» Register for GEMS Connecticut » Show Information     Lee Abrams Entity: XM Satellite Radio Title: Senior Vice President and Chief Programming Officer Topic: Mass Media Entertainment Lee joined XM Satellite Radio in 1998 to help create satellite direct radio. During the last 37 years, Lee has brought high ratings and economic success to radio stations in over 200 markets, including 97 of the top 100. In 1993, Newsweek listed Lee as one of America's "100 Cultural Elite" for his contributions to creating modern radio and Radio Ink listed Lee as one of the 75 most important radio figures of all time.   Steve Zuckerman President GEMS, Inc. Global Entertainment and Media Summit Inc For the past twenty eight years, we've created, produced, and implemented over fifty sold-out entertainment industry events, festivals, conferences and expositions. Our contacts within the entertainment industry as well as our advisory board is second to none. While our competitors have faded out of business, we've remained in business. Why? Because it is our commitment to artistic excellence and commercial success that are grounded in integrity, honesty and providing synergy for all involved parties. For those who are interested in our team working with you, we can help you create a dynamic, innovative and highly successful event.   Howard Bloom From 1968 to 1988, Howard Bloom did fieldwork in the world of business and mass media. As the founder and CEO first of Cloud Studio, Inc., then of The Howard Bloom Organization, Ltd., Bloom has worked with companies like Sony, NBC-TV, CBS, Warner Brothers, Paramount Pictures, EMI, ABC, Gulf and Western, MCA/Universal, Manesmann, Polygram, Coca Cola, Pepsi Cola, and Disney. Bloom helped Sony launch its first software operation in the U.S. (Sony Video), helped establish the three films that put the new Disney on the map (Down and Out in Beverly Hills, Ruthless People, and Outrageous Fortune), and advised the strategists putting together a new venture called MTV. Bloom was introduced to contemporary music in 1971 when he was made editor of Circus Magazine and, in the words of a history of rock journalism by former Rolling Stone East Coast editor Chet Flippo, "created a new magazine genre--the heavy metal magazine." Bloom’s clients in public relations and career strategy included Michael Jackson, Prince, Bette Midler, John Mellencamp, Bob Marley, David Byrne, Peter Gabriel, Paul Simon, Billy Joel, Billy Idol, Joan Jett, George Michael, Lionel Richie, Hall & Oates, Kool and the Gang, the Simon & Garfunkel Reunion Tour, the 25th Anniversary of the Beatles Invasion of the United States, Queen, AC/DC, Kiss, Aerosmith, Genesis, Phil Collins, Styx, Supertramp, REO Speedwagon, Joan Armatrading, ZZ Top, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, Run DMC, Amnesty International, Farm Aid, and a small slew of major films from Paramount, Disney, Warner Brothers, and New Line Cinema. A visiting scholar at NYU, Bloom is the author of two books: The Lucifer Principle: A Scientific Expedition Into the Forces of History ("mesmerizing"—The Washington Post) and Global Brain: The Evolution of Mass Mind From The Big Bang to the 21st Century ("reassuring and sobering"—The New Yorker). Bloom is the founder of three nascent fields that shatter disciplinary boundaries—paleopsychology, mass behavior, and omnology. Christopher Boehm, the director of the Jane Goodall Research Institute says, “Howard Bloom should be taking notes on what he’s doing every minute of the day. He is single-handedly creating a scientific revolution.” Gear Magazine has called Bloom "the next Stephen Hawking." Britain’s Channel4 TV has dubbed him the Darwin, Einstein, Isaac Newton, and Sigmund Freud of the 21st Century. And Joseph Chilton Pearce, author of Evolution's End and The Crack in the Cosmic Egg, concludes, "I have finished Howard Bloom's two books, The Lucifer Principle and Global Brain, in that order, and am seriously awed, near overwhelmed by the magnitude of what he has done. I never expected to see, in any form, from any sector, such an accomplishment. I doubt there is a stronger intellect than Bloom's on the planet." Howard Bloom is currently working on his third book, Soul In the Machine: Reinventing Capitalism—A Quick Re-Vision of Western History.   David Marks Musician, Former member of "The Beach Boys" David Marks began his music career in 1962 at the age of 13 when he and the Wilson brothers, Brian, Dennis and Carl and their cousin Mike Love signed a recording contract with Capitol Records as the musical group, The Beach Boys. In spite of his age, David combined his own unique interpretation of boogie-woogie guitar with his surf roots, creating an all new style of driving rhythm guitar which would become a standard in contemporary American music, influencing generations of future guitar players and securing his place in music history. After 2 years and 4 albums which include some of the Beach Boys greatest hits such as Surfin' Safari, Surfin' USA, Surfer Girl, Catch a Wave, Little Deuce Coupe, 409, Shut Down and In My Room, at the age of 15, David walked away from the band at the height of their success. While his time in the band may have been short, the impact those early songs had on the legacy of the Beach Boys and the California sound is undeniable. During his last few months with the Beach Boys late in 1963, David took over a local band, The Jaguars, and the band was renamed David Marks and The Marksmen. The band, with the guidance of Beach Boy PR-man, Russ Regan, began recording a dozen tunes with Marks in the driver seats as songwriter, arranger and producer while engineering was done by Chuck Britz and Ritchie Podolor. In 1964, The Marksmen were signed by Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss themselves as one of the first act on their newly formed A & M Records. The Marksmen released 2 singles and then went on to record a release on the Warner Brothers label. The Marksmen received moderate success in the local California markets during the mid 60's and toured extensively in California during 1964 and 1965 sharing the bill with such bands as Little Richard, Jan and Dean, the Turtles, the Safaris and Eddie and the Showman. David Marks also began working as a studio musician and recorded several projects including joining Glenn Campbell on guitar for former Beach Boy Manager/Dad, Murry Wilson's Sunrays. David also made his debut as a hired songwriter in 1964 when he and Marksmen drummer Mark Groseclose penned "Blue Roses, the B-side to the Ramona King hit, "You Say Pretty Words" also released on Warner Brothers. After the Marksmen disbanded in 1966, David and Mark Groseclose joined Casey Kasem's Band Without a Name with Kasem's cousin, Eddie Haddad. The Band Without a Name acted as a back-up band for many of the singing acts of the day such as Sonny and Cher. David's next band, The Moon, consisted of songwriter Matt Moore and ex-Davie Allen and the Arrows drummer, Larry Brown along with Bassists Andrew Bennett and David Jackson. The band was signed to Liberty Records as a Mike Curb Sidewalk Production on the Imperial Label and received tremendous critical acclaim on both their 1968 LP Without Earth and their 1969 self-titled album. In spite of the Moon's significant airplay on the East Coast, lack of distribution from the failing label led to the short-lived success of the band. The Moon is still a cult favorite among many music collectors and has recently experienced a revival when Revola Record re-released both Moon albums on CD for the first time in 2003. While recording with the Moon, David also recorded on the second album for the songwriting team of Gary Montgomery and Jack Dalton for the Colours. It was during this time that David would meet and begin a 30 year partnership with singer/songwriter Buzz Clifford, who is best known for his 1961 hit "Baby Sittin' Boogie". After The Moon, David decided to take a break from the pop music scene at the age of 21 so he could pursue a childhood dream of studying classical music. In 1969 David was playing with songwriter Warren Zevon and piano player Glenn Crocker. It was during this time that David began to explore his love for classical music and studied briefly with classical guitarist, Vincente Gomez, a protégé of classical legend Andre Segovia. Studying with Gomez inspired Marks and convinced him to relocate to Boston, along with Crocker, to pursue studies at the Berklee School of Music and then to study classical composition at the New England Conservatory with their resident composer. Offers to rejoin the Beach Boys and a scholarship to Cal Arts lured Marks back to the West Coast in 1971. David passed on both offers in pursue of the Blues.   Lowell H. Feuer Mr. Feurer is an experienced entrepreneur, having run divisions of large companies and joint ventures both in the US and overseas. He is currently engaged in the funding and launch of KlikVU Inc, and in the rollup of small, strategic investments for KlikVU. Mr. Feuer advises private and public companies, acts as Director of the National RFID Center in Richardson, Texas, and is a mentor to young technology entrepreneurs at the World?s Greatest Technologies. He has experience in all aspects of deal making and overseeing corporate finance and governance. Primary areas of expertise are: media and telecom, energy and financial services. After BA and MA studies in history and philosophy at the University of Pennsylvania and Hebrew University, Mr. Feuer spent 20 years in industry, as Director of Product Development of a major leather tanning company and President of an international manufacturer of shoes. In 1997 he became a leading producer for Merrill Lynch, acting as a financial consultant. He joined Gruntal & Co in 2000 as First Vice President, and became President and CEO of Global Strategic Alliances in 2001, an investment banking advisory firm. He recently left his position as Managing Director of Prestige Financial Center, Inc. in New York, in order to devote more time to KlikVU Inc, where Lowell serves as CEO. KlikVU is an early-stage service business operating in the intersection of telecom and media, and streams video over all platforms in a best of breed offering.   Dug McGuirk Producer/Engineer Dug's unique past experiences at Cove Studios and on the road as a touring artist have given him tremendous insights to almost every area of the music business. While at Cove Studios, Dug worked under Ric Wake who had a major label deal, publishing division, studios, and a production company developing artists and songwriters such as J-Lo, Marc Anthony, Stabbing Westward, Jessica Simpson, Anastacia, Celion Dion etc. All of these companies were under one roof and Dug was in direct contact with many of the divisions and worked closely with all department heads. Because of the nature of the company he dealt intimately with managers, lawyers, label execs, artists, musicians, publicity, marketing, promotion, manufactures and anybody doing anything in the business. He is very passionate about sharing his experience and expertise with those in search of answers and guidance. He wishes to motivate and inspire by providing some wisdom in a sea of information to those in need.   Milo Sheff Fifteen years after the controversial "Sheff vs O'Neill" school desegregation case, Milo Sheff has emerged from the courtroom to the streets to become the most popular rapper in Connecticut. Starting in 2001, Milo invaded major commercial radio in CT flooding them with promos, drops and songs featured on WZMX, Hot 93.7. Through radio airplay, mix tape appearances, and local performances, the young emcee is receiving statewide exposure. Discography: Released "My Heartbeat", documentary soundtrack Spring 03 Released the single "Last Call" in Spring 03. It became the first local rap song added to WZMX late night rotation. Released "R.I.P. M.S.G" mix tape Summer 03 Released "Life After Sheff" mix tape Fall 03 Released "Gritz On Demand" mix tape Spring 04 Released "The House Party" music video to BET Uncut Spring 04 Released "Sheff Happenz"original album/dvd Summer 04. The project continues to move units in stores and on the Internet. Released the single "Wynd Up" in summer 04' receiving spins on WZMX, WPHH, WKSS, WKCI, KKWD, and WDLT, among others. Sheffs shows and honors include: Voted # 1 hip-hop artist in CT by the Hartford Advocate and was invited to perform in the 2004 Grand Band Slam Headlined the first annual 2004 Hip-Hop Festival at the Riverfront recapture in Hartford CT Opened up the 2002 Jingle Jam at the Hartford Civic Center. Opened up the No More Drama Tour at the Meadows Music Theatre, Hartford CT Opened up the 8701 Evolution Tour at the Meadows Music Theatre, Hartford, CT. In spring of 2003, a documentary was produced on the life of Milo Sheff. The film details the Sheff v O'Neill case and the young emcee's life behind the media spotlight. Proceeding the film, Hartford Mayor Eddie Perez named every May 5th "Milo Sheff Day"   Melissa A. Newton Producer/Manager/Coordinator/Script Supervisor Based in Connecticut, Melissa has been working in motion pictures, television and multimedia for over 15 years. Involved with overseeing all aspects of pre-production through final product, she has worked with a variety of clients from coast to coast, coordinated over 65 Producers from independent offices and assisted in several produced commercials, a television series, music videos, public service announcements and live satellite broadcasts. She also won a 1st place award for an independent film she wrote, directed and produced in 1990.   