Category: Music

New York Festivals Storytellers Gala Celebrates Its Legacy of Honoring Industry Visionaries

NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, March 18, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — New York Festivals^® Television & Film Awards and Radio Awards are proud to honor distinguished news leader Stephen Capus, President of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) and former President of NBC News, with the New York Festivals 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award.

A respected global news leader and editorial strategist, Capus has spent decades shaping the modern broadcast news landscape while upholding the highest standards of journalistic excellence.

The New York Festivals Lifetime Achievement Award, launched in 2011, honors prominent industry leaders, innovators, and driving forces in the broadcast world whose groundbreaking accomplishments have advanced their field and left a lasting impact on the industry. The 2026 Lifetime Award recipient will be celebrated at the annual Storytellers Gala, recognizing TV & Film Awards and Radio Awards trophy winners from around the globe.

“It is a profound honor to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award and be recognized alongside this esteemed community of storytellers. This honor is not mine alone, but a testament to the journalists I’ve worked with throughout my career – especially my RFE/RL colleagues who are committed to showing the world what is happening inside places like Ukraine and Iran. Their passion for excellence and dedication to the truth inspires me each day. My deepest gratitude to my family, whose support has made all of this possible.”

Stephen Capus has served as President of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty since January 1, 2024, leading one of the world’s most vital independent media organizations. Prior to his appointment, he provided strategic and managerial counsel to RFE/RL leadership.

Under Capus’s leadership, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty continues its mission to promote democratic values by delivering accurate, uncensored news and fostering open debate in countries where free press is threatened and disinformation is pervasive. Reaching nearly 50 million people each week, RFE/RL fills a critical gap in regions where independent journalism is restricted, banned, or still emerging.

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty has received global recognition for its investigative reporting, human rights coverage, and public-interest storytelling.

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s programs have earned multiple awards from New York Festivals TV & Film and Radio Grand Juries. Most recently are 2025 Gold Tower for Human Rights Documentary “How Russian Forces Hunted Down A Ukrainian Shopkeeper In Bucha Bloodbath” (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service); 2025 Gold Tower for Sports Podcast “Gordafarid” (RFE/RL’s Persian-language service Radio Farda); 2024 Bronze Tower for Social Justice Podcast “Vida” (RFE/RL’s Persian-language service Farda); and 2024 Gold Tower for Human Rights Documentary for “Silent Deportation” (RFE/RL).

Over the course of a distinguished 20-year career at NBC, including nearly eight years as President of NBC News, Capus oversaw global editorial operations and guided coverage of global events. He served as executive producer of NBC Nightly News with Tom Brokaw, MSNBC’s The News with Brian Williams, and countless NBC News special reports.

From 2014 to 2018, Capus was Executive Editor of CBS News and Executive Producer of the CBS Evening News with Scott Pelley. Earlier in his career, he held roles across television, radio, and print journalism in the Philadelphia area.

Capus’s leadership and production teams have been recognized with many of the industry’s most prestigious honors, including the Edward R. Murrow Award, Alfred I. duPont-Columbia Award, multiple Emmy Awards, a George Polk Award, and a Peabody Award. In 2007, he was bestowed the Ida B. Wells Award by the National Association of Black Journalists.

A graduate of Temple University, Capus serves on the Board of Visitors of Temple’s Klein School of Communications and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

The annual Storytellers Gala, featuring award winners and industry executives from around the globe, will be streamed on May 21, 2026.

New York Festivals TV & Film Awards celebrates groundbreaking storytelling and honors content across all viewing platforms created today around the globe. The NYF Radio Awards celebrate creative audio storytellers from around the world, recognizing innovation and exceptional quality in broadcast and audio content across all genres and platforms.

All Entries in the 2026 competition will be judged by NYF’s TV & Film Awards Grand Jury comprised of producers, directors, writers, and other creative media professionals from around the globe. New York Festivals Radio Awards Grand Jury, a global roster of award-winning audio professionals, will judge the 2026 Radio Awards entries.

All award-winning entries are showcased on the TV & Film Awards and Radio Awards winners gallery.

For more information on the 2026 New York Festivals TV & Film Awards, visit https://tvf.newyorkfestivals.com/ and for the 2026 NYF Radio Awards visit https://radiohome.newyorkfestivals.com/.

