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Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Gateway Closes Door on Neighbourhood

By Elvis Glazier - While many people fled the Lower Mainland for the Victoria Day long weekend a group of concerned citizens took to the streets of Delta to raise awareness about the Gateway Project and the devastation the South Fraser Perimeter Road is having on the riverfront community of Sunbury. The Sunbury Neighbourhood Association (SNA)organized a Victoria Day tea party to let the government know that they were, "not amused."

The demonstration, which took place on the 10300 block of River Road, had a shaky start. Organizers arrived at the rally location, a couple of waterfront residential lots which had been bulldozed, to find that the site had been made completely inaccessible by industrial fencing and green fabric sheathing. "It's ridiculous", said Richelle Giberson, one of the tea party's organizers. "This lot has been vacant for a long time and now suddenly there's a fence? It seems a little suspicious to me."

(The Delta Free Press tried to track down someone at Ledcor CMI Ltd., the company in charge of the design and build of the 40km container truck route, to comment on the sudden closure but no one was available for comment at the time this story went to print.)

In the interest of public safety two sections of the fence were dismantled so attendees wouldn't be forced on to the busy River Road. The Delta Police were called to the site shortly after but immediately left when they discovered the Sunbury Neighbourhood Group had organized the event.

The rest of the Victorian style garden party went off without a hitch and was well attended by the public who seemed to show up in shifts. The fenceline was used as a backdrop for the information placards and banners that were set out for people to paint they're pleas to the Provincial Government to stop the impending development.

Ernie Baatz, a local resident and SNA member, is passionate when it comes to preserving the neighbourhood. "This highway is not wanted or needed. There is no demand for the container port expansion and the only people who will benefit from this project are the developers. The global economic crisis has reduced Asian shipments to an all time low and it is unlikely it will ever recover. Plus the increased capacities at other expanded ports, the widening of the Panama Canal, and the thawing of the East-West passage will make this port obsolete before the last piece of asphalt is rolled out."

"Who's brilliant idea was it to build a four lane container truck route beside an active rail line? If you need to move containers use the steel wheels on rails not rubber on asphalt." added Sue Hodges, a long time Tsawwassen resident who traveled from South Delta to support her neighbours in the North. "We're being let down by all levels of government. The provincial government is completely out of touch with reality and our Delta City Council is not being the stewards of the land that they used to be. Something strange is happening at City Hall."

These sentiments were repeated by everyone at the tea party. Of the 223 Delta properties required to complete the SFPR 155 have been acquired. Of these properties 64 homes are slated for destruction and at the time of this report 41 have seen the working end of a bulldozer and 34 of them in North Delta.

It's easy to understand what they are saying about their neighbourhood being destroyed when you're standing at ground zero amidst the ruin of what was once a vibrant part of Delta's history and heritage. Although the development seems relentless, the resolve and strength of character of the people fighting to save their neighbourhood can only be described as uplifting and hopeful and that is what truly makes a community!

