Oscar Awards 2010 Update

Oscar.com, the official online home of the 82nd Academy Awards. . Oscar.com's must-see site content. Select a category to explore. . ?2010 The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences & ABC, Inc. All Rights Reserved. . 82nd Academy Awards Nominees Jeff Bridges, Sandra Bullock, Matt Damon, Anna Kendrick, Carey Mulligan and Quentin Tarantino to Present on Oscar Show . Academy Awards - Events & Exhibitions - Contact - Members/ - Cached - Similar82nd Academy Awards and the Oscars | Academy of Motion Picture . 82nd Annual Academy Awards ? Sunday, March 7, 2010 . Oscar Nominees Luncheon. See coverage of the 82nd Academy Awards Nominees Luncheon, . Press Release - Rules & Eligibility - Historyacademyawards/index.html - Cached - SimilarShow more results from ideo results for Oscar Awards 2010 Update2010 Academy Awards Oscar Nominations4 min 36 sec - Feb 2, 2010he Oscar Awards 20101 min 55 sec - Aug 30, 2009scar Winner Predictions for the 2010 Academy Awards - Who Will Win?Who will win 2010 Oscars? Ge our complete Oscar predictions for the 2010 Academy Award winners.Jan 25, 2010 . This past weekend the race for 2010 Oscar got just a bit more debatable, with some surprise winners walking away from both the Producers . Oscars: The 2010 Update! 18 January 2010 1:01 PM, PST | Rope of Silicon | See . Globe winners and how they compared to that same year's Oscar awards. . Feb 2, 2010 . Oscar Nominations 2010 List Schedule Date Time Announcement News Update Summary ...



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Oscar Awards 2010 Set Pictures

Feb 17, 2010 . Oscar 2010 set · Adam Shankman, Bill Mechanic, David Rockwell. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and 82nd Academy Awards . Nominees for the 82nd Academy Awards. Ooops! You need flash. Group photo from the Oscar Nominees Luncheon on February 15, 2010. . The full list of the 2010 Oscar nominees from Oscar.com, the official site of the 82nd Academy . Rick Carter and Robert Stromberg (Art Direction); Kim Sinclair (Set Decoration) . .. The Official Academy Awards web site is produced by ABC.com in partnership with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. . The 82nd annual Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles has been scheduled for . Date set for 2010 Oscars. Published: March. 25, 2009 at 5:55 PM. Article . The announcement was made by Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences . Oscar winners 2010 list - find out who won Oscars at the 82nd annual Academy Awards. . OSCARS PHOTOS. Sexiest Stars on the Red Carpet -- Ever . . Art Direction: Rick Carter and Robert Stromberg; Set Decoration: Kim Sinclair . A model of the Academy Awards show set is unveiled at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) . NAACP Image Awards 2010 arrivals · Preparations for the 82nd Academy Awards . See More Photos & Video . Mar 5, 2010 . Here we go again for the 2010 Oscars. The Academy Awards . Set Decoration: Maggie Gray. Best in cinematography Oscars 2010 nominees: . Best in music written for motion pictures Oscars 2010 ...



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Buy Movies Online

Life is busy now, and in this busy schedule, everybody needs some entertainment. Movies have always played an important role in entertaining people. A film or a movie can make us feel fantasy, fiction, comedy and many other things related to real life.

Going to a theatre to watch a movie is a big challenge and standing in a queue to find or book tickets is even a bigger chase. But now we have many alternatives to going to the movie hall like movie rentals and online movie store where we can buy/rent a movie VCD, DVD or CD right from the comfort of our home or office.

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• Cost-effectiveness - With small amount online subscriptions, we can have a fair deal to watch a good number of movies which is surely cheaper than the market price. You can purchase new DVDs as well as used DVDs with the movie selection of your choice.


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Amit Verma is SEO with Neuro Seo Services, SEO Company and writes about Buy and rent movies online. Just Signup at Online movies store, MovieMart to buy original DVDs and VCDs.

Academy Award Nominations 2010

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Best Actress Winner 2010 Sandra Bullock grabs Oscar 2010 Best Ac

urprisingly Sandra Bullock captured the Oscars 2010 Best Actress Award last night in the currently concluded Oscars Academy Awards. Best Actress Winner 2010: Sandra Bullock grabs Oscar 2010 Best Actress Award, millions of fans are geared up to witness the most prestigious awards functions of the year. Oscar Awards 2010 is scheduled to air on Sunday, March 07, 2010 starting at 5pm PT or 8pm ET in Kodak Theatre in LA. The Oscars 2010 is proudly presented by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, in which will honor and proclaim the best films of 2009. The Academy Awards 2010 would typically follow its ceremony that begins with the red carpet big entrance of the stars followed by the Academy Awards winners 2010 and lot of fun. In the Best Picture of the year category would feature a massive ten nominees for the top flick in 2009. The nominations are Avatar, A Serious Man, An Education, Blind Side, The Hurt Locker, District 9, Up, Up in the Air, Inglorious Basterds and Precious. Its unsure which film will take home this prestigious at the end of the show, since many of these movies have already won the award at other awards shows. Yet the strongest competition will be between Avatar and The Hurt Locker. Among the actors and actresses nominated for their work are some Hollywood icons in Morgan Freeman, George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Sandra Bullock and Matt Damon. Jeff Bridges is the sloppy favorite to win the Best Actor Oscar, while Sandra Bullock has claimed Best ...



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PSA Production - Five Tips For Producing Effective Public Service Announcements

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Five Tips on PSA Production

1. Where do we start with PSA production?

Before embarking on PSA production for any campaign, it is critical to understand the full context of the message, the audience, the existing 'brand', and any collateral materials that will be distributed in conjunction with the public service announcement. We do not employ any kind of magic 'template' for a PSA, as every message is unique, and needs to be custom tailored to best reach its audience. PSA production techniques may range widely based on who the audience is and writing style, shooting and editing should ultimately be dictated based on what is known about the target audience and any secondary audiences. All nuances of the campaign should be considered - what is the end call to action? What do people already think or know about the subject matter? What are some of the common hot buttons around the issue? What are some of the common objections to the issue/cause? What is the projected life span of the PSA? All of these answers, along with a host of additional questions and answers will best prepare you to create a campaign that most effectively leverages your messaging platform, and speaks directly to your audience.

2. How much will the public service announcement cost?

Cost-affecting factors include PSA production parameters such as: how many shooting days? Shooting on film vs. video? How large a crew? Specialty equipment needed like cranes, Steadicams, dollys, etc? Location shooting or studio shooting? Customized props or sets? Union or non-union actors? What types of talent? Are there music and talent usage rights? Library music or original composition? How elaborate a graphics / animation package?, etc. We pride ourselves on our ability to create public service announcement campaigns based around client dictated budgets whether they be small, medium or large and on the fact that we can execute effective campaigns based on either very established brands, or beginning from scratch.

3. Where/When will the public service announcement air?

It is critical to manage expectations with regards to public service announcement airings. Unlike paid commercial advertising, the airing of a PSA is entirely at the discretion of local station PSA directors. These people are literally inundated with PSA products and pitches from various groups trying to get their messages out. Depending on the timeliness of the issue, the personal sensibilities of the PSA directors, the relevance of the message to the stations' specific demographic and a host of other intangibles, there is never any guarantee that a public service announcement will see the airwaves. Subsequently, it is important to strategize your PSA marketing campaign to best utilize the information on hand to maximize station airings.

4. How long should our public service announcement be?

Typically, a PSA is versioned as both a:30 and a:60 second spot. This increases likelihood of airings since stations can have some flexibility in filling in either time slot. Often:10's and / or:15's are created as well.

5. What can we expect from the PSA production process?

Our 'typical' process would unfold as follows:

- Discovery / Q&A - Concept Development (we would propose several generally sketched out ideas for client approval)

- Final Approach (based on feedback from Concept Development stage, we would fully flesh out a particular concept)

- Pre-production (planning, storyboards (when appropriate), schedule development and hiring of key individuals)

- Execution (PSA production, post-production and final formatting)

- Delivery to Distributor (we work closely with the distributor to ensure delivery of high quality formats and appropriate collateral such as final script, screen grabs for packaging, etc.)

Dave Braun runs BFVI a top Washington DC video production company specializing in public service announcement production.

7 Ways to Stimulate Your Employees in a Poor Economy

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You can not turn on today's news without hearing about the large numbers of employees losing their jobs on a daily basis. More and more companies are having to make tremendous cuts in staffing in order to stay afloat. So what about the employees who are left behind, what can you do to stimulate their full potential?

I have put together a few of ideas that are easy to do and virtually at no cost to your company.

1. A Pat On The Back

A pat on the back can go a long way. This is a great way to reward employees who do an outstanding job. You can then place a notice of the award in their employee file. Studies have shown that recognition is the most significant reward for employees and will prolong their loyalty to a company.

