Lauren Lindberg is a busy woman. She’s in college, she’s making movies and she’s making history. As a teen finalist in the Seventeen Magazine “Pretty Amazing” contest, Lindberg, a Danville resident, was featured in the magazine last year. Now she is coming to speak at the Soroptimist International of the San Ramon Valley’s  8th annual She’s All That conference for middle school girls on Feb. 11.We checked in with Lindberg and found out a little more about her pretty amazing life.

 
ANNB: At 18, you already have a page on the Internet Movie Data Base (IMDb) listing, a spot in Seventeen Magazine, and screenings of your films at 24 national and international film festivals. What is the key to your success?

LL: The key to success is finding something you are passionate about.  For me, I have found my passion in documentary filmmaking, and in highlighting important social issues. The page on IMDb, spot in Seventeen and screenings at 24 film festivals are results of the many hours and hard work that I have put into my filmmaking.  The happiness I feel when making movies is my biggest reward. I think all these factors have helped me make films that have resulted in all the recognition.
 

ANNB: Tell us about where you were and what you were doing when you learned you were selected as a finalist in Seventeen Magazine’s “Pretty Amazing” real girl cover contest. What did it mean to you?

LL: I applied for the contest on a whim.  I was up late one night and saw an advertisement in Seventeen, and thought “why not? I could use a scholarship!” Several months later, in April, I received an email saying I was moving to the next round. I was shocked!  But I still didn’t think I would be selected--- Seventeen had all the potential girls make numerous videos and answer interview after interview.  I didn’t think I had a chance! Then, while on a bus during a class field trip, I got a call from Anne Shoket, the editor of Seventeen, who told me I was selected as one of the five finalists and I would be flown to New York. I was extremely excited, but even then, I did not realize the immense impact the trip would ultimately have on me. 

ANNB: Tell us about the cover photo shoot, makeover and meeting the judges (I think it was the judges?) in New York. What was that like?

LL: From the beginning of the trip to the end, they treated all five of us like celebrities.  We were met at the airport by limos, we got our hair done at an incredibly fancy salon, and our makeup was done everyday by professional makeup artists, who were used to doing makeup on the biggest stars. We also got to actually meet some celebrities: Anne Shoket, Jared Eng (of Just Jared)  and Miranda Cosgrove, of iCarly.  Because I had grown up reading Seventeen and Anne’s Editors letter in every issue, I had watched “iCarly” and “Drake and Josh”.  Even so, meeting them actually surprised me.  Anne Shoket was so poised and elegant, Miranda was just the sweetest girl. Jared was very relatable to me, because of the way that he started small and built his celebrity blog by doing what he loves, just like I’ve done.

ANNB: What do you hope to share at the “She’s All That” event to inspire young girls?

LL: Because I’m a part of Reach Out’s National Youth Council, my eyes have been opened to how many teens actually struggle with issues similar to what I went through a few years ago.  I went through a difficult time when I suffered from depression. However, when I started making movies, I discovered that I could use filmmaking as a microphone to bring awareness to different issues, and help other people find their voices.  I feel like I have a purpose. There are so many girls today that go through depression and think there is no hope. I want to let them know that there is always a way out, and that there is so much to live for. Because I was able to overcome my struggle with depression, I have realized how important it is to get my message out and so I stress the importance of finding and exploring your passion. 

ANNB:  Tell us about how you got started making films.

LL: I started making movies when I was around 9 years old. I would invite my friends over and we would make scripts, dress up, and act out silly stories.  In 8th grade,  I joined a video production class at my school and learned how to edit.  I used this newfound knowledge to create a remake of Avril Lavigne’s music video ‘Girlfriend,’ which since then has hundreds of comments and has been viewed more than 55,000 times.  

ANNB: You have so much going on right now, how do you juggle it all? What advice will you give on this topic at the She’s All That conference?

LL: I am still learning a lot about time management, and have pulled a few all-nighters since I’ve started college, however, what I’ve found is that staying ahead is key. At SAT, I will stress the importance of staying on top of things, and my advice for keeping a low stress level, and getting stuff done well and on time! The other thing that I have found is that whenever I do my absolute best at something, it turns out well. It’s when I rush through something, or don’t give something my best shot that things turn out just o.k. LL: You have shared your struggles with attention deficit disorder as well as depression.

ANNB: How did you break through that and what advice do you have for other teens/young women dealing with that?
 