About New York Festivals:

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Gayle Seminara Mandel
New York Festivals
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Drewstyle is launching Bach Party DJ for bachelorette weekends. Booking today at https://www.scottsdaledj.com/bachelorette-party, or by text at (480) 647-5849.

SCOTTSDALE, AZ, UNITED STATES, March 18, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — As Scottsdale heads into another stretch of 100-plus-degree days, DJ Drewstyle is launching Bach Party DJ Services designed specifically for bachelorette weekends and private parties at Scottsdale-area Airbnbs, with pool parties, welcome parties and pregame sets built around the pace of the weekend.

The service is built for hosts and groups who want the energy of a Scottsdale bach weekend without the usual headaches — unclear timelines, weak sound, awkward transitions, or a DJ who can’t read the room. Drewstyle’s approach is simple: show up prepared, keep the vibe moving, and run the music like it’s part of the event plan, not an afterthought.

“Pool day is the main event in Scottsdale,” Drew said. “I keep the energy up, pace it so it lasts all afternoon, and make sure the music hits while keeping everything respectful for the house and the neighborhood.”

Drew has years of experience DJing for high-end corporate and private events across Scottsdale and Paradise Valley and is known for reading the room and keeping events on track without making it about him.

Bach Party DJ Services is designed for the moments that matter most during a Scottsdale bachelorette weekend, including:

Welcome party — set the tone the first night with a clean, high-energy mix that fits the group
Pool party / pool day — open-format music built for peak heat, peak energy and all-day pacing
Pregame — tight, upbeat sets that keep the group moving before heading out
Sendoff / last-night party — a final-night set that lands the weekend strong

Drewstyle’s Scottsdale credibility is built on consistent, real-world performance in the market. He has played at Scottsdale hotspots like El Hefe and rooftop pools, and currently plays at Estelle Scottsdale.

Groups can book directly online or by text.

Book / Contact:
https://scottsdaledj.com 
Text (480) 647-5849

About DJ Drewstyle

DJ Drewstyle provides professional DJ and emcee services for corporate events and private parties across Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and greater Phoenix. Known for preparation, reliability and open-format performance, Drewstyle works directly with clients from planning through execution — with no corporate layers and no surprises on event day.

Drew Smith
Drewstyle Productions
drew@scottsdaledj.com
+1 480-647-5849
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R.M. Almonte Continues 50-State Book Tour with 49 States Completed and Wisconsin Remaining

MILWAUKEE, WI, UNITED STATES, March 18, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — As part of his ongoing 50-state book tour, author R.M. Almonte has continued a nationwide campaign featuring in-store appearances and reader engagement across multiple regions of the United States. The tour has progressed through scheduled events and coordinated outreach across state lines.

Since the early stages of the campaign, beginning with the first 10 states, Almonte and his team have managed tour planning through direct communication with bookstores nationwide. To date, the team has contacted 600+ bookstore locations, securing confirmed events through ongoing scheduling and coordination. Participating store managers have supported tour stops across a range of markets.

As the campaign has advanced, scheduling processes have varied by location. In Wisconsin, efforts to confirm a store location remain in progress and have included coordination at both the store and organizational level.

With 49 states completed or confirmed, Wisconsin remains the final state pending confirmation. The team continues outreach to secure the remaining location needed to complete the nationwide campaign.

The tour has been executed independently, with ongoing coordination of travel, scheduling, and event planning across multiple states. Confirmed events contribute to a growing national footprint and continued reader engagement.

“We’ve contacted hundreds of locations to make this tour possible,” the team stated. “We are focused on confirming the final state and completing the full 50-state tour.”

As the 50-state milestone approaches, planning is underway for expansion beyond the United States. R.M. Almonte Publishing is excited to announce that we will launch a Canada and United Kingdom tour this summer of 2026.

Samuel Hamodey
R.M. Almonte Publishing
+1 928-716-7212
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Seattle, WA, YOGAFAITH announces the launch of its groundbreaking Christian Sound Therapy Certification Program available anywhere in the world.

SEATTLE, WA, UNITED STATES, March 18, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — YogaFaith, the world’s leading Christian yoga school (has certified more graduates than any other Christian yoga school) and the only Christian institution accredited by the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT), announces the launch of its groundbreaking Sound Therapy Certification Program — the first and only Christian, Bible-based, Jesus-focused sound therapy course available anywhere in the world (Christian Yoga Association).

