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Donations Closed
See You Next Time!
Welcome to the KVR Developer Challenge 2014, the fifth free-for-all audio plug-in / audio application / soundware design event!
The "KVR Developer Challenge" is for anyone who develops Audio Plug-ins or Applications and Soundware. The challenge is to create and release a brand new free audio plug-in, application or sound library / pack / set that will benefit the community at large. Creativity is key, it can be as simple or as complex as you want - KVR members will vote on the entries and pick the eventual winner using whatever criteria they choose to.
The voting stage has ended and we are very excited to announce that we have winners! Thanks to everyone who entered, donated and voted!
1st: Multiply by Acon Digital
In first place is Acon Digital with their chorus effect plugin, Multiply, an Audio Unit, VST Plugin and AAX Plugin for 32- and 64-bit Windows and Mac OS X. Being both Mac & Win compatible Acon Digital win 60% of the KVRDC14 prize fund! Of course they also win the fantastic A3E prize giving them the opportunity to present their entry at the A3E show in Boston, September 23-24, 2014! Congratulations to them.
Multiply is a versatile chorus effect with a unique twist. Each simulated voice is processed with a phase randomizing filter so that unpleasant comb filter effects are avoided. The effect can be used to simulate the effect of several performers playing the same tones simultaneously, to widen the spatial image or to create special effects for sound design.
Multiply can simulate up to 6 additional voices and both the pitch and the loudness of the voices can be modulated. There is also an integrated equalizer consisting of low cut, low shelf, high shelf and high cut filters that can be applied to the effect signal. An integrated pre-delay section makes it possible to create modulated and diffuse echo effects.
2nd: Nova-67P by vladg/sound
The runner up is Nova-67P by vladg/sound, a parallel parametric equalizer plugin combined with a compressor. It's also available for 32- and 64-bit Windows and Mac OS X in Audio Units and VST plugin formats. vladg/sound wins 20% of the final prize fund.
Nova-67P is a parallel parametric equalizer plugin combined with a compressor. The compressor can optionally operate in frequency dependent and split-band modes. In this case the plugin operates as a parallel dynamic equalizer.
- 5 bands parallel equalizer with auto-gain.
- Optional high-pass and low-pass filters.
- Full-band frequency dependent and/or split-band compression.
- Side-chain filtering and pre-emphasis.
- Third-octave real-time spectrum analysis down to 15 Hz.
- External side-chain support.
- 64-bit internal processing.
- Ascetic UI style.
3rd: Emissary by Ignite Amps
Rounding out the top three is another effect plugin: Emissary by Ignite Amps, a digital emulation of a custom dual channel guitar tube amplifier. Sadly there is no financial reward for third place this year, but Ignite Amps can revel in the glory of placing in the top 3 and scoring more than twice as many votes as the fourth placed entry.
Emissary has been developed to accurately model its real hardware counterpart, built for Ryan Huthnance (The Seer / Gaped / Chrome Bison / Emissary Studios) by Ignite Amps, in 2014. It is a no compromise custom amp built for the kill. Featuring a very versatile clean channel that ranges from pristine cleans to slightly overdriven tones and a mean lead channel designed for serious bone-crushing distortions, it offers a very wide tonal palette for the modern metal musician.
Every single component on the signal path of the real analog circuit has been taken into account and modeled in the best possible way to match the original sound, keeping an eye on CPU performance and real-time playability at the same time.
The plug-in GUI has been 3D modeled and rendered by Voger Design, in order to resemble the real amplifier as much as possible.
Soundware Winner: NanoMod 7: 8-bit synths by Rhythmic Robot
The top rated Soundware release, and so winning 10% of the prize fund, is NanoMod 7: 8-bit synths by Rhythmic Robot, a simple but versatile Kontakt synthesiser based on vintage 8-bit polysynths, featuring an "intelligent" interface that allows the user to adjust multiple parameters with single controls.
Wildcard Winner: Fifth Degree by Bernie Maier
Which brings us to the Wildcard (which wins the final 10% of the prize fund). This decision was simple - we have no qualms in awarding it to Fifth Degree by Bernie Maier, primarily because it's our first ever entry for iOS! Perhaps we'll get an Android entry next time?
Fifth Degree is a MIDI sequencer based on a simple concept: loop around the musical circle of fifths in key and tweak the performance parameters live. You can use it to create a mesmerising loop and change the way it plays or use it as a base while you improvise alongside it with another instrument. You can even use it as a convenient loop of notes while you try out different sound patches on your synthesiser.
It's all over now...
So what have we learned? Well, KVR members love an effect plugin! Including KVRDC14, the last three challenges have been won by effect plug-ins (If bootsie / Variety Of Sound had entered this year would he have made it three in a row? I bet the other entrants breathed a sigh of relief when the entries were published and he hadn't entered!).
Interestingly, while the total number of entries was down on last time, all three of this year's top placed entries are cross-platform, multi-format and 32- and 64-bit. This is a first for the KVRDC and, along with our first iOS entry, a very good thing for the future of the event. With the ever increasing usage of mobile audio applications I expect to see at least one Android app next time! Roll on KVRDC15...
Below you'll find the 37 entries for KVRDC14! 29 run on Windows, 9 on Mac OS X, 1 on Linux, 1 on iOS and 6 are Soundware for other products. Thank you and congratulations to all developers for getting your entries in. They are listed in the order they finished.
KVR Developer Challenge 2014 Entries
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Voting is now closed!
You can vote for your favourite 5 entries.
Award 5 points to your favourite, four to your second favourite, down to 1.
Votes are saved automatically. You can change them at any time until voting closes - simply click the appropriate number next to the entry you are voting for and your votes will be updated in this "My Current Votes" box.
by Acon Digital
Acon Digital Multiply is a free and versatile chorus effect with a unique twist. Each simulated voice is processed with a phase randomizing filter so that unpleasant comb filter effects are avoided. The effect can be used to simulate the effect of several performers playing the same tones simultaneously, to widen the spatial image or to create special effects for sound design. Multiply can simulate up to 6 additional voices and both the pitch and the loudness of the voices can be modulated. There is also an integrated equalizer consisting of low cut, low shelf, high shelf and high cut filters that can be applied to the effect signal. An integrated pre-delay section makes it possible to create modulated and diffuse echo effects.
Acon Digital Multiply is available for both Windows (PC) and macOS (Macintosh). Both 32 and 64-bit versions are available for Windows and the version for macOS is 64-bit. The plug-in formats VST, VST3, AAX Native / AudioSuite and Audio Units (macOS only) are supported.
by vladg/sound
Nova-67P is a parallel parametric equalizer plugin combined with a compressor. The compressor can operate in full-band and split-band modes. In latter case the plugin operates as a parallel dynamic equalizer.
- 5 bands parallel equalizer with auto-gain.
- Optional high-pass and low-pass filters.
- Full-band frequency dependent and/or split-band compression.
- Side-chain filtering and pre-emphasis.
- Third-octave real-time spectrum analysis down to 15 Hz.
- External side-chain support.
- 64-bit internal processing.
by Ignite Amps
The Emissary is a digital emulation of a custom dual channel guitar tube amplifier. It has been developed to accurately model its real hardware counterpart, built for Ryan Huthnance (The Seer / Gaped / Chrome Bison / Emissary Studios) by Ignite Amps, in 2014.
The Emissary is a no compromise custom amp built for the kill. Featuring a very versatile clean channel that ranges from pristine cleans to slightly overdriven tones and a mean lead channel designed for serious bone-crushing distortions, it offers a very wide tonal palette for the modern metal musician.
Every single component on the signal path of the real analog circuit has been taken into account and modeled in the best possible way to match the original sound, keeping an eye on CPU performance and real-time playability at the same time.
The plug-in GUI has been 3D modeled and rendered by Voger Design, in order to resemble the real amplifier as much as possible.
The Emissary is meant to be used as a virtual guitar amplifier for live playing and jamming, tracking or mixing inside hosts capable of AAX, AU VST or VST3 Plug-Ins support.
by AXP
Flextron is a virtual-analog guitar amp based on a concept of the hybrid guitar distortion pedal I've built for myself a while ago. The prototype pedal in its turn was based on two commercial tube emulation technologies – Flexwave by Crate and Cooltron by VOX. This combination was discovered by accident when I was repairing my bandmate's VOX Bulldog distortion pedal. I didn't like the Bulldog that much, however I got interested in its low-voltage tube design so I assembled a copy on a test bench. On its own it has provided very little overdrive, just as expected, but when combined with the Crate Flexwave preamp (my favorite solid-state distortion) it has completed its already great tone, giving it more fullness and presence. I've used this arrangement for rehearsals and some gigs and got complemented for the tone.
Flextron goes a step further and accurately models a range of Crate solid-state amps powered by the Flexwave circuit. Every stage of the preamp signal path is carefully analyzed and modeled with the same attention to details as my previous SoftDrive GV and SoftAmp FM25 plugins.
The Flexwave amp design has evolved over the years. I counted 6 different variations. After careful analysis, I've narrowed down the scope to 3 models. The one I've played with was made in the late 90's and I think it's ahead of the pack. However in 2000's they have changed the gain channel structure significantly and after some consideration I've decided to model all three.
The Cooltron circuit in its turn stayed the same across their pedal range. I've tried a couple of different approaches to modeling it before settling on the final one. Since I've had a real physical implementation at my disposal I was able to successfully verify the accuracy of the digital model.
Interestingly, both Flexwave and Cooltron follow exactly the same idea – they essentially are an asymmetric clipping stage biased by the low-passed feedback signal. Having made my own SoftAmp 3OD model I can say that this is exactly how a real guitar amp triode stage works. The main difference is that Cooltron uses a 12AU7 tube running on 6V anode voltage for the authentic tube waveshaping, while Flexwave relies on an asymmetrically configured "rubber diode" pair to achieve the same effect.
In addition to the fully featured 3-channel preamp and a tube saturation stage, Flextron offers a dual-mode stereo reverb (algorithmic and convolution-based), a speaker simulator with two cabinet models and an ambience control (intended mainly for practising in headphones), a switchable order oversampling and a set of visualization instruments, such as an EQ curve plot and stage bias meters.
