Tour with augmented reality, which people can walk through the property, see 3D models of historical characters (such as Judge Mahaffy and his wife Sarah), 3D models of the historical property layout, videos and photos of the inn’s history and characters in augmented reality.

Every year on Canada Day, we are the best spot to view the fireworks. Last year, 150 people showed up in our courtyard to watch the fireworks. Another signature event is winter weddings, could you imagine getting married in an 1870 Victorian estate?

TCS: If a couple visited the Inn for a weekend gateway, what kind of accommodations could they anticipate as well as some of the popular amenities and features they can expect?

Minna: We have 7 different room types, from Standard Rooms to Lake View Suite Rooms with a Balcony. There is a fit for everybody. The Lake View rooms are definitely the most popular among couples.

When you stay at the Inn, you will have access to our amazing staff. Equally, you will enjoy the gorgeous view of the Muskoka River, hear the sounds of the Bracebridge Falls, admire the historical charm of the 1870s Victorian home, dine at Basilico our Italian restaurant and patio, and shop downtown.

During the summer months, the patio offers a beautiful outdoor setting for casual dining. Colourful gardens surround the three tiers overlooking Bracebridge Bay, while large old maples sway in the breeze and a multitude of flowers scent the air. The perfect Muskoka setting for a most enjoyable lunch or dinner.

TCS: What are the room rates, and are there any minimum stay requirements?

Minna: No, we do not have any minimum stay requirements. Our summer rates range from $185.00-$300.00 plus tax per night. For winter months, we usually have great some deals available.

Check-in/Check-out Policies

Check-In: 3:00 PM
Check-Out: 11:00 AM
Property and Cancellation Policies: Partial Charge – First Night Stay – If canceled within 3 days of arrival

TCS: I understand that the Inn is haunted especially the William Mullock Room 105, can you tell us something about that?

Minna: Room 105 has the most spiritual activities. We list this room as its own room type, it’s called the Heritage Room. The room features a very interesting bed and bathroom layout. We have guests who drive 7 hours to just stay in that room.

The spirits in that room are playful, it’s always fun to hear guests sharing their experience. We even have a custom-made beer for this room, called 105 Beer.

TCS: Have you had any personal experiences? If so, please tell us about it?

Minna: No, I haven’t personally experienced anything; however, some staff have. One housekeeper heard something saying “get out” when she was making the bed in Room 105. Another housekeeper noticed a tray full of items were thrown to the floor after she had just finished cleaning that room.

TCS: Do most guests come to the Inn knowing it’s haunted or are they generally surprised? Has anyone left because of something they experienced during their stay?

Minna: I think most people come to the Inn because of its view, convenient location, historical charm, and great amenities. In November of 2022, we did a ghosted weekend escape for guests who love paranormal experience. We had 12 people show up for the event and they had lots of fun.

TCS: I understand there are renovations underway, so what is your ultimate vision for the Inn?

Minna: We have been renovating the Inn since we took it over in February of 2020. In that time, we’ve added a new roof, updated all rooms in the Mews, conducted multiple room updates in the main Inn, and we also completely renovated the restaurant, and the lounge area too. All totaled it’s probably close to a 2 million investment.

Now our focus is to add some amenities for the winter season such as a sauna, gym, etc. Additionally, we also have plans to add another building facing the Muskoka River with a roof patio.

About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Additionally, The Creative Spotlight has also focused on historic Pennsylvania-based paranormal venues such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Paranormal investigator Kitsie Duncan, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice, the Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride, well-known actors and actresses, published authors, professional artists, local businesses, consultants, trainers, speakers and more…

Francesco earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.

Nov 18 2022

Houston Llew – Spiritiles Artist

Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Houston Llew is a man with southern roots and all the charm to prove it. Houston’s kind heart, wit, and warmth emanate from his masterful Spiritile Collection. He took a circuitous route to the birth of Spiritiles.

As a graduate of Auburn University, Houston began a career in the corporate world. In 2008, he found himself unemployed in the middle of the great recession. Through fortuitous circumstances, Houston met the master enamelist Zingaro and followed him around, shadowing the artist around his studio until he gave Houston the keys to enameling that would later evolve into his first work – Spiritiles.

For months, Houston spent every waking hour over a kiln, experimenting and sketching. This tenacity kept him going so that when one thing wouldn’t work, he would step back, retool, and try a new path. He is infamous for “spitballing” ideas and trying seemingly crazy things just to see if they work. By harnessing that constant experimentation, his artistry evolved from enameled imagery to a combined image and story design. From the beginning, what pushed Houston forward was his uplifting thoughts and musings. This became the cornerstone of his work – create art that inspires, uplifts, and brings a hopeful connection to life.

Houston’s work in enameling is based on his belief that meaningful art is about emotion. Thus, every Spiritile created reflects a piece of our story. These icons stretch our memory and bring to mind the people we love, the things we cherish, and the passions we pursue. When Houston first started his artistic journey, he sought a medium to animate this inspiration. Vitreous enamel, the art of glass heat-fused to metal, is as ancient as Mesopotamia, with infamous historical artworks in royal jewelry and imperial treasures. It is an illustrious but little-known medium that Houston cast in a new form. With its metallic base as canvas and its myriad glass colors as “paint”, what makes this work unique is the story wrapped around the sides of each piece. Some Spiritiles quote authors and poets, other philosophers, and fellow artists, but every piece is designed to speak to our life and reach our emotive self.

In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, we caught up with Houston Llew and we asked him a few questions about his artistic influences, his career as an artist, his unique Spiritiles, as well as his marketing approach to reaching his collectors.

Q&A Session

The Creative Spotlight: How and when did you decide to embark in your profession and who or what influenced you to become an artist?

Houston Llew: I started enameling in a poorly constructed leaning garage in Atlanta, Georgia. In the middle of the great recession, during a record-breaking hot summer, I found myself unemployed. Through fortuitous circumstances, I befriended the master enamellist Zingaro. I shadowed the artist around his studio until he finally gave me the keys to enameling. This would later evolve into my first works ─ Spiritiles.

For months, I spent every waking hour over a kiln, experimenting, sketching, living on only “Ramen Noodles and Beer”. The only reason my art exists today is because I had no other option ─ no job to fall back on, no security other than what I could create myself. Tenacity keeps me going. When one thing doesn’t work, step back, retool, and try a new path.

TCS: What is a Spiritile?

HL: Spiritiles are enameled artworks that create happiness, spark joy and brings hope to each person who encounters them.

Each piece is made by hand with a copper canvas and colorful glass. The enameled image is enhanced by the natural “crazing” which magnifies the luminescence of the glass. This image is coupled with an uplifting story that wraps around the edges; each Spiritile is as unique as its collector.

TCS: What three words best describes your specific style of artwork?

HL: The three best words would be:

Unique
Luminous
Collectible

TCS: How do you make a Spiritile?

HL: First by laying powdered glass, or “frit,” onto a perfectly cut copper canvas, using a series of stencils for each layer of color, playing cards, and hand sifters to carve out the design. Once delicately aligned and layered, the glass and metal is carefully placed in the red-hot kiln.

TCS: Is there one specific thing that makes Spiritiles meaningful?

HL: I believe that meaningful art is about emotion. Thus, every Spiritile created reflects a piece of our story. These icons stretch our memory and bring to mind the people we love, the things we cherish, and the passions we pursue.

TCS: What do you feel makes them a unique piece of artwork?

Spiritiles offer community – a tangible, familiar image paired with a beautiful sentiment. When collected, Spiritiles become a montage of moments that make us smile, laugh, remember, and dare to dream. As gifts, they share brilliant moments with the people you love or admire. Whether it’s commemorating an important milestone like a big birthday, wedding, a graduation, first home, or even a sales goal exceeded, Spiritiles are the perfect way to honor the moment.

TCS: What are the cracks in an enameled piece?

HL: When the enameled piece is removed from the kiln it’s cooled under a planchet. The natural “CRAZING” occurs in enamel. It increases the luminescence of the glass.

By rolling a pin over the surface of each piece after cooling, the light refraction in the glass increases and the enamel becomes malleable enough to frame.

TCS: How do you hang a Spiritile on a wall?

HL: Typically, you can use 1.25″ drywall screws. The hole in the back is at a slight angle, so the weight will pull it to the wall.

The ideal spacing is 2″ between tiles. This puts screws at 7.25″ apart horizontally and 10.5″ apart Vertically.

