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DreamWorks Animation Reports Second Quarter 2010 Financial Results

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Company Announces New $150 Million Share Repurchase Program

DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (NASDAQ:DWA) today announced financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2010. In the quarter, the Company reported total revenue of $158.1 million and net income of $24.0 million, or $0.27 per share on a fully diluted basis.

“Our strong second quarter was driven primarily by the blockbuster performances of Shrek Forever After and How to Train Your Dragon, two of the top 10 films of 2010 on both a domestic and a worldwide basis,” said Jeffrey Katzenberg, DreamWorks Animation’s CEO. “We have once again surpassed $1 billion in worldwide box office and with Megamind still to be released on November 5th, we are on track to make 2010 not only DreamWorks Animation’s single biggest year at the box office, but also the biggest year ever for any CG animation studio.”

Shrek Forever After, which was released on May 21, 2010, contributed $51.8 million of revenue in the quarter, generated by its domestic box office performance as well as merchandising and licensing activities. It has reached approximately $235 million in domestic box office and approximately $368 million in international box office for a worldwide box office total of approximately $603 million to date.

How to Train Your Dragon, which was released on March 26, 2010, contributed $33.4 million of revenue to the quarter, driven primarily by its domestic and international box office performance. It has reached approximately $480 million in worldwide box office to date.

The Company’s 2009 release, Monsters vs. Aliens, contributed $17.2 million of revenue to the quarter, driven primarily by international pay television. The film reached an estimated 7.7 million home entertainment units sold, net of actual and estimated future returns, by the end of the second quarter.

The Company’s 2008 releases, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa and Kung Fu Panda, contributed $4.4 million and $2.5 million of revenue to the quarter, respectively.

Library and other items contributed approximately $48.8 million of revenue to the quarter.

Costs of revenue for the quarter equaled $98.7 million. Selling, general and administrative expenses totaled $27.8 million, including approximately $7.9 million of stock compensation expense and approximately $2.0 million of marketing expense related to the launch of the Company’s online virtual world, Kung Fu Panda World.

Additionally, the Company recorded an expense of approximately $8.7 million related to its tax sharing agreement with a former stockholder. Combining the amount due to the former stockholder with the Company’s income tax expense of approximately $0.7 million, the result is an overall equivalent tax rate of 28.1% for the second quarter.

The Company also announced today that its Board of Directors has approved a new $150 million share repurchase program. For the six months ended June 30, 2010, the Company has repurchased approximately 3.1 million shares for approximately $111 million.

The Company’s third quarter results are expected to be driven primarily by the continued international box office performance of Shrek Forever After. The Company expects its full year 2010 results, which will likely be heavily weighted toward the second half of the year, to be driven by the continued box office performance of Shrek Forever After as well as the home entertainment performance of How to Train Your Dragon and Shrek Forever After, both of which are expected to be released on DVD and Blu-ray in the fourth quarter.

Items related to the earnings press release for the second quarter of 2010 will be discussed in more detail on the Company’s second quarter 2010 earnings conference call later today.

Conference Call Information

DreamWorks Animation will host a conference call and webcast to discuss the results on Tuesday, July 27, 2010, at 4:30 p.m. (ET). Investors can access the call by dialing (800) 230-1096 in the U.S. and (612) 332-0107 internationally and identifying “DreamWorks Animation Earnings” to the operator. The call will also be available via live webcast at www.dreamworksanimation.com.

A replay of the conference call will be available shortly after the call ends on Tuesday, July 27, 2010. To access the replay, dial (800) 475-6701 in the U.S. and (320) 365-3844 internationally and enter 163006 as the conference ID number. Both the earnings release and archived webcast will be available on the Company’s website at www.dreamworksanimation.com.