DVD Releases Tuesday May 25, 2010

All My Friends Are Funeral Singers (2010) Angela Bettis, Emily Candini, Reid Coker, Kevin Ford. Rather than rattling old chains, the spirits in this film play experimental music in the upstairs bedroom of a psychic adviser's home. Zel the psychic is very good at her chosen profession, but she also receives some unique assistance. For as long as she can remember she has shared her home with a group of ghosts -- a priest, a bride, a mute child, some washed up vaudevillians and a noisy group of sight-impaired musicians -- who pass on incredible knowledge and abilities from beyond the world of the living. The ghosts came with the building, inherited by Zel from her mystic-minded grandmother, but now they want out. (IndiePix Films).
Ancients Behaving Badly: The Complete Season One (2009) Two-disc set with eight episodes, $24.95. (A&E Home Entertainment).
Bigger and Blackerer: David Cross (2010) Comedy DVD by the actor-comedian-writer taped during two shows at Boston's Wilbur Theatre, $14.98. (Sub Pop Records).
Butterfly Dreaming(2008) Andrew Bowen, Missy Crider, James McDaniel. Anxious dreams, hallucinations, and paranoid reality torment a young math professor in the aftermath of his wife's death in a car accident. (Vanguard Cinema).
By Brakhage: An Anthology, Volume 2(1955-2003) Criterion's first volume of the anthology "By Brakhage" brought 26 astonishing works by the avant-garde film pioneer Stan Brakhage to home video for the first time. In this second installment, Criterion presents 30 more of Brakhage's innovative creations, from 1950s films to his final work, from 2003. Highlights of this collection include the antiwar film "23rd Psalm Branch"; hand-painted films from the Persian Series; "The Wonder Ring," made for a commission by Joseph Cornell; the autobiographical "Scenes from Under Childhood, Section One"; his only found-footage film, "Murder Psalm"; and much more. New high-definition digital transfers of all 30 films. Extras: "Brakhage on Brakhage," a collection of video encounters with the filmmaker; "For Stan," a short film by Marilyn Brakhage; excerpts from a 1990 interview with Brakhage; footage from Brakhage's salon at the University of Colorado; audio recordings of two lectures by Brakhage; booklet featuring film program notes by Marilyn Brakhage and write-ups of the films by Brakhage expert Fred Camper. Volume 2 is available in a Blu-ray Disc set with Volume 1. (The Criterion Collection).
Call Me Madame (2008) In a small village in France, a 55 year-old Communist activist, married and father of a teenage son, becomes a transsexual with the help of his/her wife. "Call Me Madame," shot in 1986, is Francoise Romand's second documentary, after her famous "Mix-Up." In French with English Subtitles. $25.00. (Microcinema International).
Dear John(2010) Channing Tatum, Amanda Seyfried, Richard Jenkins, Henry Thomas, D.J. Cotrona, Cullen Moss, Gavin McCulley, Jose Lucena Jr., Keith Robinson, Scott Porter. Extras: Deleted and alternate scenes; alternate ending; outtakes; "A Conversation With Channing Tatum, Amanda Seyfried and Lasse Hallstrom"; "Transforming Charleston"; "Military in Movies: Dear John's Military Advisors"; "Mr. Tyree, The Mule, and Benny Dietz"; "The Story of Braeden Reed." Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Sony).
Dwizzle Dee -- Colors, Sizes, Songs & Imagination! (2010) A new preschool educational DVD series approved and endorsed by The Dove Foundation and KIDS FIRST! The DVD series teaches fundamentals such as colors, sizes and shapes with the help of characters Lenny, Penny and Gifford, and their teacher, Ms. Ashley. Featuring colorful live-action puppet characters together with animation, the series encourages children to participate in all of the fun and stimulating adventures in Ms. Ashley's classroom, using repetition, imagination, songs and fun problem solving. $14.95. Extras: Sing-a-long songs, printable coloring page, "El Gato," an animated video short of Frankie Corrigan's children's book "El Gato!"(Cinema Werx).
Flashpoint: The Second Season (2009) Two-disc set with 13 episodes, $42.99. Extras: Stunts and weapons featurettes. (Paramount).
Hard Ride to Hell (2010) Miguel Ferrer, Laura Mennell, Katharine Isabelle. After accidently witnessing a cruel human sacrifice, a group of defenseless campers find themselves on the run from a savage gang of Demon-worshiping bikers on the hunt for their next human offering. Spike TV original movie. (Vivendi Entertainment).
Hoarders (2009) Two--disc set with all seven Season 1 episodes, $19.95. (A&E Home Entertainment). I Know What I Saw(2009) Documentary featuring credible UFO witnesses from around the world telling stories that challenge reality. At the National Press Club in Washington D.C., director and host James Fox has assembled Air Force generals, astronauts, military and commercial pilots, government and FAA officials from seven countries to tell stories and share their experiences and observations about UFOs. $19.95. Extras: Out-takes and key witness interviews. (A&E Home Entertainment).
In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great (1998) Two-disc of the four-part miniseries. Combining popular history with adventure and travel, historian Michael Wood embarks on an Odyssey of discovery, following the ancient triumphal march of Alexander of Macedonia from Greece to India, to uncover the truth behind one of history's most famous and enigmatic heroes. $34.98. Extras: "Alexander's Greatest Battle," newly filmed interview with Wood. (Warner).
Leverage The Second Season (2009-10) Four-disc set with 15 episodes, $39.99. Extras: Commentary, Q&A with the series' creators, set tour, spoof video, Season Two wrap party, gag reel, behind-the-scenes featurettes. (Paramount).
Marked: The Complete Season One (2009) Two-disc set with six episodes, $19.95. (A&E Home Entertainment).
The Most Distant Course (2007 -- Taiwan) This critically acclaimed, modern story portrays three broken hearts that converge by destiny. A heartbroken sound technician can't get over the girl who leaves him without a word and he collects sounds on tape and sends them to her. A girl name Ryo receives the tapes by accident; she's involved with a married man, but temptation leads her to track down the tape's sender because the sounds continue to echo in her head. Meanwhile, a recently divorced psychiatrist embarks on a soul searching journey and meets the sound technician. Will these three lonely souls eventually find the place that is closest to their hearts? (Vanguard Cinema).
My Dog: An Unconditional Love Story (2009) Documentary explores the unique relationship between people and their beloved pets through candid interviews with notable dog lovers and intimate glimpses into the lives of actors and musicians, authors and designers, examining the profound connection they have with their dogs. Includes interviews with Glenn Close, Richard Gere and Carey Lowell, Edie Falco, Christopher Meloni, Isaac Mizrahi, Lynn Redgrave, Edward Albee, Greg Louganis, Richard Belzer, Cindy Adams, more. Twenty percent of every dollar earned by the film will be donated to nonprofit animal welfare charities designated by the participants. $26.95. Extras: Deleted scenes, additional interviews. (Docurama Films).
Mystery Team (2009) Donald Glover, D.C. Pierson, Dominic Dierkes, Aubrey Plaza, Matt Walsh. Follows the adventures of three high-school virgins who are stuck solving childish whodunit mysteries in their neighborhood. But when these bumbling boy detectives are tasked to investigate a real murder, they see the ultimate opportunity to prove themselves once and for all. Extras: Commentary from DERRICK Comedy members: Dan Eckman, Meggie McFadden, Dominic Dierkes, Donald Glover and DC Pierson; "The Making of Mystery Team"," deleted material reel of jokes and moments that were cut from the final film; preproduction test scene; "Sword Club" testament to some very special heroes who supported "Mystery Team" across America; "Who Is Wally Cummings?: The story of an enigmatic, creepy, and disputably talented character actor who visited the set of "Mystery Team." (Lionsgate),
NYC: Tornado Terror(2008) Nicole De Boer, Sebastian Spence. Global warming has caused a rift in the Earth's atmosphere, causing powerful tornadoes and deadly electrical storms to descend on Manhattan; only a quarreling deputy mayor and his meteorologist wife can save the city in this Syfy Channel movie. (Monarch Home Video).
Owl and the Sparrow(2007 -- Vietnamese) Cat Ly, Le The Lu, Pham Thi Han. In modern-day Saigon, three lonely strangers form a unique family as a 10-year old run-away plays matchmaker to a zoo keeper and a beautiful flight attendant. Extras: Commentary by writer-director Stephane Gauger, deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes featurette, still galleries. (Image Entertainment).
The Road (2009) Viggo Mortensen, Robert Duvall, Charlize Theron, Guy Pearce, Kodi Smit-McPhee. Extras: "The Making of The Road," deleted scenes, commentary by director John Hillcoat Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Weinstein/Sony).
Royal Pains: Season One (2009) Three-disc set with 12 episodes, Extras: Commentary, "Dr. Irv Danesh: The Real Doctor of Royal Pains," Paulo's video blogs. $59.98.(Universal).
Stagecoach (1939) This is where it all started. John Ford's smash hit and enduring masterpiece revolutionized the Western, elevating it from B movie to the A-list. The quintessential tale of a group of strangers thrown together into extraordinary circumstances -- nine passengers traveling a dangerous route from Arizona to New Mexico -- "Stagecoach" features outstanding performances from Hollywood stalwarts Claire Trevor, John Carradine, Thomas Mitchell, and, of course, John Wayne, in his first starring role for Ford, as the daredevil outlaw the Ringo Kid. Superbly shot and tightly edited, Stagecoach (Ford's first trip to Monument Valley) is Hollywood storytelling at its finest. New, restored high-definition digital transfer, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray edition. Extras: Commentary by noted western authority Jim Kitses; "Bucking Broadway" (1917), a 54-minute silent western by John Ford, with new music by Donald Sosin; extensive video interview with Ford from 1968; video interview with Dan Ford, biographer and grandson of the director, about Ford's home movies; video interview with filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich; video essay by writer Tag Gallagher; video feature about Monument Valley; video interview with stunt coordinator Vic Armstrong about "Stagecoach's" stuntman Yakima Canutt; radio dramatization of "Stagecoach" from 1949; booklet featuring an essay by David Cairns and the short story that inspired the film. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (The Criterion Collection).
Tell Tale (2009) Josh Lucas, Lena Headey, Brian Cox. Inspired by the Edgar Allan Poe story "The Tell-Tale Heart," this modern adaptation follows a single father whose recently transplanted heart leads him on a frantic search to find the donor's killer before a similar fate befalls him. Extras: Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Genius Products/Vivendi Entertainment).
True Blood: The Complete Second Season (2009) Twelve episodes, $59.99. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (HBO Home Video).
The Unidentified (2008) Jay Sullivan, Lauren Shannon, Erin Ecklund. An aspiring journalist comes of age midst a struggle between apathy and idealism in today's youth culture. (Vanguard Cinema).
The Virginian: The Complete First Season (1962-63) Ten-disc collector's set in an embossed tin package with all 30 episodes, restored and remastered, $79.98. Extras: All-new interviews with actors James Drury, Gary Clark, Roberta Shore, Robert Fuller and Peter Brown. (Timeless Media Group/NBC Universal).
Visions and Miracles(2010) Documentary that reveals modern day visions and miracles in Egypt never before seen in the Western world. (Vanguard Cinema).
Words of Advice: William S. Burroughs on the Road(2007) In 1983, the counter-culture icon and author of the cult classic "Naked Lunch" (1959), William S. Burroughs (1914-1997), traveled throughout Scandinavia making a series of personal appearances. Twenty years later, filmmakers Lars Movin and Steen Moller Rasmussen found never-before-seen footage of his Copenhagen visit and set out on the road to record new material, telling the story of the acclaimed author's later work -- especially what is known as "The Last Trilogy" -- and his unique performance skills. Extras: A nearly complete documentation of Burroughs' reading in Copenhagen, Oct. 29th 1983; a statement by Ann Douglas, professor at Columbia University, New York; two short tribute films: "One Shot I + II." $24.95. (Microcinema International).
The World of Buckminster Fuller(2007) Architect, engineer, geometrician, cartographer, philosopher, futurist, inventor of the famous geodesic dome and one of the most brilliant thinkers of his time, Buckminster Fuller was renowned for his comprehensive perspective on the world's problems. For more than five decades he developed pioneering solutions reflecting his commitment to the potential of innovative design to create technology that does "more with less" and thereby improves human lives. He spent much of his life traveling the world lecturing and discussing his ideas with thousands of audiences. Now more relevant than ever, this film by Robert Snyder captures Fuller's ideas and thinking told in his own words. $24.95. (Microcinema International).

