(NewsUSA) – There’s no business like show business, so goes the saying, and Hollywood understands just how true that is.

In fact, the world of media is converging, as actors and actresses aspire to be rock stars, and rock starts seek to be in the movies.

Since a great deal of money can be made by cross marketing, Seven Arts Entertainment, Inc. has acquired Big Jake Music, an indie music label based in New York.

For the Los Angeles-based independent motion picture production and distribution company, the acquisition was simply the next logical step, according to Peter Hoffman, CEO of Seven Arts.

“Major record labels have signficantly higher overhead and record production costs than independent labels,” said Hoffman. “By combining our efforts, both Seven Arts and Big Jake can focus on increasing revenue share and profits in our respective areas of expertise.”

Currently, Seven Arts has produced 18 films and acquired 25 others, with its most recent endeavor a large-budget film titled “Neuromancer.” With its latest purchase of Big Jake Music, the company believes it has now fully rounded out its business model.

According to industry sources, integrating several media of entertainment has been around for several years and is certainly the wave of the future.

To this end, it appears likely that entertainment companies will continue to expand to other markets through acquisitions and alliances with what some might consider unlikely bed fellows.

Indeed, with the explosion of cable networks, digital distribution for music, movie and television content, and the existence of countless niches, it would seem that entertainment companies would be remiss if they didn’t take advantage of this potentially lucrative revenue stream.

“Through digital distribution, we can distribute movies and music directly to our fans and customers,” said Hoffman.

For more information, visit www.7artspictures.com and www.bigjakemusic.com.

(NewsUSA) – The film industry has the ability to adapt like no other, weaving social media and viral videos into marketing campaigns with ease and — more importantly — success by way of dollar signs.

Most of Hollywood’s social media marketing is meant to promote new films, new trailers and create overall hype, but viral media can go beyond that. Paramount Studio used Facebook and Eventful to determine what specific cities had an interest in “Paranormal Activity.” The horror flick had a budget of less than $15,000, yet it grossed more than $150 million in theaters because potential fans requested enough local screenings for it to be widely released.

Social media is viral in nature, and the added use of sites like YouTube and Reddit just means videos and clips infect more viewers.

“You can target interest, advertise new releases and start an Internet buzz to increase ticket sales. Disney, Pixar and Twentieth Century Fox have used viral video campaigns for ‘Toy Story 3′ and ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes.’ The ‘Ape With AK-47′ YouTube video was a part of a promotional series for the new film featuring ‘real apes.’ It got over 20 million views! Now talk about starting an online conversation,” says Peter Hoffman, CEO of Seven Arts Entertainment, another studio highlighting its latest release on Facebook.

Actresses Sheena Lee and Simona Fusco, from the hit-comedy, “The Pool Boys,” turned-up the heat on Facebook when they did an online Q&A session just before Valentine’s Day. Fans got to ask questions and the ladies answered in real-time and invited their fans to join in the conversation.

The chat session is in advance of the upcoming release of “The Pool Boys” on HBO this spring. The actresses created their own YouTube video clips of them hanging by their pool and on the way to the gym, and had so much fun. In fact, lucky winners who joined the chat and answered trivia questions about “The Pool Boys” won autographed DVDs of the movie, courtesy of Seven Arts Entertainment, Entertainment One, and RGM. Look for the video clips on www.youtube.com/7artspictures and learn more about the movie at www.thepoolboysmovie.com.

“The Pool Boys” is available on Blu-Ray and DVD. To see examples of viral videos in two separate marketing efforts, check out YouTube’s “Lots-o’-Huggin’ Bear Commercial (circa 1983)” or “Ape With AK-47.”

A GREAT PLACE TO BUY PORK IN RALEIGH NC

Lots of people all over the USA just love a great pork steak,Country ham, center cut pork-chops.
For last 15 years I would shop at my local grocery store, and be very disappointed at the
quality and value of what you get in those store packed containers of meat.

A good pork chops that’s not too thin, not too thick, not too much fat and not a lot of bone.
That’s not asking too much, but after shopping at the grocery stores and seeing the nicely
packaged packs of pork on display at the meat counter, and buying and serving to the family
for so long and just dealing with the fact that in each package of 5 to 10 pounds 1/3 to 1/2 of the pork is fat, bone and mixed lean, fat, that looks like throw away scraps.