Just as with my previous plugins, every single control is remapped to produce linear response on a dB scale.
Additional details can be found in the bundled manual.
by Archetype Instruments
Lokomotiv is a software synthesizer for both Windows and Mac. Lokomotiv is designed to make your sounds more powerful and create wide range of sounds way easier.
- Oscillator:
- Mathematically generated high definition Oscillator without using wavetable or interpolation.
- Silky smooth 9 X detuned sawtooth wave.
- Pulse wave with self PWM.
- Shape morphing sub oscillator.
- Filter:
- MG ladder modeling multimode filter featured Zero Delay Feedback technology.
- Routable filter Drive. (Pre / Post).
- Modulator:
- Natural Curved ADSR Envelope generator.
- Oneshot LFO which can be used as envelope.
- 1 X OSC (Saw+ Pulse) + 1 Sub OSC. Noise Generator.
- 1 X multimode Filter with Drive.
- 1 X LFO, 1 X Envelop Generator.
- 8 polyphonic voices, Mono and Legato mode supported.
- 64 Factory preset included.
- Native 64-bit, Mac and Windows OS supported.
Demo Track: SoundCloud.com/archetype-instruments/lokofunk-by-jaewon-choi
- No effector, no sample, used LOKOMOTIV only.
- ONLY Factory presets of Lokomotiv and automation used.
- NO EFFECTS (internal, external or master) at all.
- Maximum 2 instances used at once.
by Musical Entropy
Guitar Gadgets is a compilation of "false" analog guitar pedal simulations, made to be used mainly with electric guitars and guitar amp simulations, but which may be sound interesting in any situation. The focus here wasn't to design classic effects, but weird, strange, ugly or "different" ones instead. The effects included are the following:
- Delay Attack: a delay effect which can be controlled by the way you attack the guitar strings.
- Super Phazor: a phaser effect with a feedback control.
- Niagara Falls: a bathroom / cathedral / Niagara Falls - like reverberation effect.
- The Crusher: an effect which brings only destruction and annihilation.
- Larsenator: a false larsen generator thanks to distortion and feedback.
- Combulator: a modulated comb filter effect.
- Miaou Miaou pedal: it's like a Wah Wah pedal, but it does "Miaou Miaou" instead.
- Microcassette: one particular tape recorder emulation, going a little too far maybe.
- Slicer: an effect which slices the sound from the guitar at any specified rate.
- Filtrator: a filter pedal effect like, based on the EMS VCS3 analog filter.
- Convolutor: a gadget to convolute weird sounds.
There is also a surprise somewhere (see the official thread on KVR forums for that !), some shiny animations, and a lot of fun I hope. Indeed, I tried to develop effects that are really amusing to use, and give sounds you don't often hear from your playing.
New with version 1.1.0 : now you can chain up to 4 gadgets in the same plug-in instance, and use the right click on any control to assign it to any MIDI Control Change (MIDI Learn). Moreover, you don't need anymore to play the easter egg game to unlock the HOT switch, even if doing so is still rewarding with new pedal skins.
New with version 1.2.0 : a preset system has been added with 2 new gadgets :
- Marshallizer: a guitar amp tonestack simulation.
- Little Leslie: an emulation of a rotating Leslie speaker.
New with version 1.3.0 : Sideways is a new auto-swell-like effect.
Guitar Gadgets is available on VST and AU formats (32/64-bits, Windows & Mac OS X).
Toned is a specialized tone shaping plugin with analog modeling. It is designed primarily for use in the mastering process or on two-track audio busses. Toned uses two distinct equalization processes: a three-band tone-shaping matrix, and a specially designed high pass (HP) filter.
The three-band tone-shaping matrix uses a crossover-style filter bank of first-order filters (-6dB per octave). This type of equalization produces very gentle and broad filtering, with minimal alteration of phase. Very wide boosts and cuts can be accomplished while still sounding natural. This style of equalization also mimics some of the interactions between frequency bands that are commonly found in passive analog EQs and analog tone controls. The tone-shaping matrix can be applied to stereo channels, or specifically to the mid or side channel. Additionally, Toned can be switched to use a two-band matrix.
The HP filter is specifically designed for accurately adjusting the low/sub bass energy. The filter has selectable Q and roll-off. The scale of the HP controls is specific to low bass, and ranges from 10 Hz to 50 Hz (with accuracy to 0.01 Hz). Just like the tone controls, the HP filter can be applied to the stereo channels, or specifically target the mid or side channel.
In addition to all of the tone and HP filter controls, Toned also includes an analog modeling engine to simulate the sound of hardware devices. The Toned analog sound consists of numerous parameters to simulate the unique frequency characteristics, saturation, self-noise, and other nuances of high-quality analog equipment. There is also a feedback control to simulate the effect of using negative feedback within an analog amplifier path.
Toned also includes many standard LVC-Audio features. This includes:
- Delay and phase compensated mix control.
- Adjustable input and output metering with peak and loudness meters.
- Internal 64-bit precision with 2x fixed oversampling rate.
- Knob controllers with fine- and superfine- control, and built-in A-B comparison.
System Requirements and Specifications:
- Windows: VST, VST3, RTAS, and AAX plugin formats. Toned requires Windows XP SP 3 or newer with a processor that supports SSE2 (AMD or Intel processor from around 2004 or later). An iLok device is required to use the AAX format.
- OS X: AU, VST, VST3, RTAS, and AAX plugin formats. Toned requires OS X 10.5 or later, and an Intel processor. An iLok device is required to use the AAX format.
Strum is Karplus-Strong synth, written completely in assembly. Very simple and clean UI with visual feedback of used/unused features for easy overview.
Two different and independent string generators for more variety of sounds, with own feedback, string length, attack/decay envelope and vibrato settings. First OSC is trying to simulate basic characteristics of four basic string types - nylon, bronze, steel and flatwound. Second generator uses basic shapes - sine, saw, triangle and square with additional options to tweak (tension & position).
Both generators share the same amp envelope, tremolo, timbre feedback settings and multi mode filter (lowpass, bandpass, highpass, bandreject, peak, Chamberlin lowpass, bandpass, highpass, peak, zOne lowpass, bandpass, highpass, peak, 303 lowpass, highpass and resonant filter). One LFO for cutoff modulation with 17 different shapes (Sine, Saw, Triangle, Ramp, Square and 4 of each based on Lorenz, Rosler and Ikeda attractors.
Delay, chorus and reverb module and simple soft knee limiter.
ReFine is a plugin that allows to add a final polishing to your tracks, busses and masters. It extracts psycho-acoustic parameters from the source and thus allows to add warmth, space and punch to your mixes. This is done level dependent and rather subtle; you probably won't be able to create heavy distortion effects with this plugin.
Version 1.1.0 won't be compatible with earlier versions but 1.1.0 can be installed alongside previous versions if one of the plugin is renamed. Since the amount of controls isn't too high migrating shouldn't be a problem.
The plugin is now open source.
The manual is available here.
- 1.2.0: JUCE update.
- 1.1.0: moved plugin to JUCE, added AU format, added x2 toggle.
- 1.0.6: fixed crash in mono instances.
- 1.0.5: fixed CPU issue in Cubase during silence.
- 1.0.3: added support for older VST hosts on Windows, OS X 10.6 support.
- 1.0.2: fixed denormalisation bug.
- 1.0.1: fixed high CPU bug (appeared when silence was put in after a signal).
Lucid is a Subtractive Synth that combines Waveshaping with FM and Morphing.
- 3 Oscillators with one waveshaper each.
- 3 different FM modes (Algorithms).
- 4 different Osc combination modes. Mix, Morph, Meld and Vertical Morph.
- 1 ZDF Filter with 6 different modes.
- 3 LFOs with Audio rate modes of which two can be waveshaped.
- 2 ADSRs with adjustable slopes, Velocity control, randomization and Keytracking.
- 1 Polyphonic distortion (waveshaper).
- 1 Delay that can be modulated.
- 1 Reverb.
- 1 Randomizer, key triggered or run by LFO3.
- 384 presets.
by madBee :: audio
This plug-in allows you to design your own equalizer by acting on parameters that change the curves behavior.
- Double precision filters.
- Automatic band width correction at Nyquist frequency when working below 48 kHz.
- Two GUI modes: really simple or highly editable.
- Integrated help window.
- Some presets based on classic gear.
- Two saturation modes: Soft clip (only odd harmonics) and Tube (even and odd harmonics).
by Virtual Analogy
Paraphrasis is an open source spectral modelling synthesiser which can model any sound only with one sonic sample. It is something between sampler and modelling synthesiser. You do not have to sample all tones of instrument neither you have to spend time with messing with other synthesisers. Just load a sample to Paraphrasis and enjoy your paraphrased instrument! It is based on modified Loris - an Open Source sound modeling and processing software package - and JUCE.
Only two parameters are needed:
- frequency pitch of a sample.
- frequency resolution of spectral analysis.
Paraphrasis has a 16 voice polyphony and has a "Reverse" option to analyse the sample backward so it is synthesised reversed as well.
Note: Currently only mono sounds can be handled - the stereo input is automatically converted into mono.
Current release
1.0.3 (Jun-22-2015)
- Improved: Synthetise engine highly optimized
- Added: Installer
- Fixed: Crash in MuLab and potentially in other hosts when pressing analyze when processing is running
- Improved: Memory usage optimised
- Fixed: Sound click in FL Studio 11 when notes are tight together
- Fixed: Paraphrasis pay attention to sample rate chages
- Improved: Mac OS compatibility is now 10.7+.
EpiCentre is a Distortion/FSU effect designed with minimal controls, to get fast and dirty results:
- 25x Distortion/FSU/Filter Effects.
- Mix Control.
- Gain Control.
- Low & High Tilt Filters.
Custom coded in C++, oversampled where useful, SSE2 optimizations of some critical code and ZDF filters for smooth modulation. GUI by Sebastian Heemsath aka Halma.
by Rhythmic Robot
NanoMod 8-bit is a simple but versatile Kontakt synthesiser based on vintage 8-bit polysynths, featuring an "intelligent" interface that allows the user to adjust multiple parameters with single controls. It is offered as part of the KVR Developers' Challenge 2014.