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Tea Party to Save Sunbury

Queen Victoria We are Not AmusedIt would seem that Tea is becoming the drink of choice in British Columbia. The Liberal Party, under the leadership of Gordon Campbell, has incited a province wide 'Tea Party' with the tactics they have used to enact their hugely unpopular Harmonized Sales Tax and locally here in Delta with their Gateway development plans.

Paying homage to Queen Victoria on the long weekend that bares her name the Sunbury Neighbourhood Association (SNA) has decided to host their own tea party. "To express our royal displeasure with Gordon Campbell’s petulant scheme to pave over this historic landscape instead of preserving it as a Historic Waterfront Park", is the reason given on the official invitation to attend a tea party and banner painting party.

The event is a way to draw attention to what is happening in the North Delta community of Sunbury, and to provide an outlet for residents to voice their concerns with the South Fraser Perimeter Road project and frustrations with a provincial government that seems to be out of touch with the communities being affected by the development. “The government claims they do not have money for teachers, seniors, health care or public transit,” says Richelle Giberson, a Sunbury Neighbourhood Association member, “yet they plan to spend an estimated 1.3 billion dollars on a waterfront freeway. This really makes me question what our government’s priorities are.”

"The government has targeted about 75 homes to be destroyed in the Sunbury neighborhood and over 300 homes for the entire SFPR project. The Sunbury community is taking a big hit to make way for a four lane container truck route that nobody wants or needs. Delta Port is under capacity, the Port of Prince Rupert is running at 10% capacity, and their widening the Panama Canal. This road is completely useless and unnecessary. It only serves as a precursor to further industrial development to service the route. This (Liberal) government is just paying back the businesses that supported them with this development. Since the Campbell government has been in power, greenhouse gases have continuously risen despite their much publicized campaign to be the most environmentally responsible province in Canada," says tea party organizer and SNA member Ernie Baatz. “This beautiful and historic waterfront site is our local frontline in the struggle to stop global warming. Building a new four lane freeway when transit projects are being delayed for lack of funding violates the Liberals’ legislated commitment to reduce greenhouse gases 33 per cent by 2020. Making a waterfront park in our neighbourhood instead of a waterfront freeway is our way of thinking globally and acting locally. The tea party is a family friendly event and I would encourage families to attend."

UBC's Patrick Condon of the Design Centre for Sustainability is slated to speak to the group. Delta North MLA Guy Gentner will be attending but is not scheduled to make an address.

The event takes place Monday, May 24 between 1 and 3pm at the 10300 block of River Road, the sight of destroyed homes and the lot where the massive 'Climate Action Now" banner was unfurled during the recent 'Pilgrimage to the Bog'. Bring friends, family, painting clothes, freeway-busting ideas, slogans, cartoons, or whatever you fancy! Painting supplies and banners provided or bring your own plus a re-usable cup for this earth friendly event. Cucumber sandwiches and croquet are optional.

For more information:

http://sunburyneighbourhood.ca/GardenParty.htm

http://gatewaysucks.org/

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Episode 1 - Pilgrimage to Burns Bog

Karl Perrin Love Burns Bog

Hundreds of people gathered to show their support for the 'Pilgrimage to Burns Bog' and to voice their distaste for the Gateway project and the South Fraser Perimeter Road. Having already destroyed hundreds of acres of Canada's most fertile farmland it is likely the construction of the South Fraser Perimeter Road is going to damage or destroy a large section of the of the 'Lungs of the Lower Mainland' a name given to Burns Bog because of it's ability to absorb tremendous amounts of carbon.

Dubbed an 'interfaith pilgrimage' people from all walks of life attended the rally which began on the north side of the Alex Fraser bridge. As the protesters reached the summit of the bridge an enormous 'Climate Action Now' banner was unfurled on the south end of the bridge on empty lots where many houses have already been bulldozed to make way for the new container truck route.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

DVD Releases Tuesday May 18, 2010

American Bandits (2010) Peter Fonda, George Stults, Tim Abell, Jeffrey Combs, Anthony Tyler Quinn. Saga of Frank and Jesse James. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (E1 Entertainment).

The Barbara Stanwyck Show: Volume 2 Two-disc set with 12 of the 1960-61 series' most memorable half-hour dramas, previously unavailable, and restored and re-mastered for optimal viewing. The dramas include "Adventure on Happiness Street" starring Robert Culp and "Assassin" with Peter Falk. The set also includes the un-aired episode "Hong Kong and Joe" and a 16-page booklet. $29.98. (E1 Entertainment).

Barney: Let's Play Outside (2010) Barney and the gang celebrate warm weather and let their imaginations soar. Extras: "Which Bug Lives Here?" matching game. $14.98.(HIT Entertainment/Lionsgate).

Being a Friend (2009) Four adventures exploring the theme of friendship with Thomas & Friends, Bob the Builder, Barney, and Fireman Sam. $14.98. Extras: Bonus Angelina Ballerina episode. (HIT Entertainment/Lionsgate).

The Bible Stories: Jeremiah (1998) Patrick Dempsey, Klaus Maria Brandauer, Oliver Reed. $14.94. (Sony).

The Bible Stories: Solomon (1997) Ben Cross, Vivica A. Fox, Anouk Aimee. $14.94. (Sony).

Curious George: Goes to a Birthday Party! (2010) Eight episodes of the PBS KIDS TV series featuring Curious George as he takes a crack at a pinata, plans a surprise party, bakes a birthday treat, and more. $16.98. (Universal).

Defamation(2009) Intent on shaking up the ultimate "sacred cow" for Jews, Israeli director Yoav Shamir embarks on a provocative -- and at times irreverent -- quest to answer the question, "What is anti-Semitism today?" Does it remain a dangerous and immediate threat? Or is it a scare tactic used by right-wing Zionists to discredit their critics? Speaking with an array of people from across the political spectrum and traveling to places like Auschwitz and Brooklyn, Shamir discovers the realities of anti-Semitism today. His findings are shocking, enlightening and -- surprisingly -- often wryly funny. $24.95. (First Run Features).

The Disappeared(2008) Harry Treadaway, Greg Wise, Alex Jennings, Tom Felton. A young man -- responsible for the disappearance of his little brother at a playground years before -- is haunted by visions and voices that may or may not be his brother beckoning him. (IFC Films/MPI Media).

