An Australian trade union, the MEAA, has generated a world wide actor boycott on The Hobbit, to bolster their demand that producers on the film enter into collective bargaining with the NZ Equity/MEAA. The MEAA has now admitted that their collective bargaining proposal is in fact, illegal, under New Zealand law. In Sir Peter Jackson’s opinion “The Hobbit is being punished with a boycott which is endangering thousands of NZ jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars of foreign income, for no good reason.”

The attack on The Hobbit by NZ Actors Equity and the MEAA has resulted in a very public dispute, between NZ Equity and the producers of The Hobbit. The actors are claiming they are underpaid and do not enjoy the same working conditons as their overseas counterparts. This accusation that has been levelled specifically at The Hobbit, but Sir Peter Jackson says it has no basis in fact.

“The MEAA’s campaign against The Hobbit has nothing to do with the way Wingnut Films has treated actors and everything to do with using The Hobbit to bring publicity to the MEAA’s cause” said Sir Peter. “They do not seem to care about the damage they have done to our film or for that matter, to the New Zealand film industry in general. This is about nothing more than leveraging our movie for politcal gain.”

After days of explanation and legal opinions, including one from the Crown Law Office, Jennifer Ward-Lealand of NZ Equity has admitted that the MEAA’s demands to enter into collective bargaining are in fact illegal. The producers of The Hobbit say that their refusal to enter into illegal negotiations with the MEAA is the reason the film is blacklisted worldwide. “I have been waiting to hear some kind of explanation for the needless damage NZ Equity/MEAA has done to our film, but nothing has been forthcoming. While the MEAA has admitted their blacklisting of The Hobbit has no legal foundation, they have done nothing to remove the ban on the film. “I am amazed that hundreds of millions of dollars of potential income for New Zealand, has been put at risk by a tiny group people who did not even bother to do their legal homework.”

Sir Peter goes on to say: “This situation is bordering on farce because The Hobbit has been falsely accused of being a “non-union” production – by NZ Equity, who themselves have been struck off the register of Incorporated Societies, having lost their union status. It would be laughable, if there weren’t so much at stake. But there is nothing funny about people losing their jobs and the crippling effect that losing The Hobbit is going to have on our film industry” said Sir Peter.

Sir Peter felt compelled to respond to the mounting criticism in the press that his films pay actors low wages. “For years our company WingNut Films has hired actors on terms and conditions that are among the best and most generous in New Zealand. We have always treated cast and crew with kindness and respect, because it is the right thing to do, not because it is enshrined in an industry code of practice. I am a firm supporter of unions but when a tiny minority is empowered to endanger the livelihoods of so many people, something is very wrong.”

In New Zealand, Actors rates are based on the length of a film shoot, the size and prominence of a role, the actor’s level of experience, the actor’s name recognition and the actor’s past fee – among other things. These are all variables in determining individual pay rates and contract negotiations.

Sir Peter says that over the last 10 years, the fees NZ actors have earned on WingNut Films productions have been “consistently fair and generous”. “If an NZ actor is contracted to appear for ‘run of picture’ in a small supporting role, they would attract at a fee of around NZ $5000 per week. Looking at the current published rates of the Screen Actor’s Guild of America (which is the gold standard to which NZ Equity aspires), the SAG weekly minimum for the same role and time commitment is NZ $3,800 per week. Therefore Wingnut Films pays NZ actors approx $1,200 per week more than his (or her) US counterpart.”

Sir Peter says that ten years ago, in 1999, he asked New Line to cast Karl Urban in the role of Eomer in The Lord of the Rings. “The studio were insisting we cast a US actor in the role, but I went into bat for Karl – who had no marquee value in the US market at that time,- because I believed he was the best person for the role. Back then, we would typically pay an actor in a role of that size $1600 a day or $10,000 per week. Again, this rate is higher than the SAG minimum.”

NZ Actors, who do not belong to SAG, have never had any profit participation, or residuals, as they are called in the industry. However, Sir Peter says that Warner Brothers has agreed to provide a pot of money for NZ actors to share from the proceeds of the two Hobbit films. “This pot of money is not reliant on the film earning a profit, it comes from box office income, regardless of how well the films perform.”

Sir Peter maintains the residuals on The Hobbit will be worth ‘very real money’ to the Kiwi actors who are cast in the film.

“This is the first time ever NZ actors have had residuals, and we are proud that it’s being introduced on our movie. The level of residuals is better than a similar scheme in Canada, and is much the same as the UK residual scheme. It is not quite as much as the SAG rate.”

Sir Peter dismisses the suggestion that The Hobbit is moving to Eastern Europe because it is cheaper to make films over there. “People are claiming this is the reason the film is moving off shore. It’s completely absurd! Eastern Europe is only being considered because a minority group of the NZ acting community have invoked union action that has blacklisted our film, making it impossible to shoot in New Zealand. It is not an issue in any other country.”

Eastern Europe is one of six locales that Warners are currently investigating as alternative bases to set up the production. “Nobody wants to take The Hobbit off shore, but every day we are blacklisted costs Warners money and the studio is now moving to protect it’s investment.” said Sir Peter.

“It is very naive to think that we have much say in what happens from this point on. Warners gave us an opportunity to set the film up in New Zealand and we have been unable to do that successfully. Warners are cash flowing these films to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars and they will now decide how, and eventually where, this money is spent.”

Sir Peter goes on to say “In a television interview our friend, Bruce Hopkins, (who appeared as Gamling in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy) said that he failed to understand why myself and SPADA would not even meet with NZ Equity when he considered it possible to come to an agreement that was acceptable to all.” Sir Peter says SPADA has been trying to meet with the NZ Equity/MEAA for over 18 months and every invitation to meet to discuss actor’s contracts has been rebuffed by the union “for various reasons.” Sir Peter goes on to say “Bruce is right, that meeting needs to happen, it is the only logical way to solve this dispute. SPADA represents the film producers of New Zealand and is this is only organisation in the country who can negotiate actor’s terms and conditions with NZ Equity.”

“The MEAA needs to stop playing games and to sit down at the negotiating table with SPADA. This needs to be resolved and quickly for everyone’s sake.”

“SCREAM 2010” RULES POP CULTURE UNIVERSE AS THE DESTINATION FOR ALL THINGS COMIC BOOK, SCIENCE FICTION, FANTASY AND HORROR, AS EVENT WILL DEBUT WORLD PREMIERE FOOTAGE FROM “SCREAM 4,” “PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 2,” AND “THE RITE”

Show Will Also Feature “Back To The Future” 25^th Anniversary Tribute To Marty McFly’s Flux Capacitated Adventures Featuring Michael J. Fox, Lea Thompson And Elisabeth Shue

Also Set To Attend:  Sir Anthony Hopkins, David Arquette, Neve Campbell, Hayden Panettiere, Emma Roberts Wes Craven, Aaron Eckhart, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Ball, Sam Trammell, Kristen Bauer, Rutina Wesley And Many More

Two-Hour Event Premieres Tuesday, October 19 at 9PM, ET/PT

With enough star power to light up the Los Angeles night sky, Spike TV’s “SCREAM 2010” will tape at the Greek Theatre on Saturday, October 16.  The ultimate celebration of all things sci-fi, fantasy, horror and comic book, the 5th annual “SCREAM” is the first and only global event of its kind to honor and celebrate the hottest films, TV shows, comics, actors, creators, icons and pioneers who have influenced and shaped these genres.  The two-hour event premieres on Spike TV on Tuesday, October 19 (9:00 – 11:00 PM, ET/PT).

“SCREAM 2010” will feature a host of world premieres, including footage from the highly-anticipated fourth installment of one of the most influential franchises of all time – none other than the original cast and creator of the movie “Scream” along with new stars from the upcoming “Scream 4.”   David Arquette and Neve Campbell, along with 2006 Scream Mastermind Award-recipient and creator of the “Scream” franchise Wes Craven, as well as “Scream 4” co-stars Emma Roberts and Hayden Panettiere will present never-before-seen footage from the just-wrapped “Scream 4.”  The show will also include an appearance by Academy Award Winner Sir Anthony Hopkins, who will introduce world premiere footage of his upcoming supernatural thriller “The Rite,” and those in attendance at the Greek and the millions watching worldwide will also be treated to an exclusive first look at “Paranormal Activity 2,” with many more films to be announced shortly.