John Picard The story opens in high school where he did his first ENG shoot at age 16. He never thought twice about what his profession was going to be again. His first internship was with the Diocese of Springfield, for "Reel-to-Real". Picard attended the CT. School of Broadcasting, where he mastered audio editing and producer skills. This school led to his first full-time job in business. He went form one church to the next. This time to the Diocese of Hartford. This was a valuable move. Picard directed a live television program logging many hours on all aspects of the show, During this period of time Picard began started freelancing EFP in local sports. He moved on to the news machine. First at WWLP in Springfield MA. Then to WVIT in Hartford, CT. News helped him to shoot efficiently and edit faster. However he did not enjoy the content of news much. The most influential point in his career happened while working in Hartford. He was recommended by one of my former employers to do freelance ENG work for a sports show in Rhode Island. Professional sports coverage. It was at this point many of his initial dreams came true. He began working with an extremely talented reporter. They became the chief production freelancers for the show. With the combined enthusiasm for what they were creating, they worked ungodly hours, drove to far locations, edited 4 to 5min. packages until the sun came up. But they also both knew that they couldn't buy experience like this. Picard and his associates built relationships with people from boxing, the NBA, NFL, MLB, and many others. TV, shows don't last forever. Neither did this one. Next, Picard shifted focus to creating 'VP Media Productions '. This company is new, but because of prior networking it has already produced "The 2005 New England Patriots Cheerleaders Calendar Shoot", and "A Night To Remember" ( The retirement dinner of 5 time world champion, Vinny Paz) This brings us into the present. Picard have invested money into gear; in the hopes my creativeness and hard work will lead to more clients. And I continue down the unknown road.   Jennifer Monastero She started off as an intern at a small company working on a short film. As the Prop Manager, PA etc... She discovered that she actually enjoyed what she was doing. Shortly thereafter, she decided to quit her day job and work full time writing, producing and editing television commercials- yes, the cheesy ones you see on cable. Those were the days! While Monastero enjoy editing and working a camera, she has always been drawn to writing. Currently, she is working on completing pilot episodes for two shows, one on her own, one with her sister Alison. We are also working on a major documentary, and are in the pre-production stages. Past experience includes camera work, editing, producing, basically a little bit of everything. While the entertainment industry will always be on Monastero's mind, she now pays the bills by way of real estate and mortgages. On the side, she says, "I write, write, write."   K-Dub Since 1997, K-dub has made a major impact in Connecticut. From 1997-2001, he made a huge splash in the college scene attending ECSU. He hosted his own radio show every Thursday night on 90.1 WECS and hosted and founded, "The Nation's wildest college TV Show", Watch Out Now, which still remains to this day as an outlet for college kids to learn Television. In June of 2001, K-dub became the youngest on-air personality at WZMX, Hot 93.7 a position he would hold for nearly four years and running. Furthering his radio career, K-dub created an outlet for CT Hip-hop by starting a local artist segment called "The Saturday Night Showdown". In its first year on the radio, the SHOWDOWN became a success and led to CT's first ever all local concert launching the first annual UNDERGROUND JAM in February of 2005. While being a household name on the radio, K-dub ventured into the music business in the Fall of 2003, co-founding a Independent Record Label call HARSH REALITY ENTERPRISES. Over the last two years, the Indie Label released five projects from their first artist, Milo Sheff. With the help of the label, Milo has become a fixture in CT Hip-Hop through radio play, live shows, and numerous projects released to the public.   Dan Griffin Writer/Producer/Actor/Musician St. Bernard Enterprises/ Enlightened Artists Incorporated Dan Griffin attended the United States Military Academy (West Point) where he was a member of the Corps Squad Gymnastics Team (National Finalist on Pommel Horse at the 89 Nationals). In 1992, Dan was hit by a car and put into a coma for several weeks. After much rehabilitation, he went on to study Theatre Arts and English at Western Connecticut State University. While at WCSU, Dan was a writer for QUEST COMICS, and was published as a freelance writer for several papers and magazines. After WCSU, he left for NYC to pursue acting. He was briefly involved with the TV series CENTRAL PARK WEST before becoming a finalist at the IMTA and moving out to Los Angeles, CA. While in CA, Dan was signed to THE AGENCY and did bit parts in various movies (including GATTACA, KEEPING THE FAITH, and JINGLE ALL THE WAY and was a finalist for the series TOMMY). Dan came back from Hollywood and was lead in THE LAST NIGHT at the Producers Club, and was a re-occurring/featured cadet in Beth Sullivan's LONG GRAY LINE (a series about West Point). It was at this time that Dan plunged full-on into the writing. He wrote the pilots for DESIGN DEFINED, HOME SPIRIT, and Positive TV's EVANDER HOLYFIELD Cartoon Series. Dan is co-creator and writer of THE ARENA, a dramatic TV Series with current interest from a major TV network. He was commissioned by Bollywood Producer Faisal Saif to write the feature SOFIA and has just finished TORCHBEARER, being looked at by Miramax and Lion's Gate. Dan has since written 41 Children's books (including THE ADVENTURES OF MERLIN THE MOUSE due out this year and being looked at for a Cartoon Series by the same name). He has recently written the pilot episode for Denise Lang's BREAKFAST IN NEW ENGLAND series and has had his short film script STAIRWELLS accepted by Skylar Entertainment and directed by Major Lightner. Dan has been the bassist for the Irish rock band THE RUFFIANS, and has many songs and CD's to his credit. He has recently done some recordings with NAYMSAKE before their appearance this summer's spiritual feature.   Harvey Hubbell V Director / Producer / Writer Harvey Hubbell V is an "itinerant filmmaker" - he has shot from the high-rise roofs of Warsaw to the banana boats of Peru. His documentaries have won more than 50 film and video festival awards, including four Emmys. He wrote and directed the multi-award winning comic documentary Electronic Road Film, which received an Emmy for Outstanding Entertainment Program. Loop Dreams, Harvey's first feature-length documentary, won the Gold World Medal for Comedy at The New York Festivals, and, three Emmys for Outstanding Entertainment Program, and Individual Achievement for Directing and also for Program Writing. To support his documentary habit Harvey sometimes works on feature films, including a turn as Columbia Pictures' Liaison for Mr. Deeds, shot on location in New Milford, Connecticut and starring Adam Sandler and Winona Ryder. He shares a 73-acre Avid-equipped farm in Litchfield, Connecticut with his wife, Andie Hubbell, the "2001 Connecticut Filmmaker of the Year", and their 6-year-old daughter, Alexandra. In 2003 the Senate Majority Leader appointed Harv to the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism called "CCT". He was also appointed to the Chairmanship of the Film Committee for CCT.   Steve Washer 8 years with Konica as a video and multimedia producer, formerly Assistant Professor at the University of Hartford in Theatre and Film Production. Award-winning filmmaker Vice-President of Programming for MCA-I CT   Garrison Leykam Garrison Leykam was a producer and A&R executive for London Records, Inc. for 10-years. He worked in several capacities with such artists as The Moody Blues, The Rolling Stones, AL Green, ZZ Top, Dave Edmunds and others. He was President of indie label B-LonG Records and profiled as a songwriter in SongLink International, the premier music industry resource for publishers and songwriters. As a performer, Garrison has heated up some of New York City's hottest showcase venues such as CBGB's, The C-Note, DownTime and Acme Underground. Fox-TV/Channel 61 aired a special news report on Garrison and he rocked a Guitars For Life benefit concert filmed by The Learning Channel. Always close to his singer/songwriter roots, Garrison performed several of his original songs at Nashville's legendary Bluebird Cafe. He was Host & Executive Producer of the reality television program, "Out of Your Comfort Zone" which was nominated for a Creativity Award by the Association for Experiential Education at its 1997 International Conference and is currently producing a television documentary series. Garrison is currently producing and hosting a television documentary.   Seth Zowader Seth Zowader is a graduate of Berklee College of Music's Music Production and Engineering program. He began his career as an audio archivist and engineer for MPL Communications, Inc., (Sir Paul McCartney's music publishing company). While at MPL Communications, Inc., Seth became a member of the production advisement team, that assisted in the creation of McCartney's Grammyâ nominated album "Flaming Pie." Seth was the chief technical advisor/webmaster in the U.S., and was also the mastering engineer for many promotional and commercial releases. He was the studio supervisor for ten recording facilities at Berklee College of Music. Seth was a co-recipient for a local Emmy award for best music for a children's pilot TV show "The Worldly Wise Network". He has worked as a producer/engineer of recordings, commercials and radio programming. Seth is also a published author of music instruction books and an active performing musician.   Sean Taylor Camera Operator/Video Technology As a Video Production graduate from The Art Institute of Philadelphia, Taylor received extensive training in all aspects of Production including Pre and Post. He is proficient in AVID, Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere and Casablanca Non-Linear Editing Systems. He is also proficient in A/B roll, PhotoShop and Pro Tools digital recording system. He has worked on both MAC and PC formats using the above software. In Addition to his education, Taylor attended the Art Institute of Pittsburgh where he completed the Studio 101 program, which involved hands on production for numerous freelance jobs. He has 3 years experience working in Live Broadcasting at Philly TV News located in Center City Philadelphia and 1 year working for Omniplex 2000 Inc. located in Camden NJ. He also worked as a freelance camera operator and editor for Gilliam Jr. Productions.   Liz Koestner Liz has been interested in the entertainment business since she was small. She had a Monday night news spot on Western Connecticut State University's radio station WXCI. Liz is a graduate of Connecticut School of Broadcasting. She currently works part-time on a Saturday morning show on WKHL. Liz also works part-time for WRKI and WDBY as a fill in for news and storm watch. At the moment she is also co-writing a screenplay and looking to get into acting in movies as well as television.   Ryan Broadbin Writing, Directing, Videographer Ryan Broadbin is a senior at Sacred Heart University who is majoring in Media Studies. Ryan is interested in working in the television and film industry, producing innovative reality television shows and a variety of films. He is currently working on a documentary about how the United Food and Commercial Workers is trying to set up unions within Wal-Mart stores.   