TONI SHELTON

HOLLYWOOD PUBLICIST SERVES AS MENTOR TO HELP RISING STARS, By Robert Oliver, San Diego Times: Word got out that Hollywood publicist Toni Shelton moved from Chicago to Hollywood, and rising stars everywhere have kept her cell phone ringing with requests to bring success to their careers. They know her reputation and know they need an experienced mentor who can guide them, and help them avoid the traps that prevent so many hopefuls from ever finding success. Shelton hails from the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago where she has owned numerous businesses. In July, she returned to Chicago to receive an award from a group of DJ’s called “The Chosen Few,” which recognizes her as the only African American woman in the city to make substantial contributions to the Chicago “house music” scene. Shelton has learned from her own career as a model and actress, appearing in Losing Isaiah and I’m Gonna Get You Sucka, and she has taken her experience and helped to teach and guide others to success as well. She also credits Chicago Defender entertainment editor Earl Calloway in promoting her career, therefore contributing to her success. The growing number of rising stars that she represents is a testimony to her ability not only to serve as a publicist, but as a mentor as well. Shelton is an industry expert who has worked as a model, photographer, agent, and manager, and now helps other achieve their dreams. All four of her children, aged 8 to 23, are working models and actors. Her book Rising Stars: an inside Guide to Breaking into the Entertainment Industry (ISBN 1-4134-6235-9, Xlibris) breaks down every aspect of the business and offers a realistic method needed to succeed. “I teach the essentials, such as building the right relationships with agents, managers, photographers, stylists, makeup artists, and others. Your preparation and attitude are key ingredients to success,” explained Shelton. Rapper, actor, model Dave Dylan is just one of the many rising stars that rely on the talents of Shelton. “Toni Shelton is the hottest Hollywood publicist, and she knows how to help in all aspects of my career. She has helped me gain success and avoid mistakes I would have made on my own.” said Dylan. Shelton also has a big heart, and is well known for her philanthropic efforts. She was presented the “2001 Women Who Make a Difference” award presented by the foundation by the same name. Most recently she helped organize places for Hurricane Katrina victims to live, and even let the victims move into three of her own houses. She said, “I’ve been in a homeless situation myself with my children, so when I saw what was happening, it made me cry. I just kept asking God what I can do to help, and the answer came back that I should open the homes I’ve been blessed with.” Through many ups and downs she has paid her dues, learned the ropes, and found success for herself and now is helping others achieve their dreams. It’s no wonder that many rising stars are coming to her for help. She maintains a website at www.myspace.com/tonishelton.ALSO,check out her son,Dave Dylan (Rapper/Model),http://www.myspace.com/davedylanfanclub and her daughter, Jen(Fashion/Jewelry Designer), http://www.myspace.com/jenhs and http://www.myspace.com/jenniehodo........................... ................................. Extended Network Banner made with MyBannerMaker.com! Click here to make your own! ........................................................... I edited my profile with Thomas' Myspace Editor V4.4 ........................................................... …………………………………………………… ………………………………………