From famed Japanese animators Studio Ghibli [specifically, director Goro Miyazaki] comes TALES FROM EARTHSEA, a sweeping adventure set in a mythical world filled with magic and bewitchment. An epic tale of redemption and self-discovery, the story follows the journey of Lord Archmage Sparrowhawk (voice of Timothy Dalton), the master wizard, as he searches for the force behind a mysterious disturbance that has caused an imbalance in the land of Earthsea—suddenly crops and livestock are dwindling, dragons have reappeared and humanity is giving way to chaos. Along the way he rescues Arren (voice of Matt Levin), a troubled young prince who has fled his home and is being pursued by an enigmatic shadow. Arren joins Sparrowhawk on the quest and, moving closer to their intertwined destinies, they cross paths with Tenar (voice of Mariska Hargitay), a former priestess, and her disfigured adopted daughter, Therru. With Sparrowhawk’s magical powers dissipating, all of them must band together to defeat the evil Cob (voice of Willem Dafoe) and his henchman Hare (voice of Cheech Marin) before Cob’s mania to find immortality destroys Earthsea.

After making a flip comment on Facebook that I intended to be provocative, author/radio personality John Moe took me to task for my alleged insensitivity. In light of his remarks and to honor my goal of getting others to truly think about issues rather than simply pay them lip service, I suggested I discuss the subject on air with Jeannie Yandel on KUOW Presents. I am glad she agreed, I am glad we did. Using three movies as touchstones, we examined Suicide from multiple perspectives, from motive to mourning. Click here for the piece that aired over the weekend. Then, draw your own conclusions and share your thoughts here on The Warren Report.

Also, stay tuned for an announcement about an upcoming episode of my new tv series, The High Bar, spotlighting Suicide with guest Brendan Kiley of The Stranger.

Many voters are unaware of the Constitution-blessed process of reapportionment, thankfully, Jeff Reichert has completed GERRYMANDERING, an engaging documentary that colorfully and carefully explains the title’s history, its role in present-day campaigns and efforts nationwide to alter its future impact.

After I published a summary of the movie, critical of some aspects, I exchanged (congenial) messages with Mr. Reichert, who kindly agreed to be interviewed for The Warren Report so that we encourage you to consider the machinations that disempower voters by diluting the significance of their ballots and question the quality of our choices before we even step up to the voting booths.

Once you’re read through our conversation, visit endgerrymandering.com and learn how you can make a change. Draw your own conclusions. You’ve got my vote. And, The Warren Report serves as an open-minded forum for your feedback.

WARREN: Your documentary explains the origins of the term, gerrymandering. In your research, was the process of redistricting essentially, unilaterally, corrupt from the outset? Or, were there exceptions as you suggest Iowa serves as today?

JEFF: I think instead of “corruption,” it may be better in the redistricting context to talk about “fairness.” The idea to elect representatives from geographically defined areas was borne from a certain conception of what “fair representation” would look like.  The problem with an idea like “fair” is that it’s fluid, and no one’s going to agree on what that actually means.  The Founding Fathers took a good stab at setting up a workable system within the context of a nation that allowed only white landowners to vote, but we’re now a few hundred years later electing representatives based on a modified and expanded idea of their “fair.”  So, some of the corruption of redistricting is intrinsic to the way we’ve decided to hold elections, and is really not the fault of any specific party or agent.  The real problems come when the weaknesses of the system are exploited even further, and this is what my film is largely about.

WARREN: There is an implication in the movie that Barack Obama’s district was redrawn to increase the likelihood of his state-level election and that, in turn, dramatically improved his odds of winning on a national stage. Who do you believe was manipulating the process in Obama’s favor?

JEFF: This was very clearly handled by the Illinois State Democratic party — Ryan Lizza did a terrific job of reporting this incident in his Obama article for the New Yorker, “Making It.”  Obama, who had just gotten trounced in a Congressional race against a longtime incumbent, was given carte blanche by the party to change his district and he did so in dramatic fashion, as we show in the film.  The question then becomes: Did this redistricting put him on the fast track to the presidency?  It’s always hard to determine causality in something as nuanced as a political career, but I do think if he’d won that Congressional race in 2000, his path would have been very different.

WARREN: Typically, redistricting coincides with the completion of the census. However, GERRYMANDERING depicts the infamous efforts of Tom DeLay to cut up Texas to enhance the odds of Republicans winning seats. (And what do you know, it worked.) Can any state redistrict at any time? Need their be cause or a public acknowledgement?

JEFF: After the Delay/Texas incident one of the arguments made by those who litigated the case before the Supreme Court was that the plan should be thrown out because districting can only legally happen right after the Census.  The Court disagreed, in essence opening the door to constant gerrymandering.  That so-called “re-redistricting” hasn’t happened all over the country is a testament to how difficult mounting the process is within a legislature, but it doesn’t mean that it won’t.  Congressman John Tanner has recently introduced a bill that would at the very least require states to hold hearings on redistricting, that even this minor measure is unlikely to pass, suggests the degree to which the parties want to keep total control over the process.

WARREN: The great strength of GERRYMANDERING is that it calls attention to such an important factor in our electoral system. Why is so little press generated about this issue? How would you like the mainstream media’s coverage to evolve?

JEFF: I think part of the problem is that redistricting is terribly complicated and you need more time than the average news story gets these days to really tease out why the lines on a map really matter.  Redistricting actually has been getting a great deal of ink in newspapers recently, and I think there is a cadre of political writers out there who beat the drum about this issue every ten years in the hopes people will finally wake up.  But it’s one thing to read about redistricting and another thing to actually see it — to watch a map change, or spend time in the far corners of a district to see just how different it is.  We use in the film a terrific special program hosted by John Chancellor from the sixties in which they actually spent time doing just this, but there’s sadly no room in the current media landscape for this kind of exploration.

WARREN: GERRYMANDERING tracks the progress and eventual passing of Proposition 11 in California. Do you think this approach should be adopted nationwide?

JEFF: Not necessarily.  There are things I like about Prop. 11 and things I don’t like, and even the proponents agree that there are potential pitfalls in their approach.  They went ahead with it because they felt the system needed some kind of shock to help jolt it back into order, and the solution they came up with was very much tailored to the political realities of California.  We do need to change the way we do redistricting nationwide, but I think individual states need to look at their realities and see what kind of change works best for them.  That change may look something like Prop. 11, it may look like something else entirely.

WARREN: Prop 11 had the enthusiastic backing of The Terminator, er, the Governor of the state of California. In the film, one talking head proffers that Arnold only supported the movement because it made for good press. Are you equally cynical?

JEFF: I’m not, even though I did have my questions before we actually began filming.  Having spent time on the campaign trail with the Governor, and spoken with him directly about the issue on a few occasions, I do believe he understands redistricting and is sincere in his desire to reform the process.  Also, given how little press redistricting generally gets, there’s really no sound political upside to tackling it, especially in California, where attempts at reform have failed multiple times.  That he went after it twice, and is now engaged in an attempt to expand Prop. 11 to cover congressional districts suggests to me that he means business.

WARREN: Some skeptics wonder if America’s two-party system actually offers a choice or is it more like choosing between Daniel and Stephen Baldwin?

JEFF: I think now, more than at any point in my lifetime, the differences between the parties are starkly defined.  This ideological separation will fluctuate over time, but there are always differences, and I feel there’s a certain naivete in those who just kind of throw up their hands and say, “they’re all the same.”  To a certain extent that’s true — our electoral model tends to produce certain kinds of candidates, but there is a lot of room in the system for variance.  Can we honestly say that voting for Barney Frank is the same as voting for Michelle Bachmann?

WARREN: Can a third party — even one as histrionic as the Tea Party — ever have a voice in our government given the self-fulfilling prophecy of gerrymandered elections?

JEFF: Winner-take-all elections tend to produce a system dominated by two parties for reasons that are better explained by political scientists than filmmakers  – it’s incredibly complex.  As long as we use this system (where whichever candidate wins at least 50%+1 of the total vote is given the right to represent 100% of the voters) as opposed to, say, a proportional representation model, we will have two parties, and third parties will struggle.

WARREN: What constitutes meaningful representation? Should an elected official represent the needs of all voters in her or his district or should s/he vote purely in accordance with her or his conscience? If we all “are created equal,” why should redistricting even matter?

JEFF: That is a huge question, and one that we chose to raise in GERRYMANDERING briefly instead of really delving into.  Someone recently suggested to me that there might be another entire movie in this question alone.  Personally, I lean towards representatives who attempt to channel the various needs and desires of their constituents into legislation, as opposed to placing all my faith in the conscience of an individual and hoping for the best.  I believe we elect officials because we want them to do things for us, to act on our policy preferences.

We may all have been “created equal” but the world certainly doesn’t do us any favors post-creation, and that’s why we need politics and government – to help us get closer to this ideal.  We may decide at some point that we don’t want to continue using a system where we have to draw lines on a map to determine representation, and that’s fine, but until then we need to work within the limits set for us, while always remaining cognizant of other possibilities.  It was really important that we at least glance in this direction in the body of the film and I’ve actually been gratified how much our quick mention of this fundamental piece of the representation debate gets people talking and thinking.

WARREN: The Warren Report’s motto is: Smarter audiences make better movies. I also believe that smarter audiences make better voters. If you could offer readers one (or more) tip(s) as how to channel their outrage after seeing GERRYMANDERING, what would it/they be?

JEFF: I know we disagree on this a bit, but I strongly believe that the first thing voters should do after seeing the movie is learn the contours of their districts.  I think most will be very surprised about the kinds of communities they’ve been lumped in with and will recognize obvious inequities going on where they live and have questions about why these inequities exist.  The local is ground zero for real political reform and if viewers can take what the film imparts to them about how redistricting works and apply it to their individual situations, it will give them the tools they need to engage when redistricting happens again in a few months.  We are committed to making screenings of the film a place where the groups writing the reform measures can connect with newly educated voters, and have already swelled the ranks of several reform movements here in New York state.  We’re even working on a great online application to make this truly national at www.endgerrymandering.com.

No offense intended, but I think this is actually a far more concrete path to meaningful political reform than some of your suggestions from the initial article you wrote about my film, which, no matter how much I agree with their spirit aren’t particularly actionable.  I believe GERRYMANDERING is poised to move the needle on the redistricting debate.  The film will come out in October and we’re going to be engaging in a slew of activities to push this issue to the fore before people go to the polls in November.

On this episode of The High Bar, I welcome documentarian Steven Greenstreet (8: THE MORMON PROPOSITION) to raise a toast to, and the bar for… Marriage Equality. Should everyone be allowed an equal opportunity to celebrate true love or are some relationships destined to be torn asunder by religious doctrine and political haymaking?

Watch The High Bar, draw your own conclusions, then share them here, please.

For tix and more info: http://www.tasveer.org/

Recipient of the Indian “Silver Lotus Award” for the best film on Environmental Issues.

Along the border of South-West region of Orissa, a hill named Niyamgiri is home to a tribe called the Dongria Kandha. The current plight of the Dongria Kandha tribe is weaved through a love story of a simple villager Bangaru and his love interest Singari. How the modern man’s mind intrudes into their innocence to exploit the value of the tribe and the natural resources of the hills.

Niyamgiri hills, with its natural beauty of flora and fauna, is also rich of minerals which can be processed and produced as aluminum. The film starts with the controversial government’s announcement for the take-over of the mountain, handing it to a multinational company.

The film is directed by the Legendary Oriya director, Prashanta Nanda.

Here are some links to know more about the people of Niyamgiri.

Orissa tribe to Avatar director: now you watch our film

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4tuTFZ3wXQ

Vedanta Aluminium (mining company) recognized as Green Leader in mining and metal industry

http://www.orissadiary.com/ShowBussinessNews.asp?id=18984

During the morning Saiz will provide case studies, video samples, and valuable handouts to walk you through the basic steps towards making your project more competitive with this organization. In the afternoon, there will be an informal pitch session where attendees will get an opportunity to watch as twelve people present their proposals and Saiz provides feedback.

As the single biggest funder of independent documentaries on television, the Independent Television Service (ITVS) has become indispensable for filmmakers seeking major funding for their projects. This all day event is a rare opportunity for independent producers to meet Richard and grasp the essential concepts and principles of how to make your documentary more competitive when applying for ITVS funds.

When: July 10, 9am – 5pm (followed by a reception in West Seattle)
Where: Youngstown Cultural Art Center, Thelma Dewitty Theater
4408 Delridge Way SW, Seattle, WA 98106

Lunch will be provided. After the workshop we will have a happy hour reception (plenty of food and drink) for everyone at the nearby home of Ellen and Doug Frick. We’ll give location information and arrange carpools if needed at the workshop.

Tickets: Thanks to generous donations by ITVS and the former NDA, tickets are only $20, $15 for students.
Buy at Brown Paper Tickets:http://www.facebook.com/l/582ba;www.brownpapertickets.com/event/114687

Driving Directions:http://www.facebook.com/l/582ba;www.youngstownarts.org/contact_us/driving_directions

About Richard Saiz:
Saiz, Senior Programming Manager for ITVS oversees Open Call, the organization’s largest funding initiative. Each year, he reviews more than 500 proposals from independent producers throughout the country. He has more than 35 years experience as a broadcast journalist, producer, director and writer. His documentaries have won numerous awards, including the DuPont-Columbia Silver Baton and Best TV Documentary from the San Francisco International Film Festival.

Proposals:
We are now accepting proposals to present during the afternoon pitch session.

Each pitch will be allocated 15 minutes total: 5 minutes for the presentation and 10 minutes for Richard’s feedback. You may allocate your 5 minutes however you choose. Please note that pitching at the workshop is not a substitute for the open call application to ITVS. Be sure and visit the ITVS site to learn about the process. We expect that you’ll be familiar with the mechanics of the process before your pitch, as this saves time and allows everyone to focus on content rather than process.

Proposals should consist of a synopsis and treatment (no more than 2 pages total) and a proposed budget. If you have it, include a DVD of video no longer than ten minutes in length. This can be anything you want to show: e.g. an edited preview trailer, a string of selects or part of a rough cut.

Proposals are due by June 25 and should include your email and phone number. Mail your proposal to:
Documentary Northwest
1010 SW Elmgrove St.
Seattle, WA 98106

Those accepted to pitch will be notified by e-mail by July 3rd.

Which actors do you find funny regardless of the  context? I’d love to know.

Last week, three theaters in Japan canceled screenings of THE COVE, the alleged Sino-baiting, graphic dolphin-bashing, Oscar®-winning documentary. The exhibitors’ excused their decisions citing fear of reprisals from nationalists who have been vocal in their disapproval of the Louie Psihoyos film. Maybe their fears are legitimate, maybe not. Regardless, it must be noted that THE COVE did screen at the Tokyo International Film Festival and was just shown at a civic hall in the capital city and featured a hearty post-show discussion (though, apparently, that talk veered more towards issues of censorship than the depicted animal cruelty).

While it is dismaying that broader audiences in Japan will have very limited opportunities to see THE COVE — and then, to draw their own conclusions — before we condemn them, consider America’s own similar, “silent” censorship practices. Have you seen THE END OF THE LINE or KING CORN on network tv? The former film warns of the depletion of our oceans’ resources, the latter clarifies the nefarious implications of our nation’s addiction to commercial corn. Strangely, none of the Big Four (and a half) networks have slated them to air. Like FOOD, INC., KING CORN has received a slot on PBS, but really, does anyone over 6 and under 60 watch public television? Is it crazy to suspect that corporate interests that support free tv with their ads have influenced the decisions to steer clear of these controversial docs that beg viewers to reconsider the entire infrastructure, sense and health of our nation’s industrial(ized) food system? Somehow,I don’t foresee McDonald’s underwriting an uninterrupted broadcast of FAST FOOD NATION, Richard Linklater’s uneven, yet still potent adaptation of Eric Schlosser’s investigative return to The Jungle.

Then, ask yourself why we’ve never seen a soldier’s corpse or coffin on a network or cable newscast or the bloody aftermath of our interventions in Iraq or Afghanistan. How could we embed that many journalists without getting a body count of contracted killers, opposing soldiers and innocent civilians in addition to our own official casualties.

Or, ask why it is that BP’s stockholders are guaranteed greater access to information regarding the company’s disastrous (mis)handling of its oil spill than the general public or those directly near it? Why the gulf between the fiscally-harmed and the physically imperiled?

Mainstream media does no more to insure our access to all of the evidence than JD Salinger did to supply the tabloids with celebrity fodder. So, while I pity the Japanese who will remain unaware of the heinous practices of one of its country’s fishing communities and the toxic consequences for local schoolchildren, I remind myself that Big Food — with a proactive assist from our government!  — bars Americans from seeing how our pigs, chickens and cattle are raised and slaughtered. I hated watching dolphins bludgeoned in THE COVE and I despise the (unseen) treatment of livestock at American CAFOs. But just like the Japanese, we jeopardize species including own, excusing our practices with the same, (wet) blanket explanation that ‘it’s part of our nation’s culture.’