Dogora (2004) Acclaimed French filmmaker Patrice Leconte's ("Ridicule," "Girl on the Bridge," "Man On the Train" and "Monsieur Hire") documentary about Cambodia. During a visit there the director was inspired by the country and he created a sound and image voyage through the land and its people. From the city streets to rural villages, from factories to farmlands and beyond, Leconte explores the men, women and children of this ever-surprising Southeast Asia nation at work, play and peace, all moving at the speed of life. Features a symphony/choir score by French composer Etienne Perruchon. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Severin Films).

Eclipse Series 21: Oshima's Outlaw Sixties Often called the Godard of the East, Japanese director Nagisa Oshima was one of the most provocative film artists of the 20th century, and his works challenged and shocked the cinematic world for decades. Following his rise to prominence at Shochiku, Oshima struck out to form his own production company, Sozosha, in 1961. That move ushered in the prolific period of his career that gave birth to the five films collected here. Unsurprisingly, this studio renegade was fascinated by stories of outsiders -- serial killers, rabid hedonists, and stowaway misfits are just some of the social castoffs you'll meet in these audacious, cerebral entries in the New Wave surge that made Japan a hub of truly daredevil moviemaking. The five film: "Pleasures of the Flesh" (Etsuraku) (1965), "Violence at Noon" (Hakuchu no torima) 1966), "Sing a Song of Sex" (Nihon shunka-ko) (1967), "Japanese Summer: Double Suicide" (Muri shinju: Nihon no natsu) (1967) and "Three Resurrected Drunkards" (Kaette kita yopparai) (1968); $69.95. The Eclipse Series brings together the best of world cinema in bare bones editions. (The Criterion Collection).

Everyman's War(2009) Cole Carson, Lauren Bair. Directed by Thad Smith, this poignant film follows the story of his father, Staff Sgt. Don Smith, of the 94th Infantry Division, during the Battle of the Bulge in 1945. Extras: Behind-the-scenes featurette. (Virgil Films and Entertainment).

Extraordinary Measures (2010) Harrison Ford, Brendan Fraser, Keri Russell, Courtney B. Vance. Extras: "Extraordinary Measures: The Power to Overcome" featurette, "Meet John Crowley" featurette, deleted scenes. Also available on Blu-ray Disc, which adds movieIQ+sync and BD-Live. (Sony).

Fresh Prince of Bel-Air: The Complete Fifth Season (1994-95) Three-disc set with 25 episodes, $29.98. (Warner).

Gamera, the Giant Monster -- Special Edition (1965) Eiji Funakoshi, Harumi Kiritachi, Junichiro Yamashiko, Jutaro Hojo. The original Japanese version of the first Gamera movie, the unedited original version, with English subtitles, presented in anamorphic widescreen from a newly restored HD master. Extras: 12-page booklet with an essay by director Noriaki Yuasa,photo gallery, trailers, more. $19.93. (Shout! Factory).

The Girl on the Train (2009 -- France) Dir.: Andre Techine; Catherine Deneuve, Emilie Dequenne, Michel Blanc. A drama centered on a young woman who claims she was the target of an anti-Semetic attack and the subsequent media sensation it creates. (Strand Releasing).

The Greatest American Hero: Season One (1981) Two-disc set with 8 episodes, $14.98. (Mill Creek Entertainment).

The Greatest American Hero: The Complete Series (1981-83) Nine-disc set with all 43 episodes, $29.98.

Hunter: Season Two (1985-86) Four-disc set with 23 episodes, $14.98. (Mill Creek Entertainment).

Invictus(2009) Dir.: Clint Eastwood; Stars: Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon, Tony Kgoroge, Julian Lewis Jones, Marguerite Wheatley. Available as a standard DVD and Blu-ray/DVD combo. Extras: "Matt Damon Plays Rugby," "Invictus" music trailer. Blu-ray adds "Vision, Courage and Honor: Clint Eastwood and the Power of a True Story" featurette, PIP: Clint Eastwood explains in-depth what attracted him to this important story and how he brought it to life on film, "Mandela Meets Morgan" featurette, a shortened version of the Richard Schickel documentary "The Eastwood Factor." (Warner).

Law & Order: Criminal Intent -- The Fifth Year (2005-06) Five-disc set with 22 episodes, $59.98. (Universal).

The Louis L'Amour CollectionThree American Frontier classics: "The Sacketts" (starring Tom Selleck, Sam Elliott and Jeff Osterhage), "Conagher" (starring Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross) and "Catlow" (Yul Brynner, Richard Crenna and Leonard Nimoy), $19.97. (Warner).

The Messenger (2009) Ben Foster, Woody Harrelson, Samantha Morton, Jena Malone, Eamonn Walker. Extras: Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Oscilloscope Pictures).

Michael Jackson History: The King of Pop 1958-2009(2009) This feature-length tribute includes contributions from Janet Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, Quincy Jones, Diana Ross, Paul Gambaccini and more. Jackson's story is told through news reports, including never-before-seen footage. $6.99. (Echo Bridge Home Entertainment).

Misconceptions (2010) Orlando Jones, A.J. Cook, David Moscow, David Sutcliffe. The story centers on a religiously conservative, married southern woman who receives a message from God instructing her to act as a surrogate mother and carry a child for two married gay men who live in Boston -- a Jewish doctor and African-American dance choreographer. (E1 Entertainment).

Mr. Bump Presents: Planes, Trains and Dillymobiles! (2010) Six episodes from "The Mr. Men Show": "Car Wash," "Flying," "Trains," "Cars," "Boats" and "Inventions," $14.94. Extras: "Meet the Character" montage of character highlights, "Learn to Draw the Character," "Find the Character" game to find the character hidden in a picture, "Dance Sequenc"montage of musical segments. (Sony).

Murder in Fashion(2010) Jonathan Trent, Robert Miano, Stacey Dash, Cerina Vincent. True story of the murderous cross-country journey of gay party regular and aging boy toy Andrew Cunanan, who ended up in Miami and killed fashion designer Versace before taking his own life. (E1 Entertainment).

Pulling John (2009)Feature-length verite shot over four years that follows legendary armwrestler John Brzenk, a living legend in a sport he helped popularize and who has enjoyed a 25 year run as the undefeated arm wrestling champion of the world. Brzenk works as an airline mechanic by day and now must decide whether to leave the sport he was raised on. Taking a journey to the far corners of the world where men define themselves by trying to beat the undisputed champ, the film visits with 23 year old Alexy Voevoda from Sochi, Russia, and Charlestown, West Virginia's 26 year old Travis Bagent, colorful characters who have been raised on the legend of Brzenk. And, in a philosophical and thrilling ride through human nature, the film culminates at the Zloty Tur Championship in Warsaw, where Bagent and Voevoda have the chance of their life -- to dethrone the conflicted champion. $24.95. (IndiePix Films).

Southern Gothic (2007) Yul Vazquez, Nicole DuPort, William Forsythe, Dani Englander, Jonathan Sachar, Emily Catherine Young. In the appropriately named town of Redemption, a burnt-out, suicidal strip club bouncer trying to atone for the death of his daughter sees a glimmer of hope when a new stripper arrives looking for work, and he bonds with the woman and her daughter, giving him new meaning in life. Meanwhile, a fire and brimstone preacher -- who makes it his crusade to "save" the new stripper -- is attacked by a band of wandering vampires and turned into a bloodsucker, and now aims his blood lust at the young girl. Kooky. (IFC Films/MPI Media).

