QVC Welcomes You Home with Casa Zeta-Jones Academy and Tony Award-Winning Actress Catherine Zeta-Jones to Launch Home Collection with QVC

WEST CHESTER, Pa., Aug. 7, 2017 -- Home décor meets Hollywood. Best known as a multi-talented actress who has graced both the silver screen and Broadway stage, Catherine Zeta-Jones' passion for design was inspired by her childhood in Wales alongside her seamstress mother and a lifetime of travels. Now, she is bringing her creative vision to life with Casa Zeta-Jones, a signature home collection scheduled to debut on QVC Thursday, September 28 at 10 AM and 10 PM (ET).

"We have been truly impressed not only by Catherine's luxurious design aesthetic, but her keen eye for detail as well," said Doug Howe, Executive Vice President of Merchandising for QVC. "Her dedication to perfection is evident in even the smallest details of each item, and we are confident our customers will be both enthralled by her collection and amazed at the ease with which it transforms the home."

Influenced by her Welsh heritage and the elegance of old Hollywood, Casa Zeta-Jones perfectly blends luxury and opulence with functionality and versatility. This initial launch features an assortment of items, including bedding, bath towels, table linens and rugs, designed to complement any style and space.

"I can't wait for everyone to see Casa Zeta-Jones. I am thrilled to bring my home and bedding line to QVC," Catherine Zeta-Jones said. "This is a project I have been passionate about and working on for years now, and I am delighted to share it with QVC customers."

Zeta-Jones partnered over a year ago with renowned business mogul Daymond John and his team at The Shark Group, and her vision for Casa Zeta-Jones has now come to life.

The Casa Zeta-Jones collection is scheduled to be available beginning September 28 through QVC.com, the QVC apps or by calling 800.345.1515.

‘The Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of’ Returns to Movie Screens When THE MALTESE FALCON Screens Nationwide Feb. 21 and 24

Fathom Events and Turner Classic Movies Present the 75th Anniversary of the Film Noir Classic as Part of the ‘TCM Big Screen Classics’ Series

                DENVER (Feb. 8, 2016) — Frequently considered the first – and finest – example of film noir filmmaking in Hollywood, 1941’s classic THE MALTESE FALCON will cast its mysterious shadows on the silver screen once again on Feb. 21 and Feb. 24 as part of the Fathom Events and Turner Classic Movies (TCM) TCM Big Screen Classics series.

                In a special presentation for the 75th anniversary of the Warner Bros. classic, TCM host Ben Mankiewicz will offer all-new commentary for THE MALTESE FALCON, which will play before and after each screening. But moviegoers should take note that the opportunity to see “the stuff that dreams are made of” in theaters will be fleeting: THE MALTESE FALCON will play four times only, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. (local time) each day.

                THE MALTESE FALCON will play in more than 650 theaters nationwide, offering longtime fans of the hard-boiled thriller, directed by John Huston, the rare chance to see it in theaters, while a new generation can discover the secrets of the infamous “black bird” by seeing it on the big screen for the first time.

                Originally released on Oct. 3, 1941, as the nation braced itself for the possibility of war, THE MALTESE FALCON launched Huston’s directorial career with the story of high-living lowlifes who will stop at nothing to get their sweaty hands on a jewel-encrusted falcon. Detective Sam Spade, played by legendary Humphrey Bogart, wants to find out why – and who’ll take the fall for his partner’s murder.

                Tickets to TCM Big Screen Classics: THE MALTESE FALCON 75th Anniversary can be purchased online from Fathom Events.

FATHOM EVENTS AND TURNER CLASSIC MOVIES PRESENT ‘TCM BIG SCREEN CLASSICS’: THE MALTESE FALCON 75th ANNIVERSARY

WHO:
Fathom Events, Turner Classic Movies and Warner Bros.


WHAT:
“TCM Big Screen Classics: The Maltese Falcon 75th Anniversary”






WHERE:

More than 650 select movie theaters nationwide.  Tickets are available online at www.FathomEvents.com or at participating theater box offices. For a complete list of participating theaters, click on the “Theater Locations” tab.


WHEN:
Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016                                    2 p.m. and 7 p.m. local time

Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016                            2 p.m. and 7 p.m. local time


WHY:

Fathom Events and TCM present the biggest-ever, year-long TCM Big Screen Classics series, which brings classic movies back into theaters – presented in the original aspect ratio with digital projection – each month throughout 2016. In February, the fabled film noir favorite The Maltese Falcon returns to cinemas to thrill longtime fans and a new generation with its tale of murder, revenge and greed – a tale that has enthralled moviegoers from the moment it was first released 75 years ago.

Would you help destroy the demons of abuse?

Stephen Endelman has spent the last 20 years writing music for films and television in Hollywood. Now, he's working on his new project, The Boy, The Man, and His Kite, with which he hopes to shed some light on the effects of abuse, illness, and the healing qualities of art.

Stephen acknowledges that his life would not be what it is today were it not for his family and friends: "my 'supporters of life'" as he calls them.  Without them, Stephen is convinced he would not have made it through his illness.  Being on the verge of death, he knew he could not abandon his family and closest friends, thus he was able to slowly come out of his coma, and he lives his life very much alive and well.

With The Boy, The Man, and His Kite, Stephen has described its creation like this, "Creating a film on this subject has the potential to help so many people..." We at The "IN" Show are compelled to ask that you donate to Stephen's project. Just $5 or $10 would mean so much to the success of the endeavor.  Even a tweet, a share, a like would make a difference; for we know the power that social media can have.

Here is Stephen's go-fund-me page: http://www.gofundme.com/aboyamanandhiskite. You will find listed various rewards for donation. Please, help Stephen effect change in the lives of others who have suffered and perhaps still are but gifting him the opportunity to get his story to all those who need to hear it.

FOOLS FROM AWARD WINNING WRITER/DIRECTOR BENJAMIN MEYER TO WORLD PREMIERE IN HOLLYWOOD AT DANCES WITH FILMS

“FOOLS”

FROM AWARD WINNING WRITER/DIRECTOR BENJAMIN MEYER TO WORLD PREMIERE IN HOLLYWOOD AT DANCES WITH FILMS

(Hollywood, CA May 21, 2015) FOOLS, a film by Benjamin Meyer, will have its World Premiere screening Saturday, May 30 at 5:00pm at the TCL Chinese 6 Theatres in Hollywood & Highland in competition at the Dances With Films festival, which runs May 28 – June 8.  FOOLS, Meyer’s feature directorial debut, is a Romantic Drama filmed in Chicago about two strangers who start a relationship in a most unconventional way.

The film stars Mary Cross, Michael Szeles, Rebecca Spence, Janet Ulrich Brooks, Tony Fitzpatrick, Danny Goldring and Maury Cooper.  FOOLS was Produced by Beth Schacter and Dana Scott, with Executive Producers Judith Weatherhead, Ann Daly, and Julie Gibson.