Of course, you need look no further than cheese in your refrigerator to realize that some cultures,no matter how much you love them, just plain stink.

Below, RIFF’s official press release from its delightful curators, Win and Sarah Whittaker…

Heroic, Shocking And Revealing Films Highlight This Year’s Rainier Independent Film Festival Lineup

Screenings, workshops and gatherings will be held in unique venues in Mt. Rainier’s Ashford Valley from June 11 to 13, 2010

ASHFORD, Washington – June 2, 2010 – An eclectic blend of 28 poignant short and feature length narratives and documentaries will be screened at the Rainier Independent Film Festival (RIFF) on June 11 to 13, 2010 in the Ashford Valley. In addition to screenings, the festival, in its fourth year, offers a workshop, audience-voted awards, an awards ceremony, social gatherings, and the rare opportunity to mix and mingle with the many filmmakers and actors in attendance.

“What sets this film festival apart is the great opportunity it provides to meet and mingle with film industry people,” remarked RIFF Festival Director Win Whittaker. “The relaxed atmosphere and intimate venues are a world away from the hustle and bustle associated with the film business.”

The festival’s opening night film will be Calvin Marshall, directed by Gary Lundgren and starring Steve Zahn, Michelle Lombardo and Alex Frost. This heartfelt, baseball-centric feature-length comedy will be shown at the Mineral Lake Event Center on Friday, June 11, at 6:15PM, followed by the Opening Night Gala, at 8PM.

A block of four war/conflict-based short films – Letter Home, Hidden in Time, Juche Rules, and Sedako’s Cranes — ranging from Hiroshima to Viet Nam/Iraqi similarities to North Korea relations will be screened at Nisqually Lodge, from 11AM to 12:30PM on Saturday, May 3. Other films will take the audience from hippie farms in Washington (Back to the Garden) to the ancient ways of the Salish peoples with Canoe Way and on to Burma: Reflections on a Hidden Land. Woman’s courage and feats will be celebrated with Rise and Shine, The Lady & The Outlaw Horse, and Wings of Silver. Viewers will be taken into an imaginative world with Plant Girl and kept on the edge of their seats with the emotionally charged, student film Clemency.

The ever-popular Warren Etheridge Workshop — “The Art of the Interview or How to Grill a Star” – will take place at the Media Center at Whittaker’s Bunkhouse on Sunday, June 13, from 1 to 2:30PM.

Filmed in Seattle, The Immaculate Conception of Little Dizzle, will be screened on Sunday, at the Mineral Lake Event Center at 6PM, prior to the Closing Gala and Awards Ceremony. “Simultaneously cynical and life-affirming, [Director David] Russo’s comedy manages to incorporate biochemical engineering, corporate chicanery, drug addiction and high-art pretension—all while maintaining an amiable, insouciant charm.”

A pass to all screenings, workshops and parties for all three days is $35. A day-pass for all screenings and workshops on Saturday or Sunday is $15. A ticket to the festival launch on Friday including the screening, the gala and two free drinks is $15. Tickets are available online through Brown Paper Tickets (http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/114771), at Whittaker Mountaineering and at Whittaker’s Bunkhouse, both in Ashford. A ticket for a single screening or workshop is $5 and can be purchased at any of the three screening venues or online.

Just miles from the Nisqually entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, screening venues include the Mineral Lake Event Center, a refurbished 1940s grade school with a gymnasium seating up to 500 people; Nisqually Lodge Conference Center, seating up to 45 people; and the Yurt at Wellspring, in a tranquil setting amongst the trees at the Wellspring Spa & Retreat.

The Rainier Independent Film Festival is dedicated to providing truly independent filmmakers a venue to have their films screened. Nestled in the tranquil foothills surrounding Mt. Rainier, the Ashford Valley provides an ideal setting for RIFF.

For more information as well as a full screening schedule, please access http://www.rainierfilmfest.com.

In Columbia Pictures’ THE KARATE KID, 12-year-old Dre Parker (Jaden Smith) could’ve been the most popular kid in Detroit, but his mother’s (Taraji P. Henson) latest career move has landed him in China.  Dre immediately falls for his classmate Mei Ying – and the feeling is mutual – but cultural differences make such a friendship impossible. Even worse, Dre’s feelings make an enemy of the class bully, Cheng.  In the land of kung fu, Dre knows only a little karate, and Cheng puts “the karate kid” on the floor with ease.  With no friends in a strange land, Dre has nowhere to turn but maintenance man Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), who is secretly a master of kung fu.  As Han teaches Dre that kung fu is not about punches and parries, but maturity and calm, Dre realizes that facing down the bullies will be the fight of his life.

MISS NOBODY

A mild-mannered secretary discovers that she has a talent for murder during her unlikely climb up the corporate ladder at Judge Pharmaceuticals…and love soon follows.

In attendance: Star and Executive Producer, LESLIE BIBB (Iron Man I & II, Wristcutters: A Love Story), ADAM GOLDBERG (Saving Private Ryan, A Beautiful Mind, Entourage, Friends), MISSI PLYLE (2 ½ Men, Sarah Silverman Program, Harold and Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, etc) and BRANDON ROUTH (Chuck, Superman Returns, Zack and Miri Make a Porno) and Director TIM COX.

Screenings:

Thursday, June 10, 9:15pm Harvard Exit

Saturday, June 12, 1:15pm SIFF Cinema

THE FAMILY TREE

In the seemingly perfect American suburb of Serenity, Ohio, the dysfunctional Burnett family is coming apart at the seams. When a tryst gone wrong leaves Mrs. Burnett’s with short term amnesia, the result is a whacky series of events that will either bring the family together or ruin them for good.

In attendance: Director Vivi Friedman, Writer/Producer Mark Lisson (Bainbridge Island resident), stars John Patrick Amedori (Gossip Girl) and Madeline Zime (Californication, The Nanny)

Screenings:

Saturday, June 12, 6:30pm SIFF Cinema

Sunday, June 13, 1:30pm SIFF Cinema

1) The SIFF programmer introducing the movie and questioning director Jeff Reichert was as intelligible as Bronson Pinchot’s Balki and as intelligent as Dan Quayle’s Dan Quayle. (Is it too much to ask, SIFF, that your programming team show filmmakers a little respect?)

2) GERRYMANDERING may be the first political documentary I have ever seen to offer absolutely no solutions to the problem it details. I don’t expect filmmakers to cure all our ills, but the meager end credit prompts to “Know Your District” and to visit a website (www.endgerrymandering.com) seem under-instructive. (I don’t know how many slacktivists it takes to change a light bulb, but I do know that giving audiences achievable action items beats having no INCONVENIENT alternatives.)

3) Gerrymandering — i.e. the redistricting of voting communities in service of political hackery — is clearly a problem and, possibly, a great threat to our democracy. (Sorry, Texas Board of Education, I will continue to call America a “democracy” even if you propose textbooks redefine our nation as a “Constitutional Republic.”) But, is gerrymandering the sickness or is it rather, simply, a symptom of a more insidious disease?

Frankly, I don’t know what to do about the first issue I’ve raised and I can only wish GERRYMANDERING had been clearer what to do about the second. However, I’ll take a crack at the last. There is no doubt that if legislators can reapportion voters to increase the likelihood of incumbents’ re-election, there exists a conflict of interest that will, invariably, favor the powers-that-shall-always-be rather than their constituents. Yet, it is these very demographic calisthenics that suggest the problem runs far deeper, to the very heart of the politicians and the soullessness of the parties they represent. They indicate that self-perpetuation, influence-peddling and partisanship have overtaken true public service as the primary raison d’etre of our elected officials. This may not be news to many, but let us not become so jaded as to disregard this egocentrism as the cancer that must be removed in order to have any hope of recovery. It just could be that commissioners appointed by elected Republicans and  Democrats might be more efficient overseeing redistricting than California’s pending citizens committee (as voted in with the state’s Prop 11 in 2008), if the former were guided solely by the notion of good government instead of the self-serving maintenance of the status quo.

Of course, we may also need to redefine our notions of governance. Redistricting, even when managed impartially, suggests that certain populations — divisible by race or socio-economic backgrounds — require different representation due to different agendas. Yet if we are to embrace the Declaration of Independence and grant that we all are “created equal,” shouldn’t we assume that any honest politician (yes, oxymoronic, I know) would consider the greater good, thus benefit us all? The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few, right? Or does that only work for Mr. Spock and fall flat in this era of political correctness? Perhaps it’s hard to believe, majority rule can respect minority interests once we accept that Americans are not independent but interdependent.

Near the end of GERRYMANDERING, an incredibly significant question is tossed aside like pedestrians in the path of Lizzie Grubman’s SUV; the age-old debate: should politicians serve the people who reside within their districts or act in service of their own consciences? What do you think, dear readers? I’d like to see Mr. Smith — or Ms. Nguyen or gender-undefined Jones — go to Washington and represent an ideal or two. I’d like to witness governance by informed instinct of the individual, or, Leadership as it was once known. Screw consensus and second terms.

As we cannot legislate Integrity, I propose that our two-party system be overhauled, not by adding a third but rather by eliminating both. I’ve had enough of Democrats and Republicans… and Tea-Partiers, Green-Partiers, Libertarians and Lyndon LaRouchebags. Get rid of them all. Let’s ban political advertising and force candidates to meet their constituents and explain their positions face-to-face in complete sentences, not tailored sound-bites. If candidates were forced to listen to the voters instead of talking down to them, discourse would thrive and accountability would be revived. Finally, governance could achieve Abraham Lincoln’s stated goal of being by the people, for the people… even if we didn’t always agree with the decisions made on our behalf.

Have I got your vote?

(For more about the need for election reform, check out my interview/s with David Earnhardt, director of UNCOUNTED.)

Now that LOST has finally come to an (unsatisfactory) end, perhaps we all should just move along as well. But what of all our unanswered questions? Thanks to Sven Liden for directing me to College Humor for this succinct, if not brief, encapsulation, of LOST’s many loopholes.

Do you have answers or were you satisfied by the series’ tear-jerking finale?

Eric Liu & Warren Etheredge

Kim Doyel: Just caught your interview with Eric Liu on Seattle Voices…I want a College of Warren sweatshirt! But that wasn’t all… your little mug popped up in a cameo for Sip & Ship! I thought I was hallucinating. When are you gonna get that 24 hour All Warren All the Time channel deal through?

WARREN: Just working out the details with CNN, Kim. Although I cannot yet report around-the-clock coverage , I am proud to announce that next month will see the launch of my new tv series, The High Bar, on SCANtv. It’s a genre-redefining program — a reverse(!) interview show — on which my irreverent cultural conversations with filmmakers, authors, artists and activists will encourage us all to reconsider our beliefs and challenge our standards… while laughing and getting drunk. Keep an eye on The Warren Report for further details.

And, for those who missed my appearance on Seattle Voices, visit their website and suggest they add it to The Seattle Channel’s video player. Eric Liu is a solid interviewer, a charming individual and the whip-smart (co-) author of several significant books including Imagination First and The True Patriot.

As for College of Warren merchandise, I’m unhappy to report that, currently, supply is meeting demand.    ;  )

Now, dear readers, draw your own conclusions: Is it time for a new, educational forum? Should The Warren Report begin matriculating students? Is it too early for our first kegger?

Paul Ringo:

WARREN: From my years of teaching, I’ve learned one of the most important lessons to share with kids is that it’s okay to say: I don’t know. No one can know it all. (Even Einstein couldn’t color-coordinate. That’s why he invented Garanimals®!) Well, Paul, in this case, I just don’t know. You’ve stumped me. However, the other lesson is to ask for help when you need it. So, I turn to you, cherished readers of The Warren Report, to put a title to Paul’s obscure film reference. Anybody? Anybody? Bueller?!?

Devin Hermanson

WARREN: Thanks, Devin. Sadly, I wasn’t even considered for RDJ’s stand-in despite my looking so much like his half-witted, less-attractive brother. I think of my kinship to Robert Downey Jr much like Clint Howard’s to Ron. Granted, this a huge step up from the days folks compared me to Wallace Shawn and Gilbert Gottfried.

Devin Hermanson:

WARREN: Nope. Sorry, Devin. That’s not to say it’s a thumbs down, either. The free previews offered through The Warren Report are thanks to my relationships with the studios and their regional publicists. They contact me knowing that The Warren Report’s readership is comprised of savvy and connected movie-lovers. By sharing seats at these WOM (word-of-mouth) screenings, they hope to  build buzz for their films. Often, I am seeing the movies for the first time alongside you. (I am just as hopeful that the pairing of  Jonah Hill and Russell Brand will be hilarious but can be no more certain than you that it will be.)

However, when I feature a film in one of The Warren Report’s special screening series (Distinguishing Features, ACT NOW! or Film Rap) this is an indication of my strong, informed support of the title. Special event presentation is my stamp of approval. For instance, keep an eye out for SIXTY SIX, starring Eddie Marsan and Helena Bonham Carter, which I hope to showcase this summer.

**To request a seat, send an e-mail to warren@thewarrenreport.com with your name and the name of any guest, please.** (Screening begins at 7pm on Thursday, May 20th. Arrive  early. Seating is NOT guaranteed.)

http://www.gethimtothegreek.net/

Aaron Green (Jonah Hill) gets things done. The ambitious 24-year-old has been given a career making assignment. His mission: Fly to London and escort a rock god to L.A.’s world famous Greek Theatre for the first stop on a huge comeback tour. His record mogul boss, Sergio Roma (Sean Combs), gives him one warning: “The artist is the worst person on Earth. Turn your back on him at your own peril.”

British rocker Aldous Snow (Russell Brand) is a brilliant musician, but due to a bad break up and nose diving career, he has fallen off the wagon and is now a drunken disaster. Weary and scared he’s entered the “greatest hits” moment in his career, Snow’s in the midst of a nihilistic downward spiral. When he learns his true love, model/pop star Jackie Q (Rose Byrne), is in Los Angeles, Aldous makes it his quest to win her back.. .right before kick-starting his world domination.

As the countdown to the concert begins, one innocent young man must navigate a minefield of London drug smuggles, New York City brawls and Vegas lap dances to deliver his charge safe and, sort of, sound. all while trying to remain faithful to his med student girlfriend (Elisabeth Moss). He may have to coax, lie to, enable and party with Aldous, but Aaron will… GET HIM  TO THE GREEK.

Neil Navani: Did you see GOODBYE SOLO? If so, your thoughts?

WARREN : I have seen GOODBYE SOLO, Neil, and think it is one of the best films of 2009. Ramin Bahrani is an incredible filmmaker, one of the best of the new generation. (Have you seen MAN PUSH CART and CHOP SHOP?) He gets great performances, mostly from non-professional, inexperienced  or under-appreciated actors in roles that are refreshingly dynamic and NOT traditionally heroic. Ramin crafts compelling characters by concentrating on what it means to be human rather than that what it means to fulfill Christopher Vogler’s structural demands.

Souleymane Sy Savane and Red West are a formidable, if odd, coupling in SOLO. The unlikely kinship between a Sengalese taxi driver and a mournful, ol’ cuss provokes consideration of the societal evolution of America thru the eyes of the immigrant and the retroactively-disenfranchised. Ramin is the rare filmmaker  concerned with our nation’s working class, as opposed to the upscale doctors, lawyers, cops and rubes that populate prime-time television. Of course, his dedication to non-white perspectives are in Stark contrast to the tony playboys of this summer’s blockbusters.

I would see anything Ramin makes and urge you to rent (or buy) his previous films as soon as you can. (I need to track down PLASTIC BAG, his most recent effort, a collaboration with Werner Herzog.) They are honest, fascinating portraits of  folks on the alleged fringes that actually constitute the majority of our populace. To better understand our future, examine the passed… over.

For the record, I am working on luring Ramin Bahrani to Seattle to speak at TheFilmSchool in July.

Now, dear readers, what do you think of GOODBYE SOLO? What do you think of Ramin Bahrani? Is he the Paddy Chayefsky of our day, the cinematic Studs Terkel?

MULTIPLE SARCASMS reminds that the unexamined life is not worth living, but its protagonist makes the case that the examiners may not be worth living… with. Playing a fitfully charming, charmlessly fitful architect, Timothy Hutton, escapes his family and career inertia by immersing himself in playwriting. He locks himself in his bathroom to do so, an appropriate venue for most aspiring artistes. Odds and talent be damned, on screen, this novice succeeds, supported by an agent (the apparently age-less Stockard Channing) and tolerated by his wife (the lovely Dana Delany) and precocious daughter (the precocious India Ennenga), despite the fact Broadway’s rising star identifies himself as the center of any and every solar system. Of course, the distance between his skewed perspective and others’ reality may be many, many light years.

