MAPLE AVE NEWS ARCHIVE…
MAPLE AVE Series Makes LA Debut!
The Emmy Nominated Series Now Airing on KLCS-PBS
ATT: LOS ANGELES VIEWERS: PBS Affiliate, KLCS is now airing OutreachArts' ground-breaking teen drama series, MAPLE AVE every Sunday afternoon @ 3PM (PST) through December 2nd! And, yes, in case you were wondering,
WE LOVE LA!!
'AFTER I'M GONE' WINS ACCOLADE AWARD!
MAPLE AVE teen suicide drama honored at prestigious film competition
OutreachArts has just won a prestigious Accolade Award in the Contemporary Issues/Awareness Raising category for their teen suicide awareness drama,'After I'm Gone'! The 9th episode in the Award-Winning MAPLE AVE Series, 'After I'm Gone' takes a haunting look at teen suicide from the perspective of Cari (see 'Loves Me Not'), a young girl who appears to have taken her life due to relentless abuse from her parents and peers. As Cari observes life from the other side, she meets Christine, an older more rebellious spirit, who reluctantly acts as her guide and confidante. Together they observe Michael, an artist friend of Cari’s, who has also been the victim of bullying and abusive parents. As a desperate Michael begins to contemplate suicide, a helpless Cari is suddenly forced to revisit her own nightmares,...and find a way home. 'After I'm Gone' Filmmaker, Richard T. Wilson recently commented, "Essentially, we're reaching out to at-risk youth here who have next to no resources. We're trying to let students know that, even in the worst of circumstances, there's still Help & Hope. It's a very different POV, I know, but one I felt wasn't being addressed in the current outreach model. Having said that, we're all thrilled the Accolades have recognized us ~ it's quite an honor!" The Accolade recognizes film, television and videography professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. In winning an Accolade, OutreachArts joins the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award. As with all our MAPLE AVE films, a Leader's Guide is included with the 'After I'm Gone' DVD, featuring teen suicide statistics, classroom discussion questions and creative follow-up activities to help students deepen their connection to the issue. To purchase the DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store today!
'AFTER I'M GONE' DVD RELEASED!
The 9th MAPLE AVE installment focuses on Teen Suicide Prevention
OutreachArts is proud to announce the DVD release of its latest MAPLE AVE offering, the teen suicide-themed, 'After I'm Gone'. The 9th installment in the Award-Winning MAPLE AVE Series,' After I'm Gone' takes a haunting look at teen suicide from the perspective of Cari (see 'Loves Me Not'), a young girl who appears to have taken her life due to relentless abuse from her parents and peers. As Cari observes life from the other side, she meets Christine, an older more rebellious spirit, who reluctantly acts as her guide and confidante. Together they observe Michael, an artist friend of Cari’s, who has also been the victim of bullying and abusive parents. As a desperate Michael begins to contemplate suicide, a helpless Cari is suddenly forced to revisit her own nightmares,...and find a way home. 'After I'm Gone' Filmmaker, Richard T. Wilson recently commented, "Essentially, we're reaching out to at-risk youth here who have next to no resources. We're trying to let students know that, even in the worst of circumstances, there's still Help & Hope. It's a very different POV, I know, but one I felt wasn't being addressed in the current outreach model (which I've contributed to in the past). Basically, these are the kids I see/interact with year in and year out, and I really felt compelled to give them a greater voice on this issue."As with all our MAPLE AVE films, a Leader's Guide is included with the 'After I'm Gone' DVD, featuring teen suicide statistics, classroom discussion questions and creative follow-up activities to help students deepen their connection to the issue. To purchase the 'After I'm Gone'' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store today!
'LOVES ME NOT' WINS PLATINUM REMI AWARD!
MAPLE AVE series honored for 7th year at prestigious WorldFest-Houston Int'l Film Festival
WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, one of the oldest and largest film and video competitions in the world, recently announced that the 'Loves Me Not' has won a prestigious Platinum Remi Award at its 45th annual film festival in Houston, TX. The eighth installment in the Emmy Nominated, Award-Winning teen drama series, 'Loves Me Not' focuses on teen dating violence from the POV of a 17 year old deceased victim named Cari. This latest honor marks the seventh year WorldFest has chosen to recognize the award-winning teen drama series; in 2006 the bullying/Columbine-themed 'Ghosts in the Hall' won a Gold Remi, in 2007 the self-injury/domestic violence drama 'The Hurting' won a coveted Special Jury Award, in 2008 the suicide awareness episode, 'P.S. I Miss You' was honored with a Silver Remi Award, in 2009 the cyberbullying drama, 'Hating Tami' won a Special Jury Award, in 2010 the eating disorder-body image themed, 'More Than This' won the highly prized Platinum Remi Award and in 2010 our drama focusing on parents struggling w/ addictions, 'Promise Me' won the Gold Remi. "Fiercely Independent" WorldFest is one of the oldest film festivals in the world. Past WorldFest honorees have also included Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, The Cohen Brothers, Ang Lee, David Lynch, Spike Lee, Bryan De Palma & Oliver Stone, among many others. With more than 4,500 entries in all categories, only 10-15 percent are winners in WorldFest, so this is certainly quite the honor! To purchase the 'Loves Me Not' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store today!