About DreamWorks Animation SKG

DreamWorks Animation creates high-quality entertainment, including CG animated feature films, television specials and series, live entertainment properties and online virtual worlds, meant for audiences around the world. The Company has world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced filmmaking technology and techniques. DreamWorks Animation has been named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by FORTUNE® Magazine for two consecutive years. In 2010, DreamWorks Animation ranks #6 on the list. All of DreamWorks Animation’s feature films are now being produced in 3D. The Company has theatrically released a total of 20 animated feature films, including the franchise properties of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and How to Train Your Dragon. DreamWorks Animation’s next feature film is Megamind, scheduled to be released in 3D on November 5, 2010.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This document includes certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company’s plans, prospects, strategies, proposals and our beliefs and expectations concerning performance of our current and future releases and anticipated talent, directors and storyline for our upcoming films and other projects, constitute forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the industry in which we operate and management’s beliefs and assumptions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions which are difficult to predict. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by the statements herein due to changes in economic, business, competitive, technological and/or regulatory factors, and other risks and uncertainties affecting the operation of the business of DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. These risks and uncertainties include: audience acceptance of our films, our dependence on the success of a limited number of releases each year, the increasing cost of producing and marketing feature films, piracy of motion pictures, the effect of rapid technological change or alternative forms of entertainment and our need to protect our proprietary technology and enhance or develop new technology. In addition, due to the uncertainties and risks involved in the development and production of animated feature projects, the release dates for the projects described in this document may be delayed. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports filed by us with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and our most recent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. DreamWorks Animation is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.

** FINANCIAL TABLES ATTACHED**

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

December
June 30, 31,
2010 2009
—- —-
(unaudited)
(in thousands,
except par value and
share
amounts)
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents $76,918 $231,245
Trade accounts receivable, net of
allowance for doubtful accounts 46,558 42,175
Income taxes receivable 13,690 9,016
Receivable from Paramount, net of
reserve for returns and allowance
for doubtful accounts 161,259 171,292
Film, live performance and other
inventory costs, net 752,950 695,963
Prepaid expenses 33,018 25,505
Other assets 21,913 15,958
Property, plant, and equipment, net
of accumulated depreciation and
amortization 174,862 161,558
Deferred taxes, net 7,106 7,669
Goodwill 34,216 34,216

Total assets $1,322,490 $1,394,597
========== ==========

Liabilities and Equity
Liabilities:
Accounts payable $2,194 $2,400
Accrued liabilities 101,998 111,281
Payable to former stockholder 61,744 67,456
Deferred revenue and other advances 41,060 60,870
—— ——

Total liabilities 206,996 242,007
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity:
Stockholders’ equity:
Class A common stock, par value
$.01 per share, 350,000,000 shares
authorized, 97,022,472 and
95,967,515 shares issued, as of
June 30, 2010 and December 31,
2009, respectively 970 960
Class B common stock, par value
$.01 per share, 150,000,000 shares
authorized, 10,838,731 and
11,419,461 shares issued and
outstanding, as of June 30, 2010
and December 31, 2009,
respectively 108 114
Additional paid-in capital 953,203 922,681
Retained earnings 841,940 796,296
Less: Class A Treasury common
stock, at cost, 23,612,421 and
20,430,031 shares, as of June 30.
2010 and December 31, 2009,
respectively (680,727) (567,461)
——– ——–

Total stockholders’ equity 1,115,494 1,152,590
——— ———

Total liabilities and stockholders’
equity $1,322,490 $1,394,597
========== ==========

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended
June 30,
——–
2010 2009
— —
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Revenues $158,095 $131,990
Costs of revenues 98,734 74,022
—- —-

Gross profit 59,361 57,968
Product development 422 93
Selling, general and
administrative
expenses 27,751 24,831
—— ——

Operating income 31,188 33,044
Interest income, net 171 979
Other income, net 2,004 1,613
Increase in income
tax benefit payable
to former
stockholder (8,668) (11,020)
—— ——-

Income before income
taxes 24,695 24,616
Provision (benefit)
for income taxes 720 (940)
— —-

Net income $23,975 $25,556
======= =======

Basic net income per
share $0.28 $0.30
Diluted net income
per share $0.27 $0.30
Shares used in
computing net
income per share
Basic 85,709 85,890
Diluted 87,582 86,382

Six Months Ended
June 30,
——–
2010 2009
— —
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Revenues $320,238 $395,514
Costs of revenues 204,917 230,428
—– —–

Gross profit 115,321 165,086
Product development 607 2,461
Selling, general
and administrative
expenses 51,261 45,522
—— ——

Operating income 63,453 117,103
Interest income,
net 230 1,518
Other income, net 4,097 3,065
Increase in income
tax benefit
payable to former
stockholder (16,856) (27,030)
——- ——-