2. Dedicate A Piece Of The Office

Your employees are a vital component to the success of your company so why not remind them everyday. Dedicating pieces of office equipment with a small name plaque will make them feel valued and appreciated. When employees see their name displayed they become proud and thankful which they then share with their colleagues, friends and families for years to come.

3. Adopt An Official Office Mascot

Adopt a large stuffed animal mascot. Have a contest to select a name. Then each week the mascot is taken to a different department with a note from the previous team. This creates teamwork among different departments and also increases employee morale.

4. Go On A Field Trip

Take a short walk as a group outside of the office. This is a great way for employees to interact and get a bid of fresh air. You can even take different groups around the office to say hello to other departments. With more employees keeping to themselves at work, this is a great way to build employee interaction and create conversation.

5. Special Events

Share special employee moments with the team. This could be a new child in the family, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. It is always nice to show others that there is a lot that goes on outside of the work place. Make sure the employee is comfortable with everyone knowing before making any announcements.

6. A Picture Is Worth A 1000 Words

Ask your employees to bring in their baby pictures and place them on a collage in the break room. Have a contest in which employees try to identify them by placing their entries in a small box. The winner (s) can get a $5.00 gift card. This is a great way to demonstrate to employees your interest in their lives outside of work.

7. Plant A Tree

With more and more companies making an effort to go green why not join the cause. You can have each department plant a tree together which they can then watch grow everyday. This is a great way to demonstrate camaraderie and team spirit.

As you use these simple ideas you will notice that your employees will come to appreciate and value them. In these hard times a little can go a long way in helping keep your employees motivated and happy.

About the author: Oscar Urrutia is an Innovative Eco-Friendly Event Organizer with GEC Events. He writes about employee motivational ideas along with what is new in the event industry. Visit his blog at http://gecevents.blogspot.com/. For more information on GEC Events call 800-769-5137 | or visit http://www.GECEvents.com

Corporate Catering

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If you are in charge of planning a corporate event, you are probably most concerned about the budget you have. When it comes to catering the event, there are many considerations that have to be made. One is what type of menu you will serve and how to accommodate those people that have special needs like vegetarians, diabetics and people who are allergic to certain foods. These considerations are important whether you are planning an office gathering or a large corporate tradeshow, annual meeting, gala, etc.

A good caterer can cost a lot of money, but the competition today is great, and there are ways to negotiate with a reputable catering company. That being said, you must remember that anyone attending your event will remember the food served and the amount offered. You must never skimp on a menu. If you run out of food, the conversation after the event will surely focus on that fact. Also, consider all the guests attending the event and make sure that you discuss alternative dishes for those who request them. This means you have to indicate a choice on your invitation or announcement.

What to Look for in Los Angeles Corporate Catering

Meet with the caterer ahead of time and sample some different menus. Make sure that the company maintains a professional attitude and hires top-notch food preparers and wait staff. This can also make or break an event. A timely professionally served meal with fabulous food will tell guests that you care, and they will not forget it.

Catering provides detailed information on Catering, Catering Services, Catering Trucks, Catering Supplies and more. Catering is affiliated with New York City Restaurants.

2010 Oscar Nominations Announcement

2010 Oscar Nominations Announcement Nominations for the 82nd Academy Awards® were announced Tuesday, February 2nd by Academy President Tom Sherak and actress Anne Hathaway. Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin will team up as co-hosts of the 82nd Annual Academy Awards. The Oscar telecast will take place Sunday, March 7 at 5 pm PT/8 pm ET



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Oscar nominations 2010 list (announcement best picture)

theoscars2010.com - watch all nominated movies online



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Letting Provence out of the Bottle

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This is the time of year when the insistent heat and stark light of summer have retreated and Provence is bathed in a warm, golden glow that is like a lingering caress before the harsher days of winter. The mellow autumn season is the perfect time to explore this little piece of paradise on earth, which is also the oldest wine-growing region of France.

Vineyards have been part of Provence's sunlit landscapes ever since Greek sailors first landed on its shores in the 6th century BC. The rows upon rows of grapevines that stretch their dark, gnarled branches up to the sun are as much a part of the region's scenery and history as the tortured shapes of the olive trees, which they resemble.

Now that the main stream of visitors has departed, making it possible to ramble at leisure, stopping when and where the spirit moves you, for a meal or an overnight stay, let us take you on a tour of five of the region's quality wine-growing areas.

In each one, we give you a simple recipe for earthly bliss: take a couple of outstanding vineyards, add a choice of nearby gourmet restaurants and charming hotels -- some of which can be found under one roof -- and savour the combination in a setting that is one of Nature's masterpieces.
The first vines were indeed planted on the coast by the Greeks, when they founded Marseille, but it was the Romans who deserve the credit for spreading vineyards throughout Provence. Now, they carpet the region, from its Mediterranean seaboard to its verdant inland valleys and forested hills, right up to its sculptured mountain ranges.

In Roman times, all the wine produced was rosé, and that is still the colour of wine most often associated with Provence. But in addition to light, fruity rosés, perfect for summer drinking, the region also produces a wide range of hearty reds and some surprisingly crisp whites. The grapes traditionally used for its reds are local varieties such as Mourvèdre (known as the dog-strangler!), Tibouren and Cinsault, now being blended with international names such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Grenache. The whites are a marriage of Provencal old-timers like Clairette, Ugni Blanc and Marsanne, and relative newcomers to the region like Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.

Since 1935, when France developed a strict system of wine laws, the highest quality wines from a specified area are granted A.O.C status -- Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée. It is a tightly defined certification of origin, ensuring that wines with the A.O.C. label have met a long list of requirements, including permitted grape varieties, maximum yields, minimum alcohol levels and vinification techniques.

The wine-growing areas of Provence that follow have all earned the appellation classification: one as long ago as 1936, one as recently as 1995. With that kind of quality assured, you will find the wines sliding down so easily that we thought it best to provide a choice of nearby hotel/restaurants where you can rest from your tastings and gather strength for the next lap of your tour.

All the vineyards we describe are happy to have you come and taste their wines, and the vast majority have English-speaking staff. The opening hours we list at the end of the article were correct at time of going to press, but it never hurts to give them a call before you go, just to check that there have been no changes.

Finally, before we start, let us be quite clear that we will be taking just a few small sips from the vast and varied wine cellar that is Provence. We are merely uncorking some sample bottles for you at a handful of remarkable vineyards. The region has countless other liquid assets for you to discover and add to your own personal address book. A votre santé!

Cassis: The oldest AOC in Provence (1936)

Let us begin at the very beginning, down on the Mediterranean Coast. Not far from where Greek sailors founded Marseille 26 centuries ago, the pastel-colored little port of Cassis nestles at the foot of Cap Canaille, France's highest sea-cliff. From its picturesque harbour you can take a boat tour of the calanques, inlets of crystalline, deep-blue water carved into the white limestone coastline, or take the more energetic option of admiring their transparent depths from above, by hiking along the well-marked, spectacular GR98-51 trail that borders the coast.

Once the view of those sparkling depths has worked up a thirst, internal refreshment is at hand, in the form of the excellent wines of Cassis, a unique phenomenon in Provence. In contrast to all the other wine-growing areas, which produce mainly reds and rosés, a good 75% of the wines of Cassis are crisp, clean whites, which are the ideal table companion to the famous local fish stew, bouillabaisse.

On the hillside above Cassis stands Château de Fontcreuse, a stately home once belonging to Colonel Teed, a British Army officer who fell in love with the area and launched himself into winemaking in 1922. Nowadays the estate is run on exemplary lines by Jean-François Brando, the head of the Cassis vintners' syndicate.

In the village of Cassis itself, and blissfully free of any bus tours, since they cannot park nearby, is the elegant Clos Sainte-Magdeleine, which has most of its grapes, all organically grown, planted in terraces on the slopes of Cap Canaille, around the impressive Art Deco mansion. Its floral whites, with a definite tang of the sea to them, simply cry out for some fresh seafood to accompany them.
You will find a wide choice of restaurants serving just that on the seafront. One of the best is Nino +33 (0)4 42 01 74 32 (Menu: 32EUR).. Their bouillabaisse is the genuine article and the service is relaxed and friendly. Just a little way out of Cassis, in an idyllic setting at the tip of the diminutive presqu'ile (promontory) of Port Miou, La Presqu'Ile (+33 (0)4 42 01 03 77 Menus: 29 -- 46EUR) is worth seeking out for its combination of wonderful food with a wonderfully romantic sea view. To either work up an appetite or work off your meal, there are five seaside tennis courts that can be rented by the hour.

If you would like to watch the sun set over the sea, you have until November 1 to book into Les Roches Blanches (+33 (0)4 42 01 09 30; rooms 90 - 260EUR) a 24-room, 4-star hotel in a superb setting, which closes for the winter. The nearby 27-room Hôtel de la Rade (+33 (0)4 42 01 02 97 ; Rooms 90 - 140EUR) stays open year-round and will give you the impression of going on a cruise, without ever leaving shore. Poised over the sea, its teak terrace with canvas-covered railings sets the nautical theme, which carries on inside, with seashell décor and brass portholes.