MAPLE AVE Series on WGTE-PBS!
The Emmy Nominated Series Airing on WGTE's Family Channel
'LOVES ME NOT' WINS ACCOLADE AWARD!
MAPLE AVE dating violence drama honored at prestigious film competition
OutreachArts has just won a prestigious Accolade Award in the Contemporary Issues/Awareness Raising category for their latest 'Maple Ave' series offering,'Loves Me Not'! The 8th installment in the Award-Winning MAPLE AVE Series, 'Loves Me Not' focuses on dating/domestic violence from the POV of a 17 year old deceased victim named Cari. Cari was relentlessly beaten by her boyfriend, Marcos and so viciously bullied by his friends after leaving him that she, ultimately, took her own life. Now Cari finds herself helplessly watching the same thing happen all over again to another girl, Sharon (Marcos' new girlfriend). Between her manipulative and violent boyfriend and her self-absorbed parents, Sharon would appear to have the deck stacked against her - but her best friend, Tina refuses to give up on her. Even as Sharon pushes her away, Tina desperately searches for a way to save her friend from meeting the same fate as Cari. As with all our MAPLE AVE films, a Leader's Guide is included with the 'Loves Me Not' DVD, featuring dating violence statistics, classroom discussion questions and creative follow-up activities to help students
deepen their connection to the issue.
The Accolade recognizes film, television and videography professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. In winning an Accolade, OutreachArts joins the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award. Thomas Bakers, Ph.D., who chairs The Accolade had this to say about the latest winners, “The Accolade is not an easy award to win. Entries are received from around the world. The Accolade helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptionally high quality of entries. The goal of The Accolade is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve.”
To purchase the 'Loves Me Not' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
'LOVES ME NOT' DVD RELEASED!
The 8th MAPLE AVE installment focuses on Teen Dating Violence
OutreachArts is proud to announce the DVD release of its latest MAPLE AVE offering, the dating violence-themed, 'Loves Me Not'. The 8th installment in the Award-Winning MAPLE AVE Series, 'Loves Me Not' focuses on dating/domestic violence from the POV of a 17 year old deceased victim named Cari. Cari was relentlessly beaten by her boyfriend, Marcos and so viciously bullied by his friends after leaving him that she, ultimately, took her own life. Now Cari finds herself helplessly watching the same thing happen all over again to another girl, Sharon (Marcos' new girlfriend). Between her manipulative and violent boyfriend and her self-absorbed parents, Sharon would appear to have the deck stacked against her - but her best friend, Tina refuses to give up on her. Even as Sharon pushes her away, Tina desperately searches for a way to save her friend from meeting the same fate as Cari. As with all our MAPLE AVE films, a Leader's Guide is included with the 'Loves Me Not' DVD, featuring dating violence statistics, classroom discussion questions and creative follow-up activities to help students deepen their connection to the issue.
To purchase the DVD for your school or organization, please visit MAPLE AVE Store today!
'PROMISE ME' WINS COMMUNICATOR AWARD!!
MAPLE AVE Drama Honored with Award of Distinction at 17th Annual Communicator Awards
'Maple Ave' parental addictions awareness episode,'Promise Me' has been honored yet again; this time with a 2011 Communicator Award! The Communicator Awards is the leading international creative awards program honoring creative excellence for communication professionals. Founded by communication professionals over a decade ago, The Communicator Awards is an annual competition honoring the best in advertising, corporate communications, public relations and identity work for print, video, interactive and audio. The 2011 Communicator Awards received over 6000 entries from ad agencies, interactive agencies, production firms, in-house creative professionals, graphic designers, design firms, and public relations firms. The Communicator Awards are judged and overseen by the International Academy of the Visual Arts (IAVA). The IAVA is an invitation-only member-based organization of leading professionals from various disciplines of the visual arts dedicated to embracing progress and the evolving nature of traditional and interactive media. Current membership represents a “Who’s Who” of acclaimed media, advertising, and marketing firms including: Condè Nast, Coach, Disney, The Ellen Degeneres Show, Estee Lauder, HBO, Keller Crescent, Monster.com, MTV, Polo Ralph Lauren, Sotheby’s Institute of Art, Tribal DDB, Victoria’s Secret, Wired, Yahoo!, and many others.
