My name is Dr. Oye Owolewa: that’s oh-WOAH-lay-wah. I’m a pharmacist, I’m DC’s only citywide elected officeholder from East of the River, and I’m running to represent you on the DC Council at-large.
I’ll be honest — growing up in Boston, I didn’t see the point of public service. Kids bullied me for my name. I started picking fights. I got suspended from school. My parents, hardworking Nigerian immigrants from Kwara and Osun, wouldn’t tolerate that.
They pushed me to get educated, to become a scientist, and to give back to my community. I graduated as the only Black man in my doctoral program, so when I moved to DC, I started volunteering in classrooms. When I teach kids how to do science experiments — when they put on lab coats and call each other “Doctor” — they realize the potential they’ve got isn’t limited by their skin color, the zip code they live in, or how hard it is for other people to pronounce their name.
A diverse group of people at a graduation ceremony, with one graduate in cap and gown holding a diploma, surrounded by family and friends outdoors.
The image features a landscape with a dark starry night sky and a glowing blue horizon over a calm body of water reflecting the sky.
With a name like mine, I never expected to be in politics, but I take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way. As your U.S. Representative, I’ve worked to get drugs off the streets, helped returning citizens get good paying union jobs, and secured access to the Covid vaccine for thousands of Washingtonians (and even vaccinated some patients myself).
I don’t have a vote in Congress, but I don’t sit around. When I notice a problem, I don’t wait for somebody else to fix it — I build the solution.
I’ve seen what people can do when other people notice their problem, and when they get the help that they need. Maybe it’s easy to be noticed when you’re the mayor’s biggest donor. But it’s not easy to be noticed when you’re an immigrant. It’s not easy to be noticed when you’re only used to politicians lying to you once every few years for your vote.
When I’m on the DC Council, you can count on me to notice. And just like I’ve been doing, I’ll keep fixing problems, keep standing up for working families, and keep building the solutions our city needs
Meet Sean Swarner. A living example of what is possible when purpose is stronger than circumstance. Once given just 14 days to live, Sean became the first cancer survivor to summit Mount Everest. He has since become the only person in history to climb the highest peak on every continent, ski to both Poles, complete the Hawaii Ironman World Championship, and run 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days, all with one lung.
Beyond the accomplishments, Sean is the author of the forthcoming book: The True Summit Method, and a globally sought after keynote speaker. His work helps individuals and organizations distinguish between false summits and true alignment, turning adversity into clarity, resilience, and decisive action.
From a hospital bed to the highest places on Earth, Sean’s journey is not about defying odds. It is about showing others how to identify their true summit and build a life and legacy that actually matters.
Ross Coulthart is an Australia-based investigative journalist, author and filmmaker with over 35 years in broadcast television public affairs and newspaper journalism. He is currently a senior investigations correspondent for the US national NEWS NATION TV news network based out of Chicago, hosting the popular show REALITY CHECK. https://www.youtube.com/@NewsNation
Since 2017 much of Ross’ investigative work has focussed on the phenomenon of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs) aka UFOs, a subject long stigmatised and ridiculed but now acknowledged officially by the US Government to be an authentic scientific mystery worthy of serious investigation.
In June 2023, Ross’ exclusive television interview with former senior intelligence officer David Grusch revealed Grusch’s investigations with the Pentagon’s UAP Task Force had uncovered a secret US Government and private aerospace UAP craft retrieval and reverse engineering program, knowledge of which has been withheld from Congressional oversight.
In January 2025, Ross’ exclusive television interview with former US intelligence operative Jake Barber brought to public light for the first time, direct on-the-record evidence of the US Government’s covert NHI technology program.
Ross has worked as an investigative journalist across TV and newspapers, including the Sydney Morning Herald, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s Four Corners, Nine’s Sunday show and 60 Minutes, and the Seven’s Sunday Night investigative public affairs show.
A law graduate, Ross has written six best-selling books, including In Plain Sight: An Investigation into UFOs & Impossible Science (HarperCollins 2021). One of his three First World War histories, Charles Bean, won the 2015 Australian Prime Minister’s Literary Award for Australian History.
Karina is a best selling author and influential voice in the holistic life community. She participates in numerous international conferences, sharing her wisdom on femininity, well-being and the importance of human connection. Her ability to connect with the public in a deep and personal way makes her a favorite for both event organizers and attendees. The yorgasmic method and her online experiences explore the connection to femininity, embodiment, and spirituality from a modern and practical angle.
As an author, Karina has written several inspiring books that motivate readers to lead a balanced and fulfilling life. Her works, such as “The Art of Healthy Living” and “The Colors of Love “, combine practical advice with deep ideas, making complex concepts accessible and attractive. These books have been praised for their transformative ability. His program “ Integral Sexuality ” is on the air in GAIA and his series in English “Coffee, tea or sex ” opened many conversations on YouTube. Karina offers online courses, personal mentoring and retreats, providing clarity and tools to live in the best possible way.
