Stage 32 a Game Changer for Independent Film

Since its launch last September, social network Stage32.com has resonated with film, TV and theater creatives. The site — founded by Curt Blakeney and Richard “RB” Botto — has attracted more than 50,000 members in more than 180 countries, catering to an audience that is dependent on strong networking connections. Stage 32 is a vibrant meeting place where actors, directors, screenwriters, producers, crew and others connect year round, around the world —a free virtual network of like-minded individuals who collaborate to promote creative growth in film, television and theater. Whether someone is looking to fund a film, cast talent in a project, find crew, get advice or discuss key industry issues, Stage 32 is designed to connect everyone within the industry: seasoned professionals, motivated newcomers, film students and award-winning talent. “Excelling at your craft is only half the battle,” said Richard Botto, co-founder and CEO of Stage32.com. “Networking is just as important, and we’re helping to accelerate that process.” Stage 32 members include award-winning writers Danny Rubin, Rex Pickett and Doug Richardson, whose “tales from the trenches” have resonated with Stage 32 members. "A good friend and intermediary suggested that I might pen a short blog series for Stage 32,” said Richardson, an American screenwriter best known for writing the box office smash Bad Boys and Die Hard 2. “Imagine my greater surprise that, during the run of the blog, I found myself as enamored by the interaction from the Stage 32 members as the actual writing experience. An entirely new and unexpected voice was injected into the story that I found stimulating as hell. I'm very grateful for the Stage 32 experience and plan to stay involved as the site continues to evolve.” Pickett had a similar experience sharing My Life on Spec: The Writing of Sideways, which outlined Pickett’s incredible journey from concept to the Academy Awards. “The crew at Stage 32 approached me about doing a blog for their new social media website for industry professionals, Stage32.com,” said Pickett, the author of the blockbuster book “Sideways.” “I was impressed. Stage 32 deserves to become the Facebook of the entertainment industry.” About Stage 32 Stage 32 is the social network uniquely populated with the most creative people on Earth. Relevant for both newcomers and seasoned entertainment professionals, Stage 32 is the no-nonsense, professional place to get serious about taking a dream and making it a reality. Best of all, Stage 32 is free to join and can easily be linked to an individual’s Facebook account, giving the user easy access to their existing contacts and colleagues. Stage 32 can be found online at www.Stage32.com.

Marshall Terrill appears in Palm Springs Feb. 13

Author to talk about Steve McQueen

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10:00 PM PST on Saturday, February 2, 2008
By MONIQUE H. HENDERSON
Special to The Press-Enterprise

A journalist and author who has written a best-selling biography on actor Steve McQueen is set to discuss his work during an appearance at the Ingleside Inn in Palm Springs.

Marshall Terrill will speak at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 13 at Melvyn's inside the inn.

The inn is at 200 W. Ramon Road in Palm Springs. Tickets are $35 and reservations are required. The event is part of the inn's "Dinner With ..." series.

Terrill is the author of more than 10 books, including the biography, "Steve McQueen: Portrait of an American Rebel."

In 2006, he published a biography of basketball legend "Pistol" Pete Maravich.

He also is the author of "Elvis: Still Taking Care of Business," which was published in 2007, and "Skywalker: The David Thompson Story."

Terrill also edited several books on subjects including history, baseball and the film and music industry.

He teaches a college course title How to Get Your Book Published.

Terrill, who lives in Tempe, Ariz., with his wife, Zoe, also is a reporter for Tribune Newspapers and does public relations consulting.

His books have been reviewed in publications including People, Cosmopolitan, Playboy, Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, Hollywood Reporter and Readers Digest.

The Ingleside Inn was built as a private residence in 1925, and was converted to an inn in 1935. The inn, which features a classic, old world style, is a Palm Springs Historic Landmark.

Call (760) 325-2323 for tickets or more information.