G. Calvin Berry In 1983 G. Calvin Berry built G. Calvin Berry Productions; in 1991, Peck & Berry Studios; in 1992, Balser & Berry Publishing and in March, 2003, re-launched Vertex Enterprises, LLC. G. Calvin Berry brings 20 years of experience in photography and talent development to Vertex Entertainment, LLC.   BrownHayez BrownHayez is a Hip Hop rap duo hailing from Harlem and Bronx N.Y. The two cousins are a blazing new element in the Hip Hop genre. The best way to describe their style is "Raw Gutter", which means raw talent. They have developed a style that mixes talent and brings an appealing, refreshing sound to the rap scene today. Jonathon Brown, of BrownHayez, was born in the Bronx and grew up in Soundview project. His hard hitting style can be contributed to his tough Bronx up bringing. With influential people like Rek, and Hayez, it wasn't hard for him to develop a music addiction. His love for creative writing helped him to discover his talent in becoming an emcee. Brown's other musical influences varies from KRS ONE, Run Dee MC, and Outkast to Korn and Mudvain. With this type of influence his desire to be different is something he strives for. Jason J. Hayes was born and raised in Harlem. He began his journey with the arts in college where he did everything from having a radio show, to doing rap shows, and graduating college with an art degree. It was soon after that he moved back to New York to pursue his thirst for music. There he met up with friends that shared his love, but it wasn't until he would make an alliance with his cousin Brown that his direction in chasing a rap career would become clear. BrownHayez started in 2001, and together they are knocking down doors to open a new sound that crosses music barriers. Their hard core lyrics and hooks tend to stray from the usual subject matter of their peers which give them an edge in standing out from the typical rap crowd. Since they started, BrownHayez has worked to put together two street volumes that have their unforgettable signature style, Raw Gutter on almost every track. The BrownHayez combination flows so well and gives a high energy performance that is felt. The marksmanship of each line they deliver hits hard with their well put together poems, and ill ass word play. They are currently working on their first full length untilled album that is sure to bring everything they have and so much more.   John O'Brien Co-host, Bax & OBrien Morning Show ROCK 102 Springfield, Mass. John OBrien has been at ROCK 102 since the mid 80's. He started as a part time jock doing weekends, then started doing vacation fill-ins for other shift after several years working at other stations in both the Springfield, Mass. and Hartford, Ct. markets. He graduated from the Ct. School of Broadcasting in Farmington in the late 70's. His first job out of CSB was at WTIC AM where he was the producer of a local overnight talk show. He started at ROCK 102 in 1985 then was moved to the moring show from overnights when the station decided to change morning shows and John would "hang out" for several hours after finishing his shift. Eventually, management decided to offer him a morning show partnership and that is where his morning drive career began. He stayed on doing mornings at ROCK 102 for 23 months working through 3 different partners, who's departures, contrary to popular opinion were through no fault of his own. After almost 2 years he was "let go" by ROCK 102 for reasons that are still not clear to him. Two years later, after ownership of the station had changed he was brought back to co-host the morning show with Jonathan Reynolds in the "Jonathan & OBrien Show". That lasted 3 years before Reynold's decided to return to his home market in Milwaukee. At that point ROCK 102 hired Mike Baxendale, forming the "Bax & OBrien Show" which has been on the air for 10 years. In fact, this year Bax & OBrien are having a year long anniversary celebration. They have consistentl maintained a #1 rating in their target demographic of 25-54 year old adults. In fact, the recent Spring 05 Arbitrn ratings show them more than 2 points ahead of their closest competitor.   Jim Burger Member, Dow Lohnes & Albertson Jim represents technology and consumer electronics companies on intellectual property, communications, and government policy matters. Jim joined the firm's Media, Information and Technology group in January 1997. For nine years before that, Jim was Senior Director in Apple Computer's Law Department; his responsibility included worldwide telecommunications and intellectual property policy. Also, he was General Counsel for Europe and Latin America and responsible for worldwide government affairs. He was Chair of the Information Technology Industry Council's Proprietary Rights Committee. Jim has participated extensively in such complex matters as, DVD content protection, the Secure Digital Music Initiative (SDMI), wireless data communications, the Copy Protection Technical Working Group (CPTWG), as well as representing information technology industry associations and individual IT companies before the FCC in proceedings such as Broadcast Protection, and Cable Plug & Play. Jim recently won FCC Broadcast Protection certification of TiVo's technology in the face of MPAA and NFL opposition and filed an amicus brief in MGM v. Grokster on behalf of Intel. Jim is a Director of the DVD Association. Jim works, speaks, and writes extensively on legal and policy issues arising from the confluence of digital technology, telecommunications, entertainment, intellectual property, and government regulation.   Christina Hurlburt Web Designer / Graphic Artist / Illustrator Hurlburt has been working as a designer for over 5 years in website design, development, Macromedia Flash animation, and video production with an extensive background in graphic design, and illustration.She began as a web designer for a national telecommunications corporation and became the founder of IlluminatedImages.com, an independent web development company catering to businesses across the country. Various clients include; PBS, Nascar, and the United States Marine Corps. She has also worked in video production, producing music videos for local bands and a video biography depicting the ups and downs of a musician's life. She has a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts and a Master's degree in eMedia with a concentration in web and video production.   Robert Cutarella REC Music Group A music industry veteran for over 25 years, Robert began his career as a writer/artist/producer. He produced albums for Mercury, A&M, Columbia and Buddah before beginning a six-year tenure as Director of Talent Acqusition for Chappell Music, where he worked with Eric Clapton, the BeeGees, Pink Floyd, the Police, Elton John, R.E.M., Sammy Cahn, Jule Styne, Doc Pomus, Thom Bell, and Linda Creed. Following his stint at Chappell, Bob became VP of A&R for HME/CBS Records, where he worked with the Fabulous Thunderbirds, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Patrick Simmons (Doobie Brothers), Gino Vanelli, Megaforce Records (Anthrax, Metallica, Raven), John Palumbo and Matt Bianco (Basia). In 1985, he opened his own company, which produced worldwide hits with Celine Dion, Alice Cooper, Jennifer Rush, 38 Special, Deep Purple and more. In 1991, he became East Coast Director at MCA Music, where he had success with Michael Bolton, Jeremy Jordan, Barbra Streisand, and Eternal, whose album reached #2 on the British charts with sales of over 3,000,000 units. His writers ranged from Alan Rich (Whitney Houston), Shep Pettibone (Madonna), and Marcus Miller (Luther Vandross) to Alannis Morrisette, Angie Stone, Jr. Vasquez and Lisa Fisher. He served as a consultant at MPL and Capitol Records for Paul McCartney's album Run Devil Run, and is working closely with Luna Sea Records (Luna Lounge), Louis Levin (Michael Bolton), and Frank DiLeo (Michael Jackson, Prince) on their new discoveries. With over 2000 recorded songs to his name and constant new discoveries like Ivan Matias, Bob is an established and dynamic force in today's popular music business. His most recent production is "Les Paul and Friends" on EMI with GEMS founder, Steve Zuckerman as Associate Producer   Hank Bordowitz Bordowitz Media Werx There are few things Hank Bordowitz hasn't done in the entertainment biz, and lived to tell the tale. His career has taken him to television, radio, records, the web, infinity and beyond. Starting out as a player, Hank worked the bars and dances in North Jersey through High School, touring with a theater company by night while attending classes by day. He came to College armed with a Third Class Radio silence that put him on the air his first week. His edgy work on college radio nearly got him thrown out of school his first Semester. He has since done production work for the late, lamented WEVD, wrote scripts for MJI Broadcasting and currently programs a channel for Music Choice. He graduated to a hot moment as a recording artist for a company that went out of business weeks after he turned in his master. He has subsequently worked on the biz side of things for A&M, Antilles New Directions, Columbia, IRS, Island, PolyGram, RCA/BMG, Atlantic, Intuition, Tuff City and others. He currently teaches the Introduction to the Music Business and Music Journalism courses for the Baruch College CAPS Entertainment Business department. As an editor, Hank has worked with Rock Scene, Metal Mania and Concert Shots magazines, top-kicking 50 issues a year. He edited Interactive Quarterly, the first magazine about Cyberotica -- and takes credit for coining the word. As the managing editor of Wizard, The Guide To Comics, he championed independent comics and bean dip. He served as Director of Editorial Content at MCY.com. He also wrote the bulk of the copy for www.caroleking.com. Hank's work appears in half a dozen books including the forward of the Peanuts Illustrated Songbook. His own books include Bad Moon Rising: The Unauthorized History of Creedence Clearwater Revival, The U2 Reader: A Quarter Century of Commentary, Criticism and Reviews and the forthcoming Bruce Springsteen Scrapbook and Every Little Thing Gonna Be Alright: The Bob Marley Reader due out in the Spring of 2004. Works in progress include Noise of the World: Non-Western Artists In their Own Words and Turning Points of Rock tentatively fall 2004 releases. His work has appeared in hundreds of magazines including Playboy, Southwest Spirit, Spin and Creem. He has written the liner notes for a couple of dozen albums, including the CD release of Blood Sweat and Tears. Hank's television work includes stints with VH-1, the CBS Morning Show, and TV-1 News, Finland. He worked extensively on the PBS show "Spike and Company Do It A Cappella."   Andrew Morrison Andrew Morrison is the founder of Small Business Camp - an entrepreneurial training and marketing services firm. The company delivers an intensive 2-day program that allows the participants to walk-in with just an idea and leave with a marketing plan, public relations strategy, money-making website, direct-mail campaign and 90 days of follow-up coaching. Previously he built a multi-million dollar company by providing innovative direct marketing services to Fortune 500 companies. He was featured in the Wall Street Journal, Entrepreneur Magazine, Crain's Magazine 40 Under 40 and Advertising Age. He also appeared as a "Young Millionaire" on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Andrew is the recipient of the prestigious Young Direct Marketer of the Year Award and serves as a Deacon at the Abyssinian Baptist Church located in the village of Harlem. Aside from his Church activities, he serves on the board of Project Enterprise - a NYC based micro-lending organization. Andrew recently completed his first book entitled, "21 Questions That Can Build Your Business in 90 Days."   Scott Meldrum President/CEO, HypeCouncil As president and CEO of HypeCouncil, Scott Meldrum oversees the development and implementation of online advertising and publicity campaigns for clients in the entertainment and retail industries. Using marketing strategies that go beyond standard industry practices, he delivers innovative online advertising and publicity campaigns on behalf of clients like Electronic Arts, Shell Oil, Sony Entertainment, Disney, RadioShack, Best Buy and ABC Television. Meldrum founded HypeCouncil in 1999 following the success of marketing his own music CD?s online. During the company?s formative years, Meldrum worked with established artists like Jennifer Lopez, as well helping relative unknowns, such as Papa Roach and Avril Lavigne, reach star status. Capitalizing on his experience in marketing music, Meldrum expanded the operation to include online advertising and PR programs for the television, film and video gaming industries. In the six years since founding HypeCoucil, Meldrum has gone from being an indie-rock artist to a well-respected figure in the online marketing community, often called upon for lectures and presentations around the world.   