NanoMod 8-bit brings the simplicity of Rhythmic Robot's NanoMod interface to bear on the crusty, gritty, aliased sounds of classic 8-bit synthesisers of the early to mid 80s. Using source waves taken from vintage Ensoniq hardware and a front-end incorporating convolved Wasp and MS20 filters, this NanoMod is aimed squarely at big, powerful polysynth sounds – everything from warm and evolving pads to screaming leads.
The wave blend dial to the left of the panel shifts between the two raw waveforms at the heart of the NanoMod, both of which were sampled from vintage 8-bit Ensoniq synths. One is a rough, aggressive sawtooth-based tone, with two detuned saws added to a pulse-width modulated pulse wave for a shifting and thick sound with a lot of harmonics for the filters to bite into. This is intended as a very versatile "classic" synth sound, though with the inevitable artefacts and distortions of the 8-bit resolution clearly evident. The second wave is a shiny, breathy, noise-rich digital wave very typical of early 80s digital synthesisers, which lends sheen and aliasing noise to the mix. Intermediate positions on the dial blend these two waves, yielding a wide range of starting points for all kinds of synth tones.
These starting points can then be sculpted with the set of "intelligent" controls, which adjust multiple parameters behind the scenes. The Grit Filter pushes the raw sound through convolved vintage filters sampled from Wasp and MS20 circuitry, while the Smooth Filter allows for sweeps and more precise adjustments. Glow and Shimmer add movement to the sound, while Warmth adds analogue-style instability. The Glitch button musically randomises all the controls for instant inspiration and patch generation, with its intelligent algorithm biasing it towards musically useful results. Any patch you create can of course be saved.
NanoMods are all about simplicity and fun, and NanoMod 8-bit continues the tradition. It is capable of generating thousands of unique patches with a handful of intelligent controls, and best of all, it's absolutely free.
NanoMod 8-bit requires Kontakt v4.2.3 or later to run. It's compatible with all versions of Kontakt 5. More information is at Rhythmic Robot.
blewm for Windows.
Further description has been withheld by the developer in order to reduce presupposition. Awareness of this product's function and features can be safely limited to what renown it finds and curiosity.
by Z3 Audiolabs
Rez3 is a Resonator FX VST plugin, it offers a multi LFO with 6 different waveforms and an envelope follower to modulate tone, feedback, filter cutoff and filter resonance.
Further it provides 6 independent resonator voices where the first of it is the master and all others can be detuned to the master note, each voice is also equipped with a pan slider and a range button which you can use to set the detune range between one octave and one semitone.
The built in keyboard allows you to play notes directly or you can use your host sequencer or MIDI keyboard to play notes.
Rez3 is a free VST plugin and comes with 32 Presets.
by WOK
Brakeback Mangler is an audio mangler for tapestop/reverse/delay effects.
It includes a tape-stop effect, a reverse playback unit, an instant non-stop reverse sound faker and a stereo delay with filter, overdrive and forward/backward/pingpong/panner extras.
The effects are connected in row, so the tape stop or backwards effect is send thru the delay. As the delay has it's own bw-fw mode, interesting mixtures can be achieved. When delay feedback is zero, in bw-fw mode with mix to full fx only the backwards delay is present, which is then a mangled forward sound if the FAKER or BACK is on...
Update v1.1:
- knobs function is now toggle instead of momentary
- backwards play knob will switch off after play finished if MIX is not set rightmost.
by Solcito Música
Crio is a virtual analog/FM/Ring modulation synthesizer to make arpeggios, bass, solos, leads, FX-style sounds. Its goal is to achieve maximum functionality with minimal controls, to be used at studio or live, with facilities to drastically modify the sounds while playing.
The LFO has special functions for rhythmic uses, such as quantization of waveforms synchronized with tempo. For example, If the user applies tone modulation from the LFO with quantization, the resulting tones are forced to a scale, like an autotuner. An interesting result occurs when quantized noise wave is selected there.
The modulation wheel can be linked to the overall function of the LFO. Therefore, the user must use that wheel to check the importance of the sound modifications that can be done. For example, in certain presets, the player can use the modulation wheel to add automatic tone variations.
- 1 monophonic oscillator with:
noise generator
3 voices, including sub oscillator.
Frequency modulation (FM)
Ring modulation (RM)
- 1 LFO with functions of wave quantization and tempo synchronization.
- 2 filters: typical state variable filter and comb filter.
- 1 envelope generator.
- 1 amplifier with booster and saturation.
- slide tone control that applies to keyboard and tone modulation from LFO.
- MIDI learn in most of the controls.
by forward audio
fa FractionalDelay was a free phase alignment and time manipulation effect Plugin created for the KVR Developer Challenge 2014. As of March 2018 this product is deprecated and replaced by its successor faTimeAlign. For more information have a look at http://www.forward-audio.de/fatimealign/.
by SirSickSik
Dynamic Frequency Limiter is a combination of a band- peakfilter / compressor / limiter / transient designer.
The plugin scans a frequency region in the spectrum to find the dB level of this region and use it to dynamically control the volume of the same or another frequency region either (sidechained) ducking, compressing, limiting, enhance transients or everything together at the same time.
In comparison to normal compressors/limiters, which compress the whole signal or a wide band, this compressor uses biquad filters to apply the gain reduction/addition needed even if the bandwidth is just a single frequency (e.g. using it as a feedback destroyer).
The GUI is straight forward and what you see is what you get. Having learned from the former DC, I tried to keep this plugin dead simple so everybody can understand it.
The cutoff frequency and bandwidth of both the scanning of a region and the alteration of a region can be independently controlled or linked together.
The compression part of the plugin contains all the normal controls for a compressor: threshold, ratio, attack, decay, gain, which meaning should be known to all. Though, the threshold is applied to a band-filtered signal, reading the amplitude of only that frequency region. Then goes through a delay, envelope follower and clipper to calculate the gain reduction, which is then applied to a biquad peak filter. Also, the gain is not applied to the whole signal, but is added to the peak-filter's gain. Using the make-up gain (adds the inverted threshold dB to the gain) or gain knob a sustain function for a certain frequency region is created. Using short attack&release values this can make up some wild, dynamic distortions.
Using the transient knob, the attack stage becomes a transient designer. This part isn't delayed by the envelope-delay. So combining these can create a LOT of punch! Also adding boost and grid when using the plugin as a distortion.
Using the exaggerate button, the compressor ratio is multiplied by 2, creating a ducking effect when the signal surpasses the threshold amount. Combined with the transient knob, this allows for fully accentuating drum punch/hit while ducking the sustain part at the same time.
A delay on the envelope allows you to delay the gain reduction, to allow the passage of a short burst of sound before the compression kicks in.
The internal routing ends with a simple hard limiter to protect your dear speakers. Only the release time can be adjusted and the threshold is 0dB (maximum loudness)
Uses can be:
- Removing (compressing/limiting) annoying peaks in a certain frequency region without altering the volume of other regions in the spectrum.
- Feedback destroyer.
- Creating peak-controlled resonances.
- Shaping the overall envelope of sounds (excellent on both drums and synthesizers).
- Leaving a frequency region through, while blocking another.
- On short attack/decay times, all kinds of (very nasty) shapable distortions can be created. Combined with the sidechain functionality this can create lots of interesting effects.
- Maximizing loudness/sustain of a frequency region.
- Overall soundsculpting.
- Sidechaining by another channel to induce sound effects ranging from simple compressing/ducking, resonating, expanding frequency regions, dynamic distortions to audiorate AM modulation.
The sidechain switch wasn't functioning yet, do to wrong internal values. This is fixed in the V1.1 version.
V1.11 has it's knobs changed from rotary mouse-control to horizontal mouse control.
by WOK
Instretch is an instant extreme time stretcher. It will record audio for up to 30 seconds and then play it back up to 100 times slower with selectable pitch. Also manual "riding" thru the sample with endless hold of a grain is possible.
Please read the included README.
by ToneCarver
Regen is at its heart a looper plugin (a la Frippertronics) that is well suited for ambient/textural/soundscape type layering. It can be a simple looper but also offers deeper dive controls to modify playback of recorded material.
It features four independent loopers ("tracks") that are built up from individually recorded audio segments ("layers"). Recorded material in the layers and tracks can be manipulated (playback rate, direction, blend, pan, level, start offset) post-recording for creative playback. Regen accepts stereo input and supports up to 4 stereo outputs. Regen allows Undo and Redo of recorded material and supports control via MIDI.
by easytoolz
Mormox Imitate by easytoolz.de is an "Emulation" of a very new hardware-synth from Greece, called "Murmux Initate". And it has a very "simple" structure at original: 2 Oscillators with 2 waves (Saw and Pulse) with Subosc, Lowpass-Filter, simple LFO, 2 Envelopes (one AD, one ADSR)... that's all.
My "Emu" has some extra Features, indeed, I have tried to receive the brilliantly easy
- 2 OSC with Saw and Pulse, 2 Octave Tuner-knobs and FM-Modulation (Osc1 > Cutoff).
- Sub-oscillator (one Octave lower as Osc1) with Pulsewave.
- Combined Lowpass-Bandpass-Filter with Cutoff and Resonance and ADSR EG.
- LFO with Rate and Depth Pots for Oscillator or Cutoff Modulations.
- Special ADSR EG with embedded LFO/Loop (Ramp and S/H waves), the Sustain-pot regulates the intensity. Targets are the Amplifier, Oscillator Tuning or Cutoff .
- Delay section with Pan-LFO > Glide and > warm Shaper/Overdrive.
- Monophonic and only 18 Patches at moment, Sorry but my time did not reach for more.
Maybe at an Update after the DC ;)
Update to V 1.1: MIDI Controller inserted.
Update to V 1.11: Little Bug fix (Glide-Poti fixed) and little GUI (Big Potis)
There are 3 Banks with 32 New Patches each available.
from the famous Patchdesigners Kujashi aka Schiffbauer, Subderground, .
ynx and the Original-bank from NEK-X (with some new Patches, too ;-))
A total of 128 sounds ! Hope You enjoy it ....
by Acrobatics
Mate is a hands-on, simple desktop musicians friend, inspired by synthesizers of the seventies and eighties. It produces original synth tones and reproduces strings, pianos, basses, organs and bells patches with ease, but it can also explore wild and spacey atmos using its flexible modulation options and smart programming.