Income before
income taxes 50,924 94,656
Provision (benefit)
for income taxes 5,280 6,790
—– —–

Net income $45,644 $87,866
======= =======

Basic net income
per share $0.53 $1.01
Diluted net income
per share $0.51 $1.01
Shares used in
computing net
income per share
Basic 86,741 86,673
Diluted 88,972 87,390

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)

Six Months Ended
June 30,
2010 2009
(in thousands)
Operating activities
Net income $45,644 $87,866
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net
cash (used in) provided by operating
activities:
Amortization and write off of film, live
performance and other inventory costs 183,295 192,183
Stock compensation expense 15,210 14,695
Depreciation and amortization 2,526 1,831
Revenue earned against deferred revenue and
other advances (53,499) (51,667)
Deferred taxes, net 563 12,330
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Trade accounts receivable (4,383) 2,427
Receivable from Paramount 10,033 72,534
Film, live performance and other inventory
costs (223,418) (183,574)
Prepaid expenses and other assets (15,540) (16,242)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (9,347) (27,749)
Payable to former stockholder (5,712) (1,466)
Income taxes payable/receivable, net (4,851) (8,001)
Deferred revenue and other advances 35,549 74,515
—— ——

Net cash (used in) provided by operating
activities (23,930) 169,682
——- ——-

Investing activities
Purchases of property, plant and equipment (26,590) (31,495)
——- ——-

Net cash used in investing activities (26,590) (31,495)
——- ——-

Financing Activities
Receipts from exercise of stock options 8,786 90
Excess tax benefits from employee equity
awards 673 –
Purchase of treasury stock (113,266) (52,125)
——– ——-

Net cash used in financing activities (103,807) (52,035)
——– ——-

(Decrease) increase in cash and cash
equivalents (154,327) 86,152
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of
period 231,245 262,644
——- ——-

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $76,918 $348,796
======= ========

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow
information:
Cash paid during the period for income
taxes, net $8,891 $2,373
—— ——

Cash paid during the period for interest,
net of amounts capitalized $281 $355
—- —-

Source: DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc.

Michael Moore To Broadcast San Francisco Kent State Truth Tribunal

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West Coast witnesses and participants are invited to record their stories

First New Media Truth-seeking Initiative Documents 1970 Campus Shooting of Kent State University Students

On Aug 7-8, 2010 filmmaker Michael Moore will livecast the hearings of the Kent State Truth Tribunal, streaming in real-time the accounts of participants and witnesses to the events surrounding the 1970 Kent State shootings, that left four students dead and nine injured. This livecast is a continuation of the first real-time broadcast of a truth-seeking initiative on Kent State and will be broadcast on www.MichaelMoore.com from 9am-5pm PT. The Tribunal in San Francisco follows a four-day tribunal in Kent, Ohio in early May which marked the 40th anniversary of the campus shootings and assembled over 70 testimonies.

The Kent State Truth Tribunal in May resulted in an outpouring of original participant testimonies, some who shared their stories for the first time since the shootings, forty years ago. Demand for participation was immense at the 40th anniversary yet many witnesses and participants in the events surrounding the shootings were not able to travel to Ohio.

“San Francisco was a cultural and political hub in the sixties and seventies and it is no accident that so many young people scarred by the events of Kent State headed west after the tragic events of May 1970. Forty years later, the west remains a progressive mecca and many Kent State participants made the west coast their home, like me. We will collect their experiences of the Kent State shootings to continue to try to learn the truth about Kent State in 2010,” said Laurel Krause, tribunal founder and sister of Allison Krause, one of four students killed at Kent.

The Kent State Truth Tribunal was convened by family members of students killed at Kent State in order to record and preserve the stories of those directly affected by the shootings and reveal the truth of what happened on that day 40 years ago. The Ohio National Guard, who opened fire on the protesters, has never publicized the findings of its internal investigation into command responsibility for the shootings.

Michael Moore commented on the truth tribunal: “40 years after the Kent State killings, justice still has not been served. The Kent State Truth Tribunal brings us closer to that goal by sharing first-hand accounts with the public. I am grateful for their efforts and hopeful that some day the truth will come out.”