Warren T. Goz, Esq. Warren T. Goz is a corporate, securities, tax and transactional attorney, admitted to the New York and New Jersey bar associations. Over the past 8 years, he has counseled a variety of public and private businesses on their tax planning, transactional structures, mergers and acquisitions ranging in deal size up to 1 billion USD. Warren specializes in deals relating to tangible and intangible property, as well as entertainment finance and production. He is also a litigator who has successfully defended and prosecuted cases valued up to 30 million USD. Warren is a graduate of New York University School of Law where he received an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in Taxation.   Bianca Bezdek, Esq. Bianca Bezdek is a member of the New York, European Union and Czech Republic bar associations, and is a former associate at top global law firms Linklaters and Weil, Gotshal and Manges in Prague, Berlin and London. In 2003, Bezdek & Associates was founded in New York focusing solely on feature film and television production, finance, distribution and related intellectual property matters. Some of her clients have included Paramount, New Line, Universal, Miramax, Warner Bros. and Endemol, for whom she has structured the allocation of over 2 billion USD of international feature film private equity investment. Some of the films she has devised financing models for include: Lord of the Rings 1, 2 & 3, Harry Potter 2, Lara Croft 1 & 2, Paycheck, Rush Hour 2, The Core, Enemy at the Gates, Zoolander, The Fighting Tempations, Marci X, The Wild Thornberries among others. Bianca is also a professor at New York University.   Paul Sacksman Executive Vice-President, InterTech Media (Listenerstation.com) 17 year veteran of Billboard Publications and Former Publisher of Musician Magazine; Creator of the Musicians Guide to Touring and Promotion and the Musicians Atlas Alternative Marketing for todays Musician and Songwriter A brutally honest overview of todays music business and todays alternatives.   Tim Greene Film Producer Tim Greene! Hailing from Philadelphia, this amazingly inventive, young director is making movies on no budget. That's right, zero budget. So forget the old micro-budget standard bearers like El Mariachi and The Blair Witch Project, for Mr. Greene has managed to finance and make his movies for free, relying on a combination of ingenuity, coupons, rebates, tradeoffs, frugality and an infectious optimism which even I found inspiring during the course of this interview. Already on his resume' are such fun flicks as Ya Grandma's a Gangsta, a hilarious parody of rap videos, Raykwan's Cuties, a clever take-off on Charlie's Angels in which a trio of single moms team up to track down the guys who got them pregnant, and Creepin', a comical horror flick which takes place in the 'hood. What I appreciate about his work is that it represents the hip-hop generation from a refreshing perspective, not that relentlessly malevolent one which make you think the ghetto is all guns and ammo. While giving a chance to a cast of veritable unknowns, Tim wears a whole host of hats on the set. He turns into a cameraman, actor, make-up artist, food service caterer, prop man, chauffeur, whatever is needed at each moment to advance the cause. Post-production, he edits the footage and handles the packaging and distribution of the final product, still on limited resources. Remarkably, Tim Greene's micro-budget films are available in the same video stores all across the country offering $100 million Hollywood blockbusters. Tim's 4th feature film, a new G-Rated kid's comedy movie will hit movie screen's in the spring of 2006. check out Tim's website at: www.TimGreeneFilms.com.   Randy Borovsky President Ultra Radio Randy Borovsky graduated in 1981 from Central Connecticut University with a degree in Marketing and Economics. He spend over twenty years in broadcast radio at stations in Connecticut and Massachusetts, working on-air in the mid 1970?s to early 1980?s as DJ and News Director at WNVR AM Waterbury, WHCN FM Hartford and WKPE FM Orleans, MA. On Cape Cod at Cape 104 FM he transitioned to advertising sales, becoming Sales Manager in 1984. From 1986 to 1995 Randy worked in sales and management at WHCN FM in Hartford. In 1995 he became the first Sales Manager for WMRQ FM ? Radio 104. Randy left Radio 104 in 1999 to start Ultra Radio. UltraRadio.com launched in 2001 as one of the country's first locally targeted live staffed Internet Only Radio stations. Operating from storefront studios in downtown New Haven, UltraRadio.com may be the only profitable independent Internet station of its kind in the country.   Gina Gajdosik (Make me) Blush, finalist in the 10th Annual Writer's Network screenplay and fiction competition under the former title "Drive Dangerously, Live Carefully" is Georgina Gajdosik?s fifth screenplay. In 2002 she produced the short film Loved, alone with her husband and partner Peter Gajdosik. The film was based on her first script Malibu, a coming of age story about a British surfer girl and her irresponsible father. The film was shot on location in Edinburgh, Scotland and starred Beth Winslet, younger sister of actress Kate Winslet and their father Roger Winslet. Loved, alone premiered simultaneously at the Los Angeles International Shorts Fest on the West Coast and at Film Fest New Haven on the East coast. It has gone on to screen in a number of major cities in the US, most notably an extended run before the Oscar nominated film Frida. In addition to screenwriting and producing, Gajdosik wrote and directed a film trailer for (Make me) Blush starring actress Kathrina Miccio (The Sopranos, The Forgotten) and Sarah Mucho of the New York based rock band System Noise. Featured in the trailer are Miccio?s original paintings of rock legends which grace the walls of Chris Noth?s, The Cutting Room (Sex in the City, Law and Order). Ms. Gajdosik also co-wrote the original song Give up the Fight featured in the music video trailer with producer Matt Fish and composer Nathan Melsted. She has also worked on independent feature films as a Locations Manager and Scout, most notably Showtime?s 101 Ways (The Things A Girl Will Do To Keep Her Volvo) written and directed by her friend Jennifer B. Katz.   Bobbi "Funkee Boy" Tammaro Producer Bobbi "FunkeeBoy" Tammaro is a songwriter/producer with top 15 international chart credits, as well as, extensive television/film credits and placements. His production company and label have just received a distribution deal thru Sony/RED. Some of his many credits include: Produced "Pure Pleasure" recorded by TADROS hit top 15 Canada. Also, top 40 international chart credits with "Sta Sera" & "Missing It," Written/Produced female vocal group Tenderoni signed to Babyface; featured on the "Soul Food" movie soundtrack. Also, wrote/produced "Precious Moments", "Tell It Like It Is" charted Top-20 Hawaii Written/Produced Leila signed global admin deal with Bug Music. Five songs charted #1 mp3.com, lycos music, broadjam,etc. Ending theme song "If It Feels Good" in the showtime movie "They Call Me Sirr" featuring Michael Clark Duncan; Written/produced Lori Salvatera "Love Is" charted top 10 Hawaii signed a development deal with MCA records. Co-wrote and Produced the KC101.FM Morning Show Theme Song Co-wrote and Produced the KISS95.7FM Morning Show Theme Song. Produced the American Cancer Society theme song "Relay For Life". TV Credits include: Beverly Hills 90210, General Hospital, Sunset Beach, Days of Our Lives, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, The New Love Boat, One Life To Live, The Young & The Restless, Soul Food, All My Children, They Call Me Sirr - Movie featuring Michael Clarke Duncan ("The Green Mile"), It's Like You Know - "Made for TV Movie", plus numerous local broadcasts & independent films.   Tito Batista Producer Tito Batista, established Black Rose Productions Inc. in 1969. He acted as the manager of the 5 musicians that performed the musical cues for the NBC emmy award winning Cosby Show. He also previously procured an international publishing agreement for BMG music publishing Pacific. He was credited with the number one record on Polygram in 1997 with Vivian Chow. Tito Batista has been featured on the cover of the Arts and Leisure section of the New York Times, Newsday Part 2, and still publishes over 2000 titles. He recently produced a song "There Was A Time In America" that was performed by Titus Borges, the lead singer in the recent broadway play, Good Vibrations. He received a letter from Vice President Dick Cheney and Barbara Bush on behalf of President George Bush thanking him for the kind words in support of our American values. Tito Batista is currently seeking new artists with the ability to write original music for the exploitation of their musical careers through the efforts of Black Rose and it's many contacts. He is also seeking the publishing of original copyrighted material for inclusion in it's existing catalog. Our interests are in all genres of music and he does not accept any material not copyrighted through the library of congress. www.BlackRoseProductions.com. Tito Batista is also the president of another production company, know as Fairfield Productions. This company holds an interest on five John Denver Albums, including "John Denver's Greatest hits" and "John Denver and the Muppets" through a private placement memorandum previously registered in New York and New Jersey. Tito also managed the artist "Tori" who had a hit record in the 90's "Full Time Lover", released through Black Rose records and distributed through Reiter Records ltd. Tito Batista is an expert in the fields of publishing, management, production, and in the solicitation of material to major record companies and publishers. He is excited to assist in this conference and can bring knowledge of the business of music to all your participants.   Andrew Baron Andrew Baron is the creator of Rocketboom, a 3 minute online daily video show based in New York City. Rocketboom is a working prototype of creative new media/citizen journalism distributed as moving image over IP. Without need for promotion, utilizing new distribution technologies and methods such as inexpensive hardware and software, RSS, P2P, Creative Commons copyrights, and in general, the Blogosphere, Rocketboom appeals to a growing audience of over 60,000 people a day. With upcoming sites/shows in the works, Rocketboom is building a noncompetitive, independent, world-wide network. In his spare time, Baron creates physical computing installations with sensors and micro-controllers and dreams of wimax for third-world countries.   Paul Nelson Guitarist/Songwriter/Producer Performing with countless worldwide touring acts, Nelson's guitar work has been heard nationally on NBC, WWF, TNN, UPN and on CDs along side today's top musicians. Paul appears as both guitarist and songwriter on Rock legend Johnny Winter's latest Grammy-nominated Virgin/EMI release "I'm A Bluesman".   Roman Jaquez Filmmaker & NYC Indieclub.com Administrator Roman is a NYC based Independent Filmmaker and Music Video Director. He is the Group Leader of NYC's IndieClub.com an online networking community with more than seventy chapters world wide dedicated to bring together Filmmakers, Actors and Crew members. His responsibilities includes organizing networking events and workshops in the areas of interest for actors, directors, producers, cinematographers, editors and more. Roman is a Multimedia & Web Design graduate from the Art Institute of NYC; he also attended at SVA and HVCC. His most resent work includes Amarfis's "Amor Amar" music video, Janet Morla's "Picaflor" music video, Riaz Khan's "Mayray Dil Mian Tayree Yadain" music video, Christine Rose's "Internationally Speaking" documentary, a Tv pilot and two Six Flags commercials to name a few. Roman is schedule to direct two HD features and several music videos in 2006."   