Additionally, “SCREAM 2010” will celebrate one of the most beloved science fiction franchises in history when Michael J. Fox, Lea Thompson and Elisabeth Shue reunite onstage in honor of the 25th anniversary of the original “Back To The Future.”  The 1985 release became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring theme park rides, an animated series, selection for preservation in the Library of Congress’ “National Film Registry,” and was even quoted in President Ronald Reagan’s “State of the Union” address in 1986.  The “Back To The Future 25^th Anniversary” Trilogy” debuts on Blu-ray and DVD worldwide on October 26, 2010.

“‘SCREAM’ has established itself as a global celebration of the most imaginative films, comics and TV shows that drive and continue to redefine pop culture,” said Casey Patterson, executive producer and senior vice president, talent, event production and studio relations, Spike TV.  “The genres of comic books, science fiction and fantasy rule the entertainment world and ‘SCREAM’ is about honoring the creative minds behind them and the incredible fans that keep it spinning.”

Also set to attend are Harvey Dent himself, Aaron Eckhart, “Avatar’s” Sigourney Weaver, “True Blood” creator Alan Ball and castmembers Sam Trammell, Kristen Bauer and Rutina Wesley, “Jackass 3D” crew members Johnny Knoxville, Bam Margera, Steve-O, the stars of AMC’s forthcoming original series “The Walking Dead,” Sarah Wayne Callies and Jon Bernthal, and many more.

“SCREAM 2010” will present awards in 33 different categories.  Christopher Nolan’s summer science fiction blockbuster “Inception” leads the way with nominations in 14 categories, including “The Ultimate Scream,” “Best Ensemble” and “Fight Scene of the Year.”  “Kick-Ass” was nominated in 13 categories for a total of 17 nominations, while Tony Stark’s adventures in “Iron Man 2” garnered 13 nominations.  HBO’s “True Blood” had the most nominations of any television series with 10.

Now through Friday, October 15, fans can vote for their favorites, as well as view exclusive red carpet and backstage coverage of the event, by visiting scream.spike.com.

Photos copyright Suzanne Eggebrecht/CFM

Avi and Joyce Arad

Avi Arad was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by Jon Voight on Sunday evening, September 26th, 2010, at a charity event held by the American Friends of The Citizens Empowerment Center in Israel(CECI).

At this event, the 5 top CECI Ambassador Project winning students from Israel and an award-winning teacher were honored for their significant educational achievements .

Joyce Arad, Avi Arad and Jon Voight

The dinner gala entitled From Vision to Reality was held for over 500 guests in the Grand Ballroom of the Kodak Theater Complex. The MC was Noah Tishbi and Cantor Arianne Brown of Sinai Temple who Performed the
National Anthem.

Among the guests were: Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon, Beny Alagem, Amy Pascal, Sony Picture Entertainment, Sam Nazarian, SBE Entertainment Group, Jimmy Delshad, Mayor of Beverly Hills, Howard Rosenman, Daniel Mani, Mani Brothers, Benjy Oberman, Shaun Toub, David Dian, Kyle Richards Umansky and the cast of Beverly Hills Housewives.

“I am honored to be among so many extraordinary people thinking about the future generation and Israel.”
– Dora Kadisa, Executive Director of CECI Organization

Event Co-Chairs were:  Adele and Beny Alagem, Dora and Neil Kadisha, Parviz and Pouran Nazarian and Cheryl and Haim Saban.

Among the Corporate sponsors were:  El Al Airlines, Omninet Capitals, P. Nazarian Foundation, Saban Family Foundation, Union Communication.

The importance of education and leadership for the next generation was highlighted throughout the course of the evening.

Mission Statement:

CECI is dedicated to paving the way for a more stable and flourishing Israel through research and education. CECI’s initiatives focus on education of democracy and leadership programs. These initiatives empower Israeli citizens with a better understanding of their rights and obligations and encourage greater civic involvement in their
communities to positively impact the future of the country. CECI is an apolitical, non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization. For more information please visit www.ceci.org.il<http://www.ceci.org.il

Photo copyright Suzanne Philips

Article Copyright Dave Burgess and Anna Turner

Kiwi movie star Karl Urban has thrown his weight behind a union demand for better conditions for actors.

Urban’s comments come after unions – including the Australian-based Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance, of which the New Zealand Actors Equity is aligned – joined forces and called for actors to boycott Sir Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit movies because it is a non-union production.

“[The] NZ Actors Equity has my full support in their struggle to gain a higher standard of contract for New Zealand performers,” Urban said.

“If he [Jackson] has the opportunity to help improve the working conditions for actors in New Zealand, to bring us more in line with our colleagues in Australia, the UK, and the US, I hope this is a dialogue which he would engage in, and an endeavour which he would support.”

The Wellington-born Urban starred in two Lord of the Rings films, and has received international recognition for roles in Star Trek and The Bourne Supremacy.

Hollywood A-listers Cate Blanchett, Hugo Weaving and Sir Ian McKellen – all reported to be involved in the US$150 million (NZ$204m) The Hobbit – also support the unions’ stance, according to an MEAA official.

Jackson said the Australian union was demanding The Hobbit production company – Warner Brothers-owned 3foot7 – consider a union negotiated agreement covering all performers.

“The demands of MEAA cannot be agreed to, or even considered, by law and therefore the only options … involve closing The Hobbit down, or more likely shifting the production to Europe.

“It could so easily happen. I’ve been told that Disney are no longer to bring movies to Australia because of their frustration with the MEAA.”

Jackson, who has called the union an “Aussie bully”, said actors were independent contractors, which made union representation illegal under New Zealand law.

MEAA disagrees, citing a 2005 landmark decision that ruled a Lord of the Rings model maker was an employee, not a contractor. The Supreme Court awarded the worker costs of $38,000.

NZ Actors Equity president Jennifer Ward-Lealand said it did not want to jeopardise production of The Hobbit in New Zealand but had been seeking a meeting to discuss the issue for more than a month.

South Pacific Pictures chief executive John Barnett agrees with Jackson that contractors cannot be in a union.

“It’s individual greed by anyone who supports it, including the actors, and an attempted power grab by the union.”

Film New Zealand chief executive Gisella Garr is concerned about the impact of the standoff.

“Should New Zealand lose The Hobbit because of this dispute, we could be not just losing these films, but also our ability to attract international film productions into the future.”

But CTU president Helen Kelly said production and filming of The Hobbit should meet minimum standards. “While there may be legal issues to work through, these are not an impediment to an agreement for standards to be reached with the union.”

Veteran Wellington director Geoff Murphy could see both sides of the argument. “It’s a difficult issue. Sometimes there can be bullying but sometimes bullying goes both ways.”

In 2003, 18 actors successfully campaigned for bigger bonuses because of the success of Jackson’s Lord of the Rings.

The Hobbit, a prequel to the Rings trilogy, will be shot in two continuous parts in Wellington.

Rising country star Jimmy Lehoux and his music are shaking things up from one side of the country to the other.

Nashville, TN (September 27, 2010) – Rising country star Jimmy Lehoux and his music are shaking things up from one side of the country to the other. Jimmy is the SingerUniverse Magazine’s Best Vocalist Of The Month for September. The Studio City, CA based publication chose his performance on the song “Even When It Rains” from hundreds of songs crossing all genres of music. SUM’s editor, Dale Kawashima, describes Jimmy’s vocal performance on “Even When It Rains”, from his as yet unreleased CD Thirteen, as a “rich, soulful performance” and describes the song as “a graceful, midtempo ballad which has a classic country feels reminiscent of George Strait and Randy Travis”.