Three days after the original Kent State Truth Tribunal the Cleveland Plain Dealer broke a major story about a recorded order to fire given to the Ohio National Guard on May 4, 1970. Then on June 15th, in the U.K., British Prime Minister David Cameron apologized for the killings of Bloody Sunday, a strikingly similar event in 1972 where British paratroopers fired on demonstrators, killing 14 people.

Tribunal organizers are asking the United States government to acknowledge the ‘wrongs’ of May 4, 1970, in the hope of reclaiming what was lost that day – freedom to protest and to peacefully assemble and the democratic right to question the government and hold it accountable for wrongdoings.

The Truth Tribunal is generating a comprehensive historical record of the Kent State massacre. Interviews are being conducted by award-winning filmmaker Emily Kunstler and like the 40th anniversary hearings, will be simultaneously livecast on the home page of www.MichaelMoore.com Archived interviews can be found on http://truthtribunal.org/testimonials. The footage and mementos from the tribunal will be physically archived and available for viewing by the public as part of the permanent collection at the renowned Tamiment Library at New York University.

The west coast tribunal will take place over the weekend of August 7 & 8, 2010 at 150 Green Street, San Francisco, California. Organizers are asking for all original participants and witnesses of the event surrounding the 1970 Kent State shootings to pre-register at www.TruthTribunal.org/preregister. An East Coast Tribunal will follow in New York City on September 25 & 26.

On May 4, 1970 the Ohio National Guard opened fire on unarmed students protesting America’s invasion of Cambodia during the Vietnam War. In a day that changed America, four students were killed and nine were wounded as they protested against the war. The incident triggered national outrage in a country already divided. In immediate response to the Kent State shootings, more than four million students rose up in dissent across 900 campuses, generating the only nationwide student protest in U.S. history. No one has been held responsible for the deaths and injuries that resulted from the shootings.

Lizzie Mary Cullen Helps the Homeless with First Solo Show! All profits donated to The Big Issue.

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9 September 2009

Award winning international artist & designer Lizzie Mary Cullen is hosting her first solo exhibition in London UK, in aid of the homeless.

All proceeds from the exhibition will be donated to the Big Issue, the social enterprise, magazine and charity that helps homeless people in Britain earn a legitimate income and help themselves.

A former Production Assistant for Warner Bros, Lizzie worked on the Harry Potter films prior to venturing into the art world. She is securing support from a number of high-profile cast members from the blockbusters, and their celebrity friends pals to be present on the opening night.Mainstream press and key figures from the magazine and charity will also be present. The artist expects to raise at least £20,000 for the Big Issue at the exhibition

Having raised funds for various charities and supporting worthy causes, Emmanuel Ray says he is proud to be partnering with a successful and talented artist who, just like him, is using her growing popularity to help those in need. “It is not only a privilege but also great fun to be working with one of the most talented contemporary artists Britain has ever produced. Lizzie is a visionary artist and the intricate detail in her work, the magical symphony of colours and her ability to make even black and white drawings look enchanting and inviting, is highly impressive and a visual treat!” he added.

Last year saw Lizzie Mary Cullen sashaying into the design world with confidence and scooping up two prestigious awards; Association of Illustrators New Talent 2009 and New Designers One Year On 2009. At 24 Lizzie is enviably successful. Having graduated from Goldsmiths in 2008 she exhibited her work internationally. Her recent exhibitions have included A View of London at The London Transport Museum UK, and New Designers One Year On where she won her second award. Currently touring into 2010 is the Association of Illustrators Images 33 Tour, in which Lizzie’s award-winning iconic illustration Tower Bridge is being exhibited.

Lizzie’s big break came when popular Italian restaurant chain Zizzi commissioned her to design and hand-draw large scale wall murals in a number of their restaurants throughout the UK as part of their national re-brand, revamping 105 branches. Lizzie has also designed their national menus has already completed murals in various Zizzi restaurants in the UK; Covent Garden-Bow Street, Camberley, Tunbridge Wells, Marlow, Newcastle Metro Centre, Sevenoaks, Maidstone and Nottingham, to start with.

Lizzie has been featured in numerous publications including the acclaimed Beyond Architecture:
Imaginative Buildings and Fictional Cities, and Martin Dawber’s The Big Book of Contemporary Illustration. She had a cover feature in Design Week magazine as the next New Design Star. She was also featured in Icon Magazine and Blueprint Magazine. Computer Arts Magazine named her one of the design world’s up-and-coming talents. She also writes for Design Week and Illustration Magazine. Lizzie has just completed a spread for Illustration Magazine’s Summer 2010 issue and has given an exclusive interview for Digital Arts magazine.