Bandol: The best-known AOC of Provence (1941)

A short, scenic drive east of Cassis, the Bandol region spreads around the resort of Bandol, with terraced vineyards climbing from the sea up to the Sainte Baume mountain range.
"Quality, not quantity," is the motto of the area's winegrowers, and they adhere to a punishing set of regulations to live up to that credo. Fresh rosés account for 55% of Bandol wines, but it is the gutsy, long-lived reds made from the distinctive Mourvèdre grape and aged in oak casks for at least 18 months, that have made the area's reputation.

On Sunday, December 4, Bandol will hold its annual Fête du Millésime, a great opportunity to taste the new wines of this year's harvest. There is always a theme - it is "Games" this year -- and the wine producers have great fun getting dressed up. Join the crowd, which is plentiful but happy, wandering along the port from tent to tent, sampling and spitting, either into the spittoons provided, or directly into the sea. By the end of the day, the fish in the harbour must have a hard time swimming a straight line!

Like most beach towns, Bandol has a string of seafood restaurants along the seafront. One of the best is the busy Auberge du Port (+33 (0)4 94 29 42 63; Menus: 32 -- 42EUR). If you go for the Wine Fair, make very sure you reserve! The more casual Wine Bar of the Auberge, the oldest one in Bandol, serves an eminently reasonable 18EUR menu of grilled meats and fish, with wines by the glass.

Some of the greatest Bandol reds, with a life expectancy of 20 years or more in good years, come from Château Pradeaux, which has been in the Portalis family since 1752. Just outside the beach town of Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, with a perpetual sea breeze protecting the vines from diseases, the château was designed in the style of a Roman villa. It is covered in rambling roses, and has an assortment of friendly dogs snoozing in various corners.

Right in Saint-Cyr, is the four-star, 133-room Dolce Frégate (+33 (0)4 94 29 39 39; Rooms: 147 -- 560EUR), a hotel with every modern comfort and convenience, as well as one of the top ranked golf courses in France. Its facilities also include an indoor heated pool, 3 tennis courts and a spa.
Just 15 minutes away, at the foot of the medieval hilltop hamlet of la Cadière d'Azur, Alain Pascal, the new star among Bandol vintners, named his domain, Le Gros'Noré, in memory of his father, a corpulent man called Honoré, or 'Noré, for short. Alain, a former boxer, is a man who does not mince his words or compromise -- particularly on the quality of his wines. Since 1997 he has been producing an outstanding red and a superb Mourvèdre-dominated rosé.

At the top of the village, L'Hostellerie Bérard (+33 (0)4 94 90 11 43; Rooms: 80 -- 259EUR; Menus from 44EUR) is an inviting stop for a meal or for the night. Both a welcoming 40-room inn housed in an 11th C convent and a fine regional restaurant, it has a superb view from its luminous dining room. Chef René Bérard shares his palpable love and knowledge of Provençal food in the 4-day cooking courses he runs every month except January and August.

Côtes de Provence: The Biggest AOC of Provence (1977)

With a sprawling 45,000 acres of vines dispersed from Aix-en-Provence to Nice, this appellation offers wines of every colour and style. Rosés make up 75% of the production, reds account for 20% and whites for just 5%.

The quickest way to get an overview of the immense quantity of vineyards is to visit the area's Maison des Vins - the Vinotheque -- in the medieval town of Les Arcs, on the river Argens. You are close to some spectacular scenery here, like the Pennafort gorges, where water cascades down deep-red rocks crowned by umbrella pines. At the Vinotheque you can sample a free selection of Côtes de Provence that changes every week and buy, at producers' prices, any of the 600 wines that are kept in stock.

In the idyllic countryside just outside Les Arcs, is Château Sainte-Roseline, a state-of-the-art vineyard located in a 12th century abbey. It is visited both for its consistently good reds, whites and rosés, and for its Romanesque chapel, containing an immense mosaic by Chagall and, in a crystal reliquary, the remarkably well-preserved 14th corpse of Sainte-Roseline herself.

Also in Les Arcs is the recently built, magnificent Château Font du Broc, which combines two noble pursuits: winemaking and horse breeding. The château, with its stupendous Gothic-vaulted cellar, took four years of work and would be worth visiting even if you did not want to taste the wines. You would be wrong to pass them up, however. Everything on this grand estate, where peacocks strut around self-importantly, is opulent and well made, and the luscious, prize-winning reds, as well as the full-bodied rosés, are no exception.

For dinner and the night, visit another marvel in the area: Chez Bruno (+33 (0) 4 94 85 93 93; Menu 56 - 110 EUR; Rooms: 84 -- 130EUR), the truffle king of Lorgues. A genial, generous giant, Bruno will greet you in person, with the warmth of a long-time friend. He also beams down as Jesus, from a humoristic mural of the Last Supper painted on the walls of his restaurant! Do not take offence, but do take second helpings! The truffle menus are a gastronomic experience not to be missed, and four rooms await those who wish to digest them in peace.

Opposite the deep-red cliffs of the Pennafort gorges, floodlit at night, the idyllic, Michelin-starred Hostellerie Les Gorges de Pennafort +33 (0)4 94 76 66 51; Menus: 49 -- 110EUR; Rooms: 185 -- 220EUR) is a destination no self-respecting gourmet should pass by. Its ebullient owner and chef, Philippe Da Silva, dishes up such delicacies as a divine foie gras ravioli with Parmesan, and he always adds little extras, leaving you groaning with pleasure at the end of the meal. His wife Martine watches over the elegant, 16-room hotel, making sure that everything is of the same high standard as her husband's cooking.

Côteaux d'Aix-en-Provence : The Most Elegant AOC of Provence (1985)

Stretching from the Durance River south to the Mediterranean, and from Mont Sainte-Victoire west to the Rhône Valley, this appellation covers some 4,000 hectares, where 75 vignerons produce 50% rosés, 45% reds and 5% whites. The rosés are fruity and easy-to-like, and the top reds do not just resemble Bordeaux because of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape used in them, but also for their ability to age well.

The region's centrepiece is the lovely town of Aix-en-Provence, which charms all who visit with its splashing fountains, honey-coloured mansions, lively cafés and fashionable shops. The great painter Paul Cézanne was born and died here in 1906. To celebrate the centenary of his death next year, Aix, together with the National Art Gallery of Washington, is organizing a fabulous, not-to-be-missed exhibition of 110 of his works in the town's newly renovated Granet Art Museum.

If you want to savour the charms of Aix, make the Hôtel Le Pigonnet (+33 (0)4 42 59 02 90; Rooms: 200 - 380EUR) your base for vineyard exploration. Set in showpiece grounds on the southern outskirts of town, it is privately owned, impeccably run and has a restaurant that is an attraction in its own right.

From Aix, it is a short drive northwest along the N7 to one of the most gracious wine estates of the appellation. Château de Beaupré, a former stagecoach relay, was planted with vines in the late 19th C by Baron Emile Double. You will be warmly welcomed at the stately château with its courtyard and fountains, very likely by the present Baron Double in person. He pours tasting samples generously from the estate's expanding range of wines in all colours. Particularly good and good-value, are the red and white Château de Beaupré.

Beautiful châteaux like Beaupré, with vineyards attached, are plentiful in the Aix countryside. A recent addition to this collection of architectural gems, only 7 km north of Aix, is the splendid Domaine de la Brillane. Built from the ground up within the last five years, the magnificent ochre-coloured building overlooks 18 hectares of vines that predate it, but had to be nursed back to health by the domain's charming and energetic creator, Rupert Birch. Together with Mary Mertens, his partner in all of life's adventures, he produces three organic reds that have quickly started earning enthusiastic praise from the wine trade. Five tastefully decorated chambres d'hôtes, with sublime views out of every window, give you the chance to experience the daily life of the vineyard first-hand.

One of the restaurant addresses Rupert and Mary may well share with you is the Relais Sainte Victoire (+33 (0)4 42 66 94 98; Menus: 25 - 65EUR) right at the foot of the magic mountain of Aix, which Cézanne painted so many times. Its jovial owner René Bergès made headlines this spring when he decided to hand back his Michelin star because he was tired of the constant pressure of having to live up to the restaurant guide's high expectations. Since his announcement, he has lowered his prices, but not his standards, and more people than ever have been coming to enjoy his Provençal specialties.

In surroundings that have none of the natural splendour of the Relais, right beside a large shopping centre 5 km to the south of Aix, the 30-room Château de la Pioline (+33 (0)4 42 52 27 27; Rooms: 185 -- 290EUR: Menus: 45 - 60EUR) proves that beauty can survive in the unlikeliest places. Blessedly sheltered by a wooded park from the sounds and sights of frenetic commerce outside, the 16th C century, beautifully restored château is a hidden jewel. Young, talented chef Olivier Brissy serves classy cuisine in the classic beauty of the Golden Drawing room.