Offered in both a 30-Hour Certificate and a 100-Hour Sound Therapist Certification track, this deeply transformative program fills a long-overdue gap in Christian wellness education, bringing the healing power of sound into alignment with Scripture, faith, and the person of Jesus Christ.

“This course has been on my heart for years,” said Michelle, Founder of YogaFaith and Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT). “Sound healing is ancient, it is biblical, and it is powerful. All faiths and backgrounds integrate sound therapy in some way, shape or form. The time has come for Christians to get back to their biblical roots. This comprehensive dive is an invitation for all believers to a theologically grounded, evidence-based path to minister wholeness to the mind, body, and spirit.”

A Comprehensive Curriculum Like No Other

The YogaFaith Sound Therapy program offers a collegiate-level, expansive curriculum that takes students on a deep dive into both ancient and modern healing instruments. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of the history of each instrument, how to play them, and the evidence-based sound healing frequencies that support physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. The program integrates biblical foundations throughout every module, ensuring that every tool, technique, and concept is rooted in a Christ-centered worldview.

Upon completion, graduates are eligible for Continuing Education credits through Yoga Alliance, the Christian Yoga Association, and all other accepting affiliating organizations.

No Experience Required — Open to All

One of the most distinctive features of this program is its accessibility. Students do not need to be yoga teachers, sound practitioners, or have any prior experience whatsoever. Whether you are a pastor, prayer minister, wellness professional, educator, or simply someone called to serve others through healing, this course was designed for you. You can immediately enjoy the benefits of sound therapy as well as integrate it into any profession.

The program is delivered entirely online, fully self-paced, and enriched with personal mentoring and guidance from the YogaFaith faculty — offering the flexibility of independent learning with the support of a dedicated community and a lifetime family.

What Students Are Saying

Students consistently rave about the exceptional depth, value, and transformational impact of the YogaFaith experience, describing it as one of the most comprehensive and spiritually meaningful investments they have made in their education and ministry.

Enrollment is Now Open:
Course Name: God’s Sacred Symphony, Healing Through YogaFaith Sound Therapy

YogaFaith invites believers, healers, ministers, and wellness professionals worldwide to be among the first to earn this historic certification. With two tracks available — the 30-Hour Certificate for those beginning their journey and the 100-Hour Sound Therapist Certification for those seeking a deeper professional credential — there is a path for anyone and everyone.

To enroll or learn more, visit: www.yogafaith.org

YogaFaith was founded in 2013 and is the world’s only Christian yoga school accredited by the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT). YogaFaith is also certified through Yoga Alliance, the American Council of Exercise (ACE), National Association of Sports Medicine (NASM), American Sports & Fitness Association (ASFA) and the International Coaching Federation (ICF).

With a mission to integrate biblical truth with holistic wellness, YogaFaith equips believers around the globe to bring healing to the whole person — body, mind, and spirit.

Michelle Thielen
YOGAFAITH
+1 3605210963
teachertraining@yogafaith.org
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Somatic Adventures for the Soul includes a Sound Bath with Michelle Thielen, Certified Therapist, C-IAYT

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HOUSTON, TX, UNITED STATES, March 18, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The North Houston Children’s Choir (NHCC) announced today that 19 of its students have been selected to perform in the TCDA Elementary Honor Choir and the Middle School State Choir, one of the highest honors for young singers in the state.

Each year, tens of thousands of elementary and middle school students across Texas audition for the state choirs, but only about 150 students are ultimately selected for each. This year, 35 NHCC singers auditioned, with 19 earning a coveted place in the ensembles, representing an exceptional achievement for the Houston-based program. The selected students include 18 elementary choir members and one middle school student.

Students selected for the 2026 TCDA Honor Choirs include:
Manya Acharya, Grace Anderson, Brie Andrade, Gianna Avila, Katherine Burkholder, Ajishi Chouhan, Evelyn Clarke, Jessica Ferraez, Madeleine Flick, Olen Frantz, Vik Goyal, Zoey Johnson, Addison Leonard, Milan Marah, Jaden Rivera, Emmanuel Salcedo, Kennedy Tomsa, Elli Wilson and Ava Johnson.