John Courtmanche Executive Producer John Courtmanche is an executive producer with Sonalysts media group in Waterford, CT (www.SonalystsMedia.com). He has 17 years experience as a film and media professional, including owning his own production company and working as a producer for television, independent film and news and documentary projects. Highlights of his career include: * Served as head of the state of Connecticut film office; * Worked as a producer and writer on three PBS prime-time specials; * Created and produced a TV comedy pilot for Madison Square Garden Network, with live showcases at Caroline's Comedy Club; * Produced documentary videos for the national conservation group The Trust for Public Land, including Saving Sterling Forest narrated by Bill Moyers; * Produced and marketed productions and events promoting the Special Olympics 1995 World Games, including a PBS prime-time documentary, theme music for ESPN and live concerts; * Wrote and co-directed the indie feature film The Fountain of Death for Plus Entertainment in NY; * Managed national promotions for Fox 20th Television syndication to promote its daytime shows Good Day Live and Ambush Makeover; and * Wrote the script for the UNICEF Snowflake Holiday Benefit Concert in Manhattan, hosted by actors Barry Bostwick and Liv Tyler with an appearance by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Additionally, Courtmanche taught communications and digital production at Marymount Manhattan College and served as a judge for the national Emmy Awards for News and Documentary Programs. He has been a contributing writer to leading industry trade magazines including Daily Variety in L.A., Videography, and PDN Photo District News and has worked as a media business analyst for Connecticut-based consulting firms Peppers and Rogers Group and PhoCusWright. Courtmanche earned his master's degree in Communications and Film Production from NYU. Roman is a NYC based Independent Filmmaker and Music Video Director. He is the Group Leader of NYC's IndieClub.com an online networking community with more than seventy chapters world wide dedicated to bring together Filmmakers, Actors and Crew members. His responsibilities includes organizing networking events and workshops in the areas of interest for actors, directors, producers, cinematographers, editors and more. Roman is a Multimedia & Web Design graduate from the Art Institute of NYC; he also attended at SVA and HVCC. His most resent work includes Amarfis's "Amor Amar" music video, Janet Morla's "Picaflor" music video, Riaz Khan's "Mayray Dil Mian Tayree Yadain" music video, Christine Rose's "Internationally Speaking" documentary, a Tv pilot and two Six Flags commercials to name a few. Roman is schedule to direct two HD features and several music videos in 2006."     Lloyd Kaufman Troma Films In the late 1960's, Kaufman was enrolled at Yale University, diligently working on a respectable degree in Chinese Studies. However, Kaufman was destined for other things. As he explains in his hit book All I Need To Know About Filmmaking I Learned From The Toxic Avenger (published by Penguin Putnam), "At Yale I was placed in a dormitory room with two film fanatics, and I knew everything had irrevocably changed." In fact, Kaufman was infected with a love of movies from which he never recovered. In 1971, Kaufman met his future partner Michael Herz at Yale. The Troma Universe was born in 1974 with a series of highly original, sexy comedies such as Squeeze Play!, Waitress!, and other titles ending with an exclamation point. These movies, independent precursors to such later smash hits as National Lampoon's Animal House and Porky's, did well financially, although Kaufman continued to work on such outside productions as Rocky and Saturday Night Fever. Kaufman's relationship with mainstream Hollywood would not last long. "There were problems," Kaufman said, "as I always wanted to do things my own way and my employers insisted I do things the correct way." Kaufman proved his former employers wrong with his 1984 breakthrough movie, The Toxic Avenger. This tale of a health club mop boy named Melvin who is transformed into a hideously deformed creature of superhuman size and strength struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, demonstrating that there was a large number of people who were interested in seeing things done Kaufman's way. The Toxic Avenger led to an animated television series, "Toxic Crusaders," several different comic book titles (published by Marvel and, most recently, Troma's own independent comic book imprint), and three sequels. The most recent film in the series is Citizen Toxie: The Toxic Avenger Part IV. The success of The Toxic Avenger was followed by a string of commercial and artistic triumphs in a similar vein, blending fantasy, heavy action, comedy, and eroticism in a style that can only be described as "Tromatic". These films, including the Class of Nuke 'Em High trilogy, Sgt. Kabukiman NYPD, and Troma's War, were often ignored or scorned by the intelligentsia of the time but spoke to an entire generation of young people who rejected the pandering, commercial films of the mid-to-late 80's. Some of these Troma fans went on to become filmmakers themselves, including Quentin Tarantino, Kevin Smith, Mike Judge, Peter Jackson, and Trey Parker. Thanks to these admirers, Kaufman has been asked to make cameo appearances in films like Trey Parker's Orgazmo and Eli Roth's Cabin Fever. Lately, Kaufman and the Troma Team have begun to win respect from even their harshest critics. Tromeo & Juliet became a surprise theatrical and critical hit, earning the grand prize at the Fanta Festival in Rome. Kaufman's most recent opus, Terror Firmer, inspired by the book All I Need To Know About Filmmaking I Learned From The Toxic Avenger, played for six months in Los Angeles alone. In addition, Kaufman has been an honored guest at various international film festivals and Troma retrospectives around the world. The San Sebastian Film Festival, the British Film Institute, the Cinematheque Francaise, the American Cinematheque, the Chicago International Film Festival, the UCLA Film Archives, the Tokyo Film Festival, and the Shanghai International Film Festival are just a few of the venues to have showered Kaufman with praise and free booze. In 2003, Kaufman received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Fantasy Film Festival of Amsterdam. In January 2000, Kaufman founded the TromaDance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. Determined to give independent film back to the people, Kaufman established a festival where there is no entry fee to filmmakers to submit their films, nor is there any admission charged to audience members. The TromaDance Film Festival presents a broad spectrum of films and film styles, creating an opportunity for everyone to put their own personal vision on film and have it seen. Kaufman is also a tireless innovator, constantly using new developments in technology to foster the growth of independent art. Troma has a dynamic web presence with Troma.com, TromaDance.com, and the newest site, Toxic Avenger.com. All three sites provide news and entertainment, as well as providing an outlet for Troma to sell videos, DVDs, clothing, Tromabilia, and other products from the Troma Universe directly to their fans. Troma has also been ahead of the curve in DVD production, releasing feature-packed titles since 1997. Kaufman has also earned the respect and trust of his peers in the independent filmmaking community. He has served as Executive Vice Chairman of the American Film Marketing Association (AFMA). Thanks to his vision of independent cinema's future on the Internet, Kaufman was asked to help create and currently chairs AFMA's New Technologies Opportunities Committee. Currently, Kaufman is hard at work on the novelization of The Toxic Avenger, and his latest book, Make Your Own Damn Movie (published by St. Martin's Press) has inspired a series of successful Lloyd Kaufman taught Master Classes at colleges and institutions across the country. In addition, he created 20 half-hour television episodes for England's Channel 4. The series, "Troma's Edge TV," brought UK viewers all the Tromatic superheroes, cutting-edge humor, and great music they've come to expect from Troma movies. Kaufman will again go behind the camera for a satire about the fast-food industry-zombie film, Poultrygeist, currently being developed. On the personal front, Lloyd Kaufman has three daughters - Lily Hayes, Lisbeth and Charlotte. He serves on the Board of Directors of the American Film Marketing Association and Trinity School. His beloved wife of 26 years, Patricia, is the New York State Film Commissioner.   Neal Thomassen Executive Producer, Global Entertainment Media Summit - Connecticut Neal entered the industry in 1992 videotaping skiing/snowboarding videos and pranks caught on tape which later led to selling footage that aired nationally on FOX. While pursuing a BS Degree in Business Administration, Neal helped pay his way through college by working at Media Services for 4 years at Eastern State University. While working for media services, he decided to take some classes to learn how to edit his personal video projects. In 1995, Neal teamed up with Eric Larson and later Tim Thibodeau to create one of the most popular entertainment shows at ECSU which won the student's choice ECTV award as Most Entertaining TV Show for 2 years in a row. The show was called "Life as we know it." This was his first realization of what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. The excitement of a live studio audience with live entertainment mixed with pre-recorded sketch comedy and interview montages was his draw to the entertainment and media industry. After graduating from ESCU, he broke into the industry videotaping weddings, learning the craft of capturing video. From weddings, Neal expanded into freelance work in sports, religion, talk shows, concerts, dance, business, and anything that could be videotaped and edited. Neal was considered the ultimate experience sponge. He did not turn down any job. While bouncing back and fourth between video production and temp work, Neal continued to produce "Life as we know it." Eventually, Neal moved his way up to a network affiliate as a videographer and editor, working as an assistant editor for Lifetime TV on "Weddings of a Lifetime" and then PA at NBC 30 and videographer/editor for WB 20 Crossroads magazine. This leads us up to Neals current job as an all-in-one Producer of the network affiliate program, CT@WORK which airs on NBC PAX every Sunday at 11:30am. While working on CT@WORK, Neal has learned every aspect of creating a weekly show. Neal has been involved in the Global Entertainment Media Summit over the past 4 years, producing networking parties, entertainment shows, and events that bring the industry together while promoting independent artist in film, tv, and music.   David Verdosci Producer of "The Sunshine Road Show." Beginning as an idea to add quality music to the children's music industry, David Verdosci created The Sunshine Road,. His goal was to bring to the genre a dynamic experience to parents and to provide a message of empowerment to children. In five short years, along with his family and co-producer Rhonda Mesenbourg, they turned this idea into numerous awards including a Parent's Choice Award, an Honorable mention in the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, a Featured rating as the "best of Connecticut" by NBC, National distribution through major retail chains such as Strawberries, Coconuts, Specs, FYE, Borders Books and Music (Where their albums have sold out), and into performances at such venues as Sesame Place, The Hartford Civic Center, Six Flags New England, Pfizer, The Aetna Theatre, The Wadsworth Athenaeum and to many more to list. David's unique talents for marketing has gained him and his music international radio airplay. His savvy for creating new opportunities for distribution has helped him to bring children's music to areas in the entertainment industry where it never existed before. David attributes his success and the success of "The Sunshine Road Show" to hard work, perseverance, open mindedness and a believe that as artist's we can help to inspire the world. He is the producer, creator and co-host of "The Sunshine Road" television series that airs weekly on the PAX Network. More information is available at www.thesunshineroad.com.   Roman Jaquez Filmmaker & NYC Indieclub.com Administrator Roman is a NYC based Independent Filmmaker and Music Video Director. He is the Group Leader of NYC's IndieClub.com an online networking community with more than seventy chapters world wide dedicated to bring together Filmmakers, Actors and Crew members. His responsibilities includes organizing networking events and workshops in the areas of interest for actors, directors, producers, cinematographers, editors and more. Roman is a Multimedia & Web Design graduate from the Art Institute of NYC; he also attended at SVA and HVCC. His most resent work includes Amarfis's "Amor Amar" music video, Janet Morla's "Picaflor" music video, Riaz Khan's "Mayray Dil Mian Tayree Yadain" music video, Christine Rose's "Internationally Speaking" documentary, a Tv pilot and two Six Flags commercials to name a few. Roman is schedule to direct two HD features and several music videos in 2006."   Laurie Hodges Founder and President of Cubed Squared Laurie has spent several years consulting to the start up and small business environment. Her resume includes titles and experience that range from Director to Chief Operating Officer of many companies in Massachusetts and Connecticut. Laurie's contributions span market niches that include the Financial, Administrative, Legal, Sales, Entertainment, Health Care and Technology sectors. She has spent several years speaking on many topics in both the academic and corporate circles. Most recently, Laurie left the 'corporate' scene to return to her musical roots. With years of vocal and stage experience under her belt, she has personally sang to audiences in arenas that include Madison Square Garden, Lincoln Center and Yankee Stadium. Cubed Squared was the result of many years of business experience, and a love for the entertainment community being rolled into one company aimed at cultivating relationships and providing opportunities of all kinds to performers everywhere. Founded in the principles of integrity, fairness, ethics and good will -- Cubed Squared has quickly grown and is a haven for artists looking for a respository of respect and possible opportunities The company also specializes in Merchandising and Charitable Effort Planning. The company has a team of 7. Laurie herself holds seats on the boards of several organizations and serves on the organizing committees of many charitable efforts as well. Laurie is a graduate of Boston University with degrees in Business Administration, Marketing and Finance.   Keith Larsen Award winning Producer, Pres. CT Final Cut Pro User Group Keith Larsen has been an award-winning professional in the field of video production for over a decade. While still in college between 1992 and 1994, Keith was hired to produce and direct several professoinal corporate videos. This experience immediately led to several job offers outside the college. Keith spent time at FOX-61 in Hartford before moving onto a job as an editor in Wethersfield. In 1995, Keith accepted a position as Media Production Specialist at Quinnipiac College, and then moved onto Middlesex Community College in the same capacity. Since 1994, he had also been operating as Sleepless Knights Film & Video (formerly) in his off-time. As Sleepless Knights Media, Keith continued to act as an editor, videographer, motion graphics artist and director on numberous corporate projects for Fortune 500 companies. Keith also has written and directed a full length independent feature, as well as several short entertainment pieces that have been recognized worldwide. In 2003, Keith left his job at Middlesex Community College to pursue a career as a freelance Final Cut Pro Editor and Apple Pro Apps Consultant. In addition, Keith is the Founder and President of the Connecticut Final Cut Pro User Group (CTFCPUG), which is a resource for students, hobbiests, and professionals to network and learn about the digital cinema industry. Apple Computer has also named Keith the Official Pro Application Leader in Connecticut.   Alison Monastero Monastero been working in various areas of film and television production for over 5 years. She started out as a production assistant on a short film, and ended up an editor just a few months later with the same company. She has worked from pre-production to post on countless commercials, several music videos, short films, and corporate videos for clients such as Avon and Duracell. She lived for a year and half out in Los Angeles where she worked in post production on two nationally broadcast television shows, and edited on the side. After moving back to Connecticut she worked again doing mostly corporate videos, and decided she would much rather be doing her own thing. "'My own thing' now consists of writing TV scripts and dabbling in screenplays, while searching for people who want to make movies, and have fun doing it!"   Guy Perrotta Guy Perrotta is Co-Producer, Co-Writer and Artistic Director of the PBS film Mystic Voices: The Story of the Pequot War. His goals in the industry are to assist other producers and production companies as Associate Producer, as partner in co-productions, and to provide administrative assistance for upcoming ventures. As a passionate embracer of all the humanities, Guy's professional affiliations reflect his varied interests in art, the social sciences, history and film and television. Guy has served as Director of Promotions and Special Events and juror for various film festivals in the United States. He has also served as Connecticut Salon Coordinator for the Association of Independent Video and Filmmakers (AIVF) and has worked to lobby state and local governments to assign higher priorities to film and television arts. In 1993, he served with the Adult Volunteers in Action: Voluntary Action Center of Mid-Fairfield County (Connecticut), as a member of the Advisory Board. With Haverland Film/Video Productions, New York, he wrote, produced, and directed educational works, including oral histories (Fairfield - The First 350 Years) and test pilots for proposed television series (Two Wiseguys of Verona with Chris LaValle Associates); and created portrait paintings of "Native Americans for Native Faces" exhibition sponsored by the Town of New Canaan, Connecticut. He is a member of the American Association of State and Local History, the International Documentary Association, the Association of Independent Video and Filmmakers, the Arts Council of New Haven and The Society for Visual Anthropology. Guy also is developing a Native American film screening series in conjunction with film festivals in the United States. He is also involved in several conservation and environmental organizations, including the Shark Research Institute, and participates in shark tagging and education for field researchers in New England. His first feature, Mystic Voices, was co-produced by Charles Clemmons and filmed throughout ten states. It was selected to be a two-part series for broadcast throughout PBS stations across the US. He is a frequent presenter for various colleges and universities including Brown and Yale Universities.   Jim Masters CT & NY Television-Radio Host / On-Camera Talent / Spokesperson Correspondent / Reporter / Voice-Over Artist Emcee / Stage Host / Commercial Actor Jim Masters is an-accomplished, in-demand, award-winning broadcast talent with over 20 years of experience in the industry and principal positions on-air and on-camera in the New York and New England markets. From hosting and producing television and radio shows, to on-camera spokesperson roles for corporate videos/industrials and training video , hosting live TV telethons and game show style TV auctions, voice-overs and on-camera roles for commercials, corporate videos and industrials, narration, multi-media work, audio books, TV/Radio news reporting and writing, plus hosting live events, Jim has worked both on-air and in front of the camera, as well as, behind the scenes. Originally from Long Island, New York, Jim Masters has lived in Connecticut for over 15 years . He is a graduate of Long Island University with a Bachelor Of Arts in Visual and Performing Arts and has also received additional training from The Art Of Voice in New York, Edge Studio Voice Design Group, New England Actor's Theatre, John Casablanca's School Of Modeling and Connecticut School of Broadcasting. Jim is easily recognized from his 15 years of On-Camera hosting and spokesperson work on PBS/Connecticut Public Television in Hartford, Connecticut and his 10 years of hosting/producing and marketing "The WELI Home Shopper Show" on Clear Channel's News/Talk 960 WELI New Haven, Connecticut. On PBS/CPTV Jim has had the honor of interviewing numerous celebrities and notables such as: Jim Brickman, John Tesh, Patti Page, French Chef Jacques Pepin, Eva Franchi, The Irish Tenors, Monica Mancini, Michael Amante, Master Gardener Jerry Baker, Dennis De Young of STYX, Motivational Speakers Les Brown, Loretta LaRoche, Dr. Bernie Siegel, Steve Rizzo and many others. Jim received a prestigious "Host Finalist" award from GSN/Game Show Network for his potential "Game Show Host" abilities and in addition, The American Cancer Society "Media Award" for his role as Host of the ACS program, "Cancer Awareness". Jim is also a freelance On-Camera Host/Spokesperson, Voice-Over Artist, Emcee, Correspondent/Reporter, Writer and Commercial Actor. Jim's voice is currently being used for the Time Warner Cable/Circuit City TV spots which are airing in 27 states on Time Warner Cable and is featured in 115 Circuit Stores nationwide. He's also recently appeared in corporate video's for Altria Group/Kraft Foods, General Electric and Pitney Bowes and in the recent Golfer's Warehouse TV commercials airing in New England. Jim is skilled in ad-lib and improvisation, motivational speaking, interviewing, writing, teleprompter, IFB ear prompt, and he welcomes new projects. Jim Masters Communications.   AJ Vittone TV Host/Anchor/Reporter/Sports Producer Sports Page Live   Sheila Van Dyke Comediene/Comedy Show Producer Yankabilly Gone Wild Sheila's comedy routine is a continuious work of art. Her boundless energy and material presented on stage has encouraged hundreds of audience members to live their lives with laughter!   Lisa Gold Y105/WDBY-FM Midday Personality A radio junkie since childhood, Lisa started out doing college radio at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT. She graduated with a B.A. in Mass Communications in 2000. She worked at KC101/WKCI-FM in New Haven as a part-time personality for about two years. She's now the midday personality at Y105/WDBY-FM in Danbury. Lisa is also co-writing a screenplay and itching to get into movies and television. But trust me, you don't ever want to hear her sing!   Ted Maynard Ted is co-owner of the Media Arts Center (www.MediaArtsCenter.net) in Orange, Connecticut. Ted has 20 years experience in training and development with major corporations as both instructor and course developer, and 30 years experience in layout and design. The Media Arts Center offers professional, state-of-the-art video production and editing facilities, DVD & CDROM authoring, disc and tape duplication, nonlinear editing, website & package design, and computer & video classes. Classes are offered Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, After Effects, GoLive, Final Cut Pro, Macromedia Director, Flash, Video Production and Lighting design. Free monthly digital video workshops also take place the first Tuesday of each month. Clients have included: Kodak, Black & Decker, Kraft, Playtex, IBM, Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia, Pepperidge Farms, Yale, Harvard and Wesleyan Universities, Subway, Dymo, Regional Water Authority, ColorTyme, The Pequot Museum, Amistad America, NHL Productions, Ronald McDonald House, Mystic Seaport, Cesar Pelli and Associates, B-D Pharmaceutical, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, The Allman Brothers Band, Lee Lund Studio of Dance, Town Fair Tire, SBC, Comcast, and many, many others.   Bob DeVito Bob DeVito has an extensive background I theater arts. Currently working extensively with the Thomaston Opera House (Thomaston, CT) both on stage and off. He has experience with acting, singing, stage-managing and direction. He has also worked as a camera operator with Clock Tower Productions. When time-off from his full-time job allows, he works as a freelance and casting associate and production assistant for the Brooklyn (NY) based Production Company, "Milky Way Media" which produces the primetime hit Japanese TV show called "Astonishing News!"(aka Goyten News!). He has worked on several commercials and recently worked on "The Producers: The Movie Musical" with Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick as a background player; which he proudly says that makes him SAG Eligible. By day, Bob works for Health Net, Inc. in Shelton, Connecticut as an Access Administration Specialist providing support and administration on Novell, Windows and other applications.   