LL: During sophomore year, I went through some drastic emotional changes.  I withdrew from everyone and everything. Although I was miserable, I figured that it was just the way I was.  My teachers began to notice this change and urged me to see a doctor.  Once I discovered that I had ADD and depression, I no longer felt like I was trapped in that state, but that I could do something about it.  I began working with my teachers, and they helped me think of ways that I could work around my ADD and be successful in their class.  As I began to do better in school, my mood began to lift. I learned that I could take something I am passionate about, filmmaking, and use it to empower myself and others.  I have learned about the importance of not giving up.  I want to stress that if you ever feel hopeless, know that it is not permanent.  There are people who understand and so many resources that can help you.
 

ANNB: You are studying filmmaking at Chapman University and hope to be a filmmaker. How is that going and what are you working on now?

LL: I have completed my first semester at Chapman and I love it.  Because of the huge adjustment from high school, I used my first semester to get adapted to all of the changes and focus on my schoolwork, but next semester I will have the opportunity to really expand in the filmmaking area.  I am taking my first hands-on filmmaking class and I am excited to figure out what I will do next!

ANNB: We understand that the The Factory, a youth program sponsored by the Bay Area Video Coalition in Oakland, was very helpful to you. Tell us about that?
 

LL: Because filmmaking is what ultimately pulled me out of my slump, I did not want to stop making films when the video production class at my school was canceled after my junior year.  As soon as I joined The Factory, I became aware that it was a place where I could truly grow as a filmmaker.  The Factory not only supplied me with equipment I needed, and insight from fellow filmmakers and instructors, but it also provided me with the opportunities that inspired me to focus on making films that empower change.  The Factory helped me distribute my films to different film festivals, and even funded trips so that I could go see my films screen.

ANNB:  What other message do you have for teens these days?

LL: Everyone has so much potential. Don’t be scared to reach for your goals, and pursue your dreams.
Also, we are very lucky that we live in today’s time period. So much of what we do is based upon using technology, and there probably has never been a better time to be a girl---any girl of any age can make a blog, publish a book, make a music video, put something on youtube, or start a charity. Every girl can pursue her dreams! Whatever it is that inspires you, go for it!  --JYP

The She's All That conference is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat. Feb. 11 at San Ramon Valley High School, 510 Danville Blvd. in Danville. For more information, call 925-519-0754 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Pre-registration is required and classes will be filled on a first-registered basis. After Lindberg's talk, girls will attend three workshops from a list that includes sessions on talking to boys, self defense, relating to parents, hip hop, cyber safety and personal style. Workshops for parents are also available. For more information, visit: http://www.soroptimist-sr.org/

Julie Youngblood Perales, a Soroptimist, has been recruiting top talent nationally for Fortune 500 companies for the last 10 years. She has been a senior recruiter for Toll Brothers Home Builders in San Ramon for the last 6 years and also enjoys individually coaching and advising people who are in a career transition and job search mode. Contact her through at tellusyournews@gmail.com.

The Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre will present "Annie" starting Jan. 21 and running through Feb. 5.

Based on the book by Thomas Meehan, music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Martin Charnin, the local show is produced by Kathleen Breedveld, directed by John Maio,  with choreography by Christina Lazo, vocal direction by Min Kahng and musical direction by Jo Anne Fosselman.

Performances are at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sundays at the Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St. in Livermore.

The cast includes: Jordyn Foley, Julia Etzel, Jess Martinez, Sarah Schori, Erik Scanlon, Pamela Ballin, Kendall Tieck, Emily Johnson, Rachel Probst, Emma Thvedt, Emily Joy Kessel, Isabella Palmer-Ahrens and Grace Mesenbring.

Supporting roles are played by: Tim Ackerman, Tom Farris, John Rinaldi, Scott Stewart, Jeffrey Sanchez, Dylan Spooner, Noelle Boero, Elizabeth Dimits, Sultana Gardizi, Britt Jensky, Emily Jones, Martha McDowell, Martie Muldoon, Hanna Pryfogle, Brianna Reynolds, Judy Sanders, Zoe Larkin, Christine Curulla, Alexandra Baldacci and Sophia Delucchi.

For tickets, go to www.livermoreperformingarts.org or call 925-373-6800 or go to the ticket window at 2400 First St. in Livermore. --KB

In 2012, we will be featuring more stories of Inspirational people doing what they love to do. We're wrapping up 2011 with a chat with Tasha Bartholomew, a Hayward woman who first began walking the runways and posing for the camera this summer after going to an open casting call for the 8 Plus Divas "Diary of a Curvy Diva" Fashion Show in Oakland. Here is a little more about what she is doing and where she hopes to go with her new plus-size modeling passion.