We went to 4 of the major grocery supermarkets in Raleigh and surrounding area’s and purchased 2 packages of pork chops about 7 to 10 pounds per package, from each store,
we found that all four stores was doing the same thing. Each package had the top of the package displayed very nice, the meat looked great through the plastic wrap but under the top layer was, what my sister calls, “scraps for dogs food” not what you want to eat.

Each package had only 1/2 to 2/3 of edible meat in them, this is a practice that’s been happening for years, and it could be an industry practice across the board.

Well what can you do? Write you grocery store, call your consumer BBB, your local government, complain to the USDA or don’t shop that store.

I found a place in Raleigh NC, at the North Carolina State Farmers Market.

PORK KING, Nahunta Pork Center (919) 242-4735

The State Farmers Market is conveniently located on I-40 and Lake Wheeler Road, exit 297. Covering 75 acres, the modern facility provides up to 225,000 square feet of covered, climate controlled, all season retail and wholesale spaces.

Also Find Handmade Crafts At This Same Market.

Sell Your Handi-Crafts Online Click Here!
WOODEN BIRDHOUSES THE GREEN WAY!

(NAPSI)-Often, the lessons we learn the best are those we learn while doing something we love. That’s why getting a child involved in a hobby such as model railroading, radio control planes and cars or model kit building can be the first steps to acquiring the skills necessary to fill the high-paying jobs in tomorrow’s industries.

This is good news, since the U.S. Department of Labor reports that the United States will enjoy a near 14 percent growth rate in jobs in the areas of installing and repairing various kinds of equipment. It’s estimated that 40 percent of this growth will be in auto mechanics and general repair services. The refrigeration, air-conditioning and heating installation industries are expected to grow the fastest.

The downside is there will not be enough people in the U.S. to fill those positions.

You can learn about the world of hobbies and more at www.myhobbyfun.com.

Got a craft business idea you think could earn you extra income? Read how other craft artists have profited from James Dillehay’s craft business guides…..

“We couldn’t have imagined how much of an impact James Dillehay’s advice would make on our business. We thought after perfecting our product everything would just fall into place, but it didn’t until we started working with his suggestions. To our delight we are seeing results on a faster and larger scale than we expected in such a short period of time.” ~ Ken Kobrick & Angela Greene, www.Passchal.com, featured on the Today Show

“Since reading your books, I have implemented many of the ideas. I am now happy to report that I have had some surprising success here in Santa Fe. My hang cards, booth design, and even my products themselves have been changed by your books. I have only been there 5 partial days and have sold about 4 times what I sold in the equivalent time last year. I changed the color of the walls, the height of the tables, the displays, the hang cards, the pricing and more. So, IT WORKS!” ~ Julie Anderson, CostumeSalon.com

“After reading his books, my business took on a new life. I changed my product slightly and the response was remarkable! My first order was triple what I had planned for, and other orders are pouring in! I continue to look to James for inspiration and I love his approach. Because of the techniques I learned from him, my business is thriving.” ~ Cathy Marble, Chamisa Hill Designs

Ready to increase your craft sales and profits? Just click here to learn more about our craft business guides. Click Here

Promote Your Crafts Here!
And Here Also!

(NAPSI)-Difficult times can call for crafty measures. Providing an affordable escape, crafting has evolved into a fashion-forward pastime for all ages. In fact, a recent survey by the Craft & Hobby Association revealed that 56 percent of U.S. households have worked on at least one craft project during the past year; a rate that’s remained consistent for the past three years.

What kinds of craft projects have captured the hands and hearts of Americans? The same survey reveals that scrapbooking, home decor projects and woodworking top the list. Other popular hobbies include quilting, jewelry making, knitting, art and drawing. As more and more Americans discover the art of the handmade and the satisfaction it can bring, some are even turning their artisanal passions into profitable side businesses.

Creating Space

You can set up “shop” in your own home by designating a separate space to handle all your crafting needs. Serious enthusiasts can consider dedicating an entire room–attic, garage or an extra bedroom–to their passion. If you don’t have the space, you may choose to convert an extra closet into your own “craftastic” workstation to get the creative juices flowing.

Getting Organized

Once you’ve selected the space, make sure it’s properly equipped. Include a workstation or desk large enough to handle your craft projects and hang up a corkboard to pin design ideas and inspirations for quick comparisons. Keep yourself organized by adding shelving and adequate storage space for tools, paintbrushes or other accessories.