Tech notes:
- 32-bit ultra-optimized code, zero latency, samplerate independent engine.
- All sample rates supported.
- Each control is fully recordable and automatable in host.
- Most knobs & switches receive external MIDI control changes.
by Bernie Maier
From a few simple elements complexity can arise. Fifth Degree is a MIDI sequencer based on a simple concept: loop around the musical circle of fifths in key and tweak the performance parameters live. You can use it to create a mesmerising loop and change the way it plays or use it as a base while you improvise alongside it with another instrument. You can even use it as a convenient loop of notes while you try out different sound patches on your synthesiser.
- Lean user interface that gathers the essential performance controls on the main screen.
- Fixed sequence of notes (ascending circle of fifths).
- Outputs to CoreMIDI output ports (virtual, network and physical).
- Keeps sending MIDI while in the background.
- Can send MIDI notes and MIDI clock, so other apps can choose to synchronise.
Fifth Degree is a MIDI sequencer app supporting any CoreMIDI output: virtual MIDI, MIDI over Wi-Fi and CoreMIDI compatible hardware interfaces. Since it is a sequencer it does not generate sounds on its own, so use it with your favourite CoreMIDI-compatible sound generation app or hardware.
Fifth Degree uses the MidiBus library from Audeonic.
by Samuel Bereczky (SamBySound)
Carefully programmed set of 64 quality presets, designed for performance and soundtrack. Each of them is very responsive for MIDI informations such as velocity and ModWheel. Some of the patches included are already award winners of the Bazille Patch Competitions provided by u-he (Penizille, Land of Bazille, 6th Element). Made with joy... :)
Bazille is an incredible, top-class, modular style softsynth made by u-he, the company behind some market leading software synthesizers like Zebra2, ACE and Diva.
by beatZ
The ADD-one is a real nice little gem. Basically it is a drum machine from the 80s containing ROM samples from different drum sounds. With the help of an external disk drive users can also record their own samples. But the most interesting part is the engine behind the 12 bit converters. Analog envelopes and analog filters are used for the signal path and features like LFO and auxiliary envelopes give many possibilities to sculpt the sound of the waveform.
This unique drum machine is actually not as famous as many of its counterparts but it's getting more popular thanks to praising reviews recently published on the web.
Maybe because this piece of gear is a hard to find obscurity, there is not one sample pack dedicated to this instrument. Well, until now.
With this sample pack we present you the first drum collection exclusively made with the ADD-one. Everything is recorded directly from the output in 24-bit and 44.1 kHz. We extensively made use of the synthesis engine, the filters or the possibility to layer samples.
This package contains 420 WAV-files located in two folders.
The 4 Velocities folder contains samples recorded with four different velocities. The samples with the 1 at the end are recorded with the lowest velocity whereas the samples indicated with a 4 at the end were done with the max velocity. The numbers 2 and 3 are the velocities between as you can guess ;)
The One-Shots folder contains a nice collection of one-shot samples. We got kicks, snares, cymbals & hats, claps, percussion, toms and sounds we labeled sounds/FX. Some of them can be used together, they are the same sound treated with different pitches, envelope or filter settings. The file names and the numbers should indicate which samples belong together. (To be honest, we finished this pack on the last minute so maybe the names and numbers are a little bit chaotic. So we are!)
We hope you enjoy our work. Use these samples for your new beats and fresh tunes.
by Particular-Sound
Abstract Grooves 2 is an element loop collection made mainly out of granular samples using Native Instrument's latest Kontakt Sampler.
Every loop was recorded in 24-bit/44.1kHz and sliced in the Kontakt Sampler to use them in your tracks.
Add your own kicks, snares or claps to the loops without changing the loop itself, this is possible because we left the space free in the element loops.
To make the package complete, we made 75 Multis. Multis are layered Loops using the engine from the Kontakt Sampler by adding different effects.
- 150 Main Element Loops + variations (WAV Format).
- 75 Multis.
- Native Instrument's Kontakt Sampler 5.3.137.
by JoBroMedia
Finding samples ain't easy. This tool makes it a bit easier. Zoundle is a tool that takes the search of samples on freesound.org straight into your DAW.
It lets you search in simple mode, but it also let you go down and deep into the search process and specify things such as:
- Bit rate.
- Bit depth.
- Sample rate.
- File format.
- Channels.
- and more...
It lets you list files regards to:
- Downloads.
- Rating.
- Creation date.
- and more...
It lets you search in:
- Username.
- Filename.
- Tag.
- Geotag.
- Filename.
- Description.
- and more...
This plugin comes with 100 different presets covering several search methods.
Once the search parameters has been specified, the plugin launches the search in your Internet browser with your specified parameters.
by Ws Pro Audio
- 2 Orchestral kit.
- 2 Hip-Hop Construction Kits.
- 15 Drum Sound 120 BPM.
- 20 Hip-Hop 100 BPM drum.
- 14 Loops bonus.
by Doctor Doubledrop
Doctor Doubledrop Free Sample Pack contains over 1GB of WAV format FX samples, which are divided into one shot FX, uplifter FX and downlifter FX for any EDM style; plus a psytrance bass preset for Native Instrument Kontakt 5.
Pack description:
- 332 One shot FX- (Wav).
- 90 Uplifter FX - (Wav).
- 72 Downlifter FX - (Wav).
- 1 Psybass - (Wav-Nki-Sfz).
by Acidacide Media
MeekPro takes a stab at capturing the spirit and tones of the 50s, that's open to debate. The added feature that you will not hear on Joe Meek's recordings will be the dirt from the equipment. So I decided to put dirt in there with nice eq to capture that meek tone. The dirt is easy to control, as Joe made it seem so, enjoy.
Guitars scream and drums are amped up.
by Midi Mobiles
EcolooP is a sampler tool that integrated some originals functions for recreating a new loop, pattern or song by recycling recorded sounds or by importing custom waves file or sliced wave files (EcoWav). Allowing to create or open Pre-existent instruments. There's an administrator note mode with different possibilities to locking up sound.
A loop generator allowing to calculate tempo loop and save the informations in text files with time segments annexed to sounds files and save different data parameters for a sound...
I shall speak about it with more ample details soon.
P.S: A lot of sound files compatible with EcolooP already exist and EcolooP soundbank can be easily open for playing music with them...
Some video tutorial and documentation should follow.
The Midimobile blog is in the course of translation for Anglophiles user.
Check to my blog for download soundbanks and instructions for EcolooP.
Now, you can download the User Manual for EcolooP_Island 1.
If you are novice with EcolooP, Download EcolooPStartKit
Update 1.945 :
- New add-on to the GUI of the loop. When the loop is enabled, the display is selected (on the waveform with a red scrolled cursor to mark the position of playing of the selected sample).
- The retrigger button (orange square in a circular image) is now used to alternate the direction of playing).
- Improvement in response time when switching from a loop to another (vertical yellow buttons).
- Improvement of the internal core and CPU consumption.
Update 1.947:
- Reindexing samples (the samples 2-16 were set to 1 since the previous version).
- Fixed Gate / Trigger Sample 5.
- Tempo reconnection according to the Loop.
- Adding a new function Double-click on the setting Start / End Loop (on fine tuning slider, add compensation to the coarse setting).
- Improvement of the Count Layer (now takes the same sequence of notes with the same intensity).
- Fixed minor bug.
Update 1.951:
- Correction on separate MIDI files and drives 'all'.
- Correction on the 'midi in' of the Slot 5.
- Correction on MIDI player slot 2.
- Added function patch.pat for MIDI players (for the creation of sound banks).
- Bug on MIDI file name changes resolved files when changing program (subject to having a MIDI file for the target).
- Deletions of Triggers / Gate when the notes are not listed in the note manager (in previous versions, the fact of playing a note unlisted activated playback of the entire sample).
- Safety on MIDI players (warns the user not to name non-existent MIDI file
and off modes players when patch.pat is disabled).
- Refocusing slices windows.
- Adaptation of the yellow segments according to the Zoom and start sliders.
Update 1.952:
- Fix bug concerning the increment of Layer Count in each note-on.
- Redesign Layers options (Dynamic Layers and Count Layers).
* Ability to enable a layer for each slot by selecting the appropriate surf incon (pink and blue to dynamic and count layers)
* Counter number associated in each slot fot Count Layer (to the right of ti icon count layer in the surf blue bubble)
* The two colors can now share the text file file corresponding to the destination of the solt associated sample (mixture of two colors was violet in the earler version)
* The minimum value of the Count Layer is 1 and the maximum is the number of layers
* Start Layer matches the beginning after reset
* The layers now work correctly in 'all sample' mode:
- Review of Data Parameters (pitchoffset resolved).
- Review of Menu (deleting 'Reset All Parameters Sample').
Update 1.954:
- The 2 Layers can work together without problems now.
- New option in the 'Dynamic Layer' panel to select a range of notes in a slot.
* If you are having problems with the layers (no sound when it snaps a note). Refresh mode 'One Sample' and refresh the sample slot number:
- Correction on layer count numbers (blue bubble right of the surf icon 'Count Layer') that were unaware before the program changes. Now each program has its own layer count numbers on each slot.
Update 1.955:
- The same with the addition of the boot patch Ecoloop .fxb updated (in the EcolooP plugin repertory.
Update 1.959:
- Bug at segment transfer level to the sample mode cue start / End resolved.
- Improved MIDI triggers (sound well finished at the right time).
- The reset button resets the launch of Sample in MIDI mode.
- Fixed minor bugs.
Thank you for your interest brought to MIDImobiles plugins.
Alphabeat is a 16-step sequencer with built in samples ready to use, and customizable with your own samples - WAVE/AIFF/MP3 file types.
Built-in Frequency filter, Reverb, Delay and Compressors with DSP Scripting from Software Designer and MAX/MSP contributor.
The Rewire should be OK, but there's been an issue with several DAWs. Although the standalone mode would give you satisfaction.