Meanwhile, back on the east coast Lehoux and his band walked onto the stage at The Big “O” (the Oxford Fair) in Oxford, ME for round one of The Country Up Band Challenge, faced off with four other bands, and walked off as the night’s winner! Just three days later, on Sept 18th, they returned to the same stage to face five more bands, a table of judges and thousands of people in the grandstands. At the end of the night, like a heavy weight fighter victorious at a rematch, Jimmy and the band once again walked away again the winner, this time the recipient of the $25,000 first place award.

“This was a great opportunity to get a bunch of wonderful talent together from across the country. Jimmy Lehoux put on a great show and certainly deserved to leave in first place,” said judge Corey Garrison, the music director of powerhouse country radio station 99.3 The Wolf. As the accolades continue to roll in, it is clear that many people believe just as Garrison does.

Photos copyright Summit Entertainment

Bruce Willis and Karl Urban

Based on the cult D.C. Comics graphic novels by Warren Ellis and Cully Hamner, RED is an explosive action-comedy starring Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich and Helen Mirren. Directed by Robert Schwentke, the film also stars Karl Urban, Julian McMahon, Mary-Louise Parker and Brian Cox.

John Malkovich, Morgan Freeman and Bruce Willis

Frank (Bruce Willis), Joe (Morgan Freeman), Marvin (John Malkovich) and Victoria (Helen Mirren) used to be the CIA’s top agents – but the secrets they know just made them the Agency’s top targets. Now framed for assassination, they must use all of their collective cunning, experience and teamwork to stay one step ahead of their deadly pursuers and stay alive. To stop the operation, the team embarks on an impossible, cross-country mission to break into the top-secret CIA headquarters, where they will uncover one of the biggest conspiracies and cover-ups in government history.

Karl Urban

RED will hit theatres on October 15, 2010.and is rated PG-13.

Helen Mirren and John MalkovichKarl UrbanBruce Willis and Mary-Louise Parker

Age of Chivalry Festival Takes Visitors Back in Time

The Mahones, The Tossers, Seven Nations Rock the Renaissance

 For the 17th year, a medieval kingdom will take over Sunset Park with lavishly costumed knights, knaves, fine ladies and wenches as Clark County Parks and Recreation presents the annual Age of Chivalry Renaissance Festival, Oct. 8-10.

 The festival is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Oct. 8 and 9, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 10 at Sunset Park, 2601 E. Sunset Road. Admission is $10 per day for adults and $5 per day for seniors and children ages 5 to 12, ages 4 and younger are free. Three-day passes are $25 for adults and $10 for children, ages 5 to 12, and seniors, ages 55 and older. All tickets are available through Ticketmaster. Three-day passes are only available through Ticketmaster and can be redeemed at the event box office for a wristband Oct. 8, the first day of the fair.

 Several stages located throughout the festival will feature entertainment with costumed performers presenting more than 50 shows per day along with historical re-enactments, jousting tournaments, medieval pageantry and more than 100 artisans – including blacksmiths, stained glass designers, jewelers, wood workers, toy makers, perfume blenders, stone carvers and sword, dagger and armor craftsman – to demonstrate and sell their wares. Authentic food, from fish and chips to an English feast, also will be available as well as beer and ales for adults with proper identification.

 The main stage will feature the Irish rock sounds of The Mahones, The Tossers and Seven Nations. Although they all share a genre, the bands’ sounds are truly individual.

 The Mahones, Irish punk rockers from Canada, formed in 1990 by Dublin-born Finny McConnell and Barry Williams. They later brought on board Dominic “The Bomb” Whelan on drums; Sean Ryan on bass and vocals; Katie McConnell on accordion and vocals and a revolving lineup of musician friends from around the world. Throughout the years, The Mahones have shared the stage with Dropkick Murphys, Shane MacGowan and the Popes, Billy Bragg, The Band, The Buzzcocks, The Tragically Hip, Sinead O’Connor, Flogging Molly, Van Morrison and The Pogues, just to name a few. The fact the band’s name rhymes with The Ramones is no accident as their Irish punk style transcends traditional Irish and punk music genres. Eight CD releases after their first gig on St. Patrick’s Day, the band is celebrating its 20th anniversary tour.

 The Tossers were born out of the neighborhoods in Chicago’s south side in the early 1990s. Traditional Irish instruments such as the mandolin, fiddle, tin whistle and banjo mix with the hard edge of guitar, bass and drums, ranging “between rage and raucousness” but never too hard for a good ole Irish ballad. The band currently celebrated its fifth full-length CD release “Agony,” the second on Victory Records. The Tossers has held its own on stage with the likes of the Popes, Dropkick Murphys, Stiff Little Fingers, Black 47 and Flogging Molly.

The “Lancaster Intelligencer Journal” pinned down Seven Nations’ sound with one quote – “Seven Nations taught a crowd of nearly 10,000 one important lesson: bagpipes rock.” The band, which gets its roots as much from folk as dance and fusion rock, began in New York City in 1993 and has been touring full-time for the last 16 years. In that time, the band has played every state in America along with stops in Europe, Canada and Puerto Rico and at major events such as the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, New Year’s Eve at Scotland’s Royal Mile for more than 40,000 spectators and the New York City Marathon. A distinctive bagpipe and fiddle-heavy sound has garnered the band attention from the advertising world to the orchestras of America. Along with stints with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Jacksonville Symphony and the South Carolina Philharmonic, Seven Nations was the first Celtic rock band to perform with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra at the outdoor Dublin Irish Festival.

 Along with concerts all weekend, the fair will host a royal parade with kings, queens, warriors and peasants on Saturday and Sunday. The festival also offers full-contact jousting tournaments; no-holds-barred gladiator battles; black powder demonstrations, strolling minstrels, contortionists, magicians, storytellers, jokers, jugglers, flame eaters, belly dancers, trained parrots and pirates. Additional attractions include bow and arrow and axe target games, medieval barber and surgeon demonstrations and Renaissance guilds. In the 16th-century village, German, Italian, Ottoman Turk, French, Celtic, Polish and British military encampments meet on the Field of Honor for battle.

 No carry-in food or beverages, pets, lawn chairs or weapons are allowed inside the festival area. Patrons may bring one sealed bottle of water. No unauthorized vending, concessions, merchandise, literature or promotions allowed. Any participants in costume must have all related props or weapons peace tied, or those items will be denied at time of entry. No re-entry is allowed.

 Event sponsors include the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Miller Lite, 98.5 KLUC, KXNT News Radio 840, 107.5 Xtreme Radio, My LVTV, The CW Las Vegas, 100.5 Jack FM, Mix 94.1 FM and KYDZ Radio. Those interested in the Age of Chivalry Renaissance Festival can call (702) 455-8200 or visit the website at www.lvrenfair.com. Clark County Parks and Recreation events also can be found on social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook by visiting http://tinyurl.com/l87c4l.

Young police officer Shane Cooper relocates to the small country town of Red Hill with his pregnant wife Alice to start a family. But when news of a prison break sends the local law enforcement officers – led by the town’s ruling presence, Old Bill – into a panic, Shane’s first day on duty rapidly turns into a nightmare.

Enter Jimmy Conway, a convicted murderer serving life behind bars, who has returned to the isolated outpost seeking revenge. Now caught in the middle of what will become a terrifying and bloody confrontation, Shane will be forced to take the law into his own hands if he is to survive.

A taut thriller which unfolds over the course of a single day and night, and told with explosive action and chilling violence, RED HILL is a modern-day western played out against the extraordinary landscapes of high-country Australia.

RED HILL will play Chicago International Film Festival, the Mill Valley Film Festival, Fantastic Fest, and the Philadelphia Film Festival before its November 5^th release.

Check out the website at www.redhillmovie.com

Jason Lee

photo copyright TNT

TNT is ordering a second helping of its hit series MEMPHIS BEAT, starring Jason Lee (My Name Is Earl) and Alfre Woodard (Three Rivers).  TNT has ordered 10 episodes for the second season of the series, which also stars DJ Qualls (Hustle & Flow).  The show is slated to return in 2011.

