The Source Magazine joins forces with Lerer Media and MWR for
Independence Day Weekend celebration.
Performances by: Plain White T's, Chrisette Michele, Musiq Soulchild, Trey Songz and more.

Lerer Media thanks MWR, The Source Magazine, and Live n Direct for the hard work and dedication for a successful Independence Day Weekend Celebration. 

Over 50,000 people came out over two days for this mega event to celebrate the weekend and our troops making this one of Fort Dix's biggest events.  Check back soon to see highlights of this spectacular event.






Special thanks to all of the artists that performed.

   July 3



USA Express

      
            
Dephonic                                                                    DiVerse    

  
July 4



                   
 
Bruckup
       

Jive Records Artist
 





Jaii Stylez

Christina Sajous, Jenae Michele, Stephanie Petronelli and the winners of
The Source Unsigned Hype contest.

Special thank you to Sgt. Jason Knight and Sgt. Major Rodney Little for going the extra mile and everyone that helped to make this a special weekend for all.

 

Raul Acosta Y Oro Solido 
Nominated for Premio Lo Nuestro 2009

El Oro Sólido
del merengue actual

         

Exportado de República Dominicana, Raúl Acosta y Oro Sólido son la orquesta más escuchado en los últimos años dentro del género del merengue, buscan traspasar fronteras con sus ritmos contagiosos. 

La Orquesta Oro Sólido es una agrupación musical que ha logrado destacarse como una de las de mayor impacto y transcendencia en los últimos tiempos. Su estilo de hacer merengue, la cadencia de sus temas, el sabor popular de sus interpretaciones y la temática netamente popular de los mismos han convertido a Oro Sólido en el grupo de merengue de mayor repercusión y de mayor arrastre en los actuales momentos. 

Shining like gold “hasta las quince” for over a decade, Raul Acosta, better known in the music industry as "El Presidente del  Merengue," was  born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic on September 8, 1971. Born     into a musical family, at the age of seven, he and his older brothers Iván and Rafael, in addition to local neighborhood kids, started a pre-adolescent music group called "Los Sobrinos Del Rey". This was the Dominican version of the Jackson 5. With this early experience, Raul was able to develop his musical talent as well as his stage presence. The group went on to perform in two nationally televised shows on the government TV station, channel four, for a show called "Amarillis con los Niños.” At 9 years old, the family relocated to the United States like every other immigrant family, to work hard and prosper. With no English skills, Raul moved to Jersey City, New Jersey to start his new life. Years later, he moved to Union City where the Hispanic culture was growing stronger.

Upon graduating from high school, Raúl began his studies in music and sound engineering by joining Kennedy's Music World, a local music school. There he worked retail and operated the music studio as well as helped students in their classes. In 1990, after graduating high school, he held different positions within the Hudson County government. Finally, in 1994, he formed New York's hottest and most established merengue band, Oro Sólido. That same year, he released his self-titled debut album, Oro Sólido. To his amazement, it was the beginning of a long and exciting career that has spanned over 12 years and worldwide recognition.

The albums came almost every year after that. With hits like "Ta Cache," "La Tanguita Roja," "Maria se Fue," "El Baile del Beeper," "Una Nalgadita," "La Morena," and many more, Oro Sólido, positioned itself as one of the biggest Latin music groups in the world. They have surpassed various barriers when it comes to performing in the Anglo media and having their music played on English-speaking radio stations. Raul Acosta has been nominated for and won numerous awards throughout the years, including Premios Estrella, Premios ACE y Premio Lo Nuestro, just to name a few.

The group has performed regularly on some of Hispanic TV’s most distinguished and popular TV shows. Oro Sólido was also the first merengue band to perform on Fox 5 News New York and The Jerry Lewis Telethon. The group has also performed over 5 times in the renowned Madison Square Garden as well as other famous arenas like the Universal City Amphitheater in Los Angeles, El Zócalo de Mexico, Estadio Modelo de Ecuador, El Monumento in Dominican Republic and the Meadowlands in New Jersey. The group has shared the stage with artists such as 50 cent, Leann Rhymes, Celia Cruz, Marc Anthony, Fat Joe, Johnny Ventura, Wilfrido Vargas, Tito Puente, El Gran Combo and The Temptations, just to name a few.