In FOOLS, two strangers brush hands on a crowded Chicago El train. A week later, without exchanging a word, they move in together. He's barely hanging on after being fired, again. She's fleeing an angry roommate. They make it work, the way two strangers can sometimes make strangeness work for them. Together, they fabricate a rich romantic history. But when reality intrudes, they must decide whether what they share is truly love, or just a fantasy.


Award-winning writer/director Benjamin Meyer’s short film WHAT ARE YOU HAVING? won the Grand Prix du Court-Metrage at the Deauville Film Festival (Roman Polanski, jury chair), a CINE Golden Eagle, and Best Short Film at the Abuja International Film Festival in Nigeria.

His prior short, GEORGIE PORGIE won “Best Short Film” at the Chicago Underground Film Festival, the Boston Underground Film Festival and the Seattle Underground Film Festival; “Best Director” at the Georgetown Independent Film Festival; “Best Drama” at the IFP/Chicago Film Festival; and a Bronze Plaque at the Columbus International Film Festival.

He also won multiple festival awards for his prior two shorts, SOLD and BOTHERED. Meyer received his BA in Film Studies from Wesleyan university with High Honors, and received his MFA in Film Production from Northwestern University. As an editor he has worked on feature documentaries and television specials with such award-winning filmmakers as Michele Ohayon, Ondi Timoner, Eddie Schmidt and Peter Stuart. He edited the feature film NORMAL ADOLESCENT BEHAVIOR for New Line Cinema. Meyer’s short story (and yourself) was recently published by Mullholland Books as part of their Popcorn Fiction series.

SOURCE: Dave Roberson, Roberson PR

IN Show Celebrities: Katharine Hepburn!

THE ACADEMY SELECTS 2014 AND 2015 SHOW DATES

KEY DATES ANNOUNCED FOR THE OSCARS®

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the ABC Television Network today announced the dates for the 86th and 87th Oscar® presentations. The 86th and 87th Academy Awards® will air live on ABC on Oscar Sunday, March 2, 2014, and February 22, 2015, respectively.

Key dates for the Awards season are:

Saturday, November 16, 2013:	The Governors Awards
Monday, December 2, 2013:	Official Screen Credits due
Friday, December 27, 2013:	Nominations voting begins
Wednesday, January 8, 2014:	Nominations voting ends 5 p.m. PT
Thursday, January 16, 2014:	Oscar nominations announced
Monday, February 10, 2014:	Nominees Luncheon
Friday, February 14, 2014:	Final voting begins
Saturday, February 15, 2014:	Scientific and Technical Awards
Tuesday, February 25, 2014:	Final voting ends 5 p.m. PT
Oscar Sunday, March 2, 2014:	86th Academy Awards
Oscar Sunday, Feb 22, 2015:	87th Academy Awards

The 86th and 87th Academy Awards ceremonies will be held at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live by the ABC Television Network.

 

ABOUT THE ACADEMY
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the world's preeminent movie-related organization, with a membership of more than 6,000 of the most accomplished men and women working in cinema. In addition to the annual Academy Awards–in which the members vote to select the nominees and winners–Academy presents a diverse year-round slate of public programs, exhibitions and events; provides financial support to a wide range of other movie-related organizations and endeavors; acts as a neutral advocate in the advancement of motion picture technology; and, through its Margaret Herrick Library and Academy Film Archive, collects, preserves, restores and provides access to movies and items related to their history. Through these and other activities the Academy serves students, historians, the entertainment industry and people everywhere who love movies.

SOURCE The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Elegant Oscars Party At Magic Castle Pleases Celebrities And Fans Alike

The Academy Awards are undoubtedly the culmination of awards season in Hollywood every year.  After the Golden Globes, the Grammys, and the plethora of other shows that honor those in the entertainment industry, the Oscars are seen as the last grand, exciting night for a red carpet extravaganza.  Maybe it’s because the movies are like the opera in that every art form comes to life in a single masterpiece.  Movies include everything, and so we save the best for last perhaps.  Or maybe it’s because people all over the world are eagerly waiting to see what their favorite actresses are going to wear with the vain hope that they will one day buy one of those expensive dresses for themselves.  Or maybe it’s because everyone is dying to determine just how bad the new Oscar host will flop no matter how hard he or she tries.  After all, everyone realizes that only Billy Crystal can pull this one off.  Right?

Well, regardless of what the many great expectations for the Oscars may be, one thing is for sure: EVERYONE needs a PLACE TO BE on Academy Awards night, and we don’t mean the traffic!  Such being the case, every year thousands of stars, fans and even media personnel are scrambling to find an ideal location to watch the show, get those nice photos, gain a little publicity for themselves or that upcoming project, or just have a good time.  Oscar parties in Hollywood could be exciting and crowded with celebrities or just an intimate gathering. Unfortunately, somebody needs to get those reservations for the more impressive parties, and getting a ticket is not always easy.  Stars and fans alike have to spend some serious time thinking about what ideal party they should be attending.  Inside the Dolby Theater?  Outside it? Elton John AIDS Benefit? Vanity Fair?  Beverly Hills Hotel?  Decisions, decisions…enough to sometimes drive one just as batty as navigating the many street closures plaguing the city.

Luckily, one group of entertainment industry professionals and movie enthusiasts have it all worked out - reserving the perfect spot for Oscar night.  Every year, right across the street from the historic Kodak Theater (now the Dolby), they gather at The World Famous Magic Castle to watch the celebration LIVE on plasma screen televisions at the Castle’s Annual Oscars Viewing Party, a tribute to the Academy Awards and a reward for the Castle's many members.  The elegant evening features a media covered red carpet, endless buffet dinner, viewing party of the Oscars, raffle prizes, giveaways, and, once the Oscars are over, the opportunity to travel upstairs in the venue and watch captivating magic shows well into the night.  Ever see "The Prestige" starring Michael Caine, Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman? Well, over at the Castle, they do it "for real."

And this year was no different.  A crowd of celebrities gathered at the entrance to this year’s event, including Los Angeles Music Awards and Hollywood F.A.M.E. Awards Founder Al Bowman, who congratulated the establishment for hosting a great party on Oscar night, as well as hosts Ben Roman and John Carvalho.  Each year, Carvalho, an advocate for the arts, music and entertainment in West Hollywood, collaborates with Latin recording artist Roman to invite music industry leaders such as Bowman, independent filmmakers, and Castle members to the Oscars Viewing Party.  Among those on the guest list over the years have included West Hollywood celebrities such as the multi-talented author, model and civil rights activist Ben Patrick Johnson, comedienne Shawn Pelofsky, Go Gay Today Executives Mike Westman and Ernesto Higuera, and the Grammy considered pop recording artist Kris Searle.  Some of the hottest "Andrew Christian" beauty boys have also attended in the past (fully clothed of course. The Castle has a strict dress code).  Other attendees have included the Honorary Mayor of Beverly Hills David Harrison Levi, the Peoples' Mayor of Hollywood Tony Boldi, actor/producer Tom Tangen, movie director Michael Donahue, stuntman Raynald La Rochelle, photographer Raul Esparza III, Inspire U Records President Rich Williams, and jazz artist Tom Slack.  This year, actor Said Faraj, actress Marlenne Castaneda, model Lucy Serrano, and recording artist Willie Ames were among those in attendance.