She has also just finished editing her first illustrated children’s book about a family of modern fairies living in London. Lizzie exhibited at Grand Designs Show 2010 in Excel London, where she received a number of ad hoc commissions. She has also worked with MTV, Design Week and Tom Felton who plays Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter movie series. Her illustrations will feature on his new website to promote his debut album with Six String Productions. Lizzie will also design the album artwork. Tom Felton and Daniel Radcliffe are expected to attend the exhibition and support the lady who worked in the film that made them international stars!

Lizzie Mary Cullen The First Solo Show opens on 9 September at the Artefact: The Framers Gallery in London’s West End and will run until 25th September.

Partying for a Purpose to Host Its Annual Lucky 7 Fundraiser at Playboy Mansion.

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Partying for a Purpose to Host Its Annual Lucky 7 Fundraiser at the Playboy Mansion

Hugh Hefner will be honored with the ‘Taking Care of Business Award’ for his generosity to the cause.

Partying for a Purpose is hosting its 7th annual fundraising event Lucky 7 at the Playboy Mansion on August 21 benefiting It’s All About The Kids Foundation, a cause dedicated to enhancing the lives of less fortunate children. Playboy Playmate 2004 Pilar Lastra and Playboy Cyber Girl Melissa Dawn Taylor will be the weekend hosts, which will include three parties from Friday August 20 through Sunday August 22.

During the Lucky 7 party festivities at the Playboy Mansion, Mr. Hugh Hefner will be honored with the “Taking Care of Business Award.” The award is in memory of Scott Brannon, who was murdered in 2006.

“We have had the privilege of having six successful annual events at the Playboy Mansion,” said Angela Brannon, Co-Founder and Executive Director of It’s All About The Kids. “Because of Mr. Hefner’s generosity, our high profile events have helped us build awareness with new audiences, and the funds raised will enable us to continue to assist under privileged children in San Diego and around the world. We are so excited to honor him! To date, we have served over 10,000 children. At this year’s party, are also supporting the Seeing Stars Foundation and Global H2O.”

Lucky 7 guests will be partying for a purpose at The Hyatt Century Plaza for three days, including a Friday Casino Night with a hosted VIP cocktail party, Saturday pool party and a “RECOVERY” pool party on Sunday. Casino Night guests will enjoy roulette, blackjack and a live auction for the chance to body paint models. Winning bidders will arrive at to the Mansion early on Saturday evening to help paint their beauties.

Only Four Hundred tickets are available for the weekend-long event, with 100% of the proceeds going to It’s All About The Kids. All donations are 50% tax deductible. To purchase tickets and for more information, visit www.PartyingForaPurposeMansionParty.com. For media inquiries, contact Richie Matthews of DIALOGO at richie@prdialogo.com

Jonathan Ross has fun at 50.

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What do Jeremy Clarkson, Gary Lineker, Jonathan Ross and the Play-Doh Fun Factory Playset all have in common? They’re all celebrating turning 50 this year… and as seen on one of Jonathan’s last shows, a series of fun Play-Doh modelling compound models have been created to mark the occasion.

The iconic Play-Doh brand commissioned Hollywood sculptor Stephen Hicklin to create a visual masterpiece, four 3D sculptures of iconic British celebrities that are also celebrating their 50th birthday this year, Bono, Jeremy Clarkson, Gary Lineker, and Jonathan Ross.

‘We wanted to celebrate with something fun and instantly recognisable, just like the 50th Birthday Play-Doh Fun Factory playset. The celebrity creations do just that!’ said Charlotte Higgins Play-Doh Brand Manager.

Having stood the test of time, today’s kids love playing with this classic toy, using some of its brand new elements, including an extended handle for extruding Play-Doh modelling compound and a spinning dial with eight great shapes, including a triangle, bat and flower – feed in the Play-Doh modelling compound and let imaginations take over!

The 50th Birthday Fun Factory Spin ‘n Store playset comes complete with plastic cutting tool, factory presser and two 2oz (85g) cans of Play-Doh compound, and is available nationwide priced at £7.99 RRP (suitable for children ages 3 plus).