Keeping in mind their humanitarian spirit, Oro Sólido also does benefit work with different organizations like World Vision, March of Dimes, The Wheelchair Foundation, Health Plus, Verizon and the City of New York's Commission of Domestic Violence.  Oro Sólido is also affiliated to companies such as Supercanal Caribe, a growing Latin cable station in the U.S. and Dominican Republic. Recently, the group launched their own Oro Sólido Phone Card, which proves that they are one of the biggest market shares in Latin music presentations worldwide, and one of the most promising acts to be able to knock on the door of U.S. mainstream markets. 

  
Latin Briefs: "Batalla de las Americas," Raul Acosta
January 27, 2009 - Latin
By Ayala Ben-Yehuda, L.A.


-Merengue veterans Raul Acosta y Oro Solido have signed a worldwide publishing deal with New York company Sunflower Entertainment. Sunflower, whose catalog also includes Dominican rapper Vakero, bachata star Kiko Rodriguez and La Sonora Dinamita, will handle Raul Acosta y Oro Solido’s publishing and master administration, synch licensing and digital exploitation. Raul Acosta y Oro Solido’s next album, “Fantasia Urbana,” features Fat Joe and comes out Feb. 17 on 24K Records.

 

 

 LONESTAR to Perform in Remembrance & Salute to Our Troops on 9/11
 
September 2, 2008 (Fort Dix, NJ) Multi-platinum country recording artist LONESTAR is scheduled to perform at Fort Dix on September 11, 2008 on Doughboy Field. Fort Dix Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, is proud to present a 9/11, Remembrance and Celebration of Life concert.  This event is a free outdoor concert open to the public at Doughboy Field gates open at 5pm and show starts at 7pm; those wishing to attend must have valid issued photo identification such as a driver’s license or passport.

“September 11, 2008 is a show we greatly look forward to,” said band member Dean Sams. “Playing the Army Base in Fort Dix, NJ for so many men and women that continue to serve our country is going to be an honor.  On a day that marks tragedy in our country, we hope to celebrate life through our music, and remember those lost during the attacks on 9/11 and those who have been on the front lines ever since to ensure this doesn't happen again.”
 
With over 10 million albums sold, LONESTAR is getting ready to release their 11th album this Fall. Now, on their own record label Lonestar Records, the band is excited to be in charge and back in the studio putting the final touches on a new record they are very proud of. Their current single “Let Me Love You” is available on iTunes and the band is taking full advantage of the internet, mobile technology, social networking sites and participating in direct feedback with fans.

With world-wide acclaimed hits like “Amazed”, “I’m Already There” and “Front Porch Looking In”, the band is looking forward to making the show on September 11 one to remember for years to come. The band’s high-powered, crowd-involving performances are sure to bring smiles and tears as the day of the WTC attacks in 2001 is remembered.

“Fort Dix would like to thank LONESTAR for their support of the Soldiers and Family members at Fort Dix and the surrounding Military installations.  This is a chance to allow our neighbors to interact with our Military community and show their support, as we share this special event with the general public.” Bob Vogt, Community Recreation Director – Fort Dix FMWR

Fort Dix services approximately 8000 Soldiers Families and employees, MacGuire Air Force base, Lakehurst Naval Air Station and the all National Guard and Reserves units in the area. At any given time Fort Dix has between 500 to 1000 Soldiers deploying or returning from the global war on terror and  Fort Dix also hosts a Warrior transition unit with 300 +  Wounded Soldiers. 

It is our pleasure to collaborate with FMWR of Fort Dix and LONESTAR to remember and pay tribute to those who perished on 9/11, and to salute those that continue to serve and protect our country.  Our troops are a source of pride and admiration so it is an honor and a pleasure to know that we provide a welcomed respite to our soldiers and their families.” Mikhael and Alycia Lerer – TMEG

TMEG’s Funny Biz/Spread the Laughter Tour

In 2007 TMEG kicked off a National Campaign with FMWR at Fort Dix, NJ to “Spread the Laughter.”  The purpose of this tour is to “Spread the Laughter” and help boost moral among the troops.  The tour provides comedy and some of the most exciting music acts ranging from R&B, country, and rock to Latin beats. Jamie Kennedy, Gerald Albright, Will Downing, Chrisette Michele, Raul Acosta and Oro Solido, are just to name a few artists who give their time and talent for entertainment of servicemen and women.
For more about LONESTAR, please visit their website www.lonestarnow.com.
For further information on Fort Dix FMWR visit their website www.DixMWR.com
For more about TMEG, please visit their website www.TMEGus.com.