"I think this year's party has been an exciting one for us because we have had so many accomplishments from our guests.  In fact, one of our films has qualified for the Oscars," says Carvalho, referring to Suniil Sadarangani's short film "In Transit" (2011; Hanuman Media and Powersource Productions).  Aside from its Academy Awards qualification, "In Transit" was an "official selection" at the Palm Springs Film Festival and won 3 Angelino Film Awards, including Best Short Film, after having been nominated in 5 categories.  Sadarangani could not attend the event because he was in France filming his new short "Blind."  However, movie producer Mike Quiroga, actor Jimmy Dux, and publicists Favi Jaime and Carlos Rojas were in attendance.  Quiroga, Dux, and Fernando Gonzales of Sky Pictures collaborated with John Carvalho to submit Sadarangani’s film to the Oscars last August. Jaime and Rojas have been involved in the film’s publicity.

Among the other accomplishments was from actor and Guinness Book of World Records holder Bill Blair, who starred in this year’s Best Picture "Argo."  Blair has played more special effect make-up characters in a career than any other professional in the entertainment industry, such as a number of the Star Trek shows on TV.  It wasn’t clear if he would show up to the Magic Castle as himself or an alien from another planet that would scare security into letting him into the venue without needing to validate parking.  As it turns out he was dressed “human” - in the perfect suit for red carpet photos standing not next to a Klingon, but rather the charming Meli Alexander.  (Though it’s true he dawned a “Star Trek lapel” for show).

Gracing the red carpet this year were also Mikey Jayy, Executive Producer of the Artists in Music Awards and Hollywood actor and events promoter Nic Creznic.  Jayy and Creznic have just come off their successful Artists in Music Awards at the Key Club on Sunset that was the talk of the town right before the Grammys.  It is believed that the Magic Castle Oscars Party every year helps a number of recording artists collaborate on movie projects with film producers.

In fact, Ben Roman himself is one of those recording artists.  His songs, both originals and covers, have been a hit on MySpace and the World Wide Web and have been featured on original motion picture soundtracks.  Roman is also an experienced stage entertainer, having giving excellent performances at both Long Beach Pride, CSW LA Pride, and around Southern California.  Roman’s work has appeared on daytime television, reality TV programming, Bravo, A&E, and The Disney Channel.  In 2012, he debuted his first English album "Ben Roman" that is available on iTunes.  He is presently working on additional music and videos.  For more on Ben Roman’s music visit: http://www.benromanonline.com/ .

The elegant Oscars Party at the Magic Castle is expected to continue in upcoming years, pleasing stars and fans alike.

SOURCE WeHo Post PR

GLITTER ROSE “BUDA NEGRA” MUSIC VIDEO WORLD PREMIERE AT HARD ROCK CAFE HOLLYWOOD ON HOLLYWOOD BLVD.

Press Event, World Premiere and Live Music by Glitter Rose

Hollywood, CA, February 13, 2013 – The kiss of death hits Hollywood, CA on February 22, 2013 as Outlaw Southern Rocker Glitter Rose world premieres the “Buda Negra” music video at Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood on Hollywood Blvd. This will be Texas native Glitter Rose’s debut music video, featuring the bonus track from her album Dead or Alive, which she co-produced with producer and musician Dran Michael.

The “Buda Negra” music video was directed by writer, actress, and young visionary Amy Campione. Up and coming actor Jeff Torres co-stars in the video with Glitter Rose. GR is featured as the character “La Buda Negra”, showing her ability to act as well as her musicianship and musical performance. “Buda Negra” was written by Glitter Rose, telling the story of a woman who takes no mercy on her lovers, all of them becoming her victims, much like a Black Widow.

To view the Official “Buda Negra” music video teaser, please visit GR’s YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/glitterrosemusic

What: Glitter Rose’s “Buda Negra” Music Video World Premiere

When: Friday, February 22, 2013
6:30 p.m. Press Interviews / Step and Repeat Photo Ops begin
9:00 p.m. Music Video Premiere
9:30 p.m. Live Music by Glitter Rose begins

Where: Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood Boulevard
6801 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood, CA
323-465-7625

Admission: FREE Event, 21+ (unless accompanied by an adult)

For more information, visit www.hardrock.com .

About Glitter Rose
Glitter Rose just received 2 awards in the 2013 Artists In Music Awards for Best Rock Artist and Album of the Year for Dead or Alive, which released in Spring 2012. Her endorsements include Orange Amps, Fishman Acoustic Amplification, Telefunken Elektroakustik, Warrior Guitar, Rotosound Music Strings, BAE Audio, Moody Leather, and Guitar Hands Hand Care. She also held a 5 month residency with Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood on Hollywood Blvd. for a live music event they created around her music called Southern Rock Brunch from March-July 2012. 2013 has lots in store for GR, including a residency for the month of March at Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood on Hollywood Blvd. for their Happy Hour live music series, a Spring Oklahoma/Texas tour, followed by an East Coast run in the Fall. For more information, including links to all of GR’s social networking sites, please visit www.glitterrose.com.

About Hard Rock International
With a total of 177 venues in 58 countries, including 141 cafes, 18 hotels and 8 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. HRI owns the global trademark for all Hard Rock brands. The company owns, operates and franchises Cafes in iconic cities including London, New York, San Francisco, Sydney and Dubai. HRI also owns, licenses and/or manages hotel/casino properties worldwide. Destinations include the companies’ two most successful Hotel and Casino properties in Tampa and Hollywood, Fl., both owned and operated by HRI parent company The Seminole Tribe of Florida., as well as other exciting locations including Bali, Biloxi, Chicago, Cancun, Las Vegas, San Diego and Singapore. Upcoming new Hard Rock Cafe locations include San Jose. New Hard Rock Hotel projects include Aruba, Riviera Maya, Abu Dhabi and Shenzhen and Haikou in China. New Hard Rock Casino projects in development include Hungary and Northfield, OH. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com.

Entertainment Veteran Steven Dunning: First Guest for 2013 on The IN Show!

UPDATE: Entertainment veteran Steven Dunning was our first Special Guest for 2013, on The "IN" Show. If his story wasn't true, it would be the basis for any Hollywood feature: From humble beginnings to the heights of Hollywood! Steven's rise through the labyrinth of Hollywood is a story worth hearing. To here is Keynote Speech from GIFF-Los Angeles 2012, go here.

---

"Are You Ready For Hollywood?"

Steven Dunning is a Director, Writer, and Producer of Domestic and International films, television, music and online products. His forte? Handling management of large creative teams, budgets, diverse projects with specific goals and solutions from concept to public acceptance through all current media and distribution channels.