Students winners – Sony World Photography Awards 2010

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Students from Escuela Argentina de Fotografía, in Argentina, win Student Competition at the Sony World Photography Awards 2010

Victoria Ines Dobaño and Rodrigo Terren Toro from Escuela Argentina de Fotografía, Argentina, are today, 27 July, announced as the winners of the Student Focus Competition for the Sony World Photography Awards 2010.

From the 120 institutions initially selected to compete, 12 students were shortlisted from six institutions across six continents to take part in the final stage of the competition. The students’ challenge was to produce a series of six photographs that explored the notion of ‘Power’. The 12 students were given two weeks to complete the exercise within their local community. The 12 winning students and the overall winning university received a combined prize of €45,000 worth of digital SLR photographic equipment, courtesy of Sony.

Victoria Ines Dobaño and Rodrigo Terren Toro’s winning images, entitled Villa Epecuen, depict the overwhelming power of water. Villa Epecuen in Argentina was a town which for many years drew tourists who believed that its saltwater lake had healing properties. It was a sacred place for the native people of Argentina.

In 1985 Villa Epecuen was completely flooded when the lake overflowed its embankments, covering over half the town. The aftermath of the disaster reveals the powerful and devastating effects of water.

The six winning images of Villa Epecuen by Victoria Ines Dobaño and Rodrigo Terren Toro are:

Student Focus 2010 judge, Sue Steward, commented:

“The choice of Power as the theme for this year’s Student Focus ignited an exceptional standard and variety of work. Maybe it’s the abstract quality of the word which prompted interestingly different responses from the six universities. The winning Argentine series followed-up the story of a tragic flood 25 years ago, a description of the power of nature. The photographers found beauty in the stark, abandoned and destroyed landscape, the chaos of fallen bricks and concrete, dark leafless trees, and partially demolished buildings – the crucial reminders of lives once lived there. The choice was difficult but ultimately this series possessed the greatest maturity and depth of them all.”

On winning this award the students tutor at Escuela Argentina de Fotografia, Ines Yujnovsky, commented:

“Teaching photography means transmitting the passion of this fascinating art and technique and we believe students should search their own vision. Student Focus encouraged students to think about their own approaches to themes like ‘War and Peace’, ‘Power’ and ‘Everyday life’ in a city like Cannes. Having the opportunity to go to the Festival was incredible. We enjoyed talks, exhibitions, portfolio reviews and met interesting people who are dedicated to photography. For us being the “University of the Year” and to win the prize will improve our possibilities to continue expanding the passion of photography to young students.”

The students’ images were judged by an esteemed panel of arts professionals: Adrian Evans – Director of Panos pictures agency, Adrian Boot – Music photographer and co-founder of www.urbanimage.tv, Jonathon Torgovnik – widely exhibited documentary photographer and co-founder of NGO, Foundation Rwanda, Idris Khan – artist and Sue Steward – photography critic, writer, radio broadcaster, photo-editor and journalist.

Ania Wadsworth, Student Focus Manager at the World Photography Awards, commented:

“We have been delighted with the quality of work submitted into the 2010 Student Focus competition. The students interpreted the brief with such intelligence and professionalism and the judges were impressed by the originality of thought and true breadth of imagery.

Student Focus continues to expand with events around the world, our partnership with the Young Tate Online and yet another internationally renowned jury; 2011 promises to be a vibrant year.”

Yoshiyuki Nogami, Vice President of Digital Imaging at Sony Europe, commented:

“We are honoured to be able to support these talented young individuals and have been impressed by the exceptionally high standard of images they have produced during this competition.”

The 2011 Student Focus competition has now been launched. The 2011 judges of the competition are: Eder Chiodetto, independent curator, photographer and photography critic and professor, based in São Paulo, Brazil; Simon Norfolk, prolific landscape photographer, UK; Deborah Willis, artist and photographer, based in New York, USA; Roger Tooth, head of photography for The Guardian newspaper, UK; and Shizuka Yokomizo, Japanese born, London based photographer who is best known for her portrait series Strangers.

More information about Student Focus 2011 can be found at http://www.worldphoto.org/student-focus/

William Curley – Japanese Week, 24th September – 3rd October.