###
For interviews or further LONESTAR inquiries, please contact:
Webster & Associates Public Relations
Shaun Bertrand / shaun@websterpr.com
615-777-6995

For further information on TMEG Funny Biz Spread the Laughter, please contact:

TMEG Canada, LLC
Alycia Lerer / alerer@tmegcanada.com
Mikhael Lerer/ mlerer@tmegcanada.com
646-688-4914

 
For further information on Fort Dix FMWR, please contact:
Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation @ 609-562-5881

August 23, 2008

(Fort Dix, NJ) FunnyBiz Spread the Laughter presents comedian Bill Dawes to kick off the after party as he performs for the troops at the National Rugby League Championship Game.  In appreciation of his contirbution he receives the Ultimate Weapon Award from the Post Commander Ronald Taxton.

August 21, 2008

 

Chrisette Michele Live @ Fort Dix July 23, 2008

Chrisette Michele set to Entertain Troops at Fort Dix
Gold Record Singer Supports Troops & Families here and abroad

(Fort Dix - NJ, USA )
 July 16, 2008 Gold record Grammy Nominee Chrisette Michele has volunteered to perform for troops and their families at Fort Dix, New Jersey on July 23rd.

Chrisette Michele will include her hit song "If I have my way" in her vocal performance.  In a statement, Chrisette said she was doing the show because, "Performing for the troops is an honor for me. These are the people that protect the country I work and hope to be successful in. I want to thank the US government for this great opportunity."

The show will include musical performances by up and coming artists Jaii Stylez, P Jay Johnson and comedian Kyle Fincham.  The show will be hosted by Comedienne Gina Brillón, known for her work at Comedy Central, Laugh Factory and much more. Brillón told interviewers that she was rehearsing some special material to use in hosting the event.

This special appearance was arranged by Fort Dix Directorate of Family & Morale, Welfare & Recreation (DFMWR) and the U.S. Army in association with TMEG. Additional sponsors include, Live N Direct, Funny Biz and Ciccone Entertainment.  More events are expected over the next few months.

In this collaborative effort the artists and production companies have volunteered their time and expertise to give back to the men and women who protect our country.

"Almost every American home has a connection with the armed forces through a family member or someone they know.  Our troops are a source of pride and admiration so it is an honor and a pleasure to entertain our armed forces, knowing that we bring laughter and a welcomed respite to our soldiers and their families which makes it all worth while". Mikhael and Alycia Lerer - TMEG

"To have a mainstream entertainers like Chrisette Michele perform provides an escape from the pressures of being a Soldier.  Bob Vogt, Community Recreation Director, Fort Dix.

05/11/2008

Mother's Day Charity Event at Times Square 
Grammy Award Winner





Mother's Day charity event to benefit victims of Kidney Disease to be held at the Times Square Arts Center, featuring Chrisette Michele and hosted by Radio personality Kim Kane. The charity, “Hope Brings Peace,” is a nonprofit founded by Lady Tania Michael
 
For_Immediate_Release:
United States of America (Press Release) April 21, 2008 -- (Times Square - New York, NY, USA) April 21, 2008 Grammy nominee Chrisette Michele will hold a special performance on Sunday, May 11th for Mother's Day to benefit victims of Kidney Disease which is rising among women and afflicts over 13% of Americans Nationwide.

The charity benefit event at Times Square Arts Center, hosted by Radio personality Kim Kane will feature Chrisette and several surprise musical guests. Over 1000 people are expected to attend, including a number of A-list celebrities who plan on attending with their Moms and will be available for autographs.

The charity, “Hope Brings Peace,” is a nonprofit founded by Lady Tania Michael whose own experience prompted her to create an organization for education and support services for the victims of kidney disease and their families.

Chrisette, a 25 year old Long Island native and Deacon's daughter earned her first Grammy nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for her song 'If I Have My Way,' from her debut album. That album, 'I Am' was released by Def Jam Records last year. Chrisette has toured with artists like KEM and India Arie and in January she was a VH1 "You Oughta Know: Artist on the Rise." Her Mom, Lynette Payne, is also planning on attending the event.

