Can One Man Save The Vanishing Hemlock?

For Immediate Release
December 7, 2007

Can One Man Save The Vanishing Hemlock?

In groundbreaking documentary, Back 40 Films joins leading arborist Will Blozan in a race against time to save last ancient Hemlock forest in Southeastern United States.

Charlotte, CA – (12/07/2007) In the Southeastern United States stands one of the most spectacular sites in the world, the ancient hemlock forests. These magnificent old growth trees, towering at times over 170 feet and living as long as 600 years, provide some of the most diverse eco-system habitats in the southeast. Yet, deep in the heart of their pristine tranquility a terror is mounting that, left unchecked, will destroy what small clasp of ancient ecological history remains in this country.

The soaring and majestic native eastern and Carolina hemlocks have been infested by a human-introduced insect pest, the hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA). Few of the remaining ancient hemlock forests are free of this devastating infestation, and without financial and human resources allocated to save them, this precious slice of ecological history will be destroyed forever.

Filmmaker David Huff is raising the alarm through an inspiring and challenging feature documentary, “The Vanishing Hemlock: A Race Against Time.” In the film, Huff will follow arborist and champion tree finder Will Blozan (recently featured in The New Yorker in an article on the plight of the hemlock) deep into the hemlock forests of the southern Appalachian Mountains. There he will document the devastating impact the loss of these ancient trees is having on the rich diversity of southern wild forests. Shot on location in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this film will reveal the devastating loss, which has already occurred, and challenge audiences to take up the cause to protect what remains.

“The Vanishing Hemlock: A Race Against Time” has been heartily endorsed by the Southern Documentary Fund and has been awarded a tax-deductible status so that much needed funds may be raised, hopefully, in time to bring awareness to this rapidly progressing biological crisis. “This is part of our legacy,” said Huff. “We must do all that we can to save these forests, for the rich diversity of life within them, for ourselves and for our children."

“The Vanishing Hemlock” is a production of Back 40 Films in association with Musk Entertainment.

Back 40 Films is an independent film production company based in Charlotte, NC. Rooted in the American South, the company draws on its cultural and geographical surroundings for inspiration. Working with both regional and Hollywood based casts and crews, Back 40 Films pulls together some of the most sought after talent in the industry to make its films. In doing so, Back 40 Films strives to produce the best in high quality films. www.back40films.com

For more information on how you can participate in the groundbreaking documentary, “The Vanishing Hemlock,” visit the Southern Documentary Fund’s project page at http://southerndocumentaryfund.org/works-in-progress/the-vanishing-hemlock or contact producer/writer David Huff, Back 40 Films at david@back40films.com.

To support this documentary, contact Producer, David Huff
Tel (828) 712-6712
1315 East Blvd., Ste. 203,
Charlotte, NC 28203
david@back40films.com

Contact:
Popular Press Media Group (PPMG)
+1 (310) 860-7774
media@ppmg.info

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Who Is The Next Celebrity Judge In The San Diego Mega Star Competition?

For Immediate Release

September 24, 2007

Who is the next Celebrity Judge in
the San Diego Mega Star Competition?

Mario Lopez and Emily Osment kick off Round 1!

San Diego, CA (9/24/07) - Mario Lopez (from ABC's "Dancing with the Stars") and Emily Osment (from Disney's "Hannah Montana") were on hand with Council member and Mother Goose Parade President Jillian Hanson-Cox, for the kick off of Hanson-Cox's 1st Annual San Diego Mega Star competition, Round 1! Also joining the celebrities, were Los Angeles agent Janna Joos of International Celebrity Images, rising singing sensation, Ashley E, and Pussycat Doll's reality series songstress, Jenna Artzer and Monica Zech rounded out the team as Master of Ceremonies.

"The level of competition was astounding," said Hanson-Cox of the event, "it was a powerful reminder of the extraordinary scope of talent we have here, in our own back yard, selecting only one individual is going to be the most difficult task we have yet to face. The Mother Goose Parade is having an all-star, celebrity show this year and I am proud to know that whomever we select as the San Diego Mega Star, will fit in perfectly."

The San Diego Mega Star competition was created to discover and promote San Diego county singing talent. The competition consists of five rounds of competition, in two categories: youth (5yrs - 17yrs) and adult (18yrs and older). One Mega Star (winner) will be selected from each category and will perform live on November 18, 2007 on the Main Stage for the El Cajon Mother Goose Parade; one of the largest and oldest televised parades in North America. The Mega Star will walk the red carpet, do the interviews and even arrive in a limo!

Having already drawn the attention of Los Angeles talent scouts, Hanson-Cox is excited and hopeful that one of the Mega Star contestants will be discovered by San Diego's northern neighbors, Hollywood.