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As a chocoholic I am very excited about this event.

William Curley, Britain’s Best Chocolatier, and his wife and business partner Suzue Curley, who is originally from Japan, are celebrating Suzue’s Japanese heritage with ten days packed full of Japanese inspired events, tastings and master-classes. William Curley’s Japanese week will be held at his Belgravia store from making master-classes are now happening on the 2nd and 3rd October as well as the 25th and 26th September, at the same times (2pm – 4pm)

Visitors to the store can also look forward to an exciting and exclusive limited edition range of Japanese inspired chocolates, patisserie, hot and chilled drinks – even the decoration and sound track of the store will undergo a total oriental transformation.

Japanese Week with William and Suzue Curley will consist of:

Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th September, 2pm – 4pm
· Japanese Chocolate Making Master-Class.
A tasting of all William Curley’s Japanese inspired chocolates, the opportunity to see, taste and understand the raw Japanese ingredients William uses in his chocolates and also understand more about the different combinations he uses in the couture collection, and why. Guests will then learn to make their own Toasted Sesame Couture Chocolate and Yamazaki Whiskey Truffles which once finished will be beautifully boxed and wrapped ready to take home and enjoy. £75 per person.

Wednesday 29th September, 7pm – 9.30pm
· Japanese Tea and Chocolate Pairing Evening.
Hosted by William Curley and John Kennedy from TeaSmith. Guests will be greeted on arrival with an Oolong Tea Champagne Cocktail, enjoy homemade Japanese inspired savoury canapés and sample 8 Japanese teas paired with 8 Japanese inspired chocolates and a delicious patisserie to end the evening. £55 per person.

Thursday 30th September, 7pm – 9.30pm
· Sake and Chocolate Tasting Evening.
A tasting of six different Japanese Sakes, paired by Sake expert Gilbert Winfield with William Curley’s superb chocolates. Because of its unique ‘umami enhancing’ properties and low acidity, Sake is one of the best drinks to pair with chocolate, and the distinctive, delicate flavours of our chosen Sakes beautifully complement the smooth richness of William’s confections. Guests will be greeted with a glass of champagne on arrival and enjoy delicious Japanese inspired canapés. To finish there will be another Japanese speciality, Shiraume Umeshu, a plum infused liqueur. £55 per person.
For bookings and availability please contact caroline@williamcurley.co.uk, 020 7730 5522.

About William Curley.

It was at just 27 that William Curley became the youngest Chef Pâtissier at The Savoy Hotel working with Anton Edelman and leading a team of 21 pastry chefs. Curley’s career spans many years of working with some of the finest chefs and pâtissiers in the business including Marc Meneau at L’Esperance in France, Pierre Koffman at La Tante Claire, Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons and Marco Pierre White at The Oak Restaurant. William has won a variety of awards, including ‘The Craft Guild Pastry Chef of the Year’, ‘The Academy of Culinary Arts Award of Excellence’ and ‘British Dessert of the Year’. William Curley is passionate about chocolate making and his chocolates, pâtisseries and desserts are renowned the world over. William Curley opened his first shop together with his wife Suzue in Richmond in 2004.

About Suzue Curley.

Suzue Curley is a highly respected pâtissier. Originally from Osaka, Japan, Suzue moved to London in 1996 where she trained at Le Cordon Bleu. She has worked at Claridge’s and The Savoy where she was in charge of their world famous Afternoon Teas. She has won many national competitions including Gold at Hotelympia in 2000. Both William and Suzue have represented Scotland at international culinary events, winning Gold medals in Chicago and Basle, and at the Culinary Olympics in Germany.

www.williamcurley.co.uk

About TeaSmith.

TeaSmith is a contemporary teahouse where you can explore the world of exceptional teas in a unique, tranquil, and accessible environment. Tea experts are on-hand to help select the perfect tea for your taste, musical preferences, state of mind or even the weather. Our teas are sourced from individual tea farmers and selected for their integrity, quality of aroma taste and aftertaste, and experience.

www.teasmith.co.uk

MARCHIONESS BECOMES LATEST CRITIC IN THE ‘NOT SO PRIVATE LIFE OF PIGS’ FACTORY FARM PLANNING DISPUTE

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MARCHIONESS BECOMES LATEST CRITIC IN THE ‘NOT SO PRIVATE LIFE OF PIGS’ FACTORY FARM PLANNING DISPUTE.