The event starts at noon with Mothers' Day brunch, followed by a reception to meet the artist at 4 pm. The show starts at 6 pm. An after-party will be at 8 pm sponsored by The Source and will include comedians Gina Brillon and George Diaz along with other musical artists.

The event is sponsored by Live-n-Direct, Funny Biz, The Source, PINK and Comics Care.

05/07/98

Jamie Kennedy brings Laughs to Fort Dix Comic Supports Troops & Families here and abroad

(Times Square - NY, & Fort Dix - NJ, USA ) April 25, 2008 - Actor, Comic, Author and Entertainer Jamie Kennedy will appear with writer/comic Bill Dawes at Fort Dix, New Jersey on May 7th to entertain the service troops and their families stationed there. Encore performances for the general public will be at Times Square Comedy Club that weekend.

Kennedy, a long time supporter of US troops and their families both here and overseas traveled to Kuwait and Baghdad with his writer and opening act Bill Dawes in June 2007 to perform for troops there.

This special appearance for troops and their families here at home, billed as, Funny Biz “Spread the Laughter” was arranged by Kennedy and TMEG's Alycia Lerer with the help and support of the Fort Dix Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (DFMWR) and Times Square Arts Center. This event is sponsored in part by Funny Biz, P.I.N.K., and Comics Care.
 
"Entertainment of any kind is a huge morale boost for our Soldiers and Families. The requirements to support our Soldiers and Families as they deploy and return from war is a very stress filled job."
- Bob Vogt, Community Recreation Director, Fort Dix

 
"Jamie Kennedy's increasing fame for his innovative, brilliant comedic creativity has only increased his desire to support our troops here and abroad. For him these shows are a labor of love."
- Pam Kohl, Kennedy Mgr. & Exec. Producer

02/04/2008
 
Times Square Arts Center Signs Deal with Global Vision Entertainment
 
NewswireToday - Times Square Arts Center owner, Richard Basciano, announces agreement with Global Vision Entertainment to assist in redevelopment into an upscale destination point and add to the current renaissance.

Richard Basciano, an Icon of Times Square and owner of the Times Square Arts Center, home of the world famous “Laugh Factory NY” has announced an exclusive agreement with Global Vision Entertainment to develop more opportunities for mainstream entertainers and artists with wholesome, quality shows that will contribute further towards making Times Square one of the city's upscale destination points and add to the current renaissance in that neighborhood.

Global Vision Entertainment, Inc., a leading developer of quality entertainment programming and a licensed distributor of American Idol DVD's will be developing a series of new shows and products including musical and theatrical presentations to coincide with their “All Star” comedy shows.

”New York Times Square Arts Center boasts five state-of-the-art theaters,” said John Velasco, President of Global Vision Entertainment. “Our intent is not only to develop shows to fill those theaters, but to reach out with television and Internet as well as traditional retail to create a positive impact on both the local economy and global marketplace.”

Alycia Lerer of TMEG who brokered the deal added that, “We are delighted with this arrangement which will allow us to build on the reputation of Times Square Arts Center and begin a new chapter in the use of the theaters while creating a new & exciting destination in New York's Times Square.”

Basciano said in a statement that he was “very excited about this new alliance and the coming of a new age for Times Square Arts Center” and was making key management changes to ensure bigger and better things for the Times Square neighborhood.

The Times Square Arts Center is located in the heart of NYC's Times Square and houses five state of the art theaters that can accommodate up to 1,500 people. It will also be available for corporate events, private parties, presentations, or seminars and also boasts a state of the art 100 seat screening room that is ideal for web presentations, workshops, seminars, training, marketing, advertising and film screenings.

January 12, 2008

It's a show of professional comedians and so much more - a show at the Times Square Arts Center tonight -- home of the Laugh Factory New York -- presents "Funny Biz" an opportunity for military men and women to step out of their comfort zone and perform on stage.

We're joined this morning by the Funny Biz creator and producer, Alycia Lerer, the host of the show, Ryan Reiss and the event coordinator for the reserves, Amee Hernandez. Times Square Arts Center located in the heart of Times Square at 42nd and 8th Avenue and Funny Biz Spread the Laughter Comedy Tour is working with MWR (Morale, Welfare and Recreation) of Fort Dix will kick off a National Campaign intended for troops across America & abroad. The purpose of this tour is to "Spread the Laughter" and to raise moral among the troops.