This is Lite, and built specially for KVR Audio Challenge 2014.
by Max Brezhestovski
StepFilterDC2014 is a filter effect VST plug-in for Windows.
by Strainwave
X3 MIDI is a virtual analog synthesizer to emulate acoustic instruments and allow creation of infinite sounds.
To use X3MIDI you will need to test first the built in presets, you will need to use the VU meter indicate -10db any time you play so if you like to design your sounds it's the only restriction.
It is designed for musicians of all instruments, they can discover aspects they do not usually approach and "transform an instrument to another, " flute to cello, clarinet to piano, etc., never far to another or two.
"Only fresh wave", no LFO, only shapes and range, a sinusoidal sound beyond all the acoustic parameters reduced to the phase and the note length for repaint the sound image of the instruments.
We do not yet know if it is capable of doing all the orchestra but it's made as it was intended at this performance.
"the controls stay below the interface, not the old analog with scientific words."
More at x3midi.com.
We released new user manuals and new presets at strainwave
One year celebration for Strainwave.
Since August 2013 Strainwave creates analogic vsti.
05 .09 .2014 : click here download X3MIDI NEW VERSION.
Presets, now you can add new sound packs.
at kvr "banks & patches"
New :
Strainwave latest sound pack : X3midi ACOUSTIC PACK.
acoustic : Harpsichord, Altowood2, Altochords, Stringharp,
Piano key, 7piano, String6, Nylon5, Harp
fxp pack2 include 15 synth, 8 acoustic ;
Sax, piano, Nkey, Nflute,
Mwood, trumpet, Kstring,
fairy vibes, Nara,
Clavi organ, Space channel,
wood magic, thesis snow, etc..
pack 1 included :
18 presets 4 pianos, 4 synth, 4 winds, 4 woods, plus 2 others insts.
This plugin was created with free version of "SynthEdit", .
"obviously a design interface also exists".
by Wolf Sound
BoostComp is a Waveshaper, that can be use for distortion, boosting and compressing an input stereo signal. The source code can be downloaded from here.
Advanced Audio + Application Exchange
New this year is a grand prize from KVR Audio and A3E (Advanced Audio + Application Exchange). The winning developer will have the opportunity to present their entry at the A3E show in Boston, September 23-24, 2014!
The winning developer will be provided with transportation to Boston, two nights stay at one of the A3E host hotels for the nights of Monday, September 22 and Tuesday, September 23, 2014. The winner will also receive a complimentary A3E Audio Developer Conference pass, special recognition on the A3E website and at the A3E event in Boston, as well as a dedicated announcement and press release to A3E's global industry communities.
Rules, Information, Guidelines, etc.
Any operating system, any plug-in format, a stand-alone application, a sound library - anything that will assist in music making goes! You have four months to get it together - submissions will end on July 31st, 2014. They will all then be hosted for download on the KVR server and released "AT ONCE" for public appraisal and voting!
Although anything goes, you should consider how to appeal to the largest market - things such as open source or being multi-platform may garner a bigger audience, and consequently more votes. This is your call though. Whatever you are comfortable with!
The Basics:
- Anyone may enter.
- Your entry must be an original creation made by you (your team / crew / company / family). Of course you may reuse code / modules / development frameworks, but the actual plug-in / application / sound library should be a new, original creation, not just an obviously cut-down subset of a program you have already written.
- Your entry must not break any copyright rules or license agreements - if your entry uses GPL code then your code should adhere to any restrictions imposed by this, for example.
- Your entry must not be restricted in any way that could make it appear to be a demo / trial version for a subsequent "full" release. i.e. It must not be save-disabled or beep every few seconds or nag the user to donate / pay, etc. Your entry should be fully functioning and remain fully functioning forever.
- Your entry may support any operating system(s) in general use for making music: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, iOS or Android.
- Your entry may support any plug-in format, or be a stand alone application / utility, or be a sound / sample library.
- You may use any programming language or development environment (e.g. programming languages such as C++, Delphi, Java, etc. or any of the myriad development applications such as SynthEdit, SynthMaker, Max, etc.).
- Design and testing must be done in private - public beta testing is not allowed as this may affect the voting process.
- During the voting period you may update your entry but updates must be bug fixes ONLY. You are NOT allowed to add new features or rework existing ones during the voting period.
- You grant KVRaudio.com the permission to distribute your entry for download via our server from August 1st, 2014, onwards.
- You grant KVRaudio.com the permission to act on your behalf, without monetary involvement, for your entry to be published and/or publicized in/on written publications with or without accompanied media such as CDs and DVDs, as well as online publications. You may choose to opt out via a written (email) disapproval of such permission at the time of your entry. KVRaudio.com will not seek or make attempts at financial gain by promoting your entries on written or online publications.
How To Enter:
- To enter you will need a KVR Developer Account [get one here - it's free]. If you already manage your products and submit news directly at KVR, you will already have one.
- Access the Developer Control area and add your entry as a new product but remember to also set the KVRDC14 flag. Anything flagged as KVRDC14 will NOT be made live on KVR until the KVRDC14 go live date of August, 2014.
- KVR Members will vote for their favourite entries between August 1st-25th, 2014. Depending on the amount of submissions, the voting period (and consequently the winner announcement date) may be extended for another week or so. All KVR members will be eligible to vote although we may instigate some restrictions at the time of voting - maximum joined date, minimum number of posts, etc. - to help prevent voter fraud.
- Voting will be in the form of selecting a top 5:
- 1st choice will be awarded 5 points.
- 2nd choice will be awarded 4 points.
- 3rd choice will be awarded 3 points.
- 4th choice will be awarded 2 points.
- 5th choice will be awarded 1 point.
- The winners will be announced on August 26th, 2014.
- The prize fund will be delivered to the winners (or charity or recipient of the winners' choices) via PayPal within a week of the winner being announced.
The Prize Fund (Money Money Money)
- The prize will be cold, hard, cash, made up from donations from the KVR community. Donations can be made via PayPal and will be held in escrow by KVR Audio until the winner has been selected. The prize will be paid to the eventual winner via PayPal. We'll endeavor to keep the prize fund total updated here.
- The prize fund will be split:
- 30% to the Windows Plug-in or Standalone Application entry with the most votes 1, 2
- 30% to the Mac OS X Plug-in or Standalone Application entry with the most votes 1, 2
- 20% to the next highest placed entry
- 10% to the highest placed Soundware entry
- 10% to a wild card random selection (maybe an iOS or Android entry, if we get any!)
- Additional prizes, donated by fellow developers, will also be available and distributed on an ad-hoc basis. If you wish to donate something please contact firstname.lastname@example.com
1 These can be the same entry. If it is multi-format and gets the most votes the entrant would receive 60% of the prize fund.
2 Yes we know Linux (and other OS) appears to be overlooked but the Linux (and other OS) userbase at KVR is very small so we'll concentrate prize distribution on the two major Operating Systems for audio production - Windows and Mac OS X. However, in the event of the unlikely situation that the entry with the most votes is for Linux (or another OS) only it will be awarded 30% of the prize fund and the next 40% will be split between the highest placed Windows and Mac OS X entries (20% each) and the "next highest placed entry" will receive 10% instead of 20%.
Good Luck!


text:
October 18, 2012
LAWT Staff Report
When light rail trains on the Crenshaw/LAX Line begin gliding through the heart of South Los Angeles toward one of the world's busiest airports, they will ferry more than commuters eager for faster transit through some of the region's most vibrant cultural enclaves and emerging commercial districts. They are also expected to spark economic development and improved mobility, in areas where there is an increasing demand for transit alternatives.
Service on the Crenshaw/LAX Line is due to start in late 2018, giving commuters direct access to Metro's growing network of subway and light rail lines serving downtown, East and West L.A., Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley. Just as importantly, the line will transport riders from those areas into South L.A. and neighboring communities served by the Crenshaw/LAX Line.
Linking the existing Exposition and Green Lines, Crenshaw/LAX trains will provide service to six confirmed stations: Crenshaw/Exposition, Crenshaw/Martin Luther King Jr., Crenshaw/Slauson, Florence/West, Florence/La Brea and Aviation/ Century. Metro planners are also working actively to secure funding for a stop in Leimert Park Village.
To outgoing Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Michael S. Jones, the possibilities are endless. Having served for two years on the Crenshaw/LAX Leadership Council, which he praises for "providing the community with a way to voice its concerns," Jones has had the opportunity to become very familiar with plans for the rail line.
As the leader of an organization devoted to economic development in the Crenshaw Corridor, Jones welcomes the Crenshaw/LAX Line for both the jobs it will create, and the new customers it will deliver. His sense of possibility is heightened by firsthand experience with how improved rail service has benefited other parts of Los Angeles.
"I've been on the Expo Line between Culver City and downtown, and I think the Crenshaw/LAX Line is really going to be just as beneficial in connecting Crenshaw to the rest of the city," he said. "The Crenshaw economy is coming back, and the rail line will be a magnet to bring more people in to experience that. The line will certainly allow people to have a cultural experience, by visiting the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, Eso Won Books in Leimert Park Village, Lula Washington Dance Theatre, and Post & Beam Restaurant — just to name a few. I can't say enough about how that [area] has been transformed with free concerts, top restaurants and other new businesses."
Indeed, the job-creating capacity of the Crenshaw/LAX Line will be in evidence long before the train begins carrying passengers on its 8.5-mile route through South L.A., Inglewood, Hawthorne, El Segundo and sections of unincorporated L.A. County.
More than a thousand construction, manufacturing and other jobs will be generated as the Crenshaw/LAX Line is being built. For its part, Metro is setting aside a substantial portion of employment opportunities for workers living in economically disadvantaged areas, with job-training assistance and apprenticeships standing as key elements of that commitment to targeted hiring of local workers.
Minority and women contractors are encouraged to take advantage of Metro's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program, which provides opportunities for small businesses to win contracts during the Crenshaw/LAX construction phase.
The potential for jobs and development excites stakeholders throughout the area, who expect the rail service to bring an economic boost to their communities.
"With the Crenshaw LAX line, we hope to attract entertainment, retail and housing to downtown Market Street, which would have the same feel as Old Town Pasadena," said Inglewood Mayor James Butts. He calls the rail line "a good opportunity" to spur economic activity in areas that city leaders have eyed for years as potential engines of commercial development.
