By JoAnn Fields
Contributing Writer
San Diego, CA: The 3rd Annual Diamond Star Divas Brunch took place on Saturday, at the Double Tree Hotel in Mission Valley on Saturday, April 12. The purpose of the annual event is to honor women in the comedy industry in celebration of women’s history month. Women honored this year included 20 year comedy veteran Hope Flood and local advocate Jacqueline Penhos, Founder of Hugs & Bags a program initiated to provide personal needs ie. toiletries, blankets, children’s clothing, for homeless women and children in down every last Saturday of every month.
“The energy in the room was amazing! The atmosphere was set by the music played by DJ Barry and the performances were outstanding. Comedianne Hope Flood gave us an injection of humor that kept us going to the end where she ended with frank conversation. This was truly a day to remember,” said Yvette Porter- Moore, Root Digger Research Services.
Makena Gargonnu, Producer of the Diamond Star Divas Brunch states, “I have been in the entertainment industry for the past 8 years. I believe that I am the only African American woman that consistently produces clean comedy shows in San Diego. There are many that have attempted to produce such shows. However, it’s a tough industry to break into and remain successful. This year we honored Comedian Hope Flood who continues to be successful at her craft for the past 20 years. She brought wisdom and shared words of encouragement for all women pursuing their dreams.
The highlight of the brunch is when Comedian Hope Flood provided the audience with a candid conversation and shared her career experiences. She stated that entertainment is a cut throat industry. Some people can lose their soul trying to be successful and make it. However for Hope, comedy is a ministry and she performs in honor of her mother who was her spiritual guide and helped her understand her purpose. Hope remembers performing and was approached by a young lady who came up to her following the show. The young lady stated she had contemplated suicide and that the comedy show really saved her life. Since that day, Hope realized the purpose of her comedy was to help people heal their soul.”
For more information regarding the Annual Diamond Star Divas Brunch and other activities please contact Makena via phone at (619)438-0777 or on www.Facebook.com/MakenaGargonnu.
Photos by JoAnn Fields:
