Indie Night in San Francisco

On June 1st, the acclaimed Los Angeles-based Indie Night Film Festival arrived at the Kabuki Theater in San Francisco. Dave Brown, Founder/CEO and San Francisco native, has a vision for the film industry that is squarely focused on promoting the many talented producers, actors, and designers contributing to this billion-dollar industry. The festival has been running for twelve years and it’s only up from here. The special guest appearances at the event were Morris Chestnut and Tachina Arnold.

The Indie Night Film Festival is not your typical film fest —it's a weekly celebration of cinematic artistry designed to elevate emerging talent while providing a platform for networking and collaboration. Entrepreneur Dave Brown created Indie Night to bridge the gap within the filmmaking community by fostering connections between like-minded individuals worldwide. The Indie Film Festival currently has over 450 film submissions worldwide, and the vault only continues to grow in demand.

The festival showed over 10 short films and trailers and featured Faces of the City: Fighting for the Soul of America, produced by veteran actor Tisha Campbell. This film is about the vibrancy and legacy of San Francisco. The festival also showed “When It Reigns”, a trailer by Oakland’s burgeoning filmmaker Jamaica René.

Indie films have not just challenged traditional cinematic norms; they've shattered them. These films offer unique storytelling perspectives and push creative boundaries in truly inspiring ways. Through their smaller budgets and independent spirit, they often tackle unconventional subjects and portray diverse characters, providing a refreshing alternative to mainstream cinema. As a result, indie films have resonated with audiences seeking an escape from formulaic blockbusters and are increasingly celebrated for their authenticity and originality.

The mission of Indie Night is to elevate the craft of independent artists and creators. It also provides a venue for them to showcase their work, network, and exchange information with new and established creatives. It creates a community that values and supports independent art. For more about the Indie Night Film Festival, visit www.indienightfilmfestival.com.

CHELSEA GRAY, 2023 WNBA ALL-STAR - BAY AREA NATIVE

On July 15, 2023, bay area native Chelsea Gray, WNBA Las Vegas Aces Point Guard, made the all-star team for the fifth time, playing with an advantage on home territory. Gray, a celebrated and one of the top players in the WNBA, is highly decorated and has achieved the Commissioner’s Top MVP Award, the Final’s MVP Award, and is a two-time WNBA Champion. Gray is known for her relentless and masterful moves in passing, often in a direction she is not looking. A skill that catches players off guard all the time. She did not disappoint in this area in this year's all-star game.

During the press conference, Gray talked about how many WNBA players go overseas during the offseason, given more significant pay and a broader visibility for branding. The conversation and negotiations around increased compensation overall for WNBA players have been ongoing for several years. Still, in the meantime, players are serious about their careers and being paid their worth. Hence other opportunities, such as playing overseas, are viable options.

Gray is excited about Dwayne Wade’s ownership stake in the WNBA’s Chicago Sky as she believes it will positively impact the WNBA overall. Also, Gray looks forward to having a presence in the Bay Area, being born, and raised in Hayward, CA. Details she hopes to share soon.