The start of construction can't come quickly enough for Larry Robinson, who owns and operates a Jamaican restaurant near one of the planned Crenshaw/LAX stations. "I am happy to hear there is going to be a stop at Florence and La Brea. It will definitely bring more foot traffic around here, so I'm looking forward to that bringing me some new customers," said Robinson, 51. "It's what we need around here — more business, more foot traffic. And there'll be construction, so we look forward to feeding work crews. I'm getting excited about it."
In the Crenshaw District, barber Bryant Noldon, 24, predicts he will be "cutting more hair" once the train starts to roll by his shop near Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. "It will make transportation easier and more reliable," he said. "I think it will be very positive. It will help people get around more easily from Hollywood to the opposite side in the El Segundo area. The more transportation, the better."
Population growth in Los Angeles County has resulted in dramatic increases in traffic across the Crenshaw Corridor — a trend that experts predict will, within the next two decades, lead to rush-hour automobile traffic that moves slower than 18 miles per hour. When traveling at street level, the Crenshaw/LAX Line could reach a steady pace of up to 35 miles per hour.
For 22-year-old Joneil Robinson, the prospect of a speedier commute is no less than life-changing. The mother of two children under five-years-old, she uses Metro as her primary mode of transportation, explaining that she takes buses and trains "everywhere." A resident of Mid-City West, Robinson rides at least two buses each day to her job as a youth organizer, at a location close to a planned stop on the Crenshaw/LAX Line.
"A rail stop at Florence and West would make my life so much more convenient, just for the simple fact that this new rail line will be faster and more accessible for me," said Robinson. "Economically, a train would help businesses, because it would bring in a lot more people. The train would impact everybody's lives."

subset: commoncrawl


text:
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Hispanic Festival
Hispanic Festival
2020 Festival
Sunday, September 20, 2020
12 noon - 5 p.m.
Lane Manor Park
7601 West Park Drive (off University Boulevard)
Adelphi, MD 20783
Bring the family and celebrate the rich heritage of our Hispanic communities! From carnival games, crafts, entertainment, delicious ethnic food and more, there's something for everyone. Bring a friend or neighbor and enjoy the day. Patrons can enjoy free admission and transportation to the festival.
Contact Information
Arts and Crafts Vendors:
contact Leigh Ann Eckenrode
Entertainment Main Stage:
contact Carlos Ocasio
Exhibitors (Government/Non-Profit Organizations):
contact Antoinette Guerry
Food Vendors:
contact Lourdes Sulc
Sponsorship Opportunities:
contact Eric Smith
For other inquiries or general information about the Festival,
contact Cheryl Moran
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text:
2013 Big Screen Movie Preview
Sponsored By
Filed Under: Features, Photo Galleries
- Gangster Squad (January 11)Los Angeles, 1949. Ruthless, Brooklyn-born mob king Mickey Cohen (Sean Penn) runs the show in this town, reaping the ill-gotten gains from the drugs, the guns, the prostitutes and--if he has his way--every wire bet placed west of Chicago. And he does it all with the protection of not only his own paid goons, but also the police and the politicians who are under his control. It's enough to intimidate even the bravest, street-hardened cop...except, perhaps, for the small, secret crew of LAPD outsiders led by Sgt. John O'Mara (Josh Brolin) and Jerry Wooters (Ryan Gosling), who come together to try to tear Cohen's world apart. "The Gangster Squad" is a colorful retelling of events surrounding the LAPD's efforts to take back their nascent city from one of the most dangerous mafia bosses of all time.
(credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)
- Zero Dark Thirty (January 11)For a decade, an elite team of intelligence and military operatives, working in secret across the globe, devoted themselves to a single goal: to find and eliminate Osama bin Laden. "Zero Dark Thirty" reunites the Oscar® winning team of director-producer Kathryn Bigelow and writer-producer Mark Boal ("The Hurt Locker") for the story of history's greatest manhunt for the world's most dangerous man.
(credit: Columbia Pictures)
- The Last Stand (January 18)Schwarzenegger stars as Sheriff Owens, a man who has resigned himself to a life of fighting what little crime takes place in sleepy border town Sommerton Junction after leaving his LAPD post following a bungled operation that left him wracked with failure and defeat after his partner was crippled. After a spectacular escape from an FBI prisoner convoy, the most notorious, wanted drug kingpin in the hemisphere is hurtling toward the border at 200 mph in a specially outfitted car with a hostage and a fierce army of gang members. He is headed, it turns out, straight for Summerton Junction, where the whole of the U.S. law enforcement will have their last opportunity to make a stand and intercept him before he slips across the border forever. At first reluctant to become involved, and then counted out because of the perceived ineptitude of his small town force, Owens ultimately accepts responsibility for one of the most daring face offs in cinema history.
(credit: Lionsgate)
- Warm Bodies (February 1)A funny new twist on a classic love story, "Warm Bodies" is a poignant tale about the power of human connection. After a zombie epidemic, R (a highly unusual zombie) encounters Julie (a human survivor), and rescues her from a zombie attack. Julie sees that R is different from the other zombies, and as the two form a special relationship in their struggle for survival, R becomes increasingly more human – setting off an exciting, romantic, and often comical chain of events that begins to transform the other zombies and maybe even the whole lifeless world.
(credit: Summit Entertainment)
- Beautiful Creatures (February 13)A supernatural love story set in the South, "Beautiful Creatures" tells the tale of two star-crossed lovers: Ethan (Alden Ehrenreich), a young man longing to escape his small town, and Lena (Alice Englert), a mysterious new girl. Together, they uncover dark secrets about their respective families, their history and their town.
(credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)
- A Good Day To Die Hard (February 14)Since the first "Die Hard" in 1988, John McClane has found himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, with the skills and attitude to always be the last man standing, making him enemy #1 for terrorists the world over. Now, McClane faces his greatest challenge ever, this time on an international stage, when his estranged son Jack is caught up in the daring prison escape of a rogue Russian leader, and father and son McClane must work together to keep each other alive and keep the world safe for democracy.
(credit: 20th Century Fox)
- Safe Haven (February 14)An affirming and suspenseful story about a young woman's struggle to love again, "Safe Haven" is based on the novel from Nicholas Sparks, the best-selling author behind the hit films "The Notebook" and "Dear John." When a mysterious young woman arrives in a small North Carolina town, her reluctance to join the tight knit community raises questions about her past. Slowly, she begins putting down roots, and gains the courage to start a relationship with Alex, a widowed store owner with two young children. But dark secrets intrude on her new life with such terror that she is forced to rediscover the meaning of sacrifice and rely on the power of love in this deeply moving romantic thriller.
(credit: Relativity Media)
- Oz The Great & Powerful (March 8)Disney's fantastical adventure "Oz The Great and Powerful," directed by Sam Raimi, imagines the origins of L. Frank Baum's beloved character, the Wizard of Oz. When Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a small-time circus magician with dubious ethics, is hurled away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he's hit the jackpot--fame and fortune are his for the taking--that is until he meets three witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz) and Glinda (Michelle Williams), who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone's been expecting. Reluctantly drawn into the epic problems facing the Land of Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it is too late. Putting his magical arts to use through illusion, ingenuity--and even a bit of wizardry--Oscar transforms himself not only into the great and powerful Wizard of Oz but into a better man as well.
(credit: Walt Disney Pictures)
- G.I. Joe: Retaliation (March 29)In this sequel, the G.I. Joes are not only fighting their mortal enemy Cobra; they are forced to contend with threats from within the government that jeopardize their very existence. The film stars D.J. Cotrona, Byung-hun Lee, Adrianne Palicki, Ray Park, Jonathan Pryce, Ray Stevenson, Channing Tatum with Bruce Willis and Dwayne Johnson. Directed by Jon M. Chu, and produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura and Brian Goldner, from a screenplay by Rhett Reese & Paul Wernick based on Hasbro's G.I. Joe characters.
(credit: Paramount Pictures)
- Iron Man 3 (May 3)Marvel Studios' "Iron Man 3" pits brash-but-brilliant industrialist Tony Stark/Iron Man against an enemy whose reach knows no bounds. When Stark finds his personal world destroyed at his enemy's hands, he embarks on a harrowing quest to find those responsible. This journey, at every turn, will test his mettle. With his back against the wall, Stark is left to survive by his own devices, relying on his ingenuity and instincts to protect those closest to him. As he fights his way back, Stark discovers the answer to the question that has secretly haunted him: does the man make the suit or does the suit make the man?
(credit: Walt Disney Pictures/Marvel Studios)
- The Great Gatsby (May 10)"The Great Gatsby" follows Fitzgerald-like, would-be writer Nick Carraway as he leaves the Midwest and comes to New York City in the spring of 1922, an era of loosening morals, glittering jazz and bootleg kings. Chasing his own American Dream, Nick lands next door to a mysterious, party-giving millionaire, Jay Gatsby, and across the bay from his cousin, Daisy, and her philandering, blue-blooded husband, Tom Buchanan. It is thus that Nick is drawn into the captivating world of the super rich, their illusions, loves and deceits. As Nick bears witness, within and without the world he inhabits, he pens a tale of impossible love, incorruptible dreams and high-octane tragedy, and holds a mirror to our own modern times and struggles.
(credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)
- Star Trek: Into Darkness (May 17)In the wake of a shocking act of terror from within their own organization, the crew of The Enterprise is called back home to Earth. In defiance of regulations and with a personal score to settle, Captain Kirk leads his crew on a manhunt to capture an unstoppable force of destruction and bring those responsible to justice. As our heroes are propelled into an epic chess game of life and death, love will be challenged, friendships will be torn apart, and sacrifices must be made for the only family Kirk has left: his crew.
(credit: Paramount Pictures)
- Man of Steel (June 14)Henry Cavill plays Superman in director Zack Snyder's "Man of Steel." The film also stars Amy Adams as Daily Planet journalist Lois Lane, and Laurence Fishburne as her editor-in-chief, Perry White. Starring as Clark Kent's adoptive parents, Martha and Jonathan Kent, are Diane Lane and Kevin Costner.