TCS: What provides you with ideas and inspires you to create such beautiful tiles?

HL: Neither image nor story come first.

Before any of that there is that raw emotion. Every piece is designed to speak to our life and reach our emotive self. The imagery & medium are very engaging, but the story is where I’m able to gain access to the emotional connection. I spend great care crafting how I want each syllable to make you feel. Stealing & bending the words from others to create my own sentiments.

TCS: Over the course of your career, what is your favorite Spiritile?

HL: It’s always the one I’m currently working on! So, by the time you see it… it’ll be something else. I sort of live in the moment when it comes to my favorite art.

Picking a favorite would be like picking between your children. I’m proud of all of them equally (most of the time)!

TCS: How do you market your Spiritiles and do you participate in any public appearances?

HL: We only sell through our select Retail Partners who have brick and mortar storefronts. Human interaction is what Spiritiles are all about. We used to attend Markets around the country but more recently we’ve been fortunate enough now to have Retailers hear about us from seeing us in other partner shops during their own travels. So, essentially, we’ve been operating mainly by word-of-mouth!

In the past, I have done shows with our Partners in which I would visit and sign Spiritiles for collectors who attended, but when our first son was born, they became less and less frequent. Equally, we were then all stuck at home for a while due to the pandemic, so travel was severely diminished over regulations. So, the short answer is, it’s always a possibility. Additionally, it’s a great reason to have the opportunity to meet with collectors from all over the country!

TCS: What do you say are the best and worst parts of being an artist?

HL: The best thing is being able to see the smile and joy that I can bring to collectors. Seeing their personal connection to Spiritiles is exactly why I wanted to create them in the first place.

The worst thing is perfectionism. In every Spiritile, I can always see just one more week one more color change. I always feel just one more thing could have made it just a little tiny bit better. I don’t know when to stop getting lost in the trees for the forest so it’s necessary to have a team that tells me to step back and take a view from further out.

TCS: Every artist has at least one important tool that they can’t live without, so what’s the most indispensable item in your studio?

HL: The people. The team I work with makes everything possible that you see at Houston Llew!

TCS: What advice do you have for young artists who want to make a living through their art?

HL: My advice for young artists is for them to go to business school and study business.

About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Since 2012, Francesco Vincenzo Iacono has served as the President and CEO of The Creative Spotlight, the ultimate destination for unearthing a wealth of undiscovered musical talent, reading exciting interviews, releasing new music and sharing exclusive videos.

Every good story needs a good storyteller. And, The Creative Spotlight has truly provided a quality forum for revealing those great stories. Through the years, the online publication has featured national and local musicians such as Ash Costello from New Years Day, Williams Honor, Stacey David Blades, Screaming For Silence, Ages Apart, Roxy Petrucci, Peter Beckett, We The Kings, Everything Falls, Rod Black, Derek Crider, Daniel Mason Band, The Rockin’ Krolik, Michelle Leigh, Jessie G., Karen Mansfield and Hillbilly Vegas.

Additionally, The Creative Spotlight has also focused on historic Pennsylvania-based paranormal venues such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Paranormal investigator Kitsie Duncan, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice, the Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride, well-known actors and actresses, published authors, professional artists, local businesses, consultants, trainers, speakers and more…

Francesco earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.

Sep 5 2022

Jeff Tomrell – Magical Mystery Doors

Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if members of The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors joined forces to create one incredible supergroup? Introducing Magical Mystery Doors, a tribute act that blends and layers the music of these three legendary bands to create something new and unique for music fans everywhere.

For those attending a Magical Mystery Doors performance, they can expect to hear timeless classics from each of these iconic bands. These are all incredible songs we all know, these songs we all love, and these songs we sing to at the top of our lungs!

Throughout the show, Magical Mystery Doors combines some of these classic compositions in ways that leave the audience both surprised and delighted. The melody from The Doors’ “Hello, I Love You” laying atop Led Zeppelin’s “Misty Mountain Hop.” The pounding beat of Zep’s “When The Levee Breaks” coupled with the serene strumming of The Beatles’ “Dear Prudence.” Equally, Magical Mystery Doors enhances the audience experience with a captivating visual presentation including modern video screens and a stunning array of lighting which truly makes the performance come to life.

In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, we caught up with Jeff Tomrell from the Magical Mystery Doors Tribute band and we asked him a few questions about his musical influences, his career in a tribute band, their set list as well as their past and upcoming performances.

Q&A Session

The Creative Spotlight: At what age did you become interested in music? And, who or what inspired you to pursue a career as a musician?

Jeff Tomrell: I started playing the piano at the age of 6. Early on, my father was my biggest influence. I stood at the edge of our piano and watched him play. I tried to add parts to the songs that he was playing before I really knew what I was doing. Beyond that, my mother always pushed me to perform in public. Anytime we saw a piano, she sat me down and I started playing. The reaction people gave me following my performances made me feel good. This is where my desire to perform began.

Magical Mystery Doors

TCS: Can you share with us how you decided on the band name?

JT: This band is a hybrid tribute to The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors. Our original name was going to be “Beatles On Led Doors” but it just didn’t feel exciting enough. So, one night, I sat down with a notebook and just started writing down anything to do with these acts. Song names, album titles, members, etc. After an hour or two, I realized that Zeppelin had an album named “In Through The Out Door.” That obviously could work with “The Doors.” And then I saw “Magical Mystery Tour.” Putting all of that together, the name was going to be “In Through the Magical Mystery Doors,” but that just felt too long. We landed on Magical Mystery Doors and figured it was good enough!

TCS: Can you introduce us to the Magical Mystery Doors lineup?

JT: The band lineup consists of:

Vinny DeRenzis (Lead Vocalist)
Jeff Tomrell (Producer/Keys)
Brendan Marro (Guitar)
Greg Reigle (Bass)
Mike Intelisano (Drums)

TCS: So how long has the tribute band been playing together and how did you get started?

JT: The idea for this band started in 2018. Before we played our first show in April of 2019, we worked on the concept for 14 months. All members were currently playing full-time in other acts, so we could only do a few shows here and there. Our plan was to really push forward in 2020….and then…well, you know what happened. All progress was halted. We lost a few members in this period as well. It was such a difficult time. But we made it through and here we are today.

TCS: Why do you think tribute bands have become so prominent within the last couple of decades?

JT: People enjoy listening to bands and songs from their past. It brings back a lot of memories. Unfortunately, you can’t see these three legendary acts perform anymore. Honestly, most people have never seen them perform live. So, tribute acts can bring a piece of that nostalgia back to life.

TCS: What do you feel sets Magical Mystery Doors apart from other tribute bands?

JT: Truthfully, many things set us apart from other similar tribute bands. We put a lot of time, effort, and money into our visual display. Our versatility as musicians is another key factor. You’ll see many, many instrument switches throughout the show. But the main thing is our arrangements. We’re taking songs from 50-60 years ago and doing something new and different with them. It’s the surprise factor of our show that really makes it special.

TCS: Have you ever met any of the band members from one of the three bands? If yes, please explain to us where you met and how did that encounter go?

JT: Unfortunately, I have not had that privilege. My mom was once at an award ceremony for Ringo Starr from The Beatles a few years ago. That’s the closest I’ve gotten!

TCS: What’s the hardest aspect of re-creating a live show for The Beatles, The Doors, and Led Zeppelin?

JT: The hardest part WOULD BE nailing the vocals, but when you’re in a band with Vinny, that part becomes really easy!

Vinny from Magical Mystery Doors

TCS: What are the most requested songs from those bands at your shows?

JT: At our shows, people always want to hear more Led Zeppelin. Honestly, I think it’s because Vinny does such a great job with those Robert Plant’s challenging vocals.

TCS: Of the songs that Magical Mystery Doors plays, which are your most and least favorite? Additionally, is there a song that you and the band loves that is not included in the set.

JT: Honestly, this changes on a weekly basis. Lately I’ve been enjoying “Riders On The Storm” from The Doors. But other times, it’s “Ramble On” by Led Zeppelin. I think it ultimately depends on the crowd’s reaction sometimes. If people are smiling, we’re having a good time. As for song’s not included in the set, we are always working on new arrangements now. We have a few lined up that we believe the crowd will LOVE.

TCS: Annually, how many gigs does the band play and which venues are among your favorites?