MEMPHIS BEAT premiered June 22 and quickly established itself as one of the summer’s hottest shows.  In its first season, MEMPHIS BEAT averaged 4.7 million viewers and ranked as one of ad-supported cable’s Top 5 new series of the summer and the #1 Tuesday series among adults 25-54.  MEMPHIS BEAT was created by Liz W. Garcia (Cold Case) and Joshua Harto (The Dark Knight).  The series comes to TNT from George Clooney and Grant Heslov’s Smokehouse Pictures and Warner Horizon Television.

“MEMPHIS BEAT is a real treasure: a slightly off-center crime drama with great actors, memorable characters and a soundtrack steeped in Memphis sounds,” said Michael Wright, executive vice president and head of programming for TNT, TBS and Turner Classic Movies (TCM).  “We look forward to another fantastic season next year.”

In MEMPHIS BEAT, Lee plays Dwight Hendricks, a quirky Memphis police detective with an intimate connection to the city, a passion for blues music and a close relationship with his mother.  Woodard plays Lt. Tanya Rice, a demanding boss determined to keep Dwight on a short leash.  Qualls co-stars as Davey Sutton, a uniform cop who considers himself to be Dwight’s protégé.

Also starring are Celia Weston (Junebug) as Dwight’s effervescent mother; Sam Hennings (Saving Grace) as Charlie White, aka Whitehead, Dwight’s seasoned, hypertensive partner; Leonard Earl Howze (Barbershop) as Reginald Greenback, a fellow detective struggling to make ends meet with two teenage daughters; and Abraham Benrubi (ER) as Sgt. JC Lightfoot, an officer who uses Chickasaw tribal wisdom in his police work.

Three-time Grammy®-winning singer/songwriter Keb’ Mo’ (Honeydripper) provides MEMPHIS BEAT’s intoxicating, blues-laced soundtrack, including the infectious title song.

The first season of MEMPHIS BEAT was executive-produced by Clooney, Heslov, Garcia, Harto, Scott Kaufer (Boston Legal) and John Fortenberry (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia).  Sean Whitesell (House M.D.) and Smokehouse Pictures’ Abby Wolf-Weiss are co-executive producers.

MEMPHIS BEAT is TNT’s fifth summer series to be renewed this year.  TNT previously announced renewals for the hit series The Closer (seventh season), Rizzoli & Isles (second season), Leverage (fourth season) and HawthoRNe (third season).

Emerging country singer-songwriter Shane Wyatt with country sensations Little Big Town (L-R: Jimmy Westbrook, Kimberly Schlapman, Karen Fairchild and Phillip Sweet) at Firefest in Cold Spring, Minn., on July 31.

Emerging country singer-songwriter Shane Wyatt recently wowed the crowd at Firefest in Cold Spring, Minn., while sharing the stage with some of country music’s hottest stars, including Bombshel, Emerson Drive and Little Big Town. Sponsored by Wild Country 99, Firefest raises money for the Cold Spring Fire and Rescue.

Emerging country singer-songwriter Shane Wyatt keeping the party going performing at The Ranch at WeFest in Detroit Lakes, Minn., on August 5.

The following weekend, Wyatt helped keep the party going for country music fanatics at WeFest in Detroit Lakes, Minn., playing at The Ranch following Keith Urban’s headlining performance.

Shane Wyatt with country sensations Bombshel (Kristy and Kelly) at Firefest in Cold Spring, Minn, on July 31.

While tearing up the country charts with songs from his debut album The Last Cowboy – including “The Big Bad Dog,” “Whole Lotta Love” and “She Could Do Better” – Wyatt has shared the stage with his hero Randy Travis, The Bellamy Brothers, Joe Nichols, Eric Church, Phil Vassar, Kellie Pickler and Montgomery Gentry. Wyatt is currently splitting his time between doing shows around the Midwest and songwriting in Nashville for his next album.

Time Life – the home of such classic TV as GET SMART, THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E and THE SMOTHERS BROTHERS COMEDY HOUR – will debut a DVD collector’s set of one of the most eagerly-anticipated, previously unreleased TV classics with THE SIX MILLION DOLLAR MAN: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION.  Beginning September 14, this definitive set from one of the iconic pop culture smashes of the ‘70s will be available for pre-order exclusively online at 6MDM.com and will feature all five action-packed seasons never before available in the U.S. on any format, as well as a stunning collection of all-new extras certain to thrill fans both old and new.

The muscular set — the 4th most requested unreleased show at TVShowsonDVD.com – will be housed in ultra-collectible packaging sporting an audio chip and eye-popping 3-D lenticular artwork.  Across 40 DVDs, the complete series will feature all 100 digitally-preserved hour-long episodes – including three presented in their original 2-hour broadcast versions — all of which have been remastered from the original, uncut broadcast versions.  The set also contains more than 17 hours of all-new bonus material specially created just for this collection, highlighted by new, in-depth interviews with Lee Majors (Col. Steve Austin) and Richard Anderson (Oscar Goldman) among others.  Also included will be the three pilot TV movies (“The Six Million Dollar Man”, “Wine, Women and War”, “Solid Gold Kidnapping”), the three reunion TV movies (“The Return of the Six Million Dollar Man and the Bionic Woman”, “Bionic Showdown” (featuring Sandra Bullock) and “Bionic Ever After?”) and the never-before-released cross-over episodes of The Bionic Woman, all of which have also been digitally restored from the original source material.[i]  Additionally, for the true completist, the set also contains the alternative syndicated edits of the pilot and reunion TV movies, which, when added together, makes for more than 30 unbelievable hours of bonus programming.

As OSI did with astronaut Steve Austin, Time Life has the technology and capability to make the world’s most singular Six Million Dollar Man completist’s set – better…stronger…faster.  Enhancing the series long-awaited release are countless hours of bonus features including intimate interviews with the cast and crew (including Lindsay Wagner (Jaime Sommers), executive producer Harve Bennett, and writer Kenneth Johnson).  Also featured are a staggering seventeen original featurettes on everything from “Real Bionics: How Science Fiction Is Becoming Science Fact” and “The Bionic Sound Effects” to “The Search for Bigfoot” and “The Six Million Dollar Man’s Best Villains, Best Fights”; the two-part featurette “TV Goes Bionic: The Untold Story of The Six Million Dollar Man” which goes behind the scenes to explore the series like never before; and, several featurettes celebrating the series V.I.P. guest stars such as Lee’s then-wife, Farrah Fawcett-Majors (who made four guest appearances), Andre the Giant, Kim Basinger, Sonny Bono, Lou Gossett, Erik Estrada, Stefanie Powers, John Saxon, Cathy Rigby, William Shatner, Suzanne Somers and many more.  Additionally, there’s audio commentary on six episodes by writer Kenneth Johnson and director Cliff Bole, and an interactive bonus entitled “Bionic Breakdown” that will allow fans the ability to click on Steve Austin’s eye, arm or legs to learn more about each one of his bionic enhancements; from night-vision to cauterizing veins to running speeds that exceed 65 miles per hour, “Colonel Austin’s” skills and abilities are catalogued here with episode clips as visual reference.

One of the pop culture smashes of the ‘70s, THE SIX MILLION DOLLAR MAN starred Lee Majors as Colonel Steve Austin, a top NASA pilot critically injured when his experimental spaceplane crashed. Oscar Goldman (Anderson), head of OSI,  used Austin as a test subject for an experimental procedure, rebuilding his body using cybernetic technology, making him the world’s first bionic man. Now, Austin works for Goldman and the OSI, protecting the nation from  myriad  threats.  Based on the novel Cyborg by Martin Caidin, THE SIX MILLION DOLLAR MAN launched with several made-for-TV movies in 1973, which then spun off into a hit for ABC, running from January 1974 to March 1978.  During its run, the program made Majors a pop culture icon, spawned three reunion shows, another series (The Bionic Woman, starring Lindsay Wagner) and thousands of licensed products, making THE SIX MILLION DOLLAR MAN one of the defining TV shows of the “Me” decade.