The Spy Next Door (2010) Jackie Chan, Madeline Carroll, Alina Foley, George Lopez, Billy Ray Cyrus, Amber Valletta, Katherine Boecher. Available on DVD and in a Combo pack with DVD and Blu-ray Disc.Extras: "Jackie Chan: Stunt Master and Mentor" featurette, "Adventures in Acting With the Kids From The Spy Next Door" featurette, blooper reel.(Lionsgate).

30 Days: The Complete Series(2005-07) Six-disc set with all 18 episodes of the Morgan Spurlock TV series that features a diverse group of participants, each given the opportunity to experience first-hand a world antithetical to their own comfortable existence. $29.99. Extras: Commentary on "Minimum Wage," "Anti-Aging," "Muslims and America," "Straight Man in a Gay World," "Immigration," "Jail," "Working on a Coal Mine," and "Life on an Indian Reservation"episodes; Diary Cam for Season 1 episodes. (Virgil Films & Entertainment).

21 Jump Street: Season Two (1987-88) Four-disc set with 22 episodes, $14.98. (Mill Creek Entertainment).

Valentine's Day(2010) Dir.: Garry Marshall; Stars: Jessica Alba, Kathy Bates, Jessica Biel, Bradley Cooper, Eric Dane, Patrick Dempsey, Hector Elizondo, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Topher Grace, Anne Hathaway, Ashton Kutcher, Queen Latifah, Taylor Lautner, George Lopez, Shirley MacLaine, Emma Roberts, Julia Roberts, Taylor Swift. Available as a Blu-ray combo pack with Blu-ray, DVD and Digital copy; also available as a standard DVD. Extras: Deleted scenes. Blu-ray adds "The Stars Confess Their Valentine's Day Stories," gag reel, Jewel's "Stay Here Forever" Music Video, "The Garry Factor," commentary. (New Line).

Waiting for Armageddon(2009) America's 50-million strong Evangelical community is convinced that the world's future is foretold in Biblical prophecy, from the Rapture to the Battle of Armageddon. "Waiting for Armageddon" explores this apocalyptic worldview, from the homefront in America to the future battlefield of Israel. By weaving Christian, Zionist and Jewish perspectives along with telling archival materials, this eye-opening film also probes the potentially explosive alliance between Evangelical Christians and Israel ... an alliance that may set the stage for what one Evangelical leader calls "World War III." $24.95. (First Run features).

Walkabout (1971) Dir.: Nicolas Roeg; Stars Jenny Agutter, Luc Roeg, David Gulpilil. A young sister and brother are abandoned in the harsh Australian outback and must learn to exist in the natural world, without their usual comforts. Along the way, they meet a young aborigine on his "walkabout," a rite of passage in which adolescent boys are initiated into manhood by journeying into the wilderness alone. "Walkabout" is a thrilling adventure as well as a provocative rumination on time and civilization. New, restored high-definition digital transfer, from a newly manufactured restoration element, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray edition. Extras: commentary featuring director Nicolas Roeg and actress Jenny Agutter; interviews with Agutter and actor Luc Roeg; "Gulpilil: One Red Blood" (2002), an hour-long documentary on the life and career of actor David Gulpilil; booklet featuring an essay by author Paul Ryan. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (The Criterion Collection).

Watercolors (2008) Tye Olson, Karen Black, Greg Louganis, Kyle Clare. Aided by three very different women, a gifted artist transcends the grief of losing his first lover. (E1 Entertainment).

The Whitest Kids U'know: The Complete Third Season: Uncut and Uncensored (2008) Two-disc set with 10 episodes, 24.98. Extras: Commentary, "Best of Season 2" featurette. (E1 Entertainment).

The World Unseen (2009) A drama centered on two women who engage in a dangerous relationship during South Africa's apartheid era. Shamim Sarif's motion picture adaptation of her critically acclaimed and award-winning debut novel, "The World Unseen," inspired by stories of her grandmother's life in 1950's South Africa. (E1 Entertainment).

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Delta Admits Survey Error for Tsawwassen Area Plan

Tsawwassen Area PlanIn response to the numerous problems and inaccuracies involving surveys collected regarding the future of the Southlands in Tsawwassen, Delta Mayor and Council agreed Monday night to discard the previous round of surveys and commission an outside company to redo the collection of public opinion.

This recommendation was put forward by Delta CAO, George Harvie. Mr. Harvie’s staff estimate the cost of hiring a survey firm ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the complexity of the survey.

“It is another example of taxpayers being forced to pay for Staff and Council’s ineptitude.” said Dana Maslovat, one of the organizers of Southlands the Facts. “The main question – whether the Southlands should remain designated as agricultural – could be asked at no significant cost during the upcoming by-election.”

Friday, May 7, 2010

Anti HST Petition Reaches 300,000 Mark

Bill Vander ZalmDelta – The Fight HST citizens Initiative petition to repeal the HST broke the 300,000 signatures mark as of Monday May 3, up an astonishing 155,000 signatures from last week’s total, says Fight HST Lead Organizer, Chris Delaney.

The Initiative, led by former BC Premier Bill Vander Zalm, has now been signed by approximately 10% of the registered voters across BC, Delaney said, with two months left before the July 5 deadline.

But there is still a long way to go, Delaney says, because the 10% total for the Initiative to succeed must be reached in every one of the 85 electoral districts in BC.

Delaney said the sheer size of the number of signatures this early in the petition drive shows that the BC Liberal government’s attempt to discourage and intimidate voters from signing has failed completely.

“If anything, the attacks last week by BC Finance Minister Colin Hansen have backfired, and more people than ever want to sign the petition and send the government a message that they won’t be bullied or threatened into accepting the Hated Sales Tax,” said Delaney.

Former BC premier, Bill Vander Zalm, who is leading the Fight HST forces, said he is encouraged by the number of young people now signing the petition.

“In Vancouver this weekend, we signed up another 2,000 people in one day, and the overwhelming majority were students and young people between the ages of 18-30. That is exciting,” said Vander Zalm.

Delaney says there are now 44 ridings that have reached the Elections BC 10% signature threshold, with 17 of those hitting the internal threshold of 15% set by the Fight HST group.

“Over half of BC’s 85 ridings have already reached the Elections BC target in just under four weeks of canvassing. With eight weeks to go, we are ahead of schedule for making our 15% in all 85 ridings,” Delaney explained.

Delaney says the strongest ridings signing up so far are BC Liberal strongholds like Shuswap, Kelowna, Peace River, Boundary Similkameen, and the Cariboo ridings. “But Skeena is now leading the pack with 30% of registered voters signing the petition. This is crossing all traditional political divides and demographics,” said Delaney.

Delaney says the petitioners still have a lot of work to do in Vancouver and Burnaby where organizers started late.

“We had the same issues in Coquitlam and Maple Ridge as well. But both of those regions are up and running now and catching up quickly. We expect the same will happen in the rest of the province over the coming weeks.”

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

DVD Releases Tuesday May 4, 2010

This week's DVD Releases
For the week of May 4, 2010

The Awkward Comedy Show (2010) Showcases the talents of five groundbreaking black comedians: Comic Marina Franklin interviews the Awkward Comics, whose ranks include alternative stand-up artists Victor Varnado, Hannibal Buress, Eric Andre and Baron Vaughn. $19.95. Extras: Commentary by producer-director-comedian Victor Varnado, producer Jay Stern and comedian Hannibal Buress; backstage footage with the comics; bonus interviews; bonus jokes. (New Video).