Steven was raised in a small farming community of rural Pennsylvania. His strong work ethic and individual dreams pushed him to tell stories for the masses that could inspire the individual in us all. Leaving everything behind he came to Los Angeles -alone - years ago. Going door to door in the Entertainment Capital of the world, he worked endlessly with no pay and proved his desire. This led to paid work, but still at the very bottom of the ladder. Determination and a clear goal kept him climbing over the bumps along the way. Production Assistant, Production Coordinator, Production Manager, Director of Photography, Post-Production Supervisor, Associate Producer, Writer, Producer, Director: This was the path taken over the years.

Having previously worked for Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment inside of Universal Studios, Steven's weekly delivery to NBC of prime time shows strengthened his production and post-production expertise. He has worked in multiple production roles over the years with the following: Universal Studios, Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros., Wayfarer Studios NYC, Amblin Entertainment, HBO, NBC, PBS, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Nike, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, General Motors, Levi-Strauss, American Red Cross, BMW, McDonald’s, AT&T, and many more. He has also worked with such entertainment icons as Michael Jackson, Madonna, Metallica, George Burns, Boyz to Men, Mariah Carey, Silk and others.

Along with continuing feature film projects, international co-productions and broadcasts, Dunning's past work was at Playtone, for Tom Hanks, on domestic projects like the Emmy Award winning HBO series “From the Earth to the Moon,” and for Twentieth Century Fox with Chris Carter at 1013 Productions. Also, his working at HBO overseeing the syndication projects for “Sex and the City”, “Sopranos” and “Arliss” while additionally combining his music and film work producing creative show elements for Lionel Richie’s European tour.

Using his wealth of knowledge, experience and mettle, Steven Dunning presented his question, "Are You Ready For Hollywood," at the GI FilmFest Hollywood.

Hollywood and Music Insider

While at Darque Pictures, Steven Dunning wrote, produced and directed the multi award-winning feature “Now Chinatown” which traveled and scored on the world festival circuit and now resides at Blockbuster, Netflix, Barnes and Noble and all other major retailers. Voted Top Ten dvd of the year by Einsiders.com with Lord of the Rings, Monsters Inc., Beauty and the Beast, Amelie, Reservoir Dogs and E.T.. With excellent reviews from The Los Angeles Times and four-star reviews from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, Steven was happy to screen it for the Golden Globe members in a private setting garnering four-star reviews.

Steven augmented his stable when he added a record label releasing “The Next Santana”- Cesar. Cesar has performed all through Europe as a solo artist. He also performed with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Frank Sinatra, Al Dimeola, recorded with producer Bebu Silvetti (Luis Miguel, Placido Domingo), and currently meeting with Andrea Bocelli and The Gipsy Kings for performing services. Dunning’s relationship with the USO and Armed Forces Entertainment has already netted tours for his artist Cesar, including Iraq and the Middle East, from where Steven returned from a month of shooting reality programming.

Improving the Lives of Others

Steven Dunning has agreed to open a joint-venture with Beijing (Peking) University for a film/television/music college for the oldest and most prestigious university in the one billion plus emerging market. The school in China is set to include a separate commercial entity for producing and promoting foreign film/television/music productions.

Additionally, Dunning is frequently invited as a special guest lecturer at American and International universities such as The Beijing Film Academy, Florida Pacific University, California State University, Cal Poly, amongst others. He serves on the Cal Poly (California State Polytechnic University) Advisory Board for their new entertainment business, law and marketing degree program and holds the honor of being a proctor at Harvard University.

Steven Dunning also founded the “The Greater Good Award” to recognize those who sacrifice themselves in order to benefit many more around them.

Currently at NBCUniversal, Steven Dunning continues his work in final delivery of finished products, both feature film and television.

Former National Co-lead of the NBCUniversal Veterans Network, he has worked with and continues to support myriad charitable organizations, the Pentagon and White House. As an original core member of the high profile Got Your Six campaign, supported by luminaries Tom Hanks, Michael Douglas, Jay Leno, Jessica Chastain, etc., in and outside of work he aims to help all Veterans and family members by bringing awareness and solutions to these issues nationwide: www.gotyour6.org .

The Got Your 6 Campaign is creating a new conversation in America where Veterans and Military Families are perceived as leaders and civic assets. Dunning's work with the Got Your 6 Campaign has been honored by the Army. He was one of five who were given the Outstanding Civilian Service Award Medal* as presented by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Raymond T. Odierno.

Steven shared, "I grew up around Valley Forge, and as a kid I always would think of the sacrifice members of the military have endured over the years so all of us can live free lives. This award is such an honor. If there is one thing I would like to tell every American, if I could, it would be to take time and honor the military members and their families for all that they do for us."

*The Army Outstanding Civilian Service Award Medal is the third highest honor within the Department of the Army civilian awards scheme and is presented to civilians for service that makes a substantial contribution to the Army and its Soldiers.

Steven Dunning wants to know:

"Are You Ready For Hollywood?"

Steven Dunning is a Director, Writer, and Producer of Domestic and International films, television, music and online products. His forte? Handling management of large creative teams, budgets, diverse projects with specific goals and solutions from concept to public acceptance through all current media and distribution channels.

Steven was raised in a small farming community of rural Pennsylvania. His strong work ethic and individual dreams pushed him to tell stories for the masses that could inspire the individual in us all. Leaving everything behind he came to Los Angeles -alone - years ago. Going door to door in the Entertainment Capital of the world, he worked endlessly with no pay and proved his desire. This led to paid work, but still at the very bottom of the ladder. Determination and a clear goal kept him climbing over the bumps along the way. Production Assistant, Production Coordinator, Production Manager, Director of Photography, Post-Production Supervisor, Associate Producer, Writer, Producer, Director: This was the path taken over the years.

Having previously worked for Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment inside of Universal Studios, Steven's weekly delivery to NBC of prime time shows strengthened his production and post-production expertise. He has worked in multiple production roles over the years with the following: Universal Studios, Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros., Wayfarer Studios NYC, Amblin Entertainment, HBO, NBC, PBS, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Nike, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, General Motors, Levi-Strauss, American Red Cross, BMW, McDonald’s, AT&T, and many more. He has also worked with such entertainment icons as Michael Jackson, Madonna, Metallica, George Burns, Boyz to Men, Mariah Carey, Silk and others.

Along with continuing feature film projects, international co-productions and broadcasts, Dunning's past work was at Playtone, for Tom Hanks, on domestic projects like the Emmy Award winning HBO series “From the Earth to the Moon,” and for Twentieth Century Fox with Chris Carter at 1013 Productions. Also, his working at HBO overseeing the syndication projects for “Sex and the City”, “Sopranos” and “Arliss” while additionally combining his music and film work producing creative show elements for Lionel Richie’s European tour.

Using his wealth of knowledge, experience and mettle, Steven Dunning presented his question, "Are You Ready For Hollywood," at the GI FilmFest Hollywood.