 The Six Million Dollar Man is a copyright and trademark of Universal Studios and used under license.

THE SIX MILLION DOLLAR MAN: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION

Release Date:        November 23, 2010

Pre-Order Begins: September 14, 2010

List Price:                 $239.95                                     

Collection includes:

• 40 DVDs in a collectible packaging featuring a special audio chip and 3-D lenticular artwork
• All 100 original, unedited episodes (1974-1978)
• All three pilot TV Movies: “The Six Million Dollar Man”, “Wine, Women and War”, “Solid Gold Kidnapping, digitally remastered from original source materials
• All three made-for-TV reunion movies: The Return of the Six Million Dollar Man and the Bionic Woman”, “Bionic Showdown” and “Bionic Ever After?”), digitally remastered from original source materials
• 17 Featurettes:

–          Real Bionics: How Science Fiction Is Becoming Science Fact

–          An Iconic Opening: The Six Million Dollar Man Show Open Never Disappointed

–          The Bionic Sound Effects

–          The Search For Bigfoot

–          The Six Million Dollar Fans: So Loyal, So Bionic!

–          The Six Million Dollar Man’s Best Villains, Best Fights

–           TV Goes Bionic: The Untold Story Of The Six Million Dollar Man, Part I, II

–          Top Secret: The OSI, NASA and Bionics

–          The Pop Culture Effect

–          The Reunion Films: Life After The Series

–          Bionic Action…Figures!!!

–          The Stunts Of The Bionic Age: Pushing The Envelope

–          And more…

• 6 Audio Commentaries: Writer Kenneth Johnson on “The Bionic Woman”, “The Bionic Woman, Part II”, “The Secret of Bigfoot”, “The Secret of Bigfoot, Part II” and Director Cliff Bole on “The Blue Flash” and “Vulture of the Andes”
• Mini-biographies of the actors and their characters: Getting to Know: “Steve Austin”, “Jaime Sommers”, “Oscar Goldman”, “Rudy Wells”
• OSI Mission Debriefings featuring all-new extensive interviews with Lee Majors, Richard Anderson, Martin E. Brooks, Executive Producer Harve Bennett and writer/producer Kenneth Johnson
• Season 1-5 VIPs: A Celebration of The Six Million Dollar Man Guest Stars
• Interactive Bonus Feature: “Bionic Breakdown”

The American Friends of the Citizens’ Empowerment Center in Israel will host an exclusive gala,“ From Vision to Reality”, on September 26, 2010 at the Grand Ballroom of the Kodak Theatre in the Hollywood / Highland Complex.

Film producer Avi Arad, the event honoree, will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding legacy as an impressive role model for today’s youth. The 5 top “Ambassador” student winners from Israel, and award-winning teacher, will also be acknowledged for significant educational achievements.

Approximately 500 guests are expected, including Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon and other prominent community members, business/entertainment industry leaders, and Israeli and U.S. dignitaries. The evening will boast a red carpet reception at 6:30 pm and dinner at 7:30 pm. A high-tech multimedia show will follow, featuring the faces and sounds of Israel through lights,music, and dance. The presentation will highlight Israel’s 62 years of accomplishments, her different ethnic backgrounds, and thequest for empowering citizens through education.

Set against the backdrop of America’s growing disproval of current economic policies, I Want Your Money takes a provocative look at our nation’s deeply depressed economy using the words and actions of Presidents Reagan and Obama. The film exposes the shocking reality of a bloated government while offering alternatives to help steer the United States back towards firm fiscal ground.  By utilizing interviews with key leaders of America’s conservative movement – Newt Gingrich, Steve Forbes, Mike Huckabee – movie clips, dramatic portrayals, music, graphics and even comedic animation, I Want Your Money tells the story in the plainest terms of the choice between ‘Reganomics’ and ‘Obamanomics’.

The film is rated PG and opens in theatres on October 15th.  Learn more about it at www.iwantyourmoney.net.

Matt Braun is a talent designer that made beer drinking just a little more fun with Tuned Pale Ale.

Tuned Pale Ale is a product that explores the musical affordances in everyday objects and promotes social spontaneity. While drinking beer, people become musically encouraged and often start making music with objects around them. This product aims to promote more of this type of social interaction. This product aims to inform users about the musical qualities of existing bottles and to make the bottle a better instrument.If you want to be notified when you can buy TPA or would like more information send an email.

*Yes, a small batch of microbrew was produced and sampled with great success. Tuned Pale Ale is currently seeking larger brewing and distribution options. Please contact for more information. Source

The first part of the Tuned Pal Ale project focused on informing users of the musical qualities of existing bottles. A clearly marked graphic on the side of the label tells a user what notes can be played at certain levels of liquid by blowing across the top.

photos copywrite image.net

Kodi Smit-McPhee

“LET ME IN” is the story of a young boy (Kodi Smit-McPhee – “THE ROAD”)  who is frequently bullied and a young girl (Chloe Morentz -“DIARY OF A WIMPY KID”) that moves in next door with her caretaker. It is established that she is a vampire and, after losing her caretaker, must leave in order to survive. A story of innocent love entangled in murder, mystery, and horror.

Richard Jenkins and Chloe Moretz

Elias Koteas

“LET ME IN” opens nationwide on October 1st.  For more info visit www.letmein-movie.com

OTTAWA-BASED POP SINGER LOLA SPRIGGS CELEBRATES HER LATEST FEEL GOOD SINGLE AND MUSIC VIDEO FOR ‘I WANNA LOVE YOU’ FROM HER NEW EP ‘NOBODY BUT YOU’

The multi-talented Ottawa, Ontario based pop singer Lola Spriggs is gearing up to release her new single “I Wanna Love You” from her latest EP Nobody But You on Canada’s radio waves this month and unveils her music video to the track directed by James Campbell on YouTube.

Coinciding with the release, Lola is continuing to enjoy a stream of media coverage in both Canada and the U.S. Lola is also taking local media by storm with her infectious music and compelling yet relatable story which she share in her spotlights in publications such as The Ottawa Sun and Orleans Online. She also made a recent TV appearance on the local cable show Rogers Daytime and is lined up for an interview with Big Blend Magazine on Sunday, August 8 for their popular “Champagne Sundays” radio show.

Lola’s breakthrough U.S. single and title track to her new CD “Nobody But You,” which peaked at #11 on the FMQB AC40 Chart in May of this year.

No stranger to musical accolades, she’s scored numerous big radio singles in her native Canada since her 2004 debut EP Expressed and its mainstream retro-rock flavored follow-up Lifescrapes—and opened for notable acts including Rock and Hyde, Parachute Club and Pursuit of Happiness.

Spriggs’ solo recording career has included several Canadian radio singles and three popular projects as she slowly discovered her true creative path. She donated 100 percent of the proceeds from the Expressed EP to local charities; reflected the angst, anger and troubled times of her younger self on the uniquely titled Lifescrapes; and showed her fearless attitude in a bluesy-country setting on Barefoot.

The title track “Nobody But You,” the lead single from her upcoming new six-song CD co-written by internationally acclaimed producer Marcus Kane (Snow, Joey Boy), put her into exclusive company with pop superstars Rob Thomas, Daughtry, Michael Buble, Colbie Caillat, John Mayer, Lady Antebellum, Air Supply and emerging star Adam Lambert.

Air Supply GRAHAM RUSSELL and RUSSELL HITCHCOCK performed an exclusive live acoustic set at Spaghettini Grill & Lounge on July 31. CREDIT: LYNN OLSON (lynnjazz.wordpress.com)

As hitmakers Russell Hitchcock and Graham Russell of Air Supply continue to enjoy success from Mumbo Jumbo— their Odds On Records debut and first album of original material in eight years—the duo recently treated their SoCal fans to back-to-back performances of the their world famous love songs.

Air Supply GRAHAM RUSSELL; KTLA-TV guest host BRIAN MCFADDEN; and RUSSELL HITCHCOCK on July 30. CREDIT: LUCK Media & Marketing, Inc.