Her holistic approach and genuine passion for helping others make her a source of inspiration in the world of wellness. Karina’s leadership in the wellness community is distinguished by her innovative approach to energy teaching and her dedication to fostering authentic connections. She believes that true well-being goes beyond the physical, also encompassing emotional, mental and spiritual well-being. Through her work, Karina encourages people to explore their inner world, harness their energy, and build meaningful relationships. Her influence extends beyond her books and lectures, positioning her as a visionary leader in the global holistic community.
Malou Beauvoir, is a captivating, highly emotive singer-songwriter and actor who brings to her artistry the unique amalgamation of her multi-cultural influences and experiences. A citizen of the world, she has lived in the US, Europe and Haiti, and traveled extensively; each culture she has encountered has impacted and informed her in different ways, reinforcing her openness to different perspectives and forms of spirituality.
Born in Chicago to Haitian parents, Malou was raised in New York. She moved to Paris at a young age to attend the American University and pursue her artistic passions. Juggling both art and business while earning an MBA and a senior position in the high-tech industry, by the end of the 1990s she devoted herself exclusively to singing and acting, securing engagements in venues around the world — from Dubai to Rio, Beirut, London, and Paris, where she performed for two years as lead singer at the renowned Paradis Latin. She currently splits her time between Brussels and New York, continuing to travel around the world.
Beauvoir’s acting career has included roles in Stephen Frears’ Oscar-winning The Queen, Élisabeth Rappeneau’s Paul et ses Femmes, in which she plays Agnes, a jazz singer (Beauvoir wrote the song she performs in the film), Christian Carion’s Farewell, and the hit TV series, Perception. She is currently filming Season 2 of SPELLBOUND, a HULU/Cottonwood Media teen TV series in Paris.
Malou has enjoyed a diverse recording career ranging from featured Universal France artist to collaborations with jazz, electro and pop artists, resulting in 5 independently released jazz albums and many collaborations.
Spiritwalker (2018), her sixth recording, co-produced by Chico Boyer and Cheff Loncher, is a tribute to her Haitian culture and roots, inspired both by contemporary social & political issues, and by the ancient spirits of Haiti.
“Papa Damballah” from the SPIRITWALKER album was featured in the end credits of Suzan Beraza’s poignant documentary “MASSACRE RIVER : Woman without a Country”. “Nwaye” co-written with Paul Beaubrun, was among the winners of the International Songwriting Competition in 2019 and the Vodou infused single “Rasenbleman” has raised a rallying cry for Haitians all over the world.
Beauvoir’s 2022 release, “Kenbem”,(Peer Music/Universal), is the official creole adaptation of the Brendan Graham/ Rolf Lovland classic You Raise Me up. In her lyrics, she alludes to the relationship between Vaudou and the Christian faith in Haiti, offering a healing balm for both.
Beauvoir has performed internationally, sharing the stage with renowned musicians including Benny Wallace, Donald Vega, Danny Mixon, Terrell Stafford and Hernan Riley and has donated her performances, productions and support to non-profit organizations who are working to make this world a better place.
This includes performances for the Tibet Fund Gala in NY, the Fonkoze Gala in L.A, Back Country Jazz fundraiser, “Roots for Development” Fundraiser and many others.
Lou is an XP Land and WXO Council Member as well as the Co Founder of NOXNOP.
Previously, she was a Venture Partner with Triptyq Capital and she served as President of the Los Angeles Studio at Thinkwell Group, where she drove business results through design and production excellence in experiential, immersive, and interactive experiences.
At TD Garden Boston, home of the NBA’s Boston Celtics and the NHL’s Boston Bruins, Lou was Senior Vice President of Business Operations, transforming the guest experience into a best-in-class experiential ecosystem.
As Vice President of Creative Entertainment Parks & Resorts at The Walt Disney Company, she led an international team of over 500, delivering live entertainment and broadcast experiences at Walt Disney World.
Lou also served as Vice President of Strategic Planning and Partnerships for Cirque du Soleil’s touring division, overseeing the creative and distribution funnel of this multimillion-dollar segment.
Marilyn Magness is the former Imagineer and Executive Creative Director of Live Show
Development for the Walt Disney Company, responsible for all entertainment for Disneyland, Walt Disney World and Paris Disneyland.
Marilyn has directed spectaculars both on stage and in the sky, multiple international tours, film premiers, Emmy-winning television specials, Broadway’s “Peter Pan”, “The Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular”, Olympic Opening Ceremonies, Super Bowl Halftime Shows, Presidential Inaugurations, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Pasadena Rose Parade, the Grand Openings of Disney Resorts and Cruise Lines around the world and a myriad of global theme park and corporate musical celebrations
On a personal note, Marilyn has been married for 47 years to college sweetheart, Steve Carroll. She is the Co Founder of NOXNOP. She plays honky-tonk piano, loves downhill skiing, and is the world’s worst cook.