To purchase the 'Promise Me' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store today!
'PROMISE ME' NOMINATED FOR VOICE AWARD!!
SAMHSA's 2011 Voice Awards ceremony takes place August 24 at Paramount Studios in Hollywood, CA
'Maple Ave' parental addictions awareness episode, 'Promise Me' has been nominated for a 2011 Voice Award! Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Voice Awards honor consumer/peer leaders who have done exemplary work promoting the social inclusion of individuals with behavioral health problems. The awards also recognize TV and film writers and producers that incorporate dignified, respectful, and accurate portrayals of individuals with behavioral health problems into their scripts, programs, and productions. In 2011, SAMHSA is putting special emphasis on the impact of trauma and the significant effects it can have on individuals, families and friends, communities, and our Nation. Consideration is being given to consumer/peer leaders who have successfully advocated for the rights of trauma survivors and promoted the importance of trauma-informed care. Additional consideration is also being given to TV and film productions that accurately and respectfully portray the experience of trauma, healing, and recovery. All nominated Voice Award productions will be judged in May-June and winners will be announced in late June. The 2011 Voice Awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, August 24 at Paramount Studios in Hollywood, CA. The event brings together people from the entertainment industry and behavioral health consumer/peer leader and advocacy communities for a night that celebrates increased awareness of behavioral health (mental health and/or addiction issues) and the power of recovery. For more information about the Voice Awards, please visit http://www.whatadifference.samhsa.gov/voiceawards/.
'PROMISE ME' WINS GOLD REMI AWARD!
MAPLE AVE series honored for 6th year at prestigious WorldFest-Houston Int'l Film Festival
WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, one of the oldest and largest film and video competitions in the world, recently announced that the MAPLE AVE parental addictions awareness episode, 'Promise Me'. has won a prestigious Gold Remi Award at its 44th film festival in Houston, TX. The seventh installment in the Emmy Nominated, Award-Winning teen drama series, 'Promise Me' focuses on parents with addictions and the devastating impact they have on their children's lives. This latest honor marks the sixth year WorldFest has chosen to recognize the award-winning teen drama series; in 2006 the bullying/Columbine-themed 'Ghosts in the Hall' won a Gold Remi, in 2007 the self-injury/domestic violence drama 'The Hurting' won a coveted Special Jury Award, in 2008 the suicide awareness episode, 'P.S. I Miss You' was honored with a Silver Remi Award, in 2009 the cyberbullying drama, 'Hating Tami' won a Special Jury Award and in 2010 the eating disorder-body image themed, 'More Than This' won the highly prized Platinum Remi Award. "Fiercely Independent" WorldFest is one of the oldest film festivals in the world. Past WorldFest honorees have also included Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, The Cohen Brothers, Ang Lee, David Lynch, Spike Lee, Bryan De Palma & Oliver Stone, among many others. With more than 4,500 entries in all categories, only 10-15 percent are winners in WorldFest, so this is certainly quite the honor! (The level of award for 'Promise Me' will be announced
at the WorldFest Awards Gala on April 16th ~ so stay tuned!)
To purchase the 'Promise Me' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store today!
'PROMISE ME' WINS 2010 ACCOLADE AWARD!
MAPLE AVE parental addictions drama honored at prestigious film competition
OutreachArts has just won a prestigious Accolade Award in the Contemporary Issues/Awareness Raising category for their latest 'Maple Ave' series offering,'Promise Me'! The seventh installment in the Emmy Nominated, Award-Winning teen drama series, 'Promise Me' focuses on parents with addictions and the devastating impact they have on their children's lives. The film's storyline centers around 17 year old Ann who is forced to face the grim reality that her parents‘ addictions (alcoholism and problem gambling) are slowly destroying her family. While her older brother Mike’s quiet stoicism is sorely tested by their alcoholic mother’s denial of reality, Ann’s own initial reluctance is also an issue. However, after Ann’s father gambles away her college fund, she can no longer avoid the truth ~ and soon grows deeply depressed. Though her brother and best friend, Tami sense something’s wrong, will they be in time
to avert a potential tragedy...?
The Accolade recognizes film, television and videography professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. In winning an Accolade, OutreachArts joins the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award. Thomas Bakers, Ph.D., who chairs The Accolade had this to say about the latest winners, “The Accolade is not an easy award to win. Entries are received from around the world. The Accolade helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptionally high quality of entries. The goal of The Accolade is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve.”