For example, adjustable and ventilated shelving such as ClosetMaid® ShelfTrack™ can easily be installed on the wall or in a closet to keep supplies like fabrics, paper, canvases, paint or varnishes within arm’s reach. Colorful ribbons and tape can slide onto closet rods for easy access, while buttons, clasps and other small objects can be kept in clear jars of varying sizes. Display your how-to books on the shelves and place yarn in baskets or pull-out wire or fabric drawers. Finally, a pegboard can be fashioned for color-coordinated thread or small-tool storage.

Learn More

To find out how you can create your own unique storage solutions, visit www.closetmaid.com or call (800) 874-0008.

Sell Your Crafts Online

Free Classifieds for Garner NC

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(NAPSI)-All that glitters is golden this holiday season-whether it’s delicate jewelry or sparkling ways to make your home more festive. It can also be a gift that’s easier to make than you might imagine. Jo-Ann Craft and Fabric Stores offer all the basic materials and online instructions for making a variety of one-of-a-kind jewelry gifts.

In just a few hours and with some basic jewelry-making tools, you can make this season’s must-have lustrous pearl bracelet.

Directions:

1. Join 5 pairs of Flower Connectors with 3 silver 5mm round jump rings.

2. Attach a lobster clasp to ending of Flower Connectors with 2 jump rings.

3. To create dangle, slide one 8mm Pearl onto a headpin and form a simple loop. Repeat 9 times.

4. Create dangle by sliding one Pearl Drop on a headpin and form a simple loop. Repeat 9 times.

5. Attach 2 Pearl Drop dangles and two 8mm Pearl dangles to middle connecting jump rings, 2 dangles on each side.

6. Repeat step 5, placing 4 dangles between all Flower Connectors and between last connector and lobster clasp.

Finish this fabulous look with a set of matching earrings. Log on to Joann.com/projects for complete instructions.

Bejeweled items such as wineglass charms and napkin rings can add some extra sparkle to any home for the holidays-especially when created with beautiful Czech beads.

Directions:

1. Cut 4” of 16-gauge craft wire. Bend the wire into S shape with one ¼” in diameter and the other end 1” in diameter. Close smaller end. Leave the larger end open ½”.

2. Cut 6” of 20-gauge wire. Tightly loop the middle of the wire around the bottom of the small end of the S-shaped wire. Thread each hole of a button through the wires. Twist the wires together twice to secure the button in place.

3. Thread Czech glass e-beads and bright acrylic miracle beads in a varied pattern. Loop the wires back through each other to secure. To finish the ends, cut wire to 1” and create a swirl with pliers. Add pieces of wire, beads and swirls as desired.

For more crafty ideas, visit www.joann.com. The site offers instructions on necklaces, earrings, jeweled picks and many more handmade holiday gifts.

Got a craft business idea you think could earn you extra income? Read how other craft artists have profited from James Dillehay’s craft business guides…..

“We couldn’t have imagined how much of an impact James Dillehay’s advice would make on our business. We thought after perfecting our product everything would just fall into place, but it didn’t until we started working with his suggestions. To our delight we are seeing results on a faster and larger scale than we expected in such a short period of time.” ~ Ken Kobrick & Angela Greene, www.Passchal.com, featured on the Today Show

“Since reading your books, I have implemented many of the ideas. I am now happy to report that I have had some surprising success here in Santa Fe. My hang cards, booth design, and even my products themselves have been changed by your books. I have only been there 5 partial days and have sold about 4 times what I sold in the equivalent time last year. I changed the color of the walls, the height of the tables, the displays, the hang cards, the pricing and more. So, IT WORKS!” ~ Julie Anderson, CostumeSalon.com

“After reading his books, my business took on a new life. I changed my product slightly and the response was remarkable! My first order was triple what I had planned for, and other orders are pouring in! I continue to look to James for inspiration and I love his approach. Because of the techniques I learned from him, my business is thriving.” ~ Cathy Marble, Chamisa Hill Designs

Ready to increase your craft sales and profits? Just click here to learn more about our craft business guides. Click Here

Wooden handcrafted Bird Houses & Bird Feeders In Raleigh NC

Promote your products and services in Wake County NC Free!