Les Baux-de-Provence: The Most Distinctive AOC of Provence (1995)

An easy hour's drive east of Aix-en-Provence, the Alpilles mountain chain lifts its chiseled profile to the sky. Girdled by olive groves, almond orchards and vineyards, it is crowned by the dramatic ruins of the medieval citadel of Les Baux, from which the mighty warlords of the area, known and feared as a "race of eagles" surveyed their domain.

The vineyards, spread below, were once part of the Côteaux d'Aix-en-Provence area, but earned their own appellation for the reds and rosés, which account for 90% of the area's production, in 1995. By nature, they are wines with a marked earthy character that sets them apart. Organic and biodynamic production methods are gaining ground among the local vintners, who believe in working with nature's rhythms to make the most unadulterated wines possible.

Biodynamic methods, which avoid all use of synthetic chemicals and treat the vineyard as a living entity to be respected, have been applied ever since 1989 at Château Romanin, just a few kilometres east of St. Remy. The cellar, a magnificent underground cathedral dug into the mountainside, is a magical place, built on tellurian principles, i.e. on intersecting planetary force lines. Whether you believe in such power fields or not, the complex reds and refreshing rosés made under its soaring arches regularly win awards.

A short drive, punctuated by a succession of breath-taking vistas, will take you to La Cabro d'Or (+33 (0)4 90 54 33 21; Menus: 45 -- 85EUR; Rooms: 180 - 450 EUR) an idyllic 31-room auberge set amongst lovely gardens at the foot of Les Baux. The cuisine is Michelin-starred, yet you can eat there for 45EUR because its young chef, Michel Hulin, is more interested in client satisfaction than a big profit margin. La Cabro closes from November to mid-December, reopening in time to treat yourself with a special meal during the Christmas season.

Within a couple of kilometers, in the hamlet of le Paradou, the 15-room Domaine Le Hameau des Baux (+33 (0)49 54 10 30; Rooms: 170 -- 210EUR) is one of those special addresses to share with close friends. A collection of character-filled old buildings -- a barn, a cabanon, a chapel, a dovecote and a mill - have been restored with impeccable taste, keeping the relaxed feel of a private home, with just the right dash of contemporary boldness.

The second wine estate around Les Baux we suggest you visit, is a veritable showpiece outside Fontvielle, near the windmill that inspired the French author Alphonse Daudet to write his "Lettres de mon moulin". Château d'Estoublon, originally built in the 15thC by Benedictine monks, was burnt down during the Wars of Religion and rebuilt in the 18th C. In January 1999 it was purchased by the Schneider family, owners of Breitling watches. They spared no expense or energy to renovate the buildings and replant and revive the vineyard and olive groves. The estate has converted to organic winemaking and called in Eloi Dürrbach, one of France's top vintners, to provide expert help in producing wines that are full of character, tasting of the soil on which they grow. A visit to Estoublon gives you the opportunity to sample both the domain's wines and its excellent olive oils.

From there, pick one of several scenic routes to take you back up past les Baux, to the chic little town of Saint Rémy de Provence, with its tempting boutiques and markets. Many international movie stars prefer its more discreet charm to the resorts on the Mediterranean coast. To be pampered like a star, stop over in the sumptuous Hostellerie du Vallon de Valrugues Tel: +33 (0) 4 90 92 04 40 Rooms : 150 - 260EUR). Its many hedonistic comforts include a gastronomic restaurant (Menus: 53 - 88 EUR) a spa, a private putting green, a billiard room, tennis courts and, of course, a glamorous swimming pool.

Provence, Personally Yours Made-to-Measure, Made-for-Pleasure Tours of Provence with Journalist Ester Laushway Because no two of us are exactly alike, your holiday in Provence deserves to be one-of-a-kind. I would like to help you make it a unique, personal experience – not difficult in Provence! Besides spectacular scenery, a long, rich history and vibrant culture, nearly perfect climate, outstanding food and wine, there is an exuberant passion for life in the air here: the master chefs, vintners, gardeners, and craftsmen all draw inspiration from this little piece of earthly paradise called Provence.

As a journalist working here for the past ten years, I have been lucky enough to meet many of these talented, passionate people, who hold the secret of how to turn living from an act into an art. It would be my pleasure to share my love of Provence and my private address book with you, by taking you on a personalized tour to special restaurants, secret gardens and outstanding vineyards.

For further details, please contact:
Ester LAUSHWAY Tel: +33 (0)4 42 92 42 13
E-Mail : elaushway@aol.com

Candies During Good Old Days

Back when I was a child, I remember how I used to eat lots of different types of Candy. I suppose we all did then, I do not eat that much now, but the craving remains the same. I can't help but notice that a lot of the Candy that we ate back then seems to have long gone off our shelves.

You would have thought that with all the media coverage of the day that was afforded to the Candy Industry, that these types of candy would in fact out live us all. This has proved not to be the case sadly, and many of our favorites are no longer to be found on the shop shelves, below are a few examples.

I remember over 20 years ago, back in the Eighties to be precise, a Candy by the strange sounding name of Bonkers. It may have sounded strange but this Creamy, fruity, chewy sweet candy was much loved by lots of kids of the day.

Bonkers came in a variety of different flavors. A couple I remember were Watermelon and Strawberry, but the funny thing that I remember about this Candy was that shortly after introducing a Chocolate flavor, they just seemed to vanish from sight, strange but true.

Another of my favorites back then was the good old Bubble Gum. You used to be able to get them in a mini Juice box as well, although Bubble gum is still around it is not as popular today as it once was.

Today you get your Bubble Gum in sticks or a few pieces per pack. Back then, especially in the mini Juice box, you got lots of little pieces, and this meant that you had to grab a handful at once just to get the taste.

Does anybody remember the Mars bar? Another of my favorites way back then, with its Almond and caramel taste, lovely chocolate bar! Well Mars bar is still around, only now it is called something different. No big announcements have been made, but if you taste a Snickers Almond you will see what I mean.

Those good old days of Candy, how sweet they were!

I like comparing things from the old days. I have recently made a comparison on engraved cufflinks that you can read at http://engravedcufflinks.org

I Am Oscar Grant 2010 (part 2)

watch part 3: www.youtube.com watch part 1: www.youtube.com



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ5gctgSv6I&hl=en

3D Ready TVs For the Latest in Movie and Gaming Technology

The most recent technology in theater these days is 3D, or three dimensional, viewing. Many of the latest big budget films are now all employing the same special effects and vivid images using three dimensional techniques to enhance the depth and realism of the movie. Now this technology, normally only viewable in theaters, can be enjoyed on your home TV.

With more 3D movies on the horizon, advances in the field are being made already with the announcement of 3D ready television sets and programming. Cablevision, ESPN, and Sky UK all plan to launch 3D channels in early 2010, and will require a 3D ready TV for viewing. Most major manufacturers have either placed compatible televisions on the market or will be releasing three-dimensional TV's at some point this year. They range anywhere from $1500 to a few thousand dollars in price, with some glasses being sold separately. Though slow to start, the breakthrough of this type of viewing experience is no doubt going to be significantly improved upon and found in more and more electronics in the future.

3D ready TV's are designed to work with LCD shutter glasses, which use a wireless link to allow the viewer to experience a more realistic movie and gaming experience. Video games especially benefit from this type of imaging because the high quality graphics work in unison with virtual cameras, or "native 3D", making the virtual image look smooth and realistic, popping from the screen. This makes them perfect for home TV sets. The game industry has released quite a few titles already with more to come. Already Disney, Microsoft Xbox 360, and PlayStation have released virtual video games, with more due out this year.

The difference between 3D in theater and home TV is minute, mostly being that the home TV is just a smaller scale version of a theater screen projecting three-dimensional images. Theaters also use a different type of glasses, but this doesn't mean much when compared to the home TV, just that it is according to what type of screen the image is being viewed on.

Reportedly plasma is the better choice for a 3D ready TV as opposed to LCD, with plasma displays showing a sharper image and better viewing angle, meaning the viewer can be sitting in different positions without losing picture quality. It's important to know that the 3D feature can be turned off on TV's so it can be watched in regular, 2D format.

The convenience of having a TV at home that can play movies just like theater scale films is a huge plus for consumers. With so many movies and games being marketed, stores are beginning to fill up with a variety of different genres for families to choose from.

As more and more companies introduce 3D imagery and content into their current line, the need for a compatible yet affordable home television to keep up with the trend will be greater. Between programs, video games, and movies, within a few years many American households will have virtual capability in their homes.

For more information on 3D movies and games, visit http://3dmoviesandgames.com.

The Ultimate Fighter Season 9 Episode 6 Review - Dollar is Money, Wilks the Dentist, Bisping Tired?