Times Square Arts Center will be providing comedians to entertain the troops and an opportunity to participate in the upcoming web cast and television show Funny Biz.

Times Square Arts Center to fuel further City Renaissance
Owner Richard Basciano names key Management

January 30, 2008

(New York, NY, USA) Richard Basciano, an Icon of Times Square and owner of the Times Square Arts Center, home of the world famous “Laugh Factory NY” has announced key management positions he says will further the neighborhood renaissance and local economy, develop more opportunities for mainstream entertainers and artists to showcase their talent, and help make Times Square the place to be for visitors of New York City.

Basciano’s hand picked team of management experts have a combined experience of over 100 years in executive management and the entertainment industry. They include Alycia Lerer of TMEG Canada, Billy Raum of Royal Production Management and John Velasco, president of Global Vision Entertainment, Inc., whose company is developing a number of shows and products to showcase at the Arts Center’s five state-of-the-art theaters.

Stevan Nikolic has been selected as the new Executive Chef and the food and beverage director. Stevan is a restaurant industry expert and published author who expects to use his talent to bring the operation to a new level of excellence.

The team expects to reach out with television and Internet as well as traditional retail to create a positive impact on both the local economy and global marketplace and continue Basciano’s vision of Times Square as THE destination place for visitors and residents of New York City.

The Times Square Arts Center is located in the heart of NYC’s Times Square. This 20,000 square foot facility houses five state of the art theaters that can accommodate up to 1,500 people and is available for corporate events, private parties, presentations or seminars. It also boasts a state of the art 100 seat screening room that is ideal for web presentations, workshops, seminars, training, marketing, advertising and film screenings.
 
January 12, 2008

It's a show of professional comedians and so much more - a show at the Times Square Arts Center tonight -- home of the Laugh Factory New York -- presents "Funny Biz" an opportunity for military men and women to step out of their comfort zone and perform on stage.

We're joined this morning by the Funny Biz creator and producer, Alycia Lerer, the host of the show, Ryan Reiss and the event coordinator for the reserves, Amee Hernandez. Times Square Arts Center located in the heart of Times Square at 42nd and 8th Avenue and Funny Biz Spread the Laughter Comedy Tour is working with MWR (Morale, Welfare and Recreation) of Fort Dix will kick off a National Campaign intended for troops across America & abroad. The purpose of this tour is to "Spread the Laughter" and to raise moral among the troops.

Times Square Arts Center will be providing comedians to entertain the troops and an opportunity to participate in the upcoming web cast and television show Funny Biz.

The on going tour represents the energy of Bob Hope's famous USO tour to entertain the troops wherever they are stationed. The shows will include stand up comedy, improvisational skits and an opportunity for service members to compete for the Funny Biz best military comedian award.

Times Square Arts Center and Funny Biz is providing a welcome for our service members far from home. Funny Biz will show the world that even though they are far from home laughter transcends the miles that, separates them from home and family.

August 2007

TMEG signs business development, marketing and distribution agreement to launch the Times Square Arts Center the home of the World Famous Laugh Factory Times Square NY. Times Square Arts Center, New York's newest premiere boutique event facility located at 42nd and 8th. This is an ideal location for any business or personal affair. For corporate events, private parties, presentations, or seminars this venue can accommodate parties from 5 to 1500 people. In addition, the facility offers offices, rehearsal type space of 2,500 square feet, and meeting space. The facility also houses a state of the art 100 seat screening room. This is ideal for Power Point Presentations, workshops, seminars, training, marketing, advertising and film screenings. Depending on the size and theme of your event this versatile facility can be customized to suit your needs.

Located in the heart of NYC’s Times Square this is one of the most prestigious locations on the east coast. Nearly 4 million people cross this intersection on any given weekend therefore this location can give your business maximum exposure.

June 2007

TMEG signs world renowned professional speaker, author and television personality, Les Brown to retail distribution deal throughout North America.  Les Brown has risen to national prominence by delivering a high energy message which tells people how to shake off mediocrity and live up to their greatness
 
February 2006

TMEG is retained for marketing services for NBA All Star Week Explosion 2006 in Houston, Texas