Those chosen will travel to San Antonio in July for a three-day clinic and concert experience, where they will rehearse with nationally renowned conductors before performing in featured concerts on July 18 at the Gonzales Convention Center during the TCDA convention.

“These students have worked incredibly hard to reach this level,” said Colleen Riddle, Executive Director of the North Houston Children’s Choir. “Being selected for the state choir is an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to their dedication, the support of their families and teachers, and the power of music education to shape young lives. Opportunities like this build individual confidence, discipline and leadership that extend far beyond the stage.”

Founded in 2021, the North Houston Children’s Choir provides elementary and middle school students with opportunities to develop advanced vocal skills and perform throughout Houston and across Texas. Through its programs, NHCC helps young singers grow musically while building assertiveness, teamwork and character.

Community members will have an opportunity to support the organization and hear its talented students perform at the NHCC Brunch Fundraiser on Sunday, March 29 at Ashton Gardens North Houston. The Gala benefits musical scholarships and expanded access to advanced musical skills for children across the Greater Houston area. For more information, visit www.nhoustoncc.org.

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About North Houston Children’s Choir
The North Houston Children’s Choir (NHCC) provides talented elementary and middle school students in the greater Houston area region with opportunities to develop advanced musical skills through choral singing, movement and performance. Founded in 2021, the organization is dedicated to nurturing strong voices, strong character and strong community. NHCC ensembles perform throughout Houston and across Texas, bringing diverse communities together through music while promoting cultural appreciation and high standards of musical excellence. The choir also provides scholarships and outreach programs to ensure that more children have access to advanced music education. Learn more at www.nhoustoncc.org.

Felicia Perez
FAR Public Relations
+1 501-804-4348
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Sisters Farrah and Tamara Mechael have been formally appointed as Ambassadors for Peace by the Universal Peace Federation in affiliation with the United Nations

LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, March 18, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Two Los Angeles-based artists and advocates, first-generation Chaldean-American sisters Farrah and Tamara Mechael, have been formally recognized on an international level following their appointments as Ambassadors for Peace by the Universal Peace Federation in affiliation with the United Nations.

The Universal Peace Federation is an international organization affiliated with the United Nations, with a presence in over 160 countries and a mission focused on advancing peace through global cooperation.

The appointments recognize the sisters’ sustained work at the intersection of music, mental health advocacy, youth education, and humanitarian service. Their documented impact includes suicide-prevention conversations during a multi-city U.S. tour, arts-based education initiatives for underserved communities, autism-spectrum music instruction, ESL education, and faith based outreach programs. Together, their work highlights how music and leadership can be used as tools for peace on a global scale.

Both artists bring established industry credibility to their advocacy, including chart topping success, high-profile performances, and contributions to GRAMMY-nominated work. In addition to their creative careers, the sisters have represented American musicians in conversations surrounding creative rights and advocacy through their work with the Recording Academy, engaging with senior government leaders and congressional offices, including those of Laura Friedman and Adam Schiff.

Rooted in their Christian Middle Eastern heritage, the sisters cite faith, unity, and service as central to their lifelong commitment to the Universal Peace Federation’s mission of fostering peace through music, education, and cultural engagement.

The appointments will be formally conferred during an in-person ceremony at an upcoming Peace Gala hosted in Southwest Florida, where the sisters will receive official certificates recognizing their designation as Ambassadors for Peace. The gala brings together international leaders, diplomats, faith representatives, and influential cultural figures from around the world, and will feature a special musical performance by Farrah Mechael spanning classical, jazz, and operatic repertoire.

The appointments were nominated by Dr. Jeremy McNally of Relief Alliance/Wealth Strategy Media and Mr. Nasser Zomorod of the Universal Peace Federation. As newly appointed Ambassadors for Peace, Farrah and Tamara Mechael are committed to continuing their work using music as a tool for peace worldwide.

Farrah and Tamara Mechael are Los Angeles-based music creators and advocates whose work blends artistic expression with humanitarian outreach. Recently appointed Ambassadors for Peace by the Universal Peace Federation in affiliation with the United Nations, the sisters use music, education, and cultural engagement to promote peace, unity, and understanding around the world.

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