ANNB: How and when did you first become interested in plus-size modeling?
TB: I’ve been interested in plus-size modeling for at least five years now, but I’ve always loved fashion. I only decided to pursue modeling last summer when I saw an ad for a fashion show called “Diary of a Curvy Diva” that was presented by the ladies of 8 Plus Divas in August. I was excited to see a plus-size fashion show come to Oakland and wondered whether they were going to need models. So I checked their website and saw that they were going to hold an open casting call for the show and that’s when I decided to give it shot.

ANNB: Tell us a little about your experiences so far, such as what shows and shoots you have done?
TB: I’ve been fortunate to have done the 8 Plus Divas “Diary of a Curvy Diva” Plus Fashion Show, as well as the fashionART Santa Cruz Runway Show in September where I walked for plus designer Jill Alexander Designs. I have done several photo shoots, including an outdoors shoot at Lake Merritt in Oakland and a Pin-Up Girl photo shoot that took place on the beach in Alameda.
 

ANNB: Is walking the runway scary or do you feel you are a natural?
TB: Honestly, I feel very comfortable when I’m on the runway. Maybe it’s because I have a natural strut when I walk around every day. I do get little butterflies in my stomach before each show, but they tend to disappear the second I hit the runway.
 

ANNB: What types of clothes/accessories do you most like to model?
TB: I like to model everything, but I do tend to favor dresses. I especially like to rock cool accessories like belts, big earrings and bangles. Accessories can really make an outfit come alive. One item I haven’t really modeled yet is hats. I adore hats and would love to model them in a show someday soon.

ANNB: Tell us why the company you are working with 8Plus Divas is a good "fit" for you and others interested in plus-size modeling?
TB: 8 Plus Divas is a wonderful company because they really celebrate the curvy woman’s body, regardless of size or height. Many people may not know this, but even in mainstream plus-size modeling there are still certain standards models have to abide by. For example, they still prefer models to be at least 5’7 or 5’8 in height and they prefer models not to be over a size 18. Most models used in major ad campaigns tend to be on the smaller side of plus-size, such as a size 10, 12 or 14. 8 Plus Divas gives models such as me, who may not be the right height or size for the mainstream plus modeling world, an opportunity to show that we are just as fashionable, beautiful and sexy as our counterparts.  
 
ANNB: Are you modeling with a message? How do you hope your modeling is working to encourage other plus-size, beautiful women to embrace their bodies?
TB: Yes, I’m modeling with a message for plus-size women and also for women in general and that is to love your body and curves no matter what size you are. I have many female friends and family members, of all sizes, who still struggle with body issues. So I just think it’s important that whether you’re a size 6 or 16, that you love yourself unconditionally and unapologetically.

ANNB:  Where do you hope to go with plus-size modeling?
TB: Honestly, I’m not really sure where I want to go with plus-size modeling. I have a successful career in public affairs, and I see modeling as something fun that I’m doing on the side right now. Although I’m pretty new to the industry, I’ve been fortunate to also do some fashion blogging for the 8 Plus Divas website, in addition to starting my own fashion blog.

ANNB: What is your background outside of modeling?

TB: I have a journalism degree from San Francisco State University and worked as a professional journalist in the Bay Area for seven years before I decided to change careers five years ago. Since then, I’ve been working in the public affairs department for a public transit agency in the Peninsula. 

ANNB: What have you learned about body image, nutrition and healthy lifestyles since starting this career?
TB: I’ve learned that even as a plus-size model, it is still important to eat properly and exercise to stay healthy and toned.

ANNB: Where can we see you next? 

TB:  I am a brand ambassador for 8 Plus Divas, so I can be seen at many of their upcoming events. I also have more fashion blogs coming for 8 Plus Divas at www.8plusdivas.com, as well as my own blog page http://misstashabplusmodel.blogspot.com/. Lastly, I have a few fashion shows coming up in 2012, so please read my blog to find out more details. --KB

Close up photo (left) courtesy of Tony Sparks, photo in hat (middle right) courtesy of  La'Keela Smith Photography and  picnic scene (top left) courtesy of YellowBubbles Photography.

It's time for the third annual Designers Log Favorites of the Year and what's going to be hot in interior design for 2012.

Favorite individual piece - Kolkka Furniture, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, designs and custom constructs unique metal and glass tables, consoles and other pieces.. Recently they introduced tops of fabric, recyled leather, rubber and spandex that are hip, sophisticated and maintenance free. My personal favorite is the Paris Cocktail Table, a round, clean, uncluttered classic design. Usually shown in clear glass, a client has recently suggested an antique mirrored top, which will be a real show stopper when matched with a champagne colored, hand applied finish. With its timeless style, this piece works in any interior. Kolkka's drinks tables are a must for any decor.  Just the right size for a book, cup or martini.

