January 2011
UI February 2011 Meeting Agenda - January 25, 2011
I. Announcements – Made by UI Secretary, Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker – Eric Vollweiler
Eric has been involved with the entertainment industry for over 16 years. He started with internships is marketing and public relations for Equity and Broadway Theater, the N.Y. State Theater Institute, Proctors Theatre and Theaterfest in N.J., where Eric worked with Betty Buckley and Melba Moore.
His next path took him to extra's casting, starting with Powers Professional talent in upstate, N.Y. in 1997-1998 and worked on “The Horse Whisperer,” “In & Out,” and “Law and Order”. Eric later studied at Emerson and got involved with more extra casting positions, such as Boston Casting and Kevin Fennesey Casting in 2000, working on “What's the Worst that can Happen?” and “Osmosis Jones. During Eric's last semester at Emerson he moved to LA in 2001 and interned at DreamWorks SKG casting department where Eric worked on “The Time Machine, “Last Castle,” “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron” and “Spin City.” Before Eric moved to LA he interned on his first film Festival, Nantucket (2000), than came Sundance Film Festival in (2002). These two experiences created a new destination and a passion that would stay with Eric for years to come.
In 2005 in LA Eric was in charge of advertising and business development for the DIY Convention, Do it Yourself, in Film, Music & Books. Also in 2005, Eric and Brian Roth created VR Events and with the help of Los Angeles Family Magazine raised over $100,000 to produce the “Youth Actors Expo” in Sherman Oaks, CA.
In 2006, Eric produced and was involved with sponsorship, advertising and celebrity booking for Silver Lake Film Festival, Pan African Film & Arts Festival, The Now Casting Film Festival, Indi slate and Film Festival Reporters party at Sundance, Moving Pictures Magazine, Tribeca Film Festival party, The Film Festival Summit in Las Vegas and “The Great New Wonderful” Premeire at the Angelica Film Center in Manhattan.
In 2007 Eric was co-producer on the Ed Wood Film Festival in Albany and Ruff Cutz Indie Film Conference in Boston.
In 2008 Eric met Zach Letzberg and became the associate producer on the Film, State & Showbiz Expo in Manhattan which is now the Showbiz Expo in NY and LA. Also, in 2008, Eric was Co-producer/Conference Director of Ruff Cutz Indie Film Conference at BU's CDIA campus in Waltham, MA.
In 2010, Eric worked on the Showbiz Expo in NY and LA, produced an Evening with Melba Moore at Proctor's Theatre and produced Film Columbia's Film Festival party.
Eric is presently working on the Showbiz Expo taking place in NY on March, 26 and LA on May, 6-7. Eric is also one of this year’s producers on the Ballston Spa Film Festival in August. A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow
III. 15-Minute Networking Break
IV. Film Screenings:
Jon Russell Cring: Director Jon Russell Cring will be screening a clip from his new feature film AND SEE ALL THE PEOPLE, also slated to be screened Thursday, January 27th, at the Madison Theater at 7 p.m.: TIX $5 - Thursday January 27th @ 7:00 P.M., Madison Theater 1040 Madison Ave., Albany, NY. www.extraordinaryfilmproject.com
Heidi Philipsen: Heidi will be screening her 1998 interview with George Clooney at the Berlin Film Festival – remnants of her time as a reporter with Deutsche Welle TV – and significant as the Berlin Film Festival is this month. Time: circa 5 minutes Don't Miss It!
Open Call for the 4th Annual Ballston Spa Film Festival - January 25, 2011
SEEKING SHORT FILM ENTRIES
The Ballston Spa (International) Film Festival (BSFF) is now seeking short film entries for the 4th annual festival presented this August 5th & 6th, 2011. All genres will be accepted for independent films ranging from 5-15 minutes (or 3-10 minutes for the student division).
Awards will be presented in 11 categories (including separate categories for High School/College students), including prizes in animation, documentary, and narrative. Previous years’ entries have been received from all around the world by both amateurs and professionals. The 2011 entries so far include films from Poland and a new world premiere from Jason Outenreath. Jason swept all four student awards during the 2008 BSFF with his short film, “Jean’s Postmodern Masterpiece.”
Films are judged by a panel of Hollywood professionals. Past judges include the people behind such films as Silence of the Lambs, Manchurian Candidate, Doc Hollywood, Any Given Sunday, True Lies, and Star Trek: The Next Generation. Previous winners have gone on to receive many other honors including BSFF 2009’s best animated short winner, “French Roast,” by Fabrice Joubert, nominated for the 2009 Academy Awards.