JT: As I mentioned earlier, we’re still in a building phase. However, our recent performances at the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, NJ, have been very, very special and meant a lot to us. We would play there any time. The staff and everyone involved has been fantastic to work with.

TCS: Could you tell us about any strange experiences you’ve had while playing live?

JT: We haven’t really experienced anything too strange just yet. Maybe we’ll go with one of Jim Morrison’s classic songs with The Doors when he says, “People Are Strange.”

TCS: What advice do you have for new tribute bands trying to get established?

JT: Do something different. Do something unique. The tribute market is completely saturated right now. Seemingly every band has a tribute. Therefore, you must do something that will get people talking. You can’t do the same set as other tribute acts and expect it to succeed.

TCS: What’s the future look like for the Magical Mystery Doors tribute band?

JT: The future looks bright. There is a lot of excitement surrounding this band now. We feel like we’re ready to “Break On Through (To The Other Side).”

To stay connected, please join us on the following:

Magical Mystery Doors Website
Magical Mystery Doors Facebook
Magical Mystery Doors Instagram
Magical Mystery Doors Twitter
Magical Mystery Doors YouTube

About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Additionally, The Creative Spotlight has also focused on historic Pennsylvania-based paranormal venues such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Paranormal investigator Kitsie Duncan, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice, the Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride, well-known actors and actresses, published authors, professional artists, local businesses, consultants, trainers, speakers and more…

Francesco earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.

Jan 31 2022

Michael Mogan – eBeach Wagon

Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Michael Mogan is a well-rounded Professional Engineer (PE) licensed in both the states of Pennsylvania and Delaware. During his career, Michael has specialized in highway engineer design and project management. Mr. Mogan has had experience with exposure to many disciplines including traffic, structures, survey, right-of-way, utility coordination, drainage, stormwater management, erosion control, environmental clearance, public involvement, highway lighting, and much more.

Michael has successfully led roadway design efforts from conceptual plans through construction services for many different types of facilities from rural local roads to limited access interstate highways. Mr. Mogan has delivered projects for clients including PennDOT, DelDOT, Montgomery County, Amtrak, and SEPTA.

Michael’s interest in product design started as a child tinkering and building various contraptions in his family’s garage. His father was a tin knocker who had a variety of tools. He started showing his son the ropes at a young age. It started in Cub Scouts where they built the sharpest looking pine wood derby car. As Mr. Mogan got older, he grew from his father’s assistant to developing creations of his own. His first prototype, that would be patented over 25 years later, was developed in that very garage. In high school, Michael gained experience in mechanical drawing as well as computer aided drafting (CAD). It turned out he had a knack for laying things out just like his old man. This accelerated the development of his skills and fueled his creative fire.

Michael initiated the building of his electric beach wagon after he and his wife, and their yorkie, experienced some difficulties carrying their gear and supplies across the sandy beach. Later, after the birth of their son, trips to the beach became more difficult as the weight and gear increased. What was supposed to be a fun, stress-free day, began and concluded with stress and angst trying to transport the necessary gear. It was then that he began researching electric beach wagons. The invention already existed at the time, but there was significant room for improvement in the design.

In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, we caught up with Michael Mogan where we talked about his work as a PE, his educational background, his latest creation known as e-Beach Wagon, his work with Gembah in designing the wagon, his strategic marketing and advertising plan, and his advice for young entrepreneurs.

Q&A Session

The Creative Spotlight: What made you decide to set up a business model like e-Beach Wagon and embark on your career choice as an entrepreneur?

Michael Mogan: I’ve come up with decent ideas in the past, but I’ve only seriously pursued a few. This idea solves a common problem, appeals to a broader market, and applies to parents trying to simplify life with kids. People will do almost anything to make raising kids easier.

When doing research, we found there was only one competitor in this space. We didn’t know about the product until we dug deep, so we felt by doing a better job with the marketing, we could boost sales easily. Also, we felt the price point of the competition was too high and we could develop a better, less expensive alternative.

It also helped that I received my wife’s blessing to pursue this opportunity. Tara is a marketing expert, so with her support, we can make this thing take off. We make a good team. I’m the engineer that determines the design and logistics, and she’s the marketing guru that gets the word out there.

TCS: For the benefit of those who are not familiar with Michael Mogan, please share with us your education, certifications, training, and/or additional qualifications that you possess?

MM: I graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 2001. Since then, I’ve been working in the transportation industry as a highway engineer, project manager, and business line manager. I am a licensed professional engineer in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Civil engineering is not related to product development; however, some skills are transferrable, like how to read plans and understanding facets of design like computer-aided drafting (CAD).

I’ve had lots of ideas throughout my life and have always wanted to develop a successful product. I was recently successful in obtaining a utility patent for a new beverage can insulator. Although it has not paid off financially yet, I learned quite a bit about the patent process that is applicable for e-Beach Wagon. I was also exposed to manufacturing overseas and logistics to get the product delivered.

I also watch quite a bit of Shark Tank, which is educational. I understand what investors are looking for and what it takes to make a product a success. Translating that into a reality is where the challenge lies, which is what we are perfecting now.

TCS: Describe for us what you think makes e-Beach Wagon the best beach wagon on the market?

MM: One obvious thing that sets us apart from most other wagons is that it’s a self-propelled wagon powered by a 24-volt motor. You press down on the thumb throttle and the wagon moves itself, so it’s effortless to pull over 300 pounds of gear across the sand. There is only one other known competitor that provides a similar product called the SandHopper. These types of wagons are in a league of their own and are intended for the avid beachgoers that regularly carry lots of gear to the beach. If you’ve pulled a regular wagon or beach cart, you know the feeling of dragging your gear across the thick sand. Once you try e-Beach Wagon, you’ll never want to go back to the old wagon.

When compared to the SandHopper, e-Beach Wagon is clearly the better choice. e-Beach Wagon has eight built-in pole holders for your beach umbrella, flagpole, or fishing rods. SandHopper charges an additional $100 for one pole holder accessory. e-Beach Wagon comes with tall railings and dual USB charging ports standard. SandHopper charges an additional $200 for tall railings and $100 additional for USB charging ports. e-Beach Wagon has a removable plastic wagon bed for easy cleaning; SandHopper doesn’t. e-Beach Wagon has an enclosed electrical and mechanical compartment; SandHopper doesn’t. For the price of a SandHopper with all the features that come standard on e-Beach Wagon, you’ll save over $600 with us. Plus, compare the look of the two wagons and decide for yourself which is the more attractive design. We think it’s pretty clear.

TCS: Tell us a little about how you decided to hire Gembah in November of 2020 and describe how they specifically help you with e-Beach Wagon?

MM: We solicited about five product development companies to help us through the process. While Gembah was not the least expensive, they provided the best proposal that laid out all the steps of the design process, and their price included all design phases. Other companies only provided the preliminary design costs, so the final design was a big unknown. They clearly understood the product I was trying to develop and had good thoughts on how to complete a quality design cost-effectively.

Gembah is a product development company that specializes in product sourcing and manufacturing oversight. They enlisted the support of Spline Product Development that led to the actual design of the wagon. We had a kick-off meeting where I shared my ideas on the functionality of the wagon and Spline came up with a great-looking design that accomplished everything we needed. Spline then created the prototype, which is the wagon that you see in all the marketing materials.

Gembah then sent a request for proposals out to their network of manufacturers overseas to bid on the manufacturing of the product. Gembah is currently helping us through the sampling phase to have a factory produce a “golden sample”, which is the perfect sample that will be duplicated by the factory in mass production. Gembah will provide quality assurance and quality control during manufacturing to ensure the factory delivers a quality product. They are also able to assist with other steps along the way like logistics if needed.

TCS: Tell us how the beach wagon is ideal for young family excursions?

MM: Families with young children carry a lot of gear and the kids are just too young to pitch in. Most manual carts and wagons can’t carry everything that you need on the beach, or to the park, or at the zoo. e-Beach Wagon is great for wherever you take the kids. It not only carries your gear, but the kids love riding in it too. The wagon works on any surface, so while it’s great through the thick sand, it’s just as good over grass, blacktop, gravel, dirt, mud, etc.

TCS: When someone places an e-Beach Wagon order what is the expected turnaround time?