With throngs of fans lining up for a photo opportunity with their favorite celebrity, the big question on everyone's lips... who will be the next Mega Star celebrity judges this coming Saturday, September 29? "Let's just say, they are amazing and everyone knows them," said a smiling Hanson-Cox, refusing to let the cat out of the bag too early!

For more on the Mother Goose Parade, Dinner With The Stars, San Diego Mega Star, American Mega Star, Deputy Mayor Jillian Hanson-Cox, and all the associated events and/or to acquire press credentials, please contact:
Popular Press Media Group
(310) 860-7774 Tel
media@ppmg.info

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10 Reasons Kids Will Flip for San Diego County's Mother Goose Parade

For Immediate Release
Wednesday, September 12, 2007

10 Reasons Kids Will Flip for San Diego County's
Mother Goose Parade

Star studded parade hopes to attract families from Southern California and beyond!

Hollywood, CA (09/12/07) - On November 18, 2007 some of televisions biggest teen stars will be descending on the town of El Cajon, California; a 20 minute drive from San Diego and and only 90 minutes from Los Angeles.

"High School Musical" mega star, Corbin Bleu will kick off the parade as the Grand Marshall, alongside Honorary Grand Marshall, "Chips" icon, Erik Estrada.

The entertainment will kick off at 11:00am on Main Street, with a pre-show concert by Richie Kotzen. Regarded as one of the top 50 guitarists in the world, Kotzen's career includes fronting the world renowned rock groups "Poison" and "Mr. Big", his new album is currently soaring to the top of the international charts.

Rolling into the pre-show, "American Idol" stunner Katharine McPhee; top pop singer Jesse McCartney and MySpace.com celebrity chanteuse Chantelle Paige will each take the mic with live performances.

On the floats, the audience will be able to see more of their favorite stars including Nickelodeon's Drake Bell of the "Drake & Josh" show; Disney's "Cory In The House" and "That's So Raven" star Kyle Massey; Emily Osment of Disney's "Hannah Montana"; Devon Werkheiser of Nickelodeon's "Ned's Declassified" and Ricky Ullman of Nickelodeon's "Phil of the Future".

"Parades are an essential part of American tradition, and we wanted to bring it back to the kids, making it fun and interesting for them," said El Cajon Council Member Jillian Hanson-Cox, President of the Mother Goose Parade Association, "we are hoping this is going to be our biggest year yet."

The Mother Goose Parade, (www.MotherGooseParade.com) in it's 61st year, is an integral part of El Cajon and the City's history. Over the years the parade has touted some of entertainment's biggest stars as it's Grand Marshall, including Disney's Mickey Mouse, Warner Brother's Bugs Bunny, Fox's Bart Simpson!

For more on the Mother Goose Parade, Dinner With The Stars, San Diego Mega Star, American Mega Star, Deputy Mayor Jillian Hanson-Cox, and all the associated events and/or to acquire press credentials, please contact:
Popular Press Media Group
(310) 860-7774 Tel
media@ppmg.info
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Save The Date: San Diego County's Mother Goose Parade Nov 18th!

For Immediate Release
Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Contact: Media Relations
Popular Press Media Group (PPMG)
Tel: (310) 860-7774
Fax: (310) 388-0784
Email: Media@ppmg.info

SAVE THE DATE: November 18th

San Diego County's
Mother Goose Parade
in El Cajon

Star studded parade hopes to attract families from Southern California and beyond with their star-studded slate!

WHAT: 61st Annual Mother Goose Parade - an all star event!

WHEN: SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2007
Media Check-in Greenroom: 9:00am
Pre-show Concert: 11:00am
Pre-show: 12:00pm
Parade Kick-off: 12:30pm
After Party: 2:30pm

WHERE: Main Street, El Cajon, CA
20 minutes East of San Diego
90 minutes South of Los Angeles (I5 to I805 to I8)

WHO: Corbin Bleu, Disney's "High School Musical"(Parade Grand Marshall)
Drake Bell, Nickelodeon's "Drake & Josh"
Kyle Massey, Disney's "Cory In The House" & "That's So Raven"
Emily Osment, Disney's "Hannah Montana"
Devon Werkheiser, Nickelodeon's "Ned's Declassified"
Ricky Ullman, Nickelodeon's "Phil of the Future"
Jesse McCartney
Katharine McPhee, American Idol
Richie Kotzen, solo artist, opened for Rolling Stones, former lead
guitarist for "Poison"
Erik Estrada (Honorary Grand Marshall)

... more celebrities are being confirmed, watch for updates!

MEDIA & PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES:
Interviews with all talent, officials and dignitaries in
Greenroom and on red carpet.
Event coverage.