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On this episode of The Ultimate Fighter, we find out why Bisping was a no show for Amasingers fight, Dollar finds his fighting spirit, and Wilks has a part time job as a dentist.

The episode starts off with Bisping picking Martin Stapleton to fight Cameron Dollar in the lightweight division. Dollar seems less than enthused about the idea of fighting a British Marine.

Once the fight announcement was made the episode picks up with Team UK training, and Bisping telling Amasinger they would talk about his absence later. Bisping goes on to tell the viewers that he had jet lag, and went to take a nap and basically passed out. At least Bisping is man enough to admit that what he did was inexcusable and unforgivable. Although, he still hopes that Amasinger will be able to forgive him eventually.

Cameron Dollar spends his time before the fight talking about how nervous he is, and how he gets scared to death before his fights. Stapleton on the other hand is upbeat and confident that he will be the victor. Stapleton spends a little time joking with the US team, and telling the viewers that he is afraid of no man.

The two fighters go on to form a game-plan with their respective coaches. Dollar admits that he likes wrestling, but doesn't like, and in fact isn't very good at fighting standing up. (Most fighters don't admit so open and honestly their dislikes and weaknesses). Stapleton and Bisping plan on Stapleton stuffing Dollars shots and beating Dollar with stand-up.

Fight time! Both fighters have decent records: Stapleton is 5-1 while Dollar is 4-1. The fighters meet at the center of the octagon, and Stapleton (not Dollar) looks apprehensive. Stapleton looked pretty stiff, and wasn't very aggressive initially. Dollar on the other hand seemed to be more comfortable once the fight started despite all the talk about his nerves and fear.

Dollar and Stapleton tie up, and Dollar hits Stapleton towards the back of Stapletons head (quite possibly directly on the back of the head). Stapleton is dazed, and Dollar takes him to the mat. Dollar gets Stapletons back and finishes Stapleton due to tapout by rear naked choke.

I think that most of the fans of the show would consider this an upset. I personally thought Stapleton would make it to the finale. I also thought that Dollar was going to get whupped during this fight. But, this is what makes MMA and the UFC so great. Anybody can talk, and some can train and look good while doing it, but only a few have what it takes to win in the octagon. The octagon is the ultimate proving ground, and Dollar proved that despite nerves and fear he has a fighting spirit, and the ability to win, even against British Marines.

Now, it's Team USA's turn to pick the next fight. Henderson chooses Frank Lester to fight James Wilks of Team UK. Apparently Lester has an extreme dislike for Wilks, which nobody really seems to understand. Lester spends a lot of time and energy talking about how much he can't stand Wilks, and how he wants nothing more than to bury elbows into Wilks' face.

Lester seems confident with the match-up, but so does Team UK. Lester's confidence seems to encourage a member of team USA to put bounty on Wilks' teeth. $100 for every tooth that gets knocked out will be paid to Lester.

Both fighters then meet with their coaches to set up their game-plans. Hendersons plan for Lester is for Lester to keep his punches in tight, and to just calm down. Once Lester was selected to fight he became so excited that he wasn't sitting still, he was pacing around, shadow boxing constantly, and talking about nothing else but the fight. Henderson felt the need to try to reel Lester back in a little. So, Henderson sat down with Lester and told him to remain calm in the ring, and to try and focus.

Wilks on the other hand seemed to have the game-plan of submitting Lester by any means necessary.

The first round of the fight was pretty exciting. Both fighters landed some good shots, but the climax of the first round was when Wilks knocked out four of Lester's teeth via a knee to the face. After the first round Lester looked tired, and it seemed as though he had lost his desire to fight.

In between rounds Team USA had to literally pluck one of Lester's teeth out of his mouth-guard which took more time than what is normally allotted between rounds. Bisping was upset that Team USA was given the extra time to fix the "equipment malfunction".

Wilks came out in the second round and pressured Lester, who fought back only when pressed. Wilks took Lester down and mounted him without much resistance from Lester. A few seconds later Wilks had Lester tapping out due to an armbar.

With those two fights in the books that leaves six fighters left to fight. Next week they will be showing two more fights, and someone apparently has herpes. The standings are now Team UK 3 Wins, Team USA 2. That's about it for this weeks episode, see all of you MMA Junkheads next week.

Written By: Maxwell Destree. If you would like to see more of my articles visit my blog at http://mmafighttalk.wordpress.com/
If you're a fan of MMA, the UFC, or just a sports fan in general, and you just don't have enough time to keep up with all the news in the UFC, no problem. Just visit my blog and get up to date information on fighters, events and rumors. Also, you can find fight lines and fight predictions for upcoming events.

Take 5 at the 2009 Oscar Nominations Announcement

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyoWlI5mjC8&hl=en

Rent to Own Tips

Even though this arrangement is often tailored for a buyer-seller type, the lease with option to buy or renting to own all work about the same. How it works is the renter agrees to lease the home for a pre-determined time usually from one to three years. There may be an up-front consideration fee. The seller allows the buyer to lock in a monthly price for the property till it is paid off.

The buyer needs to decide if they are going to stay in the area since leasing does cost more than just renting. It's a good idea to know that this property is the one desired before entering the lease-option agreement.

Buyers will need to pay an option fee which is the upfront consideration fee that makes the contract binding. Once they understand all they need to, they will need to pay it and sign the contract. At the end of the lease, buyers can choose to buy the property. This is called closing.

Timing is everything when it comes to home financing. "Market conditions are a critical factor in finding a lease-option," said Oscar Munguia, real estate broker in Simi Valley, Calif.

This type of agreement works well with those who are new to the housing market or have made a job transition. It also is positive for anyone who needs to strengthen their credit or pay off a obligations to qualify for a home purchase.

It's also advisable to get the property inspected before buying it. Have an independent professional home inspector go through the property to uncover any potential problems the home may have to make sure these will not be an obstacle to a loan. Also, be clear on who is responsible who the repairs as well.

Chris and Sarah Kane of Visalia, Calif. Bought their first home with the lease-option plan. "We found a home we really liked for $221,000 and figured we would just have to rent it," said Chris Kane. "But as we thought more about it, we knew we didn't want to spend over $2000 a month on a home with nothing to show for it."

They decided to apply the rent to the purchase of the home and after they had an agreement with the seller, they had $20,000 of equity just 12 months later, leaving their down-payment covered.

"Lease-options typically favor the buyer, but they can be complicated and dangerous to those unfamiliar with them," Munguia warned. "For this reason, they should seek counsel from a broker, and also have a real estate attorney inspect the contract to ensure their financial protection and security."

John Harris is an expert researcher and writer on real estate topics such as economics, credit improvement tips, home selling advice and home buying preparations. For more information please visit Poway Homes for Sale

2010 Oscar Nominees Are...

Anne Hathaway and Tom Sherak announce the 82nd annual Academy Awards nominees.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-d5-s-9HuQo&hl=en

Helping Children Understand Moving

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When I was 2 years old, my parents brought my little brother, older brother and I into our luxurious dining room. They told us to sit down, and then told us that we were moving far away. I don't really remember what was said, but how I felt was unforgettable like the Louis Armstrong song. My older brother was quite content that we were going to be relocating to an entirely new place. My little brother was nervous because he wasn't sure if he could bring his barbies and dolls with us. All I could remember was I was super excited, but scared and nervous that I would be leaving everything that I was used to for my entire life, including my imaginary puppy named Oscar Clifford.

Moving can be very stressful for young kids, so as a parent, you should know some tips to help make moving much easier. You should make your children aware of the move as soon as possible. It will help your children need to feel included in major events and decisions, they need time to get used to the idea of moving, and need an opportunity to vocalize their concerns and fears. Telling children you are moving in advance gives them the space they need to deal with their emotions.

When my parents told us that we were moving, my siblings and I had man questions about our current house, our new house, our belongings, and the general process of moving. This is typical of children, so if you have children they will most likely also have many questions about the moving process. According to experts, the types of questions your children ask may give you a heads up about how they are feeling are moving, whether they are happy or feel nervous. Some questions may also provide useful insight regarding good ways to get them involved in the moving process, such as suggestion that they hop on the computer to research nearby libraries, malls, or parks in the new neighborhood.

Encouraging your children's assistance during moving, regardless of how big or small their contribution may be is another pertinent way to help children cope with moving. If children feel that they are taking an active role in the moving process, they are more likely to feel in control and have a more positive attitude about the move. Your personal attitude will also have an impact on how your children feel. Children can sense what their parents are feeling. I remember feeling very nervous about our move because my father was. Paying attention to children's questions, concerns, and fears about moving lets your children know that they are important to you which can provide a strong foundation for their memories of this life changing time in their life.

Bleu Kolarghi is an expert on the moving business. She understands what it is like for families to move. She also is an accomplished Aluminum Hand Truck salesperson. Bleu Kolarghi can also help you fix your Hand Truck Wheels if they break.

Doing Love Scenes in Hollywood - Want to Know What They Are Like?

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You have seen them on Cinemax, HBO, you have seen them in the theaters, and you have seen them on TV... I am talking about love scenes! They can be super steamy and sexy or not well done at all. It depends not only on the director and the actors and actresses but also the lighting, sound, editing, score, etc. to make it a titillating and exciting experience for the audience.

Doing a love scene felt to me like an out-of-body experience (and not the kind that feels like pure love and joy). If I look back at doing that first love scene I literally remember it from somebody standing to the side and watching it, not from being the actress in the scene. It was a closed set (only the director and actors, and maybe the script supervisor stay on the set). Everyone was very professional. Thankfully, I have never had anyone act inappropriately while filming a love scene. The whole event was quite technical as well. Move your body here, your arm down there, now kiss. I had what is called a "patch" over my girly bits below and my co-star wore a "sock" over his boy bits. But I was naked, pretty much. To say I felt vulnerable would be an understatement.

As an actor, it is my job to bring life to a character and believability in unreal situations. That includes love scenes. If it looks real, I have done my job. I will go on record and say it is all acting. It is NOT real, even if it looks like it is.

Here is what I can recommend to actors and actresses faced with doing a love scene:

1) Keep a positive and easy-to-work with attitude;
2) Listen to your instincts, if it feels uncomfortable, let the director know;
3) If you feel like someone is being inappropriate, stop and have a discussion with the director and whoever is being inappropriate;
4) Make sure you are respected as an actress and each person is wearing the appropriate cover ups;
5) Make sure you have a robe available in between shots;
6) Be hygienic by being showered and brush your teeth;
7) Be sensitive to the other actors wishes, everyone is in a vulnerable position;
8) Use forethought and sensitivity, do not eat onions and garlic for lunch that day;
9) Keep a toiletry bag with you of items that you may need:
a. Kleenex
b. Patch (to cover your private areas) if you cover the area with something, they cannot use the take if it is shown on film, this is for your protection!
c. Mints/Gum
d. Toothbrush & toothpaste
e. Washcloth & hand towel
f. Handy wipes
g. Feminine products (women only)
h. Slippers
i. Mirror
j. First aid kit

I started acting in 1996. I have starred or co-starred in over 20 films. I discovered this about myself: I tend to read over stuff I do not really like as if I am not going to actually have to do it. I auditioned for an independent film and got a callback. I was so excited! I read the script; it was a film about a prostitute who is a murder suspect. I was offered the part. Yay me. I saw that there were love scenes in the movie but I tend to, kind-of, you know, read-them-quickly, so-maybe-they-did-not-really-exist. I like to focus on the positive aspects of things. And royally fool myself about the negative. I wanted to work as an actress so badly. I compromised doing the nudity to do the film. Had I known that it was called "soft-core porn" I probably would never have done it. I never wanted to be a "porn" star. Granted, I have never done "hard-core porn."

I was working on a particular film with an actress who was also a stripper and very beautiful. She was a friend of several other beautiful women who were porn stars. She shared with me the thoughts and expressions of her porn star friends on what soft-core porn actresses or B-actresses were thought of. They felt bad for B-actresses who did love scenes because they did not get to "enjoy fully" their experience of doing love scenes. I understand their point, from their point of view. However, I was not in it to "get off" so I was just fine not "getting off." There is no judgment; I just was not in it for that. I was in it to further my career and work as an actress. It is not right or wrong to me; it is just a different choice. To me doing love scenes was a compromise I made in order to work as an actress.

I did a couple more soft-core films as well as other types of independent films that did not have love scenes in them. Playboy produced most of the steamy films through a company called Mystique Films. I also turned down many films. I was willing to compromise doing some nudity but if I could not use any part of the film to build my reel (a compilation of segments of an actor's work used to give to casting people or to get an agent) than I would not do it. Some of these films would only have the character copulating or talking about copulating through the entire film. That is not usable for a reel. I needed at least some substance; some footage that I could actually use to further my career.

Also, actors and actresses must consider the Internet now. Sex sells. Whatever love scenes you do on film will end up on someone's site for sale as screen captures or movie clips of you naked. You could look up Sharon Stone, Natalie Portman, Angelina Jolie, or Jessica Lange and find screen shots of them naked. At least I am not in bad company!

LoriDawn Messuri

I have lived in Los Angeles for over 14 years. I have worked as an actress and on the production side for most of those years. I am currently working in development for a film project called "Flipside" with Moving Forward Productions at Sunset Gower Studios. For a list of some of my acting credits you can go to The Internet Movie Database, or IMDB, also, my book is available at: LoriDawn Designs

At Moving Forward Productions, our main purpose is to make a difference in the world. Our mission is to help others in any way possible. Recently, we volunteered our time to produce a public service announcement for Rosemary Children's Services to help kids and teens find foster or adoptive parents. Please visit our website to be a part of the change you want to see in the world! What Is The Flipside

Invitations - Housewarming and Moving Announcements Cards

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Are you going to be celebrating a new place soon? Maybe you've just bought a new house. Maybe you're moving out of your parents' home for the first time or getting your first place with a significant other. No matter what the reason for the change of address it's definitely a good reason to celebrate. You could throw an open house and invite everyone to drop by at their convenience for refreshments and a tour of your place or you could have an official housewarming party. But, regardless, you should choose to shop with the quality online housewarming stationery shoppes for your invitations house warming. They certainly have plenty to offer.

Custom Housewarming Invitations

For such a special occasion your invitations housewarming party should be unique. You can customize your invite by choosing fonts, ink color, and message. Don't you just love it when someone sends you a very carefully thought-out invitation? And the delight is the greatest when the card is an appropriately worded one. When you send your new house invitations, you must make sure your guests feel the same way! These sites offer you a modern technology called patented instant preview. This feature allows you to instantly preview how your card will look once it gets printed. In case there are any changes that you would like to make feel free to make them. Once you approve the final version of the card and are ready to place an order, and they will send you a proof of your custom verse and other changes. A free proof of your house warming invitation is created for you to review and approve before printing. Once approved the invites are printed and shipped the same day.

Photo Moving Announcements Add a Personal Touch

Personalized announcements are the most unique of their kind. You can create unique and a personalized moving announcement by adding photos of you and the new home to your house warming invitations. This not only will give the invitation a personal feel all together, but it will also help your guests in finding the right property. In addition to this it's an excellent way to show your new home to the people who won't be able to attend your party housewarming. You can choose any design from our site and add photos. Sit back and watch them create your personalized moving card.

Cutting Costs for Your Announcement Card Costs

While shopping for anything, money is the deciding factor. When you purchase invitations housewarming online, you will cut down the cost. A few offer competitive prices. By shopping with them you can save a lot of money. A few sites offer other ways to save, such as free shipping on orders over $100 and 10 FREE cards with every order. They're committed to treating each customer as if they were our only customer and "Go the Extra Mile" to make sure your invitations perfectly express your feelings.

About the Author: Sarah Porter have written about Printed Housewarming Party Invitations, Personalized Invitations Housewarming Party, Fun Housewarming Party Ideas, Unique Housewarming Invitations, Free Moving Announcements, Custom Moving Cards, Inexpensive Announcements Cards and more for CardsShoppe, Express-Invitations and Announcements-Shoppe

OSCAR NOMINATIONS 2010 - FULL VIDEO (HQ)

hotspot.kit2u.info OSCAR NOMINATIONS 2010 - FULL VIDEO (HQ) Disclaimer WE DON'T OWN THIS VIDEO No copyright infringement intended. All Videos (Including this one) belong to respective owner(s)



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiCazPiMJYg&hl=en

The Importance Of Music Contests

A band or music artist at some point in their career will probably be faced with the decision of whether to enter a talent, vocal, singing, battle of the bands, composing, or lyric/songwriting contest. Your friends and family might be telling you how great they think you are and suggest that you enter. Possibly a teacher recognizing a talent, might be the push. Whomever it is, why would you want to and why should you enter a music competition?

In the USA, one of the biggest singing contests now of course, is American Idol, a televised contest where the viewers vote, and the finalist wins possible fame and fortune. Across the globe are Australian Idol, World Idol, Latin American Idol, Rockstar: Supernova, Superstar, You're A Star, the list goes on for these hugely popular events.

Having your singing voice, writing skills, or instrumentation judged by a panel of industry experts is not for the weak of heart, but neither is the music business. The cash and the prize lists are sometimes enough of a temptation to enter, but think more along the lines of what is your ultimate music goal. Is it a career in music? Then the potential exposure that a contest may bring could be of far more value.

Your chances of winning, as long as you do have good musical skills could be better than you anticipate. Sometimes it just depends on who else enters, the category you enter, or that particular contest. Not to be skeptical, but it may not be that you are the preeminent singer, writer, or musician in the entire world, but you are the best that entered at that time. That being said, it still shows that you won!

What are the benefits of entering

Various contests across the globe offer a variety of prize packages, some with a lot of potential for the winners. Prize packages can include cash, recording contracts, a live showcase, radio play, publishing, career development, music instruments and gear, professional evaluation of your submission with feedback, computer software, music books, and cool online music service memberships.

Competitions can launch a career. Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera and JC Chasez all made the cut in The New Mickey Mouse Club auditions. Fantasia, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, have all moved from American Idol winners to holding their own in record sales, touring and fame. Kelly Clarkson even won two Grammy Awards!

A song or artist may not be the ultimate winner of the entered contest, but in the judging process, a prospective stand out could earmark that artist for other opportunities. Something may not "win" the category it is in, but a savvy music expert may see the potential for use elsewhere and contact you about it.

An entry in a contest that wins, places or receives honorable mention is a good mark to add to your music profile. You are keeping your music profile online and newsletters updated with your latest exploits, right?

The validation that you won, your work was recognized by industry experts is a huge ego boost and confidence builder. Insert all those gushy Oscar and Grammy acceptance speeches here, but it sure does give you the warm fuzzies.

The publicity received could compensate the entry fee. Exposure can include not only the possibility of being seen by an accredited music professional judge and panel, but magazine, press, and online coverage no matter if you are the ultimate winner or not. Also, some contests do offer reviews on all entries, so that could garner some interesting feedback. Nonetheless, the process itself may add to the overall learning experience.

What might be the drawbacks perceived

There seems to be some ill-perceived notions about some contests, justifiable or not. Some people take the notion that competitions are rip-offs or "they are out to steal my music" mentality. The cost of entering may be a deterrence (the fee plus possibly postage, traveling, etc.). The thought of not a snowball's chance in hell in winning, or even the discouraging thought of having your creation or talent rejected might be a hindrance to the music artist.

Low odds perceived? The motto from the lottery is "you gotta play to win". Millions of people enter lotteries every day. Think about it, not nearly that many are entering contests, though American Idol lines may seem that long. In listening to music artists across the web, there is a general misconception of contests as scams. True, there are and have been some "competition" scams out there or some new contests that didn't raise enough funding, thus destroying the integrity of all involved. Savvy musicians need to filter those out.

That's why you RESEARCH. You learn what competitions are solid and exactly what you need to do to enter correctly. Watch for any wording in the TOC and throughout in the entry process that comes anywhere near saying that they will become the owner of the entry. Usually a contest that's been around a few years and has proven industry sponsors, partners, judges and founders shows the commitment to excellence needed.

Check out online comments on particular contests. You may find a comment in a forum that is a bit off-color. Take that with a grain of salt, as a disgruntled "sore-loser" may have posted something based on his/her disillusionment, rejection or for not entering properly.

Entry fees are standard procedure for entering many competitions. The cost of advertising, organizing and promoting contests, let alone the prize money and gear offered add up. Staff for accounting, processing entries, booking and countless other business processes are needed. Possibly even the professional judges time may need to be paid for.

If a contest says $50K in prizes, read the rest of the text and know how that is split up. Be aware of any taxes due on cash on prizes won and the law applicable in your state or locality.

What you need to do

Thoroughly read all rules, criteria, Terms and Conditions (TOC), use of your name and music and understand in detail the process and what to expect. Any wording that states that your music will become the property of the contest, steer clear of. They should have the right to promote the winners list, play the song, use your name of course, as the writer/creator of the music as well as image - but you remain the sole owner.

Research which competitions would be a best fit for your level and experience, to enhance your career in music. Is the competition open to anyone, amateurs, semi-pros and/or professionals? Is it open internationally or locally only? Can you enter online? Does everyone get something out of it? Look for well established competitions that can prove and deliver what they state.

Correctly fill in your application form, and recheck your spelling. If filling out a form for several entries, fill in critical info and copy it, then fill in the individual entry sections.

Take notice of how the judging process works. Is the emphasis on the lyrics only or the recording? Songs or lyrics may be first judged by an "in house" panel; if the piece passes and surpasses the criteria set for that category, it may then be passed on to the next level or round. Check out the judges panel, some contests have top names across the industry that could possibly listen to your work.

If you win or place well - get every ounce of mileage you can from the free publicity. Not only announcing it on your web page(s), bio page, online press release, but get local news coverage, school, TV, and radio. Make an announcement and soak it up for all it's worth.

Where to find contests

Nearly every country, city, and many towns have some kind of music awards, competitions, contests or battle of the bands for any instrument played, singing or writing style. By searching online for any of those keywords will bring an assortment of results. Some contest are specified only to certain genres or instruments, while some are open year around and some open and close at different times of year.

Search music magazines, music stores, music schools, college music departments, and radio/television press. Some competitions you will need to be a member of an organization and some require that you do not. Many contests have early bird entry fees, or multiple entry discounts. Entry confirmation is something that should be offered.

Don't enter a contest too early if you are an impatient person, as some contest cycles may take as much as a year from opening to winners announcements.

One gifted artist may have reasons for not wanting the limelight and frills of a competition; for another it may be a goal or milestone. The sheer volume of competitions available are a testament to some basic human need of acceptance within us all.

If exposure and publicity are desired to get your foot in the door, contests can be invaluable. A career in music is an ongoing process, filled with years of blood, sweat and tears. They can be tears of pain and rejection and tears of joy. Dream big and strive bigger, and may you hear one day as the envelope is opened, "And the winner is...".

Artistopia - The Ultimate Artist Development Resource www.artistopia.com is an artist development service and community on the web providing indie and unsigned music artists, songwriters and bands all the tools needed for music business collaboration and networking.

82nd Academy Awards Nominations

2010 Oscars nominations announcement presented by Tom Sherak and Anne Hathaway. 82nd Annual Academy Awards. Date: February 2, 2010



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6u-kipXtkSs&hl=en

oscar 2010 nominations

╔═╦╗╔╦╗╔═╦═╦╦╦╦╗╔═╗ ║╚╣║║║╚╣╚╣╔╣╔╣║╚╣═╣ ╠╗║╚╝║║╠╗║╚╣║║║║║═╣ ╚═╩══╩═╩═╩═╩╝╚╩═╩═╝ oscar 2011 ^-^



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_Bpq5jS0Qo&hl=en

Nominations Announcement for the 82nd Academy Awards

Megan Telles reporting for Palestra.net Andrew Huse / Video Sony EX1, Canon 7D + 400mm f/2.8L IS USM Beverly Hills, CA 2/2/2010 Interviews with: Leonard Maltin, Tom Sherak, Jeanne Wolf, Adam Shankman and Bill Mechanic



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZMWr76qT5k&hl=en

Planning Your Disneyland Wedding

Image : http://www.flickr.com

A wedding day is considered by many the happiest day of their life. It can be even happier I it is held at the happiest place on Earth. That place is Disneyland. Disneyland has made weddings possible with Disneyland Weddings.

Women dream of their weddings from a young age. They visualize a story type wedding that is very unique and, romantic. With the story factor in it, it becomes very enchanting. Now that you're all grown up and at the point of marriage, you can have your wedding at Disneyland! Disneyland makes it possible to have a magical time and a very creative ceremony. It will certainly be the happiest place on Earth.

The best thing is that you don't have to stress over the details. Disneyland really makes it a Cinderella story by taking care of the details in providing a fairy God Planner.

You should know that Disneyland weddings should not be left for the last minute. Your planning should start one year in advanced. You must schedule a meeting with the Disney wedding planner, take a site tour and pick out the locations for the wedding. You must sign the letter of agreement eleven months prior the big day. Ten months prior the wedding the announcements are mailed out to your guests.

The panning becomes more intense eight months before the wedding date. Planning occurs over the phone and in person with the wedding planner. The ceremony and receptions are prepared as well. Like a jigsaw puzzle,all the pieces come together and into place for the big picture. Payments for the event are due 30 days before the wedding date and the guest count must be complete at least 4 days before the wedding date.

Disneyland plans everything out with your input and all the details are handled without any additional stress put on you. After all, you must be very stressed with your wedding date coming fast. Flowers, catering, music, invitations and other details are all included. After the wedding ceremony occurs, you will have a lifelong impression left in your heart. You are your husband or wife will have and enjoy the reception you always have dreamed of.

The staff will wear white gloves and will be complete with table settings from the resort. There will be a head table The floors will be lined with floor length linens and the tables will have place cards. Your imagination will run wild by seeing your life long dreams coming to life.

After the wedding, be sure to checkout the honeymoon packages available from the Disney Resort. Disneyland makes it possible to have the wedding of your dreams and the honey moon of your dreams.

If you would like to view videos and pictures of Disneyland please visit http://www.coastercrazy.com/

Oscar Orihuela is an expert article writer and is avid theme park enthusiast. Visit http://www.coastercrazy.com/ to view videos, pictures and read reviews on Disneyland and Disneyland Weddings.

AMC STS Oscar Nominees Announcement Reaction Part 2

Christina Warren and John Campea of amcentertainment.com give their reactions to the Oscar Nominees announcements.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rchKpZQFFPU&hl=en

Music Creates the Mood

In every television show, commercial, and movie trailer it is right there; harnessing your attention, riveting your anticipation and directing your expectation. It is the theme, the musical background, the sales jingle that tells you what you should expect. The music tells us what to look forward to and as a result creates the mood. It is the music that tells us when our favorite television shows are coming on. I cannot listen to the William Tell Overture without thinking of the Lone Ranger. There are not a lot of people that would say that they could recognize the song Suicide is Painless. But if I were to tell you that is the theme song to the old MASH series there would be instant recognition. And if you were a regular in MASH's television audience, you are probably humming that tune right now. You may even be remembering some favorite episodes and what sparked that was a tune.

It was the musical jingles that taught us how to spell. Remember M, I, C, K, E, Y, M, O, U, S, E? (for all of you old timers) Or is this one any better; "Oscar Mayer has a way with b, o, l, o, g, n, a?" The jingles taught us that we could double our pleasure and our fun just by chewing gum, that we should obey our thirst, that a sprinkle a day keeps the odor away, and that whatever is going on at McDonald's, I'm loving it. If you are any kind of television watcher, I am sure that there are more jingle sitting in your unconscious memory waiting to be brought to consciousness. It is easy to memorize these trifling ditties. That is why they were designed, to guide our decision making, particularly when we are shopping.

The danger is that more than our shopping habits may be influenced by what we listen to. A nationally known motivational speaker ended one of his talks by telling the audience that he was going to ride a motorcycle across the United States. What was so amazing about this announcement was the fact that at that time he did not own a motorcycle, neither had he ever even ridden a motorcycle. In fact, his announcement surprised him more so than any of his listeners.

The situation came about in this wise. Our non-motorcycle riding lecturer keeps musical CD's in his car. He usually plays them on his way to a speaking engagement. They are high-energy numbers that are intended to get him pumped prior to his speech. On one of the CD's there is a song with a theme of riding across America on a motorcycle. After hearing that song enough times, our non-motorcycle riding motivational speaker felt empowered to take that ride, even though he had never ridden a motorcycle in his life.

Our lecturer's experience makes a case for the suggestibility of music into our habits, choices and lifestyles. Because no thought resides rent free in our minds, it is incumbent upon us to make the best choices concerning our thinking. It is the thought that precedes the action. It is not my purpose to put down any type of music. Nonetheless, a review of the themes and messages found in much of our contemporary music would find a definite want for positive ness in choices and lifestyle. That is a problem. The number one thing that young people (teens) do when they are depressed is to listen to music. That is number one over talking to friends or getting counseling. If the themes they are attending are not uplifting, how can they be raised from their depression? Music does indeed create the mood.

Music speaks to our unconscious. The tempo directs us, almost in an unknowing fashion into agreement with the rhythm. If you don't believe this, try this simple experiment; when you are trying to get romantic, play Stars and Stripes Forever or play Taps at a pep rally and see what sets the mood. Because of its power and potential to influence, it is important that we recognize and guard well against its overwhelming influence.

http://www.karynnpress.com

Sam Darby, Ed.D. is a an author, counselor and motivational speaker with over 30 years of experience in working with families and children.

Obama supports Oscar the Grouch to replace Simon Cowell

President Obama came out in support of Oscar the Grouch's bid to become the next American Idol judge on Simon Cowell's announcement he is leaving the show.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lokTBkCUP5U&hl=en

James Dean - James Byron Dean

Image : http://www.flickr.com

JAMES BYRON DEAN

LIFE IMITATES ART

GENERATION NEXT

ANIMAL FARM

FOUR EYES

THESE GO TO ELEVEN

THE ACTOR WAY

FRANK, BILLIE AND JIMMY

ACTING THE PART

DEAD MAN'S CURVE

APOCALYPSE NOW

GIANT

"Dream as if you'll live forever. Live as if you'll die today." - James Dean

JAMES BYRON DEAN

James Dean was born on February 8th, 1931 in Marion, Indiana. His hobbies were writing, painting, bullfighting (when did that happen?), photography, sculpting, car racing, horse racing and playing the bongos. His favorite drink was coffee and his favorite ice cream flavor was coffee and raspberry.

LIFE IMITATES ART

"To grasp the full significance of life is the actor's duty; to interpret it his problem; and to express it his dedication. Being an actor is the loneliest thing in the world. You are all alone with your concentration and imagination, and that's all you have. Being a good actor isn't easy. Being a man is even harder. I want to be both before I'm done."

GENERATION NEXT

James Dean's first professional acting gig was a Pepsi commercial. Since then, Michael Jackson, Cindy Crawford, Michael J. Fox, Shaquille O'Neal, Jeff Gordon, Ray Charles, Billy Crystal, Britney Spears, Beyonce, Shakira, The Osbournes, Faith Hill, Sammy Sosa, Joe Montana, Ken Griffey Jr., Gloria Estafan, Tina Turner and many others have endorsed the blue canned beverage.

BRAD'S CHOICE

Before Pepsi was called Pepsi, it was called "Brad's Drink" way back in 1898. Well, another Brad, Brad Pitt is now vying for the chance to remake James Dean's first film, "East of Eden" with Pitt in the starring role. Dean's performance in "East of Eden" won him an Oscar nomination, making him one of only five actors to receive a nomination from their first screen performances. He was also the only actor in history to receive more than one Oscar nomination posthumously.

ANIMAL FARM

"Studying cows, pigs and chickens can help an actor develop his character. There are a lot of things I learned from animals. One was that they couldn't hiss or boo me. I also became close to nature, and am now able to appreciate the beauty with which this world is endowed."

FOUR EYES

Dean was required to wear glasses while driving as he was nearsighted. The king of cool, had to wear glasses, if only he had been around long enough to do a public service announcement for that, then being a "four-eyes" would have meant a completely different thing these days.

THESE GO TO ELEVEN

No matter what kind of music James Dean listened to, he liked it LOUD! But what did he listen to? After all it was the early 50's and Elvis had yet to become the King, the Beatles had yet to become the Fab Four...What did James Dean rock out to, before there was Rock? He liked African Tribal music, Afro-Cuban songs and dance (Dean liked to play the bongos), Classical music - especially Bartok and Stravinsky, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra and Billie Holiday.

THE ACTOR WAY

"When an actor plays a scene exactly the way a director orders, it isn't acting. It's following instructions. Anyone with the physical qualifications can do that. So the director's task is just that ñ to direct, to point the way. Then the actor takes over. And he must be allowed the space, the freedom to express himself in the role. Without that space, an actor is no more than an unthinking robot with a chest-full of push-buttons."

FRANK, BILLIE AND JIMMY

It has been said that James Dean's favorite song was Billie Holiday's "When Your Lover Has Gone" and his favorite album was Frank Sinatra's "Songs for Young Lovers".

ACTING THE PART

"An actor must interpret life, and in order to do so must be willing to accept all the experiences life has to offer. In fact, he must seek out more of life than life puts at his feet. In the short span of his lifetime, an actor must learn all there is to know, experience all there is to experience, or approach that state as closely as possible. He must be superhuman in his efforts to store away in the core of his subconscious everything that he might be called upon to use in the expression of his art."

DEAD MAN'S CURVE

Dean only made three Hollywood pictures, propelling him into super stardom. As his final film, Giant, was wrapping up in Marfa, Texas, Dean was driving his Porsche Spyder to an auto race in Salinas, California. His car collided with another can outside Cholame, California. James Dean, an American legend, died on September 30th, 1955. The Failure Analysis Associates later re-created all the details of the accident at the same approximate time on September 30th, and concluded that James Dean was traveling 55 to 56 m.p.h. when the fateful accident occurred, thereby proving he had not been speeding, despite the fact that he had received a speeding ticket only two hours before the crash.

APOCALYPSE NOW

"Jim Dean and Elvis were the spokesmen for an entire generation. When I was in acting school in New York, years ago, there was a saying that if Marlon Brando changed the way people acted, then James Dean changed the way people lived. He was the greatest actor who ever lived. He was simply a genius." - Martin Sheen

GIANT

"Every time I go to Europe, I remember that James Dean never saw Europe, but yet I see his face everywhere. There ís James Dean, Humphrey Bogart and Marilyn Monroe windows of the Champs Elysees, discos in the south of Spain, restaurants in Sweden, t-shirts in Moscow. My life was confused and disoriented for years by his passing. My sense of destiny destroyed the great films he would have directed, the great performances he would have given, the great humanitarian he would have become, and yet, he is the greatest actor and star I have ever known." - Dennis Hopper

To read more articles by Chad, visit the American Pop Culture Encyclopedia at: American Pop Culture Encyclopedia.

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