The Best of Elmo 2 (2010) Includes guest stars Jason Mraz, Adam Sandler, The Goo-Goo Dolls, David Beckham, more. $14.98. (Sesame Street/Warner).

Bound by a Secret(2009) Meredith Baxter, Lesley Ann Warren. A famous actress reveals to her best friend that she's dying, and the pair must reveal a shattering secret to the latter's grown daughter about the reality of her natural, and secret, parentage. (Vivendi Entertainment/Genius Products).

California Dreamin'(2007) Armand Assante, Jamie Elman, Razvan Vasilescu, Maria Dinulescu, Alexandru Margineanu, Ion Sapdaru. The fact-based story proves that truth is stranger -- and more absurd -- than fiction. In 1999, during the bloody civil war in Yugoslavia, a train with a platoon of American Marines is stopped in Constanta, Romania, with a shipment of military radar meant to be deployed near the Serbian border in support of NATO air raids. The Marines become the "guests" of a poor village filled with a frustrating bureaucracy, sexy young women on the make, black marketeers, arms dealers, and odd pop culture celebrations. Can Americans really bring order and hope to this chaotic part of the world, or is that just California dreamin'? First film by Romanian new wave filmmaker Cristian Nemescu, 27, who was killed in a car crash while the film was being edited. (IFC Films/MPI Media).

Dirty Dancing: Limited Keepsake Edition (1987) Patrick Swayze, Jennifer Grey, Jerry Orbach, Cynthia Rhodes, Kelly Bishop. Two-disc set. Extras: "Kellerman's: Reliving the Locations of the Film" featurette; "Patrick Swayze Tribute" featurette; "Dirty Dancing: The Phenomenon" featurette; "In Memoriam: Fan Reel"; "The Rhythm of the Dancing" featurette; commentaries; vintage featurette; Jennifer Grey screen test; cast and crew interviews; Emile Ardolino tribute; "Hungry Eyes" video; "She's Like the Wind" video; "I've Had the Time of My Life" video; trivia track; original screen tests (Patrick & Jennifer); "Dirty Dancing With Patrick" featurette; tribute to Jerry Orbach; deleted scenes; alternate scenes; extended scenes; outtakes; multi-angle dance sequence; "The Classic Story On Stage" featurette; interactive photo gallery. Also available on Blu-ray Disc, which adds "Dancing to the Music" featurette; never-before-seen stills gallery; Eleanor's Personal shooting script; "Dirty Dancing: Live in Concert." (Lionsgate).

Doctor Who: Dreamland(2010) New animated adventure voiced by David Tennant. The Doctor hooks up with two new companions -- Cassie and Jimmy -- as he's pitted against a new alien race, the monstrous Viperox, in Area 51 in 1958. Two-disc set, $24.98. Extras: "Doctor Who Greatest Moments," a three-part retrospective on the series since 2005 with hour-long pieces on The Doctor, The Companions and The Enemies. (Warner)

Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora Three digitally remastered Doctor Who classics: The Masque of Mandragora, The Curse of Peladon and The Monster of Peladon, $24.98. (Warner).

Doctor Zhivago 45th Anniversary Edition photo (1965) Omar Sharif, Julie Christie, Geraldine Chaplin, Rod Steiger, Alec Guinness, Ralph Richardson, Tom Courtenay. Restored and remastered. Two-disc DVD plus one CD. Extras: New documentary: "Doctor Zhivago: A Celebration Part 1 & 2." Also includes bonus features from the 2001 DVD edition: Commentary by Omar Sharif, Rod Steiger and Lady Sandra Lean (wife of David Lean); an introduction by Omar Sharif; "Doctor Zhivago: The Making of a Russian Epic"; and 11 vintage featurettes: "Zhivago: Behind the Camera With David Lean," "David Lean's Film of Doctor Zhivago," "Moscow in Madrid," "Pasternak," "New York Press Interviews Omar Sharif," "New York Press Interviews Julie Christie," "Geraldine Chaplin Screen Test," "This Is Omar Sharif," "This Is Julie Christie," "This Is Geraldine Chaplin," "Chaplin in New York." CD soundtrack sampler of the Oscar-winning score. Also available in a premium Blu-ray Book. (Warner)

The Dukes (2007) Robert Davi, Chazz Palminteri, Peter Bogdanovich, Miriam Margolyes, Melora Hardin, Frank D'Amico, Elya Baskin, Eloise DeJoria, Alphonse Mouzon, Dominic Scott Key. Wry comic tale of a down-and-out Doo Wop band -- once hit-makers in the 1960s but barely making ends meet in 2007 -- who take a bumbling detour into burglary on their endless quest to make good on their dreams. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (E1 Entertainment).

The Facts of Life: The Complete Fourth Season (1982-83) Four-disc set with 24 episodes, $39.97. Extras: "The Facts of Life Goes to Paris," "Know The Facts: Trivia Game." (Shout! Factory).

Fallen (2006) Paul Wesley, Fernanda Andrade, Bryan Cranston, Tom Skerritt, Ivana Milicevic, Rade Serbedzija, Monique Ganderton. Three-part ABC Family fantasy drama about Aaron, an Earth-bound nephilim -- half human, half angel -- caught up in the everyday problems of growing up, just as he is trapped in a celestial maelstrom between good and evil. As a biblical "Redeemer" who can return fallen angels to Heaven, Aaron holds the world's destiny in his hands as he battles warrior seraphs and ultimately confronts the diabolically proud angel that has tormented his dreams. Available as the entire series ($27.98), "Parts 1 and 2: The Beginning" ($19.98) and "Part 3: Destiny" ($19.98).(Image Entertainment).

Flicka 2 (2010) Patrick Warburton, Tammin Sursok, Emily Tennant, Clint Black. Extras: A "Conversation With Clint Black," "Running Wild: The North American Mustang," "Making Flicka 2," "Horsin' Around." (Fox).

Freud(1984) Two-disc set with the six-part BBC mini-series about the great psychoanalyst starring David Suchet, Michael Kitchen, Suzanne Bertish, Michael Pennington, Miriam Margolyes, Anton Lesser, David Swift. $34.98. (Warner).

Go, Diego, Go!: The Great Panda Adventure(2010) Nickelodeon's Diego and Baby Jaguar rescue animals all over the world in four new-to-DVD episodes: "All Aboard The Giant Panda Express," "Koala's Birthday Hug," "Leaping Lemurs" and "Diego Saves the Beavers"; $16.99. (Paramount).

Hamlet (2010) David Tennant, Patrick Stewart, The Royal Shakespeare Company. Premieres April 28 on PBS' Great Performances. Extras: Commentary, behind-the-scenes featurette. (BBC/Warner).

The Honeymooners Second Honeymoon(1976) In 1976, Jackie Gleason, Audrey Meadows and Art Carney reunited for four ABC specials representing the final performances of their classic "Honeymooners" characters. This is a new digital transfer of one of those specials. $14.98. (MPI Media Group).

The Honeymooners Valentine Special(1976) In 1976, Jackie Gleason, Audrey Meadows and Art Carney reunited for four ABC specials representing the final performances of their classic "Honeymooners" characters. This is a new digital transfer of one of those specials. $14.98. (MPI Media Group).

Iron Man Armored Adventures Season One (2009) Four-disc set with 26 episodes from the Nicktoons Network animated series, $29.93. Extras: Storyboards, original sketches of characters and vehicles, more. (Marvel Animation, Method Films, Genius Products, Vivendi Entertainment).