Film entries must be submitted on DVD and play in a standard DVD player. DVDs must be mailed in with a completed application and the entry fee ($5 for students, $25 for non-students) by 3/31/11. To download the application or to learn more about the BSFF, go to http://www.bspafilm.com.
The BSFF is put on by the Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association, a non-profit community organization committed to making the Village of Ballston Spa a better place to live and work, and to bringing quality arts and entertainment events for all ages to the community. Funded in part by the Saratoga Program for Arts Funding and by area businesses, all proceeds go toward future festivals and other community events presented by the Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association. For more information on submission, talents, events, or sponsorship, go to http://www.bspafilm.com.
I. Announcements – Made by UI Secretary, Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker – Eric Vollweiler
Eric has been involved with the entertainment industry for over 16 years. He started with internships is marketing and public relations for Equity and Broadway Theater, the N.Y. State Theater Institute, Proctors Theatre and Theaterfest in N.J., where Eric worked with Betty Buckley and Melba Moore.
His next path took him to extra's casting, starting with Powers Professional talent in upstate, N.Y. in 1997-1998 and worked on “The Horse Whisperer,” “In & Out,” and “Law and Order”. Eric later studied at Emerson and got involved with more extra casting positions, such as Boston Casting and Kevin Fennesey Casting in 2000, working on “What's the Worst that can Happen?” and “Osmosis Jones. During Eric's last semester at Emerson he moved to LA in 2001 and interned at DreamWorks SKG casting department where Eric worked on “The Time Machine, “Last Castle,” “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron” and “Spin City.” Before Eric moved to LA he interned on his first film Festival, Nantucket (2000), than came Sundance Film Festival in (2002). These two experiences created a new destination and a passion that would stay with Eric for years to come.
In 2005 in LA Eric was in charge of advertising and business development for the DIY Convention, Do it Yourself, in Film, Music & Books. Also in 2005, Eric and Brian Roth created VR Events and with the help of Los Angeles Family Magazine raised over $100,000 to produce the “Youth Actors Expo” in Sherman Oaks, CA.
In 2006, Eric produced and was involved with sponsorship, advertising and celebrity booking for Silver Lake Film Festival, Pan African Film & Arts Festival, The Now Casting Film Festival, Indi slate and Film Festival Reporters party at Sundance, Moving Pictures Magazine, Tribeca Film Festival party, The Film Festival Summit in Las Vegas and “The Great New Wonderful” Premeire at the Angelica Film Center in Manhattan.
In 2007 Eric was co-producer on the Ed Wood Film Festival in Albany and Ruff Cutz Indie Film Conference in Boston.
In 2008 Eric met Zach Letzberg and became the associate producer on the Film, State & Showbiz Expo in Manhattan which is now the Showbiz Expo in NY and LA. Also, in 2008, Eric was Co-producer/Conference Director of Ruff Cutz Indie Film Conference at BU's CDIA campus in Waltham, MA.
In 2010, Eric worked on the Showbiz Expo in NY and LA, produced an Evening with Melba Moore at Proctor's Theatre and produced Film Columbia's Film Festival party.
Eric is presently working on the Showbiz Expo taking place in NY on March, 26 and LA on May, 6-7. Eric is also one of this year’s producers on the Ballston Spa Film Festival in August. A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow
III. 15-Minute Networking Break
IV. Film Screenings:
Jon Russell Cring: Director Jon Russell Cring will be screening a clip from his new feature film AND SEE ALL THE PEOPLE, also slated to be screened Thursday, January 27th, at the Madison Theater at 7 p.m.: TIX $5 - Thursday January 27th @ 7:00 P.M., Madison Theater 1040 Madison Ave., Albany, NY. www.extraordinaryfilmproject.com
Heidi Philipsen: Heidi will be screening her 1998 interview with George Clooney at the Berlin Film Festival – remnants of her time as a reporter with Deutsche Welle TV – and significant as the Berlin Film Festival is this month. Time: circa 5 minutes Don't Miss It!
Open Call for the 4th Annual Ballston Spa Film Festival - January 25, 2011
SEEKING SHORT FILM ENTRIES
The Ballston Spa (International) Film Festival (BSFF) is now seeking short film entries for the 4th annual festival presented this August 5th & 6th, 2011. All genres will be accepted for independent films ranging from 5-15 minutes (or 3-10 minutes for the student division).