MM: We are currently accepting pre-sale deposits on our website at e-BeachWagon.com. Special offers will be provided to those who sign up for the mailing list. Wagons will be shipped in the order the deposits were received. We are still in the process of confirming the shipping schedule; however, we are expecting the first container to arrive in May 2022. Status updates will be provided to customers who order a wagon, and anyone can request a refund at any time. However, you will lose your place in line if you request a deposit refund. Since we will have limited inventory initially, we anticipate it will take a little while for the supply to catch up to the demand. The sooner you make a deposit, the sooner you will receive your wagon. It’s worth the wait!

TCS: With the max weight capacity of e-Beach Wagon holding over 300 pounds, the uses for the beach wagon are endless. What feedback have you received from customers?

MM: We haven’t delivered any wagons yet, but we have received lots of positive feedback from people on the beach that have seen e-Beach Wagon. Many people notice the cool-looking wagon and ask where we got it. When we tell them it’s our prototype and it’s electric, they are shocked. Most people have never seen an electric beach wagon before. When we explain the features, they’re very interested in purchasing one for themselves. Some people have even made good suggestions for different uses or accessories. For instance, someone recommended providing a chair attachment to transport mobility-impaired people. This will be one of the first accessories we will work on once we get the product out there. There are countless accessories we can provide to improve the beach experience for different folks. We are looking forward to the opportunity to make that happen.

TCS: I love the fact that the battery-charged wagon offers you a way to keep your electronics charged while out on the sand. How did you come up with such an awesome idea?

MM: This was one of the first features we discussed with the product development team. It comes standard on our wagon. Have you ever been to the beach and your phone or speaker dies? We have and that’s why we wanted the capability to charge your devices. The wagon comes with two 12-volt, 22 amp-hour sealed lead-acid batteries. The 22 amp-hour is like the Energizer Bunny on steroids. We’ve run that wagon up and down the beach for miles and have yet to kill the batteries in one charge. There is plenty of juice in those batteries to charge lots of devices. We even bought a battery-powered blender to make frozen drinks on the beach. So, we can keep the drinks flowing thanks to the wagon’s battery power. The applications are endless.

TCS: Can you briefly describe e-Beach Wagon’s strategic marketing and advertising plan?

MM: Right now, our focus is getting the word out. Build the brand and increase awareness. We know our demographic. We know which beach towns to target. And we know which marketing channels to leverage. Not only are we marketing to consumers but also businesses that rent beach equipment, as well as ocean-front resorts and hotels. We’ve currently launched grassroots initiatives such as door hangers, word-of-mouth referrals through community groups, and social media promotions. Digital initiatives are being developed as well.

To stay connected, please join us on the following:

TCS: Do you have a personal or professional mantra? If so, what meaning does it have for you, and how does it apply to your life choices?

MM: For sure, “Work smarter, not harder.” I’m always looking for ways to get things done with less work. I have a couple of DIY YouTube videos that provide a better way of doing things. My “How to Demo a Mud Wall” video (https://youtu.be/tI9LbrEUM1c) has saved many headaches. I enjoy problem-solving. If there’s a better way to get something done, I’ll try figuring it out. That’s one thing that makes me a good engineer. I wasn’t the first one to develop an electric beach wagon, but I developed a better product.

TCS: As an entrepreneur, what’s your single greatest achievement?

MM: One of my greatest achievements as an entrepreneur was getting a utility patent for CustACan, my beverage can insulator invention that slides over the top of a can and covers the entire can label. I came up with the idea about 25 years ago but didn’t start pursuing it until 2015. I originally tried submitting my own patent application. When the patent office reviewed the application, they recommended that I get the help of a patent attorney, so I let that application expire and enlisted the help of a patent attorney. Six years after I began the process, I was issued a utility patent for my invention. It was a learning process, but my persistence paid off.

TCS: What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs?

MM: Be persistent, never give up on your dreams, and partner with others that are good at what you’re not. I went to school to be a Civil Engineer and I’ve been doing highway design for over 20 years. I was never totally happy because my creative urge was never satisfied. I wanted to use my creativity to design a product that was helpful to many people. I’ve tried in the past to design a product that didn’t take off. I could have given up and stuck with civil engineering, but I persisted and kept working toward my dream. Eventually, I came up with another great idea and worked hard to make that a reality. Starting a company while working a full-time job with two kids isn’t easy. If you’re persistent and don’t give up, it will happen.

Partnering with others that are good at what you’re not is extremely important in being successful. You’re not going to be able to do everything yourself. I came up with a good idea, but I couldn’t have completed the detailed design and then sourced the manufacturers to build it. I partnered with Gembah, and they enlisted Spline Product Development to complete the detailed design. Gembah is overseeing the sourcing and manufacturing so that I receive a quality product ready to distribute to my customers. Thankfully I married a very talented marketing guru, so Tara is leading the marketing and doing a great job getting the word out. I couldn’t do these things on my own, so it’s necessary to partner with others to reach your dreams.

About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Additionally, The Creative Spotlight has also focused on historic Pennsylvania-based paranormal venues such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Paranormal investigator Kitsie Duncan, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice, the Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride, well-known actors and actresses, published authors, professional artists, local businesses, consultants, trainers, speakers and more…

Francesco earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.

Aug 1 2021

Karl Dietel – We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute

Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Have you ever wanted to experience a live performance featuring legendary Billy Joel, the masterful musician, singer-songwriter and composer from New York City? If so, then the We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute band, based in the Manhattan, NY, Philadelphia, PA and New Jersey area, featuring Karl Dietel is a must-see experience for you!

We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute is a band that was born out of a sincere respect, admiration, and love of Billy Joel and his incredible and timeless music. As fans, they started off playing a few shows in which they played The Stranger album from start to finish. As musicians, the band feels passionately about performing Billy Joel’s music with authenticity and integrity.

We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute, a collection of seasoned musicians and performers experienced in both national and international music communities, is committed to providing all the showmanship, power and adrenaline of a true Billy Joel concert while always staying true to the music of his unforgettable songs.

In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, we caught up with Karl Dietel from the We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute band and we asked him a few questions about his musical influences, his career in a tribute band, their set list as well as their past and upcoming performances.

Q&A Session

The Creative Spotlight: At what age did you become interested in music? And, who or what inspired you to pursue a career as a musician?

Karl Dietel: I started piano lessons when I was 6 years old. My grandmother’s piano was in our living room, and Dad decided to start my older brother and I on lessons because we were banging on it too much. I took lessons until I was 16, when I learned ear training in a high school AP Music Theory class.

TCS: Did you think early on that you sounded like Billy Joel or was it something that you discovered over time?

KD: Hmmm. As a singer, it did take some time. In fact, when we started, we just played 9 songs off The Stranger for fun, so I sang everything in my own voice. It wasn’t until the band started getting some recognition that we decided to try to sound a little more like the records. As a piano player, I had been playing his songs for so long, particularly in my restaurant piano gigs, that it wasn’t much of a stretch to play an entire set of his music in his style.

TCS: Can you introduce us to the We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute lineup?

KD: Perry Andrews plays tenor, alto and soprano sax, plus flute and piccolo, with a side of rhythm guitar and percussion. He brings a jazz sensibility to our show and always plays exactly what the song needs at any given moment. We worked in the same high school for a number of years, I remember we huddled around the concert piano during one lunch block and worked out our arrangement for “Scenes From an Italian Restaurant.” Derek Davodowich plays a tasty, complimentary guitar and has the perfect feel for this music. He did some touring out of Nashville after he graduated college, and I met him through a mutual friend back when I played keyboards for Sean Kelly and The Samples. Luke Kessel is a road dog of a bass player, he’s played in Europe and China and also toured the U.S. with a few blues musicians. Andy Janowiak was our original drummer who left to do some recording with the late Bernie Worrell in his home studio, but has now been able to rejoin the tribute. It’s a tight band with many years of experience and camaraderie!

TCS: So how long has We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute been playing together and how did you get started?

KD: We started off playing a few shows in which we played The Stranger album from start to finish. That had been a pet project of mine, just to say we did it. We kept getting asked back, I think we played it three different afternoons at our local home base, it was really going over, when some other venues asked us to play an entire night at their places. After we accepted the new dates, we realized we had to learn two more sets of Billy Joel’s music!

TCS: Why do you think tribute bands have become so prominent within the last couple of decades?

KD: I’m not sure, to be honest with you. People have been trying to figure this out. I could go into a long speech about the decline of popular music, particularly in terms of live performance, but I’ll just say that I think the music to which tribute is being paid reminds people of simpler, better or even more innocent times of their lives. So, they gravitate towards that. Also, certain albums and sounds and genres are becoming the new classical music, in that specific bodies of work by artists are being presented in full much like classical-era symphonies and operas have been presented in full for centuries. It will be interesting to see how long the tribute scene continues!