On July 30, the legendary duo stopped by KTLA TV’s Morning News for a live performance (click here to view them sing their classic song “All Out of Love“), followed by an exclusive acoustic show on July 31 at Spaghettini Grill & Lounge. The intimate set was held in conjunction with KOST 103.5 FM and featured both classic hits and new songs including their first single “Dance With Me,” the track that put Air supply back on the Billboard AC Charts after 17 years.

Air Supply also earned a spotlight article in the Long Beach Press Telegram and Daily Breeze surrounding their L.A. blitz. Click here to read the full story.

The iconic pop-rockers keep the momentum going as they gear up for the release of their dynamic follow-up single “Faith In Love,” set to hits the airwaves this month.

On the day of Mumbo Jumbo’s release, Russell and Hitchcock were featured in a prominent article in Billboard Magazine titled “Still Supplying The Hits After 35 Years.” The online version of the piece includes audio snippets from Billboard writer Gary Trust’s interview in which Air Supply’s Russell and Hitchcock discuss touring, songwriting and Australia’s music scene.

Just weeks after Graham Russell was honored with a BMI Million-Air Certificate recognizing 3 million performances of the duo’s hit “All Out Of Love,” Air Supply’s new song was the #1 most added track on the FMQB AC40 Chart, and one of the most added on the R&R (Radio and Records) AC Chart as well as the Mediabase AC chart.

Air Supply is touring the world again this year after a whirlwind schedule these past few years that has included hundreds of concerts everywhere from The Philippines and Singapore to Malaysia, China, Taiwan, Thailand, Israel, Brazil, Argentina and Vietnam.

Students crack up when Coke machine does the unexpected.

Legendary J.C.’s opened for James Brown-H.O.B. downtown Disney, Fla will appear at SOSMP’s Jambando.

SPIRIT OF THE SUWANNEE MUSIC PARK, LIVE OAK, FLA –

The very first Jambando In The Park will be held Sept. 17-18 at the fabulous Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park (SOSMP) located on the banks of the famous Suwannee River in Live Oak, Fla! Artists include The Legendary J.C.‘s, Cope, Thomas & Olivia Wynn with Chris Bell, the Burning’ Smyrnans, Junkie Rush, funkUs, Middle Rhythm Session, The Funky Seeds, Rob Irie, Marley’s Collie, Kaleigh Baker with Nathan Anderson, Green Sunshine, Jeff White with Fancy Pants, Acoustic Swamp Project, Legacy and All Capital Kyle.

Jambando was born in 2003 from an idea for the Orlando Fringe Festival, then further developing through an ongoing concert series at The World Famous Hard Rock Live. Jambando makes its current home at The Historic Plaza Theatre in Downtown Orlando’s “Milk District.” Each concert is created through a collective group of musicians and volunteers and is a united and conscious effort to establish a “musical brand” for multi-genre Central Florida music, a mark of quality that has inspired a movement and fostered a community of local and regional music fans proud to call Jambando their own.

Burning Smyrians

This is Jambando’s first camping extravaganza and the SOSMP has been chosen for its beauty, amenities and natural surroundings. As part of the incentive to spend the entire weekend, the SOSMP is offering a special cabin and golf cart deal to Jambando In The Park guests. Guests may have four people to a cabin with such amenities as a queen size bed, pullout couch, kitchen, bathroom, shower and air conditioning all for just $400.

Marley's Collie

Jambando tickets are $25 advance through Sept. 16; $30 at the gate
and include primitive camping and two days of music, taxes not included! Tickets may be purchased by calling the SOSMP at 386-364-1683, going to the website at www.musicliveshere.com or by emailing spirit@musicliveshere.com. Tickets are also on sale in Orlando at Park Ave. CDs and in Tampa at Sound Exchange.

Events begin in the Music Hall Friday night, Sept. 17 at 7 p.m.; Saturday in the Amphitheater at 1 p.m. Events on the Engine Barn porch begin at 2:30 p.m. Saturday.
Jambando In The Park is headlined by emerging central Florida acts The Legendary J.C.’s, Cope, The Burnin Smyrnans and Thomas Wynn. Each of these acts has had success touring and playing festivals around the country such as Bear Creek Arts and Crafts Festival, Langerado, Bonnaroo, Voodoo Fest and many others.”

While you are visiting the SOSMP, stop by The Store of the Village to check out the musical instruments, SOSMP T-shirts, arts and crafts items, food, drinks, ice or marshmallow roasting sticks, and don’t forget to check out the new hand-dipped ice cream and pizza store next door and cool yourself and the kids with a sweet, delicious cone of ice cream, other lip-smacking ice cream concoctions or a yummy pizza! It will be so good!

As always, the SOS Café and Restaurant will be open to delight your culinary senses with delicious specials, regular menu items and a variety of beverages at regular prices. Featured in the Music Hall Saturday night in a separate event will be the Rusty Groove Band playing country music for your listening and/or dancing pleasure!

Admission

to the Music Hall Saturday night, Sept. 18, is $5 per person with the $5 applied to your food and beverage bill Saturday night only. The Music Hall opens at 6 p.m. Saturday night with music beginning  at 8 p.m. The Music Hall remains open Friday and Saturday night until 1 a.m., serving dinner until 10 p.m. The SOS Café and Restaurant is always open during special events and opens at 7:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday morning.

The SOSMP is located at 3076 95^th Drive 4.5 miles north of Live Oak, Fl off US 129 at the famous Suwannee River. The park is 4.5 miles south of Interstate 75 and 4.5 miles north of Interstate 10 off US 129.

For more information about any of the SOSMP’s many other upcoming events and festivals such as the Mike Mullis Variety Show, Suwannee River Jubilee, Malt Shoppe Memories Band, Tuff Times Band, Magnolia Fest, Big Engine Band and Halloween Contest, Bear Creek Music and Art Festival, Raid on the Suwannee Civil War Re-enactment, Thanksgiving Dinner, Old Tyme Farm Days, Suwannee Lights and more, purchase tickets or to make reservations for cabins or RV parking for this event or the 2011 Suwannee River Jam, you may call the SOSMP at 386-364-1683, go to the website at www.musicliveshere.com or email spirit@musicliveshere.com. We’ll be looking for ya’ll!

photo copyright Suzanne Philips

On Saturday, September 11, 2010 Martyn Lenoble and Christina Applegate will host the Surfrider Foundation’s fifth annual Celebrity Expression Session at First Point, Surfrider Beach in Malibu. The 45-minute free surf gives celebrity surfers from music, film and television the opportunity to have some fun demonstrating their skills on Malibu’s famous point, while also raising money and awareness for the Surfrider Foundation.

“The Surfrider Foundation is a fantastic organization doing great things for our beaches and coastlines,” says Martyn Lenoble. “We are extremely excited and honored they approached us to host and surf in the Celebrity Expression Session.”

This is the third year that the Malibu Surfing Association’s MSA Classic will host the Surfrider Foundation’s Celebrity Expression Session, which has attracted celebrity supporters such as Brandon Boyd, Jason Mraz, Minnie Driver and Eric Balfour, and raised more than $10,000 in support of the group’s work to protect oceans, waves and beaches.

“It’s great to see these celebrities, all of whom are tremendously passionate about our beaches and coastlines, coming out to support the organization,” says Matt McClain, Surfrider Foundation’s Director of Marketing & Communications. “Of course being able to paddle out and have First Point all to themselves for an hour has got to be a pretty big incentive.”

In addition to simply showcasing their surfing abilities, the celebrity contestants will be helping to raise money for the Surfrider Foundation. For every wave caught and ridden, event sponsors Cali Bamboo and Barefoot Wine will donate $100 per wave back to the Foundation.

First held in 1962, the MSA Classic is the premier contest in the Coalition of Surfing Clubs annual series and has more than 275 athletes representing elite surfing clubs from across the globe.

Admission to the Surfrider Foundation Celebrity Expression Session and MSA Classic is free.