Awards will be presented in 11 categories (including separate categories for High School/College students), including prizes in animation, documentary, and narrative. Previous years’ entries have been received from all around the world by both amateurs and professionals. The 2011 entries so far include films from Poland and a new world premiere from Jason Outenreath. Jason swept all four student awards during the 2008 BSFF with his short film, “Jean’s Postmodern Masterpiece.”
Films are judged by a panel of Hollywood professionals. Past judges include the people behind such films as Silence of the Lambs, Manchurian Candidate, Doc Hollywood, Any Given Sunday, True Lies, and Star Trek: The Next Generation. Previous winners have gone on to receive many other honors including BSFF 2009’s best animated short winner, “French Roast,” by Fabrice Joubert, nominated for the 2009 Academy Awards.
Film entries must be submitted on DVD and play in a standard DVD player. DVDs must be mailed in with a completed application and the entry fee ($5 for students, $25 for non-students) by 3/31/11. To download the application or to learn more about the BSFF, go to http://www.bspafilm.com.
The BSFF is put on by the Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association, a non-profit community organization committed to making the Village of Ballston Spa a better place to live and work, and to bringing quality arts and entertainment events for all ages to the community. Funded in part by the Saratoga Program for Arts Funding and by area businesses, all proceeds go toward future festivals and other community events presented by the Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association. For more information on submission, talents, events, or sponsorship, go to http://www.bspafilm.com.
February 2011
UI March 2011 Meeting Agenda - February 28, 2011
I. Announcements – Made by UI Secretary, Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker – Jeff Burns & Mark Pezzula of the action/comedy web series SUPER KNOCKED UP.
Jeff Burns is a writer, producer, and director from Troy, NY. His films have screened on PBS and at film festivals throughout the northeast. Jeff has also served as President of Upstate Independents, an organization of filmmakers, actors, and screenwriters in the Capital Region, and co-hosts internet radio show The Everything Film Show. When he’s not making films, Jeff tutors high school students in SAT/ACT prep, Math, Writing, and Latin., and is co-founder of Writing Methods and helps learning-disabled high school students improve their writing and critical reasoning skills. Mr. Burns is currently shooting his new web series Super Knocked Up, an action/comedy about a female super-villain who gets knocked up by a superhero. The series is based on Jeff’s actual life. Okay, not really. But he would really like to date a hot super-villain! Check out Super Knocked Up at www.facebook.com/superknockedup Mark Pezzula is a full-time professional New York Department of Labor State Worker, part-time amateur-amateur film critic, and amateur-amateur-amateur part-time actor. When not state-working, Mark is 1/5 host of Blog Talk Radio's The Everything Film Show and 1/2 dynamic-duo of director Jeff Burns's upcoming web series Super Knocked Up, in which he plays lady-killer and superhero Captain Amazing. Mark also is head writer and editor of The Everything Film Show's blog The Everything Film Blog. Jeff and Mark will be discussing their internet radio talk show, The Everything Film Show that can be heard every Thursday night from 11:00p.m. until 1:00 a.m. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/theeverythingfilmshow A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow
III. 15-Minute Networking Break
IV. Film Screenings:
I. Announcements – Made by UI Secretary, Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker – Jeff Burns & Mark Pezzula of the action/comedy web series SUPER KNOCKED UP.
Jeff Burns is a writer, producer, and director from Troy, NY. His films have screened on PBS and at film festivals throughout the northeast. Jeff has also served as President of Upstate Independents, an organization of filmmakers, actors, and screenwriters in the Capital Region, and co-hosts internet radio show The Everything Film Show. When he’s not making films, Jeff tutors high school students in SAT/ACT prep, Math, Writing, and Latin., and is co-founder of Writing Methods and helps learning-disabled high school students improve their writing and critical reasoning skills. Mr. Burns is currently shooting his new web series Super Knocked Up, an action/comedy about a female super-villain who gets knocked up by a superhero. The series is based on Jeff’s actual life. Okay, not really. But he would really like to date a hot super-villain! Check out Super Knocked Up at www.facebook.com/superknockedup Mark Pezzula is a full-time professional New York Department of Labor State Worker, part-time amateur-amateur film critic, and amateur-amateur-amateur part-time actor. When not state-working, Mark is 1/5 host of Blog Talk Radio's The Everything Film Show and 1/2 dynamic-duo of director Jeff Burns's upcoming web series Super Knocked Up, in which he plays lady-killer and superhero Captain Amazing. Mark also is head writer and editor of The Everything Film Show's blog The Everything Film Blog. Jeff and Mark will be discussing their internet radio talk show, The Everything Film Show that can be heard every Thursday night from 11:00p.m. until 1:00 a.m. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/theeverythingfilmshow A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow
III. 15-Minute Networking Break
IV. Film Screenings:
March 2011
UI April 2011 Meeting Agenda - March 10, 2011
In memoria di Vincenzo Spataro
Tom Mercer and Mike Camoin, co-founders of Upstate Independents will guest speak at the April 5th, UI meeting in honor of our network’s 16 year anniversary. Both will lead a discussion offering an historical perspective of UI values and highlight recently deceased UI member, Vince Spataro, aka "The Time Keeper" since the early days of UI.