TCS: What do you feel sets We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute apart from other Billy Joel tribute bands?

KD: One of our strengths lies in the fact that we’ve had the same lineup since the beginning. Although we rotated two drummers off and on, we have the same four people out front every show. It’s comforting to the fans to see Perry on one side and Luke on the other. Having the same people play night after night really adds to the musical dynamic, particularly as we stretch out and explore a few of these endings of certain songs to shake things up a bit. We have that luxury because we know how each other plays and reacts to musical situations. And, that adds to the fun of the overall show.

TCS: What’s the hardest aspect of re-creating a Billy Joel live show?

KD: If we’re doing it right, it’s all fairly exhausting! Remembering all the lyrics is a challenge in and of itself, not to mention the chord progressions. As musicians, we always push each other on stage, we don’t cut corners or play it too safe. I’m drained at the end of a good night. Of course, that’s the way it should be.

TCS: Have you ever met Billy Joel? If yes, please explain to us where you met and how did that encounter go?

KD: I have never met him, no. I’m only two or three degrees away, in some circles, but I’ve never pushed the issue. I wonder what I’d say.

TCS: What are the most requested Billy Joel songs at your shows?

KD: A woman yelled at me once for not playing “Piano Man.” Shook her finger at me and raised her voice! Truth is, we were outside and ran up against an unexpected curfew, so we ran out of time. She wasn’t happy about it. “Vienna” is one request that surprises me, usually coming from younger fans. Different people gravitate towards different songs. “Goodnight Saigon,” for example.

TCS: Of the songs that We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute plays from Bill Joel’s extensive library which are your most and least favorite? Equally, is there a song from him you or the band loves that is not included in the set? If yes, then why.

KD: I enjoy watching the crowd sing along. Sometimes, they play air drums, it’s a nice connection. As a musician, I enjoy playing the songs that give the band members a chance to stretch out. Perry can play his piccolo on “Rosalinda’s Eyes” and he plays a great flute line on “Get it Right the First Time.” Luke’s walking bass line on “Zanzibar” is always amazing. I’ve been know to leave Derek hanging because I have such a good time listening to his guitar playing! He wanders over to the keyboard, never missing a note of his solo, and gives me the nod that says, ‘Anytime you want to end the song, go ahead…’ and it’s all good, fun, in-the-moment playing. I also like hearing the 3-part harmonies in “My Life” and “Don’t Ask Me Why.” We have a 5-part harmony arrangement for “All About Soul.” That’s fun for us. “Prelude / Angry Young Man” is both my most favorite and least favorite song to play 🙂 “Root Beer Rag” is always a throw down, we love to take that one out when the time is right.

TCS: How many gigs does the We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute band play annually and what and where are among your favorite venues?

KD: We’ve been playing quite a bit these days, eight or ten shows a month, but that will slow down slightly during the colder months. We didn’t play much last year, for obvious reasons. Summer is always the busiest time, and we’ve picked up a few private parties recently, and two weddings, I believe, for 2022. As far as venues go, we can turn any room into a party. We originally cut our teeth in Pattenburg House in Asbury, NJ out in Hunterdon County, so that’s significant to our history. Recently, we’ve had some great shows at Brook Arts Center in Bound Brook, NJ and then Musikfest in Bethlehem, PA is something we look forward to every year.

TCS: What is the most interesting We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute road story?

KD: Well… there was a night when the band was setting up at two different venues…

TCS: What advice do you have for new tribute bands trying to get established?

KD: Good question. We sort of backed up into this, based on playing The Stranger album. What I always tell any bands is that they should take it seriously, but not too seriously. And that your overall sound, whatever it may be, benefits from having a strong musical foundation. Practice. Get your metronome out. Keep at it. And, don’t lose faith.

TCS: What’s the future look like for We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute?

KD: I don’t like to look too far into things, but we’ll have to pick a steady booking agent soon. We’re reaching a larger audience now, and that is allowing us to play in larger venues.

To stay connected, please join us on the following:

We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute Website
We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute Facebook
We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute Instagram
We May Be Right: Billy Joel Tribute YouTube

About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Additionally, The Creative Spotlight has also focused on historic Pennsylvania-based paranormal venues such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Paranormal investigator Kitsie Duncan, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice, the Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride, well-known actors and actresses, published authors, professional artists, local businesses, consultants, trainers, speakers and more…

Francesco earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.

Apr 8 2021

Ash Costello – New Years Day

Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Gifted with theatrics, vocal chops and fashion — Ash Costello, the frontwoman from the Orange County California-based band New Years Day, is one of the most prominent rock singers of the American music industry. As the lead vocalist of the band, she is truly the driving force behind their national and international success.

In the beginning, Costello teamed up with lead guitarist Adam Lohrbach and guitarist/keyboardist Keith Drover and they worked on writing a few songs. Dubbing themselves as New Years Day, the group started promoting themselves on the then popular social media networking site, MySpace and soon gained relevance and prominence. Additionally, the band was also featured on the MySpace Records, Volume 1 compilation CD and on the video game soundtrack for Saints Row.

Subsequently, the band inked a deal with TVT Records and released their first self-titled EP entitled Razor in 2006. From there, the band released several studio albums including My Dear in 2007 and Victim to Villain in 2013, which featured their breakout single “Angel Eyes.” Apart from releasing albums, the band also landed several prestigious tours. First, they were a prominent member of the 2010 Vans Warped Tour. In 2013, New Years Day performed at Warped Tour with Andrew Velasquez and the rest of Crown the Empire, a metalcore from Dallas, Texas. Then, in 2015 Costello and her band took the biggest leap in their career, when they became the headliner on the summer’s Vans Warped Tour.

Adding to their already impressive achievements, Malevolence their third full-length studio album, which was released in 2015, became a major hit. It debuted in the Top 10 of the Billboard rock chart and landed at No. 45 on the Billboard 200. In 2018, New Years Day released the Diary of a Creep EP and spent a great deal of time out on the road touring with In This Moment and Halestorm. Then in 2019, they released Unbreakable, which featured hits like “Come for Me,” “Shut Up” and “Skeletons.” Loudwire, an online magazine, named the album one of the 50 best rock albums of 2019.

In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, we caught up with Ash Costello from New Years Day where we talked about her musical influences, her songwriting and recording process, her on and off-stage persona, her love for Horror movies, her memorable night with Marilyn Manson as well as her short and long-term future plans.

Q&A Session

The Creative Spotlight: At what age did you first realize that you wanted to be a musician? Was there a first instrument that you learned how to play?

Ash Costelllo: I actually knew I wanted to be a singer at a really, really young age. Probably like four or five. I started doing musical theater when I was really young, like really, really young. But I didn’t know what it meant to be in a band until high school when I kind of joined a band by accident. My high school ska band needed a singer and saw me singing in a high school play and asked if I wanted to sing in a ska band and that’s how I started doing that and just never quit. I started writing my first song when I was probably around ten or eleven years old, but I never really played any instruments. I was always a lyricist and songwriter, though.

TCS: That’s great. The vocal is definitely one of the key instruments in the band. So, what famous musical artists and/or bands were among your early influences and describe for us how they impacted and/or shaped your musical style?

AC: Well, you know, I’ve been doing music, writing music and a fan of music from a very young age, so like most people as we mature and grow our tastes change, but early on I was highly influenced by Gwen Stefani and No Doubt. That was my first major introduction to what being a female rocker would be like.

New Years Day Ash Costello

TCS: How would you describe New Years Day’s overall sound and musical genre? And, can you introduce us to the band line-up?

AC: Employing an opulent mix of spirited pop-punk and flamboyant, goth-tinged stadium rock, New Years Day invokes the dark pageantry of artists like Evanescence, Garbage, Alkaline Trio and Motionless in White.

The band lineup consists of:

Ash Costello – Lead Vocals
Nikki Misery – Lead Guitar
Jeremy Valentyne – Rhythm Guitar
Brandon Wolfe – Bassist
Tommy Rockoff – Drums

TCS: For the benefit of those who may not be too familiar with Ashley Costello or your musical career with New Years Day, please describe for us how you started out from Anaheim, California and eventually ended up being this band’s lead singer?