It is tempting to applaud the lead’s efforts to express himself, but at what cost? In a conversation with writer-director Brooks Branch, he assures me that all the characters benefit from Hutton’s egocentrism, though I’m not sure I buy familial estrangement and abandonment as “ones to grow on.” Are we meant to evolve individually regardless of the consequences suffered by others? Is there no room for compassion and maturity in self-actualization? Yes, we must seek our true selves, but can’t those closest to us join the quest?

Auteur Branch crafts MULTIPLE SARCASMS as a retro tribute to the works of Bob Rafaelson and Hal Ashby. The script rambles, the players amble thru its non-traditional narrative. It’s like a cinematic spin on a Choose Your Own Adventure book; in fact, one may sense a second viewing would alter the outcome. The production team does yeoman work recreating New York in the 1970s, though the film features three other anachronisms, the most jarring, a reference to a Ryan O’Neal movie that was released in the 80s. The cast is time-sensitive, too: Delany is sharp, though sparingly seen, Hutton is solid, if unsympathetic and the standout is Mario Van Peebles who steels his scene with an iron-clad commitment to playing gay… well, straight. (He also provides a hilarious capper to the end credits, which are already a delight due to the graphic montage that picks up where the film’s limited interstitials left off,  visual clues to one character’s own artistic future.) Only Mira Sorvino fails to synchronize her calendar, playing Hutton’s indefatigable friend as if auditioning for a hopeless NBC sitcom in the 90s, a spinoff of Caroline in the City, perhaps.

MULTIPLE SARCASMS — now open in Seattle at the Regal Meridian 16 and the AMC Loews Oak Tree 6 — explores the intersection of artistry and self-identity, promising profundity from self-reflection rather than the loveless damnation of Narcissus. Even though Branch assures Hope abounds in his movie, I strongly suggest Hutton — and the rest of us — question how much time we spend self-absorbed for, at some point, we may long for more than our own image and listen to that distant voice. Might that Echo actually be our soul mate?

Key lime pie is a highwire act, the baker must gingerly walk the divide between tart and sweet, solid and smooth. Defying physics and phobias, Porter channels Phillipe Petit, balancing a crunchy, crumb crust with a delectable curd, slightly sweet whipped cream with twisted, candied lime wedges that serve as an aesthetic and gastronomic flourish, allowing this key lime pie to cross over from dessert to literal manna. This is not a matter of taste, it’s not even question of faith, A La Mode’s Key Lime Pie is simply proof of the existence of the divine. Bless you, Chris Porter.

Innovators: “We just Click!” The Magic of Instant Connections

With best selling author of Sway, Ori Brafman

Hosted by Lara Feltin & Warren Etheredge in Seattle, Washington

When: Tuesday, June 15 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Pulling Focus

Join us for the last in our series of panels about the business of film featuring Stephen Gyllenhaal (LOSING ISAIAH, HOMEGROWN, Numb3rs, Army Wives) and Peggy Rajski (TOWELHEAD, HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS, BEE SEASON, THE GRIFTERS)

Moderated by Warren Etheredge

CROSS-CUTTING
They say, if ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Problem is, a combination of technology, the economy and the great audience diaspora has shattered everything we thought we knew about modern media. So, it’s time to bust out the SuperGlue, don our thinking caps and get busy because “old school” is out for good. But before we can rewrite a business plan for the industry, we need to closely examine our former failures and embrace our revised goals. What constitutes success and how do we best achieve it in the biz? Is there a greater good than the bottom line? How do we profit in today’s era of tipping points and long tails?

Tuesday, May 11
Sorrento Hotel / Top of the Tower Room
900 Madison Avenue (Madison and Terry)

6:30pm     Doors

7:00pm     Discussion with Stephen Gyllenhaal & Peggy Rajski

Cocktail Reception hosted by the Washington Wine Commission to follow event.

Avanced Tickets Brown Paper Tickets:
$10 General Public
$5 Participating Organization Member.  Please contact participating organization to receive discount code.
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/109839

Tickets Day of Event (Cash Only):
$15 General Public
$10 Participating Organization Member

____________

About Pulling Focus:

Pulling Focus is a series of three panels about the business of film designed to speak to the diversity of audience members, from screenwriters to actors, from directors to producers and on to musicians.  The goal is to elevate the conversation and design a dialogue that will have a little something for everyone and simultaneously help to give our community a rock solid education about how business is done in the film industry.

Pulling Focus:

Join us for the last in our series of panels about the business of film featuring Stephen Gyllenhaal (LOSING ISAIAH, HOMEGROWN, Numb3rs, Army Wives) and Peggy Rajski (TOWELHEAD, HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS, BEE SEASON, THE GRIFTERS)

Moderated by Warren Etheredge

CROSS-CUTTING
They say, if ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Problem is, a combination of technology, the economy and the great audience diaspora has shattered everything we thought we knew about modern media. So, it’s time to bust out the SuperGlue, don our thinking caps and get busy because “old school” is out for good. But before we can rewrite a business plan for the industry, we need to closely examine our former failures and embrace our revised goals. What constitutes success and how do we best achieve it in the biz? Is there a greater good than the bottom line? How do we profit in today’s era of tipping points and long tails?

Tuesday, May 11
Sorrento Hotel / Top of the Tower Room
900 Madison Avenue (Madison and Terry)

6:30pm     Doors

7:00pm     Discussion with Stephen Gyllenhaal & Peggy Rajski

Cocktail Reception hosted by the Washington Wine Commission to follow event.

Avanced Tickets Brown Paper Tickets:
$10 General Public
$5 Participating Organization Member.  Please contact participating organization to receive discount code.  
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/109839

Tickets Day of Event (Cash Only):
$15 General Public
$10 Participating Organization Member

____________

About Pulling Focus:

Pulling Focus is a series of three panels about the business of film designed to speak to the diversity of audience members, from screenwriters to actors, from directors to producers and on to musicians.  The goal is to elevate the conversation and design a dialogue that will have a little something for everyone and simultaneously help to give our community a rock solid education about how business is done in the film industry.

Grunpeter died on the last day of production and his loss might be considered as tragic as the better publicized passings of Heath Ledger and River Phoenix. At least they had commercial successes to memorialize their skills. Grunpeter appeared in a couple of European tv series and had a small role in a flick with Julie Delpy and Steven Berkoff. TRACING COWBOYS should have heralded Grunpeter’s arrival, instead it serves as his cinematic epitaph: Truth lies here.

Edwards is seldom seen on screen, but is quietly captivating every time. She can charm comedically as in TATTOO, A LOVE STORY or tantalize dramatically as in COWBOYS. Physically petite, she still exudes enough energy to suggest an imminent starburst. Here, much of her work is relegated to voice-over, though it is the quest to find her that drives the story.

Indeed, TRACING COWBOYS is a back-handed homage to THE SEARCHERS. They are loosely paralleled narratively, while the John Ford western directly propels the leads in Jason Wuhlfson’s deep southwestern. The two are connected visually, thanks to the awe-striking cinematography of David Robinson who reinvents Winton Hoch’s sunlight-suffused vistas, cleverly juxtaposing them with tight, hand-held sequences that return us to the main character’s perspective, his near-suffocating pursuit.

TRACING COWBOYS is imperfect. Its pace taunts more than teases. Its resolution both rewards and disregards our patience. Nevertheless, the contributions of Robinson, Edwards and the late Grunpeter — in addition to a stellar soundtrack — advocate for home viewing on a rainy, heartsick night.

Perhaps we’d be wise to take a similar tack in confronting child abuse. In a recent interview with Jeannie Yandel for KUOW Presents, I highlight three movies that allow us to do just that. If we are to combat child abuse, maybe it best if we understood its root causes and consider the possibility that it is not an isolated consequence of Evil but rather a frightening potential within most of us… if it is ignored rather than acknowledged.

Please  listen to the interview, watch the movies (TOWELHEAD, THE WOODSMAN, DELIVER US FROM EVIL) and suggest your own solutions. Or, look into organizations such as Children’s Trust Foundation and all they are doing to stem the rising tide of child neglect and abuse.

In Words & Wine events, guests mingle with the author while sipping award-winning wines from Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and enjoying savory nibbles prepared by The Hunt Club. For the highlight of the evening, the engaging Warren Etheredge, of The Warren Report, leads an intimate and entertaining on-stage interview and conversation with the author. A copy of the book, signed for you by the author after the interview, is included in the $50 ticket cost, in addition to all wines and appetizers.

Words & Wine with Peter Mayle Friday July 16 6pm Sorrento Hotel, Seattle Spend a summer evening sipping wine and chatting all things French with Peter Mayle, in Seattle to discuss his latest novel, The Vintage Caper. The setting is the historic Sorrento Hotel’s Top of the Town, and we’ll enjoy appetizers and Ste Michelle wines while Warren Etheredge interviews Mayle about his books and his life in Paris and Provence. From Hollywood to Marseille with delicious stops in between, Peter Mayle’s latest novel is filled with the culinary delights and entertaining characters that made him our treasured chronicler of la vie Francais. After lawyer Danny Roth’ impressive wine cellar is featured in the LA Times, he finds himself the victim of a world-class wine heist. The search for the missing liquid treasure leads to Bordeaux and Provence, and along the way we, and the characters, get to enjoy all of France’s sensory delights.

	Peter Mayle

“A lighthearted romp, in which picking the right restaurant, choosing the best dish on the menu and of course, finding the perfect wine (and female companion) to accompany the feast is every bit as important as catching the thief.” —Los Angeles Times All wines, appetizers and a copy of The Vintage Caper are included in the $50 per person cost, along with a magical summer evening with one of our most charming writers. Peter Mayle is the author of eleven previous books, including A Year in Provence, French Lessons: Adventures with Knife, Fork, and Corkscrew, A Good Year, Hotel Pastis and Chasing Cezanne. He received the Legion d’Honneur from the French government for his cultural contributions, and has lived in Provence for twenty years.

In recognition of their dedication to improving the health and well-being of the human community, Bastyr University will confer honorary doctoral degrees on Dr. Mehmet Oz and his wife, Lisa Oz. The evening will also include a conversation with the honorary guests, moderated by Warren Etheredge.

Register today for An Evening with Dr. Oz and Lisa Oz.*

Location:

Bastyr University Chapel
14500 Juanita Drive NE
Kenmore, Washington 98028

Tickets:

$500 for VIP Reception at 6 p.m.
$125 for the general attendance at 7:30 p.m.

Mehmet Oz, MD

Dr. Oz, host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” is vice-chair and professor of surgery at Columbia University. He directs the Cardiovascular Institute and Complementary Medicine Program at New York Presbyterian Hospital. He has authored more than 400 original publications, book chapters and medical books and has received several patents. He performs 250 heart operations annually. He lives in Cliffside Park, NJ, with his wife of 23 years, Lisa, and their four children: Daphne, Arabella, Zoe and Oliver.

Lisa Oz

Lisa Oz is a writer, actress, producer and co-host of “The Dr. Oz Show” on Oprah Radio, Sirius and XM. She is co-author of five New York Times best-selling books in addition to her latest, US: Transforming Ourselves and the Relationships that Matter Most. She is the co-founder of HealthCorps, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health of America’s youth through school-based peer mentoring.

For more details or underwriting, contact Julie Herbison at 
jherbison@bastyr.edu or (425) 602-3053.

* Note: You will be redirected to a third-party website, blackbaud.com, for secure online registration.

Somehow, I doubt Mr. Grann (author of the best-selling The Lost City of Z) was compensated for his contributions to the “Torch” episode of SVU. And, I doubt producers made any donation to the Innocence Project. In light of these oversights, I urge you, dear readers, to do what you do best. Read. More. In particular, pick up a copy of David Grann’s provocative collection of essays, The Devil and Sherlock Holmes: Tales of Murder, Madness, and Obsession. It is the best book of journalistic non-fiction I have read in many years. (And I’m not just saying that because I hosted Mr. Grann at Words & Wine earlier this year and consider him amongst the best interview subjects ever.) Chock full of colorful characters and unbelievable storylines, you, too, may be tempted to write scripts based on what you discover in Grann’s book and, if you do, I trust you’ll do the proper thing and buy the rights first.

(In fairness, Cold Case apparently featured a similarly “inspired” episode, though I have not seen it.)

Moderated by Warren Etheredge

___________

DIGITAL UPRISING
The digital revolution may not be televised. While many boast about the democratizing impact of new, inexpensive technology, has it created false hope instead? Movie-makers may now be able to shoot for next to nothing, but how can the truly independent distribute and market their work? Does digital enable greater creativity or engender a greater dependence on established institutions? How can the film community avoid the pitfalls of analog paradigms and best profit from the latest advancements?

Tuesday, May 4
Sorrento Hotel / Top of the Tower Room
900 Madison Avenue (Madison and Terry)

6:30pm     Doors
7:00pm     Discussion with Michael Arrieta & Hanson Hosein
Cocktail Reception hosted by the Washington Wine Commission to follow event.

Tickets
$15 General Public
$10 Participating Organization Member.  Please contact participating organization to receive discount code.
Purchase COMBO tickets early for both May 4th and May 11th Pulling Focus events and receive a discount.

Brown Paper Tickets:
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/109837
Tickets also available at the door day of event depending on availability (cash only).  COMBO tickets will not be available for purchase on May 4th so make sure to get them early at Brown Paper Tickets.

Guest Bio:
Michael Arrieta
Founder & CEO Big Air Studios

Michael has over 20 years experience in the entertainment and new media business.  A true pioneer in digital media, Michael spent the last 12 years of his career at Sony Pictures where he oversaw the formation and operation of all Sony’s Digital Entertainment businesses as well as programming, games and services.  Michael established Sony’s licensing, ad sales and distribution relationships that drove new revenue sources from all business models across all digital platforms.  His divisions included Digital Content Production, Digital Distribution, Online and Mobile Video Networks, Online and Mobile Games, Promotional Websites, Digital Ad Sales and Technology/Advanced Platforms.

Through his leadership Sony Pictures was the first to offer film and television downloads on the internet, the first to offer full-length film on mobile phones, the first to offer film in virtual worlds, the first to create professional content for the internet and the first to launch a user-generated video service (Sony Screenblast, 2001).  Michael has produced over 200 websites including Sonypictures.com, over 75 mobile and online games – winning the coveted “Game of the Year” award in both 2005 and 2006 – and has produced over 35 made for digital series – including the first made-for-digital movie Angel of Death.

Michael has established deals with the biggest companies in the traditional and digital entertainment world, including iTunes, Xbox, PlayStation, Blockbuster, CinemaNow, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, YouTube, Hulu, AOL, Yahoo!, MSN, Netflix, Vudu, TiVo, DivX, Samsung, HP, Dell, Nokia, Motorola, AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, T-Mobile and Starz.

Prior to Sony, Michael worked for 20th Century Fox and Morgan Creek Productions, and served as a strategic consultant in the Entertainment Group at Price Waterhouse.  Michael is a C.P.A and earned his B.A. in Economics and M.B.A from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Hanson Hosein
Director of the Master of Communication in Digital Media at the University of Washington in Seattle

Hanson Hosein specializes in storytelling, social media strategies and new models of communication. As President of HRH Media, he employed this expertise to direct the award-winning documentary films “Rising from Ruins” and “Independent America: The Two-Lane Search for Mom & Pop,” which have been broadcast around the world and widely distributed online via Hulu and Yahoo!. Hanson advises organizations and companies such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Boston University, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and the Public Relations Society of America on media strategy. He has also won Emmy and Overseas Press Club Awards for his work as a television journalist with NBC News. He was embedded with the U.S. military in Iraq and covered the impact of the war throughout the Middle East, armed only with a laptop, satellite phone and camcorder. Hanson has a Masters degree in journalism from Columbia University, and law degrees from Montreal’s McGill University and the University of Paris. He’s presently occupied with writing a book on storytelling in the digital age, hosting TEDx Seattle, and building the Media Space at the University of Washington, which aims to be a hub and business incubator for the Pacific Northwest’s digital media community. Hanson serves on the boards of the Common Language Project, UWTV, Puget Sound Off and is an affiliate member of the Jackson School’s Middle East Center.

____________

About Pulling Focus:

Pulling Focus is a series of three panels about the business of film designed to speak to the diversity of audience members, from screenwriters to actors, from directors to producers and on to musicians.  The goal is to elevate the conversation and design a dialogue that will have a little something for everyone and simultaneously help to give our community a rock solid education about how business is done in the film industry.