Favorite color - White is this years black. From traditional ivory to stark "art gallery," you can't get more out of any color than white.  It can hold its own as the only color in the room or be the background for bright primary prints and patterns. I love the way white morphs as the light in a room changes. It's always moving, never a static color. White can be as soft as milk or as intense as the sun on snow. It can evoke a period like Art Deco, and be used anywhere from a bathroom to the exterior of a Moroccan palace. There is something about the way white speaks to us, as a beginning or just harkening back to a time when life was simpler.  It's clean, fresh and inviting. For the new year, mix white with organic neutrals like khaki, caramel or sand.

Favorite fabric - For 2012 my favorite fabric is actually wallpaper, or in this case, wall coverings. The popularity of wall coverings dwindled for a few years, but it's back bigger and more diverse than ever. Think grasscloth on steroids. Your walls can look like stone, wood or even an Italian fresco. Mica gives the appearance of sparklling diamonds. Bamboo and hemp look so organic you won't be able to resist touching. The new textures are tactile and low maintenance. Need bling in the room? No problem. Want a scene of the Tuscan countryside? Done. Paint and faux finishes are great, but nothing matches the sophistication and drama of the right wall covering. This is one trend that is back and long missed.

Favorite style - Summer may be over, but not forgotten. Beach chic is the design style that transcends season and location and is timelss and comfortable year around. Think Hamptons, St. Tropez or Laguna Beach. The look is easy to achieve, just be careful, this is a real less is more situation. Pared down works best. Start with clean, basic, off white or neutral walls. Throw in colorful pillows, pictures, lamps. Orange is the perfect compliment, it's modern and bright. Sky blue, sea greens and ochre completes that indoor/outdoor feeling. Woven furniture and minimal window treatments are needed; it's all about letting the natural light in. I like to add family pictures, sea glass and shells scattered around a table top and a throw for the cool beach evenings. The best thing about beach chic is that you can do it on a minimal budget. The best pieces will be the ones you find in consignment stores or second hand shops. Some great ideas can be found in my favorite publication, Coastal Living.

Favorite comeback look - The reemergence of Swedish design.  Another great look that is classic and clean is Scandinavian. This is where white really does its thing. The look goes back to the 18th Century Gustavian Period in Sweden. It hasn't changed much over the years, but is rapidly gaining popularity again. I love the painted, slightly distressed wood pieces, the neutral pale upholstery and the woven or rag rugs. For the more traditional look, throw in botanical and animal prints. For something more modern and slick, use minimal and clean lined furniture, black framed pictures. Swedish Design is ultra stylish and practical whether you like it old or new. The uncluttered, almost spartan feel works perfectly for those of us looking for a simpler lifestyle.

Favorite retro look - 1980's. Before you cringe at the thought, just consider it's been 30 years since the 80s began.  Still thought of by many as a time of ugly design, over the top trends and bad taste, its cheeky approach and use of color really works in todays design. Combine pastels with the splash of neon colors. Re-imagine the practicality of black and white patterns or the classic combination of preppie pink and green. These were staples of the interior design of that decade and are familiar to us still. The 80s were themselves a re-imagining of the 1950's. Mixing the metallics of the earlier time with graffiti graphics gave birth to a candy colored retro/modern era. Colors like lemon yellow and Cadillac pink can add that punch you need to update your rooms with a bit of 80s whimsy. Add in a mirrored wall, a ficus  tree, put on the Go-Go's and you will be on the cutting edge.  Maybe stay away from that one color combination that doesn't need to be resurrected: mauve and teal.

Favorite place for inspiration - California. I've traveled all over and there are many places that are inspiring, but there is no place like home. California has always danced to its own drum and you don't have to go far to be blown away by the natural beauty of the state. The ocean, the mountains and deserts, the cities and small towns, everywhere you look, there is something new to discover. The color is special, the variety of greens alone, from cactus to palm trees, is unique. Californians are explorers by nature, always looking for the latest and newest. We embrace the outdoors, the arts and diversity.  So whether you prefer a mountain cabin in Tahoe, a Mid-Century ranch in Palm Springs or a penthouse view, the splendor of the state is never ending. Nowhere else will you find so much to pull from in creating your personal design style.

Looking forward to 2012, embrace the things that are your personal favorites. Make your home a statement, the place you love to come home to and most of all your inspiration for the new year. Take the time to explore and learn new design concepts, ideas and trends. You'll be glad you did. Happy New Year. - SEW

Steve Wallace lives in Danville, California. An established Interior Designer for 25 years, his work has appeard in Palm Springs Life and he is the author of a soon to be published book about design and the way we live. He can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .