Los Angeles, June 9, 2010 – On June 3^rd the California Assembly voted 41-12 in favor of a new anti-paparazzi bill (AB 2479) sponsored by Speaker Emeritus Karen Bass that seeks to amend the stalking law to make “surveillance” actionable.

“The paparazzi sit at the end of the driveways of celebrities day and night and then follow them whenever they leave their house. They wait outside preschools for celebrity children to emerge. It is similar to hunting an animal and can be very disturbing and frightening for the celebrities and children affected,” said Sean Burke, Founder of the PAPARAZZI Reform Initiative. “The real beauty of this new legislation is that it will help not only celebrities, but all Californians who are being stalked. Nine states and the District of Columbia already have ‘surveillance’ as actionable in their stalking laws. California was the first state to put forth a stalking law and now we’ve fallen behind. For the safety of everyone in California, it is time we caught up.”

The PAPARAZZI Reform Initiative (www.paparazzi-reform.org) was founded in February, 2009, and is a California non-profit corporation dedicated to improving privacy rights. It is the only organization of its kind in the world directly working to mitigate the dangerous and invasive activities of the aggressive paparazzi.

*Sean Burke - Founder and CEO of the Paparazzi Reform Initiative. Throughout his many years of working as a security professional in Hollywood, Mr. Burke personally witnessed the paparazzi harassment and abuse of his clients and other celebrities. Seeing the dangerousness getting worse, he established the PRI in an effort to educate the public on paparazzi aggression, lobby for stronger privacy laws and effect reform that restores order to our streets and the right to privacy not only for those in the spotlight, but for everyone in our society.　　Mr. Burke has worked closely with former California Speaker of the Assembly, Karen Bass, in support of her anti-paparazzi legislation that became law in January 1, 2010, and continues to help her fight for her current anti-paparazzi legislation that is now in the California Senate. Recognized as the leading voice in opposition to the paparazzi, Mr. Burke has been quoted in various news publications including the Wall Street Journal and Washington Post.

*Patrick Alach – legal counsel for the PRI. Mr. Alach’s widely distributed work “Paparazzi and Privacy” was published by Loyola Law School’s Entertainment Law Review and was one of the key works used to help form the legal framework for the anti-paparazzi legislation that was signed into law by California Governor Schwarzenegger in October of 2009. The amended law and Mr. Alach’s involvement in shaping it were widely documented in the Wall Street Journal, Sacramento Bee and a host of other prominent news and online publications.

The complete list of recipients of the 16th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® follows.


16th ANNUAL SCREEN ACTORS GUILD AWARDS® RECIPIENTS

THEATRICAL MOTION PICTURES

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role
JEFF BRIDGES / Bad Blake - "CRAZY HEART" (Fox Searchlight Pictures)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role
SANDRA BULLOCK / Leigh Anne Tuohy - "THE BLIND SIDE" (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role
CHRISTOPH WALTZ / COL. Hans Landa - "INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS" (The Weinstein Company/Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role
MO’NIQUE / Mary - "PRECIOUS: BASED ON THE NOVEL ‘PUSH’ BY SAPPHIRE" (Lionsgate)

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture
INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS (The Weinstein Company/Universal Pictures)

DANIEL BRÜHL / Fredrick Zoller
AUGUST DIEHL / Major Hellstrom
JULIE DREYFUS / Francesca Mondino
MICHAEL FASSBENDER / LT. Archie Hicox
SYLVESTER GROTH / Joseph Goebbels
JACKY IDO / Marcel
DIANE KRUGER / Bridget von Hammersmark
MÉLANIE LAURENT / Shosanna
DENIS MENOCHET / Perrier LaPadite
MIKE MYERS / General Ed Fenech
BRAD PITT / LT. Aldo Raine
ELI ROTH / SGT. Donny Donowitz
TIL SCHWEIGER / SGT. Hugo Stiglitz
ROD TAYLOR / Winston Churchill
CHRISTOPH WALTZ / COL. Hans Landa
MARTIN WUTTKE / Hitler



PRIMETIME TELEVISION

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
KEVIN BACON / Lt. Col. Michael R. Strobl - "TAKING CHANCE" (HBO)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
DREW BARRYMORE / Little Edie - “GREY GARDENS” (HBO)

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series
MICHAEL C. HALL / Dexter Morgan - “DEXTER” (Showtime)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series
JULIANNA MARGULIES / Alicia Florrick - “THE GOOD WIFE” (CBS)

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series
ALEC BALDWIN / Jack Donaghy - “30 ROCK” (NBC)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series
TINA FEY / Liz Lemon  - “30 ROCK” (NBC)


Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series

MAD MEN (AMC)

ALEXA ALEMANNI / Allison
BRYAN BATT / Salvatore Romano
JARED S. GILMORE / Bobby Draper
MICHAEL GLADIS / Paul Kinsey
JON HAMM / Don Draper
JARED HARRIS / Lane Pryce
CHRISTINA HENDRICKS / Joan Holloway (Harris)
JANUARY JONES / Betty Draper
VINCENT KARTHEISER / Peter Campbell
ROBERT MORSE / Bertram Cooper
ELISABETH MOSS / Peggy Olson
KIERNAN SHIPKA / Sally Draper
JOHN SLATTERY / Roger Sterling
RICH SOMMER / Harry Crane
CHRISTOPHER STANLEY / Henry Francis
AARON STATON / Ken Cosgrove


Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series

GLEE (FOX)

DIANNA AGRON / Quinn Fabray
CHRIS COLFER / Kurt Hummel
PATRICK GALLAGHER / Ken Tanaka
JESSALYN GILSIG / Terri Schuester
JANE LYNCH / Sue Sylvester
JAYMA MAYS / Emma Pillsbury
KEVIN McHALE / Arty Abrams
LEA MICHELE / Rachel Berry
CORY MONTEITH / Finn Hudson
HEATHER MORRIS / Brittany
MATTHEW MORRISON / Will Schuester
AMBER RILEY / Mercedes
NAYA RIVERA / Santana Lopez
MARK SALLING / Puck
HARRY SHUM JR. / Mike Chang
JOSH SUSSMAN / Jacob Ben Israel
DIJON TALTON / Matt Rutherford
IQBAL THEBA / Principal Figgins
JENNA USHKOWITZ / Tina


SAG HONORS FOR STUNT ENSEMBLES


Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture
STAR TREK (Paramount Pictures)
Robert Alonzo
Daniel Arrias
Sala Baker
Steve Blalock
Joey Box
Ben Bray
Mark Chadwick
Ilram Choi
Zack Duhame
Pete Epstein
Jeremy Fitzgerald
Terry Jackson
Craig Jensen
Paul Lacovara
Rob Mars
Mike Massa
Heidi Moneymaker
Mike Mukatis
Courtney Munch
Kimberly Murphy
Chris Palermo
Jim Palmer
Eddie Perez
Dan Plum
Damion Poitier
Susan Purkhiser
Mike Schneider
Dennis Scott
Chris Torres
Webster Winnery, Jr.
Marcus Young


Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series
24 (FOX)

Jeff Cadiente
Brian Hite
Norman Howell
Chris Leps
Dustin Meier
John Meier
Gary Price
Jimmy Sharp, Jr.
Erik Stabenau
Justin Sundquist



Credits for the Stunt Ensembles are not final.  All names are subject to verification.


Screen Actors Guild Awards 46th Annual Life Achievement Award
Betty White
 

The stunt performers and coordinators from “Star Trek” and “24” are recipients of this year’s Screen Actors Guild’s honors for Film and Television Stunt Ensembles, it was announced today from the 16th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® red carpet by Screen Actors Guild Awards Committee Chair JoBeth Williams and Awards Committee member Scott Bakula. The announcement was made on the live SAG Awards® red carpet pre-show webcast on tnt.tv and tbs.com which streams from 3:15 to 4:30 p.m. PT.

Screen Actors Guild Stunt Ensemble Honors commend work within the stunt community during 2009 and recognize stunt performers and coordinators.  Nominees chosen by their respective SAG Awards® film and television nominating committees were announced on Dec. 17, 2009. Ballots to choose the recipients were sent to the nearly 100,000 active members of Screen Actors Guild on Dec. 29. Balloting closed on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010 at noon PT. Results were sealed by the Guild’s official election teller until Williams and Bakula announced them on the SAG Awards red carpet.  The recipients are:


Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture

STAR TREK (Paramount Pictures)
 
Robert Alonzo
Daniel Arrias
Sala Baker
Steve Blalock
Joey Box
Ben Bray
Mark Chadwick
Ilram Choi
Zack Duhame
Pete Epstein
Jeremy Fitzgerald
Terry Jackson
Craig Jensen
Paul Lacovara
Rob Mars
Mike Massa
Heidi Moneymaker
Mike Mukatis
Courtney Munch
Kimberly Murphy
Chris Palermo
Jim Palmer
Eddie Perez
Dan Plum
Damion Poitier
Susan Purkhiser
Mike Schneider
Dennis Scott
Chris Torres
Webster Winnery, Jr.
Marcus Young


Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series

24 (FOX)

Jeff Cadiente
Brian Hite
Norman Howell
Chris Leps
Dustin Meier
John Meier
Gary Price
Jimmy Sharp, Jr.
Erik Stabenau
Justin Sundquist

Christopher Guest, Michael McKean and Harry Shearer: The Legendary Comedy and Musical Trio Behind Spinal Tap and A Mighty Wind are 'UNWIGGED & UNPLUGGED' on HDNet

Don't miss what the Boston Herald calls, 'THE BEST PARODIC ROCK ENTITY ON THE PLANET' - Sunday, January 24 at 8:00 p.m. on HDNet

DALLAS, Jan. 21 Join HDNet this Sunday for a special presentation of "UNWIGGED & UNPLUGGED: An Evening with Christopher Guest, Michael McKean and Harry Shearer." This concert event features the legendary musical and comedic trio performing music from heavy metal's loudest band, Spinal Tap, along with the folk music from "A Mighty Wind," and more.
 

UNWIGGED & UNPLUGGED features two plus hours of songs from the original soundtrack, "This Is Spinal Tap" (1984), the studio album "Break Like The Wind" (1992), and "A Mighty Wind" (2003) along with some special surprises thrown in during a stop on the trio's Spring 2009 tour at the Riverside Theatre in Milwaukee, WI. Fans will be treated to hits such as "Sex Farm," "Hell Hole," "This Bulging River," "A Mighty Wind," and "Heavy Duty."
 

The concert, also released earlier on DVD has received wide critical acclaim. The Chicago Sun Times said, "The classic unplugged format highlighted the strength of their melodies and arrangements and emphasized the brilliantly subtle humor of their lyrics, both of which display a deep knowledge of and devotion to more than half a century of popular music," while The Boston Globe added, "McKean, Guest and Shearer offered two sidesplitting hours dubbed 'UNWIGGED & UNPLUGGED.' The show may not have been loud but, comically, the group definitely took it to the max."
 

UNWIGGED & UNPLUGGED is not about funny costumes and characters, but rather three long time friends and collaborators who make each laugh and love nothing better than to find some excuse to get together and play music.
 

"UNWIGGED & UNPLUGGED: An Evening with Christopher Guest, Michael McKean and Harry Shearer" airs on HDNet, Sunday, January 24 at 8:00 p.m. ET.
 

About HDNet
 

HDNet (www.hd.net) is the independent network with unique and provocative content that appeals to men of all ages and is delivered in true high definition.
 

HDNet is the exclusive, high definition home for popular, original programming, including television's only HD news feature programs "HDNet World Report," and the Emmy Award winning "Dan Rather Reports," featuring legendary journalist Dan Rather. Only HDNet goes beyond the headlines to deliver real news that is redefining the way we look at our world. HDNet News is provocative, sometimes controversial and always relevant - telling the important stories of our time in-depth, with attitude and with independence.
 

HDNet presents championship sports coverage featuring five regular season games from the Premiere Season of the United Football League. HDNet also features the best of Mixed Martial Arts with its Friday night series, "HDNet Fights" (www.hdnetfights.com). "HDNet Fights" works with leading MMA promoters including DREAM, Sengoku, XFC, M-1, K-1, K-1 Max, MFC, Adrenaline and more. HDNet produces more live Mixed Martial Arts events than any other network and HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the hottest Mixed Martial Arts program on television, giving MMA fans their weekly fix for everything MMA.
 

HDNet also delivers the world's largest and most diverse concert line-up through the HDNet Concert Series. The HDNet Concert Series features leading artists and bands including Coldplay, Gwen Stefani, John Mayer and more. HDNet also features revealing lifestyle programming featuring "Art Mann Presents," "New York Confessions," "Deadline" and "Get Out!" HDNet is also the exclusive high definition home to critically acclaimed and award winning documentaries as part of the InFocus series. "NASA on HDNet" presents all live shuttle launches through 2010.
 

Only HDNet Movies (www.hdnetmovies.com) delivers exclusive Sneak Previews of new movies before they hit theaters. The HDNet Movies Sneak Preview series features top Hollywood stars in critically acclaimed performances including Gwyneth Paltrow, Joaquin Phoenix, Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Tom Hanks, Vera Farmiga, Parker Posey, Brian Cox, Matthew Broderick, Brittany Snow, Eric Bana, John Malkovich, Emily Blunt, Robin Williams, Charlize Theron and Kim Basinger.
 

Upcoming Sneak Preview films include "District 13: Ultimatum."
 

In addition to being the exclusive home of Sneak Previews, HDNet Movies viewers enjoy the best films from the classics of the 1950s-1970s, to favorite films from the 1980s and 1990s, to recently released theatrical films.
 

HDNet Movies offers subscribers a premium movie viewing experience in true HD, and more original movies shot entirely in HD than any other network.
 

Launched in 2001 by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available on AT&T, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Mediacom, Verizon FiOS and more than 40 NCTC cable affiliated companies.
 

The HDNet networks can be followed via Facebook at facebook.com/HDNet1, facebook.com/HDNetFights and facebook.com/HDNetMovies and via Twitter at twitter.com/hdnet, twitter.com/hdnetfights and twitter.com/hdnetmovies.
 

The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (“AFTRA”), Directors Guild of America (“DGA”), International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (“IATSE”), and Screen Actors Guild (“SAG”) (collectively the “Guilds and Unions”) support the availability of broadband Internet access to all Americans in order to allow for the lawful flow of content; however, broadband policy will be incomplete as long as it fails to address theft of content via unlawful Internet distribution.  Internet theft threatens grave harm to the output of our nation’s creative industries, and to the artists and craftspeople who make up the membership of the Guilds and Unions.  In this rulemaking, the FCC has an opportunity to greatly improve the odds for combating online theft of our members’ work.  The Commission should ensure that any rules it adopts will strengthen, not weaken, the rights of those who create this American resource.
   
The Guilds and Unions represent over 300,000 workers who create a multitude of diverse films, television programs, and sound recordings that are sought-after by consumers around the world.  Protection of their lawful rights to earn a living from the sale and distribution of that content should be one of the principal goals of this proceeding. 

In the NPRM, the FCC states that it seeks to balance the public interest in a “free and open Internet” with the interests of a free market and spurring innovation among Internet service providers (“ISPs”).  The Guilds and Unions fear that the Commission may be overlooking the heart of what consumers want from a “free and open Internet” – the content.  Stopping the unlawful distribution of content should be one of the goals of the Commission’s broadband policy, and part of the definition of “reasonable network management.”  Any definition of “nondiscrimination” and “reasonable network management” that this Commission seeks to enforce should permit the ISPs to use all available tools in a competitively neutral manner to detect and prevent the illegal downloading of copyrighted works.  Just as reasonable network management practices today are employed to improve the quality of service to end-users (for example, to avoid excessive congestion, and to block viruses), they should be permitted to block other harmful distribution via the Internet – namely, content distributed in violation of copyright, depriving our members of jobs and compensation. 

At the same time, recognizing the pitfalls of media consolidation, we believe that any Internet regulations must also safeguard the protection of consumer interests and the promotion of a competitive atmosphere as this new market continues to develop.

The FCC should facilitate the use of all available tools to combat online theft, while enacting appropriate safeguards to protect consumers.  The FCC rules should encourage ISP notification of end-users who try to access copyright-infringing material.  Following such notification, appropriate steps to block access to that content should be permitted.  As long as these steps are implemented in an impartial manner, end-users should be able to view all lawfully distributed content of their choice. 

A limited degree of transparency is appropriate.  End-users should be informed of their rights, and FCC oversight should ensure that ISPs do not behave in an anti-competitive manner.  But the rules should not require disclosure of specific tools or processes used to screen for stolen material.  Excessive disclosure could undermine efforts to combat online theft.

As the Guilds and Unions representing the working face of our industry – people whose creativity and skills make possible the films, television programs and recorded music that are enjoyed by consumers around the world – we appreciate the Commission’s awareness that our members’ jobs, ability to support their families, and contributions to American culture and economy are at stake.

Paramount Vantage Acquires Worldwide Rights to the New Film By Oscar(R) Winning Documentarian Davis Guggenheim and Participant Media

Project Marks the Second High Profile Collaboration Between Paramount, Guggenheim, and Participant Media

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Jan. 21 -- Worldwide rights for the new documentary from Oscar®-winning director Davis Guggenheim (AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH) and Participant Media have been acquired by Paramount Vantage, it was announced today by Adam Goodman, Paramount Film Group President and by Participant Media's CEO Jim Berk.
 

The documentary will have its world premiere tomorrow, January 22, at the Sundance Film Festival. Paramount Vantage will release the movie in the fall of 2010 in the U.S. with international release dates not yet determined.
 

The studio's specialty division Paramount Classics released Guggenheim's acclaimed AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH in 2006. The influential documentary, financed and executive produced by Participant Media, received two Academy Awards®, and was a worldwide box office hit, grossing more than $24 million in the U.S. and nearly $50 million worldwide.
 

The new film, developed, financed and executive produced by Participant Media, examines the crisis of public education in the United States through multiple interlocking stories - from a handful of students and their families whose futures hang in the balance, to the educators and reformers trying to find real and lasting solutions within a dysfunctional system.
 

The documentary features several leaders in the field of education, including philanthropist Bill Gates of The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation; President and CEO of the Harlem Children's Zone in Harlem, New York Geoffrey Canada; Chancellor of the Washington, D.C. public schools Michelle Rhee; Knowledge is Power Program Founders (KIPP) David Levin and Mike Feinberg; and President and CEO of Manchester Bidwell Corporation Bill Strickland.
 

Six-time Grammy Award-winning recording artist, concert performer and philanthropist John Legend composed the end title song 'Shine'. Legend's own Show Me campaign uses education to break the cycle of poverty through sustainable development at the individual, family, and community levels.
 

Said Paramount's Goodman: "Our commitment to this movie and the issue of education is urgently important to all of us at Paramount. In collaboration with our partners, we hope to bring about a real solution."
 

Said Davis Guggenheim: "With these two great partners, Participant Media and Paramount Pictures, we have a chance to create public awareness around this issue, and this is the only way we can make real change in our children's schools."
 

Said Jim Berk, CEO, Participant Media: "The movie creates an emotional personal connection to an issue which underpins the very future of our country. By reuniting with our good friends at Paramount, we have the chance to build on our ground breaking partnership on An Inconvenient Truth to launch a national conversation from movie theaters, to kitchen tables all across the country."
 

"It's wonderful to have Paramount as partners on this film," says the film's producer, Lesley Chilcott, who was also a producer on An Inconvenient Truth. "It's crucial to have experts like Paramount and Participant that understand the power of a film to create urgency about an important issue. We need to get the message out there. Millions of kids are waiting."
 

The film is directed and produced by Davis Guggenheim. Lesley Chilcott is the producer, with Jeff Skoll and Diane Weyermann serving as executive producers. Written by Davis Guggenheim and Billy Kimball. The cinematographers are Erich Roland and Bob Richman. Greg Finton, Jay Cassidy, and Kim Roberts served as the editors.
 

About Paramount Pictures Corporation
 

Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. The company's labels include Paramount Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, MTV Films and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Digital Entertainment, Paramount Famous Productions, Paramount Home Entertainment, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., Paramount Studio Group, and Worldwide Television Distribution.
 

About Participant Media
 

Participant Media is a Los Angeles-based entertainment company that focuses on socially relevant, commercially viable feature films, documentaries and television, as well as publishing and digital media. Participant Media is headed by CEO Jim Berk and was founded in 2004 by philanthropist Jeff Skoll, who serves as Chairman. Ricky Strauss is President.
 

Participant exists to tell compelling, entertaining stories that bring to the forefront real issues that shape our lives. For each of its projects, Participant creates extensive social action and advocacy programs, which provide ideas and tools to transform the impact of the media experience into individual and community action. Participant films include The Kite Runner, Charlie Wilson's War, Darfur Now, An Inconvenient Truth, Good Night, and Good Luck, Syriana, Standard Operating Procedure, The Visitor, The Soloist, Food, Inc. and The Informant!
 

TNT Aggressively Expands Original Programming Slate by Greenlighting Three New Original Series

Alien Invasion Series Stars Noah Wyle, Produced by DreamWorks Television and Executive-Produced by Steven Spielberg, Justin Falvey, Darryl Frank and Robert Rodat Offbeat Drama DELTA BLUES (working title) Stars Jason Lee and Alfre Woodard, Produced by Smokehouse Pictures and Warner Horizon Television, and Executive-Produced by George Clooney, Grant Heslov and Writer Liz W. Garcia RIZZOLI & ISLES (working title), Based on Tess Gerritsen's Popular Mystery Novels, Stars Angie Harmon and Sasha Alexander, Produced by Warner Horizon Television and Ostar Productions, and Executive-Produced by Writer Janet Tamaro and Bill Haber

ATLANTA, Jan. 21 -- As part of a continuing strategy to expand its slate of original programming, TNT has given the greenlight to three new original series: a bold alien-invasion series from DreamWorks Television and Steven Spielberg that stars Noah Wyle (ER, TNT's The Librarian movies); DELTA BLUES (working title), an offbeat series starring Jason Lee (My Name Is Earl) and Alfre Woodard (Three Rivers) and produced for TNT by George Clooney and Grant Heslov's Smokehouse Pictures and Warner Horizon Television; and RIZZOLI & ISLES (working title), a crime drama starring Angie Harmon (Law & Order, Women's Murder Club) and Sasha Alexander (NCIS), based on Tess Gerritsen's popular mystery novels and produced for TNT by Warner Horizon Television and Ostar Productions.
 

TNT's announcement brings to 10 the total number of original series currently on the TNT slate. "We're very happy with the quality and performance of our original programming, and we're excited to be expanding our horizons with these excellent new shows," said Michael Wright, executive vice president, head of programming for TNT, TBS and Turner Classic Movies (TCM). "These three series - ranging from science-fiction to a quirky drama to a gripping crime procedural - are wide ranging in their appeal and subject matter. They're rich in character, with great performances and engaging stories. And with their emphasis on relatable, everyday heroes, they're a great fit with our lineup."
 

TNT has ordered 10 episodes of each of the three new series, with plans to have DELTA BLUES and RIZZOLI & ISLES premiere in 2010 and the untitled alien-invasion series debut in 2011. TNT's announcement comes on the heels of the network ordering a second season of its acclaimed hit series MEN OF A CERTAIN AGE. Also returning are THE CLOSER, starring Kyra Sedgwick, which will be enjoying its sixth season, and SAVING GRACE, starring Holly Hunter, which will wrap up its third season this year with nine final episodes. HAWTHORNE, starring Jada Pinkett Smith, and DARK BLUE, starring Dylan McDermott, both return for their second seasons. TNT has also ordered a third season of LEVERAGE, starring Timothy Hutton. The network is currently airing SOUTHLAND, with new episodes set to begin in March.
 

  The following are details for each of the three newly greenlit series:

  Untitled Alien-Invasion Series

In this series from DreamWorks Television, Noah Wyle will star as the leader of a rag-tag group of soldiers and civilians struggling against an occupying alien force. The project is being executive-produced by Steven Spielberg, along with DreamWorks Television heads Justin Falvey and Darryl Frank and screenwriter Robert Rodat. Rodat, who earned an Oscar® nomination for his screenplay for Saving Private Ryan, wrote the pilot from an idea he co-conceived with Spielberg. The pilot was directed by Carl Franklin (One False Move, Out of Time).
 

"This series has the potential to be one of the most exciting and provocative shows on television," Wright said. "It grabs your heart and mind from the start and doesn't let go. It combines personal human drama with dynamic action to create the kind of series people will be talking about the morning after. We are especially thrilled to be working once again with Steven Spielberg and DreamWorks Television, as well as Noah Wyle and the extremely talented cast of veterans and newcomers around him."
 

The series opens shortly after aliens have wiped out most of the human population. The aliens are now rounding up the few people left, but they are met with strong resistance from a group of soldiers and civilians who fight for their survival - all while struggling to maintain their humanity.
 

Wyle plays Tom Mason, a former college history professor who becomes the reluctant leader of one of the resistance groups. Also starring in the series are Moon Bloodgood (Terminator Salvation) as Anne Glass, a therapist who works with the surviving children to help them cope with the traumatic situation; Drew Roy (Lincoln Heights) as Hal and Maxim Knight (Brothers & Sisters) as Matt, Tom's two sons; Jessy Schram (Crash) as Karen, who is one of the survivors' motorcycle scouts; and Seychelle Gabriel (Weeds) as Lourdes, an orphaned teenager who helps run the group's commissary.
 

This project marks Wyle's fifth venture with TNT, following three popular Librarian action-adventure movies and the acclaimed movie Pirates of Silicon Valley. TNT previously worked with DreamWorks Television on 2005's award-winning limited series Into the West.
 

DELTA BLUES (working title)
 

DELTA BLUES, an offbeat series starring Jason Lee and Alfre Woodard, comes to TNT from George Clooney and Grant Heslov's Smokehouse Pictures and Warner Horizon Television. The pilot for DELTA BLUES was directed by Emmy® nominee Clark Johnson (The Shield) from a script by Liz W. Garcia (Cold Case) and actor Joshua Harto (The Dark Knight). Clooney, Heslov and Garcia serve as executive producers. Henry Bronchtein (The Sopranos) and Smokehouse's Abby Wolf-Weiss are co-executive producers, and Harto is a producer. In addition, Johnson served as executive-producer on the pilot.
 

"With a collection of unique characters brought to life by a stunning cast, DELTA BLUES is truly a one-of-a-kind series," said Wright. "We're very excited to be working with the outstanding producers at Smokehouse and Warner Horizon as we add DELTA BLUES to TNT's slate."
 

In DELTA BLUES, Lee plays Dwight Hendricks, a Memphis police officer who lives with his mother. His intimate connection with the city and its people sets him apart from his fellow officers. Woodard plays Lt. Tanya Rice, a demanding boss determined to keep Dwight on a short leash. Also starring in DELTA BLUES are Celia Weston (Junebug) as Dwight's mother; Sam Hennings as Charlie White, aka Whitehead, his partner; Robyn Lively (Saving Grace) as Charlene, Dwight's ex-wife; Leonard Earl Howze (Barbershop) as Reginald Greenback, a detective who works with Dwight and Whitehead; Abraham Benrubi (ER), a detective who uses Chickasaw tribal wisdom in his work; and DJ Qualls (My Name Is Earl) as Sutton, Dwight's protege.

 

RIZZOLI & ISLES (working title)
 

RIZZOLI & ISLES, starring Angie Harmon and Sasha Alexander, is based on Tess Gerritsen's popular mystery novels. It comes to TNT from Warner Horizon Television and is being executive-produced by Janet Tamaro and Bill Haber's Ostar Productions (TNT's Nightmares & Dreamscapes: From the Stories of Stephen King, TCM's upcoming Moguls and Movie Stars: A History of Hollywood). Michael M. Robin (TNT's The Closer) directed and executive-produced the pilot, which was written by Tamaro (Bones, Lost) and co-executive-produced by Jeff Hayes.
 

"TNT is home to some of television's most powerful female characters, and RIZZOLI & ISLES certainly fits that identity," said Wright. "We're delighted to be working with Angie, Sasha and the rest of the talented cast of RIZZOLI & ISLES as well as the show's outstanding production team, as we bring Tess Gerritsen's vision to television."
 

In RIZZOLI & ISLES, Harmon plays Jane Rizzoli, a Boston detective who works closely with medical examiner Maura Isles (Alexander) to solve crimes. Lorraine Bracco (The Sopranos) plays a recurring role as Jane's mother. Also starring in the series are Lee Thompson Young (FlashForward), who plays Jane's current partner, Barry Frost; Bruce McGill (Law Abiding Citizen) as Det. Vince Korsak, Jane's seasoned former partner; Jordan Bridges (Dawson's Creek) as Jane's brother, Frankie, a patrol cop who hopes to become a detective; and Billy Burke (The Twilight Saga) as FBI agent Gabriel Dean.
 

TNT, one of cable's top-rated networks, is television's destination for drama and home to such original series as the acclaimed and highly popular detective drama The Closer, starring Kyra Sedgwick; Men of a Certain Age, with Ray Romano, Andre Braugher and Scott Bakula; Saving Grace, starring Holly Hunter; HawthoRNe, with Jada Pinkett Smith; Leverage, starring Timothy Hutton; and Dark Blue, starring Dylan McDermott; as well as the newly acquired Southland, from Emmy®-winning producer John Wells (ER). TNT also presents such powerful dramas as Bones, CSI: NY and Numb3rs; broadcast premiere movies; compelling primetime specials, such as the Screen Actors Guild Awards®; and championship sports coverage, including NASCAR and the NBA. TNT is available in high-definition.
 

Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, creates and programs branded news, entertainment, animation and young adult media environments on television and other platforms for consumers around the world.
 

Source: TNT

A NEW WEBB FOR SPIDER-MAN™
Marc Webb Chosen To Direct Next Chapter of the Acclaimed Series
-Spider-Man to Climb into Theaters in Summer, 2012 -
 

CULVER CITY, Calif., January 19, 2010 – Marc Webb, the director of the Golden Globe nominated Best Picture (500) Days of Summer, will direct the next chapter in the Spider-Man franchise, set to hit theaters summer 2012, it was jointly announced today by Columbia Pictures and Marvel Studios.

Written by James Vanderbilt, Webb will work closely with producers Avi Arad and Laura Ziskin in developing the project, which will begin production later this year.

Commenting on the announcement, Amy Pascal, co-chairman of Sony Pictures Entertainment, and Matt Tolmach, president of Columbia Pictures, said, "At its core, Spider-Man is a small, intimate human story about an everyday teenager that takes place in an epic super-human world. The key for us as we sought a new director was to identify filmmakers who could give sharp focus to Peter Parker's life. We wanted someone who could capture the awe of being in Peter's shoes so the audience could experience his sense of discovery while giving real heart to the emotion, anxiety, and recklessness of that age and coupling all of that with the adrenaline of Spider-Man's adventure. We believe Marc Webb is the perfect choice to bring us on that journey."

Arad and Ziskin added jointly, "Over the years, the Spider-Man comics have been told with bold and creative new writers and artists who have re-calibrated the way audiences see Peter Parker. Marc Webb will do for the new direction of the films what so many visionary storytellers have done with the comic books. He is an incredibly talented filmmaker and we look forward to working closely with him on this new adventure."

Webb said, "This is a dream come true and I couldn't be more aware of the challenge, responsibility, or opportunity. Sam Raimi's virtuoso rendering of Spider-Man is a humbling precedent to follow and build upon. The first three films are beloved for good reason. But I think the Spider-Man mythology transcends not only generations but directors as well. I am signing on not to 'take over' from Sam. That would be impossible. Not to mention arrogant. I'm here because there's an opportunity for ideas, stories, and histories that will add a new dimension, canvas, and creative voice to Spider-Man."

Stan Lee, co-creator of Spider-Man, added, "I'm excited that Sony has chosen a director with a real penchant and understanding for the character. This is a brave, bold direction for the franchise, and I can't wait to see what Marc comes up with next."

Added Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, "The idea of re-imagining the on-screen story for one of the world's most iconic superheros is sure to deliver an exciting new dimension to Spider-Man fans everywhere. There are volumes of comics and material available to inspire fresh and compelling takes on Peter Parker and his journey as Spidey and we look forward to seeing this come alive onscreen."

MARC WEBB has won acclaim with his film debut (500) Days of Summer. He has several MTV VMAs™ including 2009's Best Director award for Green Day's "21 Guns," 2006 Best Rock Video for AFI's "Miss Murder," and Best Group Video for The All-American Rejects' "Move Along." The Music Video Production Association honored him in 2006 as the Director of the Year for his work with Weezer, AAR, and My Chemical Romance.

In addition to two Golden Globe nominations including Best Picture (musical or comedy), his first feature film, (500) Days of Summer, starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel, has been nominated for three Independent Spirit Awards, including Best Feature. Webb was also awarded the Spotlight Award, which honors outstanding directorial debuts, by the National Board of Review

C.L.A.S.S., starring Tom Sizemore (Heat, Saving Private Ryan, Pearl Harbor, Enemy of the State-and currently featured on the VH1 reality show, Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew), is now shooting in Los Angeles. Written and produced by Sheldon Robins, the film follows a brilliant female law student who signs up for criminology class and quickly realizes she has signed on for more than what she bargained for.

C.L.A.S.S. was written by Robins, who also has a co-starring role. The film is directed by Michael Phillip Edwards (Sides, Runt) and also stars Paige La Pierre (Plaguers, The Jinn, Neighborhood Watch), Jamison Haase (24, Miss Ohio, Private Practice), Randy Irwin (Death Calls, LG15: The Resistance, American Heiress), Dante Bosco (This Life, American Dragon: Jake Long, Entourage) and Sam Daly (The Office, The Unit, Grey's Anatomy). Paulo Cascio (The Mile Davis Documentary, Mind of Mencia, The Sarah Silverman Program) is the film's director of photography.  Jerry Constantine (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Watchmen, Van Helsing) serves as Special Effects Supervisor. Shaeda Moghaddam and Robins will executive produce. This is the first of several films Upper Laventille has on its production slate. C.L.A.S.S. is being shot entirely in Los Angeles. For more information, please visit the film's official website, HYPERLINK "http://www.classthemovie.com" www.classthemovie.com.

LA Opera Presents
Two Free Community Performances of

The Festival Play of Daniel
A Medieval Music Drama

James Conlon to Conduct

Saturday, February 27 at 4:00PM and 7:00PM
at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

Tickets Available on Monday, January 25 at 10:00AM

(Los Angeles, CA) January 20, 2010 - Plácido Domingo, LA Opera's Eli and Edythe Broad General Director, announced today that the Company will present two family performances of the medieval music drama The Festival Play of Daniel at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. The performances will be conducted by James Conlon, the Company's Richard Seaver Music Director. The performances will take place on Saturday, February 27 at 4:00pm and 7:00pm and will be offered free of charge as a special gift to the community; advance tickets are required for admission (there will be a $1 handling fee and a four-ticket limit per order). Tickets will be available beginning Monday, January 25 at 10:00am. The Cathedral is located at 555 West Temple Street in Los Angeles.

LA Opera's community performances at the Cathedral were among the first initiatives Mr. Conlon brought to the Company after his 2006 arrival as music director. The Festival Play of Daniel follows the Company's enormous successes with recent productions of Britten's Noah's Flood and Handel's Judas Maccabaeus at the Cathedral, when overflow crowds cheered the charm and spectacle of familiar biblical stories. "I am thrilled that Los Angeles families have responded to our community productions at the Cathedral with so much enthusiasm and appreciation," said Mr. Conlon. "The Festival Play of Daniel gives us another wonderful opportunity to work with singers and musicians of all ages, and I hope that everyone involved will enjoy this great example of LA Opera's outreach to the entire community." The Festival Play of Daniel will continue the tradition of LA Opera artists performing alongside nearly 400 community volunteers in a work that has been described as "nothing less than an earlier operatic masterpiece."

Dating from the early 13th century, The Festival Play of Daniel is a liturgical drama with music, first performed by monastic students at the Cathedral of Beauvais, north of Paris. The original composers and writers are unknown. It recounts the beloved Old Testament story of the courageous prophet Daniel. When mysterious and incomprehensible writing appears on the wall of King Belshazzar's palace, none of the king's advisors can decipher it, except for Daniel. Soon thereafter, as foretold by Daniel, King Darius defeats and kills King Belshazzar. The new king honors the prophet but this causes other counselors to become jealous of the favor shown to Daniel. The counselors trick the new king into proclaiming himself a deity and then condemning Daniel, who will worship none but the one true God. King Darius reluctantly condemns Daniel to be cast into a den of lions. Just as the lions are about to spring on the prophet, an angel appears and protects him from the jaws of the hungry animals.

The cast includes three current members of LA Opera's Domingo-Thornton Young Artist Program: tenor Hak Soo Kim as Daniel, bass-baritone Yohan Yi as King Belshazzar and soprano Danielle Walker as the Queen. Tenor Greg Fedderly will sing the role of Habakkuk, with tenor Robert MacNeil as King Darius and countertenor Caleb Barnes as the Angel. Additional soloists include Daniel Armstrong, Gregorio González, Jonathan McCullough and LeRoy Villanueva. The Festival Play of Daniel will be directed by Eli Villanueva and choreographed by Leslie Stevens, with scenery design by Carolina Angulo and costume design by Paula Higgins. Jacqueline Reid will design the lighting, and Todd Reynolds will be the sound designer.

For The Festival Play of Daniel, director Eli Villanueva has translated the original Latin libretto into English and scored it for student orchestra musicians performing alongside a professional chamber ensemble. LA Opera's production of The Festival Play of Daniel will feature performing forces of several hundred participants, with an orchestra made up of members of the Los Angeles Opera Orchestra as well as the Hamilton High School Academy of Music Orchestra (Vance Miller, orchestra director) and the Colburn School String Orchestra (Margaret Shimizu and Joni-Lynn Steshko, conductors). The performance will also feature both child and adult singers, drawn from the Choir of St. John Eudes Church and School (Richard Medrano, choir director), the Colburn School Children's Choir (Mikhail Shtangrud, choir director), Pueri Cantores San Gabriel Valley Children's Choir (Patrick Flahive, musical director), Central High School #9 Theater Academy (Russell Copley, drama instructor), the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels Choir (Frank Brownstead, choir director), teachers from LA Opera's Opera for Educators program and students from LA Opera's Youth Opera Camp program.

Admission to The Festival Play of Daniel is free of charge, with a handling fee of $1.00 per order. There is a four-ticket limit per household, subject to availability. Tickets are required for entry, and can be reserved online at www.laopera.com or by phone at (213) 972-8001, beginning on Monday, January 25 at 10:00am.

Production made possible by a generous grant
from the Dan Murphy Foundation.

Special support also received from Wells Fargo.

All programs, artists and dates are subject to change.

Rolex is the Official Timepiece of LA Opera
Silversea is the Official Cruise Line of LA Opera
Yamaha is the Official Piano of LA Opera

Neil Patrick Harris Takes on The Penguins of Madagascar in DreamWorks Animation's Hit Comedy's First Nickelodeon Special, 'Dr. Blowhole's Revenge,' Feb. 15 at 8 p.m.

Harris Guest Stars as the Evil "Dr. Blowhole" in Primetime Presidents' Day Special

BURBANK, Calif., Jan. 20 -- Skipper, Kowalski, Rico and Private face off against the malevolent dolphin, Dr. Blowhole, in The Penguins of Madagascar's first Nickelodeon special, "Dr. Blowhole's Revenge," premiering Monday, Feb. 15, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT). Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother) guest stars in the half-hour special as the penguins' long-time nemesis out for revenge and to finally conquer the world. The DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (NASDAQ:DWA) series, which regularly airs Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. (ET/PT), is currently TV's number-two animated show with kids 2-11 and with total viewers on basic cable for the past year, behind only SpongeBob SquarePants. The show also holds the record as Nickelodeon's most-watched series premiere in network history with 6.4 million total viewers.
 

Borders Celebrates Upcoming Percy Jackson Film with Movie Cast Tour Events, Fan Parties, Exclusive Gift with Purchase, Online Content and More

Cast event will take place at Borders in Novi, Mich. at 5 p.m. today

ANN ARBOR, Mich., Jan. 20  Borders is celebrating the Feb. 12 release of Fox's "Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief" with a host of exciting fan offerings that would impress Zeus himself. From movie cast appearances in select Borders locations, including one today in Novi, Mich., and Percy Jackson fan parties in stores nationwide Feb. 6., to a free gift with purchase and exclusive online content, Borders is the destination for all things Percy Jackson.
 

  New Percy Jackson Book and Gift with Purchase

Fans can now purchase in Borders stores nationwide "Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Ultimate Guide," a hardcover, fully illustrated comprehensive guide to gods, monsters and all things Percy Jackson. This novelty companion to the bestselling series comes complete with trading cards, full-color diagrams and maps. With the purchase of this book -- and any Percy Jackson product that totals $9.99 -- fans will receive free, while supplies last, the Borders exclusive sew-on/iron-on "Camp Half-Blood" patch, which features the bold insignia of the demigod camp.
 

Movie Cast Tour Events in Select Stores
 

Borders has teamed with Twentieth Century Fox to host in-store appearances with the four young stars of the upcoming motion picture event "Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief." Today's event, which kicks off at 5 p.m. at the Borders store in Novi (Metro Detroit), will feature cast members Logan Lerman (Percy Jackson), Brandon T. Jackson (Grover), Alexandra Daddario (Annabeth) and Jake Abel (Luke). They will answer fan questions during a dedicated Q&A, after which they will sign "Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief" movie posters, books from the series and Percy Jackson memorabilia.
 

A wristband is required to access the signing line. Fans are permitted to have one item signed and there will be no personalization of items. Borders will host an additional event at the Marietta, Ga. location Feb. 6 at 4 p.m., which will include the aforementioned cast members with the exception of Jake Abel. (An event was previously held at the Borders store in San Francisco Jan. 14.)
 

Percy Jackson In-Store Parties
 

Borders stores nationwide will host in-store Percy Jackson fan parties Feb. 6 beginning at 2 p.m. giving attendees the opportunity to come together to celebrate their favorite demigod. During the parties, fans will enjoy a spirited debate on topics surrounding the book, the upcoming film, movie cast and more. Party attendees will also enjoy an adrenaline-pumping trivia challenge, as well as "Olympian" games that could include a toga wrap race, arm wrestling, discus and javelin throwing. Activities will vary by store. Visit the Store Locater tab on Borders.com to find a participating location.
 

Online Content
 

Percy Jackson fans can enjoy exclusive online content including interviews with author Rick Riordan and Alexandra Daddario, who plays Annabeth in the film, all at http://www.bordersmedia.com/backlot/percyjackson.asp. More content will be added to the page including additional cast interviews Borders secures at today's cast appearance event.
 

About "Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief"
 

"Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief," based on the first book in Rick Riordan's bestselling Percy Jackson series, finds trouble-prone teen Percy Jackson having problems at high school -- but that's the least of his challenges. It's the 21st century, but the gods of Mount Olympus seem to have walked out of the pages of Percy's Greek mythology texts and into his life -- and they're not happy. Zeus' lightning bolt has been stolen, and Percy is the prime suspect. Now, Percy and his friends must embark on a cross-country adventure to catch the true thief, save Percy's family and unravel a mystery more powerful than the gods themselves. The film opens in theaters everywhere Feb. 12.
 

About Fox Film Entertainment
 

One of the world's largest producers and distributors of motion pictures, Fox Filmed Entertainment produces, acquires and distributes motion pictures throughout the world. These motion pictures are produced or acquired by the following units of FFE: Twentieth Century Fox, Fox 2000 Pictures, Fox Searchlight Pictures, Fox International, and Twentieth Century Fox Animation.
 

About Borders Group, Inc.
 

Headquartered in Ann Arbor, Mich., Borders Group, Inc. (NYSE:BGP) is a leading specialty retailer of books as well as other educational and entertainment items. The company employs approximately 25,000 throughout the U.S., primarily in its Borders® and Waldenbooks® stores. Online shopping is offered through borders.com. Find author interviews and vibrant discussions of the products we and our customers are passionate about online at facebook.com/borders, twitter.com/borders and youtube.com/bordersmedia.
 

Roddenberry Productions in Development with Imagine Entertainment on Classic Gene Roddenberry Pilot 'The Questor Tapes'

Roddenberry Believed Questor could have been Bigger than Star Trek

LOS ANGELES, -- CEO of Roddenberry Productions Rod Roddenberry announced today that Roddenberry Productions has entered into a deal with Brian Grazer and Ron Howard's Imagine Television to develop the Gene Roddenberry pilot "The Questor Tapes." The announcement was made at the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame induction ceremony where Rod Roddenberry accepted the posthumous honor, presented by Seth MacFarlane, on his father's behalf.
 

"The Questor Tapes" was originally conceived as a television series pilot about an android with incomplete memory tapes who searches for his creator and his purpose. The pilot ultimately aired as a 1974 television movie.
 

"My father always felt that Questor was the one that got away," said Rod Roddenberry. "He believed that the show had the potential to be bigger than Star Trek."
 

Rod Roddenberry will develop the project along with Roddenberry Productions COO Trevor Roth and Imagine Television's President David Nevins and EVP of Development Robin Gurney. The team is currently in negotiations with writer, producer and show runner Tim Minear (Lois & Clark, The X-Files, Angel, Dollhouse) to produce.
 

More information regarding Questor, including a photo of Gene and Majel Roddenberry on the original set as well as an excerpt from Gene's initial description of the Questor character, can be found at www.roddenberry.com. For upcoming news, follow Roddenberry Productions on Twitter at http://twitter.com/RoddenberryProd and friend "Roddenberry Prod" on Facebook.
 

About Roddenberry Productions
 

Roddenberry Productions is a science-fiction leader with a tradition of groundbreaking entertainment and quality merchandise. Originally founded in 1967 by Gene Roddenberry, the company has since led a steady stable of science fiction successes including Gene Roddenberry's Earth: Final Conflict, Gene Roddenberry's Andromeda and, most notably, the Star Trek brand. Roddenberry Productions continues to produce entertainment for all audiences, employing a viewer-centric creative process and resulting in insightful visions of humanity. Its merchandising business is based on quality and authenticity providing memorabilia for fans in today's new multimedia generation. Roddenberry Productions has set itself apart by creating content that surpasses mere entertainment; it acknowledges the intelligence of audiences by challenging them to think, question and explore the world, and those potentially beyond. Recent Roddenberry comic book series Days Missing will be released as a graphic novel in February 2010.
 

About Imagine Entertainment
 

Imagine Television was founded by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard and is run by Imagine Television President, David Nevins. The company's television programs have been honored with more than 50 prestigious awards including 36 Emmy® awards.
 

Current programming includes Fox's hit Golden Globe and Emmy® award winning Best Drama Series 24; NBC's Peabody Award winning series Friday Night Lights; Fox's Lie To Me; and NBC's new drama Parenthood which premieres March 2010.
 

Other television programs include Fox's Emmy® award winning Best Comedy Arrested Development; CBS's Shark; NBC's Miss Match; WB's Felicity; ABC's SportsNight; and HBO's From the Earth to the Moon, which won the Emmy® for Outstanding Mini-Series.
 

Source: Roddenberry Productions

Turner Classic Movies to Welcome Mel Brooks to TCM Classic Film Festival in April, Including Presentation of Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

ATLANTA, Jan. 20 -- Legendary funnyman Mel Brooks is set to be a featured guest at the TCM Classic Film Festival in April. As part of the festivities, TCM will partner with the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce as they honor Brooks with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame*, which marks its 50th anniversary this year. Brooks will also introduce a festival screening of his first feature film, The Producers (1968), which earned Brooks an Oscar® for Best Original Screenplay.
 

"Mel Brooks is one of the funniest men in the world today, and he has made life much happier for all of us, thanks to The Producers, Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein and so many of his other movie comedies," said Robert Osborne, who will be on-hand at the festival as its host. "We're very pleased he's going to join us at the TCM Classic Film Festival and look forward to toasting him in celebration of his well-deserved star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame."
 

Director, producer, writer and actor, Mel Brooks 2001 smash hit Broadway musical The Producers--winner of a record-breaking 12 Tony Awards®. Three of those (Best Score, Best Book of a Musical, Best Musical), along with two Grammy Awards® (Best Musical Show Album and Best Long-Form Music Video), went to Brooks himself. He recently followed it up with the successful Broadway production of Young Frankenstein, which won the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.
 

Brooks began his distinguished career during television's Golden Age as a writer for Sid Caesar on Your Show of Shows in 1951. In 1955, 1956 and 1957, he received Emmy® nominations (with others) for Best Comedy Writing for Caesar's Hour. In 1952, Brooks wrote sketches for Leonard Sillman's Broadway smash-hit revue New Faces of 1952, and in 1957, together with Joe Darion, he wrote the book for the Broadway musical Shinbone Alley, which starred Eartha Kitt. In 1962, he wrote the book for the Broadway musical All American, starring Ray Bolger.
 

In the '60s, Brooks teamed up with Carl Reiner to write and perform The 2000 Year Old Man albums, which became immediate bestsellers. In 1960 and 1961, Brooks and Reiner received Grammy nominations for Best Spoken-Word Comedy for 2000 Years and for Best Comedy Performance for 2000 and One Years, respectively. In 1997, Brooks and Reiner teamed up again for The 2000 Year Old Man in the Year 2000. Both a book and CD were released, the CD winning a Grammy in 1998 for the Best Spoken-Word Album, Comedy.
 

Brooks wrote and narrated The Critic, a short satire on avant-garde art films, which received the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Subject in 1964. In 1965, he teamed up with Buck Henry to create Get Smart, the long-running television show starring Don Adams. Brooks, along with others, received an Emmy for Outstanding Writing Achievement in Comedy-Variety in 1967 for The Sid Caesar, Imogene Coca, Carl Reiner, Howard Morris Special. In 1968, he wrote and directed his first feature film, The Producers, starring Zero Mostel and Gene Wilder, which earned him an Academy Award® for Best Original Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen. He then went on to create a remarkable string of hit comedies: 1970, wrote, directed and acted in The Twelve Chairs; 1974, co-wrote, directed and acted in Blazing Saddles and was nominated, along with John Morris, for Best Title Song, "Blazing Saddles"; 1974, co-wrote and directed Young Frankenstein; 1976, co-wrote, directed and starred in Silent Movie; 1977, co-wrote, directed, produced and starred in High Anxiety; 1981, wrote, directed, produced and starred in History of the World, Part I; 1983, produced and starred in To Be or Not to Be; 1987, co-wrote, directed, produced and starred in the hit sci-fi spoof, Spaceballs; 1991, co-wrote, directed, produced and starred in Life Stinks; 1993, co-wrote, directed, produced and starred in Robin Hood: Men in Tights; 1995, co-wrote, directed, produced and starred in Dracula: Dead and Loving It; and 2005, co-wrote and produced The Producers, the film version of his Tony-winning 2001 Broadway musical and was nominated for a Grammy for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, "There's Nothing Like a Show on Broadway."
 

For three successive seasons, Brooks won Emmys for his role as Uncle Phil on the hit comedy show Mad About You. His visionary film company, Brooksfilms Limited, founded in 1980, has produced some of America's most distinguished films, among them David Lynch's The Elephant Man, David Cronenberg's The Fly, Graeme Clifford's Frances, Richard Benjamin's My Favorite Year and David Jones' 84 Charing Cross Road, starring Anthony Hopkins and Anne Bancroft.
 

Last year, commemorating his lifelong contributions to American culture, Brooks was named among the most recent recipients of the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors.
 

About the TCM Classic Film Festival
 

The TCM Classic Film Festival, which is set to take place in Hollywood April 22-25, 2010, will be a landmark celebration of the history of Hollywood and its movies, presented in a way that only TCM can, with major events, celebrity appearances, panel discussions and more. The four-day festival will also provide movie fans a rare opportunity to experience some of cinema's greatest works as they were meant to be seen - on the big screen. TCM will announce additional special events, guests and programming in the weeks and months ahead. The central hub for the festival will be Club TCM, located inside the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. The Roosevelt, which served as the site of the first Academy Awards® ceremony, will be the official hotel for the festival. Only passholders will be allowed entry into Club TCM, which will include a festival lounge, panel discussions, social events, a boutique and poolside screenings. Event locations include Grauman's Chinese Theatre and the Egyptian Theatre.
 

Turner Classic Movies is a Peabody Award-winning network that presents great films, uncut and commercial-free, from the largest film libraries in the world. Currently seen in more than 80 million homes, TCM features the insights of veteran primetime host Robert Osborne and weekend daytime host Ben Mankiewicz, plus interviews with a wide range of special guests. As the foremost authority in classic films, TCM offers critically acclaimed original documentaries and specials, along with regular programming events that include The Essentials, 31 Days of Oscar and Summer Under the Stars. TCM also stages special events and screenings, such as the upcoming TCM Classic Film Festival in Hollywood; produces a wide range of media about classic film, including books and DVDs; and hosts a wealth of materials at its Web site, www.tcm.com. TCM is part of Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company.
 

Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, creates and programs branded news, entertainment, animation and young adult media environments on television and other platforms for consumers around the world.
 

Former President Bill Clinton and Former President George W. Bush Launch Television PSA to Support Victims of Earthquake in Haiti

PSA Encourages all Americans to donate to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund

NEW YORK and WASHINGTON, Jan. 19 /- In the aftermath of the earthquake in Haiti, President Obama asked former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush to help raise funds for the immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts in Haiti. In a television PSA released by the Ad Council today, the two Presidents encourage all Americans to donate to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund (CBHF), which will help those who are most in need of food, water, shelter, medical care and support.
 

The TV spot directs viewers to visit www.ClintonBushHaitiFund.org where they can donate to CBHF through a secure online donation page. Americans can also donate by text messaging the word "QUAKE" to 20222, which will charge $10 to their cell phone bill. The PSA is available in :30 format and was filmed in the Roosevelt Room in the White House on Saturday, January 16.
 

"I still believe that Haiti can move beyond its troubled history and this lethal earthquake to emerge a stronger, more secure nation," President Bill Clinton said. "But we can't do it with government support alone: ordinary citizens must fill in the gaps. Little donations make a big difference."
 

"American citizens and businesses have a tradition of responding to natural disasters with extraordinary generosity," President George W. Bush said. "President Clinton and I are working to tap that spirit of giving to help our neighbors in need in Haiti. I thank the Ad Council for distributing this PSA so that we can get the word out about how to help."
 

CBHF is designed to identify and fulfill unmet needs, foster economic opportunity, improve the quality of life of those affected over the long term and assist the people of Haiti as they rebuild their lives and country. Presidents Clinton and Bush oversee the Fund through their respective non-profit organizations, the William J. Clinton Foundation and Communities Foundation of Texas. One hundred percent of the donations made to the Clinton Foundation and the Communities Foundation of Texas will go directly to relief efforts.
 

"We are proud to join with former Presidents Clinton and Bush to raise awareness of their critical relief efforts, which will help the people in Haiti rebuild their lives," according to Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "We are confident that just as when we partnered with the former Presidents after the Tsunami and Katrina tragedies, the American media will generously support this PSA and it will motivate Americans throughout the country to donate to the relief effort."
 

The Ad Council is distributing the PSA to television stations nationwide. Per the Ad Council's model, the PSA will air in advertising time that is donated by the media.
 

Immediately following last week's earthquake, the Ad Council joined with the American Red Cross and First Lady Michelle Obama to launch television and radio PSAs featuring Mrs. Obama in support of the Red Cross's relief efforts. Additionally, the Ad Council helped produce and distribute PSAs in partnership with Former Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton following the Tsunami in Southeast Asia in 2004 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
 

The following companies have donated production and digital distribution services for the new PSA: GSD&M Idea City, Magno Sound & Video, DG-FastChannel Network and The AdSpot. Furthermore, the National Captioning Institute has donated their closed captioning services.
 

Additionally, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and the National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA) have offered their support by engaging their members and helping with PSA distribution.
 

For more information about CBHF, visit www.ClintonBushHaitiFund.org, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/clintonbushhaitifund or follow the Fund on Twitter at http://twitter.com/cbhaitifund.
 

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer efforts from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public.
 

2010 NAMM Show Closing Release: Music Products Industry Gathers for a Comeback

New Decade Brings Hope for Manufacturers and Retailers of Music Products as NAMM Show Attendance Increases Following the Worst Economic Year in Recent Memory

CARLSBAD, Calif., Jan. 19 -- The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) today announced the final registration and exhibitor numbers for the 2010 NAMM Show, the longest-running trade show in the United States. At show close, NAMM reported 87,569 registrants, a 2 percent increase from last year. International registration experienced a 2 percent decrease from last year.
 

Even in economically challenging times, the association reported 1,373 exhibitors at this year's show, including nearly 250 new exhibitors--a new record number in the event's 108-year history, showing a surge in market enthusiasm.
 

The annual trade show is the place where music products retailers meet face-to-face with manufacturers to make their biggest purchases or gain product knowledge for their stores in the year ahead.
 

"This year's NAMM Show marks a critical turning point for the international music products industry," said NAMM President and CEO Joe Lamond. "A strong NAMM Show signals the beginning of a comeback with buyers returning to their hometowns with renewed energy, passion and hope for a strong 2010, and exhibitors enjoying strong floor traffic and sales as they introduced hundreds of new and innovative products to the market."
 

The high-energy event featured Quincy Jones and Yoko Ono, who spoke on behalf of the importance of music education for children. Ono also celebrated the 70th anniversary of John Lennon's birth at a press conference held on the Thursday.
 

Other events included highly attended mentoring sessions for music products retailers; performances by Jason Mraz and Ted Nugent; and celebrity appearances by Julianne Hough of Dancing with the Stars, Slash of Guns and Roses, Eddie Van Halen, Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stevie Wonder, Orianthi and Gene Simmons of KISS and hundreds of touring artists and band members. Yamaha Corporation of America celebrated its 50th anniversary in the United States with a star-filled dealer concert featuring Vince Gill, Michael McDonald, Natalie Cole, John Ondrasik, Jon McLaughlin and Jason Mraz.
 

Themed "Get Ready," the trade show offered attendees the opportunity to reunite with industry peers, learn the latest business and marketing tactics and trends at daily NAMM University sessions, and ultimately make their biggest business deals for the year ahead.
 

Exhibiting product manufacturers had good feedback about their business at the show.
 

"We are extremely pleased with our retailers' response to this year's show in general, and our product offering in particular," said Paul Jernigan, vice president of global channel marketing at Fender Musical Instruments Corp. "The overall feeling we have received from our customers and business partners is overwhelmingly positive. Additionally, we are impressed, as always, with the entire NAMM organization. This has to rank as one of the best shows we've attended, and we're proud to be a part of it."
 

"Our booth was packed from day one, and our dealers had a level of energy and enthusiasm here at the NAMM show that I found very exciting, said Rick Young, senior vice president of Yamaha Corporation of America. "Given what we've all experienced this past year, Yamaha is very grateful for the warm reception we received for our new products, programs and services. Now this very positive feeling has to be transferred to the sales floor."
 

"The show has been great. We have been packed like crazy since the show opened or even actually a little beforehand," said Kristina Hodgson of Shure Inc. in Niles, Ill. "Lots of great questions, lots of people being interested in our product, trying things out. It's been a great show. We have a lot of old friends stopping by and filling out orders, so it's been a really great sales show for us, and then a lot of new connections as well, so hopefully towards the future we'll get some more good business. We've got a lot of artist signings and they've been amazingly popular. Very good show for us and definitely NAMM is busier than many of us remember in lots of years."
 

"Roland was very pleased with the results of the NAMM Show," said Dennis Houilhan, president of Roland Corp. US. "There was a definite positive attitude from retailers and a genuine optimism for a better 2010 ahead. The response to all our new products and technologies was strong. NAMM's theme was "Get Ready!" Dealers were ready to buy and get 2010 off to a strong start."
 

"The show's been going good," said Jason Lee of Everly Music in North Hollywood, Calif.
 

"We have a lot of meetings with everybody. This show seems to be a lot more exciting than last year. I think it's on the up-and-up with the economy, and we have a lot of new products out so it's going good. It's where we're going to introduce a lot of the new strings, a lot of the new designs. We go to a lot of meetings at night, but we were out at a show last night, it was fun to see old friends."
 

"It's going fantastic," said Don Harrington of Rhythm Ring in San Diego, Calif. "We've got great feedback, great response, made some good relationships. It's our first year here, so we're doing pretty well. We did a little social media marketing to pump it up a little bit, but it's just first-time attendees and we're doing really great."
 

"It's going very well," said Andrew Naumann of Schilke Music Products in Melrose Park, Ill. "I think this year's very positive. It's fantastic for us. Everyone seemed very upbeat and that was nice to see."
 

Retailers at the NAMM Show were also quite enthusiastic about what they were seeing.
 

"Business has been very good," said Brian Marsh with idjnow, a pro audio, lighting and video company. "It's been a very progressive show so far. A lot of manufacturers are coming out with a lot of innovative new products. For us Numark happens to be one of the ones that is standing out."
 

Dow Ferguson, owner of a brand new online music store thelutherie.net, said the last time he came to the NAMM Show was in 1973 when it was in San Francisco. Now he is looking for companies who will ship product directly to his new online customers.
 

"I wanted to tie down some string companies that will drop ship them to save costs and make it easier for me and for the customer," Ferguson said.
 

"My business has been good so far at the show," said Kevin Kuptz of Ingnited Light and Sound. "We've been able to pick up a couple of new lines of pro audio equipment and we've had more business and less extra people around."
 

The next NAMM trade is Summer NAMM, which will be held June 18-20, 2010 in Nashville, TN. for more information, visit namm.org.
 

About NAMM
 

The National Association of Music Merchants, commonly called NAMM in reference to the organization's popular NAMM trade shows, is the not-for-profit association that unifies, leads and strengthens the $17 billion global musical instruments and products industry. NAMM's activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages. NAMM is comprised of more than 9,000 Member companies

Barenaked Ladies Co-Headlines with O.A.R. & Joins Robert Randolph & The Family Band for SUPER BOWL SATURDAY NIGHT, Super Bowl Eve's Free Outdoor Concert & Fireworks Show at Ft. Lauderdale Beach Park

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., Jan. 19  The National Football League announced today that acclaimed multi-platinum pop-rock group Barenaked Ladies will co-headline with O.A.R. and join Grammy nominated phenom Robert Randolph & The Family Band on the bill of SUPER BOWL SATURDAY NIGHT, a free outdoor concert and fireworks spectacular on Ft. Lauderdale Beach Park, Saturday, Feb. 6, the night before Super Bowl XLIV.
 

Free and open to the public, SUPER BOWL SATURDAY NIGHT is a unique entertainment event celebrating an exciting year of football and the arrival of Super Bowl XLIV in South Florida. In addition to live performances by O.A.R., the Barenaked Ladies and Robert Randolph & The Family Band, the event will feature a Super Bowl Fireworks Spectacular to conclude the evening. It will take place at Ft. Lauderdale Beach Park, adjacent to the Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel on A1A (Seabreeze Blvd.), just north of Holiday Drive.
 

Festivities will begin at 4 p.m. with a DJ set and video programming, followed by live music beginning at 6 p.m. and concluding with the Super Bowl Fireworks Spectacular at 9:40 p.m.
 

Gates open at 4 p.m. No tickets are required.
 

Enjoy low, flat rate parking in downtown Fort Lauderdale with free shuttle services to the beach. For all transportation options, go to www.NFL.com/superbowl.
 

Over the course of the past twenty-one years, the Barenaked Ladies have racked up eight Juno Awards and multiple Grammy nominations, sold more than 14 million albums worldwide, written a plethora of hit singles (including "One Week," "Pinch Me" and "If I Had $1000000") and amassed an international fanbase whose members number in the millions. The band also wrote and recorded the theme song to the hit CBS television series, "The Big Bang Theory." The quartet is currently gearing up for the March 30th release of highly anticipated new album, ALL IN GOOD TIME, which features the new hit, "You Run Away."
 

Robert Randolph & The Family Band was formed by frontman and pedal steel guitar virtuoso Robert Randolph, who's listed among the "Top-100 Guitarists of All-Time " in "Rolling Stone." Randolph and his band have toured with the likes of Eric Clapton, who even made a guest appearance on their most recent album, "Colorblind." Their new release, coming later this year is produced by acclaimed producer, T. Bone Burnett.
 

For more information on Barenaked Ladies, please visit www.barenakedladies.com and for more information on Robert Randolph & The Family Band, please visit www.robertrandolph.net.
 

Sony Music Entertainment and Simon Cowell Launch New Global Venture: 'Syco'

LONDON and NEW YORK, January 19-- Simon Cowell and Sony Music Entertainment today announced the creation of a new long-term global venture to focus on the production and exploitation of music, television, film and digital content.
 

The new venture will own all of the existing Syco television and music assets, which include the global TV franchises "The X Factor" and "Got Talent", as well as superstar artists such as Leona Lewis, Susan Boyle and Il Divo. The new venture, which will continue to use the "Syco" name, will be co-owned by Sony Music and a Simon Cowell-owned company. Syco will be based in London and will also have offices in Los Angeles.
 

As the first project under the new Syco banner, Fox Television announced (on January 11th) that it will launch the U.S. version of the worldwide hit TV show, "The X Factor", in the fall of 2011. Cowell will serve as both executive producer and judge on the U.S. version of the show.
 

"The X Factor" is a Syco-owned television format, which currently airs in 17 countries and has been the #1 UK entertainment show for the last three years, reaching record UK audiences in 2009 of 20 million with 60% audience share. "The X Factor" is the No.1 music- entertainment format in Europe.
 

In addition to "The X Factor", Syco is also the owner of the "Got Talent" TV format which currently airs in 27 countries and is the UK's most successful TV format export. In 2009, "Britain's Got Talent" launched the global music career of Susan Boyle, whose debut album, "I Dreamed A Dream", sold over 8 million albums in six weeks, making it the world's biggest selling album of 2009 and the fastest selling album in history.
 

Syco is also the record label home for such diverse international recording stars as Leona Lewis and Il Divo. Cowell has worked with artists selling more than 180 million albums and delivered more than 150 No.1 records. In 2009, Cowell was named No. 1 in Hollywood Reporter's Top 50 Most Powerful in Reality TV and one of Entertainment Weekly's Top Entertainers of the Year.
 

"I have had a fantastic relationship with Sony for many years and I'm delighted we are launching this venture together," Cowell said.
 

"Over the past 20 years, Simon Cowell has been a great partner and is an integral part of the Sony Music global family. We are extremely excited to be able to continue and further develop our relationship with Simon, and significantly grow the Syco venture," said Rolf Schmidt-Holtz, CEO, Sony Music Entertainment.
 

"Simon Cowell is one of the most prominent and successful creative music and television executives in the entertainment business today. This new venture will allow Sony Music and all Sony divisions to develop and pursue a host of new opportunities with this supremely talented individual," said Sir Howard Stringer, Chairman, CEO and President, Sony Corporation.
 

"I am absolutely delighted that we have been able to extend our long and mutually beneficial partnership with Simon. He is an inspiring and stimulating business partner and working with him closely over the last 10 years has been an absolute pleasure. With the launch of "The X Factor" in the US, we look forward to replicating the unprecedented success the show has had in the UK globally," said Ged Doherty, Chairman and CEO, Sony Music Entertainment UK.
 

    
    NOTES TO EDITORS:

    - "Syco" with offices in London and Los Angeles, is a global music,
      television, film and digital production and exploitation joint venture
      between Simon Cowell and Sony Music Entertainment.

    - Prior to the creation of the new Syco venture, Syco was the name used
      for Cowell's music and television activities within Sony Music 
      Entertainment UK. Syco currently employs a staff of 28.

    - Sir Philip Green will be an advisor to Simon Cowell and a shareholder
      in the company, majority owned and controlled by Cowell, which will 
      serve as the partner with Sony Music in the new Syco.

    - Syco Television, produces the BAFTA Award-winning "The X Factor" which
      airs in 17 countries and has topped the charts in Europe and in the 
      U.K, where Cowell continues to serve as both executive producer and 
      judge. "The X Factor" 2009 reached UK audiences of 20 million (60% 
      audience share), and in Denmark, the audience share reached a record 
      high of 80%.

    - Syco Television is also the owner of the "Got Talent" television format
      which airs in 27 countries worldwide.

    - Cowell also executive produces "America's Got Talent" and judges and
      produces "Britain's Got Talent.

    - In late 2009, Syco Music's Susan Boyle became the biggest selling
      artist in the world, when her debut album "I Dreamed a Dream" sold 
      over 8 Million albums in just 6 weeks, making it the fastest selling 
      album in history. To date it has reached No.1 in the album charts in 
      21 countries.

    - Cowell has worked with artists selling more than 180 million albums and
      more than 150 No.1 records.

    - In 2009, Cowell was named No. 1 in Hollywood Reporter's Top 50 Most
      Powerful in Reality TV and one of Entertainment Weekly's Top 
      Entertainers of the Year.

Sony Music Entertainment
 

Sony Music Entertainment is a global recorded music company with a roster of current artists that includes a broad array of both local artists and international superstars. The company boasts a vast catalog that comprises some of the most important recordings in history. It is home to premier record labels representing music from every genre, including American Recordings, Arista Nashville, Arista Records, Aware, Battery Records, Beach Street Records, Black Seal, BNA Records, Cinematic, Columbia Nashville, Columbia Records, Epic Records, Essential Records, Flicker Records, Fo-Yo Soul, GospoCentric, Hitz Committee Entertainment, J Records, Jive Records, LaFace Records, Legacy Recordings, Masterworks, Polo Grounds, RCA Records, RCA Nashville, RCA Red Seal, RCA Victor, Reunion Records, Slightly Dangerous, Sony Classical, Sony Music Latin, Star Time International, Verity Records, and Volcano Entertainment. Sony Music Entertainment is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America.
 

NAMM Announces Fourth Annual Wanna Play? Award Recipients

ANAHEIM, Calif., Jan. 18  NAMM, the trade association of the international music products industry, presented Wanna Play? awards yesterday to seven companies that use music products in their television ads, helping to inspire people to make music.
 

  The recipients of the 2009 Wanna Play? Awards are:
  --  California Milk Processor Board for its Battle for Milkquarious ad
      campaign
  --  Kaiser Permanente for its Kabuki/Thrive TV ad
  --  Blackberry for its Rock Band/Love What You Do TV ad
  --  Pantene for its Violin/Chrysalis TV ad
  --  General Electric for its Duet/Imagination at Work TV ad
  --  Herbal Essences Totally Twisted for its Rocker/Twisted TV ad

The Wanna Play? Awards are an extension of NAMM's Wanna Play? campaign, a public awareness initiative designed to inspire people of all ages to become active music makers, from taking lessons to purchasing their first instrument or software. NAMM recognizes major companies that have encouraged people to pursue--or perhaps revisit--their passion for playing an instrument through their promotion of products or initiatives.
 

The Battle for Milkquarious advertisement, for example, features a rock star character playing a tricked-out electric guitar while promoting the perks of drinking milk.
 

Pantene's ad features a deaf girl who finds inspiration in life by learning how to play the violin.
 

"Promoting music making is easier when we get help from so many great companies outside of our industry who inspire people to play through their advertisements," said Scott Robertson, director of marketing and communications at NAMM. "NAMM is happy to honor this year's Wanna Play? Award recipients."
 

About NAMM The National Association of Music Merchants, commonly called NAMM in reference to the organization's popular NAMM trade shows, is the not-for-profit association that unifies, leads and strengthens the $17 billion global musical instruments and products industry. NAMM's activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages. NAMM is comprised of more than 9,000 Member companies.

Hollywood A-Listers Go Platinum at the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards

Platinum Jewelry Remains Top Choice for the Red Carpet

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 18 -- Platinum makes diamonds sparkle brighter on the red carpet, so it's no wonder why our favorite stars opted to wear platinum jewelry to the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards. Style expert Michael O'Connor notes that "Celebrities are choosing one area to highlight, whether that's a large statement necklace in platinum, big earrings or stackable cuff bracelets." O'Connor adds that "Colored gemstones are making a big appearance on the red carpet. We're seeing more in the cooler palettes, such as blues and greens." Since platinum is a naturally-white metal, it will maximize the brilliance of colored stones too.
 

Following is a list of platinum baubles that celebrities wore on the red carpet and at parties:
 

  --  Toni Collette: Platinum and diamond drop earrings, bracelets and rings
      by Neil Lane.
  --  Emily Blunt: Blackened platinum and colored diamond bracelets and
      earrings (30 carats) by Lorraine Schwartz. Platinum and diamond ring
      by Neil Lane.
  --  January Jones: Platinum and diamond bracelets by Neil Lane.
  --  Zoe Saldana: Platinum rings and bracelet with ruby and diamonds by
      Neil Lane. Platinum and ruby earrings by Lorraine Schwartz.
  --  Drew Barrymore: Platinum and diamond stud earrings (24 carats), and a
      platinum and moonstone ring (80 carats) by Lorraine Schwartz.
  --  Olivia Wilde: Platinum bangle and earrings with diamonds and black
      onyx by Tiffany & Co.
  --  Penelope Cruz: Platinum and diamond earrings (20 carats), platinum and
      diamond bracelet (42 carats), and a platinum and pink diamond ring (7
      carats) by Chopard.
  --  Nicole Kidman: Platinum bracelets with diamonds and emeralds by Fred
      Leighton.
  --  Halle Berry: Platinum and diamond bracelet by Kimberly McDonald.
  --  Jennifer Garner: Platinum and diamond bracelet by Bvlgari.
  --  Lisa Edelstein: Blackened platinum earrings with blue sapphire and
      diamonds, platinum bracelet, flower brooch and two rings by Lorraine
      Schwartz.
  --  Ginnifer Goodwin: Platinum and diamond cuff, ring and earrings by Neil
      Lane.
  --  Kate Winslet: Platinum and diamond earrings and bracelets by Tiffany &
      Co.
  --  Tina Fey: Platinum and diamond earclips, bracelet, ring and bands by
      Fred Leighton.
  --  Jennifer Carpenter: Platinum and diamond earrings, rings and bracelets
      by Neil Lane.
  --  Julianne Moore: Platinum and diamond ring by Bvlgari.
  --  Kate Walsh: Platinum and diamond earrings, bracelet and ring by Neil
      Lane.
  --  Rose Byrne: Platinum and diamond hair clips and brooch by Neil Lane.
  --  Maggie Gyllenhaal: Platinum and diamond drop earrings (14.32 carats)
      and bracelet (59.16 carats) by Bvlgari.
  --  Marion Cotillard: Platinum and diamond hair clips (12 carats), and
      platinum and diamond bracelets (53 carats) by Chopard.
  --  Lauren Graham: Platinum and diamond earrings, platinum and diamond
      cuff (90 carats) and a blackened platinum and diamond ring by Lorraine
      Schwartz.
  --  Calista Flockhart: Platinum and diamond earrings and ring, and
      platinum necklace with pearls by Cathy Waterman.
  --  Elisabeth Moss: Platinum and diamond sautoirs (144 carats), and
      platinum and diamond drop earrings by Chopard.
  --  Julie Benz: Platinum and diamond drop earrings (16 carats), platinum
      and diamond bracelet (27 carats), platinum and yellow diamond bracelet
      (45 carats), and a platinum and yellow diamond ring (12 carats) by
      Chopard.
  --  Helen Mirren: Platinum and diamond earrings (18 carats), platinum and
      diamond bracelet (25 carats), and a platinum and diamond ring (7
      carats) by Chopard.
  --  Jeanne Tripplehorn: Platinum and diamond drop earrings (11 carats) by
      Chopard.
  --  Amy Poehler: Platinum and diamond earrings (9 carats) and a platinum
      and diamond bracelet (70 carats) by Chopard.
  --  Sofia Vergara: Platinum and diamond earrings (10 carats) and a
      platinum and diamond bracelet (34 carats) by Chopard.
  --  Jessica Simpson: Platinum earrings by Neil Lane.
  --  Ashley Olsen: Platinum and diamond earrings (22 carats), platinum and
      diamond bracelet (27 carats), platinum and diamond bracelet (54
      carats), platinum and diamond ring (9 carats), and a platinum and
      diamond ring (11 carats) by Chopard.


  Platinum is prized for its Pure, Rare and Eternal qualities:

PURE: Platinum's high level of purity (generally 90%-95% pure) endows it with both a natural white luster, allowing the true radiance of a diamond or gemstone to shine; and hypoallergenic qualities that prove ideal for sensitive skin.
 

Only the purest platinum jewelry will bear a stamp reading "PLATINUM", "PLAT", "Pt 950", or "Pt 900", signifying the jewelry is 90% to 95% pure platinum.
 

RARE: Platinum is 30 times more rare than gold.
 

ETERNAL: Platinum will hold a diamond or gemstone securely, now and for always.
 

For more information on platinum jewelry, please visit www.preciousplatinum.com
 

Designer Sue Wong Announces Disney's Alice in Wonderland-Inspired Fashion Collection

"Sue Wong for Walt Disney Signature" Line Launches Nationwide February 2010

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 15 -- Leading fashion designer Sue Wong announced today the launch of Sue Wong for Walt Disney Signature, a high-end dress line inspired by Disney's "Alice in Wonderland." Tim Burton's highly anticipated film, featuring favorite characters from the classic Lewis Carroll tales, hits the big screen on March 5, 2010 (U.S. theatres). The line developed in collaboration with Disney Consumer Products will launch nationally in February 2010 as a special limited edition collection for Spring 2010.
 

Sue Wong for Walt Disney Signature will feature pieces influenced by key story characters and locations, including Alice, the Red Queen, the White Queen, the White Rabbit and the talking flower garden. The Alice In Wonderland-inspired collection will showcase unique details inspired by the film, such as Victorian antique lace and vibrant details, while offering Sue Wong's signature style: romance, femininity and exquisite hand-craftsmanship.
 

"I have long been mesmerized by the fantastical tales of Alice and her surrealistic adventures in Wonderland and am thrilled to be collaborating with Disney on this project," explains designer Sue Wong. "This classic story, along with Tim Burton's inspired interpretation, lends itself especially well to my design aesthetic, which is whimsical and fun, while adding yet another element of creativity and expression to my artistic process. It is an honor to help bring this marvelous tale to life."
 

"Disney has been influencing fashion trends for several years thanks in part to the universal appeal of our characters and to the inspiration from such creative works of art as Tim Burton's Alice In Wonderland," said Robert Oberschelp, director, Disney Lifestyle Collections for Disney Consumer Products. "Our collaborations with top designers like Sue Wong have also enabled us to keep our lifestyle collections fresh and vibrant serving up an aspirational effect with consumers and Disney fans of all ages."
 

Ranging from $329 to $609, the Sue Wong for Walt Disney Signature collection will be available in fine department stores such as Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom's, Lord and Taylor and Macy's, as well as on www.SueWong.com.
 

ABOUT SUE WONG
 

Sue Wong lives for one thing: To spread glamour and beauty! Alluring and evocative, a Sue Wong design often echoes period style while remaining modern and utterly of the moment. Whether suffused with the sensuous Hollywood glamour of her muses --- Garbo, Dietrich, Lombard --- or steeped in the mystery of a Moroccan seraglio, her creations teem with romance and a restrained opulence. Capturing that spirit with accessible designs of exceptional glamour and beauty, Sue Wong has found a calling she revels in, as couturier to everywoman. Her collection enchants as it empowers, leaving a trail of speechless romantics in its wake.
 

About Walt Disney Pictures' Alice In Wonderland From Walt Disney Pictures and visionary director Tim Burton comes an epic 3D fantasy adventure, Alice In Wonderland. Johnny Depp stars as the Mad Hatter and Mia Wasikowska as 19-year-old Alice, who returns to the whimsical world she first encountered as a young girl, reuniting with her childhood friends: the White Rabbit, Tweedledee and Tweedledum, the Dormouse, the Caterpillar, the Cheshire Cat, and of course, the Mad Hatter. ALICE IN WONDERLAND comes to the big screen in Disney Digital 3D(TM) on March 5, 2010 (U.S. theaters).
 

ABOUT DISNEY CONSUMER PRODUCTS
 

Disney Consumer Products (DCP) is the business segment of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) that extends the Disney brand to merchandise ranging from apparel, toys, home décor and books and magazines to foods and beverages, stationery, electronics and fine art. This is accomplished through DCP's various lines of business which include: Disney Toys, Disney Fashion & Home, Disney Food, Health & Beauty, and Disney Stationery. For more information, please visit www.disneyconsumerproducts.com.
 

c. THE MAID (CHILE)

e. THE WHITE RIBBON (GERMANY)

2009 Country Music Hall of Fame inductee Barbara Mandrell arrives at the 43rd Annual CMA Awards. Photo by: Aaron Crisler/The Judy Nelon Group

LA Opera Presents Rossini's

The Barber of Seville
(Il Barbiere di Siviglia)

Michele Mariotti Conducts Production
from Spain's Teatro Real Directed by Emilio Sagi

Nathan Gunn Stars in Title Role with
Juan Diego Flórez and Joyce DiDonato in Company Debuts

Sunday, November 29 through Saturday, December 19, 2009

(Los Angeles, CA) October 30, 2009 - LA Opera will present Gioachino Rossini's popular bel canto comedy The Barber of Seville (Il Barbiere di Siviglia) in an enchanting production new to Los Angeles opening on Sunday, November 29, 2009. "The Barber of Seville is an opera whose appeal is known and enjoyed worldwide," said Plácido Domingo, LA Opera's Eli and Edythe Broad General Director. "I am delighted that we have been able to assemble a world-class cast of performers, many of them making their Company debuts, who will bring wonderful life to the musical wit and brilliance of this comic masterpiece." Led by Italian conductor Michele Mariotti, the opening cast (also performing on December 2, 6, 9, 13, 16 and on the evening performance on December 19) features baritone Nathan Gunn as Figaro, Peruvian tenor Juan Diego Flórez in his first LA Opera role as Count Almaviva, Operalia winner mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato in her Company debut as Rosina, Italian bass-baritone Bruno Praticò in his Company debut as Doctor Bartolo, and Italian bass Andrea Silvestrelli as Don Basilio. On December 5 and 12 as well as the matinee performance on December 19, the cast is headed by baritone Lucas Meachem in his Company debut as Figaro, joined by Russian tenor Dmitry Korchak, an Operalia winner, in his Company debut as Count Almaviva, soprano Sarah Coburn as Rosina, bass-baritone Philip Cokorinos as Doctor Bartolo and bass-baritone Ryan McKinny as Don Basilio. Spanish director Emilio Sagi returns to stage a production which he originally created for the Teatro Real in Madrid, with scenery designed by Llorenç Corbella, costumes designed by Renata Schussheim and lighting designed by Eduardo Bravo. The choreographer is Nuria Castejón. The Barber of Seville will run for a total of ten performances from November 29 through December 19, 2009. All performances will take place at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles CA, 90012. Tickets to The Barber of Seville range from $20 to $260, and are on sale at the LA Opera Box Office, by phone at (213) 972-8001 or online at www.laopera.com.

Rossini's 1816 opera was based on an immensely popular 1775 play by Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais. Beaumarchais wrote two subsequent "Figaro" plays, the second of which, The Marriage of Figaro, was adapted for the operatic stage by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1786. In The Barber of Seville, the resourceful barber Figaro comes to the aid of his former master, Count Almaviva. The handsome Count is deliriously in love with the ravishing young Rosina, a ward of old Doctor Bartolo, who is determined to marry her himself. Rossini's razor-sharp wit glints through every scene in this riotous yet musically elegant comedy, one of the most popular in the operatic repertoire.

The Barber of Seville opens on Sunday, November 29, 2009 at 2:00pm with subsequent evening performances at 7:30pm on December 2, 5, 9 and 16 and at 8:00pm on December 19. There will be matinee performances at 2:00pm on December 6 and 13, at 12:00pm on December 12 and at 1:00pm on December 19. For disability access, call (213) 972-0777 or e-mail wehelpyou@laopera.com.

Production made possible by generous gifts from the
Lloyd E. Rigler - Lawrence E. Deutsch Foundation
and Synne H. Miller & the late Paul A. Miller.

All programs, artists and dates are subject to change.
The Barber of Seville will be sung in Italian with English supertitles projected above the stage.

Production from Teatro Real, Madrid.

Rolex is the Official Timepiece of LA Opera
Silversea is the Official Cruise Line of LA Opera

    

Beverly Hills-  The 54th Annual Thalians Ball will honor legendary film, stage, and TV star Mickey Rooney and the USO Shows supporting America's Armed Forces around the world. Thalians founders, actresses  Debbie Reynolds and Ruta Lee, will host the evening along with a contemporary version of Uncle Sam.

Many of Mickey Rooney's leading ladies from MGM and other studios will be performing and attending this year. There are too many co-stars to list since Mickey has been working with so many of them in all different age groups. Mickey Rooney has not retired so the Beverly Hilton Ballroom will be a night of beautiful women he has worked with from all age groups.  Those performing will include , Debbie Reynolds, Ruta Lee, Shirley Jones, Nancy Sinatra, Connie Stevens Mitzi Gaynor, Ann Blyth and comedian-ventriloquist Terry Fator, winner of "America's Got Talent 2007" and headlining for 10 years at the Mirage in Las Vegas in "Terry Fator And His Cast Of Thousands." Simon Cowell called him "one of the best entertainers in the world". Also Bruce Vilanch and a special appearance by  The Golddiggers who are on national tour singing and dancing up a storm as they did on The Dean Martin Show and USO shows around the world. Many stars attending include Lou & Carla Ferrigno, Dick Van Patten, Alex Trebek, Gloria Allred, Barbie Benton, Betty Garrett, Carol Connors, Norm Crosby, Joan Van Ark, Ron Masak, Stella Stevens, Ann Rutherford, Terry Moore, Barbara Luna, Jack LaLanne, Elke Sommer, and Gary Marshall.

The 54th Thalians Ball shall benefit the Thalians Mental Health Center at Cedars-Sinai. There are many ticket sale opportunities starting out at $400. per seat and up. Included in the evenings taped for television activities will be live performances from the stars, cocktails, gourmet dinner and fine wines form the Beverly Hilton's world class chefs, a silent and live auction of the best travel, fashion, memorabilia, jewelry, and dining experiences money can buy -all at sensational reduced prices. Dancing music will be provided by the highly popular  live sounds of Lynn Keller and the Suits. The show will be taped for television by ATI-Associated Television International -Executive Producer/Director David McKenzie. Thalians event-producer is Blake Lindquist.

Ticket Information: Thalians Office 310-423-1040 (Please list)
Thalians Web Site:  http://www.thethalians.org/

The 54th Annual Thalians Ball Honoring Mickey Rooney and the USO Armed Forces
Sunday November 1st, 2009
The Beverly Hilton Hotel- International Ballroom- 9876 Wilshire Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90210
5PM- Cocktails Arrivals, 6:30 - Dinner,   7:30 PM - Show Time
Dress Code: Black Tie or Military Uniform no sneakers
 

"SCREAM 2009" premieres Tuesday, October 27 at 10 PM, ET/PT on Spike TV

"KING OF POP" AND "KING OF ROCK" CENTER STAGE AT PROFILES IN HISTORY'S OCTOBER 8-9, 2009 AUCTION

Michael Jackson's Jackson 5 Costumes and Signed Yearbook; Elvis' Personal, Stage-Used Martin D-28, Karate Gi and Gifted 'TCB' Necklace Added As Featured Items

Calabasas, CA, October 1, 2009 - Profiles in History, the world's leading auctioneer of Hollywood memorabilia has added several fantastic items to their upcoming $5,000,000 auction, taking place October 8-9, 2009. Among them are 11 lots of original stage-worn performance costumes from the early period of Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 brothers' career with Motown Records. (*Costumes range from $3,000-$50,000). Also available is a 1976 yearbook signed by Michael to a fellow classmate at Cal Prep School ($*2,000-$3,000). Because there were only 90 students in this exclusive school, very few of these yearbooks are thought to still exist. These items complement Profiles in History's extraordinary Michael Jackson Collection, which includes the iconic illuminating white glove adorned with crystals from his "Suit of Lights" that Jackson wore on stage during The Jackson's Victory Tour (*$60,000-$80,000).

Profiles in History will also present several key Elvis Presley items, including his personal Martin D-28 guitar, used on stage in his final Las Vegas performances (*$60,000-$80,000).  Also added to the auction are the karate gi worn and owned by Elvis Presley and used as the model for the McCormick Distillery whiskey decanter (*$25,000-30,000) and an original Elvis Presley gold lightning bolt "TCB" necklace given by Elvis to his karate training partner Wayne Carman (*$18,000-$22,000).

Worldwide bidding begins at 12:00 PM (noon) both days and can be placed either in person, via mail, phone, fax or live on the Internet at: http://www.icollector.com/Hollywood-Auction-37_as14988

*conservative sale estimate

MICHAEL JACKSON COSTUMES
The eleven lots represent a rare selection of original stage-worn performance costumes from the early period of Michael Jackson and The Jackson 5 brothers' careers with Motown Records. The Jackson 5 burst onto the scene in December of 1969 and took America by storm, becoming the first act in recording history to have their first four major label singles reach the top of the charts. Within a year of their debut, the Jackson 5 was among the biggest names in popular music, fueled by the soulful, emotional expression of an 11 year old Michael Jackson.

The Jackson 5 had a distinctive look created by designer Boyd Clopton. The costumes were bold, bright, animated and striking - like The Jackson 5 themselves. The Jackson 5 also had a number of iconic costumes created by International Costume Company beginning in 1972. Many of the costume pieces were intermixed and overlapped from one performance to another so they didn't always wear the same sets together to keep a fresh look, as illustrated by these reference photos. The costumes were worn for promotion, photo shoots and live stage performances. These special, truly one-of-a-kind costumes defined the early explosive and innocent career of Michael Jackson and The Jackson 5. Acquired from the private collection of Rick Pikrone's Studio Wardrobe Department, a Hollywood vintage clothing and memorabilia boutique who has supplied clothes for hundreds of movies, television shows and celebrities over the years. Each lot comes with a signed letter of authenticity by Rick Pikrone.

Original Cal Prep School 1976 yearbook signed by Michael Jackson
This is a Cal Prep School yearbook for 1976.  It comprises approximately 68 pages and is inscribed and signed by Jackson in black ink at the lower right corner of the front cover, "To a really nice girl.  Love, Michael Jackson".  This small, exclusive school had only 90 students in the entire school and, of this scarce yearbook publication, very few have survived.  Michael is pictured in the class pictures section.  This is the only known yearbook signed by Michael Jackson.  An incredible piece of early Jackson memorabilia.  Includes a LOA from the yearbook's owner and classmate who had Michael sign it in 1976.

Elvis Presley's personal Martin D-28 guitar stage-used in his final Las Vegas performance
This Martin D-28 model guitar (serial number 361827), was used by Elvis in his last Las Vegas stage performances at the Las Vegas Hilton from December 2-12, 1976.  In January, 1977 Elvis presented this Model D-28 guitar to his bodyguard, Sam Thompson.  The guitar features a blonde wood finish and exhibits some plastic residue on the back of the guitar body resulting from, what Elvis relayed to Thompson, a portion of the belt on his stage jumpsuit melting from the hot stage lights.  Following Elvis' death, Thompson sold the guitar in 1978 to The National Enquirer to fund his college education.  The National Enquirer presented "The Elvis Guitar" to Cheryl Schmerr who won a national contest of over 60,000 entries in a well-publicized event hosted by the tabloid.  The guitar, with original case, is accompanied by a notarized letter signed by Sam Thompson, along with a notarized copy of a letter from Elvis' father, Vernon E. Presley, dated January 4, 1978, attesting that his son gave Thompson the Martin D-28 the previous year while at Graceland.  Also comes with a color photograph of Elvis performing on stage with this guitar.  Without question, one of the most significant guitars to ever reach the market and accompanied with exceptional provenance.

Karate Gi worn and owned by Elvis Presley, used as the model for the McCormick Distillery whiskey decanter
Original karate gi personally owned by Elvis Presley, in white with red trim and adorned with many embroidered patches, including the chest insignia "TCB" ("Taking Care of Business") with motto "Faith - Spirit - Discipline".  The gi includes Elvis' seventh degree black belt, which is embroidered "Elvis Presley".  Vernon Presley and Colonel Parker gave this gi to McCormick Distilleries to produce a decanter in Elvis' likeness, as part of a series of celebrity decanters.  In 1982, McCormick donated the gi to the Jim Reeves Museum in Nashville, TN where it was displayed until sold in 1996.  Comes with copies of several letters of provenance tracing the history of the garment and its use by McCormick, as well as a certificate of authenticity from Jimmy Velvet.

Original Elvis Presley gold lightning bolt "TCB" necklace given by Elvis to his karate training partner Wayne Carman
The "TCB" pendant (Elvis' creed, "Taking Care of Business") features a lightning bolt in gold with attached gold rope chain.  Elvis gave this necklace to his friend and Karate training partner, Wayne Carman.  In the accompanying LOA, Carman states the necklace was given to him by Elvis in the early 1970s during one of their Karate workouts.  Carman continues, "Elvis was a Tiger and I was a Lion in the martial Arts.  Initially, Elvis wanted to give me his Lion Claw necklace, because I had admired it one night during a class.  I refused his generosity at the time and told him that his friendship was gift enough.The next time I saw him he gave me my T.C.B. necklace.  As he gave it to me, he said, 'Wayne, this is an act of friendship, so you can't refuse it!'  Carman states he later had the necklace enhanced with diamonds.  Also includes a signed hardbound copy of Carman's book, Elvis's Karate Legacy: The Untold Story of Elvis Presley's Faith, Spirit, and Discipline, with lengthy inscription discussing Elvis giving him this necklace.

For more information about Profiles in History and to download a complete catalog of the 1000+ items that will be offered for sale at this auction, please visit HYPERLINK "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/" \o "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/" www.profilesinhistory.com or http://www.icollector.com/Hollywood-Auction-37_as14988.

About Profiles in History:
Founded in 1985 by Joseph Maddalena, Profiles in History is the world's leading auctioneer of Hollywood memorabilia. Profiles in History has held some of the most prestigious and successful auctions of Hollywood memorabilia. Their auctions include costumes, props and set pieces from both vintage and contemporary film, television, and rock 'n roll. Profiles in History's location in Calabasas Hills, CA- virtually a stone's throw away from every major Hollywood studio - ensures a constant flow of fantastic and rare artifacts. With an extensive network of dealers, collectors, and public & private institutions, they are proud to play an important role in the preservation of motion picture history.

Prior Profiles in History Hollywood auctions highlights include the "Cowardly Lion" costume from The Wizard of Oz ($805,000); a full-scale model T-800 Endoskeleton from Terminator 2: Judgment Day ($488,750); a T.I.E. Fighter filming miniature from Star Wars ($402,500); a King Kong six-sheet movie poster ($345,000); the Command Chair from the "U.S.S. Enterprise" ($304,750); Harrison Ford's hero blaster from Blade Runner ($258,750); the original "Robot" from Lost in Space ($264,500); Luke Skywalker's lightsaber ($240,000); a Frankenstein one-sheet movie poster ($212,400); the Black Beauty car from The Green Hornet ($192,000); George Reeves' Superman costume from The Adventures of Superman ($126,500); the H.R. Giger designed Alien creature suit from Alien ($126,500); a full-scale T-Rex head from Jurassic Park ($126,500), the Leaping Alien Warrior figure from Aliens ($126,500), Christopher Reeve's 'Superman' costume from Superman: The Movie ($115,000), C-3PO's helmet ($120,000),  The Wizard of Oz 'Winkie' Guard Costume ($115,000); a "Ming the Merciless" cape from Flash Gordon ($115,000) and the Hydraulic screen-used Velociraptor from The Lost World: Jurassic Park II ($115,000).

Creator Berkeley Breathed to raffle off Sunday strip original art
at Long Beach Comic Con on Saturday, October 3^rd

Limited Number of Bloom County Library Volume One

will be available for first time

ELVIS PRESLEY MUSIC + BOOK NEWS


Elvis Presley Music News

George Barris- Elvis Presley at Barris Kustom City 1950's.

 

Los Angeles / Memphis/ New York -  (LMS)-  Amazingly, the music returns...In a breathe of New Life, the unmistaken Memphis Sound is back in full force.  For the first time since the death of Elvis Presley in 1977, the King's entire "Hit Making Team"  returned to the recording studio with the singer/songwriter John Krondes to make new music and keep the dream alive. A celebrity red carpet CD launch and book signing event hosted by famed Hollywood Car Kustomizer and Elvis friend George Barris with Joe Esposito, Elvis Presley's best man will rock the music world on Tuesday September 22nd.and

Thirty-Two years after the death of the King, fate has brought virtually the entire Elvis "Hit Making Team" back to the studio. http://www.hitmakingteam.com/  Beginning with the beautiful new recording of THE END by John Krondes and the Jordanaires, the unimaginable wish has turned reality.  The eerily familiar harmonious sound of John Krondes and the Jordanaires began to peak and trigger the interest of Presley Band Members and Singers, Radio Stations and Fans alike.  Steadily, as news of this new powerful music collaboration travelled through the Elvis World, more and more of the original "Hit Team" members began to surface and heed fate's call to return to the recording studio.

Ten Years in the making, and recorded in studios all across America; dedication, determination, inspiration from fans and the love for Elvis has fueled the fire for the "Hit Making Team" to keep moving toward the goal of bringing the Memphis Rock Sound back to deserving loyal fans.  Now a dream has become a "New Beginning" for the King and the re-creation of the successful musical operation that Elvis Presley had built and spearheaded for over Twenty Years.  John Krondes and the "Hit Making Team" proudly dedicate this new epic CD THE END A New Beginning to the memory of the King and the fans that have been left with a dispiriting soundlessness since 1977.

Joe Esposito, who was the Best Man at Elvis Presley's wedding and his Road Manager for 18 Years until the King's death, has taken the helm as Chairman and leader of the Elvis "Hit Making Team".  Esposito thanking the fans and media around the world, has said that the "Hit Making Team" project breathes new life for Elvis; and the completion of this momentous new CD, the second chance for the music to play on for Elvis.  Joe Esposito was at Elvis' side in Germany as he serenaded Priscilla Beaulieu on the piano on the night they met with the timeless standard, THE END, and full circle he's watched as THE END now brings New Life and a New Start for Elvis in music.

Featured in the new recordings are all of Presley's vocal groups: the Jordanaires, the former original Stamps Quartet, Imperials, and Sweet Inspirations.  Both of the King's Bands rock the house for the comeback; included are the TCB Band and the "Memphis Boys" - the American Studios Band.  Elvis Presley's first drummer DJ Fontana, and star drummers Ronnie Tutt, Gene Chrisman, Steve Gadd and Anton Fig keep the beat for the "Hit Team".  This heart-Stirring project also includes scores of super talent who accompanied the King; Millie Kirkham, Shane Keister, Bobby Ogdin, Gary Herbig, Lanny Morgan, Elvis Presley's original Horn Section, Arrangers, Elvis composers Paul Evans, Paul Parnes, Al Byron, Jimmy Krondes, Randy Starr, and many others.

John Krondes and the "Hit Making Team" salute the King and dedicate this epic CD as a fresh start and New Beginning for the music.  Spectacularly friends, the melodious Memphis Sound is Back, the spirit has risen, and the music will never die.

What:  Elvis Hit Making Team "The End"CD Launch & George Barris Book Signing "Barris Cars of the Stars"(with Elvis) Red Carpet Celebrity Event

When:  Tuesday September 22nd, 2009   6PM to 10:00 PM

Where:  Barris Kustom City   10811 Riverside Drive (at Lankersham Blvd. north of Universal Studios) N. Hollywood, CA  91602

Who: John Krondes and the Elvis Hit Making Team- The Jordanaires, the former original Stamps Quartet, Imperials, Sweet Inspirations, TCB Band, "Memphis Boys" - the American Studios Band -  Celebrities attending: Joe Esposito(Elvis Best Man), Dr. George Nichopolous(Elvis Dr.), Linda Thompson, Suzanna Leigh(Elvis co-star "Paradise Hawiaan Style"), Darlene Tompkins(Elvis co-star "Blue Hawaii", Ray Walker(The Jordanires, Jay Leno, Bo Derek, Shirley Jones & Marty Ingels, Sybil Danning, Lou & CarlaFerrigno, Nancy Sinatra, John Schneider, Phyliss Diller, Mamie Van Doren, Francesca Hilton, Casandra Petersen (Elvira), Kato Kaelin, Lydia Hearst, Denise Brown, Butch Patick (Munsters Band), Carol Connors(2xOscar nom. song writer+Elvis girlfriend)), Joe Mantagna, James Darren, Jody Babydol Gibson, Billy Gibbons(ZZ Top), Gloria Allred, Barbara Lazaroff, Playmates, Florence LaRue(5th Dimension), Pietra-Billy Bob Thornton, Tippi Hedren, Erik Estrada, Francine York & Tanya George(Elvis actresses Ticklish Affair) and many others.

*The Barris Star Cars that will be on display include: The Munsters Koach, Kargoyle(Paris Hilton shoot), Bo Derek's Barrister, the Knightrider KITT, James Dean Replica Porsche Spyder motion picture car, Barris Kustom Magnum(Joe Mantagna), Barris Kustom Tuxedo Cadillac- Barris Hot Rod Fan Cars will be out in force.

Why:  Elvis Presley Hit Making Team-launches their first time CD since the death of Elvis at a CD Book Signing for the benefit of Elvis favorite charity St.Jude Children.s Research Hospital with George Barris Book Signing with new Elvis related coffee table hardcover book from Host George Barris "Barris Cars of the Stars"(Motorbooks)

Event News Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKGgLdEEr3c
Links: . http://www.hitmakingteam.com/            www.barris.com     www.lozzipr.com
Event Co- Sponsor The Tolucan TimesSponsor   www.tolucantimes.com

CD Cover of the Elvis Hit Making Teams First CD since Elvis died- and Cover of new George Barris book with Elvis Dedications
Photos (Lozzi Media Services)
 

Elvis Presley stands in front of his George Barris designed White Cadillac limousine
From: Barris, Cars of the Stars (Motorbooks International)



PROFILES IN HISTORY TO OFFER EARLY PRODUCTION MACINTOSH 128 COMPUTER GIVEN TO
GENE RODDENBERRY BY APPLE COMPUTER

Iconic Technological Artifact Will Be Part of Their Huge October 8-9, 2009 Auction


Calabasas, CA, September 17, 2009 - Profiles in History, the world's leading auctioneer of Hollywood memorabilia, will be offering an early production Macintosh 128 computer, given to Gene Roddenberry by Apple Computer, Inc. This computer was subsequently upgraded to a Macintosh Plus by Apple for Mr. Roddenberry and signifies the wonderful association between the visionary computer designer/manufacturer and legendary Star Trek creator, and is a stellar example of the powerful synergy between technology and entertainment. This amazing artifact, which is accompanied by a signed letter of provenance from Gene Roddenberry's son, Rod, will be a special addition to Profiles in History's October 8-9, 2009 auction of Hollywood memorabilia. It has an estimated sale price of $800-$1200. Worldwide bidding begins at 12:00 PM (noon) both days and can be placed either in person, via mail, phone, fax or live on the Internet at:
http://www.icollector.com/Hollywood-Auction-37_a5736.

"This is the personification of life imitating art. Gene Roddenberry's vision inspired countless people to pursue careers in science and aerospace.  This milestone computer, given to Gene by Apple's innovators, is a symbol of this synergy," said Joe Maddalena, president of Profiles in History.

Already announced as part of the same auction are Michael Jackson's iconic illuminating white glove that he wore on the Victory tour as well as the original cover art from The Jacksons "Victory" album.

For more information about Profiles in History and to download a complete catalog of items that will be available, please visit HYPERLINK "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/" \o "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/"www.profilesinhistory.com.

About Profiles in History:
Founded in 1985 by Joseph Maddalena, Profiles in History is the world's leading auctioneer of Hollywood memorabilia. Profiles in History has held some of the most prestigious and successful auctions of Hollywood memorabilia. Their auctions include costumes, props and set pieces from both vintage and contemporary film, television, and rock 'n roll. Profiles in History's location in Calabasas Hills, CA- virtually a stone's throw away from every major Hollywood studio - ensures a constant flow of fantastic and rare artifacts. With an extensive network of dealers, collectors, and public & private institutions, they are proud to play an important role in the preservation of motion picture history.

Prior Profiles in History Hollywood auctions highlights include the "Cowardly Lion" costume from The Wizard of Oz ($805,000); a full-scale model T-800 Endoskeleton from Terminator 2: Judgment Day ($488,750); a T.I.E. Fighter filming miniature from Star Wars ($402,500); a King Kong six-sheet movie poster ($345,000); the Command Chair from the "U.S.S. Enterprise" ($304,750); Harrison Ford's hero blaster from Blade Runner ($258,750); the original "Robot" from Lost in Space ($264,500); Luke Skywalker's lightsaber ($240,000); a Frankenstein one-sheet movie poster ($212,400); the Black Beauty car from The Green Hornet ($192,000); George Reeves' Superman costume from The Adventures of Superman ($126,500); the H.R. Giger designed Alien creature suit from Alien ($126,500); a full-scale T-Rex head from Jurassic Park ($126,500), the Leaping Alien Warrior figure from Aliens ($126,500), Christopher Reeve's 'Superman' costume from Superman: The Movie ($115,000), C-3PO's helmet ($120,000),  The Wizard of Oz 'Winkie' Guard Costume ($115,000); a "Ming the Merciless" cape from Flash Gordon ($115,000) and the Hydraulic screen-used Velociraptor from The Lost World: Jurassic Park II ($115,000).

Entertainment Arts Fashion and Technology

Barbara Lazaroff, ASID, Founding Partner Spago   

RING FESTIVAL LA NOW ONLINE

WEBSITE SHOWCASES MORE THAN 100 CULTURAL AND EDUCATIONAL
INSTITUTIONS WHO HAVE JOINED WITH LA OPERA IN
CELEBRATING THE ARTS, LA STYLE

Citywide Festival Runs April 15-June30, 2010

(Los Angeles, CA) August 25, 2009 - In 2010, LA Opera will join forces with more than 100 cultural and educational institutions in Los Angeles to stage Ring Festival LA, a citywide celebration of arts and culture based on LA Opera's first-time presentation of Richard Wagner's epic Ring cycle. LA Opera created the new website: RingFestivalLA.com an online resource to serve the needs of those interested in learning more about the events, seminars, and exhibitions that will take place in a wide variety of educational and cultural venues throughout Southern California during the ten-week long celebration.

According to Plácido Domingo, LA Opera's Eli and Edythe Broad General Director, "When I first discussed the idea of creating a Ring Festival at a Los Angeles Times roundtable in March 2008 with several of my colleagues from other cultural institutions, we all thought that it would be a wonderful way to celebrate the diversity of our city's world-class cultural offerings, centered on a genuine cultural milestone: the first complete Ring cycles ever presented in Los Angeles. Opera, and especially the Ring, invites exactly this sort of intensive analysis and discussion, and the Festival will provide many different forums for gaining insights into the past and exploring moral issues."

The new RingFestivalLA.com website features a timely newsroom that features articles of interest, fact sheets and news releases. The "Partners" section provides a full listing of participating organizations as well as listings of the events that are taking place at cultural and educational institutions throughout the region and links to the Partners. In addition, there are links to LA's first-ever Ring cycle and resources for further study, e-newsletter sign-up and archive, and invitations to engage with Ring Festival LA via the Festival blog multimedia section. There are also social media links to Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and YouTube.

"Los Angeles is a disparate, diverse and experimental city - divided and separated in so many ways," said Barry Sanders, Ring Festival Leader. "Ring Festival LA will bind the community together through the many entertaining, thought provoking, and enlightening events that will take place during the festival. What makes this a great city is what happens here and we intend this to be a celebration felt by everyone. I am delighted that the public can now begin to plan out the events they will want to engage in during the run of the festival by visiting RingFestivalLA.com."

RING FESTIVAL LA PARTNERS

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
ACE Gallery
American Cinematheque
American Film Institute
American Jewish University
Bergamot Station: Ruth Bachofner Gallery
Beverly Hills Library
Billy Wilder Theater @ Hammer Museum
The Bohemians
Boston Court Performing Arts Center
Brand Library, Glendale Public Library
Burbank Public Library
c3: Center for Conscious Creativity
California African American Museum
California Art Club
California Institute of the Arts
California State University, Northridge
Cardex
Center Theatre Group
Cinespia Cemetery Screenings
Claremont Public Library, County of LA Public Library
Classical KUSC FM 91.5
The Colburn School
Congregation Kol Ami
Cool Street Music
County of Los Angeles Public Library
Crowell Public Library
Descanso Gardens
Eli and Edythe Broad Stage
Geffen Playhouse
Gelson's
German Consulate General - Los Angeles
Goethe-Institut Los Angeles
Grammy Museum
Grand Performances / daKAH Hip Hop Orchestra
Griffith Observatory
The HeArt Project
Hispanics for LA Opera
The Huntington Library
Istituto Italiano di Cultura
J. Paul Getty Museum
JACARANDA: music at the edge
KCET
KPCC-FM Radio
LA County Arts Commission
LA County Museum of Art
LA Inc.
LA Trade Technical College
LA Unified School District
La Verne Library, County of LA Public Library
Laemmle Theaters / Arthouse Marketing
Laetitia Vineyard & Winery
The Latino Museum of History, Art and Culture
Library Foundation of Los Angeles
Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra
Los Angeles Conservancy
Los Angeles Film Festival
Los Angeles Magazine
Los Angeles Master Chorale
Los Angeles Philharmonic
Los Angeles Public Library
Lyric Opera of Los Angeles
Machine Project LA
Mount St. Mary's College
Museum of Contemporary Art
Museum of Latin American Art
Music Center: Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles County
Musical Theatre Guild
Norton Simon Museum
Opera America
The Opera League of Los Angeles
Operetta Foundation
Oxnard Public Library
Pasadena Public Library
Patina Restaurant Association
Platt Branch, Los Angeles Public Library
Porter Ranch Branch, Los Angeles Public Library
Redondo Beach Library
Robert V. Fullerton Art Museum
Santa Monica Library
Santa Monica Museum of Art
Southern California Wagner Society
Sundance Institute
Symphony in the Glen
Thousand Oaks Library
University of California Los Angeles
University of La Verne
Urban Educational Partnership
USC - Max Kade Institute for Austrian-German-Swiss Studies
USC Brain and Creativity Institute
USC College of Letters, Arts and Sciences
USC Thornton School of Music
USC - The Marshall School of Business
The Verdi Chorus
Villa Aurora
Young Musicians Foundation

Listing of partners as of August 24, 2009

LA Opera Opens 2009/10 Season with Gaetano Donizetti's

The Elixir of Love
(L'Elisir d'Amore)

James Conlon to Conduct Revival
Directed by Stephen Lawless

Production Features Company Debuts of Tenor Giuseppe Filianoti,
Soprano Nino Machaidze and Bass Ruggero Raimondi,
and the Return of Baritone Nathan Gunn
 

Saturday, September 12 through Wednesday, September 30, 2009

(Los Angeles, CA) August 13, 2009 - Plácido Domingo, LA Opera's Eli and Edythe Broad General Director, announced that the Company will open its 2009/10 season with a revival of its popular production of Gaetano Donizetti's bel canto masterpiece, The Elixir of Love (L'Elisir d'Amore) opening on Saturday, September 12 at 6:00pm. The production will be conducted by James Conlon, the Company's Richard Seaver Music Director, and directed by Stephen Lawless, who returns to direct a production that he previously staged here in 1996 and 1999. "LA Opera audiences will be charmed by the season-opening revival of The Elixir of Love, the first bel canto opera to be seen here since Lucia di Lammermoor in 2003," said Mr. Domingo. "This production will introduce three remarkable singers in their first appearances with LA Opera, as well as the return of one of America's favorite baritones." The Elixir of Love will run for a total of seven performances from September 12 through 30. All performances will take place at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles CA, 90012. Tickets to The Elixir of Love range from $20 to $260, and are on sale at the LA Opera Box Office, by phone at (213) 972-8001 or online at www.laopera.com.

LA Opera's revival of The Elixir of Love, one of Donizetti's most enduring and popular comedies, features an all-star cast that includes several notable debuts. In the leading role of Nemorino, Italian tenor Giuseppe Filianoti makes his Company debut as a young peasant desperate to attract the notice of a beautiful and wealthy landowner. The object of Nemorino's affection, Adina, will be performed by Georgian soprano Nino Machaidze in her U.S. debut. American baritone Nathan Gunn, who made his LA Opera debut last season as Papageno in The Magic Flute, will return as Sergeant Belcore, Nemorino's blustery rival for Adina's affections, and the great Italian bass Ruggero Raimondi will make his Company debut as Doctor Dulcamara, who seems to offer Nemorino the solution to all of his problems. Soprano Valerie Vinzant, a member of LA Opera's Domingo-Thornton Young Artist Program, will perform the role of Giannetta. The scenery and costumes are designed by Johan Engels and the lighting is designed by Joan Sullivan-Genthe. Grant Gershon is the Associate Conductor / Chorus Master. The popular production, which has won universal praise for its staging and lively depiction of the Tuscan countryside, has been staged by director Stephen Lawless twice before in Los Angeles, as well as in Geneva, Madrid, Houston, Graz and Washington, D.C.

Filled with light-hearted charm and yearning romance, The Elixir of Love features effervescent Italian melodies and plenty of bel canto vocal fireworks. The titular "elixir of love" is a quack doctor's "magic" love potion that decides the fate of a love triangle involving a small-town bumpkin, a dashing sergeant and the bewitching town flirt in one of opera's most popular comedies. Donizetti's masterpiece beautifully counterpoises touching and comic elements to create an opera that ranges from heartfelt poignancy to unfettered joy. Musical highlights include Nemorino's poignant "Una furtiva lagrima," one of the most famous of all tenor arias.

The Elixir of Love opens on Saturday, September 12, 2009 at 6:00pm with additional evening performances at 7:30pm on September 15, 22, 25 and 30, with Sunday matinees at 2:00pm on September 20 and 27. Performances will be held at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Tickets to The Elixir of Love range from $20 to $260, and are on sale at the LA Opera Box Office, by phone at (213) 972-8001 or online at www.laopera.com. For disability access, call (213) 972-0777 or e-mail wehelpyou@laopera.com.

Production made possible by a generous gift from Mr. and Mrs. Milan Panic

Additional support from The Seaver Endowment

Grimmy Nominees

Our esteemed judges have chosen nominees from submissions made by movie studios and independent filmmakers. Eligible titles were released on home video between Sept. 1, 2008, and Aug. 31, 2009.

The nominees were judged based on the entire disc treatment — transfer quality, sound and picture, menu design, ease of use, navigation, packaging and other elements relevant to the disc.

Now it is up to you, the horror fan, to choose the winners!

Descriptions of the categories and films, as well as movie reviews, are included here to aid in the voting process.

Best DTV Release Titles that did not have a theatrical release and premiered on home video.
	Alien Raiders, Warner Home Video A group of rogue scientists take the employees and customers of an Arizona supermarket hostage when they track an alien infestation to that location. Now they must determine who is an alien and who isn’t and stop the invasion at all costs. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Cold Prey, Anchor Bay Entertainment Cold Prey shattered box-office records in Europe with its chilling story about a group of snowboarders stranded deep in the snow-capped Norwegian mountains who are hunted by a ruthless killer. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Jack Brooks Monster Slayer, Anchor Bay Entertainment This homage to the prosthetic monster epics of the ’70s and ’80s stars Trevor Matthews as a plumber with a past, battling a host of monsters to save humanity – and get the girl. Also features a performance by veteran horror icon Robert Englund. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Laid to Rest, Anchor Bay Entertainment Writer/director Robert Hall creates an all-new horror icon, ChromeSkull, who treats audiences to some of the most inventive and disturbing kills ever seen in a slasher film as he pursues his target (Bobbi Sue Luther). DreadCentral DVD Reviews Home Media Magazine DVD Review
Best Packaging Titles with particularly original packaging or those that include free items such as movie posters, buttons or T-shirts.
	Friday the 13th: Deluxe Editions (Parts 1-6), Paramount Home Entertainment The 2009 DVD re-releases of the first six films in the legendary horror franchise come with new lenticular 3D covers and loads of bonus features. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Halloween: 30th Anniversary Commemorative Set, Anchor Bay Entertainment This six-disc tribute to Michael Myers includes the original film on DVD and Blu-ray, an extended version of the first film on DVD, the fourth and fifth films on DVD, a 25th anniversary documentary DVD and a miniature replica of the mask. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Hellraiser Box Set, Anchor Bay Entertainment Fashioned after the Lament Configuration box from the films, the Hellraiser Box Set includes the 20th Anniversary DVDs of the first two films and the new Hellraiser Blu-ray.   DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	The Hunger: The Complete First Season, E1 Entertainment The four-DVD set includes all 22 episodes from the 1997 season of the little-known series of 30-minute horror stories hosted by Terence Stamp.
Best Boxed Set or TV Series Releases with multiple films included in a boxed set, or a complete TV season or series in a boxed set.
	Dead Like Me: The Complete Collection, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment Georgia “George” Lass is young, successful, attractive … and a grim reaper assigned to escort souls into the afterlife. The nine-DVD set includes the critically-acclaimed 2003-04 seasons of the Showtime series, as well as the 2008 DTV feature-length film. Home Media Magazine DVD Review
	Dexter: The Complete Third Season, Showtime/CBS/Paramount Home Entertainment The four-DVD set includes all 12 episodes from the 2008 season of the Showtime series about a serial killer (Michael C. Hall) who delivers vigilante justice. Includes special guest performances by Jimmy Smits.
	Friday the 13th — The Series: The First Season, CBS/Paramount Home Entertainment The six-DVD set includes all 26 episodes from the 1987 season of the series that garnered two Primetime Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Achievement in Special Visual Effects and Outstanding Achievement in Graphic Design and Title Sequences. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Ghost House Underground: Eight-Film Collection, Lionsgate Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert present eight titles in this set, including: Room 205, Brotherhood of Blood, Dark Floors: The Lordi Motion Picture, Trackman, The Substitute, Dance of the Dead, No Man’s Land: The Rise of the Reeker and The Last House in the Woods. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
Best Re-release Titles that have been re-released with additional special features, such as special editions, director’s cuts and anniversary editions. Recognition of re-mastering is reserved for another category.
	Child’s Play: Chucky’s 20th Birthday Edition, Fox/MGM Home Entertainment After serial killer Charles “Chucky” Lee Ray transfers his spirit into the must-have toy of the year, young Andy Barclay gets the possessed, murderous doll as a birthday gift. The DVD contains all new special features such as select scene commentary by Chucky himself, all-new interviews, vintage featurettes and more. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Friday the 13th: Deluxe Editions (Parts 1-6), Paramount Home Entertainment The 2009 DVD re-releases of the first six films in the legendary horror franchise come with new lenticular 3D covers and loads of bonus features. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	The Last House on the Left (1972), Fox/MGM Home Entertainment When two young girls are kidnapped and brutalized by three of the most sadistic and terrifying killers to ever cross the big screen, one of the victim’s parents seeks ultimate vengeance. Special features include commentary, never-before-seen outtakes, photo gallery, featurettes, Wes Craven’s annotated shooting scripts and more. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	My Bloody Valentine: Special Edition (1981), Lionsgate A killer targets young lovers celebrating Valentine’s Day. The DVD includes restored lost/deleted scenes that allow the viewer to watch separately or as they were originally intended as part of the film. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
Best Blu-ray Titles released on Blu-ray Disc, with special focus on exclusive Blu-ray features and BD Live functionality.
	Ghostbusters, Sony Pictures The 25th anniversary edition of Ivan Reitman's classic supernatural comedy includes all-new exclusive HD extras, including the picture-in-picture “Slimer Mode,” behind-the-scenes discussions of making the movie, and a featurette called “Ecto-1: Resurrecting the Classic Car.”. Home Media Magazine DVD Review
	Hellraiser, Anchor Bay The seminal 1987 film starring Ashley Laurence and Andrew Robinson broke new cinematic ground in its depiction of the sadistic Cenobites and their depravities. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	The Mist, Genius/Weinstein The fully loaded two-disc set contains the theatrical version of the film, a black-and-white version and a slew of extras, including commentary by writer-director Frank Darabont and a conversation with Stephen King and Darabont. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, MPI/Dark Sky Tobe Hooper’s film about a group of teenagers who are hunted and terrorized by a chainsaw-wielding killer and his crazed family has been called grisly, sick and perverse, and is considered by some to be the movie that redefined horror. DreadCentral DVD Reviews Home Media Magazine DVD Review
Best Indie/Foreign (with domestic release) Independently produced or foreign titles with a domestic U.S. release, either theatrical or direct to video.
	Baghead, Sony Pictures A spoof of the horror genre from acclaimed indie filmmakers Mark and Jay Duplass in which four struggling actors retreat to a cabin in the mountains to write a screenplay which would make them all stars, but instead find their horror story is coming true. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Jack Brooks Monster Slayer, Anchor Bay Entertainment This homage to the prosthetic monster epics of the ’70s and ’80s stars Trevor Matthews as a plumber with a past, battling a host of monsters to save humanity – and get the girl. Also features a performance by veteran horror icon Robert Englund. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Martyrs, Genius/Weinstein A young woman seeks revenge against people who kidnapped and tormented her as a child. She and a friend, who is also a victim of child abuse, embark on a terrifying journey into a living hell. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	[REC], Sony Pictures Home Entertainment This film is the international horror sensation that inspired Quarantine. When a reporter and her cameraman encounter an unknown terror, the only thing that may survive the unbelievable nightmare is their film record. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
Best Theatrical Titles that had a theatrical release, including limited run.
	The Alphabet Killer, Anchor Bay Entertainment The Alphabet Killer is a psychological thriller starring Eliza Dushku, Timothy Hutton and Cary Elwes. While investigating gruesome child murders, a police detective suffers a mental breakdown. Years later, she’s still haunted by the visions of the murder victims while trying to find the elusive killer. DreadCentral DVD Reviews Home Media Magazine DVD Review
	The Last House on the Left (2009), Universal Studios Home Entertainment In this updated version of the Wes Craven classic, a gang of kidnappers led by a prison escapee unknowingly finds refuge at a vacation home that belongs to the parents of one of the kidnap victims. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Mirrors, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment Kiefer Sutherland stars as an ex-cop turned security guard who is being stalked by an evil force through mirrors. The DVD has an unrated cut of the film, with such extras as an in-depth look into the myths and mythology behind mirrors and a chilling alternate ending. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	The Uninvited, Paramount Home Entertainment Following the suspicious death of their mother, sisters Anna and Alex become entangled in a deadly battle of wills when their father becomes engaged to Rachel, their mother’s former caretaker. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
Best Zombie Titles wherein the main storyline is centered on zombies.
	Beneath the Surface, Well Go USA A teenager uses ancient magic to resurrect his childhood love, unleashing a chain of chaotic events. DreadCentral DVD Reviews Home Media Magazine DVD Review
	Dead Space: Downfall, Anchor Bay Entertainment Based on the video game, Dead Space: Downfall chronicles the plight of the crew of the USG Ishimura. Far from Earth, they fight to survive the onslaught of a long-dormant alien race, unleashed by the discovery of an ancient religious artifact. DreadCentral DVD Reviews Home Media Magazine DVD Review
	Quarantine, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment An American adaptation of the Spanish hit [REC]. A television reporter and her cameraman are trapped inside a building quarantined after the outbreak of a mysterious virus that turns humans into bloodthirsty killers. DreadCentral DVD Reviews Home Media Magazine DVD Review
	Tokyo Zombie, Anchor Bay Entertainment A pair of full-time slackers battles a non-stop barrage of hasty decapitations, perverted teachers, tasty snack foods, stormy romance and zombie professional wrestling in this horror-comedy sensation from Japan. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
Best Slasher Titles wherein the main storyline is centered on a psychopathic killer who stalks and kills victims in a violent (and usually graphic) manner.
	Cold Prey, Anchor Bay Entertainment Cold Prey shattered box-office records in Europe with its chilling story about a group of snowboarders stranded deep in the snow-capped Norwegian mountains and hunted by a ruthless killer. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	The Jason Slasher Collection, Warner Home Video The boxed set includes the “Friday the 13th” sequels Jason Goes to Hell, Jason X and Freddy vs. Jason (the Nightmare on Elm Street crossover).
	Laid to Rest, Anchor Bay Entertainment Writer/director Robert Hall creates an all-new horror icon, ChromeSkull, who treats audiences to some of the most inventive and disturbing kills ever seen in a slasher film as he pursues his target (Bobbi Sue Luther). DreadCentral DVD Reviews Home Media Magazine DVD Review
	The Last House on the Left (1972), Fox/MGM Home Entertainment When two young girls are kidnapped and brutalized by three of the most sadistic and terrifying killers to ever cross the big screen, one of the victim’s parents seeks ultimate vengeance. Special features include commentary, never-before-seen outtakes, photo gallery, featurettes, Wes Craven’s annotated shooting scripts and more. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
Best Ghost Story Titles wherein the main storyline is centered on paranormal activity.
	The Alphabet Killer, Anchor Bay Entertainment The Alphabet Killer is a psychological thriller starring Eliza Dushku, Timothy Hutton and Cary Elwes. While investigating gruesome child murders, a police detective suffers a mental breakdown. Years later, she’s still haunted by the visions of the murder victims while trying to find the elusive killer. DreadCentral DVD Reviews Home Media Magazine DVD Review
	The Haunting in Connecticut, Lionsgate Based on a documented true story, a family discovers that their new home is haunted when strange events begin happening. The DVD includes a two-part documentary in which the actual people involved in the haunting are interviewed. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
	Imprint, MTI Home Video A Native-American attorney is forced to re-examine her beliefs when she starts to hear ghostly voices and see strange visions.
	Mirrors, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment Kiefer Sutherland stars as an ex-cop turned security guard who is being stalked by an evil force through mirrors. The DVD has an unrated cut of the film, with such extras as an in-depth look into the myths and mythology behind mirrors and a chilling alternate ending. DreadCentral DVD Reviews
The winners in both the Re-mastering and Vampire/Werewolf categories were previously determined during the nomination process due to the judges’ overwhelming vote for a single title in each category. Similarly, the Best in Show award will be presented to the title that, in the judges’ opinion, is the best overall from the entire pool of submitted entries.

All programs, artists and dates are subject to change.
The Elixir of Love will be sung in Italian with English supertitles projected above the stage.

This is an LA Opera original production.

Rolex is the Official Timepiece of LA Opera
Silversea is the Official Cruise Line of LA Opera

Need a musician or singer?  Click "Post a free ad" on our website to enter a free ad, view detailed profiles of many serious players, and contact them directly. 

Need a gig?  To list yourself as an available musician so working bands can contact you, click "I'm a musician or singer seeking work or group to join".   

*****************

What happened in the summer of 1969?  Well, some dude finally stepped on the moon, and there was a tiny gathering of hippies at Woodstock, and....Musicians Contact was born!  Yikes, it's been 40 years since our birth in Hollywood.  (And to help celebrate check out the half price tickets to Laserium below).  THANK YOU to all the bands and musicians from superstars to bar bands that have kept us going.  Click "Famous Clients" on our web site to read a quick history of our company.  After four decades our function is still the same: a referral between musicians and groups seeking each other.  The original.  Now take a deep breath and blow out 40 candles!

Six weeks ago we sent an email stating that Billboard magazine had asked us for stories from musicians who had performed with Michael Jackson.  We received a much larger response than anticipated and wish to thank those that responded with their fond memories.  We gave them to Billboard and the Michael Jackson special was then published with the issue date of July 11.

So, when was the last time you saw Laserium?  The original show ran for 29 years at the Griffith Observatory.  Well, it's back, in a permanent residence at the Vine Theater, 6321 Hollywood Blvd.  You can experience the music of Pink Floyd, The Beatles, or Led Zeppelin while witnessing the most incredible updated laser light show with 3D animations.  To celebrate our birthday, we're offering you 50% off the box office ticket price, so you pay only $7.50 for adults and $6.00 for kids!  Do this:  Go to http://www.Laserium.com/tickets.html  Pick your show, date and time, number of tickets, then go to Checkout.  Input this promo code: 50LASER9523 and the 50% discount will be given to each ticket, (up to 8 people per ticket order).  Then print your tickets and bring them to the box office.  But wait - there IS a catch - offer expires 8/31/09.  See you there!

Linda Hamilton, Cuba Gooding Sr., Richard Tyson, David DeLuise, Judd Nelson, Traci Lords, Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, Lisa Waltz, Alexis Arquette, Chris Slade (from AC/DC), Bruce Kulick (from Kiss), Ben Valenty, Alfonso Freeman, Al Sapienza, Walton Goggins, Sam Horrigan, Nick Stabile, Christina Murphy, Chris Payne Gilbert, Tiya Sircar, Melissa Ordway, Carlos Ramirez, the cast of Knuckle Draggers and many more will attend this special screening of Knuckle Draggers.

West Hollywood- (LMS) - Knuckle Draggers is taking the festival circuit by storm.  With only three festivals under its belt it has already claimed 5 Awards.   Taking home two  “Rising Star” awards – at the Delray Beach Film Festival “Outstanding Feature by a New Filmmaker/ Producer” & “Best Close-up” in a feature film, and from the ReelHeART Film Fest in Toronto, Knuckle Draggers grabs  “Best Editing” – Alex Ranarivelo, “Best Feature Film” – 2nd place Alex Ranarivelo and “Best Actor” – Paul J. Alessi.

Partners in Crime Films is proud to announce the Los Angeles premiere for a special feature film screening in association with the HollyShorts Film Festival at the Laemmle Sunset 5.

RECENT REVIEWS:

“Comes at us with an undertone that makes it relatable and compelling” –  Screen Rant

“It's fun, clever, witty and well-acted” – Ramas Screen

“All in all a telling slice-of-life, well worth-watching” – Cult Movies

“The movies pacing is excellent, it moves from scene to scene seamlessly” – Crave Online

“A relationship roller coaster ride with funny highs and dramatic lows.” – Movie Vine

Written and directed by Alex Ranarivelo, produced by Paul J. Alessi, and co-produced by Amie Barsky and Baptiste DeRivel, Knuckle Draggers takes a humorous but very real look at the state of modern male/female relationships. Knuckle Draggers is the relationship movie from a male perspective.

The story follows Ethan, an all around nice guy who gets dumped because he wasn’t able to provide his fiance' with the plush, stable life her friends were living. Desperate to get her back, he seeks help from his older brother Kyle, a tough talking sexist who seems to have a way with the ladies. Kyle gives Ethan a crash course on women and dating much to the disgust of some of Ethan’s female friends. Just when it seems Kyle’s misogynistic theories are about to prove themselves true, things take an unexpected turn and force Ethan, Kyle and their friends to reassess their views on relationships.

In the spirit of movies like Swingers and Brothers McMullen, Knuckle Draggers gives us a unique point of view, a timely message, and a lot of heart. Not another indie film about friends hanging out, Knuckle Draggers provokes questions about what modern couples want versus what they need, and how their needs may not have evolved much from those of our caveman ancestors.

Scottish actor Ross McCall heads a dynamic ensemble cast in the lead role of ‘Ethan’. His credits include the HBO miniseries ‘Band of Brothers’ and most recently ‘Crash’, the Starz TV series. Paul J. Alessi, plays ‘Kyle’, Ethan’s sexist outspoken brother. His credits include the Ten ‘til Noon and the TV series Desire. Omar Gooding plays Ethan’s best friend ‘Russell’. Omar’s credits include ‘Baby Boy’, the HBO series ‘Deadwood’ and he’s just joined the cast of the upcoming Jerry Bruckheimer TV series ‘Miami Trauma’. Amie Barsky plays ‘Patricia’, Ethan’s strong-minded female best friend. The film also includes Danielle Nicolet ‘The Starter Wife’, Justin Baldoni ‘Heroes’, Serah D’Laine ‘General Hospital’ and Jennifer Alden ‘Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen’.

Knuckle Draggers features a musical score by Austin Wintory, whose credits include the multiple award-winning Captain Abu Raed. A dynamic soundtrack accompanies the score, including tracks by J Mello & Dave Navarro, Tyler Hilton, Marching Band, and Jennifer Love-Hewitt & Sophie B. Hawkins.
See the trailer at  www.KnuckleDraggersTheMovie.com

Teen Choice Award Winners

ENTER THE DRAGON Š THE LEGEND CONTINUES! CRUNCHYROLL STREAMS EVEN MORE STAR
STUDDED TAI SENG ENTERTAINMENT DRAMAS AND MARTIAL ARTS THEATER COLLECTION
TITLES

Asian Celebrities Michael Chan Wai-man, Chan King Fung, Ng Cheuk Hai, Sit
Hoi Ki, Andy Lau Tak Wah, Bruce Le, Ti Lung, Chan Yuk Lin, Au Yeung Pui San,
Chen Sing, Delon Tam, Miu Kiu Wai, Leung Ka Yan, Bolo Yeung, Yeung Yi Appear
on the Number One Online Destination for Anime and Asian Entertainment

San Francisco, CA (June 22, 2009) ‹ Crunchyroll and Tai Seng Entertainment
streams new dramas and kung-fu action titles on the number one (1) online
destination for anime and asian content Š Crunchyroll!  More information can
be found at http://www.crunchyroll.com/publisher/TAI_SENG_ENTERTAINMENT.

Titles that are/will-be-shortly streaming for free on the highly popular and
legal site include:

·      THE ACADEMY (episodes 17-32)
·      THE RETURN OF THE CONDOR HEROES (episodes 26-50)
·      KUNG FU EMPEROR
·      THE INVINCIBLE KILLER
·      THE YOUNG BRUCE LEE

These titles are available to all Crunchyroll fans and members residing in
the U.S., American Samoa, U.S. Minor Outlying Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam and
Virgin Islands.

Title Synopsis:

THE ACADEMY (episodes 17-32)
Chung Lap Man (Ng Cheuk Hai, Ron) applies for the job of police constable to
take revenge on police training instructor Lee Man Sing (Miu Kiu Wai). Ken
Lee (Chan King Fung, Sammul) joins the police force for the attractive
salary. He has no idea that his instructor will be none other than his
ultimate enemy SING. MAN and KEN team up to fight against their prime enemy
SING.

Ho Fa (Yeung Yi, Tavia) is the temporary staff at the school kiosk. She
likes MAN, yet avoids him because of her shameful family background.
Meanwhile, KEN and his classmate Fiona Ma¹s (Sit Hoi Ki, Fiona) relationship
are also obstructed by their different family class.

The trainings are tough and intensive, but at the same time have made MAN
and HIU understand the true meaning of being a police officer. Their
relationship with SING has improved too. Unfortunately, SING, cannot live to
see them graduate.

http://www.crunchyroll.com/library/The_Academy?src=academytai

THE RETURN OF THE CONDOR HEROES (episodes 26-50)
In the Southern Song Dynasty, there is turmoil both externally and
internally in the country while infighting and killing among various sects
are common in the martial art world. The family Kwok Ching (Leung Ka Yan)
and Wong Yung (Au Yeung Pui San) lead a tranquil and peaceful life on Peach
Blossom Island. Fate has led CHING to meet Yeung Gor (Andy Lau Tak Wah), son
of his old friend Yeung Hong, when he returns to the mainland to look for
Yung¹s father Wong Yeuk Shi. CHING sympathizes with GOR since he is an
orphan, and brings him back to the Island.

GOR is not only naughty but also obstinate. He is finally sent by CHING to
learn kung fu at the Chung Yeung Monastery. One day, GOR breaks into the
forbidden land accidentally when he is hiding from punishment from his
master. Granny Suen comes to his rescue and takes him to an old tomb. There,
he meets the owner of the tomb, Dragon Girl (Chan Yuk Lin), and she teaches
him the supreme Ancient Tomb kung fu and together they practice the Maiden
Sutra, which enables them to read each other¹s mind. They fall in love, yet
the teacher-and-student love is not accepted in the secular world and they
are forced to separate after a series of mishap.

GOR meets Wong Yeuk Shi, the East Infidel, Au Yeung Fung, the West Venom,
and Hung Chat Gung, the North Beggar, one after the other and succeeds to
learn a lot of unrivalled kung fu from them. Later, he tries his best to
look for Dragon Girl and to find out the cause of his father¹s death.

Http://www.crunchyroll.com/libraryThe_Return_of_the_Condor_Heroes?src=return
ofthecondortai

KUNG FU EMPEROR
Shaw Brothers stars TI LUNG (A Better Tomorrow), CHEN SING (Death Ring), and
master kick fighter DELON TAM (Leg Fighter) star in this epic kung fu saga!
As the aging Ching emperor approaches his death, his will that names his
successor is hidden in a special room full of deadly traps and even deadlier
guards.  To gain the throne, Wang, the Emperor¹s fourth son, must learn
Shaolin kung fu from the monks so that he can outfight the guards who want
the crown for themselves. With stunning fights and nonstop action, KUNG FU
EMPEROR is the best of old style fighting!

http://www.crunchyroll.com/library/Martial_Arts_Theater?src=kungfuemperortai

THE INVINCIBLE KILLER
Desperate to put his triad days behind him, Wang Chun (Michael Chan Wai-man)
decides to leave the gang and to lead a normal life.  But gang leader Lo
sees Wang¹s actions as an act of betrayal and soon frames him for a series
of violent murders committed by Lo himself.  Wang vows to clear his name and
stop Lo from causing more bloodshed. With fierce fighting and outbursts of
violence, THE INVINCIBLE KILLER is a turbo-charged action thrill ride!

www.crunchyroll.com/library/Martia_Arts_Theater?src=invinciblekillertai

THE YOUNG BRUCE LEE
BRUCE LE and BOLO YEUNG (Enter the Dragon) star in this exciting chronicle
of Bruce Lee¹s early years.  See the legend in action as he battles rival
kung fu schools and fights a powerful snake fist master in order to obtain
his dream of becoming the best of the best.  With exciting fights, THE YOUNG
BRUCE LEE is a fitting memorial to the world¹s greatest martial artist.

http://www.crunchyroll.com/library/Martial_Arts_Theater?src=youngbruceleetai



About Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is an online video service and community that offers full-length
episodes and movies of the very best in Japanese anime and Asian
entertainment. Crunchyroll's content is provided by Asian media leaders
including TV TOKYO, Shueisha, d-rights, Fuji Creative Corporation, Pony
Canyon, Yomiuri Telecasting Corporation, Toei Animation, Gonzo, Munhwa
Broadcasting Corporation America, and many others.

Crunchyroll was founded in June 2006 and has offices in San Francisco and
Tokyo. Crunchyroll is a pioneer and innovator in the Japanese anime industry
and the only video service in the world to offer hit programs like NARUTO
SHIPPUDEN, GINTAMA and many others online to its subscribers within one hour
of its Japanese broadcast. Crunchyroll is a member of the Association of
Japanese Animations (AJA) and the Licensing International Merchandisers
Association (LIMA) and is funded by leading venture capital firm, Venrock.

Here's the clip of Halle Berry and Jamie Foxx kissing from Spike TVs Guys Choice.

Click on link to embed
http://www.spike.com/video/halle-barry-jamie/3187954

ATOM.COM LOCKS UP ANDY DICK WITH MORE “HOUSE ARREST”

SEASON TWO OF ORIGINAL WEB TALK SHOW

 “HOUSE ARREST WITH ANDY DICK” PREMIERES TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2009

-------

Celebrity Guests Include Bob Odenkirk, Tom Green, Adam Carolla And Others

-------

Premiere Episode Debuts Today At AndyDick.Atom.com

The snarky Webisodes feature comedian Dick interviewing his celebrity pals in his home, where he is detained for drug-related charges.  

To pass time during his house arrest, comedian Andy Dick set up a no-frills talk show that includes a house band,

researcher and his celebrity friends

CLICK BELOW PHOTO TO WATCH VIDEO

CRUNCHYROLL STREAMS MORE STAR STUDDED TAI SENG ENTERTAINMENT DRAMAS AND
MARTIAL ARTS THEATER COLLECTION TITLES

Asian Celebrities Au Yeung Pui San, Chan Yuk Lin, Leung Ka Yan, Ng Cheuk
Hai, Sammo Hung, Sit Hoi Ki, Carter Wong, Wong Yue, Yeung Yi,  Appear on the
Number One Online Destination for Anime and Asian Entertainment

San Francisco, CA (June 15, 2009) ‹Tai Seng Entertainment brings a star
studded list of dramas and martial arts with more new titles streaming on
the number one (1) online destination for anime and asian content Š
Crunchyroll!  More information can be found at
http://www.crunchyroll.com/publisher/TAI_SENG_ENTERTAINMENT.

Titles that are/will-be-shortly streaming for free on the highly popular and
legal site include:

·      THE ACADEMY (episodes 1-16)
·      THE RETURN OF THE CONDOR HEROES (episodes 1-25)
·      THE YOUNG AVENGER
·      MAGNIFICENT FIST
·      FILTHY GUY

These titles are available to all Crunchyroll fans and members residing in
the U.S., American Samoa, U.S. Minor Outlying Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam and
Virgin Islands.

Title Synopsis:

THE ACADEMY (episodes 1-16)
Chung Lap Man (Ng Cheuk Hai, Ron) applies for the job of police constable to
take revenge on police training instructor Lee Man Sing (Miu Kiu Wai). Ken
Lee (Chan King Fung, Sammul) joins the police force for the attractive
salary. He has no idea that his instructor will be none other than his
ultimate enemy SING. MAN and KEN team up to fight against their prime enemy
SING.

Ho Fa (Yeung Yi, Tavia) is the temporary staff at the school kiosk. She
likes MAN, yet avoids him because of her shameful family background.
Meanwhile, KEN and his classmate Fiona Ma¹s (Sit Hoi Ki, Fiona) relationship
are also obstructed by their different family class.

The trainings are tough and intensive, but at the same time have made MAN
and HIU understand the true meaning of being a police officer. Their
relationship with SING has improved too. Unfortunately, SING, cannot live to
see them graduateŠ
http://www.crunchyroll.com/library/The_Academy?src=academytai

THE RETURN OF THE CONDOR HEROES (episodes 1-25)
In the Southern Song Dynasty, there is turmoil both externally and
internally in the country while infighting and killing among various sects
are common in the martial art world. The family Kwok Ching (Leung Ka Yan)
and Wong Yung (Au Yeung Pui San) lead a tranquil and peaceful life on Peach
Blossom Island. Fate has led CHING to meet Yeung Gor (Andy Lau Tak Wah), son
of his old friend Yeung Hong, when he returns to the mainland to look for
Yung¹s father Wong Yeuk Shi. CHING sympathizes with GOR since he is an
orphan, and brings him back to the Island.

GOR is not only naughty but also obstinate. He is finally sent by CHING to
learn kung fu at the Chung Yeung Monastery. One day, GOR breaks into the
forbidden land accidentally when he is hiding from punishment from his
master. Granny Suen comes to his rescue and takes him to an old tomb. There,
he meets the owner of the tomb, Dragon Girl (Chan Yuk Lin), and she teaches
him the supreme Ancient Tomb kung fu and together they practice the Maiden
Sutra, which enables them to read each other¹s mind. They fall in love, yet
the teacher-and-student love is not accepted in the secular world and they
are forced to separate after a series of mishap.

GOR meets Wong Yeuk Shi, the East Infidel, Au Yeung Fung, the West Venom,
and Hung Chat Gung, the North Beggar, one after the other and succeeds to
learn a lot of unrivalled kung fu from them. Later, he tries his best to
look for Dragon Girl and to find out the cause of his father¹s deathŠ
http://www.crunchyroll.com/library/The_Return_of_the_Condor_Heroes?src=retur
nofthecondortai

THE YOUNG AVENGER
Wong Yue, star of many Shaw Brothers kung fu classics, is the titled
character in this electrifying film.  Follow the mischievous and sometimes
dangerous escapades of Fu Yua (Wong), a young funeral parlor worker who is
also a martial arts wonder boy.  THE YOUNG AVENGER is high-octane kung fu
action from the great opening credits sequence to the awesome final fight!
http://www.crunchyroll.com/library/Martial_Arts_Theater?src=martialartstheat
ertai

MAGNIFICENT FIST
Popular kung fu leading man Carter Wong stars in this action thriller.  When
a group of Japanese hoodlums take over a small town in North Eastern China
by force, it¹s up to a band of renegade martial artists to stop this gang of
ruthless criminals.  MAGNIFICENT FIST is magnificent fist fighting action
from start to finish!
http://www.crunchyroll.com/library/Martial_Arts_Theater?src=magnificentfistt
ai

FILTHY GUY
The great Sammo Hung (CBS¹ hit TV series MARTIAL LAW) stars in this kung fu
classic, as a poor village orphan nicknamed ³Filthy Guy² working for the
local landlord Chan.  When Chan gets harassed by his ruthless rivals, he and
his son turn to ³Filthy Guy² for help and kung fu lessons.  They then take
on the villains together with their newly acquired martial arts skills.
With Sammo at his best, FILTHY GUY is good, clean fighting all the way from
start to finish!
http://www.crunchyroll.com/library/Martial_Arts_Theater?src=filthyguy


About Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is an online video service and community that offers full-length
episodes and movies of the very best in Japanese anime and Asian
entertainment. Crunchyroll's content is provided by Asian media leaders
including TV TOKYO, Shueisha, d-rights, Fuji Creative Corporation, Pony
Canyon, Yomiuri Telecasting Corporation, Toei Animation, Gonzo, Munhwa
Broadcasting Corporation America, and many others.

Crunchyroll was founded in June 2006 and has offices in San Francisco and
Tokyo. Crunchyroll is a pioneer and innovator in the Japanese anime industry
and the only video service in the world to offer hit programs like NARUTO
SHIPPUDEN, GINTAMA and many others online to its subscribers within one hour
of its Japanese broadcast. Crunchyroll is a member of the Association of
Japanese Animations (AJA) and the Licensing International Merchandisers
Association (LIMA) and is funded by leading venture capital firm, Venrock.


The statements made in this press release that are not historical facts are
"forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are based on
current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and
uncertainties. The Company cautions readers of this press release that a
number of important factors could cause Crunchyroll.com¹s actual future
results to differ materially from those expressed in any such
forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation,
product delays, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and
industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, maintenance of
relationships with key personnel, vendors and third-party developers,
international economic and political conditions. The Company may change its
intention, belief or expectation, at any time and without notice, based upon
any changes in such factors, in the Company's assumptions or otherwise. The
Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any
forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date
hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Spike TV Announces 2009 'Guys Choice' Winners

THIRD ANNUAL SHOW PAYS HOMAGE TO THE LORDS OF THE KINGDOM OF TESTOSTERONE PREMIERES ON SPIKE TV SUNDAY, JUNE 21 AT 10:00 PM, ET/PT

Brad Pitt, Edward Norton And David Fincher Electrify Audience As "Fight Club" Is Inducted Into "Guy Movie Hall Of Fame," Receiving the Award From Mel Gibson

Clint Eastwood Receives "Brass Balls Award"; Mickey Rourke Named "Guy Of The Year"

Show Features Performances And Appearances By Halle Berry, Jamie Foxx, Robert Downey, Jr., Ben Stiller, Quentin Tarantino, Mel Gibson, Jason Statham, Dwyane Wade, Hayden Panettiere, Jack McBrayer, Triumph The Insult Comic Dog, Metallica, Jonah Hill, Sacha Baron Cohen, Malin Akerman, Michael Irvin, Mila Kunis, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Judd Apatow, Asher Roth, Rainn Wilson And Many More

To View Exclusive Footage From "Guys Choice" Log-On to www.spike.com

The show broke rules one and two about "Fight Club," as the cult classic was inducted into the "Guy Movie Hall of Fame" with stars Brad Pitt and Edward Norton and director David Fincher on hand to accept the honor from Mel Gibson, who kicked off the show with a rousing speech reminiscent of his Academy Award winning movie Braveheart.
 

Also on hand was cinematic icon and original badass Clint Eastwood, who accepted the "Brass Balls Award" for his lifetime of legendary work as an actor and filmmaker.
 

Mickey Rourke was the recipient of the night's top honor, as the Oscar nominated star of "The Wrestler" was voted "Guy of the Year" by Spike TV viewers, beating out President Barack Obama in the process.
 

In addition, Eddie Van Halen made a rare public appearance, and was brought to tears as he accepted the first annual "Guitar God Award" for his years of shredding on the six stringed axe. And, seven years after being kissed by Adrien Brody at the Oscars, Halle Berry turned the tables on the boys, and had a very special moment with Jamie Foxx, who was on hand to present her with the "Decade of Hotness Award."
 

Spike TV's "Guys Choice" also included a performance by hip hop impresario Asher Roth, and appearances by Robert Downey, Jr., Quentin Tarantino, Jason Statham, Dwyane Wade, Hayden Panettiere, Jack McBrayer, Triumph The Insult Comic Dog, Metallica, Jonah Hill, Sacha Baron Cohen, Malin Akerman, Michael Irvin, Mila Kunis, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Judd Apatow, Rainn Wilson and many more.
 

  A full list of winners is included below:


  GUY OF THE YEAR         MAN KIND AWARD           BRASS BALLS
  Mickey Rourke           Judd Apatow              Clint Eastwood

  BALLSIEST BAND          FUNNIEST M.F.            GUY MOVIE HALL OF FAME 
  Metallica               Sacha Baron Cohen        "Fight Club"

  BIGGEST ASS KICKER      SEXIEST SIREN            MOST UNSTOPPABLE JOCK
  Jason Statham           Katy Perry               LeBron James

  COMEDY SAVANT           MOST DANGEROUS MAN       DECADE OF HOTNESS
  Jason Segel             Brock Lesnar             Halle Berry

  HOT N' FRESH            HOTTEST 'MILA'           BEST BUSH
  Malin Akerman           Mila Kunis               Will Ferrell

  FEMME FATALE            DEADLIEST WARRIOR        BIG MEN ON CAMPUS
  Angelina Jolie          Christian Bale           Florida Gators

  GUITAR GOD              BEST UNSUPPORTED ROLE
  Eddie Van Halen         Kate Winslet

  SEXIEST ATHLETE         TOP FANTASY LEAGUER
  Biba Golic              Dwyane Wade

  HOTTEST GIRL ON THE PLANET              MOST MAN-TICIPATED MOVIE
  Megan Fox                               Inglorious Basterds

  OUTSTANDING LITERARY ACHIEVEMENT        PLAY OF THE YEAR
  Russell Brand                           Ben Roethilsberger/Santonio Holmes

To view exclusive footage, interviews, behind-the-scenes access, and more from the "Guys Choice," log-on to www.spike.com
 

The official sponsors of Spike TV's "Guys Choice" are - AT&T, Corona, Degree V12, Pizza Hut, and the U.S. Army.
 

Casey Patterson, Carol Donovan and Beth McCarthy-Miller will serve as executive producers.
 

Spike TV is available in 98 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. A unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , MTV Networks is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. Spike TV's Internet address is www.spike.com.
 

Source: Spike TV

Web Site: http://www.spike.com/
 

HOLLYWOOD’S BIGGEST STARS GET SET TO PRESENT AT

THE “2009 MTV MOVIE AWARDS”

DENZEL WASHINGTON, CAMERON DIAZ, RYAN REYNOLDS,

WILL FERRELL, VANESSA HUDGENS, LEIGHTON MEESTER,

JONAH HILL AND LIL WAYNE FIRST IN GROWING LIST OF CELEBS TO HAND OUT THIS YEAR’S GOLDEN POPCORN

 -----

Andy Samberg Hosts the “2009 MTV Movie Awards”

LIVE on Sunday, May 31^st at 9P.M./8P.M. C

------

NEW YORK, May 11, 2009 – Instead of a presenters’ break for an on-stage “smoke,” this year’s “2009 MTV Movie Awards” promises to get movie fans high on star power alone! Sure to make movie-lovers and celeb-watchers everywhere green with golden popcorn envy, a bevy of the hottest stars in Hollywood are confirmed to hand out awards as Denzel Washington, Cameron Diaz, Ryan Reynolds, Will Ferrell, Vanessa Hudgens , Leighton Meester, Jonah Hill  and Lil Wayne are the first to be announced in the growing list of presenters. With a stage this hot, viewers can expect another year of incredible pairings and extreme moments. They join previously revealed performer Eminem, who will take the stage to perform music from his anticipated new album Relapse, available May 19, and give one of the captivating and unconventional live MTV performances fans live for. Hosted by Andy Samberg, the “2009 MTV Movie Awards” will be broadcast LIVE from the Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City, CA on Sunday, May 31^st at 9p.m./8p.m.C.

The “2009 MTV Movie Awards” marks the first year in which the final nominees were decided on by the fans. A movie megabattle between devotees of “Twilight” and “Slumdog Millionaire,” both movies are neck-in-neck as each film has nominations in six award categories. MTV will up the cinematic fun quotient this year by debuting the two new categories “BEST SONG FROM A MOVIE” and “BEST WTF MOMENT.” Fans will get the chance to vote on their favorite movie soundtrack hit and pick year’s most jaw-dropping “WTF” movie moment that left audiences speechless. Viewers can decide the golden popcorn destiny of their favorite flicks by visiting MovieAwards.MTV.com (www.MovieAwards.MTV.com) before May 27 to vote for their favorite film moments and actors but the category of “BEST MOVIE” will be a fight to the end as voting for favorite film of the year will remain open throughout the LIVE show. 

MovieAwards.MTV.com is the official site for the “MTV Movie Awards” where fans can visit to vote and stay to check out show promos starring Andy Samberg and some of today’s hottest celebs, get up-to-date info and watch MTV News nominee interviews.  During the voting window fans can also head over to facebook.com/mtv, myspace.com/mtv, Flixster and IMDB.com for a special “Movie Awards” social module that will enable them to cast their votes, take polls, watch promo videos, get special news and tweets about the show and special links to “Movie Awards” contests.

Mark Burnett serves as Executive Producer for the “2009 MTV MOVIE AWARDS.” Audrey Morrissey is Co-Executive Producer.  Lee Rolontz is Executive Producer for MTV, Garrett English is Executive in charge for MTV and Jane Mun serves as Producer.  Robin Reinhardt-Locke is Celebrity Talent Executive.

Official sponsors of the “2009 MTV MOVIE AWARDS” include Coca-Cola^®, Kia Motors, Nikon, Orbit^® gum, Taco Bell^®, T-Mobile USA, and Venus. Orbit is a registered trademark of the Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company.

About MTV:
MTV is the dynamic, vibrant experiment at the intersection of music, creativity and youth culture.  For over 27 years, MTV has evolved, challenged the norm, and detonated boundaries -- giving each new generation a creative outlet and voice that entertains, informs and unites on every platform and screen.  On-air, MTV is the number one rated full-day ad-supported cable network for P12-24.  Online, MTV.com averaged 8.5 million monthly unique visitors during the first quarter of 2009 -- up +6% from Q4/2008 and up +6% year-over-year. Total video streams for the first quarter of 2009 increased 21% over the same time period last year.  And MTV’s successful sibling networks MTV2, mtvU and MTV Tr3s each deliver unprecedented customized content, super-serving music fans, college students and young American Latinos like no one else.   MTV is part of MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms.  Wanna know more?  Come on in… www.mtvpress.com

About Mark Burnett Productions:
Mark Burnett is a leading executive producer for primetime television, cable and the internet, and has produced over 1,100 hours of television programming which regularly airs in over 70 countries around the world.  Mark Burnett (President of Mark Burnett Productions) has revolutionized television with continuing hits such as Survivor (CBS), The Apprentice (NBC), Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader? (FOX), which is currently being produced in 52 countries, and the daytime syndicated hit Martha.  In the summers of 2007 and 2008, MBP entered the world of award shows, when Mark Burnett served as executive producer for the MTV Movie Awards.  Since 2001, MBP has garnered a total of 51 Emmy nominations with Mark receiving 2 wins, along with 4 People’s Choice Awards.  Mark Burnett has been named one of the most influential people in the world by TIME magazine and named TV Guide’s most valuable player.  He has won both BRANDWEEK’S Marketer of the Year Award and the prestigious ROSE D’OR FRAPA Format Award.  In 2007, Mark Burnett was inducted into the Broadcasting

and Cable Hall of Fame. In 2008, Mark was honored with the announcement that he is to receive a star on the Hollywood walk of fame.  In 2009, MBP has garnered new series, including Shark Tank (ABC), StarMaker (MTV), Bully Beatdown (MTV), How’d You Get So Rich (TV Land), Expedition (History), Wedding Day (TNT), Toughest Cowboy (Spike) as well as new pilots for FOX and CBS.

LA Opera and Classical KUSC 91.5fm
Collaborate on Third Season of "LA Opera On Air"

International Broadcast Series of Performances Recorded Live at the
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion to Air Saturdays, May 9 through July 4, 2009

WFMT Radio Network also to Syndicate "LA Opera on Air"
Internationally Beginning Saturday, June 27, 2009

Series of Eight Broadcasts to Include
First Two Installments of Company's First Ring Cycle

(Los Angeles, CA) May 6, 2009 - Plácido Domingo, LA Opera's Eli and Edythe Broad General Director, announced that the Company will collaborate with Classical KUSC 91.5fm for a third consecutive season of "LA Opera on Air," a broadcast series of LA Opera performances recorded live at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. The weekly series, which begins at 10:30am on Saturday, May 9, 2009, with Giacomo Puccini's Il Trittico, will feature six operas from LA Opera's 2008/09 season, including the first two installments, Das Rheingold and Die Walküre, of the Company's first ever presentation of Wagner's Ring cycle. The series will also include a September 2007 performance of the Verdi Requiem and a February 2007 performance of Kurt Weill's Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny. (LA Opera's EuroArts DVD of the latter received Grammy awards earlier this year for Best Classical Album and Best Opera Recording). The series will be broadcast locally on KUSC at 91.5fm and will also be streamed on www.kusc.org. "LA Opera on Air" was made possible by generous grants from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, spearheaded by the efforts of Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky.

"I have always believed that it is very important for us to make opera accessible to as many people as possible," said Mr. Domingo. "'LA Opera on Air' gives us the ability to showcase our exciting performances for a diverse and wide-ranging radio audience that may not otherwise be able to experience our work in the theater. I hope that 'LA Opera on Air' will help us cultivate new fans for opera by giving them a chance to experience the drama and passion of this classic art form. I also hope that opera aficionados around the world will look forward to hearing the unusually diverse programming that makes LA Opera's artistic identity unique."

The Saturday morning broadcast series on Classical KUSC 91.5fm begins with Giacomo Puccini's Il Trittico on May 9, 2009, and will continue with Howard Shore's The Fly, on May 16. The series will take a one-week hiatus on May 23, when Classical KUSC will program a live broadcast of the Grand Finals Concert of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, then will resume with Giacomo Puccini's Madama Butterfly on May 30, Kurt Weill's Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny on June 6, Richard Wagner's Das Rheingold on June 13, Wagner's Die Walküre on June 20, Walter Braunfels' The Birds on June 27 and the Verdi Requiem on July 4. The Fly and the Verdi Requiem are both conducted by Mr. Domingo, with the remaining six broadcasts conducted by LA Opera's Richard Seaver Music Director James Conlon. All of the broadcasts will begin at 10:30am (Pacific Time).

The "LA Opera on Air" broadcasts will subsequently be syndicated throughout the United States and internationally on the WFMT Radio Network beginning on Saturday, June 27, 2009.

Classical KUSC is the largest non-profit classical music station in the country, and the most listened to public radio station in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. The station is dedicated to preserving classical music as a living art. Located in downtown Los Angeles, Classical KUSC uses digital transmission technology to broadcast commercial-free uninterrupted classical performances. The non-profit, listener-supported station has been broadcasting for over 60 years. The station is a broadcast service of the University of Southern California at 91.5(FM) in Los Angeles and Santa Clarita; 88.5 KPSC in Palm Springs; 91.l KDSC in Thousand Oaks, and 88.7 KQSC in Santa Barbara. For more information, please visit www.kusc.org.

Celebrating its 22nd Season, Los Angeles Opera has become, under the leadership of Eli and Edythe Broad General Director Plácido Domingo and Richard Seaver Music Director James Conlon, the nation's fourth largest opera company and a renowned producer of works from the classical and contemporary repertoires. The coming 2009/10 Season includes Donizetti's beloved L'Elisir d'Amore featuring the Company debuts of tenor Giuseppe Filianoti and bass Ruggero Raimondi, the Company premiere of Handel's Bajazet starring Plácido Domingo, Rossini's The Barber of Seville featuring Juan Diego Flórez, Joyce DiDonato and Nathan Gunn, the U.S. premiere of Schreker's The Stigmatized (Die Gezeichneten) and the final two installments - Siegfried and Götterdämmerung - of a new Achim Freyer production of Wagner's monumental four-opera Ring cycle. The regular season will be followed by three complete Ring cycles (the first ever presented in Los Angeles) from May 29 through June 26, 2010, celebrated with the citywide Ring Festival LA. For more information, please visit www.laopera.com.

Rolex is the Official Timepiece of LA Opera
Silversea is the Official Cruise Line of LA Opera

"LA Opera on Air"
Broadcast Schedule on Classical KUSC 91.5 FM and the WFMT Radio Network

Il Trittico
KUSC: Saturday, May 9, 10:30am
WFMT: Saturday, June 27*
Bringing fresh insight to Puccini's trilogy of one-act operas are two Academy Award-winning filmmakers. William Friedkin directs Il Tabarro and Suor Angelica and Woody Allen makes his opera debut directing Gianni Schicchi. Il Tabarro ("The Cloak"), the story of a passionate love triangle that leads to a tragic end, features baritone Mark Delavan, tenor Salvatore Licitra and soprano Anja Kampe. Suor Angelica ("Sister Angelica") tells the heart-rending tale of a cloistered nun with a worldly secret. Soprano Sondra Radvanovsky sings the title role, joined by mezzo-soprano Larissa Diadkova. Gianni Schicchi, a fast-paced comedy about relatives squabbling for an inheritance, features baritone Thomas Allen in the title role along with soprano Laura Tatulescu and tenor Saimir Pirgu.
Conducted by James Conlon and sung in Italian. Estimated running time: four hours.

The Fly
KUSC: Saturday, May 16, 10:30am
WFMT: Saturday, July 4*
LA Opera commissioned this unique new opera created by Oscar-winning composer Howard Shore (Lord of the Rings) based on the original 1957 George Langelaan short story as well as David Cronenberg's 1986 film, with a libretto by the Tony Award-winning playwright David Henry Hwang (M. Butterfly). In its metamorphosis into an opera, this dark romantic tragedy presents a Kafkaesque meditation on man's uneasy relationship with technology. Bass-baritone Daniel Okulitch stars as the doomed scientist Seth Brundle, with mezzo-soprano Ruxandra Donose as his girlfriend Veronica Quaife.
Conducted by Plácido Domingo and sung in English. Estimated running time: three hours.

Madama Butterfly
KUSC: Saturday, May 30, 10:30am
Composer Giacomo Puccini described Madama Butterfly as his most "deeply felt and imaginative opera." Soprano Liping Zhang, who made an indelible impression in her LA Opera debut, takes the part of the impressionable teenage geisha who commits herself to a man unworthy of her loyalty. The acclaimed Metropolitan Opera star Franco Farina appears as the callous Lieutenant Pinkerton.
Conducted by James Conlon and sung in Italian. Estimated running time: three hours.

Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny
KUSC: Saturday, June 6, 10:30am
WFMT: Saturday, August 1*
From composer Kurt Weill and playwright Bertolt Brecht, the creators of The Threepenny Opera, comes a savage and lyrical satire told in a highly entertaining blend of opera and raucous music hall songs. The haunting score crosses over from opera to cabaret to Broadway including ragtime, jazz and the classic pop hit "Moon of Alabama." The production, which stars Tony-Award winners Audra McDonald and Patti LuPone along with tenor Anthony Dean Griffey, was released on DVD by EuroArts which won Grammy Awards for Best Classical Album and Best Opera Recording earlier this year.
Conducted by James Conlon and sung in English. Estimated running time: two hours, fifteen minutes.

Das Rheingold
KUSC: Saturday, June 13, 10:30am
WFMT: Saturday, July 11*
Gods, goddesses, giants, and dwarves struggle to be lords of the ring, but as Wagner's mammoth Der Ring des Nibelungen unfolds, the ring's curse unleashes its vengeance. As the king of the gods, Vitalij Kowaljow, a powerful Ukrainian bass, is a "refined Wotan, expressive and subtle" (Los Angeles Times). Wotan's insistent wife Fricka is Michelle DeYoung a "remarkably powerful mezzo" (Opera Today). Also featured are Arnold Bezuyen as Loge, Gordon Hawkins as Alberich and Graham Clark as Mime.
Conducted by James Conlon and sung in German. Estimated running time: three hours.

Die Walküre
KUSC: Saturday, June 20, 10:30am
WFMT: Saturday, July 18*
As Wagner's epic Ring cycle continues, Wotan, king of the gods, hopes that his mortal son Siegmund might help him regain the ring. But Siegmund's adulterous and incestuous love for his twin sister Sieglinde infuriates Fricka, goddess of marriage. Brünnhilde (the titular Valkyrie, one of Wotan's divine warrior maiden daughters) attempts to protect Siegmund, but her bold disobedience leads to a terrible punishment. Starring Plácido Domingo and soprano Anja Kampe, "the definitive Sieglinde and Siegmund of this century's first decade" (The Washington Post). A world-celebrated cast includes Linda Watson (Brünnhilde), Michelle DeYoung (Fricka), Vitalij Kowaljow (Wotan) and Eric Halfvarson (Hunding).
Conducted by James Conlon and sung in German. Estimated running time: five hours.

The Birds
KUSC: Saturday, June 27, 10:30am
WFMT: Saturday, July 25*
LA Opera has won acclaim for its ongoing exploration of long forgotten masterpieces by the lost generation of composers affected by the Holocaust. German composer Walter Braunfels (1882-1954) freely adapted the classic Aristophanes comedy The Birds to create what he described as an "airy play of imagination." "It requires but a few seconds of the opera's prelude to discover why audiences in Munich fell in love with this score... [James Conlon] conducted a marvelous performance Saturday, and the orchestra sounded radiant" (Los Angeles Times). Soprano Désirée Rancatore performs the high-flying coloratura role of the Nightingale. Winner of the 2007 Richard Tucker Award, tenor Brandon Jovanovich plays the role of Good Hope, with baritone James Johnson as his traveling companion Loyal Friend and baritone Martin Gantner as the King of the Birds.
Conducted by James Conlon and sung in German. Estimated running time: three hours.

Verdi Requiem
KUSC: Saturday, July 4, 10:30am
WFMT: Saturday, August 8*
Plácido Domingo conducts LA Opera's first ever performance of the Verdi Requiem, dedicating this concert to the memories of tenor Luciano Pavarotti and Edgar Baitzel, the Company's late Chief Operating Officer. Soprano Adrianne Pieczonka, mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe, tenor Arturo Chacón-Cruz and bass René Pape make up the world-class quartet of soloists, joined by the Los Angeles Opera Chorus under the direction of Chorus Master Grant Gershon.
Conducted by Plácido Domingo and sung in Latin. Estimated running time: 90 minutes.

*Broadcast dates and times on the WFMT Radio Network vary in differing media markets; check local listings.

Nerdcore is so very proud to present one of the coolest ideas to hit the music scene since sliced vinyl: World-renowned turntablist Kid Koala will be playing two shows in Los Angeles this weekend, but there's a catch:   QUIET Work Sunday, April 26 5 to 10pm Gallery Nucleus 210 East Main St Alhambra, CA 91801   Special 5-hour set of quiet tunes to work to (draw, write, knit - whatever, as long as it's silent)   Bake shop by Corinne.   No dancing allowed. $5 admission includes a cup of hot chocolate and a pencil. LOUD Party Monday, April 27 Doors open at 9pm Opening acts: DJ R-Rated DJ Stereotype Bordello Bar 901 E. First St. Los Angeles, CA   Get down and shake your thang!   Dancing Scratching Pillow Fight Raffle $10 admission

Crunchyroll, the #1 online destination for Anime and Asian entertainment,
has just launched one of the most highly anticipated animes (Japanese
Animation) titles that has the Italian theme quite in mind-RISTORANTE
PARADISO.  This title is now streaming for FREE (fully legally and licensed)
on #1 online site for asian entertainment content to the largest
international online community (over five million passionate fans
worldwide)-Crunchyroll (www.crunchyroll.com <http://www.crunchyroll.com> ).

I am requesting for your outlet¹s participation in a mutually beneficial
cross promotional online partnership beginning in late April 2009 and
carrying through mid/end May 2009 with no monetary investment.
 
  WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE
* Banner trade on the Crunchyroll title site/page
* Visibility of your brand to over 5 million unique worldwide fans
   WHAT WE ARE REQUESTING
* Banner trade on your homepage for 4 weeks
* E-Blast to your members

Title Synopsis:
Italy, Rome

When she was a child, Nicoletta was taken in by her grandmother so that her
mother could remarry. Now grown up, she leaves everything in the countryside
behind to visit her mother and  her mother's second husband, a ristorante
owner. To her surprise, her stepfather did not know his wife had a daughter!

A ristorante she had previously visited, casetta dell'orso is hosted by a
cast of dreamy, cool gentlemen who all happen to wear glasses. This curious
restaurant's staff include cameriere (waiters)  Claudio, Luciano, and Vito,
GiGi the sommelier, and chefs Furio and Teo. Because women find the staff so
enchanting, business is bustling and reservations are extremely hard to come
by at this little Roman treasure.

Amongst all this, Nicoletta decides, on a whim, to work at the ristorante.
Gradually, she begins to become interested in one of the gentlemen...

Delicious food and dreamy gentlemen await at the ristorante, casetta
dell'orso. For everyone who works there, a tender connection to the hearts
of each visitor is spun, and the curtain raises on a story about these
first-rate Italian gentlemen in spectacles.

Joint AFTRA and SAG National Board of Directors Approves New Commercials Contracts for Ratification

LOS ANGELES AND NEW YORK (April 18, 2009)—Meeting by videoconference plenary in Los Angeles and New York, the Joint SAG-AFTRA National Board today voted unanimously to approve and recommend to members, new three-year successor agreements to the 2006 AFTRA Television and Radio Commercials Contracts and the 2006 Screen Actors Guild Television Commercials Contract.

The proposed agreements, which cover performers working in commercials made for and reused on television, radio, the Internet, and new media, will net a three-year increase in payments to performers totaling an estimated $36 million, including approximately $21 million in increased contributions to the SAG Pension & Health and AFTRA Health & Retirement plans. The total combined value of the AFTRA and SAG contracts is projected at more than $2.9 billion for working performers, including actors, singers, dancers, choreographers, stunt persons, and extras.

Additionally, the new contracts contain an agreement in principle outlining terms for a pilot study for the purpose of testing the Gross Rating Points (GRP) model of restructuring compensation to performers as proposed by Booz & Co. The two-year study will be conducted by a jointly retained consultant engaged by the unions and the industry. The study will be paid for by grants from Screen Actors Guild-Industry Advancement and Cooperative Fund (IACF) and the AFTRA-Industry Cooperative Fund (AICF).

The unions also successfully established a first-ever payment structure in commercials for the Internet and other new media platforms. The unions established jurisdiction over commercial work made for the Internet in 2000, and new media formats in 2006. The new payment structure goes into effect in the third year of the contract.

The referendum will be mailed to the members of both unions next week (dual SAG and AFTRA members will receive one ballot) with a return date in mid-May. Results will be announced at that time.

Following the vote, AFTRA National President Roberta Reardon and AFTRA Chair of the Joint Negotiating Committee said: “Our new agreement is a major achievement in any economy, but it is especially crucial for union members working to make ends meet in today’s difficult marketplace. I applaud the vision and hard work of the joint committee who worked together to win increases both in performers’ minimum compensation and in employer contributions to our health and pension plans, and who successfully preserved Class A payments so critically important to our members around the country.”

Screen Actors Guild National President Alan Rosenberg said: “I am pleased and gratified to have achieved these gains and to recommend this agreement for ratification.  I congratulate all of the parties, and particularly the co-chairs, committee members and staff on the remarkable gains they achieved for actors across the country.”

“It’s a solid agreement with meaningful gains,” said Screen Actors Guild Chair of the Joint Negotiating Committee Sue-Anne Morrow. “There are significant improvements in compensation and benefits for union commercial actors and it gives the industry, including our members, a measure of financial certainty in an uncertain economy. It also guarantees advertisers continued access to the finest actors in the world on whose talent their brand success often rests. It’s a win for actors, a win for the industry, and a win for consumers.”

Screen Actors Guild Chief Negotiator John McGuire, a veteran of more than 10 separate commercials contracts negotiations said: “This is an agreement we can all be proud of and I look forward to ratification by the members of Screen Actors Guild and AFTRA.  I commend the negotiating committee chairs, co-chairs, and members, along with my colleagues Ray Rodriguez, Screen Actors Guild’s Deputy National Executive Director of Contracts, and Mathis Dunn, AFTRA’s Chief Negotiator.” 

“This is a successful conclusion to a challenging negotiation, conducted during a difficult economic and technological time in the industry.  As always, that success rests with the members of our joint committee, our staff and our counterparts at the Joint Policy Committee. Together, we served the interests of actors and the industry,” McGuire added.

AFTRA Assistant National Executive Director Mathis L. Dunn, Jr., who served as AFTRA Chief Negotiator, noted: “I commend all of our union members who participated in the many educational, informational, and wages and working conditions meetings leading up to these negotiations. They delivered a clear message to our joint negotiating committee on their priority issues. I am proud to say that we delivered on these priorities and much more. The agreement will enhance the careers of all working performers today, and protect future generations of union members as technology and consumer tastes shift in the radically changing world of new media.”

Highlights of the new agreement include:

•    Three-year agreement, term effective April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2012, upon ratification by members of both unions.
•    5.5% overall increase in wages and other compensation over the life of the contracts, including a 4.43% increase, effective April 1, 2009, in Class A, Wild Spot, and basic cable session and use fees.
•    For product moved over to the Internet or in New Media, compensation of 1.3 times the minimum session fee for 8 weeks of use and 3.5 times the minimum session fee for one year’s use.
•    For product made for the Internet or New Media, a new minimum rate structure of 1.3 times the minimum session fee for 8 weeks of use and 3.5 times the minimum session fee for one year’s use, effective in the third year of the contract.
•    0.5% increases in the employer contribution rate to the AFTRA H&R and SAG P&H plans, and a 0.2% increase in employer contributions to the SAG Industry Advancement Cooperative Fund and the AFTRA-Industry Cooperative Fund, bringing the total contribution rate to 15.5%. Effective in year three, the agreement provides for a cap on P&H and H&R contributions for services covered by the contracts to $1 million per performer, per contract, per year with anticipated net gains in P&H and H&R over the term of the contract.
•    Secured five new covered jobs for commercial extras, up from 40 to 45.
•    Established new exclusivity compensation for made-for cable only commercials.
•    Instituted, for the first time, a contract provision to pay extras a round-trip mileage fee of $8.
•    Increased foreign use payments under the Spanish Language section of the contract.
•    The across the board increase under the AFTRA Radio Commercials Contract is 5.35%, in addition to contributions to AFTRA H&R and the AICF.
•    All of the unions’ proposals regarding diversity issues were addressed in the negotiations.

AFTRA and SAG joint member education and informational meetings will be conducted around the nation to provide members with an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the new agreements prior to voting.

Formal negotiations between the 26-member AFTRA/SAG Joint Negotiating Committee and the Joint Policy Committee (JPC) of the American Association of Advertising Agencies (AAAA) and the Association of National Advertisers (ANA) began on February 23 and concluded on the morning of April 1 in New York City.

About AFTRA
The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, AFL-CIO, are the people who entertain and inform America. In 32 Locals across the country, AFTRA members work as actors, journalists, singers, dancers, announcers, hosts, comedians, disc jockeys, and other performers across the media industries including television, radio, cable, sound recordings, music videos, commercials, audiobooks, non-broadcast industrials, interactive games, the Internet, and other digital media. The 70,000 professional performers, broadcasters, and recording artists of AFTRA are working together to protect and improve their jobs, lives, and communities in the 21st century. From new art forms to new technology, AFTRA members embrace change in their work and craft to enhance American culture and society. Visit AFTRA online at www.aftra.com.

About SAG
Screen Actors Guild is the nation’s largest labor union representing working actors. Established in 1933, SAG has a rich history in the American labor movement, from standing up to studios to break long-term engagement contracts in the 1940s to fighting for artists’ rights amid the digital revolution sweeping the entertainment industry in the 21st century. With 20 branches nationwide, SAG represents over 120,000 actors who work in filmed and digital media, television programs, motion pictures, industrials, commercials, video games, music videos and other new media formats. The Guild exists to enhance actors’ working conditions, compensation and benefits and to be a powerful, unified voice on behalf of artists’ rights. SAG is a proud affiliate of the AFL-CIO. Headquartered in Los Angeles, you can visit SAG online at www.sag.org.

Profiles in History auction--Rita Hayworth's Gilda dress, $200,000 Frankenstein one-sheet, $100,000 Blade runner blaster and tons more April 30 and May 1

Harrison Ford's Blaster From Blade Runner, Rita Hayworth's Signature Dress from Gilda, An Original 1931 Frankenstein Movie Poster, Charlton Heston's Planet of the Apes Costume, Darth Maul's Lightsaber, The Creature From The Black Lagoon Mask To Highlight Three Million Dollar Auction of Hollywood Memorabilia April 30 and May 1, 2009

Profiles in History Auction to include collections from Sci-Fi and Horror pioneer Forrest J Ackerman's estate, the work of Tim Burton, Sci-Fi marketing guru Jeff Walker's Blade Runner collection and Stan Winston Studio created Items; Hollywood fine art photography and movie posters, costumes, props and more


Calabasas, CA, April 10, 2009- The Harrison Ford "Rick Deckard" hero blaster from Blade Runner ($100,000-$150,000), an original Frankenstein one-sheet movie poster ($200,000-$250,000), the original Creature from the Black Lagoon hero "Gill Man" mask from Revenge of the Creature ($60,000-$80,000), Ray Park "Darth Maul" fighting lightsaber from Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace ($40,000-$60,000), Charlton Heston's "Colonel George Taylor" costume and display from Planet of the Apes ($40,000-$60,000) and Rita Hayworth's signature gown from Gilda ($30,000-$50,000) highlight just some of the 1,100 iconic pieces of Hollywood history that Profiles in History, the number one company in the world for authentic Hollywood memorabilia will offer on April 30 and May 1, 2009. Worldwide bidding begins at 12:00 PM (noon) April 30 and 11:00 AM May 1 and can be placed either in person, via mail, phone, fax or live on the Internet at http://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/profiles-in-history. What better place to find a Mother's Day or Father's Day gift for the film or TV fan that has everything-or thought that they did?!

This unique auction will feature special collections, including items that sprung forth from the vivid and unique imagination of writer, director, animator, producer and illustrator, Tim Burton including Johnny Depp's and Christina Ricci's complete hero costumes from Sleepy Hollow ($20,000-$30,000) and a screen-used "General Wellington" stop-motion animation puppet from Corpse Bride ($10,000-$20,000).

Along with the Blade Runner hero blaster, which many people consider the "holy grail" of Sci-Fi weapons, The Jeff Walker Blade Runner collection features Harrison Ford's "Rick Deckard" "Voight Kampff" costume ($30,000-$50,000) along with several other Harrison Ford worn costumes and many others props and costumes from the film. The Stan Winston Studio created collection includes the original battle display from Small Soldiers ($12,000-$15,000) and two Velociraptors feeding on a Triceratops display from Jurassic Park ($12,000-$15,000), among others.

Director John Landis, along with countless other Hollywood talents were deeply influenced by Sci-Fi and horror pioneer Forrest J Ackerman (Editors Note-NO period after the "J"). Landis wrote the heartfelt introduction to the auction catalog's Ackerman collection, excerpted here:

"Forrest J Ackerman holds a unique and special place in the history of Pop Culture.  An author, an author's agent, sometime nudist, actor, Esperanto speaker, and a passionate promoter of all things Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror. As Editor of and major contributor to Famous Monsters of Filmland Magazine, Forry's direct influence on people like Guillermo del Toro, Rick Baker, Joe Dante, Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, Frank Darabont,  Brian Singer, Stephen King, Mick Garris, Tobe Hooper, Sam Raimi, John Carpenter, Peter Jackson and countless others has had a tremendous  impact on world literature and the movies.  I hope that whoever ends up as the proud new owner of these sacred objects will appreciate them as much as Forry did."

The massive Ackerman collection includes a Dracula ring worn by Bela Lugosi as Count Dracula-the single most important Lugosi / Dracula screen worn piece to EVER come to auction ($20,000-$30,000). The collection also includes Lugosi's robe from The Raven, the most important 1930's horror costume to ever come to auction ($15,000-$20,000), a cape made for Lugosi in 1932 and used many times for his stage portrayal of Dracula. Lugosi then wore the costume in Plan 9 from Outer Space ($15,000-$20,000), a first edition of the book, Dracula signed by Bram Stoker and inscribed by Bela Lugosi to Forry Ackerman (also signed by a host of other Dracula-related personalities) ($6,000-8,000) and Fritz Lang's monocle, which he wore when he directed Metropolis, given to Forry by Lang: ($3,000-$5,000).

Other well-known props to be auctioned include a Pteranodon display featuring a full set of screen-used Pteranodons from Jurassic Park III ($40,000-$60,000), a screen-used Hunter/Killer Tank from The Terminator ($30,000-$50,000), Hugh Jackman's "Wolverine" hero claws from X-Men: The Last Stand ($30,000-$50,000), Ewan McGregor's "Obi-Wan Kenobi" lightsaber from Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace ($15,000-$20,000), Arnold Schwarzenegger "T-800 Terminator" stunt Gatling gun from Terminator 2: Judgment Day ($10,000-$12,000), Robin Williams' "Alan Parrish" hero "Jumanji" game, tooth necklace, watch, tortoise hat, and other items from Jumanji ($8,000-$10,000), John Belushi's prison employee identification card from The Blues Brothers ($6,000-$8,000) and Dominic Chianese's "Uncle Junior" hero live firing revolver used to shoot "Tony Soprano" in The Sopranos ($6,000-$8,000).

Additional screen-worn costumes include the complete hero Maurice Evans "Dr. Zaius" costume from The Planet of the Apes and Beneath the Planet of the Apes ($40,000-$60,000), a full-body, screen-used Terminator (T-800 model - aka CSM 101) from Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines ($40,000-$60,000), Val Kilmer's "Batman/Sonar Batsuit" from Batman Forever ($40,000-$60,000), Jim Carrey's signature "Riddler" rhinestone unitard and glitter-covered creepers from Batman Forever ($30,000-$50,000), an original Anne Francis signature costume from Forbidden Planet ($20,000-$30,000), Tom Hanks' "Capt. John H. Miller" and Matt Damon's "Pvt. James Francis Ryan" hero costumes from Saving Private Ryan ($20,000-$30,000), Antonio Banderas' "Zorro" hero costume from The Legend of Zorro ($20,000-$30,000), Derek Mears "Jason Voorhees" costume from Friday the 13th ($20,000-$30,000), Hugh Jackman's "Wolverine" costume from X-Men ($15,000-$20,000) and Adam West's TV screen-used Batman tunic, tights, and briefs worn in Batman ($15,000-$20,000.

Music fans will covet the original Mick Jagger Rolling Stones manuscript lyrics for "Too Much Blood" ($15,000-$20,000), the original Jim Morrison Electro-Voice 676 microphone, Shure amplifier and "The Doors" travel case ($12,000-$15,000) and Jim Morrison's frock coat ($10,000-$15,000) among other treasures

Movie poster, fine art photography and art collectors will have the opportunity to purchase rare pieces of Hollywood art including a Jezebel six-sheet poster ($40,000-$60,000), The Adventures of Tarzan six-sheet poster ($15,000-$20,000), The Wolf Man half-sheet poster ($15,000-$20,000), The Day the Earth Stood Still rare six-sheet poster ($12,000-$15,000), The Wizard of Oz Italian 55 x 39 ½ in. poster ($10,000-$15,000), a Louise Brooks oversize gallery portrait by Eugene Robert Richee ($6,000-$8,000), a Jean Harlow oversize gallery portrait from China Seas by George Hurrell and a King Kong exhibition portrait by Ernest A. Bachrach from King Kong ($4,000-$6,000 each), a collection of Mary Pickford portraits from her private collection, a King Kong and Fay Wray Exhibition Portrait by Ernest A. Bachrach from King Kong and an original theatre standee of Marilyn Monroe from The Seven Year Itch ($3,000-$5,000 each) among many others. There is also a large collection of costume, set and production design art.

"I find people buy their memories," says Joe Maddalena, owner of Profiles in History, the nation's leading dealer of guaranteed-authentic original historical autographs and vintage Hollywood memorabilia. "It's all about memories, taking us back to a time, perhaps an event with a long lost relative who took you as a kid to see Star Wars. The baby boomers have come into the spending part of their lives. They have had success and are collecting their childhood. They want 50s, 60s and 70s TV collectibles or memorabilia, as this era of TV was such a huge part of their lives."

*Prices represent Estimated Sale Prices

High resolution art of all items is available upon request. For more information about Profiles in History and to download a complete catalog of items available for this and past auctions, please visit HYPERLINK "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/" \o "http://www.profilesinhistory.com/"www.profilesinhistory.com.

About Profiles in History:
Founded in 1985 by Joseph Maddalena, Profiles in History is the nation's leading dealer in guaranteed-authentic original historical autographs, letters, documents, vintage signed photographs and manuscripts.  Profiles in History has held some of the most prestigious and successful auctions of Hollywood memorabilia. Their auctions include costumes, props and set pieces from both vintage and contemporary film, television, and rock 'n roll. Profiles in History's location in Calabasas Hills, CA- virtually a stone's throw away from every major Hollywood studio - ensures a constant flow of fantastic and rare collectibles. With an extensive network of dealers, collectors, and institutions, they are proud to play an important role in the preservation of motion picture history.

Prior Profiles in History Hollywood auctions highlights include the "Cowardly Lion" costume from The Wizard of Oz ($805,000); a full-scale model T-800 Endoskeleton from Terminator 2: Judgment Day ($488,750); a King Kong six-sheet movie poster ($345,000); the Command Chair from the "U.S.S. Enterprise" ($304,750); the original "Robot" from Lost in Space ($264,500); Luke Skywalker's lightsaber ($240,000), the Black Beauty car from The Green Hornet ($192,000); George Reeves' Superman costume from The Adventures of Superman ($126,500); the H.R. Giger designed Alien creature suit from Alien ($126,500); a full-scale T-Rex head from Jurassic Park ($126,500), the Leaping Alien Warrior figure from Aliens ($126,500), Christopher Reeve's 'Superman' costume from Superman: The Movie ($115,000), C-3PO's helmet ($120,000),  The Wizard of Oz 'Winkie' Guard Costume ($115,000); a "Ming the Merciless" cape from Flash Gordon ($115,000) and the Hydraulic screen-used Velociraptor from The Lost World: Jurassic Park II. ($115,000).

Entertainment 2  Entertainment Arts Fashion and Technology