Moderated by Warren Etheredge

___________

DIGITAL UPRISING
The digital revolution may not be televised. While many boast about the democratizing impact of new, inexpensive technology, has it created false hope instead? Movie-makers may now be able to shoot for next to nothing, but how can the truly independent distribute and market their work? Does digital enable greater creativity or engender a greater dependence on established institutions? How can the film community avoid the pitfalls of analog paradigms and best profit from the latest advancements?

Tuesday, May 4
Sorrento Hotel / Top of the Tower Room
900 Madison Avenue (Madison and Terry)

6:30pm     Doors
7:00pm     Discussion with Michael Arrieta & Hanson Hosein
Cocktail Reception hosted by the Washington Wine Commission to follow event.

Tickets
$15 General Public
$10 Participating Organization Member.  Please contact participating organization to receive discount code.
Purchase COMBO tickets early for both May 4th and May 11th Pulling Focus events and receive a discount.

Brown Paper Tickets:
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/109837
Tickets also available at the door day of event depending on availability (cash only).  COMBO tickets will not be available for purchase on May 4th so make sure to get them early at Brown Paper Tickets.

Guest Bio:
Michael Arrieta
Founder & CEO Big Air Studios

Michael has over 20 years experience in the entertainment and new media business.  A true pioneer in digital media, Michael spent the last 12 years of his career at Sony Pictures where he oversaw the formation and operation of all Sony’s Digital Entertainment businesses as well as programming, games and services.  Michael established Sony’s licensing, ad sales and distribution relationships that drove new revenue sources from all business models across all digital platforms.  His divisions included Digital Content Production, Digital Distribution, Online and Mobile Video Networks, Online and Mobile Games, Promotional Websites, Digital Ad Sales and Technology/Advanced Platforms.

Through his leadership Sony Pictures was the first to offer film and television downloads on the internet, the first to offer full-length film on mobile phones, the first to offer film in virtual worlds, the first to create professional content for the internet and the first to launch a user-generated video service (Sony Screenblast, 2001).  Michael has produced over 200 websites including Sonypictures.com, over 75 mobile and online games – winning the coveted “Game of the Year” award in both 2005 and 2006 – and has produced over 35 made for digital series – including the first made-for-digital movie Angel of Death.

Michael has established deals with the biggest companies in the traditional and digital entertainment world, including iTunes, Xbox, PlayStation, Blockbuster, CinemaNow, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, YouTube, Hulu, AOL, Yahoo!, MSN, Netflix, Vudu, TiVo, DivX, Samsung, HP, Dell, Nokia, Motorola, AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, T-Mobile and Starz.

Prior to Sony, Michael worked for 20^th Century Fox and Morgan Creek Productions, and served as a strategic consultant in the Entertainment Group at Price Waterhouse.  Michael is a C.P.A and earned his B.A. in Economics and M.B.A from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Hanson Hosein
Director of the Master of Communication in Digital Media at the University of Washington in Seattle

Hanson Hosein specializes in storytelling, social media strategies and new models of communication. As President of HRH Media, he employed this expertise to direct the award-winning documentary films “Rising from Ruins” and “Independent America: The Two-Lane Search for Mom & Pop,” which have been broadcast around the world and widely distributed online via Hulu and Yahoo!. Hanson advises organizations and companies such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Boston University, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and the Public Relations Society of America on media strategy. He has also won Emmy and Overseas Press Club Awards for his work as a television journalist with NBC News. He was embedded with the U.S. military in Iraq and covered the impact of the war throughout the Middle East, armed only with a laptop, satellite phone and camcorder. Hanson has a Masters degree in journalism from Columbia University, and law degrees from Montreal’s McGill University and the University of Paris. He’s presently occupied with writing a book on storytelling in the digital age, hosting TEDx Seattle, and building the Media Space at the University of Washington, which aims to be a hub and business incubator for the Pacific Northwest’s digital media community. Hanson serves on the boards of the Common Language Project, UWTV, Puget Sound Off and is an affiliate member of the Jackson School’s Middle East Center.

____________

About Pulling Focus:

Pulling Focus is a series of three panels about the business of film designed to speak to the diversity of audience members, from screenwriters to actors, from directors to producers and on to musicians.  The goal is to elevate the conversation and design a dialogue that will have a little something for everyone and simultaneously help to give our community a rock solid education about how business is done in the film industry.

International comedy selection

Admission: $10, plus service fee

Purchase Tickets to Today’s Special on:

In this super-feel-good foodie comedy, young Manhattan chef Samir rediscovers his heritage and his passion for life through the enchanting art of cooking Indian food. Directed by David Kaplan, written by Aasif Mandvi (The Daily Show With Jon Stewart ) and Jonathan Bines. Starring Aasif Mandvi, Madhur Jaffrey, Jess Weixler, Naseeruddin Shah, Harish Patel, Kevin Corrigan.

Running time: 99 minutes.

Attending the post-film Q&A: Madhur Jaffrey (Chef/Actress), Aasif Mandvi (Actor) and Nimitt Mankad (Producer)

Moderated by: Warren Etheredge of The Warren Report

International Drama/Documentary selection

Admission: $10, plus service fee       Purchase Tickets to The End of the Line on:

Imagine an ocean without fish. Imagine your meals without seafood. Imagine the global consequences. This is the future if we do not stop, think and act. THE END OF THE LINE is the first major feature documentary film revealing the impact of overfishing on our oceans. Filmed over two years and across the globe, THE END OF THE LINE follows the investigative reporter Charles Clover as he confronts politicians and celebrity restaurateurs, who exhibit little regard for the damage they are doing to the oceans. This powerful film features top scientists, indigenous fishermen and fisheries enforcement officials across the globe, from the Straits of Gibraltar to Alaska to the coasts of Senegal to the Tokyo fish market.

Running time: 90 minutes.

Attending the post-film Q&A : Dr. Ray Hilborn (UW Professor, Aquatic & Fisheries Sciences), John Foss (Coastal Rovers), Dr. Jennifer Jacquet (Ph.D. and post-doctoral researcher with the Sea Around Us Project at the UBC Fisheries Centre. Author of the blog Guilty Planet )

Moderated by: Warren Etheredge of The Warren Report

Local Filmmaker Showcase selection

Admission: $10, plus service fee      Purchase Tickets to Ingredients on:

A feature-length documentary, INGREDIENTS illustrates how people around the country are working to revitalize the connection between good food and our health. Narrated by Bebe Neuwirth, the film takes us across the U.S. from the diversified farms of the Hudson River and Willamette Valleys to the urban food deserts of Harlem and to the kitchens of celebrated chefs Alice Waters, Peter Hoffman, Greg Higgins and Cory Schreiber. INGREDIENTS is a journey that reveals the people behind the movement to bring good food back to the table and health back to our communities. Written and directed by Robert Bates, produced by Brian Kimmel.

Running time: 67 minutes.

Attending the post-film Q&A : Brian Kimmel (Producer and Cinematographer), Greg Higgins (Chef/Owner of Higgins Restaurant & Bar), Debra Sohm Lawson (Researcher/Producer), Cory Schreiber (Chef/Oregon Dept. of Agriculture)

Moderated by: Warren Etheredge of The Warren Report

BIZNIK INNOVATORS SERIES

INNOVATORS: Setting big things in motion using the universal power of pull

With celebrated authors John Hagel III & John Seely Brown

From the Harvard Business Review: In a ferociously dynamic world, what happens if we can’t plan but can only adapt? We must move, say the authors, from push to pull. At the center of the pull strategy is an individual (not a corporation) who has access to knowledge flows, takes advantage of porous boundaries and serendipitous interactions, and occupies new creative spaces to achieve a novel order of performance. I know. It’s a complex model with several moving parts. But it makes for an exhilarating read as the authors sublimely reinvent the world of enterprise.”

What others say about the two Johns and The Power of Pull

“The Power of Pull examines the “how question”—how can we effectively address our most pressing challenges in a rapidly changing and increasingly interdependent world. (The authors) highlight fascinating new ways in which passionate thinking, creative solutions, and committed action can—and will—make it possible for us to seize opportunities and remain in step with change.” - William Jefferson Clinton, 42nd President of the United States of America

“Hagel, Brown, and Davison have given us a provocative and insightful look at the power of today’s knowledge flow. If you want to meet the challenges of working and living in the 21st century, this book should be your guide.” - Eric Schmidt, Chairman and CEO of Google

“Stop whatever you are doing and read this amazing book. The authors totally nail it. Digging beneath the surface of stuff that distracts us on a daily basis, they unpack the deep forces that really truly matter and provide a guidebook each of us can use to unleash passion, transform how and why we work, and restore destiny and dignity to our lives.” -Richard Florida, author of The Rise of the Creative Class and The Great Reset

The Biznik Innovators Series connects members with some of the most premier innovative thought leaders published today in a swank downtown venue (with complimentary wine!) When the authors visit Seattle, we find innovative ways to celebrate their books, while providing you with a unique networking opportunity.

The engaging Warren Etheredge, of The Warren Report, will lead an intimate and entertaining on-stage conversation with the author that takes the entire event up a notch.

In addition…

• Before and after networking with the author and other guests in an intimate setting at the elegant Hotel 1000
• Free-flowing award-winning wines from Columbia Crest Wineries

AND in addition to the wine & appetizers, a copy of the book, signed for you by the author after the interview, is included in the ticket cost.

• 5:30pm-6pm Networking over complimentary wine & appetizers
• 6pm-7:15pm-ish On stage interview and Q&A with the author
• Until 8pm Book signing and networking

Previous Biznik Innovator guests have included: best selling authorDaniel Pink, Twitter’s Dom Sagolla, the “fierce” Susan Scott, Wine Library TV’s Gary Vaynerchuk, and blogger Chris Brogan.

What others say about the Biznik Innovators Series

“Very classy Biznik… Can’t believe that (with ProVIP) I got free wine, amazing Hors d’œuvres, a beautiful venue, fun networking with 135 people, a top-notch speaker & a free autographed book – for $30! Thanks for continuing to offer great events and being committed to supporting entrepreneurs and making our work as fun as possible.” -Leif Hansen

“Elegant, interesting, and I had great conversations with people before and after the interview. A great time and a great Value! Keep ‘em coming!” - David Brilbrey

Ticket includes a selection of wines, appetizers and a copy of the featured book. Reservations are required, and can be made here on our website by joining or logging into Biznik. (Basic membership in Biznik is free.)

NOTE ON PARKING. The Hotel 1000 is located on First Avenue in downtown Seattle, 2 blocks south of the Seattle Art Museum. There are parking lots and meters in the general area. The Hotel 1000 is also offering us a discount on valet parking for $9.50.

Note: Event attendance required to receive your copy of the book.

Oh, and for those who actually watch and listen to Window Seat, the song’s denouement, Ms. Badu’s condemnation of hateful thought and group-think seems best aimed at the very folks who would condemn her for exposing her beautiful convictions along with her body.

**PLEASE NOTE: You must print out your ticket and present it at the theater. Arrive early. Seating is NOT guaranteed.**

Starring: Andy Garcia, Juilanna Marguiles, Alan Arkin, Steven Strait, Dominik Garcia-Lorido, Ezra Miller and Emily Mortimer.

When prison guard and aspiring actor, Vince Rizzo (Andy Garcia) is asked to reveal his biggest secret during his drama class, he inadvertently sets off a chain of events that turns his mundane suburban life into total chaos. Vince takes great pains covering up his half-truths from his family, but soon it becomes clear that everyone—his hot-tempered wife (Julianna Margulies), college student daughter (Dominik Garcia-Lorido), long-lost ex-con son (Steven Strait), charismatic acting partner (Emily Mortimer) and even his drama coach (Alan Arkin)—all have secrets of their own. Everyone’s furtive deceptions collide with hilarious results. Set on City Island, a quaint fishing community on the outskirts of the Bronx, this smart and charming comedy explores the absurd secrets and vices people choose to keep from their loved ones…and the realization that the truth is easier to cope with than well-intentioned white lies.

CITY ISLAND is a funny and touching family tale about the secrets of the past catching up with the lies of the present, and accepting that nobody’s perfect – least of all your loved ones.

A copy of the book, signed for you by the author after the interview, is included in the $50 ticket cost, in addition to all wines and appetizers.

Michael Lewis
The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine
April 14
Sorrento Hotel
Doors open at 6,
interview begins at 7

Michael Lewis is the most entertaining chronicler of our modern times. He was a top bond trader at Salomon Bros before he left to become a writer. Liar’s Poker, his account of life on Wall Street, is one of the defining books of the ’80s.

	Michael Lewis

Lewis has gone on to tackle topics from Silicon Valley (The New, New Thing and Next) to baseball (Moneyball), to fatherhood (HomeGame). His book about football, The Blind Side, was recently adapted into an academy award nominated film.

His new book, The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine, is a character-rich and humorous study of how the U.S. economy was driven over the cliff, with a cast of real-life characters that includes villains, a few heroes and a lot of people who look very, very foolish.

The historic Sorrento Hotel will host our event, and the evening begins with appetizers and wine at 6 p.m. with onstage interview at 7. The Chateau St. Michelle will be providing our featured wines for the evening, and all wines, appetizers and a copy of The Big Short are included in the $50 per/person ticket price.

Kim Ricketts/Book Events connects people by creating author events in non-traditional venues. When authors visit Seattle, we find innovative ways to celebrate their books. Keep an eye out for our COOKS AND BOOKS visiting chef series and THE GOOD LIFE: books for better living events taking place at great venues about town.

For more information about Kim Ricketts/Book Events, to inquire about a private event, or to sign-up for our email list, call (206) 632-2419 or contact us.

A copy of the book, signed for you by the author after the interview, is included in the $50 ticket cost, in addition to all wines and appetizers.

Michael Lewis
The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine
April 14
Sorrento Hotel
Doors open at 6,
interview begins at 7

Michael Lewis is the most entertaining chronicler of our modern times. He was a top bond trader at Salomon Bros before he left to become a writer. Liar’s Poker, his account of life on Wall Street, is one of the defining books of the ’80s.

	Michael Lewis

Lewis has gone on to tackle topics from Silicon Valley (The New, New Thing and Next) to baseball (Moneyball), to fatherhood (HomeGame). His book about football,The Blind Side, was recently adapted into an academy award nominated film.

His new book, The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine, is a character-rich and humorous study of how the U.S. economy was driven over the cliff, with a cast of real-life characters that includes villains, a few heroes and a lot of people who look very, very foolish.

The historic Sorrento Hotel will host our event, and the evening begins with appetizers and wine at 6 p.m. with onstage interview at 7. The Chateau St. Michelle will be providing our featured wines for the evening, and all wines, appetizers and a copy of The Big Short are included in the $50 per/person ticket price.

Kim Ricketts/Book Events connects people by creating author events in non-traditional venues. When authors visit Seattle, we find innovative ways to celebrate their books. Keep an eye out for our COOKS AND BOOKS visiting chef series and THE GOOD LIFE: books for better living events taking place at great venues about town.

For more information about Kim Ricketts/Book Events, to inquire about a private event, or to sign-up for our email list, call (206) 632-2419 or contact us.

Christopher Hitchens

Recently, I was invited to appear on KUOW Presents on 94.9FM to showcase three films in which God is murdered or, at the very least, severely annoyed. (It’s just a flesh wound?) You can listen to my conversation with Jeannie Yandel for my take on CREATION, RELIGULOUS and THE INVENTION OF LYING. The first film is a noble failure in theaters now, the second is Bill Maher’s “agnostic” ad hoc-umentary and the last is a brilliant satire co-written and co-directed by Ricky Gervais and Matthew Robinson.

What all of these movies have in common is an unsettling dogmatism as final and unflinching as any fundamentalist’s beliefs. Don’t misunderstand, I am  a cultural Jew who attends Quaker meetings, who shuns God in any anthropomorphized form yet who embraces the obvious existence of the imponderable. Not all great questions can be answered by mortals. Not all design is intelligent. (Witness the butterfly… ballot.) Science is no more my religion than Scientology is; for at some point neither adequately allows for the notion that, in our lifetimes, we just can’t know, we can only surmise. To say otherwise, is delusional or disingenuous. Right? Too few share Abraham Lincoln’s sage and simple moral construct:  When I do good, I feel good, and when I do bad, I feel bad, and that’s my religion.

In CREATION, Charles Darwin — as portrayed by Paul Bettany — frets when his colleague applauds the pending publication of On The Origin of Species, saying: “Congratulations, sir. You’ve killed God.” But the author of evolution needn’t have feared: killing God only makes him stronger… in the eyes of His beholden. You can’t end Terrorism by uprooting a single, maniacal cave-dweller nor can you extinguish Religion by dousing a burning bush with alternative explanations. Terrorism and Religion both thrive on root causes that, few pundits and non-believers, will address: Humankind’s need for comfort and conformity in the perpetual grip of Uncertainty and Fear.