Six North Carolinians are being honored with the highest civilian award the state bestows.

The six will receive the North Carolina Award on Thursday at the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh.

Among those being honored are Winston-Salem attorney Mike Leonard; High Point poet and author Carole Boston Weatherford; Greenville artist and teacher Robert Ebendorf; and Asheville painter and sculptor Donald Sultan.

Also being recognized are Margaret S. Newman of Winston-Salem, chairman of the board of directors of the N.C. Center for Nonprofits; and F. Ivy Carroll, a scientist in the field of medicinal chemistry.

The North Carolina Awards were created by the General Assembly in 1961 and have been presented annually since 1964. It recognizes contributions to the state and nation in fine arts, literature, public service and science.

Source:MYNC.COM

City5nc Free Premium Business Listing

NAPSI)-Men and women who do good rarely seek the spotlight. But one wood-finishing company would like to honor them with its 2010 Community Craftsman Awards.

Past winners include groups and individuals who built and donated wooden holiday toys, high-school students who built a new house for a low-income family, and a former homeless man who now mentors at-risk youths at his furniture repair and refinishing business.

Entry is open to anyone who “does good with wood” by engaging in activities that involve wood finishing. Prizes include cash grants of up to $5,000, a supply of Minwax products, and a consultation with DIY expert and author Bruce Johnson.

The submissions deadline is Dec. 31, 2010. Send a summary of the project to Minwax Community Craftsman Award, c/o Brushfire, Inc., 2 Wing Drive, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927. Visit www.minwax.com for more information.

Birdhouses and Bird-Feeders Handcrafted In Raleigh NC

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The Cary Town Council adopted a $348 million budget Thursday that keeps the property tax rate unchanged at 33 cents per $100 valuation and holds the residential garbage, recycling and yard waste fees the same at $14 per month.

The total operating budget is a modest 3.7 percent higher than its Fiscal Year 2010 predecessor, which was adopted last June.

Highlights of the adopted budget:

$128 million for the State-mandated Western Wake Regional Wastewater Management Facilities (WWRWMF), which will allow Cary, Morrisville, Apex and Holly Springs to comply with the State’s requirement to return water to the Cape Fear River Basin.
It also reserves $2.7 million for street improvements and other transportation initiatives, $3 million for fire and $700,000 for park renovations and $2.8 million for general government including $700,000 for open space.

The addition of 12 new positions, four of which will be needed toward the end of the fiscal year for the new Cary Community Arts Center, which is expected to open in late Spring 2011. Three police officers will be hired to begin developing a new neighborhood crime prevention program as well as one school resource for the new Mills Park Middle School. With the adoption of the budget, 31.25 vacant positions will be eliminated, saving the Town about $1.5 million next year. Town staff will be reduced to 1,140.375 full-time equivalents, or about 8.1 staff members for each 1,000 Cary residents, which is one of the lowest citizen to staff ratios for a large community in North Carolina. Read More:Wake.MyNC.Com

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CARY — The Cary Jaycees held their 2nd annual Amateur Photo Contest in conjunction with Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festival. Any adult (19 & older) or youth (18 & under) could submit two photos in the following categories: People, Critters of Nature, Landscape and Town of Cary. There were 103 photo entered into the contest. All photos were displayed at the Boat House during Spring Daze on Saturday, April 24.

The winners in Youth Landscape were 1st place Savannah Leigh Thorne, 2nd Zoe Groves, and 3rd Callaway King. Adult Landscape winners were 1st place Scott Simerly, 2nd place Frank Everitt, and 3rd place Katrina Formosa. The category for Adult Town of Cary winners were 1st place Felicia Moore, 2nd Karen Bograd, and 3rd Katrina Formosa. Youth People winners were 1st place Mary Mudd, 2nd place Zoe Groves, and 3rd place Evie Fordham and Adult People 1st place Anna Beauchamp, 2nd place Elizabeth Adelski, and 3rd place Mary Ward Boerner. Adult Critters of Nature the winners were 1st place Donna Panabaker, 2nd Richard Stickney JR, and 3rd Melissa Van Wey.

The Best of Show photo was awarded to Donna Panabaker. The Cary Jaycees also did a People’s Choice award during Spring Daze and those prizes were awarded to Michaela Anglin (Youth Landscape) and Karl Fisher (Adult Landscape).

Read More:CarolinaNewsWire