Like all OutreachArts' films, 'Promise Me' was greatly informed by the audience it's designed to reach. "I heard so many heartbreaking stories from the teens I interviewed for this film," said Writer-Director, Richard Wilson, "If we've only captured a thimbleful of the desperation they conveyed to me, it should be more than enough to make audiences sit up and take notice. Their stories were that disturbing - and powerful. This award then is as much a tribute to their inspiring endurance as it is our incredible creative team. Many thanks to the Accolades on behalf of all of us here at OutreachArts and the numerous teens who inspired 'Promise Me'!"
To purchase the 'Promise Me' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
'MORE THAN THIS' WINS 2010 AEGIS AWARD!
MAPLE AVE eating disorders & steroid abuse awareness film honored as Drama Finalist
The Aegis Awards, one of the oldest and most respected video/film production contests in the United States has honored 'Maple Ave' body image awareness episode, 'More Than This' with its Drama Finalist Award in its most recent competition. The Aegis Awards are known for being the only competition that features true peer judging by fellow producers, directors, cameramen, editors, and other professionals who work in the video/film industry every day.
To purchase the 'More Than This' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
'MORE THAN THIS' WINS PLATINUM REMI AWARD AT 43rd WORLDFEST-HOUSTON INT'L FEST!!
MAPLE AVE series honored for 5th year at prestigious WorldFest-Houston Film Festival
WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, one of the oldest and largest film and video competitions in the world awarded 'Maple Ave' body image awareness episode (touching on eating disorders & steroid abuse), 'More Than This' a prestigious Platinum Remi Award. This latest honor marks the fifth year WorldFest has chosen to recognize the award-winning teen drama series; in 2006, the bullying/Columbine-themed 'Ghosts in the Hall' won a Gold Remi, in 2007, the self-injury/domestic violence drama 'The Hurting' won a coveted Special Jury Award and, in 2008, the suicide awareness episode, 'P.S. I Miss You' was honored with a Silver Remi Award and in 2009 the cyberbullying awareness episode, 'Hating Tami won a Special Jury Award. "Fiercely Independent" WorldFest is one of the oldest film festivals in the world. Past WorldFest honorees have also included Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, The Cohen Brothers, Ang Lee, David Lynch, Spike Lee, Bryan De Palma & Oliver Stone, among many others.
To purchase the 'More Than This' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
'MORE THAN THIS' DVD Released!
Living in the shadow of his older brother's past athletic glories, Donnie turns to steroid abuse to help him 'measure up' on the basketball court. Not long after, he finds his life slowly spinning out of control as his girlfriend, Angela tries in vain to help him kick his addiction. In the meantime, Angela is also struggling to convince her friends, Dara and Lucy, that, contrary to what they've read on the internet, anorexia and bulimia are not 'lifestyle choices' but, instead, serious medical disorders. Angela should know; she too once struggled with bulimia but now finds herself reluctant to share this potentially helpful fact with her two misguided friends. Donnie's Coach, Jack, is also struggling with intervening in what he suspects may be Donnie's steroid problem. However, once Jack's sister, Joy reminds him of her son's tragic loss to drugs, he is forced to reconsider his position. Focusing on body image issues via steroid abuse and eating disorders, 'More Than This' also strongly emphasizes the importance of doing right by others ~ even when it's personally difficult.
To purchase the 'More Than This' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
'HATING TAMI' WINS SPECIAL JURY AWARD AT 42nd WORLDFEST-HOUSTON INT'L FEST!!
MAPLE AVE series honored for 4th year at prestigious WorldFest-Houston Film Festival
WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, one of the oldest and largest film and video competitions in the world awarded 'Maple Ave' cyber bullying awareness episode, 'Hating Tami' a prestigious Special Jury Award at its April 25th 42nd Awards Gala in Houston, TX. This latest honor marks the fourth year WorldFest has chosen to recognize the award-winning teen drama series; in 2006, the bullying/Columbine-themed 'Ghosts in the Hall' won a Gold Remi, in 2007, the self-injury/domestic violence drama 'The Hurting' won a coveted Special Jury Award and, in 2008, the suicide awareness episode, 'P.S. I Miss You' was honored with a Silver Remi Award. "Fiercely Independent" WorldFest is one of the oldest film festivals in the world. Past WorldFest honorees have also included Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, The Cohen Brothers, Ang Lee, David Lynch, Spike Lee, Bryan De Palma & Oliver Stone, among many others.