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Opera legend Plácido Domingo were among the luminaries on hand  for the official premiere of “Gota de la Vida” song and video release event benefiting City of Hope. The song, which was composed and produced by Universal Latino recording artist Arthur Hanlon, was performed by a “New Generation” of Latin talent, including Marcos Witt, Diego Verdaguer, Sandra Echeverria, Luz Rios, Alih Jey, Yesy Milano, Christian Daniel, Denise Stefanie, Jacky Ibarra and Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles. This was the first time-screening of the video.

Hosts Fernando Arau and Gabriela Teissier also introduced performances by Ana Isabelle, Diego Verdaguer, accompanied by Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles. Also on hand was City of Hope’s Joseph Alvarnas, M.D., director, Quality Systems for Cellular Therapeutics, Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation at City of Hope, who introduced Rodrigo Nuñez, an aplastic anemia survivor and City of Hope nurse. The audience shared a tearful moment as World Boxing Champ Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero introduced his wife Casey, whose life was saved by a bone marrow transplant in January 2010.

The event marked the launch of the historic song and video “Únete con la Gota de la Vida,” which commemorates a national health awareness campaign to encourage the Latino community to join the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) and support City of Hope, a leading research, treatment and education center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases.

The “Gota de la Vida” video was directed by Grammy-award winning music video and film director Simon Brand and it shows a dramatic succession of artists, including Placido Domingo, David Bisbal, Marco Antonio Solis, Gloria Estefan, Luis Enrique, Jenni Rivera, Marcos Witt, Luis Fonsi, Aleks Syntek y Tito El Bambino singing the song, whose lyrics are a call to action for Latinos to join the NMDP. The song and video are being distributed by Universal Latino.

The executive producers of “La Gota de la Vida” are veteran Latin music executive Luis Medina and Salvador Treviño, a businessman who co-founded the “Únete con la Gota de la Vida” campaign targeted at Hispanics ten years ago and who has spearheaded efforts to raise awareness on the importance of encouraging Hispanics and Latinos to register as bone marrow donors; it is far easier to find compatible donors among people of the same ethnic background.

“We are very grateful to the 46 artists who participated in the making of La Gota de la Vida song and video. They are the ambassadors of our efforts to raise bone marrow registry awareness in the Hispanic communities,” said Mike Mortensen, chairman of City of Hope’s Hispanic Southern California Food Industries Circle.

In 2010, more than 137,000 new cases of blood-related cancers will be diagnosed in the U.S. Only 30 to 40 percent of patients who need bone marrow transplantation will find a match within their family, while others will be directed to the NMDP to find an unrelated match. Currently, there is a need for more Latino donors in the NMDP.

For more information about the “La Gota de la Vida” national awareness campaign, visit www.uneteconlagotadelavida.com.

Summer science fiction blockbuster “Inception” leads the way with nominations in 14 categories for Spike TV’s fifth annual “SCREAM.” Taping on Saturday, October 16 at The Greek Theater in Los Angeles, CA, “SCREAM” is the first and only global event of its kind to honor the luminaries in the sci-fi, fantasy, horror and comic book genres, and the actors, creators, icons and pioneers who have influenced and shaped the industry over the past year. 

This year’s show will also continue the tradition of featuring exclusive World Premieres from some of the most anticipated movies of 2011.  The two-hour extravaganza will premiere on Spike TV on Tuesday, October 19 (9:00–11:00 PM, ET/PT).  Presenters and musical performers will be announced shortly.

“SCREAM nominees comprise the top four grossing films of 2010, totaling a US box office of over 1 billion dollars among them, and that doesn’t even include 2009’s Avatar, the most successful film in history,” said Casey Patterson, executive producer of “SCREAM 2010” and senior vice president of event production, talent development and studio relations for Spike TV.  “This October, the fans, whose reverence for these genres makes them the commercial successes that they are, will once again have their night on Spike dedicated to honoring their heroes.”

Directed by Christopher Nolan, “Inception” nabbed 15 nominations in 14 categories, one for every year the critically hailed project was in development, including nods for “The Ultimate Scream,” “Best Ensemble,” and “Fight Scene of the Year.”  “Kick-Ass” was nominated in 13 categories for a total of 17 nominations, while Tony Stark’s adventures in “Iron Man 2” garnered 13 nominations.  HBO’s “True Blood” had the most nominations of any television series with 10. 

Following are several of the categories and nominees for Spike TV’s “SCREAM 2010”.  For the full list fans can go to scream.spike.com:

THE ULTIMATE SCREAM
·    Alice in Wonderland
·    Avatar
·    District 9
·    Inception
·    Iron Man 2
·    Kick-Ass
·    Lost
·    True Blood
·    The Twilight Saga: Eclipse
·    Zombieland

BEST SCIENCE FICTION MOVIE
·    Avatar
·    District 9
·    Inception
·    Iron Man 2
·    Predators
·    The Road

BEST FANTASY MOVIE
·    Alice in Wonderland
·    The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
·    Kick-Ass
·    Toy Story 3
·    The Twilight Saga: Eclipse
·    Where the Wild Things Are

BEST HORROR MOVIE
·    The Crazies
·    A Nightmare on Elm Street
·    Paranormal Activity
·    Shutter Island
·    Thirst
·    Zombieland

BEST TV SHOW
·    Dexter
·    Doctor Who
·    Lost
·    True Blood
·    V

BEST DIRECTOR
·    Neill Blomkamp, District 9
·    Tim Burton, Alice in Wonderland
·    James Cameron, Avatar
·    Roland Emmerich, 2012
·    Christopher Nolan, Inception
·    Martin Scorsese, Shutter Island

BEST SCREAM-PLAY
·    District 9, written by Neill Blomkamp and Terri Tatchell
·    Inception, written by Christopher Nolan
·    Kick-Ass, written by Matthew Vaughn and Jane Goldman
·    Shutter Island, written by Laeta Kalogridis
·    Toy Story 3, written by Michael Arndt
·    Zombieland, written by Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese

Some of the nominees’ reactions include:

“I’m thrilled to be included in this exceptional group of actors and so excited that “True Blood” has been recognized by the Scream Awards,” said Sam Trammell, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his work on HBO’s vampire hit.

Stephen Lang, nominated for Best Villain for his role in the highest grossing film of all time, “Avatar,” by saying, “”I am deeeeply honored to be included among such a vile, loathsome and scoundrelly set of blackguards.”

Sharlto Copley, star of “District 9,” said “Thank you.  I’m very grateful to the distinguished “SCREAM” advisory board for these nominations,” for the nods he received for Breakout Performance and Best Science Fiction Actor.

Ballots were sent out to Spike TV’s “SCREAM 2010” advisory board, consisting of some of the most respected and well-known members of the horror, sci-fi, fantasy and comic book worlds who were responsible for advising on categories and determining nominees in each category.  All films, television shows and comic books were deemed eligible for inclusion if they were released between July 16, 2009 and July 16, 2010 and were representative of the genres listed.  Winners will be determined by online voting at scream.spike.com.

Esteemed members of this year’s advisory board include:

·    TIM BURTON
·    JOHN CARPENTER
·    WES CRAVEN
·    DAMON LINDELOF
·    RIDLEY SCOTT
·    QUENTIN TARANTINO
·    JOSS WHEDON

A full list of Spike TV’s 2010 Advisory Board members can be found at scream.spike.com.
   
Beginning today, Monday, August 31 and continuing until Friday, October 15 fans can vote for their favorites, as well as view exclusive red carpet and backstage coverage of the event, by visiting scream.spike.com.

Article by Suzanne Philips

photos courtesy of CBS

George Eads, Justin Bieber

Tween music sensation Justin Bieber will guest star on the Season Premiere of “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation”.  The singer will play Jason McCann, a troubled teen who is faced with a tough decision regarding his only brother.  The premiere will begin a story arc for Bieber’s character that will conclude later in the season.  The Season Premiere of “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation will be on Thursday, September 23rd at 9:00 pm on CBS.

Trailer for Sunshine on Leith. Follow the highs and lows of Ally (Michael Moreland) and his friend Davy (Billy Boyd) as they return home to Leith from the army. Families, friendships and life are not all plain sailing in this funny and moving story about love and life.