Hollywood and Music Insider
While at Darque Pictures, Steven Dunning wrote, produced and directed the multi award-winning feature “Now Chinatown” which traveled and scored on the world festival circuit and now resides at Blockbuster, Netflix, Barnes and Noble and all other major retailers. Voted Top Ten dvd of the year by Einsiders.com with Lord of the Rings, Monsters Inc., Beauty and the Beast, Amelie, Reservoir Dogs and E.T.. With excellent reviews from The Los Angeles Times and four-star reviews from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, Steven was happy to screen it for the Golden Globe members in a private setting garnering four-star reviews.

Steven augmented his stable when he added a record label releasing “The Next Santana”- Cesar. Cesar has performed all through Europe as a solo artist. He also performed with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Frank Sinatra, Al Dimeola, recorded with producer Bebu Silvetti (Luis Miguel, Placido Domingo), and currently meeting with Andrea Bocelli and The Gipsy Kings for performing services. Dunning’s relationship with the USO and Armed Forces Entertainment has already netted tours for his artist Cesar, including Iraq and the Middle East, from where Steven returned from a month of shooting reality programming.

Improving the Lives of Others
Steven Dunning has agreed to open a joint-venture with Beijing (Peking) University for a film/television/music college for the oldest and most prestigious university in the one billion plus emerging market. The school in China is set to include a separate commercial entity for producing and promoting foreign film/television/music productions.

Additionally, Dunning is frequently invited as a special guest lecturer at American and International universities such as The Beijing Film Academy, Florida Pacific University, California State University, Cal Poly, amongst others. He serves on the Cal Poly (California State Polytechnic University) Advisory Board for their new entertainment business, law and marketing degree program and holds the honor of being a proctor at Harvard University.

Steven Dunning also founded the “The Greater Good Award” to recognize those who sacrifice themselves in order to benefit many more around them.

Currently at NBCUniversal, Steven Dunning continues his work in final delivery of finished products, both feature film and television.

Former National Co-lead of the NBCUniversal Veterans Network, he has worked with and continues to support myriad charitable organizations, the Pentagon and White House. As an original core member of the high profile Got Your Six campaign, supported by luminaries Tom Hanks, Michael Douglas, Jay Leno, Jessica Chastain, etc., in and outside of work he aims to help all Veterans and family members by bringing awareness and solutions to these issues nationwide: www.gotyour6.org .

 

The Got Your 6 Campaign is creating a new conversation in America where Veterans and Military Families are perceived as leaders and civic assets. Dunning's work with the Got Your 6 Campaign has been honored by the Army.  He was one of five who were given the Outstanding Civilian Service Award Medal* as presented by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Raymond T. Odierno.

 

Steven shared, "I grew up around Valley Forge, and as a kid I always would think of the sacrifice members of the military have endured over the years so all of us can live free lives. This award is such an honor. If there is one thing I would like to tell every American, if I could, it would be to take time and honor the military members and their families for all that they do for us."

 

*The Army Outstanding Civilian Service Award Medal is the third highest honor within the Department of the Army civilian awards scheme and is presented to civilians for service that makes a substantial contribution to the Army and its Soldiers.



KEY DATES ANNOUNCED FOR 85TH ACADEMY AWARDS®

 

 

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences today announced key dates for the 85th Academy Awards season.

The key dates are:

 

Friday, November 30, 2012:		Official Screen Credits due
Saturday, December 1, 2012:		Governors Awards presentation
Monday, December 17, 2012:		Nominations voting begins
Thursday, January 3, 2013:		Nominations voting ends 5 p.m. PT
Thursday, January 10, 2013:		Nominations announced 5:30 a.m. PT, Academy's Samuel Goldwyn Theater
Monday, February 4, 2013:		Nominees Luncheon
Friday, February 8, 2013:		Final voting begins
Saturday, February 9, 2013:		Scientific and Technical Awards presentation
Tuesday, February 19, 2013:		Final voting ends 5 p.m. PT
Sunday, February 24, 2013:		85th Academy Awards presentation

In an effort to provide members and the public a longer period of time to see the nominated films, the Academy will reveal the 85th Academy Awards nominations on January 10, five days earlier than previously announced.

In addition, this will be the first time the Academy will provide its membership the opportunity to vote electronically. Together with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and Everyone Counts, the Academy has been developing an electronic voting process for more than a year. The Academy conducted extensive research and held numerous focus groups with its members to ensure a smooth transition and widespread adoption.

The Academy will make several voting resources available to members during the transition, including the installation of assisted voting stations in Los Angeles, New York and London, a 24-hour telephone help line during voting periods, and paper ballots.

In the pre-Nominations phase, members will continue to vote via paper ballot in eight categories due to specialized screening schedules and processes. Those categories are Animated Feature Film, Animated Short Film, Live Action Short Film, Documentary Feature, Documentary Short Subject, Foreign Language Film, Makeup and Hairstyling and Visual Effects.

The Academy Awards ceremony will be held at The Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live by the ABC Television Network. A 90-minute red carpet show will immediately precede the broadcast.

ABOUT THE ACADEMY
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the world's preeminent movie-related organization, with a membership of more than 6,000 of the most accomplished men and women working in cinema. In addition to the annual Academy Awards–in which the members vote to select the nominees and winners–Academy presents a diverse year-round slate of public programs, exhibitions and events; provides financial support to a wide range of other movie-related organizations and endeavors; acts as a neutral advocate in the advancement of motion picture technology; and, through its Margaret Herrick Library and Academy Film Archive, collects, preserves, restores and provides access to movies and items related to their history. Through these and other activities the Academy serves students, historians, the entertainment industry and people everywhere who love movies.

FOLLOW THE ACADEMY
http://www.oscars.org/
www.facebook.com/TheAcademy
www.youtube.com/Oscars
http://twitter.com/theacademy

LA Music Awards And The Whisky A Go-Go Present Stevie Hawkins Live Onstage

John Carvalho and Mikey Jayy To be Panelists at Los Angeles Music Awards this Sept. 27, 2012!

 

Award-winning vocalist and drummer Stevie Hawkins will be performing for the Los Angeles Music Awards at the world famous Whisky A Go-Go in Hollywood, California, on September 27, 2012. Stevie is scheduled to perform at 9:00 PM.

Hawkins is nominated for the 22nd Annual LA Music Awards to be held November 15 at the Avalon Theater in two categories: Male Singer/Songwriter of the Year, and Record of the Year, for his critically acclaimed CD titled "What The Funk?". The upcoming LAMA event at the Whisky A Go-Go will be the final voting process for all of its awards categories, and where nine sponsored nominees will perform live. For 130 nominees, the general public will cast their votes via paper ballots, and panelists will make their final judgment and decisions to determine the winners at this event. The event will also present press, publicity and media exposure opportunities for the artists performing at the event.