To obtain the 'Hating Tami' DVD for your school or organization, visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
The Emmy Nominated Series Now Airing on KLCS-PBS
ATT: LOS ANGELES VIEWERS: PBS Affiliate, KLCS is now airing OutreachArts' ground-breaking teen drama series, MAPLE AVE every Sunday afternoon @ 3PM (PST) through December 2nd! And, yes, in case you were wondering,
WE LOVE LA!!
'AFTER I'M GONE' WINS ACCOLADE AWARD!
MAPLE AVE teen suicide drama honored at prestigious film competition
OutreachArts has just won a prestigious Accolade Award in the Contemporary Issues/Awareness Raising category for their teen suicide awareness drama,'After I'm Gone'! The 9th episode in the Award-Winning MAPLE AVE Series, 'After I'm Gone' takes a haunting look at teen suicide from the perspective of Cari (see 'Loves Me Not'), a young girl who appears to have taken her life due to relentless abuse from her parents and peers. As Cari observes life from the other side, she meets Christine, an older more rebellious spirit, who reluctantly acts as her guide and confidante. Together they observe Michael, an artist friend of Cari’s, who has also been the victim of bullying and abusive parents. As a desperate Michael begins to contemplate suicide, a helpless Cari is suddenly forced to revisit her own nightmares,...and find a way home. 'After I'm Gone' Filmmaker, Richard T. Wilson recently commented, "Essentially, we're reaching out to at-risk youth here who have next to no resources. We're trying to let students know that, even in the worst of circumstances, there's still Help & Hope. It's a very different POV, I know, but one I felt wasn't being addressed in the current outreach model. Having said that, we're all thrilled the Accolades have recognized us ~ it's quite an honor!" The Accolade recognizes film, television and videography professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. In winning an Accolade, OutreachArts joins the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award. As with all our MAPLE AVE films, a Leader's Guide is included with the 'After I'm Gone' DVD, featuring teen suicide statistics, classroom discussion questions and creative follow-up activities to help students deepen their connection to the issue. To purchase the DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store today!
'AFTER I'M GONE' DVD RELEASED!
The 9th MAPLE AVE installment focuses on Teen Suicide Prevention
OutreachArts is proud to announce the DVD release of its latest MAPLE AVE offering, the teen suicide-themed, 'After I'm Gone'. The 9th installment in the Award-Winning MAPLE AVE Series,' After I'm Gone' takes a haunting look at teen suicide from the perspective of Cari (see 'Loves Me Not'), a young girl who appears to have taken her life due to relentless abuse from her parents and peers. As Cari observes life from the other side, she meets Christine, an older more rebellious spirit, who reluctantly acts as her guide and confidante. Together they observe Michael, an artist friend of Cari’s, who has also been the victim of bullying and abusive parents. As a desperate Michael begins to contemplate suicide, a helpless Cari is suddenly forced to revisit her own nightmares,...and find a way home. 'After I'm Gone' Filmmaker, Richard T. Wilson recently commented, "Essentially, we're reaching out to at-risk youth here who have next to no resources. We're trying to let students know that, even in the worst of circumstances, there's still Help & Hope. It's a very different POV, I know, but one I felt wasn't being addressed in the current outreach model (which I've contributed to in the past). Basically, these are the kids I see/interact with year in and year out, and I really felt compelled to give them a greater voice on this issue."As with all our MAPLE AVE films, a Leader's Guide is included with the 'After I'm Gone' DVD, featuring teen suicide statistics, classroom discussion questions and creative follow-up activities to help students deepen their connection to the issue. To purchase the 'After I'm Gone'' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store today!
'LOVES ME NOT' WINS PLATINUM REMI AWARD!
MAPLE AVE series honored for 7th year at prestigious WorldFest-Houston Int'l Film Festival
WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, one of the oldest and largest film and video competitions in the world, recently announced that the 'Loves Me Not' has won a prestigious Platinum Remi Award at its 45th annual film festival in Houston, TX. The eighth installment in the Emmy Nominated, Award-Winning teen drama series, 'Loves Me Not' focuses on teen dating violence from the POV of a 17 year old deceased victim named Cari. This latest honor marks the seventh year WorldFest has chosen to recognize the award-winning teen drama series; in 2006 the bullying/Columbine-themed 'Ghosts in the Hall' won a Gold Remi, in 2007 the self-injury/domestic violence drama 'The Hurting' won a coveted Special Jury Award, in 2008 the suicide awareness episode, 'P.S. I Miss You' was honored with a Silver Remi Award, in 2009 the cyberbullying drama, 'Hating Tami' won a Special Jury Award, in 2010 the eating disorder-body image themed, 'More Than This' won the highly prized Platinum Remi Award and in 2010 our drama focusing on parents struggling w/ addictions, 'Promise Me' won the Gold Remi. "Fiercely Independent" WorldFest is one of the oldest film festivals in the world. Past WorldFest honorees have also included Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, The Cohen Brothers, Ang Lee, David Lynch, Spike Lee, Bryan De Palma & Oliver Stone, among many others. With more than 4,500 entries in all categories, only 10-15 percent are winners in WorldFest, so this is certainly quite the honor! To purchase the 'Loves Me Not' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store today!