New Holiday Animated Short “No Chimney? No Problem!”
Veteran Disney creative leader and writer director Marilyn Magness teams up with producer Lou Murray to deliver a warm 2D Christmas story for kids and families.
A new 2D animated holiday short is coming to YouTube just in time for Christmas. “No Chimney? No Problem!” is an approximately 11 minute film from NOXNOP, a micro entertainment studio co created by writer director Marilyn Magness and producer Lou Murray.
Blending classic holiday heart with a modern family setting, “No Chimney? No Problem!” follows a child who discovers there is no chimney where they are spending Christmas. Convinced that Santa will never find them, panic sets in until a magical book, a little bit of North Pole know how, and the power of belief show that Santa has a way to reach every child, no matter where they live.
“Growing up, I loved the feeling that Christmas magic could find you anywhere,” said writer director Marilyn Magness. “Today many kids live in apartments, condos, townhouses, or blended households. I wanted to tell a story that reassures them that they are seen, loved, and never ‘off the route’ for Santa. If this short makes even one child feel more included at Christmas, it will have done its job.”
“No Chimney? No Problem!” was created by a small international team using a nimble, AI supported workflow. Animation was crafted by 2D animator Cris Moras, with original music score, sound design, and final mix by Scott Erickson. The film also features the holiday song “When You Believe in Santa Claus,” by Jason Freese released earlier this season on major streaming platforms.
“In a matter of weeks, we built a micro studio from our laptops and brought a full animated short to life,” said producer and NOXNOP co founder Lou Murray. “For years I worked in large scale live entertainment, arenas, and theme parks. This project is proof that you do not always need a giant machine to make something that feels special. With the right story, the right collaborators, and smart use of new tools, a tiny team can still create something joyful and rewatchable for families everywhere.”
The short is designed to be a “put it on and let it play” holiday piece that parents can feel good about sharing with their kids. Warm colors, classic 2D animation, and a story centered on love, inclusion, and belief aim to give families a new tradition they can return to each year.
“We created NOXNOP to tell hopeful stories that children will want to watch again and again,” added Magness. “This is our first chapter, and we are already dreaming about the next ones.”
Carol Connors is one of the most influential and boundary-breaking songwriters of the last six decade —an artist whose work shaped pop, rock, and Hollywood film music at a time when few women were allowed into the writing rooms.
Her career began at 16½, when she became the unmistakable voice of The Teddy Bears, singing the Phil Spector–penned global No. 1 hit “To Know Him Is To Love Him.” In the 1960s, she made history again as the co-writer of “Hey Little Cobra,” still the only major hot-rod hit written by a woman reaching the top of the charts in a male-dominated genre.
Connors’ most defining achievement came in 1976 when she co-wrote “Gonna Fly Now,” the electrifying theme to Rocky, alongside Bill Conti and Ayn Robbins. The song earned an Academy Award® nomination, helped turn Rocky into a worldwide phenomenon, and remains one of the most iconic musical themes in cinematic history. She continued shaping the musical identity of the franchise with iconic contributions to Rocky II, III, IV, Rocky Balboa and Creed.
Her wide-ranging work includes the original songs for Walt Disney’s The Rescuers, the international ballad “With You I’m Born Again”, music for Orca, The Killer Whale, Looking for Mr. Goodbar, and the beloved Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous theme performed by Dionne Warwick.
In 2025, Connors released her memoir Elvis, Rocky & Me, brought to audio format with producer David Longoria and narrated by Kathy Garver. The audiobook is now a 2026 GRAMMY® nominee.
From pop stages to Hollywood studios, Carol Connors remains a pioneering force—and a woman whose work continues to inspire generations.
About Elvis, “Rocky” and Me
Carol Connors has lived her dream and she shares her remarkable success story in her wild ride memoir Elvis, “Rocky” and Me.
As an entertainer Carol has done it all with her singer/songwriter talents recognized with two Oscar, five Emmy, one Grammy and two Golden Globe nominations, along with a wall in her home proudly decorated with the gold and platinum records she’s received.
Carol is one of the female pioneers of music for film and television. She made her mark in music at age 16 when she recorded the hit song To Know Him Is to Love Him. The enormous success of that song was the start of a career that is still going strong. She has written music for Dionne Warwick and Billy Preston and has seen her songs covered by Mariah Carey and John Legend. Among Carol’s proudest accomplishments is her co-writing the Oscar-nominated theme Gonna Fly Now for the blockbuster film Rocky.
Carol’s personal life is every bit as fascinating as her show business career. While she never chose to marry, she’s dated such famous names as Elvis Presley, Robert Culp and David Janssen. Today, she continues to lead an active and productive lifestyle with her dedicated charity work and taking time to enjoy even the simple pleasures.
Carol’s story is not only an entertaining read, but stands as an inspiration to anyone hoping to reach and even exceed their own dreams.