In memoria di Vincenzo Spataro
Tom Mercer and Mike Camoin, co-founders of Upstate Independents will guest speak at the April 5th, UI meeting in honor of our network’s 16 year anniversary. Both will lead a discussion offering an historical perspective of UI values and highlight recently deceased UI member, Vince Spataro, aka "The Time Keeper" since the early days of UI.
April 2011
UI May 2011 Meeting Agenda - April 22, 2011
I. Announcements – Made by UI Secretary, Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker – Debby Goedeke, Albany County Film Commissioner, Capital-Saratoga Film Commission, www.albany.org
Debby Goedeke is currently Convention Services Manager of the Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACCVB) and Albany County Film Commissioner for the Capital-Saratoga Film Commission. Since 2000 Debby has also worked as a Corporate Sales Manager for the Crowne Plaza Albany hotel and Vice-President of Meetings & Conventions for Empire Meeting Solutions, Guilderland, NY. Debby assists all of her clients by matching up the right “Albany” resource for their sporting tournaments, military reunions, family reunions and conference needs. In addition, Debby works with the motion picture industry as well as providing assistance on documentaries and television projects. She recently worked with Columbia Pictures on SALT and The Other Guys.
Debby is originally from the High Peaks region of Keene, NY where her family was in the hospitality industry. In her spare time, Debby enjoys running and participating in marathons and triathlons. Debby and her husband, Art, live in Delmar with their Yorkshire Terrier Lance.
A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow
III. 15-Minute Networking Break
IV. Film Screenings:
Short scene with Yvonne Perry, Julianne Nicholson and Jeff Goldblum
2. Cultural Competence: RN Training Program Shot summer 2010 ~3 minutes
Yvonne Perry as moderator, working off a teleprompter.
3. Risk Management: Managing Difficult Patients &Family Members Shot Fall 2010 Bronx, NY ~3 minutes
Yvonne Perry plays a Doctor dealing with a difficult family member in a busy hospital.
Test screening for 9 minute short about two dates gone wrong and “wronger.” Seeking feedback on editing choices and material.
Don't Miss It!
Where we’re located: Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com
I. Announcements – Made by UI Secretary, Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker – Debby Goedeke, Albany County Film Commissioner, Capital-Saratoga Film Commission, www.albany.org
Debby Goedeke is currently Convention Services Manager of the Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACCVB) and Albany County Film Commissioner for the Capital-Saratoga Film Commission. Since 2000 Debby has also worked as a Corporate Sales Manager for the Crowne Plaza Albany hotel and Vice-President of Meetings & Conventions for Empire Meeting Solutions, Guilderland, NY. Debby assists all of her clients by matching up the right “Albany” resource for their sporting tournaments, military reunions, family reunions and conference needs. In addition, Debby works with the motion picture industry as well as providing assistance on documentaries and television projects. She recently worked with Columbia Pictures on SALT and The Other Guys.
Debby is originally from the High Peaks region of Keene, NY where her family was in the hospitality industry. In her spare time, Debby enjoys running and participating in marathons and triathlons. Debby and her husband, Art, live in Delmar with their Yorkshire Terrier Lance.
A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow
III. 15-Minute Networking Break
IV. Film Screenings:
- a. We’re excited to be screening work from UI actress, Yvonne Perry:
Short scene with Yvonne Perry, Julianne Nicholson and Jeff Goldblum
2. Cultural Competence: RN Training Program Shot summer 2010 ~3 minutes
Yvonne Perry as moderator, working off a teleprompter.
3. Risk Management: Managing Difficult Patients &Family Members Shot Fall 2010 Bronx, NY ~3 minutes
Yvonne Perry plays a Doctor dealing with a difficult family member in a busy hospital.