Katrina Ensign Currently, Katrina is a portrait and sports photographer at Art Rich Photography of Berlin and full time art major at CCSU. She freelances for Correlation Productions and A.V.S. Films as a camera operator as well as a production assistant for various television shows visiting the state. Such shows include Jeporady! College Championship 2003, It's a Miracle on PAX tv, Wife Swap for the ABC network, and most recently for Fox Sports, Best Damn Sports Show. Period., filmed at Mohegan Sun Casino, as a wardrobe and art department assistant. Katrina's past 4 years of experience in the entertainment industry started as costumer for a feature-length film from Black Sheep Films, Bedford Springs, filmed in Newport, RI. Since Bedford, Katrina has become skilled in many behind-the-scenes positions such as camera assistant for Altered Ego Entertainment short films, Of Wanderlust and Desert Weeds, Grip/Electric for The Ballard of Innard Lebb, The New Resident, and Charlie's Party, and Key Set PA for Right Foot, Left Foot, shot locally in CT.   Karreem Khybery Khybery has been involved in the entertainment industry for close to 10 years. He has filled numerous shoes behind the scenes. Positions held; P.A., Costumer/Wardrobe, Producer and Photographer to name a few. His passion for the arts started through fashion design in which he received numerous awards. He has worked for the likes of MTV, CBS, and Showtime and worked on a Sundance and Tribeca Film Festival winning film. Now involved in commercial photography Khybery has the chance to pursue his true passion. Working with models, car companies, sports teams and corporate sponsors has given him the opportunity to expand his horizons. he constantly challenges himself with new ways of thinking and hope to gain invaluable experience through freelancing.   Nickimmy Cunninham Nickimmy is a mid-20's southern girl who has been in the fashion industry since birth. She was born to a fashion designing father who shared his love of clothing with her. It was thru him that she learned the art of designing. Nickimmy modeled in her first runway show when she was 15 and continued with that throughout high school and college. In addition to runway modeling Nickimmy is also experienced in print and internet modeling. She has modeled in shows in KY, TN, MD, DC, VA, and New York City. One high profile show she was a part of was for FUBU. The websites she is featured on are www.exquisitebydesign.com and http://www.blackcuties.com. NICKIMMY'S FASHIONS NICKIMMY'S FASHIONS is the creation of Jackie H. Cunningham. He alone designs and tailors each of the artful pieces. He owns a boutique in Lexington, KY where he designs women and men fashions. His specialty is women couture. Jackie's mother taught him the basics by hand, but he taught himself how to use a sewing machine. He sewed his first outfit when he was eleven years old; it was a black and grey pinstripe suit, inspired by "The Count of Monte Cristo". It was the hit of his neighborhood, and by the age of 15 he was sewing for money. At the age of eighteen Jackie started putting on fashion shows throughout his home state of Kentucky. He became pretty popular and started designing and making outfits for singers/groups of the 1960's such as Percy Sledge, Archie Bell and the Drells, Roger Troutman and Zapp, and Bobby Blue Band. Stars of today who he designs for are music producer Seven Aurelious, NBA players Shaun Kemp and Kenny Walker, and famous college basketball coach Rick Pitino. Also, from 1997 -2000 he designed outfits for J. Petermen Fashions. Through hard work and determination, Jackie has built up his clientele throughout Kentucky, Ohio, NY, NJ, and Indiana. There's even a lady in Germany whom he ships outfits to.   Krizta Moon & Mark Visconti Krizta Moon is a lunar sprite that emerges with Spirit & Sassafras! Moon has been performing and recording throughout the Northeast for the past 12 years. Her personality is charismatic and her jovial energy has captivated audiences of all ages. Krizta?s influence?s spin through a prism spectrum of artists that makes it difficult to nail her kite tails down. Some call it Folk, others call it Familiar but she likes to refer to her music as a twilight sensory spice collection. (As she pulls vials from the cupboard, mixing and churning stars, saffron and such) Krizta?s primary instrument is Voice, which has been described as sultry sweet with dreamy grit. Moon is a songwriter accompanying herself on acoustic guitar. Her songs elicit mystical warmth and devious charm. Mark Visconti and Krizta Moon have been writing, performing and recording together for the last 7 years. In April of 2005 Krizta released her first full length CD entitled ?Scratches in Stone?. The first cut of the album ?Dreamers & Warriors? was written for film documentary Loop Dreams and directed by CT?s own Harvey Hubble. This film has won 3 Emmy Awards. Dreamers & Warriors has been getting continuous air play on independent radio stations like WPKN 89.5 and WZBG 97.3. Mark Visconti is not just any other talented guitarist. He?s precise yet organic. Mark?s debut CD entitled ? Spark? has received overwhelming reviews from NY periodicals. Mark has been writing playing and performing for nearly 20 years. Mark holds a Masters degree from SUNY Purchase, NY in Music for Film and has composed and performed his original pieces for several films and Dance companies. Both Visconti & Moon hold a Bachelors degree in Music Therapy from SUNY New Paltz, NY. Musically, Mark weaves ethereal dimensions where he & Krizta meet and manipulate moods like a mysterious sun shower. Visconti?s musical influences are broad ranging from Tool to Michael Hedges. Krizta?s influences range from Bjork to Jeff Buckley. Any way you mix it, Krizta Moon & Mark Visconti are a uniquely aggressive duo. Together, Krizta & Mark have compiled their original compositions and a selection of brilliant cover tunes to spice up an entertaining evening that appeals to a variety of audiences.   Black Robb Black Robb a New York native has been fixture in the world of music and film in New York?s independent scene since his not so distant youth. Seeing the similarities between film, music and events Robb decided to pursue higher learning. Receiving a Degree in Corporate & Cable Communications from the Manhattan Community College at The City Unversity of New York. Soon after bringing his knowledge to Shout NY magazine as the publications Co-Producer of Events. Black Robb has worked on a variety of New York events from the Intel New York Music Festival to past The Global Entertainment & Media Summit event. At present Black Robb is Co-Producer of Film Blitz www.filmblitz.org a film screening event that focused on the need for future filmmakers to expose their work and the need for all part of the entertainment industry to reach out and network. Black Robb is always more onward and upward.   Jonathan Moorehead Jonathan Moorehead's multifaceted career spans over twenty years in production and entertainment. Beginning in professional live theater, where he learned the adage "the show must go on", Jon eventually landed in television and video production. This journey has gained him vast experience as a producer, writer, director, and cameraman. Along the way Jon also worked in concert production on shows for such artists as The Rolling Stones, Elvis Costello, The Oak Ridge Boys, Living Color, Ella Fitzgerald, and many others. His trade show and convention experience includes Kiss Conventions and Beatle Expos in major cities across America. Adept in many facets of marketing, Jon recently produced a full television, radio and CD-Rom campaign for the urban apparel company Contact Sports, which featured rappers Mobb Deep, Eminem protégé DJ Kay Slay, and Black Rob of P Diddy's Bad Boy Records. He also worked on the TV campaign to promote the appearance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in NY's Central Park. As a touring and recording musician, he was a member of Polygram recording artists Blue Law, sharing live concert stages with Edgar Winter, Bo Diddley, War, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, Three Dog Night, .38 Special, Alvin Lee, and a host of others. Jon has also written and produced numerous radio and television jingles in major markets, as well as songs and musical scores for countless educational films, television shows and movies. Comfortable in almost every role in the production arena, Jon brings a sense of fun and enthusiasm to his work. He is capable of overseeing the entire production process from start to finish, often for some of the world's most well known and reputable companies and organizations. His award winning work has won him a reputation of completing projects on time and within budget.   George W. Dassinger Dassinger Creative George W. Dassinger has been running his own public relations/marketing/media management company for over 15 years representing such clients as: FUENTE CIGARS, ZZ TOP (DELTA BLUES MUSEUM - Clarksdale, MS.), SYMBOLIC COLLECTION, supermodel NIKI TAYLOR (for 10 years-including her sponsors Cover Girl, Nokia, Liz Claiborne), TYRA BANKS, LIV TYLER, country group RESTLESS HEART, songstress PATTY LOVELESS, songwriter JOHN PRINE (Grammy winning campaign), IMG MODELS - NEW YORK (7 years) and THE COMPLETE LES MIZ (another Grammy winning campaign) with distinct "news" images, product launches and sales/marketing concepts. Dassinger's unique approach to "public relations and marketing" has provided him with a professional career of 25 years and positions with ROGERS & COWAN (VP - Entertainment/Corporate Division in New York), ELEKTRA RECORDS (VP) and then forming, DASSINGER CREATIVE SERVICES. At ROGERS & COWAN (1978-83) Dassinger rose to a VP position representing a host of entertainment and corporate clients including: BEACH BOYS, ASHFORD & SIMPSON, PINK FLOYD's "The Wall", AEROSMITH, VAN HALEN, WINGS, KENNY ROGERS (music and TV specials), RICK JAMES, TED NUGENT, KEN NORTON, CHICAGO, TAVARES, BEE GEES, CARLIN MUSIC, PAUL WILLIAMS, VICTOR KIAM/REMINGTON PRODUCTS COMPANY, RJR, MOET, TEAM AMERICA, GEORGE FOSTER, AMF's "Heavyhands", TEXAS INSTRUMENTS, GRACELAND's opening, 1982 WORLD'S FAIR/Knoxville, KRONENBORG BEER, MASTER CARD's launch of their "hologram card" and late '70's movie version of "FLASH GORDON". Joining ELEKTRA RECORDS (WEA) as their VP/National Information (1983-86), Dassinger orchestrated the campaigns for the following artists/groups: ANITA BAKER, THE CARS, MOTLEY CRUE, METALLICA, JACKSON BROWNE, SIMPLY RED, THE CURE, THE DOORS, TEDDY PENDERGRASS, LINDA RONSTADT, KEITH SWEAT and the specialized Elektra lp boxed sets (ie. BLEEKER & MacDOUGAL) and their long form videos (ie. DOORS LIVE AT THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL) releases. Most of the above-mentioned projects became multi-platinum releases. Dassinger is also an adjunct professor at WILLIAM PATERSON UNIVERSITY teaching a self-styled/hands-on course for 10 years. Aside from developing a hands-on trendsetting public relations class, Dassinger has succeeded in securing features on "the class" and the university in the NEW YORK TIMES, HERALD NEWS, THE RECORD, MONTCLAIR TIMES and local NJ televised news programs. "I've had quite an on-going career and it's provided me with visits to the White House, extensive travel, celebrity friendships, career accomplishments, awards, a university teaching position, corporate campaign successes and the ability to (give back) assist "fundraising" for charities like: UNICEF, Starlight Foundation, Save The Children, MS, Cystic Fibrosis, CFCF (Cigar Family Charitable Foundation) and United Negro College Fund," Dassinger stated. In the year 2004, DC has broadened its corporate client base and with the downsized music industry, "other client businesses" are being pursued for representation. Currently representing Fuente Cigars, the company's charity for the Dominican Republic, "the Lennon 2005 documentary" and the two independent NJ record companies, DC is developing media avenues, collaborating with other "outside" vendor companies, marketing projects and creating newsworthy media concepts for its clients.   