So, Atheists, you may kill the supreme being repeatedly, but you’re missing your marks. The devout are as determined as the makers of Doritos and will likewise persevere: Crunch all (the gods) you want, they’ll just make more.

Irish Reels Film Festival 2010 ~ March 12-14^th ~ Seattle

Screening venues: Henry Art Gallery, Seattle Art Museum & Seattle Center House

Co-Presented with the Irish Heritage Club

The Irish Reels Film Festival, a forum for award-winning features, shorts, and documentaries by independent Irish filmmakers, is proud to present three days of film screenings in Seattle, March 12- 14, 2010.

Now in its 12th year, the festival kicks off on Friday night, March 12th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Henry Art Gallery with a special screening of Saving Our Heritage: The Irish Georgian Society, a film which presents the work of The Irish Georgian Society in preserving Ireland’s rich architectural heritage. The program includes a lecture & slideshow by the Hon. Desmond Guinness, acclaimed author and authority on Georgian art and architecture, and President of the Irish Georgian Society.

Mr. Guinness is the great, great, great, great grandson of Arthur Guinness who founded Guinness Brewery over 250 years ago. He will be honored as the Grand Marshal of Seattle’s 2010 St. Patrick’s Day Parade, presented by the Irish Heritage Club. www.irishweek.org

The film festival moves location to the Seattle Art Museum on Saturday & Sunday evenings.

Saturday ~ March 13^th

At 6:30pm, Alan Gilsenan’s new feature documentary THE YELLOW BITTERN provides a revealing and surprising portrait of the last surviving member of The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem.  This intimate, confessional and highly cinematic film charts the remarkable rise to fame of these devil-may-care Irish singers, from their small-town beginnings in County Tipperary in Ireland to the folk hey-day of Greenwich Village in the Sixties where they absorbed black musical influences, played for JFK and out-sold the Beatles. The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem would go on to influence a host of popular artists from Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger to The Pogues, and become a powerful iconic presence on the Irish cultural map.

The 9:00pm feature presentation is THE ECLIPSE, Conor McPherson’s latest feature film which explores the challenges of love, fear of the unknown and release from the burden of grief. Written and directed by Mr. McPherson, the film stars Ciarán Hinds, Aidan Quinn and Iben Hjejle.

Both films have been nominated for awards at the 2010 Irish Film & Television awards. Winners will be announced on Feb 20^th. http://www.ifta.ie/

The short animated film Granny O’Grimm’s Sleeping Beauty will precede the feature presentation. The film, directed by Nicky Phelan and produced by Darragh O’Connell, has been nominated for an Oscar® in the Best Animated Short Film category.

Sunday ~ March 14^th

At 6:30pm, Lance Daly’s narrative film is the award winning feature, KISSES. The film takes us on a journey into the streets of inner city Dublin with two ten-year-old kids. Lance Daly’s vision of Dublin, as seen through the innocent eyes of the protagonists, is a kaleidoscope of magic, wonder and mystery. But as the night wears on, and Dublin takes on a darker character, the two kids have to rely on the kindness of strangers, the advice of Bob Dylan and their trust in each other to survive the night.

Introducing newcomers Kelly O’Neill and Shane Curry with a supporting role played by renowned Irish actor, Stephen Rea.

The closing night feature presentation at 9.00pm is WAVERIDERS, written and directed by Joel Conroy. Waveriders is a feature documentary tells the previously untold story of the unlikely Irish roots of the worldwide surfing phenomenon and today’s pioneers of Irish big wave surfing and the nascent world class surfing destinations available off the North West coast of Ireland. Waveriders won the prestigious Best Documentary Award at the 2009 Surfer Poll & Video awards. The awards, often coined the “Academy Awards of Surfing”, honors the pinnacle of surf culture.

Free screenings @ Seattle Center during Irish Week Celebrations.

The Irish Reels Film Festival is a featured part of the Irish week celebrations at the Seattle Center and all screenings at the Seattle Center are FREE. Starting after the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, at 12:00 noon the film festival presents two afternoons of engaging and provocative films on Saturday and Sunday, including:

The Liberties, a series of twelve beautifully crafted short films, each focusing on a different character in Dublin’s inner-city.

Dublin 26.06.08 an eclectic, multi-authored impression of Dublin (within the M50) as it lived, died, breathed, made love, filled up and emptied, consumed, wept, was rained or shone on, grew bright and then darkened again.

Butte, America, a documentary which recounts the sometimes glorious, often sorrowful, but always fascinating story of the most lucrative hard rock mining town in United States.

The Bass Player, which chronicles Irish writer and filmmaker Niall McKay’s journey with his father, Jim, a Jazz bass player, on his return home from Zurich to Dublin following the death of Jim’s second wife Anna in a story about one retired immigrants search for love, adventure and a place to call home.

Frederick Douglass and the White Negro, a documentary by John J. Doherty which examines the effect Ireland had on Frederick Douglass’ activism & the role of the Irish in America after Douglass’ return. The film sheds light on the turbulent relationship between African Americans and Irish Americans, and the race riot that rocked NYC during the Civil War.

Waiting for The Light, directed by Ciarín Scott, a compelling biography of George Morrison, the towering pioneer and innovator of Irish cinema. Of his 42 films, Mise Éire and Saorise are internationally acclaimed and seminal masterpieces, defining Ireland’s modern history.

Dambé – The Mali Project, a musical journey to the heart of Africa with acclaimed Irish musicians Liam O’Maonlaí (The Hothouse Flowers) and Paddy Keenan (The Bothy Band) as they travel thousands of miles to the remote music festival – Festival au Desert.

For more information including complete film descriptions, photos, video trailers and advance ticket sales visit the Irish Reels Film Festival website at www.irishreels.org.

The Irish Reels Film Festival showcases contemporary Irish films with a focus is on independently produced work and those that have yet to receive international distribution. The aim is to inspire audiences with thought provoking and powerful stories, stories that are universal yet told from an Irish viewpoint by talented Irish filmmakers.

The Irish Heritage Club is a non-profit, non-political, non-religious organization that promotes Irish cultural activities in the greater Seattle and Puget Sound areas, especially activities that promote the Irish language, Irish music, Irish dancing, Irish history, Gaelic games, and cultural exchanges between the Puget Sound area and Ireland.

Greetings, followers of The Warren Report!
We here at FiveLabs had a blast developing the new-and-improved TheWarrenReport.com — and we thank Warren for offering to provide a little PR for us. If you are in need of some help on the technology front, please visit our site, and give us a call!

Here is a brief Q&A on *FiveLabs* <http://www.fivelabs.com>:

Q: What does FiveLabs do?
A: We build software — such as websites, workflow systems, or any other software that involves the management, transaction, or calculation of data and images. We plan and implement software projects, and technical architecture. We find and resolve major system issues. We also evaluate and assist with projects in mid-stream, especially if they seem to be falling behind or off-track. Our IT solutions solve business problems.

Q: So, if somebody needs something coded, he/she can contact you?
A: Well, yes. But keep in mind, our background and our value involves more than that — we represent many years of leadership, both in the form of technology AND planning: risk mitigation, issue resolution, and execution of technology projects. These skills allow us to save our clients time and money, making the most of what they invest in technology. Some people call it consulting; it’s really just a lot of experience mixed with the passion to get it right and be swift, thorough, and precise while we work. Our results represent our firm’s commitment. So, yes, we can code. More often we can do way more than just that.

Q: How large is the FiveLabs team?
A: We can do projects that require from 2 to 20 resources. We often work as part of a larger project, with resources from our clients, and even other vendors. We’ve worked with off-shore teams as well. Small firms use us to ensure their technology platforms and architecture is sound, as they start up, and as they grow. Large firms tend to use our services in a more targeted manner: to evaluate specific systems, or help with specific projects– in that case, we work with in-house IT staff.

Q: So, what would be some examples of your work in the past?
A: Well, glad you asked. Examples are at the bottom, in case that’s of interest.

Q: What is the first step if we think we might see an opportunity for you?
A: Contact us! We might be tenacious about following up on a lead, but we promise that we’re very easy to talk with. Initial discussions are no-charge, and we are up front if the fit is not right for our firm — we’ll do our best to find the right one for you.

Beth Lyons and Matt Francis, Partners
FiveLabs, Inc. <http://www.fivelabs.com>
1817 Queen Anne Ave N
Suite 303
Seattle, WA 98109
206.319.0230 x24

Examples of our work:

-Well, of course, there is TheWarrenReport.com<http://www.TheWarrenReport.com>.
We worked with Warren over a series of fun and pain-free meetings, where we listened to what he needed, reviewed options for the look of the site, asked for his frequent feedback, developed what he needed, and refined the site until it was ready for him to use. Our goal is for Warren to have a MUCH better time with his site in 2010, and to help him be more successful in the areas of event management, video blog presentation, and increased site traffic.

-FiveLabs assisted a well-known online retail site over a period of 18 months– beginning with a total re-platform of their site, since their old system was not able to scale with their impressive growth. This was followed by designing and building a long list of enhancements supporting
international expansion, improved (faster) performance, and better user experience. Our series of projects, all done in collaboration with the in-house client team, culminated in a full-site re-design that launched this past summer. It was featured in *The Wall Street Journal*.

-A large firm that designs and produces educational materials (K-12 and post-secondary) acquired a smaller firm in order to expand its overall offering, in terms of web presence and user-designed products. They planned to re-write all the newly acquired systems, in order to be able to process
orders uniformly, but the project faced major difficulty as time-to-market and cost projections skyrocketed. FiveLabs was asked to do a 2-day evaluation of the (woefully behind schedule) project. Our recommendation allowed the existing systems to remain intact, with a small, elegant custom
layer of software, directing and translating data for all technology involved. Cost and time estimates were revised and contained, and the full system was available for the next sales cycle.

-A major human resources consulting firm enlisted FiveLabs to review and evaluate an existing set of applications supporting their customer-facing Benefits offering. Some of the software was web-based, but designed and built in the early 90’s, and some was even older than that, and not
accessible via the internet. FiveLabs re-designed the offering to provide all features via an updated and re-platformed web interface, complete with high-end graphics and extensive customized reporting for the firm’s in-house consultants and clients.

Many thanks to the dynamic Danielle W!

**Remember: Please print out your ticket from The Warren Report for admission!**

Director: Steve Pink

Screenplay by: Josh Heald and Sean Anders & John Morris

Story by: Josh Heald

Cast: John Cusack, Rob Corddry, Craig Robinson, Clark Duke, Crispin Glover, Lizzy Caplan and Chevy Chase

HOT TUB TIME MACHINE follows a group of best friends who’ve become bored with their adult lives: Adam (John Cusack) has been dumped by his girlfriend; Lou (Rob Corddry) is a party guy who can’t find the party; Nick’s (Craig Robinson) wife controls his every move; and video game-obsessed Jacob (Clark Duke) won’t leave his basement.  After a crazy night of drinking in a ski resort hot tub, the men wake up, heads pounding, in the year 1986.  This is their chance to kick some past and change their futures – one will find a new love life, one will learn to stand up for himself with the ladies, one will find his mojo, and one will make sure he still exists!

For more of my thoughts on David, click here and here.

DARBY may not fully intoxicate, but certainly can take the edge off any family movie night. O, Disney, won’t you please return to this sort of fare rather than the hyperkinetic inanity of G-FORCE? And now, The Ava Report, as dictated by my six-year-old-daughter…

This movie was a good movie but in two parts it was a bit scary. (There was a ghost that showed up two times and a carriage that took people when they died.) In one part, Darby went to where the leprechauns live and he was trying to get a horse. The horse got startled and then Darby fell into a hole where the leprechauns lived and two of them took him to their King. Here’s another thing, leprechauns like three things: drinking, dancing and hunting.It was funny when Darby put a glass of whisky in the sack with the king of the leprechauns and the king (Brian) drank it and threw the glass back out. In another part, the King Leprechaun got drunk and Darby pretended to get drunk but he was not. It was an interesting movie. Even though I’m 6 and a half, I think the movie is good for kids 8 and older.

So, what’s the verdict, critics and geeks? Is George Lucas a god amongst mortal movie-makers or a hack who happened tapped into the zit-geist?

Question what you see. Consider what you don’t. Draw your own conclusions.

Admittedly, since the death of Jerry Goldsmith — a loss far more traumatizing than the death of my own father — I have sought new, young composers to fill the void. Bear McCreary is one of the best, brightest hopes; he’s innovative, resourceful and committed. Single-handedly, he’s championed full-orchestra scoring for television shows such as Battlestar Galactica, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles and, most recently and impressively, HUMAN TARGET for Fox.

2009 marked the breakout of another tremendous talent, Abel Korzeniowksi. His work on A SINGLE MAN contributed greatly to the movie’s warm critical reception. And, his score for BATTLE FOR TERRA, demonstrated a Romanticist’s flair for re-imagining space opera, respectful of the genre’s conventions while expanding its boundaries. Take a listen to Track 02 and delight in one the year’s most under-appreciated soundtracks. Then, nominate your own favorite film composers on the rise. Forget the ayes, in this case, the ears have it.

Biznik Innovators Series with Warren Etheredge from Lara Eve Feltin on Vimeo.

Well, chances are, even if you pay close attention you won’t hear Alec Baldwin’s speech tomorrow night at Seattle Repertory Theater’s re-staging of GLENGARRY GLENROSS. (Baldwin’s profanity-laced tirade wasn’t in the original Broadway play, it was added for the movie.) However, you will hear me talk about David Mamet’s sardonic spin on Arthur Miller and its polished film adaptation during an exclusive, post-show discussion on Thursday, February 25th, 2010.

Seattle Rep’s production features some of Seattle’s finest actors — John Aylward, R. Hamilton Wright, Charles Leggett and Ian Bell — recreating roles assayed, respectively, by Jack Lemmon, Al Pacino, Alan Arkin and Jonathan Pryce in James Foley’s big-screen version. Come join me afterwards to evaluate their efforts and the enduring value of Mamet’s workplace wind-down.

For a cheerier spin on Baldwin’s monologue, watch his elfin’ spoof from Saturday Night Live.

Words & Wine: Intimate Evenings with Interesting People continues, as we welcome New Yorker writer David Grann for a conversation about his NYT bestselling book The Lost City of Z and his new book The Devil and Sherlock Holmes: Tales of Murder, Madness and Obsession.

Grann has a fascination with eccentric true life characters and the talent to tell their stories in gripping, powerful detail, his pieces pivot around the pull of obsession and the kind of people that fall into its grasp.Whether it be the story of Percy Fawcett, a 19th century explorer who vanished in the Amazon or a Sherlock Holmes scholar who descends into violence and madness, Grann’s unforgettable profiles display the power and perversity of the human spirit.

	David Grann

“Outstanding, a powerful narrative, stiff lipped and Victorian at the center, trippy at the edges, as if one of those stern men of Conrad had found himself trapped in a novel by Garcia Marquez. A kind of magical nonfiction, terrifically entertaining.” —Michiko Kakutani, The New York Times

For all those who love the Shackleton story, the tales of the Everest climbers or the obsessive scientist in The Orchid Thief, don’t miss meeting and having a glass of wine with this new and engaging writer.

David Grann is a staff writer at The New Yorker and his stories have appeared in many of the best American writing anthologies, as well as the Atlantic, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal and the New Republic.

As always, the beautiful Pan Pacific Hotel will host our event, and the evening begins with appetizers and wine at 6 PM with onstage interview at 7. Snoqualmie Winery, a leader in sustainable and organically made wines will be providing our featured wines for the evening, and all wines, appetizers and a copy of The Devil and Sherlock Holmes are included in the $50 per/person ticket price.

Kim Ricketts/Book Events connects people by creating author events in non-traditional venues. When authors visit Seattle, we find innovative ways to celebrate their books. Keep an eye out for our COOKS AND BOOKS visiting chef series and THE GOOD LIFE: books for better living events taking place at great venues about town.

For more information about Kim Ricketts/Book Events, to inquire about a private event, or to sign-up for our email list, call (206) 632-2419 or contact us.

“This was totally different from anything I have ever done; I’d prefer it if all author events were like this. Warren Etheredge is a good interviewer; a couple of glasses of wine help… This was really the best thing I have ever done as an author.”
— Ethan Canin, author of America, America

“I wanted to tell you how enjoyable the last Words & Wine was (Andre Dubus III) for my money, the best I’ve attended. Beautiful evening, beautiful venue, and he was clearly so thrilled to be in the presence of such an appreciative and enthralled audience. And Warren was really ‘on!’ It’s not always easy to be there after a long day of work, but I wouldn’t have missed this for anything. It is a reminder to me of the tremendous benefit this series (and all your efforts) are to this city.”
— Robert Sutherland, attendee

Check out Book Events videos!