Photo courtesy of Basically Billy Boyd.com

I know what your are thinking, “What or who is a Leith?” Wikipedia had that answer.

Leith is a district and former municipal burgh in the north of the city of Edinburgh at the mouth of the Water of Leith and is the port of Edinburgh, Scotland. It lies on the south shore of the Firth of Forth, in the unitary local authority of the City of Edinburgh. Firth is the word in the Lowland Scots language used to denote various coastal waters in Scotland. In mainland Scotland it is used to describe a large sea bay, or even a strait.

Billy Boyd is best known for his portrayal of Peregrin “Pippin” Took in Peter Jackson’s epic film trilogy of The Lord of the Rings as well as roles in movies such as Master and Commander: the Far Side of the World. He has toured the UK in stage productions including Trainspotting, Widows and Caledonia Dreaming.

Stephen Greenhorn is a hugely successful playwright and screenwriter whose many credits include Dr Who, River City & Passing Places. Director James Brining is Artistic Director of Dundee Rep and their recent productions include Gypsy, Romeo & Juliet and A Christmas Carol for which James has just been nominated for a CATS award for best director.

The Proclaimers have had huge success across the globe with hits such as I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles), I’m on My Way and Letter From America and have written stunning songs that have ‘a bite and pathos to them that make them feel as if they have been wrenched straight from the heart’ (The Times).

With a talented company of over 20 including a full live band, SUNSHINE ON LEITH is a vibrant, energetic piece of musical theatre, loved by audiences and critics alike. This is set to be the musical event of the season so whatever you do, don’t miss it!

SOSMP Radio studio's first day on air Aug. 8, 2010 with bluegrass radio host Don Miller

SPIRIT OF THE SUWANNEE MUSIC PARK, LIVE OAK, FLA – It was an historic day Aug. 8, 2010 when the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park (SOSMP) in Live Oak, Fla launched its first radio studio. Don Miller’s longtime bluegrass radio show was the first broadcast to air at the studio, going out over WLV0 106.1 FM radio. Famed bluegrass radio DJ “Doctor” Don Miller brought his 9-year-old bluegrass show to the SOSMP to be the very first program aired on the studio nestled under the moss-laden oak trees in the Arts and Crafts Village.

The program is made possible in cooperation with WLVO radio station owner Leon Petterson, who also broadcasts some of the live musical events from the SOSMP and plans to do even more.

Leon Petterson WLVO 106.1 owner

“Bluegrass is the foundation of the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park,” said SOSMP CEO/President James Cornett. “My family started taking me to bluegrass festivals as a child. We produced our first festival when I was 12,” he added. “At that time it was a family project, and it continues today. We are excited about our expanding partnership with WLVO and our ability to grow our business. Radio is a perfect fit and a great asset to the Park,” Cornett stated. “Don Miller has been a stalwart in the bluegrass community nationwide. He has helped facilitate this dream of our late Uncle Charles, and we are grateful,” Cornett said. “We hope to work with Leon Petterson and Don Miller to expand programming, including more musical genre’s and talk show formats. Our intent is to also open this studio on the web to listeners world wide, including our Spirit of the Suwannee guests,” Cornett said. “Streaming live on the world wide web has the potential to reach hundreds of thousands of guests who can listen to the activities in the Park in real time as they happen, staying in touch with the Suwannee River Valley and encouraging future visits to the Park and local community.”

Bob and Jean Cornett, who started the SOSMP 25 years ago, have hosted Kentucky’s oldest bluegrass festival, the Festival of the Bluegrass in Lexington, KY, for the past 36 years. Jean has brought many famous bluegrass artists to the SOSMP. She has also helped develop the Suwannee Spirit Kids Music Camp, held four times a year at the SOSMP, to interest kids age 4-17 in learning the instruments of bluegrass.

James Cornett SOSMP President & CEO

Miller began his bluegrass show at Lake City’s Power Country 102.1 as the doctor of bluegrass. A week after completing nine years there, Miller began his 10^th year of the program at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, his first love. “When Bob and Jean (Cornett, SOSMP founders) came in the gate, I was right behind them as the UPS man! I‘ve been coming here ever since!” Miller said. Miller is no longer the UPS man, but he’s produced many bluegrass shows at the SOSMP headlined by national artists and is also part of the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) where he is stage manager for artists during its annual convention and fan event. “Every year we have fan fest for three days. I’m lucky enough to be the stage manager and get to meet everyone who performs. I usually take a cooler full of Nettles’ Sausage (from Lake City, Fla) with me,” Miller notes with a sly smile. “Mike Snider said he likes to see me but would rather see the sausage!” Miller quipped.

Miller is an accomplished banjo picker who was invited in 2003 to play on the Grand Ole Opry. “I felt like a jackass at the Kentucky Derby, but I enjoyed it!” he said, giving that laugh thousands of bluegrass fans are very familiar with from his bluegrass show. He’s also entertained former US President Jimmy Carter and his family at one of President Carter’s family reunions.

SOSMP Radio studio's first radio host Don Miller works the phones 8-9-10 while broadcasting his bluegrass show in Arts & Crafts Village of the SOSMP

Miller’s passion for music led him to purchase just about every kind of instrument you can imagine. He plans to have occasional jam sessions during the radio show in the future that is sure to be a hoot! You never know who might just stop by to play live on a Sunday afternoon at Florida’s premier camping and music park! Come out and get your cameras ready!

Broadcasting from 5 – 7 p.m. every Sunday afternoon from a quaint, rustic little studio in the Arts and Crafts Village, “Doctor” Don Miller will bring his rib-tickling brand of humor to the station along with the old-tyme bluegrass music made famous by the late Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys. Monroe and his group entertained thousands of fans at the SOSMP just before Monroe’s death Sept. 9, 1996. Monroe is credited with inventing the music we know today as bluegrass when he took old-tyme Appalachian music, added blues and gospel and invented a radical new sound in the 1930s-40s vastly different from anything ever heard before. Many of the great musicians who played with Monroe’s Bluegrass Boys over Monroe’s 60 plus years in the business such as Chubby Wise, Vassar Clements, Peter Rowan and others have also entertained at the beautiful SOSMP. Other entertainers include Alison Krauss, Ricky Skaggs, The Seldom Scene, IIIrd Tyme Out, Mountain Heart, Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys, Jim and Jesse McReynolds, Jerry Douglas, Valerie Smith, Chubby Wise and many, many more. Additionally Beth and Randy Judy have brought numerous bluegrass artists to the Park as well, including Doc Watson, Bela Fleck, Tony Rice, Jim Lauderdale and many, many others. Peter Rowan will be among those playing at the upcoming Magnolia Fest at the SOSMP Oct. 21-24 produced and hosted by Beth and Randy Judy.

Now, with the advent of the new radio studio, Miller will broadcast the often haunting combined music of the mandolin, fiddle, guitar, bass and banjo on the very ground where the most famous bluegrass, country, jazz, Americana/Roots, rock ‘n roll and other musical greats have entertained and left their musical footprints forever embedded in the hearts and minds of thousands of fans. It’s possible if you listen real carefully, you might just hear Bill Monroe’s “high, lonesome sound” wafting through the big oaks on the banks of the famous Suwannee River during your next visit to the SOSMP.

If you would like to learn more about the SOSMP, the new radio studio or would like to make reservations for a few days to kick back and enjoy life again, just give us a call at 386-364-1683, go to the website at www.musicliveshere.com

or email us at spirit@musicliveshere.com. There’s plenty to do including canoeing, horseback riding, golf cart rental, mini and disc golf, checking out the Arts and Crafts Village, The Store of the Village, listening to live music in the Music Hall and at our many festivals, hiking, bicycle riding and enjoying delicious food from our SOS Café and Restaurant. And while you are here, why not sit a spell on a Sunday afternoon and listen and watch Don Miller broadcast his bluegrass show from the SOSMP! Ya’ll come see us now, you hear!