Usher Winslett White Cap Group Usher Winslett, a long-time entertainment industry executive and attorney,is currently president of WhiteCap Group, LLC, a consulting firm focused on media and entertainment companies. Prior to forming WhiteCap, Winslett was Chief Operating Officer of DCN, one of the very few success stories among the slew of new-technology-focused entertainment companies to launch in the late '90s. Under Winslett's leadership, DCN built the world's largest catalog of live music recordings, released 20+ critically and commercially successful CDs, raised millions in venture capital financing, and sustained steady and dramatic revenue growth - all in the post-bubble economy and in the face of the general unraveling of the music business. That success ultimately led to the sale of the company to Dimensional Associates in Q2, 2003. Prior to joining DCN, Winslett was a principal in, and general counsel of, Razor & Tie Entertainment, which he helped build into a thriving multi-faceted media company that included a direct marketing division, a media-buying unit, and a record label with multiple Gold and Platinum releases. Winslett began his career practicing law with the New York firm Thacher Proffitt & Wood. Winslett is a frequently cited authority, and speaker, on the impact of new technologies on the media and entertainment businesses. Interviews with Winslett have been featured in both consumer- and industry-focused publications and broadcasts, including Billboard, Music Connection, Silicon Alley Reporter, Harp Magazine, and the nationally syndicated television show "Audiofile." Winslett is also a regular speaker and panelist at media-industry events, and has been a guest lecturer in both MBA and undergraduate programs at NYU's Stern School of Business and Baruch's Zicklin School of Business. Winslett graduated with honors from Washington & Lee University and New York University Law School. He is married with two children and lives in New York City.   Laurence Singer Rhythm of the Globe An attorney and entrepreneur, Laurence Singer has counseled and advised clients in legal matters, business operations and strategic planning. Mr. Singer specializes in entertainment, media, commercial and corporate law and international business development. He has represented clients in the United States District Court, before the United States Court of Appeals, in petitioning Congress for special legislation, and in matters of international development. His legal background is combined with an in-depth knowledge of the day-to-day workings of the entertainment industry and has assisted in the management of entertainment and media companies. The scope of his experience extends from the packaging of entertainment projects to organizing and managing studio productions and live concerts. In the entertainment and media fields, Mr. Singer has represented musicians, music groups, record companies, recording studios, authors, advertising agencies, commercial photographers, radio, television and film talent, film and video production companies and theatrical productions. Most recently he has worked as a consultant ZYX Music for publishing operations in the United States and for WorldSpace, a satellite radio company, advising WorldSpace on the development of its world music channels. In 1994 Mr. Singer founded and managed Global Beat Media Corporation, a record company. For Global Beat he supervised and directed all aspects of the Company's operations, encompassing the preparation of business plans, drafting and negotiation of contracts, graphic design and corporate identity, selection of artists, coordination of production projects and implementation of marketing and promotion strategies. Mr. Singer also is the founder and Chairman of Rhythms of the Globe. Rhythms of the Globe is a website whose theme is evolving lifestyles for the 21st century as reflected in music, art, fashion, culture, spirituality, and health. Mr. Singer has written books and articles on entertainment law, copyright and trademark matters, and contract negotiation. He has lectured on these subjects at The Georgetown University Law Center, at seminars sponsored by The Bar Association of the District of Columbia and at international conferences.   J. Ryan Ondriezek With The Band Though only 19 years old, Ryan has had quite a lot of experience in the video field. Ryan first started doing video work when he was 14, learning traditional editing skills using linear editing systems. At the age of 17, he started gaining access and filming musical performances featuring mainstream bands through record labels on a television program called "Plugged TV." After the show dissolved, Ryan and his fellow crew members who wanted to continue the show, were left with absolutely nothing. Since then, Ryan has been the driving force behind the show, "With The Band." Not only has he built up his elaborate list of record label and network contacts, he films, co-hosts, and edits the television program. He also does much of the photography found on the show's webpage, www.WithTheBandTV.com, which he also created and mediates. With The Band has attracted media coverage from several newspapers including the Record Journal, Southington Citizen, and Southington Observer. Ryan is currently a student at CCSU taking general studies and plans to transfer to a film school, Fall semester 2006. His recent projects include working as Production Assistant for clients such as UCONN Health Center and Opticare commercials, as well as the Proto Hand Tools training video (references available). Ryan aspires to be a Film and Video director after college. He plans to keep his roots with the music industry and direct music videos for mainstream and upcoming artists but also plans to direct feature films.   Jeff Greenfield VP, 1st Approach As Executive Vice President of 1st Approach, Jeff leads all product placement and cross-promotion negotiations between clients and entertainment properties in television, film, music, and most recently in video games. Asked by the Emmy's (Academy of Television Arts & Sciences) to participate in a closed-door panel discussion on product placement with David Lyle, president of Fremantle Media (American Idol), and Mark Burnett, Jeff was one of the two product placement experts asked to participate in the closed-door panel for the Emmy's. As editor of Product Placement News (http://www.productplacement.biz), Jeff details trends in product placement for brands and how to better utilize product placement as a tool for increasing sales and brand awareness. Jeff is also the publisher of Branded Entertainment Monthly, a joint effort with VNU Media, the publishers of the Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Ad Week and Media Week. Also an expert in Internet marketing and integration, Jeff's team launched the anti-depressant drug Celexa for Forest Laboratories on the Internet.growing traffic from 10,000 visitors per month to over 700,000 visitors per month in five month's time using the most powerful form of Internet marketing-organic search. Forest saw sales increase $200+ million during that same period. Among his clients are: Hershey Foods, Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Reckitt Benckiser, Doyle Publishing, Sony BMG, Merchant Media, Lifewaves Intl, Plum Creek Timber, Permission Interactive, Wright Stuff Management, Body by Jake, Tristarr, Black & Decker, Army National Guard, Sucrets, Echostar, Adrenaline TV, Hollywood Poker and Music For A Cause. Jeff is an accomplished speaker and former board member of the Yankee chapter of Meeting Planners International and is regularly featured in both print (Brand Week, The Washington Post, Emmy Magazine, Wired, Hollywood Reporter, Investor's Business Daily, etc.) and broadcast media (ABC, CBS, CNET, CNN).   Ken Simon Executive Producer Ken Simon helped to invent the modern alternative newsweekly when he founded The Syracuse New Times. It is now one of the oldest alternative newspapers in the country. Simon led the weekly for 11 years as it gained regional prominence for its coverage of arts and entertainment, media, business and politics. The Syracuse paper and another weekly founded by Simon, The Ithaca New Times, have received hundreds of awards for journalistic excellence. After selling the newspapers, Simon worked as an editorial and publishing consultant for a wide range of companies and organizations, including the National Consumer Cooperative Bank, the Connecticut Commission on the Arts, the Connecticut Film Commission, and United Technologies Corporation. During that time he wrote a weekly newspaper series on the legacy of urban renewal in his hometown that won the Amos Tuck/Champion Award for Economic Understanding. He also authored The New England Handcraft Catalog (Globe Pequot Press), a widely acclaimed book on leading New England artisans and their work. Since starting SimonPure Productions, Ken Simon has produced, written and directed numerous television programs, including documentaries, entertainment programs, and corporate video. Programs include Colt: Legend & Legacy, a biography of gun manufacturer Samuel Colt; Left to Die, the story of the Navy’s scandalous loss during World War II of the USS Juneau and its crew; Schemitzun!, portraying the country’s biggest celebration of Native American music and dance; USS Nautilus, on the first nuclear sub and its role in both the Cold War and civilian nuclear power. and The Mark of Uncas, an HDTV documentary on the history of the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut. He also produced the PBS pledge concerts Carole King: A New Colour In The Tapestry and A Tribute To Harry Chapin and was post-production producer for PBS of The Eagles: Hell Freezes Over. Simon has also created many programs broadcast statewide on Connecticut commercial and public television stations, including eight documentaries in The Connecticut Experience series, which has been recognized by the Federation of State Humanities Councils as the best state humanities project in the nation. His programs have won many regional and national awards, including three Emmy awards, 17 Emmy nominations and the American Bar Association Silver Gavel for Legal Reporting. He is also the developer of PhoneZone, a software management system for regional theaters. The groundbreaking program evolved from Simon's longtime marketing consultancy for non-profit organizations. In the 1980s, Simon cofounded the Down on the Farm contemporary craft gallery on his family's old farm in Connecticut   Keith Alan Game Show Mania Keith just reached his 30th year working within the disc jockey industry. As a 1975 graduate of the Connecticut School of Broadcasting, Hartford, CT, he landed his first job at the 'Dial-Tone Discotech'. After one year, he worked his way up to program director for three of the company's night clubs. After leaving the club (thanks to the liquor commission), he rolled over to the roller skating world for a few years, training the new DJ's for the rink, when one of the employees asked him to "DJ their wedding". That was 1983 and he was hooked! After 10 years as a part-time DJ, working a full-time job with Coca-Cola, raising two kids with my wife, plus a few other little business ventures, time at home was becoming less and less. Something had to give. That something was the sure job, with benefits and 14 years invested, that's right, he left Coca-Cola!! Since that day, August 19, 1993, there has been no turning back. By 1997, Keith was well established in the mobile disc jockey industry and he competed in for the "DJ of the Year" title in Atlantic City. He lost to one of the industry's best performer's, Adam Weitz, but he did manage to take home "Best New Dance 1997". That in turn, lead to Keith being selected DJ Times "Mobile of the Month December 1997". Keith was then invited to speak in Las Vegas for the Mobile Beat Show on three separate occasions, covering such topics as Wedding and Bridal Shows. Mobile Beat magazine the selected him one of the first three "DJ All-Stars" in 2000 for their new All-Star feature. In 1998, he was also invited to speak at the first Mid-America DJ Conference in Louisville, KY. Keith has been a member of the Connecticut Professional Mobile Disc Jockey Association since 1995, (C.P.D.A.), and is currently serving a second term as Vice-President. In 2005, joined the Professional Disc Jockey Association of New England (P.D.J.N.E.) and has been a member of the National Association of Mobile Entertainers (N.A.M.E.). Keith is at the "Endorsed Professional Entertainer" level of membership and has just been nominated to run for President of N.A.M.E.   Abraham Roofeh Writer, Director and Producer Writer, Director and Producer, Abraham Roofeh is following in the same footsteps as other well known NYU alumni that have come before him. As a promising young director right out of college Abraham began his career as an assistant director on music videos for one of Hip Hops most seasoned directors. Shortly after proving himself as someone with exceptional skill in his field, Abraham gained exclusive representation by MHN Management. Soon after Abraham began collaborating on videos as well as developing and writing feature films. Through his representation with MHN Management Abraham was able to obtain talent and financi