AC: Well, I was in a couple bands before New Year’s Day began. You know, when one band or one sound kind of ran its course we’d start another band. So, I was in a previous band called Face the Fact, which was like a whole 80s new wave and our representative from Chrysalis Music Group who have, like, Siouxsie and the Banshees and Smashing Pumpkins and a lot of my favorite bands at the time happened to be at one of my shows and asked to take a meeting with me almost immediately and I got signed pretty quickly as a solo artist.

After that, I wrote a couple songs with songwriters, some of them being Pete Wentz and Patrick Stump from Fall Out Boy and Justin Pierre from Motion City Soundtrack and Adam Lazzara from Taking Back Sunday and it was kind of this experiment of what if we did a girl solo artist and her songs are written by more prominent rock artists at the time. And so, I played by the rules, I did what they wanted for, you know, a couple tries and then I wrote my own music and kind of planted it on the desk and said what if it was a band. And I turned in our first song called “Ready Aim Misfire” and after they listened to it, they said, “You know what, do whatever you want. Go get band members, make it a rock band and pick a name.” And that’s how New Year’s Day got started.

TCS: How would you describe your on-stage personality and how is it both similar and different from your off-stage persona?

AC: Well, I think if you’re a genuine artist then you’re good at pulling elements of who you are and putting it out on stage even if it is delivered in very subtle ways. You know, it doesn’t have to be very obvious. I’m a big horror movie fan, a big Halloween fan, a big haunted house fan and a big fan of goth and alternative subcultures and it just weaves naturally into the art. How I dress on stage and how the whole band dresses on stage works with New Year’s Day because it isn’t contrived. In fact, it’s very genuine and very natural. The boys in the band get asked a lot of questions concerning makeup, including, “so, was it tough when Ashley, like, made you guys wear makeup?” And that’s all those guys, like that’s all them. They do their own makeup, that’s what they want to do. I’ve actually tried to stop them from wearing makeup, but that’s what they want to do, and I think it’s why New Year’s Day really stands out from a lot of other bands of our genre because it’s very, very natural and very genuine.

TCS: How would you describe your overall songwriting style?

AC: Um, gosh, I have a love-hate relationship with songwriting. I truly love writing music and writing lyrics, I really do, but I also, like most artists my own worst critic and I’m very self-deprecating and I’m very hard on myself. So, the final product you hear took a lot of time and effort in singing and a lot of good moments and a lot of bad moments to get to that point where it’s even listenable and I feel good about even releasing it out to the world for everyone else to hear. So, my style of songwriting is just a lot of trial and error and a lot of time. When I’m songwriting mode I’m songwriting seven to eight hours a day seven days a week and so last record I spent about a year on and off doing that and that’s all I did. So, I think the hitting my head against the wall a lot is my major songwriting style, if that makes sense.

TCS: Personally, one of my favorite tracks off your Unbreakable album is a song called “Come For Me” which you co-wrote. Can you share with us some of the background behind your hit and the video?

AC: Okay! I’m actually really proud of the song “Come For Me.” From all of the New Years Day songs that track means the most to me. I had the most say in it because, I don’t want to say it wasn’t a joke, we were just playing around not in a joking way, we just weren’t really thinking about trying to make it anything specific. We were just having fun. And my major inspiration for that song was the song “Hella Good” by No Doubt which is one repeated riff throughout the entire song. So, I thought why doesn’t New Year’s Day have a song where it’s one riff that just repeats the whole time, but maybe the dynamic shifts from verse to chorus to intro to re-intro. So, we made our own version of that which is the initial riff you hear, and I just wanted a fun, heavy dance song like Hella Good. But that’s how “Come For Me” was born.

And then the music video, I love making music videos because I get to play director and producer, and I’m a big movie fan. I’m a big cinephile! So, I wanted to be Quentin Tarantino for a day. So, the music video is a nod to From Dusk Till Dawn, Pulp Fiction, Planet Terror, etc. Even though I know that Quentin Tarantino only directed some of those and produced others, but anything Quentin Tarantino is related in I wanted a strong influence from that. And the character that I play in the music video was heavily based off of Santanico Pandemonium portrayed by Salma Hayek in From Dusk Till Dawn.

TCS: Not being a performer myself, I can’t imagine what it felt like to walk out on the stage for the very first time. Could you tell us about that experience and is it much easier for you today?

AC: There’s really not a big difference actually. I still get really nervous and I still kind of don’t know what I’m doing. Every time I get on stage I just kind of hope for the best but I still get nervous. So, there’s really not a big difference except I have learned a lot. I feel like I learned how to play with the audience and connect with the audience more as I go along, but I’m still pretty much the same.

TCS: Exactly, we learn from each of those experiences and take it to the next one. Over the years, I’ve interviewed a lot of singers and they’ve expressed how they really like being on stage and in the spotlight while performing as it brings out their inner personality which may not have otherwise in other social settings. I don’t know if that happens for you too?

AC: It’s really different every time. Sometimes I love being on stage, but just like someone who loves what they do they’re going to have their bad days, too. There’s some days where I walk off stage and I’m like, “well, that fuckin’ sucked.” And then there’s other moments when I walk off stage and say, “well, that was the best moment of my life.” So, you know, it’s like everything else. You just try and do your best.

TCS: Tell us about the background of your hit single “Angel Eyes” from the 2013 release Victim To Villain as well as your experience in working with Chris Motionless of Motionless In White on both the track and music video?

AC: The song “Angel Eyes” is about the classic internal battle between Good vs. Evil – with the devil on your shoulder while having that angel in your ear when you first meet someone new that you know is trouble, yet you just cannot help yourself.

I met Chris Motionless from Motionless In White during the 2010 Warped Tour, when we played on the same stage. We were the only two goth looking bands and quickly became friends. For the track “Angel Eyes,” we wanted to have a male vocalist perform with us and having Chris join us was a no brainer. We asked him, and he agreed.

When Chris came in to record vocals for the song, it really felt like the last puzzle piece had fallen perfectly into place. Upon laying down his first vocal track, I knew we had something brilliant on our hands. He was a dream to work with and in my opinion, sounds incredible on the song! About a year following the recording, I contacted Chris with a music video concept and once again he agreed to join us and together, we made something epic. “Angel Eyes” remains our most popular music video as well as most requested and streamed song too.

TCS: From a song writing, studio recording and accompanying music video perspective, can you share with us some of the details surrounding the single entitled “Shut Up” also from Unbreakable?

AC: At the time when I wrote “Shut Up,” I was going through some pretty heavy personal stuff. The song was co-written by Chrissy Costanza, frontwoman from Against The Current, and Scott Stevens who has produced such bands as Shinedown, Halestorm and American Authors. This marked the first ever song that Costanza has written away from her own band. From a recording perspective, “Shut Up” came together pretty easily and was completed within a day. The original version was very poppy and was heavily influenced by an artist called Kehlani.

When we recorded the song “Shut Up,” I knew right away what I wanted to do if we were ever to make a music video for the song. In fact, the idea came to me immediately. So, when “Shut Up” was chosen, I was thrilled because it meant that I’d finally get an opportunity to make my vision come to life, which was to recreate one of my favorite horror movies of all-time, American Psycho. Yes, it’s a homage to the 2000 Christian Bale-starring film, and actually features the original axe from the movie. The song’s bloody music video was directed by Galileo Mondol (e.g., Raging Nation Films) and stars Sirius XM’s Jose Mangin.

TCS: Could you share with us one of the strangest experiences you’ve had during the course of your touring career and what you learned from it?

AC: During my musical career, I’ve had so many strange experiences. Someday, I swear that I’m going to write a book. The first encounter that comes to mind is when we were touring with Marilyn Manson. While Manson sang “The Dope Show,” a classic song from his 1998 album Mechanical Animals, he held my hand and together we walked around the entire stage. Even stranger was that I was wearing a t-shirt that said, “Marilyn Manson Is My Daddy!” He changed the lyrics to “I’m Not Your Daddy” as we walked the platform.

With Manson, you never really know what you are going to get. He might be in a very playful mood, like that night, or he could be in a standoffish mood so you kind of get a little nervous being around him. But, for me that was a special night. I felt like I had finally broken through and kind of bonded with him. Then unfortunately Paris, France was attacked, and the rest of our concert tour was cancelled.

TCS: If you weren’t in the music industry what would you see yourself doing instead?