MAPLE AVE Series on WGTE-PBS!
The Emmy Nominated Series Airing on WGTE's Family Channel
'LOVES ME NOT' WINS ACCOLADE AWARD!
MAPLE AVE dating violence drama honored at prestigious film competition
OutreachArts has just won a prestigious Accolade Award in the Contemporary Issues/Awareness Raising category for their latest 'Maple Ave' series offering,'Loves Me Not'! The 8th installment in the Award-Winning MAPLE AVE Series, 'Loves Me Not' focuses on dating/domestic violence from the POV of a 17 year old deceased victim named Cari. Cari was relentlessly beaten by her boyfriend, Marcos and so viciously bullied by his friends after leaving him that she, ultimately, took her own life. Now Cari finds herself helplessly watching the same thing happen all over again to another girl, Sharon (Marcos' new girlfriend). Between her manipulative and violent boyfriend and her self-absorbed parents, Sharon would appear to have the deck stacked against her - but her best friend, Tina refuses to give up on her. Even as Sharon pushes her away, Tina desperately searches for a way to save her friend from meeting the same fate as Cari. As with all our MAPLE AVE films, a Leader's Guide is included with the 'Loves Me Not' DVD, featuring dating violence statistics, classroom discussion questions and creative follow-up activities to help students
deepen their connection to the issue.
The Accolade recognizes film, television and videography professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. In winning an Accolade, OutreachArts joins the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award. Thomas Bakers, Ph.D., who chairs The Accolade had this to say about the latest winners, “The Accolade is not an easy award to win. Entries are received from around the world. The Accolade helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptionally high quality of entries. The goal of The Accolade is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve.”
To purchase the 'Loves Me Not' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
'LOVES ME NOT' DVD RELEASED!
The 8th MAPLE AVE installment focuses on Teen Dating Violence
OutreachArts is proud to announce the DVD release of its latest MAPLE AVE offering, the dating violence-themed, 'Loves Me Not'. The 8th installment in the Award-Winning MAPLE AVE Series, 'Loves Me Not' focuses on dating/domestic violence from the POV of a 17 year old deceased victim named Cari. Cari was relentlessly beaten by her boyfriend, Marcos and so viciously bullied by his friends after leaving him that she, ultimately, took her own life. Now Cari finds herself helplessly watching the same thing happen all over again to another girl, Sharon (Marcos' new girlfriend). Between her manipulative and violent boyfriend and her self-absorbed parents, Sharon would appear to have the deck stacked against her - but her best friend, Tina refuses to give up on her. Even as Sharon pushes her away, Tina desperately searches for a way to save her friend from meeting the same fate as Cari. As with all our MAPLE AVE films, a Leader's Guide is included with the 'Loves Me Not' DVD, featuring dating violence statistics, classroom discussion questions and creative follow-up activities to help students deepen their connection to the issue.
To purchase the DVD for your school or organization, please visit MAPLE AVE Store today!
'PROMISE ME' WINS COMMUNICATOR AWARD!!
MAPLE AVE Drama Honored with Award of Distinction at 17th Annual Communicator Awards
'Maple Ave' parental addictions awareness episode,'Promise Me' has been honored yet again; this time with a 2011 Communicator Award! The Communicator Awards is the leading international creative awards program honoring creative excellence for communication professionals. Founded by communication professionals over a decade ago, The Communicator Awards is an annual competition honoring the best in advertising, corporate communications, public relations and identity work for print, video, interactive and audio. The 2011 Communicator Awards received over 6000 entries from ad agencies, interactive agencies, production firms, in-house creative professionals, graphic designers, design firms, and public relations firms. The Communicator Awards are judged and overseen by the International Academy of the Visual Arts (IAVA). The IAVA is an invitation-only member-based organization of leading professionals from various disciplines of the visual arts dedicated to embracing progress and the evolving nature of traditional and interactive media. Current membership represents a “Who’s Who” of acclaimed media, advertising, and marketing firms including: Condè Nast, Coach, Disney, The Ellen Degeneres Show, Estee Lauder, HBO, Keller Crescent, Monster.com, MTV, Polo Ralph Lauren, Sotheby’s Institute of Art, Tribal DDB, Victoria’s Secret, Wired, Yahoo!, and many others.