A copy of the book, signed for you by the author after the interview, is included in the $50 ticket cost, in addition to all wines and appetizers.

Many thanks to the wonderful Wendy G!

** Filmmaker Alanis Obomsawin will be present for a post-show Q&A **

Yvonne M’Sadoques rocks forward in her chair. She’s lived in the Abenaki community of Odanak for over a century – and has no shortage of stories to tell.

“The priest would march into our home and order us to stop dancing. We were going to the devil, he said.” She pauses, a humorous glint in her eye. “But you know – I don’t really believe in the devil. Do you?”

M’Sadoques is in conversation with Alanis Obomsawin, another of Odanak’s proud daughters – and one of Canada’s leading documentary filmmakers.

Obomsawin’s illustrious career comes full circle with Waban-Aki: People from Where the Sun Rises. Having dedicated nearly four decades to chronicling the lives of Canada’s First Nations, she returns to the village where she was raised to craft a lyric account of her own people.

Best Documentary Award, 2006, Imagine Native Media Arts Festival, Toronto

Alanis Obomsawin, a member of the Abenaki Nation, is one of Canada’s most distinguished documentary filmmakers. Her work embraces strong social themes and is inspired by the desire to let the voices of her people be heard. She has made over 20 uncompromising documentaries on issues concerning Aboriginal people in Canada.

Breathing Media presents the private screening of TEETHING, a six-minute cinematic poem about being caught between childhood and adulthood. Through physical movement, lyrical narration, and a lushly orchestrated score, TEETHING ignites your imagination and reminds you that though we may get older, we never grow up. View the Facebook Event at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=343439034761.

Teething trailer from Breathing Media on Vimeo.

Too often, we speed thru our decision-making much the way amateur shutterbugs do their photography. We miss opportunities because we do not take an extra half-second to focus on their worth. Today, I offer you my version of the half-press by sharing press for THE POWER OF HALF. On Tuesday, March 9th, I’ll host the book’s authors, the father-daughter team of Kevin and Hannah Salwen at The Good Life, the fabulous event series organized by Kim Ricketts Book Events. I trust that once you read the reviews, you’ll want to join me at The Palace Ballroom for this perfectly composed study in charity.

Purchase tickets here after you meet the press below.

NATIONAL

Parade Magazine, original article by Kevin and Hannah, January 17

New York Times, interview by Nicholas Kristof, Sunday, Jan 24

CBS Sunday Morning, segment, to air Feb 7

ABC’s World News with Diane Sawyer, interview, to air Feb 8

The View, ABC-TV, Feb. 9, LIVE

NPR, “The World,” Interview with Kevin and Hannah, to air Feb. 10

American Public Media’s “Marketplace Money”, interview, to air Feb 12

O, The Oprah Magazine, profile of Kevin and Hannah, April issue

Christian Science Monitor, review, run date TK

People Magazine, interview, to run March 1

The New Yorker, “Talk of the Town” interview, run date to come

INTERNATIONAL

The Globe and Mail (Canada), interview, run date TK

CBC Connections (Canadian prime time), air date TK

BBC Radio/The World Today, interview, to air the week of Feb 8

Radio New Zealand/Afternoons, interview with Kevin, air date TK

ONLINE

Grist.org, feature, January 26

AOL Housing Watch, interview, Jan 28

Grist.org, feature and interview with Hannah, February 10

USA TODAY’s Green House blog, February 11

MotherNatureNetwork.com, feature, February 11

Guideposts.com, interview, date TK

DarynKagan.com, interview, date TK

IN GEORGIA…

Creative Loafing’s Culture Surfing blog, “Atlanta’s Most Anticipated Books of 2010″ pick, January 11

Atlanta Journal-Constitution, feature, Feb 7

Profile on 11 Alive Morning News on WXIA-TV–the local NBC affiliate. Air date TK.

Voice of America, radio interview with Philip Graitcer, air date TK

*A shortened version of this interview is airing on WABE Feb 3

IN NEW YORK…

WOR, The Joan Hamburg Show, live interview on Feb 10, 2010

Newsday, review tk

IN NEW ENGLAND…

Concord Monitor, interview, Feb 11

WKXL-AM recording Gibson’s Books event for re-broadcast, air date TK

Improper Bostonian, extended event listing, early Feb issue

Boston Phoenix, extended event listing, Feb 12

Boston Globe, feature, Feb 13

IN CHICAGO…

Chicago Public Radio / Worldview with Jerome McDonnell, interview, Feb16

Chicago Tribune, extended event listing, run date TK

ON THE WEST COAST…

LA Times, review, January 24

*syndicated to several West Coast newspapers

KPCC / Patt Morrison, interview, air date TK

MISCELLANEOUS

Arizona Daily Wildcat, review, Jan 26

The Olympian (WA), review (from LA Times), Jan 27

The State (SC), review (from LA Times), Jan 27

The Modesto Bee, review (from LA Times), Jan 27

Victoria Advocate, review (from LA Times), Jan 27

Santa Rosa Press Democrat (CA), Kristof op-ed piece, Jan 27

Many thanks to the STIFF-ies!

Watch the BREAKING UPWARDS trailer!

BREAKING UPWARDS explores a young, real-life New York couple who, fours years in and battling codependency, decide to intricately strategize their own break up. Based on an actual experiment devised by director/actor Daryl Wein and actress Zoe Lister-Jones, the film loosely interprets a year in their lives exploring alternatives to monogamy, and the madness that ensues. An uncensored look at young love, lust, and the pangs of codependency, BREAKING UPWARDS follows its characters as they navigate each others’ emotions across the city they love. It begs the question: is it ever possible to grow apart together?

THE GOOD SOLDIER is documentary film that follows the journeys of five American combat veterans from different generations as they sign up for war, go into battle, and eventually change their minds about what it means to be a good soldier.

© Scott Squire, NonFiction Media

“…I found [our] conversations about 4 times more fun and thought-provoking than any other moderated talks in which I’ve participated.”—David Benioff (screenwriter, 25TH HOUR; THE KITE RUNNER; WOLVERINE)

I am always flattered by the (unsolicited!) feedback I receive from the folks I interview. I am thrilled they appreciate the spirit with which I approach interviews. (Owen Schmitt of The Seattle Seahawks refers to my style as “chill”… and who am I to argue with the 6′2″, 247 pound fullback?)

Now you can learn how I prepare for interviews and how I respond to the different challenges presented by questioning folks on tape, on camera or before an audience. And, I’ll share insights and a little bit of gossip from the 1,000+ interviews I’ve conducted with the likes of Amy Sedaris, Calvin Trillin, Naomi Watts, Robert Duvall, Mariel Hemingway, Salman Rushdie, Nora Ephron, Michael Pollan, Charlie Kaufman, Augusten Burrough, Andy Samberg, Vincent Bugliosi, Nicolas Cage and others.

You’ll learn why documentarian Peter Esmonde says: “I was more relaxed being interviewed by you than anyone before or since. It’s so clear that, aside from being attentive and intelligent, you know [your stuff] — and that makes the interview more of a conversation with a compadre.”

Tuition for this exclusive, 3-hour workshop is only $75. You may mail check or money order (made payable to Warren Etheredge) to: 1752 NW Market St #118, Seattle 98107. Or, pay using PayPal, sending money to warren@thewarrenreport.com Or visit EventBrite for more options: http://listenup.eventbrite.com/

Space is limited, so please reserve your seat today and indicate you’ll be attending here on Facebook. The venue will be in the Ballard or Green Lake neighborhood.

About me…

As founder of The Warren Report (www.thewarrenreport.com), Warren Etheredge curates and hosts over 250 events every year, a podcast and television series. The Warren Report promotes “slow culture” through commentary, outreach, events and education. Our principle: Smarter audiences make a better world! Additionally, Warren is one of the founding faculty of TheFilmSchool, along with Tom Skerritt, Stewart Stern, Rick Stevenson and John Jacobsen. For six years, Warren served as the Curator for the 1 Reel Film Festival (at Bumbershoot), before that, he worked with the Seattle International Film Festival. Warren has staged over 40 plays in New York, published five books, written countless magazine articles and recently completed a feature-length documentary, HUMOR ME. He is in pre-production for a new documentary, TAPPED OUT: SOLVING AMERICA’S WATER CRISIS. He is the host of Words & Wine and The Good Life, conversation series with A-list authors, and is a regular contributor to Seattle’s NPR affiliate, KUOW. He speaks at festivals and conferences nationwide including The Screenwriting Expo, The Austin Film Festival and Conference, Bastyr University’s Founders Weekend and Gnomedex.

“…I found [our] conversations about 4 times more fun and thought-provoking than any other moderated talks in which I’ve participated.”—

(screenwriter, 25TH HOUR; THE KITE RUNNER; WOLVERINE)

I am always flattered by the (unsolicited!) feedback I receive from the folks I interview. I am thrilled they appreciate the spirit with which I approach interviews. (Owen Schmitt of The Seattle Seahawks refers to my style as “chill”… and who am I to argue with the 6′2″, 247 pound fullback?)

Now you can learn how I prepare for interviews and how I respond to the different challenges presented by questioning folks on tape, on camera or before an audience. And, I’ll share insights and a little bit of gossip from the 1,000+ interviews I’ve conducted with the likes of Amy Sedaris, Calvin Trillin, Naomi Watts, Robert Duvall, Mariel Hemingway, Salman Rushdie, Nora Ephron, Michael Pollan, Charlie Kaufman, Augusten Burrough, Andy Samberg, Vincent Bugliosi, Nicolas Cage and others.

You’ll learn why documentarian Peter Esmonde says: “I was more relaxed being interviewed by you than anyone before or since. It’s so clear that, aside from being attentive and intelligent, you know [your stuff] — and that makes the interview more of a conversation with a compadre.”

Tuition for this exclusive, 3-hour workshop is only $75. You may mail check or money order (made payable to Warren Etheredge) to: 1752 NW Market St #118, Seattle 98107. Or, pay using PayPal, sending money to warren@thewarrenreport.com Or visit EventBrite for more options: http://listenup.eventbrite.com/

Space is limited, so please reserve your seat today and indicate you’ll be attending here on Facebook. The venue will be in the Ballard or Green Lake neighborhood.

About me…

As founder of The Warren Report (www.thewarrenreport.com), Warren Etheredge curates and hosts over 250 events every year, a podcast and television series. The Warren Report promotes “slow culture” through commentary, outreach, events and education. Our principle: Smarter audiences make a better world! Additionally, Warren is one of the founding faculty of TheFilmSchool, along with Tom Skerritt, Stewart Stern, Rick Stevenson and John Jacobsen. For six years, Warren served as the Curator for the 1 Reel Film Festival (at Bumbershoot), before that, he worked with the Seattle International Film Festival. Warren has staged over 40 plays in New York, published five books, written countless magazine articles and recently completed a feature-length documentary, HUMOR ME. He is in pre-production for a new documentary, TAPPED OUT: SOLVING AMERICA’S WATER CRISIS. He is the host of Words & Wine and The Good Life, conversation series with A-list authors, and is a regular contributor to Seattle’s NPR affiliate, KUOW. He speaks at festivals and conferences nationwide including The Screenwriting Expo, The Austin Film Festival and Conference, Bastyr University’s Founders Weekend and Gnomedex.

Jeannie Yandel invited me to discuss my take on traditional coupledom by offering three movies that dare swim up the mainstream to examine love affairs that defy traditional coupledom. Listen here for my spin on these Loves for which there are no Hallmark cards. (The piece aired originally on KUOW Presents, Friday, February 12th, 2010.)

Once you have listened in, please share your Valentine’s views on sweet-spirited kink, full-blown fetish and hard-core romance. Trust that I’ll love you for your candor. And, feel free to nominate your own favorite, offbeat on-screen love stories.

Happy Valentine’s Day,

Warren

Order the three movies I highlight on KUOW Presents below. They’d make great gifts for your loved ones!

LARS & THE REAL GIRL

CRASH

SLEEPING DOGS LIE

Did Dean have the right to reference the big-screen Christ-killer’s run-in with the LAPD or should he have  just stuck to the publicists’ script and pumped EDGE OF DARKNESS into the morning (show) light? Should Mel have acknowledged his misdeeds or was he right to demean Dean for alluding to this age-old altercation? Does a lame question warrant on-air profanity? Watch the video, then…

Question what you see. Consider what you don’t. Draw your own conclusions… And win valuable prizes! More after this word from our sponsor…

The New Year is well underway and we are excited to bring these upcoming book events to you. Included below are details about our brand-new series with Skamania Lodge as well as the next two events in our popular Good Life: books for better living Series.

Put these on your calendar now:

“Imagination is like fire. No — strike that. Imagination is fire now comes the question: to what ends shall you use that fire?” – excerpt from Imagination First

Join author Eric Liu on February 17 at the Hotel Andra as he discusses why innovation and imagination are the key to limitless possibilities. His new book,Imagination First, shows us how, with 28 (and a half) universal practices for opening minds at work, home and play. All of them are designed to enable anyone –from corporate executives to preschool teachers — to get unstuck, to reframe challenges and to help others do the same.

Eric Liu is an author, civic entrepreneur and founder of the True Patriots Network, has taught at the University of Washington, been an executive at Real Networks and penned the “Teachings” column for Slate from 2002-2005. Eric served as a White House speechwriter for President Bill Clinton and later as the President’s deputy domestic policy adviser, and is the author of two previous bestselling books: a memoir The Accidental Asian as well as Guiding Lights: The People Who Lead Us Toward Our Purpose in Life.

Come find out how you can bring imagination into your work and life!

This event takes place at the Hotel Andra at 6:30 p.m., with onstage interview at 7 p.m.

On March 9 in our Good Life seris we welcome Kevin and Hannah Salwen (father and daughter) who will be here to discuss their book The Power of Half: One Family’s Decision to Stop Taking and Start Giving Back. It all started when 14-year-old Hannah Salwen had a “eureka moment.” Seeing a homeless man in her neighborhood alongside a Mercedes, she said “You know, Dad, if that man had a less nice car, maybe that man there could have a meal.”

Until that day the Salwens had been caught up in the American Dream: providing a good life for their children, working hard, accumulating stuff. As a family they made the extraordinary decision to sell their Atlanta home, downsize to a house half the size and give half the profit to a worthy charity.

Learn about the many ways their family changed in the process!

All Good Life events are $35 and include appetizers, confections from Theo Chocolate, a signed copy of the featured book and an on-stage interview of the author by Warren Etheredge of The Warren Report.

Our Good Life series is sponsored by Children’s Trust of Washington, who make the lives of families in our state better every single day: http://www.childrenstrust.org/

We also thank these additional sponsors: The Warren Report, Seattle’s Child, Tom Douglas Restaurants, Lush Life Floral and Theo Chocolate — all folks who make our community a better place to live!

Announcing Skamania Lodge Bed & Book-fest!

At Book Events we are thrilled to announce our latest fun project with Skamania Lodge, an all-season mountain resort in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Bed and Book-fest is a new literary series that gives book lovers an opportunity to get away to a beautiful, historic lodge and spend time with some of your favorite NW authors. The series will feature five author hosted weekends in 2010, and launches with Kathleen Flinn, the bestselling author of The Sharper the Knife, the Less You Cry, on February 19 & 20.

Each Bed & Book-fest weekend will include an exclusive author’s reception with readings and book signings, as well as customized, author-hosted workshops and a copy of the author’s featured work. Guests who attend the first Bed & Book-fest with Kathleen Flinn will enjoy an exclusive cooking demonstration during which Flinn will share a favorite recipe from her book, followed by an author-hosted lunch of the same featured dish, prepared by Skamania Lodge’s award-winning culinary team.

For reservations and more info, click here.

The second event in the series takes place March 13-14 and will feature Jennifer Worick and her latest book, Backcountry Betty: Crafting With Style. Jennifer has written or co-authored more than 20 books, including the New York Times bestseller, The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook: Dating & Sex. Worick currently resides in Seattle and is the Seattle reporter for Allure.

We are always looking for fun and different ways to connect people who love books with the authors who write them — so check our website, join our mailing list and keep an eye out for soon-to-be-announced authors in our ongoing Words & Wine and Cooks & Books series!

We hope to see you at an event soon — and in the meantime: happy winter reading!

As ever,

www.kimricketts.com

Man in the Box 2013 Facebook Abuse – Watch more Funny Videos

Now, what’s your take? Is social media, blameless, akin to guns? That is: Facebook doesn’t kill people, people do?