"2012 has been an exciting year, with lots of great things happening stemming from the What The Funk? album release", says Hawkins. "As always, gracious thanks goes out to my event sponsor ShhhMedia, co-writer Charlotte Hannon, the musicians who performed on the record, radio, and most of all, to God. Being nominated by the LA Music Awards' founders Al Bowman and Susanna Griffie, along with an illustrious advisory panel consisting of music industry icons Mike Curb, producers David Kershenbaum, Ron Nevison, Eddy Kramer and Jack Douglas, as well as the event panelists Mikey Jayy, Liz Rodriguez, Jonathan George, Dr. John Carvalho, and Brad Mercer, is truly an honor and a blessing".

The Whisky is like "the axis mundi" of the music universe with so many of the world's music legends having graced the stage there. As Ray Manzarek of The Doors once said, "gears just fit together and begin to rotate, vibrate together. Playing the Whisky A Go-Go on the first gig in Los Angeles, is a meshing of the gears. Vibrations going on will just come together with something else totally unconscious, bubbling out of the unconscious outside of our control".

This being Hawkins first solo gig in LA, there's no better way to experience the zen globe than at the Whisky A Go-Go. Since 1964, the Whisky A Go-Go has played a role in the establishment of artists' careers including Van Morrison, The Doors, Van Halen, Alice Cooper, Frank Zappa and Motley Crue. Almost fifty years later, the Whisky A Go-Go remains an important performance venue for new and upcoming artists. As long as there has been a Los Angeles rock scene, there has been the Whisky A Go-Go.

The Los Angeles Music Awards has an amazing history dating back to 1991. Al Bowman, executive producer of the awards says, "The premise of the LA Music Awards is to forward the music of a new generation and the celebration of entertainment industry icons. We are all about helping independent artists further their careers. Artists like Korn, Dream Theater, Sugar Ray, No Doubt, Machine Head, 311, Black Eyed Peas, Everclear, and Walter Trout are just some of the many artists who have launched their incredibly huge careers at one of our productions".

Other LAMA award recipients throughout the years include President Jimmy Carter, Senator Max Cleland, Jackson Brown, Jamie Hilfiger, Ozzy Osbourne, Slash, Jaco Pastorious, Stanley Kramer, Douglas Busby, Carol Conner, Eddy Money, Colin Hay, Trini Lopez and Paul Rodgers.

The Whisky A Go-Go is located at 8901 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90069. Doors open at 6:30 PM for the September 27th LAMA event. The show presentation begins at 7:30 PM.

For further information regarding Stevie Hawkins, please visit his website. For information regarding the Los Angeles Music Awards, please visit the LA Music Awards website.

Celebrities Descend Upon New Hollywood Hotspot

The Stars are Shining Bright at Infusion Lounge Hollywood at Universal CityWalk

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., April 11, 2012 -- Glittering Hollywood celebrities have found a favorite new hangout. Infusion Lounge Hollywood, the glamorous new multi-level ultra lounge and nightclub at Universal CityWalk, is attracting a steady stream of stars from the television, film and music industries. Since opening last summer, Infusion Lounge Hollywood has already welcomed HBO, ABC and NBC personalities, a slew of reality stars, and an Emmy Awards viewing party in September which included more than 150 award-winning television actors, writers, directors and producers.

Pussycat Dolls lead singer Nicole Scherzinger, True Blood featured actress Natasha Alam , Celebrity Matchmaker Jasmine Diaz, Ryan Allen Carrillo and the 'Fab3' team from ABC-TV's Expedition Impossible, the Dark Knight's Eric Roberts, American Idol sensation Kimberly Cole, and DJ Enferno from Madonna's Sticky & Sweet World Tour have all been special guests. Film production wrap parties, movie premiere events and after-parties from Universal CityWalk's Gibson Amphitheater also fill the 9800 sq. ft. of entertainment space.

Infusion Lounge Hollywood has also been discovered by local Los Angeles hipsters and international fashionistas who pack the two dance floors Wednesday through Saturday nights. World-class DJs deliver nonstop energy, spinning the latest Top 40 mash-ups, hip hop samples, Latin beats and house music on the club's state-of-the-art sound system.

An enormous smoke-breathing Chinese dragon leads guests into the exotic Asian-inspired interior that features glowing spider web lattice walls, LED light towers, giant carved lacquer medallions and a sweeping staircase. Signature cocktails prepared by expert mixologists have an Asian twist, such as the Dragon Bellini, the Singapore Sling and the Lychee Martini.

Ideally located in one of the world's most exciting entertainment destinations, Infusion Lounge Hollywood at Universal CityWalk is conveniently situated just minutes from virtually everywhere in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, with easy freeway access and security covered parking.

Infusion Lounge Hollywood opens everyday at 6 PM with Happy Hour drink specials until 9 PM. Club hours keep the music going and the party happening until 2 AM Thursdays through Saturdays. More information, weekly DJ lineups, and deluxe bottle service reservations are available at la.infusionlounge.com.

About Infusion Lounge Hollywood at Universal CityWalk
Infusion Lounge Hollywood is a licensed concept of the Infusion Lounge Licensing Corporation and is managed by the C-Two Group.

SOURCE Infusion Lounge

Hollywood Leading Lady and American Icon Diane Keaton Poses for the Cover of AARP The Magazine and Speaks Candidly on Overcoming Bulimia, Life as a Single Mom and Staying "Forever Young"

WASHINGTON, March 22, 2012 -- As one of Hollywood's most beloved actresses, Diane Keaton has seen her share of remarkable Hollywood romances and unimaginable successes. In an exclusive interview with AARP The Magazine, the Oscar winner speaks openly on romance, parenting and plastic surgery. Tackling life as a single parent, the Darling Companion actress shares the challenges of raising two teenage children at age 66 while managing a busy career. After 40 years as a leading lady, the actress recently took on modeling, as a spokesperson for L'Oreal Paris and a line for Chico's, saying, "I never understood the idea that you're supposed to mellow as you get older."

The following are excerpts from the April/May issue of AARP The Magazine featuring Diane Keaton, available in homes March 24th and online NOW at www.aarp.org/magazine.

On Aging:
"Let me tell you the best part about getting older. The best part is that I'm still here and, because the end is in sight, I treasure it all more. That's why I don't worry about crying in a scene anymore. Now it comes easily. I know the emotion's all there."

"You have to live life that way, you know? Take risks. Do things you can't imagine. 'Cause hey, why not, right?"

"Slowing down isn't something I relate to at all. The goal is to continue in good and bad, all of it. To continue to express myself, particularly. To feel the world. To explore. To be with people. To take things far. To risk. To love. I just want to know more and see more."

On the Possibility of Plastic Surgery:

"I haven't had it, but never say never. Because when you do, you are definitely going to go there. I said I would never have intercourse before I was married, and I did. I said I would never go to a psychiatrist, and I spent much of my life in psychoanalysis. I've done all kinds of things I said I wouldn't do and, of course, now I'm glad. Thrilled."

On Her Love Life:

"I think it was just my whole life. How I responded first to boys and then to men. It had nothing to do with reality."

"Relationships are hard. You're lucky if you find someone."

In regards to romance, "It's not something I can visualize right now. The best relationships develop out of friendships. That's the shame. At this stage I don't correlate any of the friendships I have with sex, and, honestly, once you bring sex into a friendship—Ooh! Whew! Oh!—that's a slippery slope into disaster."

On Parenting:

"As a parent I provide all I can, but I think in the best possible scenario you need to have a man."

"At this point in my life, everything's throwing me punches from left and right, but it's certainly been an amazing adventure."

"I'm very aware that my dad died when he was 68, and my mother was in her early 70s when her brain really started to go. When I think about my kids in their 20s and 30s, and me in my 70s and 80s, I worry about that, definitely. I want to be there for them. I want my body and mind to stay strong, and to share all these life lessons. But I also know they need to have the freedom and independence to learn on their own."

On Her Battle with Bulimia:

"With bulimia, I never expected sympathy or for people to understand. What I cared about was the secret I kept. It felt like a burden. I never told my mother."

"It's amazing how the dark secrets inside us don't matter much to the outside world."

On Her Dream Role:

"A really out-there role where I let it all hang out. Get totally enraged. Go to an extreme. I have not really had that opportunity, and I hope it will happen."

PLUS: Don't miss what Kevin Kline , Lawrence Kasdan and Sarah Jessica Parker had to say about Diane Keaton in the full story, available now at www.aarp.org/magazine.

About AARP The Magazine
With nearly 35 million readers nationwide, AARP The Magazine (www.aarpmagazine.org) is the world's largest circulation magazine and the definitive lifestyle publication for Americans 50+. Reaching over 22 million households, AARP The Magazine delivers comprehensive content through in-depth celebrity interviews, health and fitness features, consumer interest information and tips, book and movie reviews and financial guidance. Published bimonthly in print and continually online, AARP The Magazine was founded in 1958 and is the flagship title of AARP Publications.

About AARP
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization with a membership that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates. We produce AARP The Magazine, the definitive voice for 50+ Americans and the world's largest-circulation magazine with nearly 35 million readers; AARP Bulletin, the go-to news source for AARP's millions of members and Americans 50+; AARP VIVA, the only bilingual U.S. publication dedicated exclusively to the 50+ Hispanic community; and our website, AARP.org. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

SOURCE AARP

Jumpstart Your Writing Career: The Path for Screenwriters Is a Winding Road

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., March 14, 2012 -- A man enters a screenplay to a competition, snags an agent, then turns that script into a novel. Another man enters the same competition, submits his screenplay, lands an agent and creates Latino 101, which is the highest-rated show on NuVoTV (an English language network targeted at Latinos).


This is just a couple of the many success stories from the Scriptapalooza Screenwriting Competition. Turning a script into a novel has actually happened before, former 1st place Scriptapalooza winner, Chris Carlyle, whose script, "The Trial of Alex Lord," was turned into a novel last fall.

Mark Andrushko, the founder of the Scriptapalooza, in its 14th year, promotes and pushes as many writers as he can, however he can. It is not uncommon to have production companies to contact Mark and request certain genres. "I get calls throughout the year from companies looking for material, it doesn't matter if the contest is closed, I try to help as many writers as possible!" said Andrushko.

This competition started as a small grassroots effort and has become an industry powerhouse. Mark is also not threatened by the dozens of overnight competitions that pop up all the time. "Scriptapalooza has remained true to its basic core belief of creating opportunities," said Andrushko. This heartfelt commitment to the undiscovered writer is the reason Scriptapalooza is still around, and why the other competitions usually fade into oblivion just as quickly as they sprouted.

The inscription on the novel The Dougherty Report by Frank Tumminia reads, "To Scriptapalooza, I could have not done this without you. Thanks for the support." And the man who created Latino 101 is Jason Nieves, whose show is in its 3rd season.
A winding road indeed, but if your end result is to be a paid writer, then submitting to Scriptapalooza Screenwriting Competition is a great start. Screenwriters who enter the competition may not win the grand prize, but rest assured that they have a man in the corner pushing them through the proverbial Hollywood door.

The final deadline to enter your screenplay is April 19, 2012.

http://www.scriptapalooza.com

The Scriptapalooza Screenplay Competition was founded in 1998 with the goal of discovering and promoting writers and creating opportunities for them in a fiercely competitive entertainment industry.

SOURCE Scriptapalooza Screenplay Competition

Los Angeles Turkish Film Festival Debuts at Egyptian Theater on March 1-4

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 21, 2012 -- The First Los Angeles Turkish Film Festival will host Turkey's top films and directors from March 1 to 4 at the Egyptian Theater in Hollywood. The festival will unspool five award-winning features including Semih Kaplanoglu's "Honey," winner of the Best Film Award at the 2010 Berlin Film Festival. There will also be Q&As and a short film competition, culminating with a red carpet and awards ceremony on Sunday, March 4.

"Turkish cinema has received a lot of international recognition in recent years," said Mehmet Gungoren, General Manager of LATFF. "We wanted to bring it to the heart of the film industry and give LA's cinema lovers a chance to see the work of these exciting filmmakers."

The festival will kick off with a screening of Dervis Zaim's "Shadows and Faces," which won the Best Film Award at the International Ankara Film Festival, followed by a Q&A. Zaim, who is head of this year's LATFF jury, is regarded as one of the founders of the New Turkish Cinema and has received worldwide acclaim for his work.

The other feature presentations are Seren Yuce's "Majority," winner of the Lion of the Year at the Venice Film Festival; Mahmut Fazil Coskun's "Wrong Rosary," winner of the Best Film Award at the Rotterdam Film Festival and Yesim Ustaoglu's "Pandora's Box," winner of Best Film at the San Sebastian Film Festival. The festival will wrap with Kaplanoglu's "Honey" followed by an awards presentation.

Judging the shorts competition is a prestigious line-up, including Barbara Boyle, long-time producer and Chair of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Film, TV and Digital Media department; Elvis Mitchell, film critic and host of "The Treatment" on KCRW; Kathy Evelyn Smith, Chair of the Animation and Digital Media Department at the University of California (USC); and Alin Tasciyan, a Turkish-Armenian film critic and Vice President of the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI).

The ten short film finalists will be screened throughout the festival and there will also be a special Short Shorts Corner of Japanese films.

Sponsors of LATFF include the Film Alliance, USC's School of Cinematic Arts and The Turkish Cultural and Tourism Ministry.

SOURCE The Los Angeles Turkish American Association

Bringing Up Oscar - The Story of the Men and Women Who Founded the Academy - by Debra Ann Pawlak

The untold story of the innovative pioneers who helped make movies the preeminent art form of the twentieth century by founding the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences—just in time for the 84th Academy Awards

NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2012  -- The founders of the now infamous Academy were a motley crew as individuals, but when they first converged in Hollywood, then just a small town with dirt roads, sparks flew and fueled a common dream: to bring artistic validity to their beloved new medium.

Today, movies are so ingrained in our culture it is hard to imagine a time when former cowpunchers, prospectors, vaudevillians, even junk dealers made up the rules as they went along. Prohibition and the Great Depression were keeping everyone on edge, and the business was rife with murders and drug scandals. Something had to happen. And so on January 11th, 1927, thirty-six members of Hollywood's elite and not-so-elite came together at the behest of MGM chief Louis B. Mayer. From Cecil B. DeMille to Mary Pickford, Harry M. Warner, who owned a bike shop before launching the revolutionary "talkie" The Jazz Singer, even Joseph M. Schenk, freed from jail just in time to discover Marilyn Monroe – each guest was more colorful than the last. Although they didn't know it yet, these thirty-six achievers and dreamers gave birth to a golden child.

Who were these movers and shakers who would change movies forever? And what about Oscar, their famous son? He is fast approaching his 100th birthday, and is still the undisputed king of Hollywood. Yet with such dynamic parents, what else could we expect?
 
In Debra Pawlak's new book, Bringing Up Oscar, readers will learn, as Pawlak tells USA TODAY in an interview, all about these 36 founders. "They were from all walks of life, but in 1927, these were all people who were at the top of their game in Hollywood," Pawlak says. And what was their motivation? "Movies were getting bad press. Temperance groups had succeeded in outlawing alcohol, so they turned their attention to Hollywood. There was no place in the industry where people could come with their disputes, and people in the industry needed to support one another," Pawlak continues in the interview. The Wall Street Journal explains further that "to a great extent, the formation of the Academy was an act of aspirational pride. Within little more than 20 years, the American movie itself had morphed from a parlor amusement into an art form of subtlety, grace and astonishing commercial success. The Academy's founders wanted recognition for their life's work, and they knew they wouldn't get it from New York, whose theatrical and literary hierarchies would never admit that the movies had achieved a standing equivalent to that of the older arts."

Critics, newspapers and industry insiders have all welcomed Pawlak's efforts and bringing the life stories of these great figures in film history to the forefront for a new generation of readers. Michael Deeley, the Academy Award-winning producer of The Deer Hunter and the author of Blade Runners, Deer Hunters, and Blowing the Bloody Doors Off says that Pawlak's book is "a thoroughly researched and very entertaining portrait of the men and women whose energy and talent created today's world-wide American film industry." Booklist has called Bringing Up Oscar a "fascinating account" and Publishers Weekly raved that "by skillfully weaving [these] highlights of Hollywood history throughout this Tinseltown tapestry, Pawlak succeeds in recreating that colorful era when flickers turned into features and silents converted to sound."

ABOUT DEBRA ANN PAWLAK...
Debra Ann Pawlak has spent over ten years writing about Hollywood history. She is the author of Farmington and Farmington Hills, for Arcadia's "Making of America" series, and has written a screenplay about Clara Bow. She lives in southeastern Michigan and is available for interviews at any time.

SOURCE Debra Ann Pawlak

Tony Bennett, Ray Romano & Phil Donahue Headline St. Jude Children's Research Hospital® 50th Anniversary Gala Benefit On January 7, 2012

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 20, 2011 -- Tony Bennett, Ray Romano and Phil Donahue will headline the celebration as stars from the entertainment industry show their support for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital's 50th anniversary with a benefit gala in Los Angeles on January 7, 2012. Tony Bennett, a personal friend of St. Jude founder – the late entertainer Danny Thomas – will perform for the star-studded crowd along with Ray Romano, a good friend of the Thomas family and an ardent supporter of St. Jude, to help commemorate what would have been Thomas' 100th birthday. The 50th anniversary gala honors St. Jude's commitment to saving the lives of children fighting cancer and other deadly diseases.

"My father always said there would be no St. Jude without Hollywood," said Tony Thomas, son of Danny Thomas and one of the gala's co-chairs. "He spent the 1950's raising money for his dream, to build a hospital for research and care under one roof for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. He reached out to his entertainment friends, who we now know as legends, to put on benefits around the country to raise money for a hospital yet to be built. Today, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital stands as a beacon of hope for families across America. My father would be so proud that Hollywood continues to support the hospital."

To honor Thomas' memory, the black tie audience will be entertained by the incomparable Tony Bennett as he performs from his latest album. Ray Romano will perform a special birthday tribute. Phil Donahue, husband of Danny's daughter, actress Marlo Thomas, will emcee the gala with members of the Thomas family on site. The gala will also feature a presentation from the United States Postal Service. Marlo Thomas, Tony Thomas, Terre Thomas and Robert Ellis serve as co-chairs of the event.

"Danny Thomas was an exceptionally generous man and I loved having had the opportunity to know him," said Tony Bennett, "He passed along his giving spirit to his family and I know he would be so proud that his mission to help children through St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has continued on so successfully. I am thrilled to be part of the 50th Anniversary to celebrate this wonderful organization and honor Danny."

Celebrities confirmed to join the celebration include Jason Bateman, Julie Bowen, Diahann Carroll, Cindy Crawford, Marcia Cross, Hilary and Haylie Duff, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Daisy Fuentes, Lance Gross, Jon Hamm, Harry Hamlin, Jared Harris, Mila Kunis, Maggie Lord, Elisabeth Moss, Elise Neal, Marisol Nichols, Jaime Pressly, Raven-Symone, Lisa Rinna, Amanda Seyfried, William Shatner, Cybill Shepherd, John Slattery, Alison Sweeney, Amber Valletta , Patrick Warburton, and heroic pilot Captain Chesley Sullenberger and astronaut Buzz Aldrin. The 50th anniversary celebration will be held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 7, 2012.

"As we embark on the year-long celebration of the opening of St. Jude 50 years ago, it is only fitting that we pay tribute at this special event to Danny Thomas, our founder and our most passionate champion," said Rick Shadyac Jr., CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising organization of St. Jude. "If Danny were still with us today, I know he would be touched by the army of supporters who have embraced St. Jude and joined the fight against childhood cancer and other deadly diseases."

Founded in 1962 with a mission to save the lives of children everywhere, St. Jude visionary and founder, entertainer Danny Thomas wanted to create a hopeful place that was accepting of all children whether or not the family could afford treatment. Today, St. Jude is the only children's hospital where a child is never turned away if a family can't pay and no family pays St. Jude for anything. For 50 years, St. Jude has made great discoveries in how to treat deadly childhood diseases like cancer, saving the lives of kids across America. Research at St. Jude has changed how the world treats leukemia, brain tumors, and sickle cell, pushing survival rates for childhood cancers from less than 20 percent in 1962 to almost 80 percent today.

About St. Jude Children's Research Hospital:

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is internationally recognized for its pioneering research and treatment of children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The hospital's research has helped push overall survival rates for childhood cancer from less than 20 percent when the institution opened to almost 80 percent today. It is the first and only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children, and no family ever pays St. Jude for care. For more information, go to http://www.stjude.org/ and follow St. Jude on www.facebook.com/stjude and www.twitter.com/stjude.

SOURCE St. Jude Children's Research Hospital