To purchase the 'Promise Me' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store today!
'PROMISE ME' NOMINATED FOR VOICE AWARD!!
SAMHSA's 2011 Voice Awards ceremony takes place August 24 at Paramount Studios in Hollywood, CA
'Maple Ave' parental addictions awareness episode, 'Promise Me' has been nominated for a 2011 Voice Award! Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Voice Awards honor consumer/peer leaders who have done exemplary work promoting the social inclusion of individuals with behavioral health problems. The awards also recognize TV and film writers and producers that incorporate dignified, respectful, and accurate portrayals of individuals with behavioral health problems into their scripts, programs, and productions. In 2011, SAMHSA is putting special emphasis on the impact of trauma and the significant effects it can have on individuals, families and friends, communities, and our Nation. Consideration is being given to consumer/peer leaders who have successfully advocated for the rights of trauma survivors and promoted the importance of trauma-informed care. Additional consideration is also being given to TV and film productions that accurately and respectfully portray the experience of trauma, healing, and recovery. All nominated Voice Award productions will be judged in May-June and winners will be announced in late June. The 2011 Voice Awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, August 24 at Paramount Studios in Hollywood, CA. The event brings together people from the entertainment industry and behavioral health consumer/peer leader and advocacy communities for a night that celebrates increased awareness of behavioral health (mental health and/or addiction issues) and the power of recovery. For more information about the Voice Awards, please visit http://www.whatadifference.samhsa.gov/voiceawards/.
'PROMISE ME' WINS GOLD REMI AWARD!
MAPLE AVE series honored for 6th year at prestigious WorldFest-Houston Int'l Film Festival
WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, one of the oldest and largest film and video competitions in the world, recently announced that the MAPLE AVE parental addictions awareness episode, 'Promise Me'. has won a prestigious Gold Remi Award at its 44th film festival in Houston, TX. The seventh installment in the Emmy Nominated, Award-Winning teen drama series, 'Promise Me' focuses on parents with addictions and the devastating impact they have on their children's lives. This latest honor marks the sixth year WorldFest has chosen to recognize the award-winning teen drama series; in 2006 the bullying/Columbine-themed 'Ghosts in the Hall' won a Gold Remi, in 2007 the self-injury/domestic violence drama 'The Hurting' won a coveted Special Jury Award, in 2008 the suicide awareness episode, 'P.S. I Miss You' was honored with a Silver Remi Award, in 2009 the cyberbullying drama, 'Hating Tami' won a Special Jury Award and in 2010 the eating disorder-body image themed, 'More Than This' won the highly prized Platinum Remi Award. "Fiercely Independent" WorldFest is one of the oldest film festivals in the world. Past WorldFest honorees have also included Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, The Cohen Brothers, Ang Lee, David Lynch, Spike Lee, Bryan De Palma & Oliver Stone, among many others. With more than 4,500 entries in all categories, only 10-15 percent are winners in WorldFest, so this is certainly quite the honor! (The level of award for 'Promise Me' will be announced
at the WorldFest Awards Gala on April 16th ~ so stay tuned!)
To purchase the 'Promise Me' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store today!
'PROMISE ME' WINS 2010 ACCOLADE AWARD!
MAPLE AVE parental addictions drama honored at prestigious film competition
OutreachArts has just won a prestigious Accolade Award in the Contemporary Issues/Awareness Raising category for their latest 'Maple Ave' series offering,'Promise Me'! The seventh installment in the Emmy Nominated, Award-Winning teen drama series, 'Promise Me' focuses on parents with addictions and the devastating impact they have on their children's lives. The film's storyline centers around 17 year old Ann who is forced to face the grim reality that her parents‘ addictions (alcoholism and problem gambling) are slowly destroying her family. While her older brother Mike’s quiet stoicism is sorely tested by their alcoholic mother’s denial of reality, Ann’s own initial reluctance is also an issue. However, after Ann’s father gambles away her college fund, she can no longer avoid the truth ~ and soon grows deeply depressed. Though her brother and best friend, Tami sense something’s wrong, will they be in time
to avert a potential tragedy...?
The Accolade recognizes film, television and videography professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. In winning an Accolade, OutreachArts joins the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award. Thomas Bakers, Ph.D., who chairs The Accolade had this to say about the latest winners, “The Accolade is not an easy award to win. Entries are received from around the world. The Accolade helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptionally high quality of entries. The goal of The Accolade is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve.”