Squaring off against the superhero are two other surviving Kryptonians, the villainous General Zod, played by Michael Shannon, and Faora, Zod's evil partner, played by Antje Traue. Also from Superman's native Krypton are Lara Lor-Van, Superman's mother, played by Ayelet Zurer, and Superman's father, Jor-El, portrayed by Russell Crowe. Rounding out the cast are Harry Lennix as U.S. military man General Swanwick, as well as Christopher Meloni as Colonel Hardy.
(credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)
- Monsters University (June 21)Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan are an inseparable pair, but that wasn't always the case. From the moment these two mismatched monsters met they couldn't stand each other. "Monsters University" unlocks the door to how Mike and Sulley overcame their differences and became the best of friends.
(credit: Disney-Pixar)
- World War Z (June 21)Based on Max Brooks' best-selling novel "World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War," the story revolves around United Nations employee Gerry Lane (Pitt), who traverses the world in a race against time to stop the Zombie pandemic that is toppling armies and governments and threatening to decimate humanity itself. Enos plays Gerry's wife Karen Lane; Kertesz is his comrade in arms, Segen.
(credit: Paramount Pictures)
- The Lone Ranger (July 3)From producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Gore Verbinski, the filmmaking team behind the blockbuster "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise, comes Disney/Jerry Bruckheimer Films' "The Lone Ranger," a thrilling adventure infused with action and humor, in which the famed masked hero is brought to life through new eyes. Native American spirit warrior Tonto (Johnny Depp) recounts the untold tales that transformed John Reid (Armie Hammer), a man of the law, into a legend of justice—taking the audience on a runaway train of epic surprises and humorous friction as the two unlikely heroes must learn to work together and fight against greed and corruption.
(credit: Walt Disney Pictures)
- Pacific Rim (July 12)From acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro comes Warner Bros. Pictures' and Legendary Pictures' sci-fi action adventure "Pacific Rim." When legions of monstrous creatures, known as Kaiju, started rising from the sea, a war began that would take millions of lives and consume humanity's resources for years on end. To combat the giant Kaiju, a special type of weapon was devised: massive robots, called Jaegers, which are controlled simultaneously by two pilots whose minds are locked in a neural bridge. But even the Jaegers are proving nearly defenseless in the face of the relentless Kaiju. On the verge of defeat, the forces defending mankind have no choice but to turn to two unlikely heroes—a washed up former pilot and an untested trainee who are teamed to drive a legendary but seemingly obsolete Jaeger from the past. Together, they stand as mankind's last hope against the mounting apocalypse.
(credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)
- The Wolverine (July 26)Based on the celebrated comic book arc, "The Wolverine" finds Logan, the eternal warrior and outsider, in Japan. There, samurai steel will clash with adamantium claw as Logan confronts a mysterious figure from his past in an epic battle that will leave him forever changed.
(credit: 20th Century Fox)
- Smurfs 2 (July 13)In this sequel to the hybrid live action/animated family blockbuster comedy The Smurfs, the evil wizard Gargamel creates a couple of mischievous Smurf-like creatures called the Naughties that he hopes will let him harness the all-powerful, magical Smurf-essence. But when he discovers that only a real Smurf can give him what he wants — and only a secret spell that Smurfette knows can turn the Naughties into real Smurfs — Gargamel kidnaps Smurfette and brings her to Paris, where he has been winning the adoration of millions as the world's greatest sorcerer. It's up to Papa, Clumsy, Grouchy, and Vanity to return to our world, reunite with their human friends Patrick and Grace Winslow, and rescue her! Will Smurfette, who has always felt different from the other Smurfs, find a new connection with the Naughties Vexy and Hackus – or will the Smurfs convince her that their love for her is True Blue?
(credit: Sony Pictures Animation)
- The Tomb (September 27)Action superstars Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger team up in the action-thriller "The Tomb." Ray Breslin (Stallone), the world's foremost authority on structural security, agrees to take on one last job: breaking out of an ultra-secret, high-tech facility called "The Tomb." But when he is wrongly imprisoned, he must recruit fellow inmate Emil Rottmayer (Schwarzenegger) to help devise a daring, nearly impossible plan to escape from the most protected and fortified prison ever built.
(credit: Summit Entertainment)
- Thor: The Dark World (November 8)Marvel's "Thor: The Dark World" continues the big-screen adventures of Thor, the Mighty Avenger, as he battles to save Earth and all the Nine Realms from a shadowy enemy that predates the universe itself. In the aftermath of Marvel's "Thor" and "Marvel's The Avengers," Thor fights to restore order across the cosmos...but an ancient race led by the vengeful Malekith returns to plunge the universe back into darkness. Faced with an enemy that even Odin and Asgard cannot withstand, Thor must embark on his most perilous and personal journey yet, one that will reunite him with Jane Foster and force him to sacrifice everything to save us all.
(credit: Walt Disney Pictures/Marvel Studios)
- The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (November 22)"The Hunger Games: Catching Fire" begins as Katniss Everdeen has returned home safe after winning the 74th Annual Hunger Games along with fellow tribute Peeta Mellark. Winning means that they must turn around and leave their family and close friends, embarking on a "Victor's Tour' of the districts. Along the way Katniss senses that a rebellion is simmering, but the Capitol is still very much in control as President Snow prepares the 75th Annual Hunger Games (The Quarter Quell) - a competition that could change Panem forever.
(credit: Lionsgate)
- The Hobbit: The Desolaton of Smaug (December 13)"The Hobbit" follows the journey of title character Bilbo Baggins, who is swept into an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor, which was long ago conquered by the dragon Smaug. Approached out of the blue by the wizard Gandalf the Grey, Bilbo finds himself joining a company of thirteen dwarves led by the legendary warrior, Thorin Oakensheild. Their journey will take them into the Wild; through treacherous lands swarming with Goblins and Orcs, deadly Wargs and Giant Spiders, Shapeshifters and Sorcerers.
Although their goal lies to the East and the wastelands of the Lonely Mountain first they must escape the goblin tunnels, where Bilbo meets the creature that will change his life forever... Gollum.
Here, alone with Gollum, on the shores of an underground lake, the unassuming Bilbo Baggins not only discovers depths of guile and courage that surprise even him, he also gains possession of Gollum's "precious" ring that holds unexpected and useful qualities... A simple, gold ring that is tied to the fate of all Middle-earth in ways Bilbo cannot begin to know.
(credit: New Line Cinema)
- Anchorman: The Legend Continues (December 20)A sequel to 2004's "Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy." Will Ferrell, will return to the title role with supporting cast members Steve Carell and Paul Rudd said to be involved as well. The original film also starred Christina Applegate, David Koechner, Fred Willard, Fred Armisen, Chris Parnell and many more.
(credit: Paramount Pictures)
- Jack Ryan (December 25)Based on the Jack Ryan character created by bestselling author Tom Clancy, the film is a contemporary action thriller set in the present day. The original story, written by David Koepp, follows a young Jack as he uncovers a financial terrorist plot.
(credit: Paramount Pictures)
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No one would ever accuse West End apartment dweller Iris Dias of being neighbourly.
"It already feels like I've lost a piece of privacy living in an apartment," said Dias, 31, a public relations professional who describes herself as a "really private person."
"So to give up more of that and get to know my neighbours ... really feels a little bit too invasive for me," she explained. "Also I never have sugar and I don't want them coming over and asking for sugar."
Dias said she has no problem chatting casually with neighbours in an elevator, but feels no desire to learn their names or which unit they live in.
"You already hear so much of their lives, especially your immediate next-door neighbours. I don't need to put ... a face to all the noise that I'm hearing, be it arguments or sexy times or anything like that."
About a third of Metro residents, like Dias, have little interest in getting to know their neighbours, according to a Vancouver Foundation study on community connections released earlier this week.
Relationships with neighbours, when they exist at all, tend to be superficial, said the Vancouver Foundation's Catherine Clement.
"Of course there's always exceptions and blocks ... which are very different, but in general we have these cordial relationships [that are] not very deep," she said. "We kind of hear this lament from people about wanting to feel closer to their neighbours."
Three-quarters of Metro residents know the first names of at least two immediate neighbours, the survey suggests, but about the same proportion of respondents said they have never had their neighbours over or been invited socially to a neighbour's residence. A little more than half (57 per cent) have never done a favour for a neighbour such as collecting their newspaper or watering plants while they are away, a figure that jumps to 77 per cent among those who live in highrises.
When asked about the obstacles to getting to know people on their street or floor, the highest number of people said it was because they seldom see them, followed by a lack of interest in getting to know them. Just five per cent cited language as a barrier.
Residents of apartments and condos were the least likely to know their neighbours' names and among the least likely to socialize with neighbours or know where their spare key is, according to an analysis of the survey results by Sentis Research. People who live in suites in houses generally reported even less engagement with neighbours.
This may suit people like Dias fine, but Surrey residents Dean and Amanda Inglis wish the residents of their Guildford-area apartment complex were a bit more social.
"It feels to me like people almost seem like they're kind of scared to try to have a sense of community for some reason," said Dean. "It'd be kind of nice if it had that ... homey-type feeling."
Amanda said she doesn't trust her neighbours primarily because she doesn't know them. After working full time, looking after her children and taking care of household chores, "there's just not a lot of time to be social," she said.
She would certainly not feel comfortable asking any of her neighbours to watch her two young children for five minutes, nor would she let them play in common areas of the complex without supervision. In their last complex, events like backyard barbecues brought people together and Amanda said that while she has asked her current building manager about arranging something similar, little has come of it.
When asked what prevents people in the complex from being social beyond a quick hello in the hallway, Amanda chalked it up to a fear of rejection.
"I think maybe it's a fear of the unknown ... Am I going to be met with the same sort of enthusiasm saying, 'Hey, I'd like to get to know you' or am I going to get a door slammed in my face?"
There is some risk involved in putting yourself out there, but it's worth taking if it helps build the kind of neighbourhood you want to live in, said Commercial Drive-area resident Inge Mueller-Langer, who said she knows almost all her neighbours.
One of Mueller-Langer's passions is gardening and when she is in the front yard tending the plants, she will greet almost everyone who walks by on the street and strike up a conversation.