- b. Rich Lounello will be screening his new actor’s reel.
- c. Heidi Philipsen will be screening her reel interview with George Clooney.
- d. Kevin Craig West will screen his latest short, “Chicken Feed,”(3 min. 41 sec), shot entirely on his camera phone video!
- e. Mike Feurstein will screen "Save the Date" with Kevin Craig West, Christy Lee Hughes, Tim Dugan and Hillary Parker.
Test screening for 9 minute short about two dates gone wrong and “wronger.” Seeking feedback on editing choices and material.
Don't Miss It!
Where we’re located: Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com
June 2011
UI June 2011 Meeting Agenda - June 1, 2011
I. Announcements – Made by UI Secretary, Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker – Michael J. Massey Michael J. Massey – Media Man, Your Ad Here Michael J. Massey always felt he was bound for greater things. He started his career in banking after graduating from SUNY Brockport with a B. A. in History but over the years has become known up and down the East Coast as a media mad man and skilled strategist who generates measured results for clients. His portfolio of clients has included a Fortune 500 insurance company, a commercial real estate firm, a Southeast based wealth management bank and several community based credit unions in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. He has consulted with several small to medium size businesses on developing advertising and media campaigns including a retail drugstore chain, a men’s grooming franchise, a high end butcher shop and a commercial builder. He also has learned to channel his creative energy into many on going projects including developing several TV pilots, a screenplay, and a novel about reincarnation. He and his business partner, Chrissie VanWormer, have co-authored ‘Your Ad Here: De-mystifying the Business of Media and Advertising’ which is a how-to book written in an easy to follow conversational format geared specifically for small to medium sized businesses. But it’s not all business. Massey lives with his wife and three children in Upstate New York where he enjoys all fitness activities but especially running and weight lifting. A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow
III. 15-Minute Networking Break
IV. Film Screenings: a. Daniel Trinh - SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST - Survival of the Fittest is a dark drama film that explores the psychological mind of school shooters through three survivors' experiences with the perpetrator of the United Valley Community College shooting. This is Daniel's first film as a filmmaker, as he has worked mainly as actor. He was Director, Producer, Writer, & Lead Actor on this project and worked with both UI members (Barbara Whitchurch) & Non-UI members to put this production together and even worked with people from out-of-state. Daniel's goal with this film is to get it out there to the film festival world (including Sundance) to stimulate interest in creating the budget for a feature feature film loosely based off the short film. RUN TIME: 15mins Don't Miss It!
Where we’re located: Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production. Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com Thanks and see you there!
I. Announcements – Made by UI Secretary, Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker – Michael J. Massey Michael J. Massey – Media Man, Your Ad Here Michael J. Massey always felt he was bound for greater things. He started his career in banking after graduating from SUNY Brockport with a B. A. in History but over the years has become known up and down the East Coast as a media mad man and skilled strategist who generates measured results for clients. His portfolio of clients has included a Fortune 500 insurance company, a commercial real estate firm, a Southeast based wealth management bank and several community based credit unions in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. He has consulted with several small to medium size businesses on developing advertising and media campaigns including a retail drugstore chain, a men’s grooming franchise, a high end butcher shop and a commercial builder. He also has learned to channel his creative energy into many on going projects including developing several TV pilots, a screenplay, and a novel about reincarnation. He and his business partner, Chrissie VanWormer, have co-authored ‘Your Ad Here: De-mystifying the Business of Media and Advertising’ which is a how-to book written in an easy to follow conversational format geared specifically for small to medium sized businesses. But it’s not all business. Massey lives with his wife and three children in Upstate New York where he enjoys all fitness activities but especially running and weight lifting. A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow
III. 15-Minute Networking Break
IV. Film Screenings: a. Daniel Trinh - SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST - Survival of the Fittest is a dark drama film that explores the psychological mind of school shooters through three survivors' experiences with the perpetrator of the United Valley Community College shooting. This is Daniel's first film as a filmmaker, as he has worked mainly as actor. He was Director, Producer, Writer, & Lead Actor on this project and worked with both UI members (Barbara Whitchurch) & Non-UI members to put this production together and even worked with people from out-of-state. Daniel's goal with this film is to get it out there to the film festival world (including Sundance) to stimulate interest in creating the budget for a feature feature film loosely based off the short film. RUN TIME: 15mins Don't Miss It!
Where we’re located: Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production. Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com Thanks and see you there!