Like all OutreachArts' films, 'Promise Me' was greatly informed by the audience it's designed to reach. "I heard so many heartbreaking stories from the teens I interviewed for this film," said Writer-Director, Richard Wilson, "If we've only captured a thimbleful of the desperation they conveyed to me, it should be more than enough to make audiences sit up and take notice. Their stories were that disturbing - and powerful. This award then is as much a tribute to their inspiring endurance as it is our incredible creative team. Many thanks to the Accolades on behalf of all of us here at OutreachArts and the numerous teens who inspired 'Promise Me'!"
To purchase the 'Promise Me' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
'MORE THAN THIS' WINS 2010 AEGIS AWARD!
MAPLE AVE eating disorders & steroid abuse awareness film honored as Drama Finalist
The Aegis Awards, one of the oldest and most respected video/film production contests in the United States has honored 'Maple Ave' body image awareness episode, 'More Than This' with its Drama Finalist Award in its most recent competition. The Aegis Awards are known for being the only competition that features true peer judging by fellow producers, directors, cameramen, editors, and other professionals who work in the video/film industry every day.
To purchase the 'More Than This' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
'MORE THAN THIS' WINS PLATINUM REMI AWARD AT 43rd WORLDFEST-HOUSTON INT'L FEST!!
MAPLE AVE series honored for 5th year at prestigious WorldFest-Houston Film Festival
WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, one of the oldest and largest film and video competitions in the world awarded 'Maple Ave' body image awareness episode (touching on eating disorders & steroid abuse), 'More Than This' a prestigious Platinum Remi Award. This latest honor marks the fifth year WorldFest has chosen to recognize the award-winning teen drama series; in 2006, the bullying/Columbine-themed 'Ghosts in the Hall' won a Gold Remi, in 2007, the self-injury/domestic violence drama 'The Hurting' won a coveted Special Jury Award and, in 2008, the suicide awareness episode, 'P.S. I Miss You' was honored with a Silver Remi Award and in 2009 the cyberbullying awareness episode, 'Hating Tami won a Special Jury Award. "Fiercely Independent" WorldFest is one of the oldest film festivals in the world. Past WorldFest honorees have also included Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, The Cohen Brothers, Ang Lee, David Lynch, Spike Lee, Bryan De Palma & Oliver Stone, among many others.
To purchase the 'More Than This' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
'MORE THAN THIS' DVD Released!
Living in the shadow of his older brother's past athletic glories, Donnie turns to steroid abuse to help him 'measure up' on the basketball court. Not long after, he finds his life slowly spinning out of control as his girlfriend, Angela tries in vain to help him kick his addiction. In the meantime, Angela is also struggling to convince her friends, Dara and Lucy, that, contrary to what they've read on the internet, anorexia and bulimia are not 'lifestyle choices' but, instead, serious medical disorders. Angela should know; she too once struggled with bulimia but now finds herself reluctant to share this potentially helpful fact with her two misguided friends. Donnie's Coach, Jack, is also struggling with intervening in what he suspects may be Donnie's steroid problem. However, once Jack's sister, Joy reminds him of her son's tragic loss to drugs, he is forced to reconsider his position. Focusing on body image issues via steroid abuse and eating disorders, 'More Than This' also strongly emphasizes the importance of doing right by others ~ even when it's personally difficult.
To purchase the 'More Than This' DVD for your school or organization, please visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
'HATING TAMI' WINS SPECIAL JURY AWARD AT 42nd WORLDFEST-HOUSTON INT'L FEST!!
MAPLE AVE series honored for 4th year at prestigious WorldFest-Houston Film Festival
WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, one of the oldest and largest film and video competitions in the world awarded 'Maple Ave' cyber bullying awareness episode, 'Hating Tami' a prestigious Special Jury Award at its April 25th 42nd Awards Gala in Houston, TX. This latest honor marks the fourth year WorldFest has chosen to recognize the award-winning teen drama series; in 2006, the bullying/Columbine-themed 'Ghosts in the Hall' won a Gold Remi, in 2007, the self-injury/domestic violence drama 'The Hurting' won a coveted Special Jury Award and, in 2008, the suicide awareness episode, 'P.S. I Miss You' was honored with a Silver Remi Award. "Fiercely Independent" WorldFest is one of the oldest film festivals in the world. Past WorldFest honorees have also included Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, The Cohen Brothers, Ang Lee, David Lynch, Spike Lee, Bryan De Palma & Oliver Stone, among many others.
To obtain the 'Hating Tami' DVD for your school or organization, visit our MAPLE AVE Store!
For earlier MAPLE AVE press releases, please drop us a line at mapleave@outreacharts.com.