All media must be credentialled. Badges issued in advance with letter of confirmation.
Media@PPMG.info
Tel: (310) 860-7774

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Simple Things (aka Country Remedy) wins Audience Award at Real to Reel Film Festival

For Immediate Release
July 23, 2007

Contact: Popular Press Media Group (PPMG)
T.(310) 860-7774
Email: media@ppmg.info

Audiences Agree, Simple Things Win
Independent film "Simple Things" (aka Country Remedy) wins Audience Award

Hollywood, CA (07/23/2007) - The independent feature film that is quietly sweeping the country, "Simple Things" took home the Audience Award at the Real to Reel Film Festival this weekend. Executive Producer, David Huff was on-hand to accept the award. This marks the ninth major award “Simple Things” has won this year.

A wonderful family story, "Simple Things" written and directed by award winning Andrew C. Erin and produced by multi award winning Tosca Musk (Back 40 Films in association with Musk Entertainment); is inspired by the writings of Lewis Hine Award Winner , recipient of North Carolina's Order of the Long Leaf Pine and Sr. Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Dr. Olson Huff.

In "Simple Things", Dr. Evan Gibbs has the world on a string. The leading pediatrician at a Chicago’s children’s hospital, he is poised to takeover as department chair. When cancer suddenly takes the life of his wife, Dr. Gibbs is devastated. Struggling with his loss, he buries himself in work, succeeding only in isolating himself from his son, who so desperately needs him. Begrudgingly and under the very strong suggestion of his hospital medical director, Dr. Gibbs consents to aid a small town in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina by setting up a medical clinic during his now mandatory summer vacation. Everything is not what he expects; his big city attitude clashes against the ways of the small community. Through the support of a colorful cast of characters, a mix of drama and humor, Dr. Gibbs finds the strength to face his loss and reconnect with his son, while discovering that the “simple things” are the most important.

A triumphant vote that audiences are looking for positive, value-based entertainment "Simple Things" is currently touring the festival circuit and is distributed by Screen Ventures Media.

For more information, please go to www.SimpleThingsTheMovie.com, or call (310) 860-7774, media@ppmg.info

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Lauren Maher heats up the screen as “Scarlett” in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End!

For Immediate Release
May 22, 2007

Lauren Maher heats up the screen as “Scarlett” in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End!

Sultry heart breaker of "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End", Lauren Maher joins the excitement at premiere and talks about her pirate encounters with Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom!

Hollywood, CA – (05/22/07) Lauren Maher is still catching her breath after the unprecedented world premiere of her latest film, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End that was held Saturday, May 19, 2007 at Disneyland.

Lauren, who plays the sultry, red-headed siren, “Scarlett” was exuberant talking to reporters, reminiscing about her favorite moments filming the record-setting blockbuster and even sharing insider tidbits about her onscreen co-stars Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom, “Does it get any better than that?!” she quipped to the media in the guiness book of world records longest red carpet that wove its way down Disneyland's Main Street USA. Maher, wearing a stunning claret red, Feraud couture gown with House of Taylor diamond earrings and diamond cuff, went on to say... "do you think Dame Elizabeth Taylor would mind terribly if I borrowed these pieces for a few years?!"

The crowds seemed to be in agreement, what would a pirate movie be without wenches?! Lauren and onscreen partner-in-crime (and off-screen best friend) Vanessa Branch, endlessly signed autographs for fans and encouraged both viewers and readers alike to join them this weekend in heralding in the final installment of the trilogy.

“I have loved being part of this film, it has been one of the greatest experiences in my life, having an opportunity to work alongside such an amazing team, Gore Verbinski is an extraordinary director and then to be able to connect with the fans, it has been and is – unparalleled.”

Next on deck for Ms. Maher? The lead role in a romantic drama entitled, "I Thought You Were Dead" and a horror film, "33 Griffin Lane".

For more information on Lauren Maher, please go to www.laurenmaher.com.

For all contact:
Popular Press Media Group (PPMG)
T. (310) 860-7774
media@ppmg.info

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VIBME Delivers the Future of Internet Sales With the Patented SCARTTM Card!

For Immediate Release
April 18, 2007

VIBME Delivers the Future of Internet Sales With the Patented SCARTTM Card!

VIBME (Pronounced "Vibe-Me") L.L.C. Holds the Patent That Will Revolutionize the Marketplace of Online Media; VIBME Introduces the Future of Internet Media Distribution: Prepaid Downloads of Specific Items With the SCARTTM Card and the Ability to Give a Serial Number to Digital Media Sold at Retail

LOS ANGELES, CA -- April 18, 2007 -- Have you been to a concert lately where you were told that you could pick up a free promotional download at the end of the show, or that you could purchase the artist's "electronic-album" by simply purchasing your pre-paid download card, there, at the show? Have you purchased a CD with a downloadable bonus track? Back at your personal computer you log online, enter a code and downloaded the music you already paid for. Without even knowing it, you have just participated in a great new test market for media purchases called the SCART™ download.

With SCART™ distribution, the right to download is purchased at retail. The actual content is distributed via the Internet, thus bridging the gap between retail customers and the Internet window shopper. Specific download authorizations are not your typical prepaid "stored value" dollar amount gift cards. These downloads are for your specific item, with specific cover art on the card.

Unfortunately, some artists who are using SCART™ don't realize that it has been patented. They may have to rethink what they are doing to avoid legal complications. "All artists need to do is give us a call," said James Ord, Director of the eMedia Division for VIBME. "The service is not expensive, and artists and labels can even sign up for a licensing deal if they've already got their own website set up."

The numerous advantages of SCART™ make it an ideal delivery system for both deliberate and impulse buyers. When customers come to the website to download items, they have already made the purchase.

Some customers who are new to the Internet will be drawn to SCART™ because it eliminates the possibility for most types of online identity theft. Buyers may purchase a SCART™ code by using cash, credit card or any form of payment. The consumer does not need to give any personal information over the Internet. Kids are more likely to convince their parents to buy them the particular music or game they want because parents do not have to give over credit card numbers. A specific gift card lets parents give exactly what their child wants and not some dollar amount with no thought behind it.

Where content is age restricted retailers are required to check ID before making a sale. Age verification is handled at the purchase counter possibly reducing liability for web hosts. These retail features of SCART™ make the once wary retail buyer an anonymous Internet customer.

VIBME owns the patent on SCART™ distribution. VIBME is now licensing SCART™ distribution and protecting its intellectual property. VIBME is providing a solution that is protecting children, retailers and content providers, protecting against identity theft and eliminating phishing. By using SCART™ to sell digital downloads at concerts and through bonus tracks with CDs, Internet-savvy artists and recording labels can increase sales and revenues. Licensees like Internet TV networks, feature film studios, music download and VOD services who offer a wide span of content, can now access retail markets for their digital content.

By using SCART™ to sell digital downloads at retail, companies are taking technology to the next level. To secure a SCART™ license, or for more information about VIBME, contact VIBME sales at (888) My-VIBME (698-4263) or visit http://www.VIBME.com.

For media questions or contacts:
Popular Press Media Group (PPMG)
(310) 860-7774
media@ppmg.info.

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For Immediate Release
February 12, 2007

North Carolina Film, "Simple Things," Debuts to 3 Top Awards!

Sweeping International Family Film Festival!

Hollywood, CA (02/12/07) -- North Carolina can be very proud of itself today as a movie that was financed, filmed and partially cast within the State swept the International Family Film Festival, taking home three awards including the coveted "Spirit Award" for the film that captured the true essence of a family film; the "Audience Award" celebrating the film most enjoyed by attending audiences and the "Best Child Actor in a Supporting Role" which was awarded to Aidan Mitchell.

"Simple Things" champions the heart of America; the pulse that resonates through every individual, recognizing that beyond the complexities of life, the simple things are the most important. Through the looking glass of the film, audiences are given a serious, yet very entertaining, bird's eye view of some of the moments that renowned pediatrician Dr. Olson Huff (Lewis Hine Award Recipient) experienced in his career of caring; evoking in many a new awareness and sensitivity to the world around them.

The film stars Cameron Bancroft ("Love and Human Remains," TV's hit series, "24") as Dr. Evan Gibbs, who takes his 10-year-old son, Nate (Aidan Mitchell, FX's "The Riches"), to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina after the sudden death of his wife to cancer to set up a medical clinic in the small town of Dunn's Rock. Through the support of the town's mayor, Terry Hudson (Bellamy Young, "Mission Impossible III") and her daughter, Christina (Channing Nichols, "Six and The City"), Dr. Gibbs and his son discover more than they expect.

Helmed by award-winning director/writer Andrew C. Erin ("Sam's Lake"), under the experienced eye of award-winning Producer Tosca Musk (Musk Entertainment www.muskentertainment.com), "Simple Things" has launched far more than Executive Producer David Huff's North Carolina production company Back 40 Films (www.back40films.com), it has put the spotlight on the vast and valuable motion picture business as being a viable industry for North Carolina. Back 40 Films and Musk Entertainment are teaming up next on "American Racer."

A dedicated and committed cast, including Joshua Leonard ("Blair Witch Project"), Amber Benson ("Buffy: The Vampire Slayer"), Mickey Jones ("Sling Blade"), Melissa Fitzgerald ("West Wing"), Zac Gardner ("Akeelah The Bee") and Edie McClurg ("Ferris Bueller's Day Off"), a beautiful story and a hard-working, skilled crew, "Simple Things" is a return to the true essence of family entertainment, and is poised to capture the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide!

Further information about the film may be found by visiting www.simplethingsthemovie.com or www.ppmg.info