Tonight’s edition of BBC Television’s ‘Private Life of Pigs’ with Jimmy Doherty, will almost certainly present pigs as the incredibly intelligent, social and sentient creatures that like nothing more than to root in the soil, a bit of fresh air and freedom to move.

Putting the spotlight on pigs in this way is, however, poles apart from the reality of how the majority of Britain’s pigs are reared in the nation’s factory farms. In order to compete with cheap imports, UK pig farmers have been forced to intensify production. Dark windowless sheds, where thousands of pigs are crammed into barren, concrete pens or forced to lie on straw less plastic or metal slats, is typical of the short life a British factory farmed pig experiences. Their lives are indeed private, for many factory farmers do not welcome public visits.

Not content with cramming 10,000 pigs onto a factory farm, a new US style, super sized factory farm is seeking planning permission to produce 50,000 pigs a year in South Derbyshire, which if successful will be Britain’s biggest factory pig farm.

The farm’s proposed greenfield site at Foston is adjacent to both a women’s prison and a number of residents. Whilst the prison authorities have remained tight lipped on the proposal, residents certainly haven’t and not only have they organised several local actions but, with NGO support, they have inundated the local council’s planning committee with letters of objection, successfully delaying judgement day for perhaps a few more months.

The latest opponent to voice her opposition to the proposal is the Marchioness of Worcester – aristocrat, filmmaker, supporter of sustainable farming and fierce critic of factory farming.

Better known as Tracy Worcester, she produced the film Pig Business, which exposed the damaging consequences factory pig farming can have on the world.

Following several trips to Poland and the USA she is an eye witness to the horrors of factory pig farming on the pigs themselves and on local people. Whilst there she visited several small communities, just like Foston, which have been dwarfed by huge, new pig factory farm developments. In these communities she concluded that these super-sized farms were bad for small-scale farmers, polluting to the environment, harmful to human health and detrimental to animal welfare. The net result was people, animals and the planet suffering from this style of industrial farming.

Tracy and the team at Pig Business believe the Foston application is a factory farm too far and are opposing the application. Whilst the plans have incorporated some new improvements for animal welfare and the environment, overall the proposal remains a factory farm, where thousands of pigs will spend their entire lives in an indoor, artificial environment.

Of most concern for Pig Business, is what this project could mean for human health and local farmers.

Having that number of pigs housed on one place, will increase the level of disease on the holding and, over time, is likely to pose a threat to the local community at the very least. While it may be true that the diseases found would not themselves spread through the air, it has been shown that antibiotic resistant bacteria from intensive farms can be spread from ventilator outlets by air currents to people living several hundred meters away. They can also pass to people in cars (even with the windows shut) when they have to travel behind lorries transporting such animals to other farms or to abattoirs, along both country roads and motorways. Antibiotic diseases, like the pig strain of MRSA, is a growing problem in countries that have these vast pig factories. So far, only 4 cases have been reported in the UK.

The fact that such a large farm could replace a significant number of cheap imported pork products, could be a red herring. It’s probable that a farm of this size (supported by both direct and indirect subsidies) will simply have a competitive advantage over most existing UK pig farms. As opposed to outcompeting Dutch, Danish, Polish or German producers, this system will create a fresh round of bankruptcies amongst pig farms, which just a few years ago would have themselves been considered large.

This would then create a situation where UK pig farmers will have to find a way of upgrading their farms to at least as big and mechanized as the one proposed in Foston.

Pig Business believes it’s vital these smaller farmers should be retained in the industry because some of them have the potential to change to free-range labour intensive systems, whereas enterprises of this scale never could.

The Marchioness of Worcester says,“Britain’s livestock farmers must resist the government, banks, supermarket and other corporate lobby’s rhetoric of green wash to super size their farms to US style operations. These aren’t farms, they are factories and whilst they can bring cheap food at the supermarket till, the costs of producing food in this manner are externalized on to the broader community, namely; the health of local farmers, residents and beyond, poor animal welfare, economic viability of small-scale farmers and local economies and a degraded environment.. Now the private lives of pigs have become public knowledge, so too must the plans for super sized pig factory farms”.