AC: If I weren’t involved in the music industry, I could easily see myself doing something along the lines of set decoration or special effects for horror movies. Perhaps decorating haunted homes or anything with a Halloween-based theme.

TCS: Amid this pandemic, what does the short and long-term future look like for Ashley Costello and New Years Day?

AC: Once everything has been declared safe again, New Years Day will once again return to the song writing process and daily grind. Our short and long-term goals include recording new music, creating videos as well touring and playing for our loyal fans. Although we don’t have a planned release date for our new record, I am scheduled to start writing new music next month.

To stay connected, please join us on the following:

New Years Day Website
New Years Day Facebook
New Years Day Instagram
New Years Day Twitter
New Years Day YouTube

About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Additionally, The Creative Spotlight has also focused on historic Pennsylvania-based paranormal venues such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Paranormal investigator Kitsie Duncan, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice, the Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride, well-known actors and actresses, published authors, professional artists, local businesses, consultants, trainers, speakers and more…

Francesco earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.

Mar 20 2021

Tiffany Rice – Spirit Medium

Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Throughout the years, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice has always had a sense of “knowing”. Upon becoming a Reiki Master, a person who chooses to manifest the will of Divine energy here on Earth, Tiffany became aware of her senses and abilities increasing with each life event.

Being able to identify with fellow colleagues, Tiffany realized her gift of being a Medium was accelerating rapidly. At that time, she began to embrace this awareness and studied under her colleague and good friend (Spirit Sister), Maureen Hancock.

Today, Tiffany is a renowned Spirit Medium and former talk show host of Spirit Connections. She dedicates her life sharing her uplifting and enlightening gift with those that are going through various stages of grief.

Tiffany is highly intrigued by the paranormal and takes a very special interest in this field. She knows the paranormal is an extension of the Spirit World and finds this area captivating as it is still a continuation of our loved ones. Spirit simply chooses to have an uncanny connection to certain locations. The subject of paranormal activity spans over a wide range of topics and theories which she loves exploring!

In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, we caught up with Tiffany Rice and we talked about her work as an evidential spirit medium, her work on Kitsie Duncan’s new show Paranormal Crossroads, her partnership with Dune Jewelry, her volunteer work with Aruba Animal Shelter as well as her short and long-term aspirations.

Q&A Session

The Creative Spotlight: What is your earliest memory where you realized you were gifted as an evidential spirit medium and how old were you?

Tiffany Rice: I’ve always had a sense of “knowing”. I can remember having conversations with people and as I looked at them, I could see information pop up about them around them in my mind’s eye. It took me years to realize that it was spirits trying to come through with information. I thought I was just weird. I took a class that I actually teach now on how to open up your own intuition. That’s when it really hit me with the connection to spirit. It was then when I knew had to continue to provide validations, messages and healing.

TCS: For the benefit of those who are not familiar with Tiffany Rice or your specific profession, please share with us how you first started out and how you have cultivated your psychic abilities?

TR: I’m a Spirit Medium. That means I’m able to connect to your loved ones in spirit whether it is family, friends and even pets can come through. I started with becoming a Reiki Master/Teacher learning more of an understanding about energy. I started telling people about my readings and it spread quickly. I was giving my friends readings and then their friends readings. I would go to people’s homes and do a reading of their home. The local historical societies started to hear about me, so they would have me go to their locations. I was able to connect the emotional side to the factual side for them. I never said never to an opportunity of connecting to spirit. I had found my passion. The healing modality of being able to connect and bring peace of mind during grief is priceless.

TCS: How did you know being an evidential spirit medium was the right career path?

TR: That’s simple, I had no doubt.

TCS: Please describe for us the different types of readings that you offer? Additionally, can you provide any advice on what someone should do to prepare themselves for a reading?

TR: Mainly people will contact me for my Medium readings which is connecting you to your loved ones in spirit. I also offer intuitive readings as well with a focus on clarity on current situations. To prepare for any reading, be open to the information being provided. Take notes. I can’t stress that enough! There’s always so much information coming through that when receiving the information, we may forget. It’s great to come back to put the puzzle pieces together. Also, it doesn’t hurt to set your intentions on the person you want to connect with or the question you want more insight on. I always say it’s the information that you need to hear not the information you want to hear. Be open!

TCS: Besides readings, do you offer any other services?

TR: Yes, I also teach guided meditation sessions to help clients get back to the basics. Today, more and more people are looking to get back to feeling focused and grounded meditation helps bring one that sense of clarity. Additionally, I’ve also created workshops to help hone in on your intuition and align with your own empowerment in order to live your true authentic self.

TCS: In 2008, you investigated the legendary Lizzie Borden House in Fall River, Massachusetts along with members of the then paranormal investigative team named SPIES. What can you tell us about your experience, especially since it was your first paranormal-based investigation and how it impacted/changed your future?

TR: It was my first investigation alright. Go big or go home! I had a group of friends that would go to all different locations whether it was well-known or even residential. They brought me in as their Medium. This experience was my first overnight investigation. I definitely felt a presence in Andrew Borden’s room. I wasn’t scared it was enlightening to actually feel energy that heavy. Since then I’ve done multiple gallery readings at that location. I do feel like I have a connection with Lizbeth since being familiar with her energy all of these years.

TCS: Can you provide us with some highlights from your 2015 appearance at the Rhode Island Comic Con, where you moderated a Ghost Hunters and Ghost Facers panel?

TR: I love being a guest at Comic Cons all over. I was given the opportunity to host the paranormal panel in Rhode Island. It was fun. I love my Ghost Hunter/Ghost Nation family. I’ve known them for quite some time. Ghostfacers was based off of the show “Supernatural” so their take on the Q&A was a little different than the guys that actually do the “hunting”.

TCS: Can you elaborate on your collaboration with our mutual colleague and paranormal researcher Kitsie Duncan on her new show, Paranormal Crossroads?

TR: Kitsie and I have been friends for years. I actually gave her a reading in a hotel room at one of the Comic Cons. I consider her another one of my “Spirit Sisters”. We connected. That girl puts her expertise at work when it comes to knowing her paranormal stuff. I’ve helped her with opening her intuition and we would always talk about our own personal spiritual experiences. She’s done her share of film with Oddity Files, which I’ve helped on a couple of cases remotely. Knowing that spirit comes through regardless of being present in the room together we figured we would put it to the test. She asked me to help with a few of her cases through giving a reading or I would say putting the puzzle pieces together and it seems to mesh really well.

TCS: Can you share some details with us about your partnership with Dune Jewelry and the creation of the spiritual Cardinal Necklace?

TR: I love women supporting women. Dune Jewelry is owned by Holly Daniels Christensen a total no nonsense business woman who knows how powerful keeping the memories alive are. She also has a heart of an angel. That’s all we have is our own personal life experiences. She created experiential jewelry to help keep those memories alive. We collectively are working on multiple pieces of jewelry that are currently in production. They symbolize mind, body, spirit.

The first piece that came out was the cardinal. Why the cardinal? Well, our loved ones in spirit show us signs to let you know they are with us. The Cardinal being one of the most common signs that hold a place in your heart. People have shared that they filled their piece with sand from all over, abalone shells, even roses. It really is beautiful to see how they keep their own personal memory of their loved one alive.

TCS: Do you have a professional or personal mantra? If so, what meaning does it have for you and how does it apply to your life choices?

TR: My trademark is “We Are Never Truly Alone.” I feel like we are connected to spirit all of the time. I also am a firm believer that the Universe will always provide you with what you need for your highest and greatest good. What’s meant for you will not pass you by. You have to remain in a love base of positive mental attitude releasing all doubt. There really is no other option. I know sometimes it might be difficult to see the whole picture at once, however, when you make that commitment the abundance will flow.

tiffany-rice-paranormal

TCS: What is the most rewarding aspect of your volunteer work with Aruba Animal Shelter?

TR: I help give them a voice. There are animals neglected, abused and abandoned. Some countries I work with don’t have the funds to spay and neuter. I help create the awareness. I’ve gone to Aruba on a special mission to help local shelters care for these animals and get the word out to adopt. Most recently I created a fundraiser to help raise funds for food, vitamins and total care for these fur babies. Since posting we collectively have been able to get around 20 dogs adopted so far. I will always have a soft spot for animals. I have three dogs of my own.

TCS: Can you describe for us both your short and long-term aspirations?