July 2011
UI July 2011 Meeting Agenda - July 5, 2011
I. Announcements - presented by Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker of the month: Schenectady County Film Commissioner, Don Rittner
Please join us as we hear the latest and greatest from Don Rittner, from the Schenectady Film Commission, about his experience in building a film commission from the ground up and bringing the production of “THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES” with stars Bradley Cooper and Ryan Gossling to Schenectady this summer. A 20-minute Q & A session will follow.
III. A 15-minute Networking Break
III. Film Screenings
IV. We’ve got great film screenings on the slate for July – get ready to take ‘em in, give honest feedback and don’t forget the popcorn!
Don't Miss It!
Where we’re located:
Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com
UI August 2011 Meeting Agenda - July 29, 2011
I. Announcements - presented by Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker of the Month – Mike Feurstein
Mike Feurstein's production staff consists largely of student apprentices between the ages of 10 and 21. He is committed to helping area youth realize their talent as actors, storytellers and crew. These students have worked on set with industry professionals and alongside professional actors with credits on network TV soap operas, feature films and the national stage. He endeavors to help them create their own short films and media projects.
This goal is best seen in productions of the acclaimed web series eScape, seen at eScapetheseries.com, and the antibullying movie "How to UnMake a Bully" which has been widely acclaimed and is currently in high demand from regional and national school districts and counseling organizations.
He dedicates his time to ensuring that all children--and adults--he works with are able to encounter the same wonderful opportunities he was afforded throughout his own life.
His work has won gold medals, Telly awards, and recently a proclamation which named June 14th as a day in his honor throughout the town of Glenville. His shorts have screened in NYC theaters, as part of television anthologies and is consistently used by larger companies such as Activision and Pitney-Bowes in their outreach and company branding. Mike has also directed cinematics for the blockbuster, award-winning Guitar Hero game series. He is at work co-creating high quality lecture-series DVDs about instructing children with autism. His past work screened at theaters in New York City and venues across the country as part of a traveling film festival. He owns a lighting rental company at cucumberalley.com, servicing low budget and indie productions, with customers as far and wide as LA and the UK.
A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow.
III. A 15-minute Networking Break
The Upstate Independents Board:
Kevin Craig West: President
Rosemary Thomas: Secretary
Ron Pucherelli: Membership Chair
Heidi Philipsen: Programming Chair
Barbara Whitchurch: Media Chair
Charles Galuski: Web Chair
Rich Lundy: Fundraising Chair
Don't Miss It!
Where we’re located:
Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com
I. Announcements - presented by Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker of the month: Schenectady County Film Commissioner, Don Rittner
Please join us as we hear the latest and greatest from Don Rittner, from the Schenectady Film Commission, about his experience in building a film commission from the ground up and bringing the production of “THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES” with stars Bradley Cooper and Ryan Gossling to Schenectady this summer. A 20-minute Q & A session will follow.
III. A 15-minute Networking Break
III. Film Screenings
IV. We’ve got great film screenings on the slate for July – get ready to take ‘em in, give honest feedback and don’t forget the popcorn!
Don't Miss It!
Where we’re located:
Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com
UI August 2011 Meeting Agenda - July 29, 2011
I. Announcements - presented by Rosemary Thomas
II. Guest Speaker of the Month – Mike Feurstein
Mike Feurstein's production staff consists largely of student apprentices between the ages of 10 and 21. He is committed to helping area youth realize their talent as actors, storytellers and crew. These students have worked on set with industry professionals and alongside professional actors with credits on network TV soap operas, feature films and the national stage. He endeavors to help them create their own short films and media projects.
This goal is best seen in productions of the acclaimed web series eScape, seen at eScapetheseries.com, and the antibullying movie "How to UnMake a Bully" which has been widely acclaimed and is currently in high demand from regional and national school districts and counseling organizations.
He dedicates his time to ensuring that all children--and adults--he works with are able to encounter the same wonderful opportunities he was afforded throughout his own life.
His work has won gold medals, Telly awards, and recently a proclamation which named June 14th as a day in his honor throughout the town of Glenville. His shorts have screened in NYC theaters, as part of television anthologies and is consistently used by larger companies such as Activision and Pitney-Bowes in their outreach and company branding. Mike has also directed cinematics for the blockbuster, award-winning Guitar Hero game series. He is at work co-creating high quality lecture-series DVDs about instructing children with autism. His past work screened at theaters in New York City and venues across the country as part of a traveling film festival. He owns a lighting rental company at cucumberalley.com, servicing low budget and indie productions, with customers as far and wide as LA and the UK.