Iron Man: The Complete 1994 Animated Television Series (1994) Three-disc set with 26 episodes, $29.99. (Disney).

Ladies of the House(2008) Florence Henderson, Donna Mills, Pam Grier, Lance Henricksen, Richard Roundtree. Three women take on the daunting task of renovating a run-down house in order to raise funds for their church, and the project helps them examine challenges they are facing in their own lives. (Vivendi Entertainment/Genius Products).

Leap Year (2009) Amy Adams, Matthew Goode, Adam Scott, Bill Nighy, Kaitlin Olson, John Lithgow. Read more about "Leap Year" in the May Calendar. Extras: Deleted scenes. Also available on Blu-ray Disc, which adds BD-LIVE and pocketBLU mobile device connectivity. (Universal).

Marcus Welby, M.D.: Season One (1969-70) Seven-disc set with 27 episodes, $49.97. Extras: Rare episode, "The Daredevil Gesture," directed by Steven Spielberg; original two-hour pilot movie: "A Matter Of Humanities." (Shout! Factory).

Mars Rising (2007) Six part documentary series explores the challenges behind a potential manned mission to Mars; narrated by William Shatner; $24.98. (E1 Entertainment).

Matinee (2009) Dir.: Joe Dante; John Goodman, Cathy Moriarty, Simon Fenton, Omri Katz, Lisa Jakub, Kellie Martin. (Universal).

The Moment After 2: The Awakening (2006) David A.R. White, Brad Heller, Monte Perlin, Kevin Downes, Lonnie Colon. An apocalyptic suspense thriller in the tradition of the best-selling "Left Behind" series. This sequel picks up after the New World Order assumes control of all nations and a small band of Christians dedicated to keeping the word of God alive prepare to clash against the Global Alliance in the ultimate showdown of good versus evil. Extras: Filmmaker and cast commentary, "The Making of The Moment After 2: The Awakening," music video "Life Light" by Two Empty Chairs. (Affirm Films/Sony).

Murdoch Mysteries Season Two(2009) Four-disc set with 13 episodes of the Canadian series that follows Detective William Murdoch as he uses cutting-edge techniques like ballistics and profiling to solve crimes in Victorian-era Toronto. $59.99. Extras: Behind-the-scenes featurette, photo gallery, cast filmographies, character bios. (Acorn Media).

The Nanny Express (2008) Vanessa Marcil, Dean Stockwell, Stacy Keach. A young woman goes to work as a nanny for a widower whose two kids have already run off six other nannies, and she slowly wins over the entire family. (Vivendi Entertainment/Genius Products).

Nine(2009) Dir.: Rob Marshall; Stars: Daniel Day-Lewis, Marion Cotillard, Penelope Cruz, Judi Dench, Nicole Kidman, Sophia Loren, Kate Hudson, Fergie. Read more about "Nine" in the May Calendar. Extras: Commentary by director Rob Marshall and producer John DeLuca, "The Incomparable Daniel Day Lewis" featurette, "The Women of Nine" featurette, "Director Rob Marshall" featurette, "Behind the Look of Nine" featurette, "The Dancers of Nine" featurette, "The Choreography of 'Be Italian'" featurette, "Making of 'Cinema Italiano'" featurette, "The Choreography of 'Cinema Italiano'" featurette, "Cinema Italiano" music video, "Take It All" music video, "Unusual Way" music video. Also available on Blu-ray Disc, which adds "Sophia Loren Remembers Cinecitta Studios" featurette, Screen Actor's Guild Q&A Session, movieIQ?+sync featuring the "Nine" playlist. (Sony).

9 to 5: Days in Porn(2008) Portrait of the people who work in adult entertainment, a business bigger than the music industry. Filmed over a period of more than a year, 10 different stories unfold, delivering insight into the personal lives of people in the adult movie business, their hopes and their dreams. (Strand Releasing).

No Time for Sergeants(1958) Dir. Mervyn LeRoy; Andy Griffith, Myron McCormick, Nick Adams, Murray Hamilton, Don Knotts. First time on DVD, remastered and restored. (Warner).

On the Road With Charles Kuralt, Set Two award-winning journalist Charles Kuralt has been a household name for decades with his "On the Road" segments, first airing on the "CBS Evening News" with Walter Cronkite, and then as the first host of the "CBS News Sunday Morning." For 20 years beginning in 1967, Kuralt wandered America's byways in search of the unusual and the overlooked. He and his small crew logged more than a million miles and wore out six motor homes. For his homespun vignettes of everyday life, Kuralt won an Emmy and three Peabody Awards. Curious, generous, and always warm, Kuralt found everyone fascinating. The pieces here include segments on cowboys, traffic cops, short-order cooks, makers of corncob pipes, the 87-year-old college professor turned janitor who proclaimed "No honest work is undignified." He reported on a man who fixed toys, a farmer who carved slingshots, a Russian who waited 43 years to thank the American soldiers who saved his life. No story was too small, no person too ordinary. This three-disc set contains 18 episodes with a total of 86 classic "On the Road" pieces. $39.99. Extras: "About On the Road," "Road Updates," biography of Charles Kuralt. (Acorn Media).

Paper Covers Rock (2008) Jeannine Kaspar, Sayra Player, Clint Jordan. A troubled young woman fights for custody of her six year-old daughter. (IFC Films/MPI Media).

Penn & Teller B.S!: The Seventh Season (2009) Two-disc set with 10 episodes, $29.99. (Paramount).

Preacher's Kid(2010) Letoya Luckett, Gregory Alan Williams, Clifton Powell. Coming-of-age story about a small-town girl who leaves family and faith behind to pursue a dream of singing stardom. Available as a standard DVD and Blu-ray Combo Pack, which contains deleted scenes, "Music of Preacher's Kid," "The Prodigal Experience: Reflections on a Story," "LeToya Luckett: A Rising Star," "On Location in Atlanta," digital copy. (Warner Premiere).

Race to Mars(2007) Six extraordinary individuals from around the world are selected for a grueling two-year mission to Mars, where they must rise above their fears and sacrifice their lives in the face of overwhelming danger in this Canadian miniseries. (E1 Entertainment).

A Ripple of Hope(2008) Documentary about the aftermath of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4, 1968, including the riots and, in particular, the response of Robert Kennedy, who ventured into the heart of the Indianapolis inner city to give a scheduled speech to a potentially volatile crowd gathered in a park. Companion to PBS' "Roads to Memphis." (PBS).

Roads to Memphis(2009) Documentary examines the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4, 1968; $24.99. Companion to PBS' "A Ripple of Hope." (PBS).

Rock 'n' Roll High School 30th Anniversary Special Edition photo(1979) Executive produced by Roger Corman and directed by Allan Arkush, with explosive musical performances from the Ramones, T.S.O.L., The Vandals and D.I. Boasts performances by P.J. Soles in the lead role of Riff Randell, Vince Van Patten, Clint Howard , Dey Young, Mary Woronov, Dick Miller and Paul Bartel. Based on Arkush's own high school fantasy, this cult classic takes place at Vince Lombardi High School, the wildest, most rockin' high school around. That is, until a thug of a principal, Miss Togar, comes along and tries to make the school a totalitarian state. With the help of the Ramones, the students of Vince Lombardi battle Miss Togar's iron-fisted rule and take their battle to a truly rockin' conclusion. Bonus features: Special introduction and "Thank You" from director Allan Arkush; commentary by Arkush, producer Mike Finnell and screenwriter Richard Whitley; commentary by Roger Corman and Dey Young; commentary by Arkush, P.J. Soles and Clint Howard; "Back to School" retrospective with new interviews with Arkush, Corman, Joe Dante, Marky Ramone and More; "Staying After Class" roundtable interview with Soles, Van Patten and Young; interview with Corman conducted by Leonard Maltin; new interview with Arkush including a look at rare, behind-the-scenes stills from his personal collection; audio outtakes from The Roxy of The Ramones; "The Final Scene"; original radio ads and TV spots; additional Roger Corman trailers; more. Also available on Blu-ray Disc. (Shout! Factory: Roger Corman's Cult Classics).

Saturday Morning Cartoons 1980s: Volume 1 Two-disc set, $29.99. A diverse collection of 11 different shows. Disc One showcases such favorites as "Goldie Gold & Action Jack," "Chuck Norris: Karate Kommandos," "The Completely Mental Misadventures of Ed Grimley," "The Flintstone Kids" and "Mister T." Disc Two features such memorable shows as "The Biskitts," "Monchhichis," "Galtar and the Golden Lance," "Dragon's Lair," "Thundarr the Barbarian" and "Kwicky Koala Show." (Warner).

Suburbia Collector's Edition(1984) Written and directed by Penelope Spheeris featuring live performances by T.S.O.L., The Vandals and D.I., and starring Bill Coyne, Chris Pederson, Jennifer Clay and Christina Beck, "Suburbia" deftly explores the punk rock generation and follows the unforgettable journey of two teenage boys who escape their unhappy home and join a group of runaways, punks who have banded together to form their own family. Commentary by Spheeris. (Shout! Factory: Roger Corman's Cult Classics).

TCM Greatest Classic Films Here's another wave of two releases in the TCM Greatest Classic Films Collection, a collaboration between Turner Classic Movies and Warner Home Video to present low-priced collections of some of the greatest films of all to serve both serious film buffs and a new generation of movie lovers. Each four-disc set sells for $27.92. (Warner).

  • TCM Greatest Classic Films: War: "Battle of the Bulge," "The Dawn Patrol," "Gunga Din" and "Operation Pacific."
  • TCM Greatest Classic Films: Westerns: "Chisum," "Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid," "The Stalking Moon," "Ride The High Country."

Tokyo Sonata(2009 -- Japan) Teruyuki Kagawa, Kyoko Koizumi, Yu Koyanagi, Inowaki Kai. An ordinary Japanese family slowly disintegrates after its patriarch loses his job at a prominent company. Facing completely unfamiliar circumstances, he decides not to tell his family and begins his lonely sojourn into the world of the secretly unemployed. Best known in the United States for unsettling horror films like "Pulse" and "Cure," director Kiyoshi Kurosawa ventures away from the genre with this drama. Probing the dark side of human nature and the social problems that confront contemporary Japan, this highly acclaimed film was awarded the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival. Extras: Making-of featurette, Cannes Festival footage and panel interviews, interviews with the cast and crew. (E1 Entertainment).

Tooth Fairy (2010) Dwayne Johnson, Ashley Judd, Julie Andrews, Chase Ellison, Billy Crystal. Available as a three-disc combo pack (DVD, Blue-ray and digital copy) and a single-disc stanbdard DVD. Extras: DVD: "Train to be a Tooth Fairy" interactive feature, Fairy-oke. Blu-ray adds gag reel, deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes featurette, "Behind the Scenes With Lem and Jake," "Lem and Jake Talk About VFX: Before and After," "1st Assignment" with Storyboards, "Wings and Fairy Things: Costume Design," "Flights, Tights and Fairy FX: How the Magic Was Brought to Life," "Creating Fairyland: Production Design." (Fox).

Virtuality(2009 -- TV) Clea DuVall, Joy Bryant, Sienna Guillory, Ritchie Coster, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau. Twelve extremely talented men and women have been chosen to be part of the Phaeton mission, a 10-year trek to explore a distant planetary system, but as the ship approaches a critical phase of the journey, a deadly flaw is discovered in the virtual system, forcing the crew to question if someone onboard might be a killer. (Universal).

Working Miracles(2010) Eddie Cibrian, Patrick Duffy. After an accident, an ordinary man finds that he has the ability to heal others, but each time he does so he depletes his own life energy. (Vivendi Entertainment/Genius Products).

X-Men: Vol. 5 (1996-97) Two-disc set with the final 14 episodes, $23.99. (Disney).

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Delta Doesn't Credit Burns Bog Society For Their Work

Editor:

An open letter to Lois Jackson, the City of Delta mayor from Sonia Nazar, Administrative Assistant at Burns Bog Conservation:

Mayor Jackson:

I have had the chance to see your lovely website www.burnsbog.ca.

What I don't understand is why the Burns Bog Conservation Society is not mentioned anywhere on the site.

The bog would have been developed if it wasn't for a group of concerned citizens that stopped it and fought for the governments to purchase it. This group of people became the Burns Bog Conservation Society.

It is also the Society that built the board walk that goes through the Delta Nature Reserve and maintains it (along with other things in the park) with out any funding from the Corporation of Delta. The funding comes from outside grants and donations.

When I saw this website, it made me feel that you as the Corporation of Delta made it all possible.

In your chronology of events there is not mention even of the group of concerned citizens that fought for it prior to 1988, nor the mention that it was the Burns Bog Conservation Society that invited Dr. David Bellamy in 1995 to come to the bog and he advises that it needs to be saved.

I must admit that I currently work for the Society. But until I started working with them, I didn’t realize how much work volunteers like Eliza Olson, Wally Davyduke and many others (too many to name) have done for Burns Bog.

Not only countless hours of their time, but moneywise too, so everyone can can continue to enjoy the bog and see why the bog is so valuable to us.

Burns Bog Conservation Society continuously is educating members of the government/politictions and the public on the importance of the bog through tours and presentations. But there is no mention of this on your website.

You must credit the Society on this website, or you will continue to mislead people to believe that you alone have done such wonderful things for the “Lungs of the Lowermainland”.

Sincerely,

Sonia Nazar

Surrey, BC

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Hundreds Line Up for Local Dance Revue

Deas Island Dance Line upDeas Island - Hundreds were on hand to buy tickets for this years dance presentation of the Wizard of Oz. The line up of eager parents extended from the front entrance of the Deas Island Dance Studio, located in the industrial complex behind the Primrose Restaurant, down the front of the building and around the corner of the building. Tickets went on sale at 10:30am but the wait for some willing enough to brave the chilly weather began at 4:30am. By 7am there were over a dozen and by 10am well over a hundred.

Tickets were only on sale to the parents of the performers and were limited to ten tickets per family. Even with the limits in place, those showing up closer to the ticket counter opening were shocked to find out they would be watching their children from the side aisles of the Genesis Theatre.

Deas Island Dance Studio puts on a year end production every spring and it is always well attended. Parents have two more opportunities to purchase tickets on Monday May 3rd between 3:30 - 5:30 and on Thursday May 6th between 6:30 - 8:30. Tickets to the general public go on sale May 15th. The show runs from June 3rd to June 6th at the Genesis Theatre.