TR: I would have to say being grateful to wake up every day healthy being surrounded by some pretty amazing people in my life. As far as career, I want to continue to provide healing and validate that your loved ones in spirit are here with you. It doesn’t matter where you are located, energy is energy. Your loved ones come through regardless. I want to be that connecter. Essentially, reaching as many people as I can through spirit connections and total inspiration connecting you to your full alignment of mind, body and spirit.

To stay connected with Tiffany Rice, please join her on the following:

Tiffany Rice Website
Tiffany Rice Facebook
Tiffany Rice Instagram
Tiffany Rice Twitter
Tiffany Rice YouTube

About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Additionally, The Creative Spotlight has also focused on historic Pennsylvania-based paranormal venues such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Paranormal investigator Kitsie Duncan, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice, the Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride, well-known actors and actresses, published authors, professional artists, local businesses, consultants, trainers, speakers and more…

Frank earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.

Mar 19 2021

Shaun Benson: Actor and Director

Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono and Celeste Iacono

Shaun Benson is a Canadian actor and director who was born in Guelph, Ontario. From a very young age, Shaun studied the arts including piano, ballet, and modern dance. He attended the University of Western Ontario and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and Biochemistry.

During his University career, he began to perform seriously and garnered roles in university theater productions such as One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest, Bones, and Biloxi Blues. Post-graduation, Shaun went on to study and train at the George Brown College Theater School in Toronto.

Shaun made his television debut as Jonah Gleason, a series lead, on the critically acclaimed series The Associates (2002), which led to another lead as Patrick Heller for the PAX network on Just Cause (2002-2003). He is best known for playing Leonid in Kathryn Bigelo’s K-19: The Widowmaker (2002) opposite Harrison Ford and Liam Neeson, playing Steven Lars Webber on General Hospital (2004 – 2005), Bob Taylor in Populaire (2012), the mysterious Simon in Kept Woman (2015), Ezekiel in The Boys (2019), and Mike Farrar in A House on Fire (2021).

In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, I had the pleasure of interviewing Shaun Benson and asking him a few questions about what first got him into acting, his career as an actor, his experience in directing Barn Wedding, his time on the daytime soap opera General Hospital, his experience filming A House on Fire as well as his musical aspirations.

Q&A Session

The Creative Spotlight: At what age did you become interested in acting? And, who or what inspired you to pursue a career as an actor?

Shaun Benson: I’ve always been a performer. I played my first piano recital at age 5 (badly) and was dancing onstage by age 9. The inspiration was a blend of things like watching Singin’ in the Rain (still my favorite all-time movie), The Sound of Music, and James Bond, etc. as a kid and also just how much fun dancing and school plays were.

TCS: What famous actors were among your early influences and how do you think they shaped your acting style?

SB: Gene Kelly most definitely—he shaped my style in that I am not afraid to go classically large with a role and I’m not afraid for it to be fun. In later years, it was Keanu Reeves, Robert De Niro, and Matthew McConnaughey. De Niro for depth and Keanu and Matthew for the fun and joy of watching that sometimes actors who take themselves too seriously can lose.

TCS: Can you share with us your experience in directing Barn Wedding?

SB: Simply put Barn Wedding was the best artistic endeavor of my life. Working with the actors to create the characters – then the writer, then the cinematographers, then all of the editing and sounds mixing etc.— it challenged me daily and made my motor rev in every gear to the redline. Just the way I like it.

TCS: How did you prepare for your role as a villain in the 2015 movie Kept Woman?

SB: Preparing for Kept Woman involved a lot of research into my own favorite film villains and then giving myself daily permission to be bad — both as a human and as an actor. I had to embrace a lot of darkness and then let it out because Simon doesn’t actually disagree with his own actions. So first I had to dig into the perversity of the actions and then I had to have fun executing them. It took its toll.

TCS: Tell us about playing Dr. Steven Lars Webber, perhaps your best known role, on General Hospital.

SB: That was a sheer delight. The cast and network of that show are so talented and engaged – far more than I was expecting. My run was only a year but I learned and gained so much more than I could ever describe. Huge shout outs to Jill, Maurice, Rick, Corbin, and Nancy.

TCS: How did your participation in Louis Nowra’s film K-19: The Widowmaker, directed by Kathryn Bigelow, influence your acting career?

SB: The influences of that film are still being felt 13 years later. I don’t even know what I learned because I was on set for 3 months but not in a ton of scenes. So I got to watch and absorb. Certain pennies only drop years later and some haven’t yet, I’m sure. The biggest thing I learned, that I’m aware of, is that it’s ok to be both technical and in the moment. Harrison and Liam are masters of this.

TCS: Tell us about how exciting it was playing Bob Taylor in the French film Populaire?

SB: It was exciting beyond measure. Paris 4 months Premiere on the Champs Elysee, working with Roman, Berenice, Regis, and Deborah and Laurent and Guillaume etc. etc. etc. — it was perfection from day 1. It is a beautiful film in a beautiful country made by beautiful people.

TCS: Can you describe for us your experience working on documentaries such as Flight of the Butterflies and Casting By?

SB: Flight of the Butterflies was a bit like Populaire (except for my Montezuma’s Revenge day 1!!!!) The people involved and motorcycling through the Mexican countryside with Stephanie Sigman (the next Bond girl) on the back and ultimately shooting a scene with half a billion butterflies — forget it. Perfection.

Casting By was as eye opening as a project has been as I was the photographer for the first half and therefore was a fly on the wall and got to hear some of the world’s greatest talents talk about the casting process. Just invaluable.

TCS: Can you tell us about your new Lifetime Movie A House on Fire and what the true story is based on?

SB: The movie A House on Fire is based on the true story of Deborah Green and Mike Farrar. Debora (portrayed by actress Stephanie March) was a brilliant oncologist whose underlying mental illness led her to ultimately burning down her home, killing two of her children. The film follows her and Michael’s life together as they navigate each other and the last gasps of their marriage and her career as they careen towards this tragic conclusion.

TCS: How did you prepare for your role as Mike Farrar?

SB: Preparing for the role of Mike involved a lot of work both internally and externally. The external was doing the homework on the people, researching the incident and reading Ann Rule’s book, Bitter Harvest, which the film was based on. Additionally, it also meant getting a rhythm and way of moving and talking that, while not huge shifts, made it Mike and not me. The internal work involved intense imaginative work which opened myself up to what each heightened scene needed. After shooting, I spent my nights decompressing for an hour or more just to create space for the next day’s version of the same!

TCS: Share with us some background concerning your iTunes podcast?

SB: I always woke my lady up by ranting about politics or traffic or excitement about my week and I thought I should give her a break and share the ramblin! It’s been a huge success with thousands of listeners in 50 countries.

Listen to the Shaun Benson, Chatting Between Takes podcast now.

TCS: What would you consider your best and worst moment so far in show business?

SB: My best moment happened recently when the first film I directed sold out to standing room only and won 2 awards – but most importantly I felt like my 8 year old self watching it. And my worst was when drugs and alcohol killed my career for about 5 years. I’m in my own 2^nd life in this career and I’m as grateful as a man could be.

TCS: Backtracking to your time at the University of Western Ontario to now working as a professional actor, is there a specific role that you’ve either played or portrayed that you would you say is your favorite and why?

SB: My favorite would have to be the character of Lewis in a play called Waiting for Lewis. I was so naive and inexperienced but got guided by Fabrizio Filippo and Joanna McIntyre to do what I still believe is some of my best work and it also let me know this was a career I could excel at.

TCS: Is there a specific role or type of character that you haven’t played yet but would really like to?

SB: COMEDY! COMEDY! COMEDY!

TCS: Can you share with us your interests and hobbies outside of acting and directing?

SB: Karate, car racing, cycling, motorcycling, hangin at the mall with my lady, playing in my band Emmy Rouge, chillin’ out, and binge watching TV shows.

TCS: Where did your interest in music come from and how did you land writing for the LA based band Analog Smith?

SB: My house was always full of music. We had a piano, banjos, guitars, and a violin — so I just mucked around. Truly the summer camp I went to was where it all coalesced into writing and performing. The band was started like most — a few dudes who liked how each other carried it. The writing followed pretty naturally from that.

About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono

Additionally, The Creative Spotlight has also focused on historic Pennsylvania-based paranormal venues such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Paranormal investigator Kitsie Duncan, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice, the Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride, well-known actors and actresses, published authors, professional artists, local businesses, consultants, trainers, speakers and more…

Francesco earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.

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