A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow.
III. A 15-minute Networking Break
The Upstate Independents Board:
Kevin Craig West: President
Rosemary Thomas: Secretary
Ron Pucherelli: Membership Chair
Heidi Philipsen: Programming Chair
Barbara Whitchurch: Media Chair
Charles Galuski: Web Chair
Rich Lundy: Fundraising Chair
Don't Miss It!
Where we’re located:
Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com
September 2011
UI September 2011 Meeting Agenda - September 5, 2011
Upstate Independents, September 6, 2011 Meeting Agenda
I. Announcements
II. Guest Speaker of the Month – Upstate Independent members who worked on Love Orchard and/or The Place Beyond the Pines This month, we invite current Upstate Independents members to talk about their experience with two recent productions being filmed in upstate New York: Love Orchard directed by Farhad Mann and The Place Beyond The Pines directed by Derek Cianfrance. UI members have been integral to these productions from being background to production assistants in the office and/or on set to casting directors and more. A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow.
III. A 15-minute Networking Break
IV. Film Screenings: Jon Cring – TOP OF THE WORLD by Talia Denis UI member Jon Cring presents the music video for "Top of the World" by Talia Denis, which he was a director/producer on. RUN TIME: 3mins
The Upstate Independents Board:
Kevin Craig West: President
Mikolis Sargalis: Vice-President
Rosemary Thomas: Secretary
Ron Pucherelli: Membership Chair
Heidi Philipsen: Programming Chair
Barbara Whitchurch: Media Chair
Charles Galuski: Web Chair
Rich Lundy: Fundraising Chair
Don't Miss It!
Where we’re located:
Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com
Upstate Independents, September 6, 2011 Meeting Agenda
I. Announcements
II. Guest Speaker of the Month – Upstate Independent members who worked on Love Orchard and/or The Place Beyond the Pines This month, we invite current Upstate Independents members to talk about their experience with two recent productions being filmed in upstate New York: Love Orchard directed by Farhad Mann and The Place Beyond The Pines directed by Derek Cianfrance. UI members have been integral to these productions from being background to production assistants in the office and/or on set to casting directors and more. A 15-minute Q & A session is to follow.
III. A 15-minute Networking Break
IV. Film Screenings: Jon Cring – TOP OF THE WORLD by Talia Denis UI member Jon Cring presents the music video for "Top of the World" by Talia Denis, which he was a director/producer on. RUN TIME: 3mins
The Upstate Independents Board:
Kevin Craig West: President
Mikolis Sargalis: Vice-President
Rosemary Thomas: Secretary
Ron Pucherelli: Membership Chair
Heidi Philipsen: Programming Chair
Barbara Whitchurch: Media Chair
Charles Galuski: Web Chair
Rich Lundy: Fundraising Chair
Don't Miss It!
Where we’re located:
Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production.
Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com
October 2011
UI October 2011 Meeting Agenda - October 3, 2011
Upstate Independents, October 4, 2011
Meeting Agenda
I. Announcements
II. UI Industry Expo – This month's Upstate Independents meeting will sponsor local vendors from across the board to share their knowledge and discuss the services they provide to the indie community thriving in upstate New York and the surrounding regions. Only here will you find out about the latest and greatest in areas such as lighting equipment, cameras, editing software, acting classes, writing software, sound and video production, production management, industry-related web services, and more.
III. Screenings – Kevin Craig West will present two shorts he acted in:
The Upstate Independents Board:
Kevin Craig West: President
Mikolis Sargalis: Vice-President
Rosemary Thomas: Secretary
Ron Pucherelli: Treasurer and Membership Chair
Heidi Philipsen: Programming Chair
Barbara Whitchurch: Media Chair
Charles Galuski: Web Chair
Rich Lundy: Fundraising Chair
Where we’re located: Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Click here to view the Google map and get directions.
It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production. Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com For last minute changes in the schedule, please visit http://www.upstateindependents.com on the day of the meeting.
Looking for crew - October 19, 2011
Have resumes/references sent directly Deborah Goedeke at dgoedeke@albany.org.
CREW NEEDS: --A lighting/grip PA to help our Director of Photography (ideally someone with set experience to set up the dolly, help with lighting, etc.) --A key PA/producer's assistant to help with a variety of tasks throughout the shoot. These will include everything from scheduling to locations to organizing extras and crowd scenes. --In both cases, the ideal person will be someone who is eager to learn about and be involved in film shoots. A ton of experience is not necessary, but a great attitude and a willingness to jump in where needed is. --We also will be seeking an additional person for a day or two where we have more complicated shoots and crowd control needs I can go into more detail as we speak.
Upstate Independents, October 4, 2011
Meeting Agenda
I. Announcements
II. UI Industry Expo – This month's Upstate Independents meeting will sponsor local vendors from across the board to share their knowledge and discuss the services they provide to the indie community thriving in upstate New York and the surrounding regions. Only here will you find out about the latest and greatest in areas such as lighting equipment, cameras, editing software, acting classes, writing software, sound and video production, production management, industry-related web services, and more.
III. Screenings – Kevin Craig West will present two shorts he acted in:
- Monkey Business is about a job interview. RUN TIME: 5 minutes
- Cameron and Steph – dating advice RUN TIME: 6 minutes
The Upstate Independents Board:
Kevin Craig West: President
Mikolis Sargalis: Vice-President
Rosemary Thomas: Secretary
Ron Pucherelli: Treasurer and Membership Chair
Heidi Philipsen: Programming Chair
Barbara Whitchurch: Media Chair
Charles Galuski: Web Chair
Rich Lundy: Fundraising Chair
Where we’re located: Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Click here to view the Google map and get directions.
It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production. Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com For last minute changes in the schedule, please visit http://www.upstateindependents.com on the day of the meeting.
Looking for crew - October 19, 2011
Have resumes/references sent directly Deborah Goedeke at dgoedeke@albany.org.
CREW NEEDS: --A lighting/grip PA to help our Director of Photography (ideally someone with set experience to set up the dolly, help with lighting, etc.) --A key PA/producer's assistant to help with a variety of tasks throughout the shoot. These will include everything from scheduling to locations to organizing extras and crowd scenes. --In both cases, the ideal person will be someone who is eager to learn about and be involved in film shoots. A ton of experience is not necessary, but a great attitude and a willingness to jump in where needed is. --We also will be seeking an additional person for a day or two where we have more complicated shoots and crowd control needs I can go into more detail as we speak.
December 2011
UI January 2012 Meeting Agenda - December 30, 2011
Upstate Independents, January 3, 2012
Meeting Agenda
The Upstate Independents Board:
Kevin Craig West: President
Mikolis Sargalis: Vice-President
Rosemary Thomas: Secretary
Ron Pucherelli: Treasurer and Membership Chair
Heidi Philipsen: Programming Chair
Barbara Whitchurch: Media Chair
Charles Galuski: Web Chair
Where we’re located: Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production. Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com
Upstate Independents, January 3, 2012
Meeting Agenda
- Announcements
- Guest Speaker – Tom MercerTom Mercer will share some insights and lessons learned while producing the cinematic documentary “American General: Benedict Arnold.” He will show some work-in-progress clips from this feature length film and talk about the many challenges he and his partners at Talon Films have had to overcome as they recreate key events of the American Revolution on both land and sea with a literal and virtual cast of thousands. A preview trailer can be viewed at www.talonfilms.comAbout Tom: Thomas Mercer studied film at Ithaca College while pursuing a degree in Politics. He made his directorial debut with the feature “UnCivil Liberties” currently in national distribution through Ariztical Entertainment. Prior to that he produced “Face of the Enemy” a short film which was showcased at the Claremont- Ferrand Film Festival in France and was subsequently picked up for European distribution by BritShorts of London. He co-wrote and co-produced “Women on Parole,” a TV pilot with InFocus Productions, is currently writing and producing “Benedict Arnold: American General” with Talon Films and has co-written three other feature screenplays. He served as associate producer on the official orientation film of the Saratoga Battlefield National Historical Park.
- Networking break – 15 minutes
- Film screenings will be finalized at a later date.
The Upstate Independents Board:
Kevin Craig West: President
Mikolis Sargalis: Vice-President
Rosemary Thomas: Secretary
Ron Pucherelli: Treasurer and Membership Chair
Heidi Philipsen: Programming Chair
Barbara Whitchurch: Media Chair
Charles Galuski: Web Chair
Where we’re located: Upstate Independents meets the first Tuesday of every month at The Linda: WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central Avenue, Albany, NY from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Click here to view the Google map and get directions. It is a great opportunity to network with others who are interested in all aspects of film and television production. Check out the best independent film and media resource in Upstate New York. For more information, e-mail us at info@upstateindependents.com