Question what you see. Consider what you don’t. Draw your own conclusions.

.

Roman Polanski, at least, has avoided uttering equally barbaric soundbites since his confession to drugging and sodomizing a minor, though I imagine if he were in the States — and incarcerated — we’d hear more from the diminutive pederast-piggy. (“Her lips said ‘Non,’ but her quaalude-clouded eyes said ‘oui, oui, oui!’ all the way home.”) Nevertheless, his filmic prolificacy speaks volumes and I don’t like what I’m hearing/seeing: PIRATES. FRANTIC. BITTER MOON. THE NINTH GATE. (He gets a pass for THE PIANIST, although making a Holocaust film practically guarantees one will receive Hollywood’s, um, gold star, no?)

Now, you can get a glimpse of Polanski’s latest, THE GHOST WRITER, thanks to the good folks at iTunes (and others, I’m sure). This is the project that allowed the deviant movie-maker to bypass prison time in favor of house arrest and somehow escape extradition once again. I urge you to watch the trailer, then ask yourself if it’s worth it. Worth what? Worth the tens of millions spent upon a genre production in service of the creative ego of a convicted statutory rapist. What price Art? Better yet, what price Justice? Have we bartered one for the other?

Question what you see. Consider what you don’t. Draw your own conclusions.

© Joshua Trujillo/Seattle PI

Amongst the accomplishments I am proudest of, I count my role as one of five co-founders of TheFilmSchool. Certainly, it is one of the only instances I’ve experienced during which talk has led to action leading to actual achievement of the goals originally set. TheFilmSchool’s three-week intensive is the populist response to the Sundance Institute, a chance for aspiring screenwriters to question their calling, then hone their craft within the comforting confines of a mentor-based haven. (A new session begins in March. Click here to apply. And, later this month, graduates and the prepared ought consider Substance & Sale, TheFilmSchool’s weekend intensive for those ready to advance their careers.)

Moving Pictures Magazine recently published a short, yet insightful, article about TheFilmSchool, focusing on three of my colleagues, Tom Skerritt, Stewart Stern and John Jacobsen. I link to it here both for your edification and my self-esteem. Enjoy.

61_MPWinter09

62_MPWinter09

Monday, February 8, 2010 — 6:30 PM

Bastyr University is proud to host a series of conversations examining the intersections of science, spirituality and medicine. The events are presented by the Bastyr University Center for Spirituality, Science and Medicine and will be moderated by Warren Etheredge ofThe Warren Report.

Where: Bastyr University Chapel, 14500 Juanita Dr. N.E., Kenmore, WA 98028
When: Musical conversation begins at 6:30 p.m. Moderated conversation is 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Advance Tickets: $15/night, $40 for series
At the Door: $20
Students: $10/night, $25 for series
Dine in Bastyr’s award-winning, vegetarian cafeteria before the conversation.  Open until 6:30 before the event.

Spirit conversation:

When: Monday, February 8, 2010
With: Rabbi Ted Falcon, PhD, Terrill Gibson, PhD, and Leanna Standish, ND, PhD, LAc
Music: By Thomas Arthur
Register online for the series or individual lectures.

Monday, February 1, 2010 — 6:30PM

Bastyr University is proud to host a series of conversations examining the intersections of science, spirituality and medicine. The events are presented by the Bastyr University Center for Spirituality, Science and Medicine and will be moderated by Warren Etheredge ofThe Warren Report.

Where: Bastyr University Chapel, 14500 Juanita Dr. N.E., Kenmore, WA 98028

When: Musical conversation begins at 6:30 p.m. Moderated conversation is 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Advance Tickets: $15/night, $40 for series At the Door: $20 Students: $10/night, $25 for series Dine in Bastyr’s cafeteria before the conversation.  Open until 6:30 before the event.

Mind conversation:

When: Monday, February 1, 2010 With: Sheila Dunn-Merritt, ND, Brad Lichtenstein, ND, and Robert V. Taylor Music: By Stephen Merritt Register online for the series or individual lectures.

Saturday, February 6th, 2010    9am-5pm venue: tba (Seattle, WA)

http://www.eventbrite.com/event/526887936

Movies are a lot like football. Beneath the hype and circumstance, there is a lot of strategy, a lot of technique. And, like football, most Americans watch movies and discuss movies religiously without ever really knowing what they really are talking about. For those who wish to sound smarter and for those who hope to make movies, I offer this special Super Bowl session of LANGUAGE FOR MOVIES the day before the game. The class runs seven hours… which is just slightly shorter than television’s preposterous pre-game shenanigans.

If you want to visit France, it’s best to learn French. If you want to be a retail analyst, you’ve got to talk shop. And if you’re gonna talk smack with Dr. Doolittle, best brush up on your Marsupialese: the vet curses in fluent kangaroo. Can’t you? So why is it so many folks who love movies or want to make them, possess only the most rudimentary vocabulary for critiquing and constructing Film?

LANGUAGE FOR MOVIES, is a 1-day intensive during which we’ll examine the five major components of production — directing, shooting, acting, editing and composing — by reviewing clips to dissect the intricacies and artistry of each of these professions. After seven hours, you’ll fully understand the principles of film theory and the challenges of filmmaking. Most importantly, as the class title implies, you’ll have the vocabulary to best express your impressions of others’ efforts and your own grand visions.

Register now for this special session of LANGUAGE FOR MOVIES on February 6th, 2010. In honor of the Dallas Cowboys’ hoped for appearance in next year’s Super Bowl, I am offering a special discount. Yup, you can attend the entire seven-hour seminar for only $125 (a savings of twenty-five dollars!). Reserve your seat on-line via PayPal or send a check or money order — made payable to Warren Etheredge — to: 1752 NW Market St #118, Seattle, WA 98107. Better yet, go here:  http://www.eventbrite.com/event/526887936 Seating is limited, so act now. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at warren@thewarrenreport.com

About me…

As founder of The Warren Report (www.thewarrenreport.com), Warren Etheredge curates and hosts over 250 events every year, a podcast and television series. The Warren Report promotes “slow culture” through commentary, outreach, events and education. Our principle: Smarter audiences make a better world! Additionally, Warren is one of the founding faculty of TheFilmSchool, along with Tom Skerritt, Stewart Stern, Rick Stevenson and John Jacobsen. For six years, Warren served as the Curator for the 1 Reel Film Festival (at Bumbershoot), before that, he worked with the Seattle International Film Festival. Warren has staged over 40 plays in New York, published five books, written countless magazine articles and recently completed a feature-length documentary, HUMOR ME. He is the host of Words & Wine,The Good Life and the Biznik Innovators Series, conversation series with A-list authors, and is a regular contributor to Seattle’s NPR affiliate, KUOW. He speaks at festivals and conferences nationwide including The Screenwriting Expo, The Austin Film Festival and Conference and Gnomedex.

Movies are a lot like football. Beneath the hype and circumstance, there is a lot of strategy, a lot of technique. And, like football, most Americans watch movies and discuss movies religiously without ever really knowing what they really are talking about. For those who wish to sound smarter and for those who hope to make movies, I offer this special Super Bowl session of LANGUAGE FOR MOVIES the day before the game. The class runs seven hours… which is just slightly shorter than television’s preposterous pre-game shenanigans.

If you want to visit France, it’s best to learn French. If you want to be a retail analyst, you’ve got to talk shop. And if you’re gonna talk smack with Dr. Doolittle, best brush up on your Marsupialese: the vet curses in fluent kangaroo. Can’t you? So why is it so many folks who love movies or want to make them, possess only the most rudimentary vocabulary for critiquing and constructing Film?

LANGUAGE FOR MOVIES, is a 1-day intensive during which we’ll examine the five major components of production — directing, shooting, acting, editing and composing — by reviewing clips to dissect the intricacies and artistry of each of these professions. After seven hours, you’ll fully understand the principles of film theory and the challenges of filmmaking. Most importantly, as the class title implies, you’ll have the vocabulary to best express your impressions of others’ efforts and your own grand visions.

Register now for this special session of LANGUAGE FOR MOVIES on February 6th, 2010. In honor of the Dallas Cowboys’ hoped for appearance in next year’s Super Bowl, I am offering a special discount. Yup, you can attend the entire seven-hour seminar for only $125 (a savings of twenty-five dollars!). Reserve your seat on-line via PayPal or send a check or money order — made payable to Warren Etheredge — to: 1752 NW Market St #118, Seattle, WA 98107. Or, visit www.thewarrenreport.com for other options. Seating is limited, so act now. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at warren@thewarrenreport.com

About me…

As founder of The Warren Report (www.thewarrenreport.com), Warren Etheredge curates and hosts over 250 events every year, a podcast and television series. The Warren Report promotes “slow culture” through commentary, outreach, events and education. Our principle: Smarter audiences make a better world! Additionally, Warren is one of the founding faculty of TheFilmSchool, along with Tom Skerritt, Stewart Stern, Rick Stevenson and John Jacobsen. For six years, Warren served as the Curator for the 1 Reel Film Festival (at Bumbershoot), before that, he worked with the Seattle International Film Festival. Warren has staged over 40 plays in New York, published five books, written countless magazine articles and recently completed a feature-length documentary, HUMOR ME. He is the host of Words & Wine,The Good Life and the Biznik Innovators Series, conversation series with A-list authors, and is a regular contributor to Seattle’s NPR affiliate, KUOW. He speaks at festivals and conferences nationwide including The Screenwriting Expo, The Austin Film Festival and Conference and Gnomedex.

THE POODLE TRAINER screened at Sundance this week, the third of his shorts to be exhibited at the fest. The other two: LOSING LUSK and OCULARIST. Sadly, none of these are available on-line.* (For music lovers, all these films are scored, brilliantly, by Auditory Sculpture; these aural contributions a hallmark of Vance’s complete aesthetic control of the short form. Order Auditory Sculpture’s album, That Might Be You But This Is Me, here.)

I had the pleasure of……screening Vance’s first short doc, OCULARIST, at the 1 Reel Film Festival at Bumbershooot back in 2003. (I still consider it one of the five best short docs I’ve ever seen!) Subsequently, I commissioned — not fiscally, sorry, Vance! — another short inspired by my question: What In God’s Name? Renamed(?) WHAT IN THE NAME OF GOD, you can watch this film here. (A p.s.a. Vance shot, PERMISSION, can also be seen by clicking this sentence. It does more to challenge perceptions of a very divisive, public issue than a thousand progressive celebrity rants or right-wing bible thumpings.)

Please, let me know what you think. Then, drop Ken and Michael a line. Tell them to keep an eye out for the competition. Vance Malone has triumphed in the short form; I eagerly await his first feature.

*Truth be told, you can watch OCULARIST on Auditory Sculpture’s site, but it is far from the ideal forum to view such visually compelling work.

I like to think

Zinn’s populist tome, A People’s History of the United States, urged readers to re-examine the past from  multiple, under-represented perspectives beyond the average, American curriculum. Zinn was a champion of the masses and the media-oppressed. His death is a loss to all those who value freedom of the Press and a little something some call… the Truth.

In honor of Zinn’s passing, I challenge readers to submit their own exploration of a current event from an unheard, unseen perspective. Ideally, your own. The sharpest, or most satirical, entry will win a prize — Zinn’s best-selling book. (Winner determined by my whim, guided by my love of the pointed and the hilarious.)

Though as much as I appreciate good humor, I scream when the Texas Board of Education proposes revisions to textbooks (effectively, nationwide!) to address such kooky notions as Evolution. One ten-gallon board member, Don McElroy, calls the “theory,” a bunch of “hooey.” And while I could, possibly, live with a Creationists’ argument that both Darwinism and Intelligent Design ought be taught together, doesn’t it undermine the principle of fairness and balance when a key voter poo-poos scientific conclusions altogether, suggesting that Faith always trumps Evidence?

History is not a joke, nor is Science. Why then do we allow “administrators” to dictate content to “educators?” Why must intellectual rigor succumb to spiritually-biased opinion?

Of course, Zinn was more interested in the collusionary efforts of political parties and the dehumanizing impact of economic forces. Nevertheless, the lesson is the same: If the elected and fiscally-empowered can deprive the people of all the facts, they deny the people any hope. For without a complete education, Americans will become just a bunch of underachieving F-students. Prove the powers that be wrong. Demand more information. Accept nothing but the truth.

Question what you see. Consider what you don’t. Draw your own conclusions.

Then, submit your entries by February 15th, 2010.

Many thanks to fellow Cowboy fan, Clint B!

Emily Hagins is making a zombie movie. It’s feature-length, it’s bloody, and the zombies don’t run. Just like it should be. But there’s one difference between her film and every other zombie movie you’ve ever seen: Emily is twelve.

brought to you by

April 15
Anna Lappe
DIET FOR A HOT PLANET: The Climate Crisis at the End of your Fork and What You Can Do about it

Time: 6:30 pm
Cost: $35/person (includes all appetizers
and a copy of the featured book)

Location: Tom Douglas’ Palace Ballroom
2030 5th Avenue (at Lenora), Seattle, 98121

	Anna Lappe

Beyond what we already know about “food miles” and eating locally, the global food system is a major contributor to climate change, producing as much as one third of greenhouse gas emissions. How we farm, what we eat, and how our food gets to the table all have an impact.

Anna Lappe is the coauthor of Grub, Hope’s Edge and currently host of MSN’s Practical Guide to Healthy Living, and co host of PBS’s The Endless Feast. Lappe will outline a vision of the future in which our food system does more good than harm, with six principles for an earth-friendly diet, fueled by sustainable farming.

The Good Life: books for better living events are interactive evenings of conversation with authors on tools for creating “the good life.” These events will take place at either Tom Douglas’ Palace Ballroom or the Hotel Andra Ballroom, where we will gather together to enjoy appetizers and beverages and an onstage interview of the author by Warren Etheredge of The Warren Report.

Read what Danielle Greger-Babbit says at examiner.com

A copy of each author’s new book is included in the ticket price as are appetizers and bites of Theo Chocolate that evening. There will be a cash bar available.

March 9

It all started when 14-year-old Hannah Salwen had a “eureka moment.” Seeing a homeless man in her neighborhood alongside a Mercedes, she said “You know, Dad, if that man had a less nice car, maybe that manthere could have a meal.”

Until that day the Salwens had been caught up in the American Dream: providing a good life for their children, accumulating more stuff. As a family they made the extraordinary decision to sell their Atlanta mansion, downsize to a house half the size and give half the profit to a worthy charity.

Their plan eventually transported them across the globe and well out of their comfort zone, and in the end they learned that they had the power to change a little corner of their world.  And they found themselves changing, too.

Kevin Salwen was a reporter and editor at the Wall Street Journal for more than 18 years and a founder of the magazine Motto. He serves on the board of Habitat for Humanity.  Hannah Salwen is a junior at the Atlanta Girl’s School, where she plays for the varsity volleyball team. Hannah has volunteered since 5th grade at the Atlanta Community Food Bank and Café 458.

The Good Life: books for better living events are interactive evenings of conversation with authors on tools for creating “the good life.” These events will take place at either Tom Douglas’ Palace Ballroom or the Hotel Andra Ballroom, where we will gather together to enjoy appetizers and beverages and an onstage interview of the author by Warren Etheredge of The Warren Report.

Read what Danielle Greger-Babbit says at examiner.com

A copy of each author’s new book is included in the ticket price as are appetizers and bites of Theo Chocolate that evening. There will be a cash bar available.

February 17

The best companies know that innovative thinking is the only competitive advantage that can’t be outsourced, and the best schools are those with deep cultures of creative problem solving.  But both innovation and creativity depend on imagination first: the ability and willingness to conceive of what is not.  Fortunately, it is something we can all cultivate—with practice.

	Eric Liu

This books shows us how, with 28 (and a half) universal practices for opening minds at work, home and play. All of them are designed to enable anyone-from corporate executive to preschool teacher-to get unstuck, to reframe challenges and to help others do the same.

Eric Liu is the founder of the Guiding Lights Network, dedicated to mindful and imaginative mentorship.  His previous books include Guiding Lights: How to Mentor and Find Life’s Purpose, The Accidental Asian: Notes of a Native Speakerand the national bestseller The True Patriot. Liu is a former White House speechwriter and senior advisor to President Bill Clinton, and is now an educator ad entrepreneur living in Seattle.

The Good Life: books for better living events are interactive evenings of conversation with authors on tools for creating “the good life.” These events will take place at either Tom Douglas’ Palace Ballroom or the Hotel Andra Ballroom, where we will gather together to enjoy appetizers and beverages and an onstage interview of the author by Warren Etheredge of The Warren Report.

Read what Danielle Greger-Babbit says at examiner.com

A copy of each author’s new book is included in the ticket price as are appetizers and bites of Theo Chocolate that evening. There will be a cash bar available.

January 27
Gretchen Rubin
THE HAPPINESS PROJECT: Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle and Generally Have More Fun

Time: 6:30 pm
Cost: $35/person (includes all appetizers
and a copy of the featured book)

Location: Tom Douglas’ Palace Ballroom
2030 5th Avenue (at Lenora), Seattle, 98121

On a crowded bus Rubin had an epiphany: time was passing, and so little of it was spent doing things which made her feel happy.  She didn’t want to turn her life upside down: just focus on improving her life as it existed, and each month tackled a new set of resolutions:

	Gretchen Rubin

• Give proofs of love
• Ask for help
• Be serious about play
• Keep a one sentence journal
• Forget about results.

She devoured everything from classical philosophy to cutting edge scientific studies, and looked to everyone from Plutarch and Thoreau to Oprah and Martin Seligman. Her discoveries range from the practical to the surprising to the profound, and her “happiness project” was documented on a blog — followed by over 30,000 people and now carried on Slate, Real Simple, The Huffington Post and Psychology Today.

Rubin is the author of several books, a lawyer and a mom, still working on “the happiness thing.” But a lot happier.

The Good Life: books for better living events are interactive evenings of conversation with authors on tools for creating “the good life.” These events will take place at either Tom Douglas’ Palace Ballroom or the Hotel Andra Ballroom, where we will gather together to enjoy appetizers and beverages and an onstage interview of the author by Warren Etheredge of The Warren Report.

Read what Danielle Greger-Babbit says at examiner.com

A copy of each author’s new book is included in the ticket price as are appetizers and bites of Theo Chocolate that evening. There will be a cash bar available.

Substance & Sale Overview

This course takes you through an in-depth development process, asking the same questions that a good producer would: does the screenplay have the underpinnings of a compelling premise? Does your original vision shine through a masterful working of the three-act structure? Does your lead character’s personal journey drive the story forward? Are there key turning points, a powerful scheme for the antagonist, and a number of other specific narrative elements which will catch the reader’s eye? Over three intensive days, we’ll work and rework through these craft issues at a professional level. We’ll also listen to log lines from Participants to make sure there is a story there worth developing. The end result is to learn how to make your script’s key dramatic intentions come across as strongly as possible in the finished work, and at best, this process helps move your material to the next level at the right production company.

Marketing your work

In the evenings, we learn to take off our artistic writing hats and put on the hat of the business person that hides within. All of us possess the skills to market ourselves, we just need to be shown how.

Participate or observe

There are two levels you can choose from to attend this seminar: Participant or Observer. The number of participants is limited to the first 20 that apply, and they should mail a one page synopsis in with their application. They need to agree to be open to criticism as the seminar’s panel determines which aspects of the material should remain intact, be embellished, or significantly changed. Observers attend all seminars and actively participate in discussions, but their work is not examined.

Dates: February 26–28, 2010

Feb. 26 (6:30 PM -10 PM); Feb. 27 (10 AM – 6 PM); Feb. 28 (10 AM – 6 PM)

Location: Seattle Center, The Alki Room (future home of TheFilmSchool)

QUOTES from last year’s attendee evaluations:

“Warren and John are awesome teaching partners!”

“This is the perfect next step after TheFilmSchool (3-Week-Intensive).”

“Detailed examination of work, helpful next steps to sell my script.”

“Seattle needs more of this.”

One of the most dangerous pitfalls for writers is the belief that their scripts have been fully realized, when in reality they remain obscure or not dramatized to their fullest potential. Failure in this area is perhaps the main reason so many screenplays get passed on by industry story analysts or “readers.”

This course is designed to help you bridge that pitfall.

For more information on how to apply to this course, please see here.

FANTASTIC MR. FOX was great. I thought it was interesting and exciting but at some parts I was a bit nervous because if Mr. Fox and Kylie did not hurry up, the farmers would find them. I also thought how the movie-makers made all of the characters was very interesting because I had never seen [animation] like that. I liked Mrs. Fox. She was a bit like my mom because my mom is tough. All the voices were good. I really liked Kylie [Wally Wolodarsky]. At some parts, Kylie got scared and just stared and stared. It was so funny when Kylie did that. I didn’t think FANTASTIC MR. FOX was the best at first but now I can’t stop thinking about it.

Indeed, FANTASTIC MR. FOX gets even better upon reflection. The (detachable?) tale tickles and the handmade imagery rocks. (To learn about the making-of, check out this wonderful video.)

Andy Dick-less?

Stars, they’re just like us… We’re reminded pictorially in every issue of US Weekly. Kiefer Sutherland goes shopping. Miley Cyrus looks ashamed of her dad. Lara Flynn Boyle bleaches her sphincter. All of the snapshots of our parallel celebrity lives are supposed to make us feel closer, more comparable to our idols. It’s almost as if we, too, could get our money for nothing and our chicks for free.*

Yet if we are willing to see ourselves in the mundane activities of the glorified, mustn’t we also recognize our failures in the transgressions of the rich and infamous? Doesn’t the fault lie in our stars AND ourselves?

Where is the US Weekly photo spread depicting Gary Coleman (allegedly) abusing his wife?  Or Andy Dick (allegedly) disrobing a minor… or (allegedly) groping a bouncer? Or of Charlie Sheen(allegedly) choking his wife, Brooke Mueller? Or, Charlie (allegedly) brandishing a knife? Or, Charlie accidently (and admittedly!) discharging a firearm and wounding then-fiancee Kelly Preston?

Gary Coleman-child?

It is tempting to highlight these incidents as the fleeting foibles of a few bad actors, yet we must acknowledge that these, too, are reflections of our own worst traits. We are the rotten barrel. Domestic violence is neither an exception to the norm nor a TMZ triviality. Check out these disturbing statistics culled by the American Bar Association…

• Approximately 1.3 million women and 835,000 men are physically assaulted by an intimate partner annually in the United States.
  

  Patricia Tjaden & Nancy Thoennes, U.S. Dep’t of Just., NCJ 183781, Full Report of the Prevalence, Incidence, and Consequences of Intimate Partner Violence Against Women: Findings from the National Violence Against Women Survey, at iv(2000), available at http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/pubs-sum/183781.htm

• Intimate partner violence made up 20% of all nonfatal violent crime experienced by women in 2001.
  

  Callie Marie Rennison, U.S. Dep’t of Just., NCJ 197838, Bureau of Justice Statistics Crime Data Brief: Intimate Partner Violence, 1993-2001, at 1 (2003), available at http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/pub/pdf/ipv01.pdf

• In 2000, 1,247 women and 440 men were killed by an intimate partner. In recent years, an intimate partner killed approximately 33% of female murder victims and 4% of male murder victims.
  

  Callie Marie Rennison, U.S. Dep’t of Just., NCJ 197838, Bureau of Justice Statistics Crime Data Brief: Intimate Partner Violence, 1993-2001, at 1(2003), available at http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/pub/pdf/ipv01.pdf

Charlie (Lost His) Sheen

Granted, Carlos Irwin Estevez has done more harm than his share, but neither he nor the entirety of his hate-mongering Hollywood brethren can explain the horrifying prevalence of domestic violence in this country. This is not solely a showbiz phenomenon. Sadly, this is an American epidemic. And until we respond to it more seriously, spouses and partners are doomed to suffer both behind  closed doors and in the public eye.

Charlie Sheen returns to his sitcom and his well-documented ways. Andy Dick returns to the comedy club, bailed out by the owner, so that the show might go on. Gary Coleman returns to virtual obscurity, a Trivial Pursuit punchline. What is most alarming is that these alleged offenses are not the first for these two and a half men. Each has a string of arrests and allegations that ought eliminate the need for the “other side of the story” and validate the identification of the common denominator, the recidivist perpetrators themselves. Charlie Sheen should be incarcerated. Gary Coleman should be jailed. Andy Dick, at the very least, should see a therapist by court-order and serve the community by judge’s will, as well.

Tiger Woods cheated on his wife, lost many of his endorsement deals and has gone into hiding. Charlie Sheen has used his words, his fists, a gun and a knife in abusing a succession of mates and yet he’s still promoted on primetime tv? Maybe it’s time for us to boycott CBS or, at least, beg the network to re-title its hit show: One and A Half Men and One Chronically Abusive, Chauvinistic, Rage-aholic Ass.

* With apologies to Mark Knopfler and Lynn Schnumberger

It’s one thing to write poorly, that’s permissible in journals and personal correspondence. It’s another to have sub-par prose published in a major paper, indicating that both an editor and a bean-counter have somehow approved such amateur ramblings.

I deputize you, dear readers, to submit your own examples. For now, let me offer this shard of broken glass on which I pricked my eyes in this Sunday’s edition (1/10/10) of Parade Magazine. The article’s title: “Live Well With What You Have.” The perpetrator: Lynn Schnumberger. Under the subheading ‘Get What You Need,’ she begins…

“To paraphrase the Rolling Stones, you can’t always get everything you want.”

Wow. What a colorful and insightful phrasing to lure the reader, Lynn. So impressive, so illustrative, I decided to explore LexisNexis for more of Ms. Schnumberger’s lyrical lead-ins. Here’s what I found…

From “Spare Change – Where’d It Go?”:

Who amongst us hasn’t paraphrased Bono while turning over couch cushions in search of laundry money, “But I still have not found that for which it is I am looking.”

From “L.A. Riots Make Rodney King For A Day”:

The beaten but not broken Mr. King rallied the crowd, paraphrasing the old War tune, “Why cannot we develop meaningful friendships?”

From Cradle To Rave – Oh, How Kids Dance These Days:

They jumped. They jived. To paraphrase OutKast, they would “flip it, flap it, wave it around in the air hoping that regardless of the physics of chemical reactions it would develop faster like a Polaroid picture.”

Please, Ms. Schnumberger, return your check to the publisher or, better yet, donate your ‘earnings’ to the local literacy program of your choosing.

Time: 6:30 p.m.
Cost: $50 per person (includes all appetizers, wine, and a copy of the featured book)
Location: Pan Pacific Hotel,
2125 Terry Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121

TO PURCHASE TICKETS
by email: contact us
by phone: 206-632-2419

THE ELEMENT is the point at which natural talent meets personal passion: when people arrive at the element, they feel most themselves and inspired to achieve at their highest levels. What are the conditions that enable us to find ourselves in the element, and what are the conditions that stifle creativity?

Sir Ken Robinson

Sir Ken Robinson, in his new book THE ELEMENT, outlines the path to a more creative and fulfilling life, and profiles may people-famous and otherwise-who have connected their natural aptitude with their personal passion and succeeded, despite obstacles in their way.

Sir Ken Robinson speaks to more than 50,000 people each year in a variety of settings and has worked with governments in the US, Europe and Asia, Fortune 500 companies including Microsoft, Nestle, IBM, Apple and a wide range of non-profit organizations. Hisspeech at the 2006 TED Conference has been downloaded over 2 million times, and he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2003 for his outstanding achievement in education and the arts. In 2005 he was named one of Time/CNN’s “Principal Voices” and in 2008 was awarded the Peabody Medal for contributions to the arts and culture in the US. Robinson overcame childhood polio, and credits education for allowing him to be undefined by his disability.

More on Sir Robinson can be found here: www.sirkenrobinson.com
Join us for an inspirational conversation about creativity, passion–and how we can create a community that allows both to flourish.

Words & Wine events take place at the elegant Pan Pacific Hotel, where guests mingle with the author while sipping award-winning wines from Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and enjoying savory nibbles prepared by Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar. For the highlight of the evening, the engaging Warren Etheredge, of The Warren Report, leads an intimate and entertaining on-stage interview and conversation with the author.

A copy of the book, signed for you by the author after the interview, is included in the $50 ticket cost, in addition to all wines and appetizers.

Rated PG for sensuality and language. Cast: Amy Adams, Matthew Goode, Adam Scott and John Lithgow Directed by: Anand Tucker Written by: Harry Elfont & Deborah Kaplan Amy Adams and Matthew Goode star in LEAP YEAR, a romantic comedy that follows one woman’s determined quest to get married to the perfect guy…despite what fate has in store for her. When their four-year anniversary passes without a marriage proposal, Anna (Amy Adams) decides to take matters into her own hands. Investing in an Irish tradition that allows women to propose to men on February 29th, Anna decides to follow her boyfriend Jeremy (Adam Scott) to Dublin and get down on one knee herself. But airplanes, weather and fate leave Anna stranded on the other side of Ireland, and she must enlist the help of handsome and surly Declan (Matthew Goode) to get her across the country. As Anna and Declan bicker across the Emerald Isle, they discover that the road to love can take you to very unexpected places.

Event description

The Biznik Innovators Series connects members with some of the most premier innovative thought leaders published today in a swank downtown venue (with complimentary wine!) When the authors visit Seattle, we find innovative ways to celebrate their books, while providing you with a unique networking opportunity. The engaging Warren Etheredge, of The Warren Report, will lead an intimate and entertaining on-stage conversation with the author that takes the entire event up a notch. In addition…

• Before and after networking with the author and other guests in an intimate setting at the elegant Pan Pacific Hotel
• Sip complimentary award-winning wines from Erath Wineries (yep, FREE)
• Enjoy savory nibbles prepared by Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar on the house

AND in addition to the wine & appetizers, a copy of the book, signed for you by the author after the interview, is included in the ticket cost. * VIEW VIDEO (1:33) about the Innovators Series

---

Dan Pink, the celebrated best selling author ofFree Agent Nation and A Whole New Mind says forget everything you thought you knew about how to motivate people – at work, at school, at home. It’s wrong. As he explains in his new and paradigm-shattering book Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, the secret to high performance and satisfaction in today’s world is the deeply human need to direct our own lives, to learn and create new things, and to do better by ourselves and our world. Drawing on four decades of scientific research on human motivation, Pink exposes the mismatch between what science knows and what business does–and how that affects every aspect of our lives. He demonstrates that while the old-fashioned carrot-and-stick approach worked successfully in the 20th century, it’s precisely the wrong way to motivate people for today’s challenges. In Drive, he reveals the three elements of true motivation:

• Autonomy – the desire to direct our own lives
• Mastery – the urge to get better and better at something that matters
• Purpose – the yearning to do what we do in the service of something larger than ourselves

Drive is bursting with big ideas – the rare book that will change how you think and transform how you live. If you want to see what you’re in for, check out his last TED Talk on TED.com. You don’t want to miss this event!

What others say about Dan and Drive

“Pink has a knack for teaching in such an entertaining way that you’ll forget you are learning.” - Lexi Feinberg, Forbes.com “Important reading…an integral addition to a growing body of literature that argues for a radical shift in how businesses operate.” - Kirkus Book Reviews “Drive is the rare book that will get you to think and inspire you to act. Pink makes a strong, science-based case for rethinking motivation–and then provides the tools you need to transform your life.” - Dr. Mehmet Oz, co-author of YOU: The Owners Manual

About the Author

A free agent himself, Dan Pink, the former chief speechwriter for former vice-president Al Gore and a contributing editor for Wired magazine changed the way companies view the modern workplace with a trio of influential bestsellers: Free Agent Nation (2001), A Whole New Mind(2006), and The Adventures of Johnny Bunko (2008).

---

RSVP for the event is $50 per person, which includes all wines, appetizers and a copy of the featured book. Reservations are required, and can be made here on our website by joining or logging into Biznik. (Basic membership in Biznik is free.)

---

The Biznik Innovators events are made possible by a partnership between Biznik and:

Rated R for some drug content and sexuality.

www.itscomplicatedmovie.com

Cast: Meryl Streep, Steve Martin, Alec Baldwin

Written and Directed by: Nancy Meyers

Produced by: Nancy Meyers, Scott Rudin

Executive Producers: Ilona Herzberg, Suzanne Farwell

Writer/director Nancy Meyers (WHAT WOMEN WANT; SOMETHING’S GOTTA GIVE; THE HOLIDAY) directs Meryl Streep, Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin in IT’S COMPLICATED, a comedy about love, divorce and everything in between. Jane (Streep) is the mother of three grown kids, owns a thriving Santa Barbara bakery/restaurant and has-after a decade of divorce-an amicable relationship with her ex-husband, attorney Jake (Baldwin). But when Jane and Jake find themselves out of town for their son’s college graduation, things start to get complicated. An innocent meal together turns into the unimaginable-an affair. With Jake remarried to the much younger Agness (Lake Bell), Jane is now, of all things, the other woman. Caught in the middle of their renewed romance is Adam (Martin), an architect hired to remodel Jane’s kitchen. Healing from a divorce of his own, Adam starts to fall for Jane, but soon realizes he’s become part of a love triangle. Should Jane and Jake move on with their lives, or is love truly lovelier the second time around? It’s…complicated.