"It's sort of a willingness to try and a willingness to take a risk. I've always been that kind of a person, so I'm willing to try," she said, adding that it doesn't always work and she's had some bad experiences. But "I so don't want to live in a place where it's not okay to do that," she said.
Mueller-Langer believes that a galvanizing event can be the catalyst for getting people out of their individual homes and talking. This happened in her neighbourhood last year when the Vancouver park board wanted to cut down 30 elm trees lining East Sixth Avenue.
Many residents had moved to the street partly because of the trees and were passionate about saving them, Mueller-Langer said. It was a tiring process fraught with endless meetings, but in the end the group was able to sit down with the park board and hammer out an agreement. In the end, only nine of the trees were cut down and new seedlings planted.
In the process, Mueller-Langer said, she met many people — including one who has become a good friend — that she would have never otherwise encountered.
"A common passion ... will force people out of their shells and will force them to put a step forward," she said.
"If people just tried to maybe take a little step even just in their ... neighbourhood, whatever it might be; making sure that that homeless guy gets a meal and let's all take turns.
"The ripple effect of all of this is immeasurable."
Visit our database of survey responses here.
Read the five-part series "Growing Apart" here.


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Jessica Jessie — Babe of the Day
Jessica's a 29-year-old bikini fitness competitor, personal trainer, and nutritionist from Rockville, Maryland who used to be a cheerleader for the Redskins.
The girl so nice they named her twice went to Virginia Commonwealth University on a soccer scholarship, but was booted off the team her sophomore year for partying too much. Since then she's appeared in FHM, Stuff, Oxygen, Muscle & Fitness and WWE magazines in addition to a Hooters calendar.
The former Miss Hawaiian Tropic Washington D.C. has also competed in the IFBB's Miss Bikini Olympia (twice) and became a spokesmodel for SAN Nutrition.
Give your eyeballs a workout with a healthy dose of her fittest and finest pics below.
Age: 29 | Location: Rockville, MD | Ht: 5′ 8″ | Wt: 115 lbs | Measurements: 34DD-24-34
See more of Jessica on Facebook | Twitter | her Official Site | ModelMayhem


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Erin Enguero
President's Scholar
College of Applied Sciences & Arts
Why did you choose your major?
I was a sophomore in high school when I first became interested in physical therapy. My mom underwent surgery for a severe foot infection in 2008, which coincided with the time my father lost his engineering job. As I watched my mom struggle to walk and my dad search for a new job, I reflected on a career that would make an impact on other people's lives and would be a stable profession. I already knew that I loved the feeling of making a difference whether through the school government, or within my local community. When my mom learned how to walk independently again and my dad found work, the novelty of physical therapy stayed with me.
Volunteering at Fremont Kaiser Permanente in my senior year of high school sealed the deal: While running the hospital gift shop, I would often meet lonely customers who were eager to share their life stories. It was easy to see that my personality flourished within the medical setting. I could not imagine spending the rest of my life working at a desk job for seven hours straight so it was clear that Kinesiology was the perfect fit!
What does receiving this particular award mean to you?
This award was a very pleasant surprise. As a sophomore commuting student, I have slowly navigated through campus, learning the ropes of college life. Upon entering SJSU in Fall 2011, I had no idea that the Kinesiology department was well connected between the staff, students, and their four KIN campus organizations. I began to find ways to get involved within the KIN community because I enjoyed the laughter and learning experiences. Therefore I am very honored to be named a Presidents Scholar.
Who has been instrumental in your life and/or who has contributed to your academic success?
As a hard of hearing student, I have been very lucky to have two special individuals who encouraged me to succeed despite my sensory disability. The very first is Fremont Unified School District Hearing Specialist Lynda Koraltan, who ensured I was provided the assisted hearing devices for my K-12 education. Her positive attitude taught me how to be grateful for my strengths rather than dwell on my weaknesses. Jinea Yoshimura, my audiologist, has been a great support as well. It wasn't just my challenges as a hard of hearing student that we would discuss while she would adjust my hearing aids, but life in general.
Upon reaching SJSU, I acquired a third mentor, Rachel Vimont, DPT. Working as one of her student aides has taught me how to be a professional while maintaining a friendly atmosphere for patients. I continue to learn something new each day and I am grateful for the commitment she holds for her students.
And of course, there are my parents who have been on this journey with me from the very beginning. They grew up on opposite ends of the spectrum, with my father living in the Philippines until he was 27, and a mother who traveled across the continents with her military family. My parents have taught me to never take things for granted despite the obstacles one may face. Instead, it is best to push for as far as talents can reach - the sky is the limit!
Did you overcome any hardships or adversities during your life, that has helped shape who you are today? And if so, could you please briefly elaborate?
I was born with a bilateral genetic hearing loss and started wearing hearing aides in the 5th grade. I still remember the faint pang of disappointment when I discovered that my new hearing devices merely amplified every squeak and shuffle rather than completely cure my hearing difficulties. However, I learned that instead of focusing on my insecure social navigations, it was more rewarding to vent a positive energy towards volunteering to benefit my community. By the time I graduated from high school, I transformed into an independent and confident hard of hearing individual.
However, I continued to face challenges in my transition to SJSU, mainly advocating for my equal access to educational. I appealed to the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) for an alternative FM system that was best suited to my needs. To my utter relief, I was successful! Knowing that professors have hundreds of students in the course of a single year, it was also important that I introduce myself to my instructors to ensure their familiarity with my assisted hearing device, as well as the captioning services I was able utilize from the DRC. I am often the first hard of hearing student a professor has come across and it is humbling to realize that while they teach me of the great ancient civilizations, I am able to teach them about living life with a hearing loss!
Despite my hearing loss, I am proud to say that these past two years at SJSU has been filled with many exciting experiences. The Humanities Honors Program and upcoming Salzburg Scholarship for 2013-2014 have opened my eyes to the diversity of the world - a very important lesson as a future health professional. I am also grateful for the opportunities to contribute to the SJSU Kinesiology Department Blog and to make a difference for my fellow peers as a KIN club officer. I have also been very lucky to share my story with the Fremont Unified School Board in Spring 2011 as well as the California State University William Randolph Trustee Scholarship Committee in Fall 2012. I am grateful to have another opportunity to do so as a Presidents Scholar!
Most importantly, my hearing loss has taught me that we all have the capacity to overcome our challenges and strive for excellence - it's just a matter of finding that inner strength to move forward.
What would you say to other students to encourage or inspire them to attain academic excellence?
Stay positive. Life has the tendency to knock us off our feet and just when we think one challenge is over, the next comes along with a vengeance. Yet whether its joyful, disheartening, exciting or just plain embarrassing, every lesson is a valuable learning experience. We are here at SJSU in hopes of not only educating ourselves on how to make a living, but to make a difference one day in the lives of others. Surround yourself with positive people to support you when you are going through a rough time or when there is a call for celebration. I have been very lucky to be in a major filled with peers who support one another; I wish the same for every student lucky enough to be receiving a college education. Learning is truly a privilege because knowledge empowers us not only to attain academic excellence, but to make a difference!
Where would you like to be in 5-10 years?
At this time, my goal is to earn a doctor in physical therapy. I am also beginning to realize that Kinesiology is a growing field and that there are many unique avenues to contribute to public health. One thing for sure, is that I hope to be a member of the medical field.
One day, I also aspire to be an advocate for young hard of hearing students and write a book about my experiences. Either way, I am truly looking forward to my next adventure around the corner!
A few words from her nominating professor:
"She is an outstanding student, was recently selected to receive the CSU William Randolph Hearst Trustee Award for SJSU and was named Trustee William Hauck Scholar. She is also Treasurer of the Pre Physical Therapy Club and is hearing impaired but never lets that stop her!"
- Professor Shirley Reekie


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EAST COUNTY — Stephen King has found his way to the East County.
No, it's not the famous author, whose novels have captivated readers for decades.
But King, who hails from Tusla, Okla., is partly responsible for helping to install a large red tent at the southeast corner of State Road 70 and Lockwood Ridge earlier this month, when he and the rest of an eight-member team with Whatisthe99? brought their traveling reality theater to Bradenton.
More than 240 local volunteers, including 80 local actors, help with the show each night. Performances started Feb. 15 and run from 7 to 11 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through March 10. Guests must be at least 11 years old to participate. Cost to watch the show is $3.
"Ninety-nine kids (ages 12 to 24) die in America every day by (making poor) avoidable choices," King said, as he readied the tent on opening day. "Thirty-one will die in a car crash today; 16 in an overdose or drug-related incident; 40 in a homicide or gang (incident); and 12 from suicide. That's why it gets the 99. We believe we can change those numbers by doing this production."
Whatisthe99? organizers partner with local civic and other groups to put on the production, which features 13 rooms, each depicting the consequences of making poor decisions, such as sending text messages while driving, abusing prescription and other drugs and suicide, among others.
Guests walk from room to room to see each drama unfold. The walking tour takes about 45 minutes in total, and guests can ask to leave the room at any time if they become uncomfortable.
"Reality can be scary, but it's not designed to be scary," King said. "Everything you see is depicted as real."
Organization founder and director Terry Henshaw agreed the show is meant to impact youth and help them become more aware of each choice they make.
The venue also gives them an outlet to speak about any trials with which they are dealing. Adult volunteers will be available at the end of the performance to speak with youth about what is going on in their lives, if they so desire.
"Most teenagers have no one they can talk with," Henshaw said. "They don't feel like they can talk with anyone without it being posted on Facebook. Some have parents on drugs or don't have food to eat. Kids are going to school with these burdens. They aren't able to be kids."
Henshaw said the Whatsthe99? is a faith-based initiative, with a short presentation at the end of the show.
For more information, visit whatisthe99.com/page3/index.php.
Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].
When: 7 to 11 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through March 10
Where: 4536 53rd Ave. E., Bradenton
What: A walk-through reality theater depicts a scene of an accident and other potentiall graphic incidents. Participants must be at least 11 years old to enter.
Cost: $3
Info: whatisthe99.com/page3/index.php
What is the 99?
31 — Youths die in car crashes daily
16 — Youths die in an overdose or drug-related incident daily
40 — Youths die in a homicide or gang-related incident daily
12 — Youths commit suicide daily
99 — Total number of daily preventable teenage deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention