The annual Independence Day celebration will air Saturday, July 4, 8:00-9:30 PM ET on most PBS stations (check local listings). The 29th concert will also be broadcast to our troops overseas via the American Forces Radio and Television Network. You can also listent to the concert live on NPR stations across the country.
Jimmy Smiths returns as the concert's host. Among the guest stars are Elmo and other Sesame Street characters, including Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and Oscar the Grouch, who'll sing for the crowd. The iconic children's show is now in its 40th year.
Joining them in the celebration of America's 233rd birthday are the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin; the cast of Jersey Boys; Michael Feinstein; classical pianist Andrew von Oeyen; and Natasha Bedingfield. Barry Manilow will open and close the concert broadcast with a medley of patriotic classics and hit songs. The National Symphony Orchestra and Choral Arts Society of Washington will, of course, perform throughout the concert.
The skyline of the nation’s capital will come alive with vibrant and booming pyrotechnics, set against silhouettes of national landmarks the U.S. Capitol, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials. A Capitol Fourth will capture this stunning fireworks display from every vantage point with eighteen TV cameras stationed around the city – including the U.S. Capitol, the White House, the Washington Monument and across the Potomac River. Capping off the show will be a rousing rendition of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” complete with live cannon fire provided by the United States Army Presidential Salute Battery, an audience favorite and now A Capitol Fourth tradition. Also participating in the event will be The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, The U.S. Army “Old Guard” Fife and Drum Corps and the Armed Forces Color Guard provided by the Military District of Washington, D.C.
Commented Smits, “I am honored to be asked once again to host this year's special party to celebrate our great country's birthday…and what a 'guest list!' The music itself embraces so many genres – we’ve got pop, we’ve got classical and we’ve got soul. Throw in an anniversary celebration of Sesame Street, topped off with the biggest fireworks display around and we’ve got quite a show!”
A Capitol Fourth is a co-production of Jerry Colbert of Capital Concerts and WETA, Washington, D.C.
A Capitol Fourth 2009 is made possible by grants from The Boeing Company, the National Park Service, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the Department of the Army, the National Endowment for the Arts, PBS and public television stations nationwide. Air travel is provided by American Airlines.
Photo (c) 2009 PBS. All rights reserved.
Source: PBS Press.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Capitol Fourth '09
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Merlin: Ep. 102
Valiant
Series Premiere, Pt. 2
June 21, 8:00 PM ET - NBC
With a shield of magical snakes, evil Knight Valiant (Will Mellor) arrives in Camelot to enter the annual sword-fighting tournament where he’ll face reigning champion, Arthur (Bradley James). Meanwhile, Merlin (Colin Morgan) comes to terms with his duties of being Prince Arthur’s new man-servant and brings to Arthur’s attention some valuable information about Knight Valiant. When they can’t prove anything to Uther (Anthony Head), Arthur is humiliated and fires Merlin. Can Merlin save Prince Arthur without revealing his magical powers? Richard Wilson, Katie McGrath and Angel Coulby also star.
Rated: TVPG.
Merlin: Ep. 101
Call of the Dragon
Series Premiere, Pt. 1
June 21, 7:00 PM ET - NBC
With a letter from his mother revealing his innate ability to practice magic, Merlin (Colin Morgan) arrives in the city of Camelot to find Gaius (Richard Wilson), the Court Physician. Gaius takes Merlin under his wing to keep him out of trouble. Eager to discover his new surroundings, Merlin sets out to see the sites of Camelot and meets Arthur (Bradley James), a young bully who challenges him to a duel. After being thrown in jail for standing up to Arthur, Merlin attracts the attention of others in Camelot, including Gwen (Angel Coulby), Morgana’s (Katie McGrath) young maid and most importantly, King Uther Pendragon (Anthony Head), who will forever change the course of Merlin’s destiny.
Rated: PG.
Merlin: The Series
NBC continues their tradition of airing adaptations of classic stories. Last Fall, it was Robinson Crusoe. This summer, it's Merlin, premering Sunday, June 21, 7:00-9:00 PM ET/PT. The series will air on CTV in Canada.
Set in the mytical kingdom of Camelot before history began, legendary beasts and mysterious people lived in a dangerous land where magic has been banned. Camelot is ruled by the tyrant Uther Pendragon.
Merlin is a young man gifted with magical powers. When he comes to Camelot, he quickly makes enemies, including Prince Arthur, the heir to Uther's crown. But Uther's physician, Gaius, befriends Merlin, who quickly learns not only how to defend himself with his powes, but also how to unlock the secrets of Camelot. Surprisingly, one of those secrets is that he and Prince Arthur must share destiny.
The series stars Colin Morgan as Merlin, Bradley James as Prince Arthur, Anthony Head as King Uther, Richard Wilson as Gaius, Katie McGrath as Morgana and Angel Coulby as Gwen, “Merlin” is an imaginative and enthralling new twist on a legend that is as old as time.
"Merlin" is produced by the award-winning team behind Hex and Sugar Rush, Julian Murphy, Johnny Capps, Jake Michie and Julian Jones and directed by James Hawes.
More about the series can be found at NBC's website.
Casting Calls - The Biggest Loser
Audtions begin June 27 for the ninth season of The Biggest Loser. Casting teams will be visiting Chicago, Detroit, San Jose, Tampa, Atlanta, Mobile, New York City, San Antonio, Dallas, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Oklahoma City, Des Moines, and Los Angeles. Season 9 premieres in early 2010 (Season 8 begins this September.)
Casting producers are looking for outgoing and charismatic family teams of two, especially those who have the personality, desire and competitive edge to vie for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lose weight, change their lives forever and compete for a grand prize of $250,000. Individuals who don't have a partner can audition on their own. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age and legal residents of the United States.
Casting teams will try to see everyone, especially the first 500 people in line. Lines will not be allowed to start until three hours before the open calls begin. Each candidate should bring a photograph of them and their partner. Photos are not returnable.
June 27
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Chicago
NBC Tower
454 N. Columbus Drive
Chicago, IL 60611
June 27
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Detroit
Gardner White Furniture
45300 Hayes Rd.
Macomb, MI 48044
June 27
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
San Jose
24 Hour Fitness
1610 Crane St.
San Jose, CA 95112
June 27
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tampa
Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center
1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place
Tampa, FL 33602
July 11
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Atlanta
Dave & Buster's
4000 Venture Dr.
Duluth, GA 30096
July 11
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Mobile
Veets Bar And Grill
66 South Royal Street
Mobile, AL 36602
July 11
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
New York City
NBC Experience Store
30 Rockefeller Plaza
New York City, NY 10112
July 11
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
San Antonio
Nix Downtown
414 Navarro
San Antonio, TX 78205
July 18
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Dallas
Dave & Buster's Stemmons
10727 Composite Drive
Dallas, TX 75220
July 18
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Kansas City
Nebraska Furniture Mart
1601 Village West Parkway
Kansas City, Kansas 66111
July 18
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Philadelpha
NBC 10
10 Monument Rd.
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
July 18
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Phoenix
Radisson Fort McDowell Resort & Casino
10438 N Fort McDowell Rd.
Fort McDowell, AZ 85264
July 25
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Oklahoma City
TBA
July 25
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Des Moines
Valley West Mall
1551 Valley West Drive
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Aug. 1
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Los Angeles
Citadely Outlets
100 Citadel Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90040
To check for the latest updates and casting calls, or for information on how you can apply, if you cannot make one of the open casting calls, visit www.nbc.com/casting and www.thebiggestlosercasting.com.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Hop on Board Songs and Stories
Thomas and Friends' newest release is a delightful music-filled compiliation of favorite songs and scenes from the series. An added bonus are two stories narrated by the rich, deep voice of the late George Carlin!
The songs are subtitled, helping readers sing-along and read-along. However, the lyrics are sung clearly enough that even non-readers will learn them.
This DVD was originally titled "Formerly titled Thomas & Friends Sing-Along and Stories."
DVD Synopsis
It’s a magical musical ride when Thomas and his engine friends travel the tracks on the Island of Sodor with the toe-tapping DVD+Bonus Music CD Set, Thomas & Friends™: Hop on Board Songs and Stories, steaming into stores June 16, 2009 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. The set is fully-loaded with fan favorites including 2 classic Thomas & Friends stories, 7 sing-alongs and a bonus music CD featuring 5 songs!
Teaching timeless life lessons of discovery, friendship and cooperation, the Thomas & Friends animated series invites children to enter a world of imagination through the tracks of a train and the words of a story.
Life on the Island of Sodor is extremely busy for the engines. While Thomas and his friends are hard at work, they like to listen to music and sing-along. Now you can join in on all the fun with this DVD collection of Thomas & Friends songs and episodes, including a bonus music CD featuring 5 songs: “The Roll Call Song,” “Let’s Have a Race,” “Toby,” “The Island Song” and “He’s a Really Useful Engine.”
Follow the bouncing steam cloud to read the words and sing along to Thomas’ Anthem, “Let's Have a Race,” “Gone Fishing” and four other Island of Sodor favorites. You’ll also enjoy two classic Thomas & Friends episodes “Peter Sam and the Refreshment Lady” and “Bulldog”, as well as a bonus sing-along, "It’s Great to Be an Engine.” Hop on board for toe-tappin’ fun with Thomas & Friends: Hop on Board Songs and Stories.
Rating: NR
Genre: Children/Family/Ages 2-5
Closed Captioned: English Closed Captioned
Format: Full Screen
Feature Running Time: 60 minutes
DVD Audio Status: 2.0 Dolby Digital
Thomas & Friends: Hop on Board - Songs and Stories
Sing and Dance with Barney
Children will thoroughly enjoy singing and dancing along with Barney and friends as they watch "Sing and Dance with Barney," released June 16, 2009. A music CD with selected songs from the DVD is included.
Synopsis
Come celebrate with Barney as he plans a very special sing-along party and invites many of his friends in Barney: Sing & Dance with Barney, available in stores June 16, 2009 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. The group sings some of their all-time favorites, such as “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” “B-I-N-G-O” and “Twinkle Twinkle, Little Star,” while being transported to some Tee-riffic places, such as a farm, a campsite in the woods and a storybook land. There are over 55 minutes of singing and dancing to 20 of Barney's favorite melodies. As an added bonus, each DVD includes a free music CD featuring 5 songs: “The Clapping Song,” “Twinkle Twinkle, Little Star,” “The More We Get Together,” “If You’re Happy and You Know It” and “You Can Count On Me.” This is a celebration no Barney fan will want to miss!
DVD Special Features
Interactive Matching Game
Catch up with the Barney Reunion Cast
Barney Boogie Music Video
Barney: Sing and Dance with Barney
Thursday, June 4, 2009
American Idol Audtions Begin
Kris Allen has been the Season 8 American Idol for less than a month, and already the search is on for the next. AI begins Season 9 auditions in Boston on June 14. Wristbands will be distributed from 7:00 AM on Friday, June 12 until 8:00 AM on Sunday, June 14. Auditioners will not be permitted to camp out. Once auditioners obtain their wristbands, they will be asked to return to Gillette Stadium by 5:00 AM on Sunday, June 14.
American Idol Audition Itinery
Boston, MA
Sunday, June 14
Gillette Stadium
One Patriot Place
Foxborough, MA 02035-1388
Atlanta, GA
Thursday, June 18
Georgia Dome
Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday, June 30
Rose Bowl
Orlando, FL
Thursday, July 9
Amway Arena
Denver, CO
Tuesday, July 14
INVESCO Field at Mile High
Chicago, IL
TBD
TBD
Dallas, TX
TBD
TBD
Men and women 16-28 years old as of June 12, 2009, and who are eligible to work in the U.S., can audition. There are some restricitions, so please check americanidol.com for more details and any forms you may need. If you are not auditioning in Boston, check the American Idol website for changes in venue, dates, etc.
Global TV Fall 2009 Primetime Schedule
Canwest has announced the Fall 2009 schedule for Global TV. Returning shows include House, Lie to Me, NCIS, Bones, The Office, Survivor, Heroes, Brothers & Sisters, Family Guy and The Simpsons.
New shows included the much-buzzed about Glee, as well as the Family Guy spin-off, The Cleveland Show, based on the popular character, Cleveland Brown. Another promising spin-off, NCIS: Los Angeles joins Global's schedule, starring LL Cool Jay and Chris O'Donnell. Julianna Margulies stars in the new drama, The Good Wife, about a politician's wife, who must pick up the pieces after his scandalous conviction. And, the remake of Melrose Place will add a bit of spice to the night.
Global Fall 2009 Schedule
All times are ET and subject to change.
Mondays
7:00-7:30 PM - Entertainment Tonight Canada
7:30-8:00 PM - Entertainment Tonight
8:00-9:00 PM - House
9:00-10:00 PM - Lie To Me
10:00-11:00 PM - Brothers & Sisters
Tuesdays
7:00-7:30 PM - Entertainment Tonight Canada
7:30-8:00 PM - Entertainment Tonight
8:00-9:00 PM - NCIS
9:00-10:00 PM - NCIS: Los Angeles (new)
10:00-11:00 PM - The Good Wife (new)
Wednesdays
7:00-7:30 PM - Entertainment Tonight Canada
7:30-8:00 PM - Entertainment Tonight
8:00-9:00 PM - Bones
9:00-10:00 PM - Glee (new)
10:00-11:00 PM - Melrose Place (new)
Thursdays
7:00-7:30 PM - Entertainment Tonight Canada
7:30-8:00 PM - Entertainment Tonight
8:00-9:00 PM - Survivor: Samoa (Season 19)
9:00-9:30 PM - The Office
9:30-10:00 PM - SNL Updates
10:00-11:00 PM - 90210
Fridays
7:00-7:30 PM - Entertainment Tonight Canada
7:30-8:00 PM - Entertainment Tonight
8:00-9:00 PM - The Guard
9:00-10:00 PM - Dollhouse
10:00-11:00 PM - Numb3rs
Saturdays
7:00-7:30 PM - Renegade Press
7:30-8:00 PM - The Jane Show
8:00-10:00 PM - Movie
10:00-11:00 PM - Project Runway Canada
Sundays
7:00-7:30 PM - Producing Parker
7:30-8:00 PM - King of the Hill
8:00-8:30 pm - The Simpsons (Season 21)
8:309:00 pm - The Cleveland Show (new)
9:00-9:30 PM - Family Guy
9:30-10:00 PM - American Dad
10:00-11:00 PM - Heroes
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
A's 2009-2010 Programming
June 2, 'A' announced its programming for 2009-2010.
Fall 2009 Primetime Schedule
All times are ET and subject to change. Premeiere dates will be announced later this summer.
Sundays
7:00-8:00 PM - TMZ Weekend
8:00-9:00 PM - America's Next Top Model
9:00-10:00 PM - Law & Order: SVU
10:00-11:00 PM - Spectacle: Elvis Costell With... (Encore)
Mondays
7:00-7:30 PM - Degrassi: The Next Generation
7:30-8:00 PM - TMZ
8:00-9:00 PM - Gossip Girl
9:00-9:30 PM - Two-and-a-Half Men
9:30-10:00 PM - Big Bang Theory
10:00-11:00 PM - Castle
Tuesdays
7:00-7:30 PM - Degrassi: The Next Generation
7:30-8:00 PM - TMZ
8:00-9:00 PM - Monk
9:00-11:00 PM - The Big Picture
Wednesdays
7:00-7:30 PM - Degrassi: The Next Generation
7:30-8:00 PM - TMZ
8:00-8:30 PM - Hank (new)
8:30-9:00 PM - The Middle (new)
9:00-10:00 PM - The Beautiful Life (new)
10:00-11:00 PM - Eastwick (new)
Thursdays
7:00-7:30 PM - Degrassi: The Next Generation
7:30-8:00 PM - TMZ
8:00-9:00 PM - Flash Forward (new)
9:00-10:00 PM - Fringe
10:00-11:00 PM - Private Practice
Fridays
7:00-7:30 PM - Degrassi: The Next Generation
7:30-8:00 PM - TMZ
8:00-9:00 PM - Law & Order
9:00-10:00 PM - Medium
10:00-10:30 PM - Comedy Now!
10:30-11:00 PM - Comedy Inc.
Saturdays
7:00-8:00 PM - Road to Avonlea
8:00-10:00 PM - Saturday Night Movie
10:00-11:00 PM - Whistler
Additionally, General Hospital will move to weekday afternoons beginning Sept. 14.
CTV's 2009-2010 Fall Programming
CTV and A TV's Upfronts were held June 2. The executives pitched their wares to advertisers promising their schedules had the most Top 20 shows. CTV's schedule was "...designed to win every timeslot, night after night, week after week." The statements sounds weary. CTV and its sister networks have been promoting a grass roots initiative to persuade the Canadian government to allow broadcast networks and local stations to charge cable and satellite providers to air their programming. This would lessen the television broadcast industry's dependence on advertising dollars.
Nevertheless, the CTV schedule continues to combine its popular blend of pop culture and old favorites.
2009 Fall Primetime Schedule
All times are ET, and subject to change. Premeire dates will be announced later this summer.
Sundays
7:00-7:30 PM - Degrassi: The Next Generation
7:30-8:00 PM - Degrassi: The Next Generation
8:00-9:00 PM - The Amazing Race
9:00-10:00 PM - Desperate Housewives
10:00-11:00 PM - Cold Case
Mondays
7:00-7:30 PM - Etalk
7:30-8:00 PM - Access Hollywood
8:00-10:00 PM - Dancing with the Stars (new network)
10:00-11:00 PM - CSI: Miami
Tuesdays
7:00-7:30 PM - Etalk
7:30-8:00 PM - Access Hollywood
8:00-9:00 PM - So You Think You Can Dance Canada
9:00-10:00 PM - Dancing with the Stars Results Show (new network)
10:00-11:00 PM - Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
Wednesdays
7:00-7:30 PM - Etalk
7:30-8:00 PM - So You Think You Can Dance Canada Results Show
8:00-9:00 PM - America's Next Top Model (new network)
9:00-10:00 PM - Criminal Minds
10:00-11:00 PM - CSI: New York
Thursdays
7:00-8:00 PM - The Vampire Diaries (new)
8:00-9:00 PM - CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
9:00-10:00 PM - Grey's Anatomy
10:00-11:00 PM - The Mentalist
Fridays
7:00-7:30 PM - Etalk
7:30-8:00 PM - Access Hollywood
8:00-9:00 PM - Ghost Whisperer
9:00-10:00 PM - Southland
10:00-11:00 PM - Flashpoint
Saturdays
7:00-8:00 PM - W-FIVE
8:00-9:00 PM - Crimetime Saturday (Rotating Encores)
9:00-10:00 PM - Crimetime Saturday (Rotating Encores)
10:00-11:00 PM - Law & Order: SVU Encores
CTV's daytime schedule will see Dr. Mehmet C. Oz replace General Hospital. The venerable soap will move to 'A'. "The Dr. Oz Show" is a health and wellness talk show produced by Oprah's Harpo Productions and Sony Picture Entertainment. Beginning Sept. 14 at 5:00 PM ET, Dr. Oz will follow the broadcast of Oprah.
Special events include the September premiere of the CTV original movie, Paradise City: Degrassi goes to Hollywood. CTV will also host the 82nd Annual Academy Awrds, Super Bowl XLIV, The 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards, The 2010 Juno Awards, and The Scotiabank Giller Award. Of course, they are the home of the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver and 2012 Olympics in London, England.
CTV also confirmed that Brent Butt is the creator, executive producer and writer of "Hiccups." The 13-part comedy series stars Nancy Robertson (Corner Gas) as a children's author who employs Butt as her life coach to help her control her anger.
Dan for Mayor is another 13-part comedy series in production for CTV. This is from writers and producers Mark Farrell, Paul Mather, and Kevin White. Fred Ewanuick, also from Corner Gas, stars as a bartender who runs for mayor.
In Addition to W-FIVE, ETalk, Canada AM, Question Period, CTV Evening News and CTV National News with Lloyd Roberts also return to their respective times.
Source: CTV Media
Happy B'Day Cnn
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, today is the 29th anniversary of the launch of CNN, the first 24-hour news network. Additional data says that only one-fifth of American households had cable in 1980. Now, it reaches almost three quarters of our homes.
Ted Turner's experiment was not expected to succeed. But, we wonder how much such easy access to national and world events and crisis helped cable expand the number and types of stations available.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Crimes of Fashion
No, we're not talking about faux pas or horrible designs. We're talking about Lifetime Movie Network's adaptations of two books from Ellen Byerrum's "Crime of Fashion" mystery series. Both "Killer Hair" and "Hostile Makeover" are part of LMN's Best Seller Summer. Other Films coming up this summer include movies based on Ann Rule's books "Too Late to Say Goodbye," starring Rob Low, and "Everything She Ever Wanted, starring Gina Gershon and Victor Garber.
Killer Hair
Premieres Sunday, June 21, 8:00 PM ET/PT
Lifetime Movie Network
Lacey Smithsonian (Maggie Lawson, Psych) is a fashion columnist for a Washington, D.C., newspaper who ends up reporting on more than just style when dead bodies keep mysteriously crossing her path. Believing you are what you wear - and that everything you wear is a fashion clue - Lacey uses her style-savvy sense to get to the bottom of the murders that have taken place at her girlfriend Stella's (Sadie LeBlanc, Rumours) hair salon. As Lacey continues to follow the killer's trail, she must stay out of her newspaper's ego-driven crime reporter's (Mark Consuelos) way and determine which of the salon's colorful characters could be the murderer. Is it the unfaithful owner's competitive wife, Josette (Finola Hughes), or could it be Josette's loyal friend and the salon's top-stylist, Leonardo (Mario Cantone)? The only thing that knocks Lacey off her high-heel stride is her ex-boyfriend, Vic Donovan (Victor Webster), who coincidentally turns out to be the lead detective on the case. Along with the help of her friends, Lacey works to solve the mysteries, all the while scrambling to meet her Crime of Fashion column deadlines.
Killer Hair: A Crime of Fashion
Hostile Makeover
Premieres Sunday, June 28, 8:00 PM ET/PT
Lifetime Movie Network
Street-smart, fashion journalist Lacey Smithsonian continues to scoop her fellow reporters when she becomes a witness to the murder of a well-known supermodel. Soon, the world of high fashion comes undone when a killer is on the loose, and Lacey must once again use her stylish investigative skills to get the headline and solve the case. The story becomes a family affair when Lacey's mother (Mary McDonnell, Dances with Wolves) and sister (Katharine Isabelle, Supernatural) drop in and unwittingly become involved in the investigation. Will Lacey be able to keep her personal life from unraveling and save the world of haute couture from another murder?
Hostile Makeover: A Crime of Fashion Mystery
Visit Lifetime TV for more about these movies, plus great content especially for women.
Summer of Stars
Disney Channel's Summer of Stars has begun.
Fridays
Capitalizing on a current trend, Wizards of Waverly Place will air four vampire-themed episodes guest starring Bridgit Mendler ("Jonas"), Anne Ramsay ("Dexter") and JD Cullum ("Leatherheads").
Look for "Wizards on Deck with Hannah Montana" later this summer. The 90-minute TV movie incorporates the three hit tween shows.
Some Friday nights will feature a full-length movie. For example, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe will air uninterrupted June 19 beginning at 8:00 PM ET/PT. And Disney's Princess Protection Program, starring Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato, premieres Friday, June 26. In August, watch Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie.
Times are ET/PT and subject to change.
8:00 PM - The Suite Life on Deck
8:30 PM - Wizards of Waverly Place
9:00 PM - Phineas and Ferb
9:30 PM - Phineas and Ferb
Saturdays
It's a double feature every week, approximately 7:00-10:00 PM ET/PT. An Original Disney Channel Movie will air at 7:00, followed by one of Disney's theatrical films.
Sundays
Watch Sonny With A Chance, Hannah Montana, and Jonas, followed by a feature film presentation.
mes are ET/PT and subject to change.
7:00 PM - Sonny with a Chance
7:30 PM - Hannah Montana
8:00 PM - JONAS
8:30 PM - JONAS
9:00 PM - Movie
Friday, May 29, 2009
Burn Notice Online
Practice being a spy at Burn Notice's successful COVERT Ops gaming site. Fans can play arcades and mini games that test your skills at chasing motorboats, dodging trakcers, and training in the use of weapons.
Also online this year is "Burn Notice on Location," which gives fans an insider's view of filming locations. The featurettes also provide details about the production of the action series.
The site will also return its “Ask a Spy” video Q&A hosted by the show’s lead character Michael Westen and “See it Like a Spy,” which challenges fans to build spy gadgets out of everyday items.
Usanetwork.com will also feature show trivia, full-episode streams and mobile and social applications.
More:
Burn Notice Friends & Family Review
Friends Like These Trailer
Burn Notice - Season 3 Premiere Review
Friends & Family - Season 3 Premiere Episode Review
Michael Westen's mystery deepens. After washing up on shore, seluthing in a hotel, then being arrested, he's mysteriously released. As it turns out, it's his "old friend" Harlan. He's been searching for Michael, who suddenly has appeared on databases. But, Michael's a spy and he suspects Harlan and just about everyone else his "old friend" introduces him to. And his arrest, lack of ID, bank accounts, and other signs of life sets Det. Paxson on a hunt to discover the truth about Mike.
"Friends and Family" is adventurous, light-hearted, and fun - perfect for lazy summer nights. There is, of course, enough jumping out of second story windows into dark waters, battling flames, and double-crosses to keep us wondering just how the episode is going to turn out. And, Michael Westen has that wondrous "McGuyver" touch that helps him create spy gadgets and other devices from practically nothing!
Burn Notice continues to have that same tongue-in-cheek element that made Monk hugely successful, and has helped Burn Notice become a cable ratings hit in its own right.
Tune-in to the season premiere, Thursday, June 4, 9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT on USA Network, after USA's broadcast of Casino Royale at 7:00 PM. Immediately following is the series premiere of Royal Pains, 10:00-11:30 PM ET/PT.
Burn Notice stars Jeffrey Donovon as Michael Westen; Gabrielle Anwar as Fiona; Bruce Campbell as Sam Axe; and Sharon Gless as Madeline.
The series is created, written and executive produced by Matt Nix (“Chasing Vermeer”). Mikkel Bondesen (“Catch That Kid”) also serves as executive producer. The series comes from Fox Television Studios and Fuse Entertainment.
More:
Burn Notice Online
Friends Like These Trailer
Burn Notice - Friends Like These Trailer
Friends and Family - Ep. 301 - June 4, 2009, 9:00 PM ET/PT
Season Three begins with Michael emerging from the water, completely free from interference by the organization that burned him, but now under investigation by the police. Michael faces a new foe in Miami Police Detective Michelle Paxson (recurring guest star Moon Bloodgood - “Terminator: Salvation”), who becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth about Michael.
More:
Burn Notice Season Three Premiere Review
Burn Notice Online
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
2 Million + Gamers Can't be Wrong - Free Realms is a Hit
Less than a month after launching, Sony Online Entertainment's free and family-friendly online video game, Free Realms, has surpassed 2,000,000 registered users. And it's a hit exactly where the media giant wants - with 75% of registrants under the age of 17 and 46% under age 13. Approximately one-third of players are female. Free Realms is rated E10+ for Crude Humor and Fantasy Violence, meaning the content and game are suitable for players 10 years old and older. In honor of the milestone, all registrants as of May 27 received a "party pack" bundle of in-game items.
“In less than a month, Free Realms has captivated a core player base of tween and teen gamers, while also strongly resonating with MMO gamers,” said John Smedley, president of Sony Online Entertainment. “We wanted to create a game to play with our families and are excited to have hit the mark with our intended audience.”
The Online World of Free Realms
In Free Realms, players are free to do or be anything: Fight like a ninja, cook a tasty meal, raise a pet, battle goblins, set out on epic quests or connect with friends through a safe, social networking site. Also available is the Free Realms Trading Card Game: a full-featured trading card game, playable both digitally within the Free Realms online game and offline via physical card decks sold wherever you buy trading cards. In the virtual marketplace, the Trading Card Game (TCG) packs are a sales leader, as are pets, weapons, health potions and crazy clothes like a funky Hawaiian shirt!
To join in the fun, visit www.FreeRealms.com!
To support the initial release and launch of Free Realms, nearly one million Station Cash™ game cards were made available across five major retail chains. Free Realms players can pop into their local Best Buy, Blockbuster, Rite Aid, 7-Eleven or Target to purchase Station Cash™ cards, which are used to redeem Station Cash and buy virtual goodies or upgrade to a Membership status in the game.
Free Realms is rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and up with content descriptors of Crude Humor and Fantasy Violence. To play Free Realms, visit: .
Return of Gwen Munch
If you've followed the various crime dramas over the years, you may remember that Detective John Munch (Richard Belzer), also was a character on Homicide: Life on the Streets. I have to admit I did not. Regardless, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit executive producer Neal Baer has announced that Munch and his ex-wife, Gwen, will appear together for the first time in a dozen years. Carol Kane originally played Gwen and will guest star. The reunion is part of SVU's season finale, "Zebra," airing June 2 at 10:00 PM ET/PT on NBC and CTV.
In "Zebras," a young woman is killed in Central Park, and when a clerical error ruins the case, the police rush to find more evidence before the killer takes revenge on the squad.
"We're thrilled to have Gwen Munch return to her true love, Detective John Munch, to help lead him to a deranged killer (Nick Stahl) who is after a member of the SVU family," said Baer.
Stahl will guest star as Peter Harrison, "a once promising young artist who is now lost in the paranoia of mental illness. Fearing SVU Detectives are persecuting him, he turns on them after he may have murdered an innocent young mother."
Brokaw on the Road
A couple of years ago, USA Network capitalized on the popularity of quirky Monk by instituting its "Characters Wanted" theme. It's perfect for this nation of individuals who both conform to the norms, yet seek their unique personas. USA's idea expands beginning Wednesday, May 27 at 7:00 PM ET/PT, USA Network will present character sketches as Tom Brokaw travels meandering highways to provide viewers with "Dispatches from the Road." It's part of Brokaw's work on his upcoming documentary, "Tom Brokaw Presents: American Character Along Highway 50," slated to premiere January 2010 on USA. The initial vignettes from "Dispatches" will be featured on NBC televison and online at later dates.
The first episode begins in Maryland, where Brokaw meets Amanda Bramble. She's trying to live her version of the American dream by opening a seafood restaurant in Cambridge, Maryland, a fishing town near Chesapeake Bay. "Everyone thought I was crazy, and so did I," she offers in a candid interview. Bramble shares the plight of local fisherman forced to leave the waters to support their families and recounts the difficult personal challenges created by the recession. Denied financing from the banks, Bramble's passion compelled nine investors from the community to pool their cash and sweat equity to make her culinary dream of Jimmie & Sook's a reality. "Everyone here is giving when there is nothing to give," Bramble says, commenting on the true American grit of the town. "Like crabs, we cling to each other and wait for a place to settle."
The first installment and more about the series can be found at Highway50.tv.
Cyberchase Father's Day with Guest Star Matthew Broderick
Matthew Broderick guest stars as Max, Cyber Dad of the Year, in a special "Father's Day" episode of Cyberchase, premiering June 19 on PBS KIDS GO!. Check local listings. (c) WNET 13.
For seven years, Cyberchase has helped kids integrate mathematics into their daily lives. It's a fantasy adventure with a team of super hero kids who travel cyberspace as they foil the evil plans of villainous Hacker from destroying the internet. To do so, they must use basic math to measure, estimate, and solve problems.
For Father's Day, Cyberchase will air a special episode featuring the voice of Matthew Broderick as Creech's father, Max. Hacker and Max went to high school together. Max managed to beat Hacker at everything he did, which has left the villain with a huge grudge.
Creech wrote a letter nominating her father, calling him the "quintessence of Daddiness." Max is named Cyber Dad of the Year and will star in the annual Tikiville Father's Day Parade, receiving a trophy at its conclusion. Hacker sees the perfect opportunity to get even. He'll replace the real-life Max with a robot likeness. Coded messages sent to the robot will make it do awful things...and the real Max will get the blame and humiliation. Ah, but the CyberSquad, Matt, Jackie, and Inez, with their trusting friend, Digit, know Hacker's up to no good. They must crack a mathematical code sent to the robot to control its actions. The kids must detect a numbers pattern to stop the robot and Hacker from ruining Father's Day for Creech, her Dad, and the residents of Tikiville.
"My son loves Cyberchase, so I was happy to lend my voice to the show,” said guest star Matthew Broderick. “The best part is that I haven't told him I did it; I'm waiting to surprise him when we watch the episode together. I'm sure he'll be more impressed by it than any other work I've done!"
“We're thrilled to have Matthew Broderick as a guest star in this special Cyberchase episode,” said Neal Shapiro, President and CEO of WNET.ORG. “Only on Cyberchase would Father's Day mix with math for a half hour of pure entertainment. As a dad, it's a series I'm proud to have in the WNET.ORG family of programs.”
WNET has also provided the tasty, simple Max's Banana Pancake Recipe as well as activities that incorporate math as a game.
Father's Day - Ep. 705
Math Topic: Patterns in Codes
Premieres: Friday June 19, 2009
It’s the annual Father’s Day Parade in Tikiville, and Creech’s father, Max (guest star Matthew Broderick), is this year’s Cyberdad of the Year. Max was once a schoolmate of Hacker’s – and continually bested Hacker in all of their endeavors. Hacker has decided it’s time to get even and this time he’s got a really clever plan… Using secret codes and a band of bad guys, he rolls into action, cleverly changing the code each step of the way to keep those “earthbrats” from catching on. Will Hacker succeed in spoiling Father’s Day and embarrassing Max? Or will our heroes figure out the pattern to his codes in time to stop him?
Following the June 19 on-air premiere, the full “Father’s Day” episode with Matthew Broderick will be available for streaming at Cyberchase Online at pbskidsgo.org/cyberchase and on the PBS KIDS GO! video player at pbskidsgo.org/video. For more Cyberchase fun, kids will also be able to print their very own Cyberchase Father's Day cards and experience other activities at Cyberchase Online.
Cyberchase is the only children's math show on American television. The cartoon series has won various well-deserved awards. It is produced by THIRTEEN in association with Title Entertainment Inc. and WNET.ORG. Executive producers are Sandra Sheppard, THIRTEEN’s Director of Children’s and Educational Programming, and Frances Nankin. Ellen Doherty is senior series producer. Nationally, it is seen on local PBS stations as part of the PBS KIDS GO! programming block. Check local listings for broadcast times where you live.
Banana Pancakes and Father's Day Fun from Cyberchase
Family Fun for Father’s Day
By Frances Nankin
Executive Producer and Editorial Director, Cyberchase
This Father’s Day, weave math into your family fun with these quick and easy, skill-building activities from Cyberchase, the animated hit series that airs daily on PBS KIDS GO!. And don’t miss the all-new Cyberchase special episode, Father’s Day, premiering June 19 on PBS KIDS GO! (check local listings).
Make Banana Pancakes! (Math skills: Measurement, Fractions)
In Father’s Day, Creech’s dad Max gets the Cyber Dad of the Year award, in part because of his fabulous banana pancakes. Does your Dad of the Year like pancakes? Together, you and your child can prepare Max’s recipe for that special Father’s Day breakfast. Need more pancakes? Work with your child to double, or even triple the recipe!
Max’s Banana Pancakes
(Makes 8-10 pancakes)
1 egg
1/2 C. sour cream
2/3 C. whole wheat flour
2 TBL sugar
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp Salt
1/3 C. orange juice
1 C. mashed banana
In a medium-size bowl, mix together the egg and sour cream. Set aside. Sift together the flour, sugar, soda and salt. Stir flour mix into egg mix with the orange juice until moistened. Stir in the mashed banana.
Heat griddle with 2 TBL oil until oil is hot. Ladle mix onto griddle to make pancakes. Cook on one side until bubbly, then flip to cook other side.
Serve with butter and your favorite syrup, or eat as is!
Play Frisbee Golf (Math skills: Measurement, Using Numbers)
Here’s a fun way for the whole family to play golf on Father’s Day - Frisbee Golf! Dust off your favorite Frisbee, grab some paper and pens to keep score, and work together to set a “course” of landing targets for the Frisbee (a table, a picnic blanket, a hula hoop, etc.). Invite your child to help you measure the distance between the targets so they are at least 10 feet apart. Choose spots so the targets are not all in a straight line. The object of the game is to toss the Frisbee from one end of the course to the other using the least number of tosses, hitting each target as you go.
To play, take turns tossing the Frisbee toward a target – where it lands becomes the spot from which you take your next shot until you hit your target. Keep track of your score from target to target. (If you take three throws to hit a target, your score is three.) When all players have completed the course, lowest score wins – just like in golf!
Eating Out? (Math skills: Mental Math, Estimation)
Eating out for Father’s Day? Estimation is a powerful tool in mathematics. Before calculating a sum or a product, for example, using number sense to estimate the answer can help you know if your final calculation is reasonable. Here’s one way to give your child some quick and easy practice using estimation. At the restaurant, work together to estimate the total bill. To do this, decide on a way to make the prices of the menu items easy to work with (round up to the nearest dollar, for example). Then, use mental math to estimate the total.
Fight Boredom with the Dr. Marbles Gotcha Game! (Math skills: Logic, Problem Solving)
No one likes to be kept waiting at a restaurant, especially when you’re hungry. But you can make the time pass quickly when you play this fun math game. To set up, you need 15 sugar packets, 1 of them a different color. Arrange 14 of the packets in a circle. Put the 15th different-color packet in the center. The object of the game is to force your opponent to take the packet in the center Take turns removing one, two, or three sugar packets from the circle. The winner is the player who does not get stuck with the center packet. Play the game a few times. Can you think of a winning strategy?
Hint: To make a hard problem easier, try something simpler. The solution to the simpler problem can help you think about the more difficult one. Try playing with just five packets (one of which is a different color). Is it easier to think about a winning strategy?
Cyberchase, the only math series for children on American TV, will be premiering a new “Father’s Day” episode on June 19 featuring award-winning film and stage actor Matthew Broderick as the voice of Max. In this exciting episode, Hacker sets out to ruin Father’s Day while Max and the CyberSquad try to stop him. Cyberchase airs daily on PBS KIDS GO! across the country. Check local listings or visit pbskidsgo.org/cyberchase.
Cyberchase is produced by THIRTEEN in association with Title Entertainment Inc. and WNET.ORG. Major funding for Cyberchase is provided by the National Science Foundation, Ernst & Young LLP, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman, PBS and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Additional funding is provided by The Volckhausen Family.
Source: PBS KIDS GO! Press.
Summer TV Show Premiere Dates
All times are ET/PT, unless otherwise stated.
Monday, May 18
9:00-11:00 PM - The Bachelorette (Special Time) - ABC
Thursday, May 21
8:00-10:00 PM - So You Think You Can Dance - FOX
Friday, May 22
8:00-9:00 PM - Don't Forget the Lyrics - FOX
Sunday, May 24
8:00-9:00 PM - Million Dollar Password - CBS
Monday, May 25
8:00-10:00 PM - The Bachelorette (Time Period Premiere) - ABC
9:00 PM - Intervention - A & E
9:00 PM - Jon & Kate Plus Eight - TLC
10:00-11:00 PM - Here Come the Newlyweds - ABC
10:00 PM - Obsessed - A & E
Tuesday, May 26
9:00-10:00 PM - Hitched or Ditched - CW
9:00 PM - Man Caves - DIY
9:00 PM - Mental - FOX
9:00 PM - Science of the MOvies - Science Channel
10:00 PM - The Little Couple - TLC
10:00-11:00 PM - Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood - Oxygen
Wednesday, May 27
8:00-10:00 PM - So You Think You Can Dance - FOX
8:00-9:00 PM - Wipeout - ABC
9:00 PM - Dog the Bounty Hunter - A & E
9:00-9:30 PM - The Goode Family - ABC
10:00 PM - Tattoo Highway - A & E
10:00 PM - Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns
Friday, May 29
9:00-10:00 PM - Mental - FOX
Sunday, May 31
10:00 PM - HGTV's $250,000 Challenge - HGTV
Monday, June 1
8:00-9:00 PM - I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! - NBC
Thursday, June 4
9:00-10:00 PM - Burn Notice - USA Network
10:00-11:00 PM - The Listener - NBC
10:00-11:30 PM - The Royal Pains - USA Network
Friday, June 5
9:00 PM - Whale Wars - Animal Planet
Sunday, June 7 and June 14
9:00-11:00 PM - Meteor two-part miniseries - NBC
Monday, June 8
9:00-10:00 PM - Law & Order: Criminal Intent (NBC premiere) - NBC
10:00-11:00 PM - Dateline NBC - NBC
Thursday, June 11
9:00 PM - She's Got The Look - TV Land
9:00 PM - Total Drama Action - Cartoon Network
Tuesday, June 16
8:00-9:00 PM - Wedding Day - TNT
9:00-10:00 PM - Hawthorne - TNT
Wednesday, June 17
8:00-8:30 PM - The Othersiders - Cartoon Network
8:30-9:00 PM - Survive This - Cartoon Network
Saturday, June 20
8:00-8:30 PM - BrainRush - Cartoon Network
8:30-9:00 PM - Destroy Build Destroy - Cartoon Network
Tuesday, June 23
8:00-9:00 PM - The Superstars - ABC
Sunday June 21 & June 28
8:00-10:00 PM - Merlin - NBC
Tuesday, June 23
9:00-10:00 PM - America's got Talent - NBC
10:00-11:00 PM - The Cleaner - A & E
Wednesday June 24
9:00-10:00 PM - America's got Talent - NBC
10:00-11:00 PM - The Philanthropist - NBC
Wednesday, July 1
8:00-9:00 PM - Great American Road Trip - NBC
9:00 PM - Monsters Inside Me - Animal Planet
Friday, July 3
8:00-9:00 PM - Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader Summer Session - FOX
Sunday, July 5
8:00-9:00 PM - Merlin (time period premiere) - NBC
Tuesday, July 7
8:00-9:00 PM - 10 Things I Hate About You - ABC Family
9:00-9:30 & 9:30-10:00 PM - Blonde Charity Mafia - CW
9:00-11:00 PM - Warehouse 13 - SciFi
Wednesday, July 8
9:00-10:00 PM - Ghost Hunters International - SciFi
9:00-10:00 PM - I Survived a Japanese Game Show - ABC
Friday, July 10
9:00-10:00 PM - Eureka - SciFi
Sunday, July 19 & July 26
9:00-11:00 PM - The Storm two-part miniseries - NBC
Monday, July 20
10:00-11:00 PM - Dating in the Dark - ABC
Tuesday, July 21
8:00-10:00 PM - Hell's Kitchen - FOX
Tuesday, July 28
8:00-9:00 PM - Hell's Kitchen - FOX (Time Period Premiere)
9:00-10:00 PM - More to Love - FOX
Wednesday, Aug. 12
10:00-10:30 PM - How'd You Get So Rich? - TV Land
10:30-11:00 PM - Make My Day - TV Land
Wednesday, Aug. 19
9:00-10:00 PM - Ghost Hunters - SciFi
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Memorial Day Concert
Sunday, May 24, 2009, 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm ET
The nation's premier memorial event is broadcast live on the eve of Memorial Day from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC. The television event will feature a mix of dramatic readings, documentary footage and live musical performances, along with an all-star line-up of dignitaries, actors and musical artists.
Credit: ©Capital Concerts
Producer: Capital Concerts and WETA Washington, DC
National Memorial Day Concert 20th Anniversary
PBS stations across the country will again broadcast the National Memorial Day Concert, live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Gary Sinise (CSI: NY) and Joe Mantegna (Criminal Minds) return to co-host the event for the third consecutive year. The concert airs Sunday, May 24 from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM ET, with a taped encore presentation in many cities from 9:30-11:00 PM ET. Check local listings for broadcast times on your PBS station.
"This year’s event will look back and reflect on some of the most powerful moments from the past two decades, in which these performers contributed their immense talents to help viewers remember and pay tribute to all those who served in America’s wars."
It may be the concert's 20th anniversary, but 2009 marks a more significant one: the 200th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln. During his presidency, Lincoln considered it a duty to "...to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan..." It was during the Civil War that the loved ones of the fallen soldiers and sailors of both sides began planting flowers as tributes to their lives and military service. So, it is fitting that excerpts from letters written by President Lincoln will be read during the concert. To this day, more American lives were lost during the Civil War than any other conflict since. More than 620,000 soldiers and sailors died defending their beliefs.
PBS also states that, "The concert will honor the sacrifices, suffering and love of the thousands of family members caring for our severely wounded veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan. These disabled warriors have become our living memorials, a visible reminder of those who sacrificed so much for the principles we stand for whose families take care of them and will continue to sacrifice for them for the rest of their lives."
"Joining co-hosts Sinise and Mantegna is an all-star line-up of dignitaries, actors and musical artists including distinguished American leader Colin L. Powell; renowned film, television and stage actress Katie Holmes; Emmy Award-winning actor Laurence Fishburne; double Academy Award-winning actress Dianne Wiest; recording artist and actress Katharine McPhee; country music superstar Trace Adkins; Tony Award-winning Broadway star Brian Stokes Mitchell; celebrated Broadway star Colm Wilkinson (Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera); acclaimed opera star Denyce Graves; classical music superstar Lang Lang, named one of the 2009 TIME 100 (Time magazine); and Grammy-nominated violin virtuoso Robert McDuffie in performance with the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of maestro Erich Kunzel, recipient of the National Medal of Arts. The U.S Joint Chiefs of Staff also will participate in the event, along with the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, U.S. Army Chorus, U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, Soldiers Chorus of the U.S. Army Field Band, U.S. Navy Sea Chanters, and the Armed Forces Color Guard and Service Color Teams provided by the Military District of Washington, DC."
PBS's has again launched the concert's companion website at www.pbs.org/memorialdayconcert. You can explore the viewer's guide and a special page where veterans and family members can pay tribute to their friends and loved ones. These eulogies will be delivered to the appropriate national memorial in the nation's capitol.
Source: PBS Press materials.
Team Up with Thomas DVD Review
This May 19th release of the beloved trains of Sodor Island features a new character, Mr. Arkwright, a new engine driver. His appearances are made during live action segments. He shows children the employee breakroom. During Team Up with Thomas, Mr. Arkwright has an important task to complete: Make a cardboard engine for Sir Topham Hatt's grandchildren! Mr. Arkwright's welcome addition will not appear on television broadcasts of Thomas and Friends, but only on DVD releases.
The animated adventures continue to uphold Rev. Awdry's original stories' valuable lessons in cooperation, respect for oneself and each other, completing tasks, and following directions. The Team Up with Thomas DVD's emphasis is, of course, team work and cooperation in work and play. Children will recognize themselves and their peers as they watch the trains work, play, make mistakes, but ultimately do a job well done.
The DVD includes a Roary the Racing Car bonus episode, "Roary Takes Off." When Roary is accidentally filled with helium instead of an engine cleaner, he gets a new view of the world. The addition of a Roary episode complements the Thomas and Friends stories. Roary's eagerness to become the best race car leads to an ocassional mishap, but always ends happily with new life lessons learned while having fun.
Hit Entertainment and Lionsgate have released a limited Edition set that includes a well made wooden Thomas the Tank Engine toy. The cost is just a couple of dollars more, but the toy would cost several dollars more at most retailers. Thomas & Friends: Team Up with Thomas with Thomas Toy
Thomas & Friends: Team Up With Thomas DVD
Team Up with Thomas DVD Synopsis
Everyone's favorite true blue engine, Thomas, is back with friends old and new in four fun adventures on the Island of Sodor in Thomas & Friends: Team Up With Thomas. This DVD is enhanced with state-of-the-art CG animation and a new live-action host, Mr. Arkwright, who welcomes viewers with a smile and a fun project for Lady Hatt's grandchildren. Thomas, Edward, Toby, James and the rest of the engines introduce young engineers to Hank, a big, strong, new engine, and Flora, a lovely new lady steam engine. Together, they take us along on their tasks around the island. Be careful: trouble may lie around the next bend. But one thing's for certain - you'll always come home with a brand new friend!
Episodes include:
"Heave Ho Thomas" - Sir Topham Hatt asks Thomas to show Hank, the new engine, around the island. Thomas quickly rails against Hank's brash personality and refuses to let Hank help him with his important jobs. When overloaded, Thomas cracks a cylinder and needs Hank's help. The two soon become good friends.
"James Works It Out" - It's winter on the island and James is telling everyone he always knows best and never needs advice from anyone! When Hector tries to warn him about the bad weather, he decides to ignore him. He soon changes his mind when they get stuck in the snow. Luckily, Hector is happy to help his friend James.
"Tram Trouble" - Toby is very excited about leading the parade at the first Great Waterton festival, so when Thomas discovers that Flora, the new steam tram, is also leading the parade, Thomas is worried his friend will be upset. Thomas tries to impede the forthcoming events…little does he know that Toby is scared of leading the parade on his own!
"Push Me Pull You" - The Puppet Show has arrived on the Island of Sodor and Skarloey excitedly asks Sir Topham Hatt if he can pull the puppet show special. The trucks are very heavy, and instead of accepting Rheneas' offer of help, Skarloey challenges him to a tug of war with the trucks. Disaster quickly ensues, and Skarloey learns that friendship is the strongest thing of all.
DVD Special Features
Spot the Difference Game
Sir Topham Hatt's Helping Hands
Bonus Episode: Roary™ the Racing Car - "Roary Takes Off" The all-new TV series from the creators of Bob the Builder™
DVD Technical Features
Rating: NR
Genre: Children/Family/Ages 2-5
Closed Captioned: English Closed Captioned
Format: Full Screen
Feature Running Time: 46 minutes
DVD Audio Status: English, Spanish and French 2.0 Dolby Digital
Children can have fun at the Thomas and Friends official website
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Barney: Let's go on Vacation DVD Review
I'll admit it. I like Barney. Had the character been around when I was 3, I would have been just as mesmerized by the songs, dancing, and good behavior. But the latest DVD release is not that good. It's not that the story, which is a compilation of new and old segments made into one episode, is bad. The adventure and lessons learned are great for little ones. It's just choppily done and seems hasitly produced.
First, the season featured on the DVD is not Summer, but Fall, complete with dying leaves on the ground and talk about cold weather. If HIT wanted a Cinco de Mayo or summer vacation theme for this mid-May release, perhaps it should have chosen a spring/summer theme. It feels out of place (of course, that'll change in four months).
The main story sends Barney and his playground friends off to Mexico for a summer vacation. They make new friends, and learn about the culture of the nation, complete with dance, music, treats and celebrations. There is some Spanish language spoken, but not in a way that would teach it. More like to familiarize young ears with the sound of the language, which is not a criticism. One needs to become familiar with the cadence to learn a language.
The episode ends, black screen shows, untitled bonus feature, which ends, and goes into another black screen followed by another untitled bonus feature. These are featured on the Main Menu to select individually.
Pack a Suitcase with Barney is humorous, but is not a lesson in smart packing for parents and kids. Barney can fit anything he wants into his suitcase!
One of the most useful features is Barney's Travel Checklist. The purple dinosaur reads a list of must takes that is also shown on the screen. Very handy for kids who would like to take some responsibility for preparing for vacation.
There are three Spanish Sing-Along Songs, which are pleasant.
To us, the highlight of the DVD was the Bonus Episode of Roary the Racing Car: Roary's Day at the Seaside. They are just a fun, noisy group, learning how to race and play fairly.
Barney : Let's Go on Vacation DVD
Barney: Let's go on Vacation Synopsis
Pack your bags and embark on a dino-mite musical vacation discovering a whole new world of fun when Barney: Let’s Go On Vacation travels exclusively to DVD on May 19, 2009 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. Featuring fun stories never-before-seen on TV, Barney and his friends explore exotic new foods and meet exciting new people. The trip ultimately turns into a singing and dancing celebration of the differences and similarities between cultures. The group quickly learns that the things that matter most – family and friends –¬ are the same the world over. \
Source: Lionsgate Publicity.
CW Network 2009-2010 Primetime Schedule
It was a year of highs and lows for The CW. Let's face it, Sundays were a disaster. Their agreement to lease Sunday primetime to an indpendent company ended quickly and the network chose to air movies and reruns. But, 90210 was a bona fide hit, America's Next Top Model continued to titilate and inspire, Gossip Girls gained ground and, surprisingly, One Tree Hill is hangin' in there.
It was not a good year for CW's comedies. The acclaimed Everybody Hates Chris and The Game went from low ratings on Mondays to dismal on Friday nights. They have both been canceled. So has the Reaper.
But, the schedule seems more focused than before, clearly targeting teen girls and young women. Themed nights exist, but they're basically for that targeted demo, rather than a night for guys, nights for teens, nights for families...you get the picture. The oddman out is Smallville, which moves to Friday nights as it enters its ninth season (wow!)
The CW added a new Ashton Kutcher drama series, The Beautiful Life, teaming it with Next Top Model. Raina Collins (Sara Paxton, Darcy's Wild Life, Last House on the Left), "...a stunning beauty with a secret past," and Chris Andrews (Benjamin Hollingsworth, "The Line"), an Iowa farm boy (hmmm...sounds a tad like Kutcher, star as a young models who quickly learn that the fashion world is cutthroat and insecure. Mischa Barton (The O.C.) returns to television as Raina's friend, Sonja, who has made a mysterious journey to Europe...
Captializing on the current fascination with all things vampires and vampire love, The CW will pair The Vampire Diaries with Supernatural. A teen is drawn to a handsome guy, who just happens to be an ancient vampire trying to live quietly and uneventfully amongst humans.
And, the success of the updated 90210 (that even one of my sisters-in-law watches along with her teen daughter) has inspired CW to bring back Melrose Place. A group of 20-somethings live together as a family in the trendy Melrose neighborhood of Los Angeles. Sydney Andrews, who portrayed Laura Leighton in the original series, returns as the gang's 40ish landlady.
Midseason features Parental Discretion. An adopted teen finds her biological parents, which changes all their lives.
CW will add an hour of The Tyra Banks Show to its afternoon schedule. An encore episode will air weekdays at 3:00 PM ET, with an original one at 4:00 PM ET.
All times are ET/PT and subject to change. Premiere dates will be announced this summer.
Monday
8:00 PM - Gossip Girl
9:00 PM - One Tree Hill
Tuesday
8:00 PM - 90210
9:00 PM - Melrose Place (new)
Wednesday
8:00 PM - America's Next Top Model
9:00 PM - The Beautiful Life
Thursday
8:00 PM - The Vampire Diaries
9:00 PM - Supernatural
Friday
8:00 PM - Smallville (new day)
9:00 PM - America's Next Top Model (Encores)
So You Think You Can Dance Canada
Since audtions are still going on for the Canadian edition of SYTYCD, I thought I'd add that for our CA visitors.
Tuesday, May 26
Montréal, QC
Théâtre St-Denis,
1594 St-Denis Street
Among the rules and regulations that should be noted for the auditions:
Competitors must be either a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada.
All competitors must be legally eligible to work in Canada.
Competitors must be of the age of majority in the province/territory in which they reside and no older than 30 years of age as of April 1, 2009. The age of majority is as follows: 18 years of age in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec and Saskatchewan; and 19 years of age in British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut and Yukon.
All competitors must provide two pieces of identification, including a government-issued photo ID (e.g. driver’s license or passport), at the audition.
Competitors may bring a non-competing dance partner for purposes of the audition.
All competitors must bring with them, along with the proper ID, the signed personal release, the completed preliminary questionnaire, and the music sheet. All will be available at the audition site and for download soon at dance.ctv.ca.
All competitors are asked to bring with them the completed music sheet indicating the music they will use in their audition, along with the CD containing the indicated music.
All songs must be “original” songs that are commercially available. A song must not be a re-mix of a song, a song downloaded from the Internet, or a competitor-created mix.
Competitors will not be permitted to audition in any article of clothing with a visible designer, sports or other logo; artwork; name; photo; or other mark which may be subject to protection by copyright or trademark laws.
So You Think You Can Dance Audtion Photo
Fox's Dance Season Premiere & Audition Dates
So You Think You Can Dance's fifth season premieres May 21, 8:00-10:00 PM ET on FOX and, in Canada, CTV. After the premiere, SYTYCD will air Wednesdays and Thursdays. But, auditions for season six begin next week, as the network prepares for a Fall run of the fabulously popular talent search.
Check out the audition episodes for ideas on how (and how not) to impress the judges. These air May 21 and May 27, 8:00-10:00 PM ET.
As always, these venues and dates are subject to change. They will be announced locally and you can always check fox.com for updates.
Thursday, May 28
Boston, MA
Hyatt Regency Boston
One Avenue de Lafayette
Boston, MA 02111
Monday, June 1
Atlanta, Georgia
Woodruff Arts Center
1280 Peachtree Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
Friday, June 12
Los Angeles, CA
Orpheum Theatre
842 S. Broadway
Los Angeles, CA 90014
Friday, July 24
Salt Lake City, UT
TBA
Registration will begin at 8:00 AM at each venue. Auditioners traveling to cities for the open calls should make arrangements to stay for at least two days following their initial audition in the event of a callback.
Contestants must be no younger than 18 years of age or older than 30 years of age on the first day they register for auditions. Any contestant who is a minor in their state of residence must also have a parent or legal guardian sign all required documents. Check fox.com/dance for full eligibility rules.
Facts about Ida, Subject of History Channel's The Link
The recent discovery of a primate fossil that could be the earliest transitional species in human evolution may be a revolutionary find. Named "Ida," the specimen is 47 million years old, which is 20 times older than most other remains found so far. HistoryR explains that Ida displays, "....characteristics from the very primitive non-human evolutionary line (prosimians, such as lemurs), but she is more related to the human evolutionary line (anthropoids, such as monkeys, apes and humans). This places Ida at the very root of anthropoid evolution — when primates were first developing the features that would evolve into our own." The findings were published by PLoS One, the source journal of the Public Library of Science.
The History ChannelR will air "The Link" on Monday, May 25, 9:00-11:00 PM ET/PT. Thanks to Ally Bank, the television special will air with limited commercial interruptions. The documentary is produced by Atlantic Productions.
The fossil is nearly 95% complete. Scientists have been conducting secret forensic analyses for almost two years. "This specimen is like finding the lost ark for archaeologists," said Dr. Jørn Hurum of the University of Oslo Natural History Museum. "This fossil will probably be the one that will be pictured in all textbooks for the next 100 years."
Ida is a European fossil, which immediately sets it apart from other primate fossils, such as Lucy, found in Africa's Cradle of Mankind. The recent find was discovered in Germany's Messel Pit, a mile-wide crater featuring oil-rich shale that has become "...a significant site for fossils of the Eocene period."
The fossil's opposable bit toes with nails in place of claws confirmed that Ida was a primate. She is about three-feet long with a soft body. Her age at death is estimated to be nine months. The fossil is so complete that her last meal is preserved - fruits, seeds, and leaves. X-rays show both baby and adult teeth, but a lack of a toothcomb or toilet claw, which are found in lemurs. What links Ida to humans is ankle! Although smaller in size, the talus bone is the same shape as ours.
While attending a fossil fair in Hamburg, Germany, Dr. Hurum heard about a unique fossil. He arranged a private meeting with the fossil dealer. After viewing the fossil and confirming its authenticity, Hurum was able to raise the funds to purchase it for the University of Oslo Natural History Museum. He then carefully selected a "dream team" of experts to "...decode the fossil." Among the scientists working on the project are:
"1. Dr. Holly Smith, top U.S. dental anthropologist, University of Michigan: 'In terms of a complete skeleton, it's hard to think of anything else in primate evolution that's as complete as this fossil. It's certainly the most beautiful fossil primate I've ever seen.'
"2. Dr. Jens Franzen, German fossil and Messel Pit expert, Senckenberg Research Institute: 'This is by far the most complete fossil primate ever found in the world. When the results of our investigations are published this will be just like an asteroid hitting the earth.'
"3. Prof. Philip Gingerich, leading U.S. primate specialist, University of Michigan: 'It's really a kind of Rosetta Stone because it ties together parts we haven’t been able to associate before.'
"4. Dr Jörg Habersetzer, German fossil expert and radiologist, Senckenberg Research Institute: 'This fossil rewrites our understanding of the evolution of primates.'"
If you would like to see Ida in person, a cast of the fossil is on display in the Extreme Mammals exhibition at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.
Closeup of Ida
News Conference For The Global Unveiling Of "Ida"
NEW YORK - MAY 19: (L-R) Dr. Holly Smith, Dr. Jorn Hurum and Dr. Jens Franzen speak at the news conference for the global unveiling of "Ida," hosted by HISTORY, the University of Oslo and the Senckenberg Research Institute at the American Museum of Natural History on May 19, 2009 in New York City. "Ida" is a landmark 47 million-year-old primate fossil and subject of the History Channel special, The Link. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/image.net)
Images of the Primate Fossil Ida
News Conference For The Global Unveiling Of "Ida"
NEW YORK - MAY 19: New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg attends the global unveiling of "Ida," hosted by HISTORY, the University of Oslo and the Senckenberg Research Institute at the American Museum of Natural History on May 19, 2009 in New York City. "Ida" is a landmark 47 million-year-old primate fossil and subject of the History Channel special, The Link. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/image.net)
Disney's Up
Disney's A Christmas Carol
"Jim Carrey stars as the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge in Disney's A Christmas Carol, a multi-sensory film re-invisioned by Academy AwardR-winning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis. Capturing the fantastical essence of the classic Dickens tale in a groundbreaking 3D motion picture event, Disney's A Christmas Carol opens in theaters around the world in November 2009. Early footage from the film was screened at the Cannes Film Festival on May 18, 2009." (c)Walt Disney Films.
The film is scheduled for a Nov. 6th release in the U.S.
Disney's Princess and the Frog
Toy Story 3 D Image
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
The Missing Link?
May 20, 2010
HISTORY SPECIAL DOCUMENTING DISCOVERY TO AIR MAY 25 AT 9PM ET/PT
HISTORY CHANNEL™, THE UNIVERSITY OF OSLO AND THE SENCKENBERG RESEARCH INSTITUTE REVEAL LANDMARK SCIENTIFIC FIND
47 Million Year Old Primate Fossil Set to Revolutionize Understanding of Human Evolution
HISTORY, together with the University of Oslo and the Senckenberg Research Institute, today reveal a landmark scientific find: the 47 million year old fossilized remains of a primate. The most complete fossil primate ever found, the young female specimen — known as "Ida" — is set to revolutionize our understanding of human evolution. Twenty times older than most fossils that explain human evolution, "Ida" is a transitional species showing characteristics from the very primitive non-human evolutionary line (prosimians, such as lemurs), but she is more related to the human evolutionary line (anthropoids, such as monkeys, apes and humans). This places Ida at the very root of anthropoid evolution — when primates were first developing the features that would evolve into our own. The scientists' findings are published today by PLoS One, the open source journal of the Public Library of Science.
The find is lauded as the most important scientific discovery of recent times. HISTORY will premiere the major television special —"THE LINK"— chronicling the discovery and study of the fossil. The two-hour program, produced by London-based Atlantic Productions, will air on HISTORY on Monday, May 25 at 9pm ET/PT. "THE LINK" is presented with limited commercials made possible by Ally Bank.
Source: Image Net.
NBC Network 2009-2010 Primetime Schedule
NBC announced its 2009-2010 programming schedule on May 19. The network had already reupped several shows and announced new series. Why they dragged it out for two weeks is beyond me, although it may be they wanted to "personalize" the presentations for the midwest and west coasts, which some in the entertainment say are different than the east coast.
Returning to the network are The Office, 30 Rock, The Biggest Loser, The Celebrity Apprentice, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Friday Night Lights, Law & Order, Southland, Dateline NBC, Heroes, and Chuck. NBC also renewed Last Call with Carson Daly. During the Fall and early Winter, Football Night in America and NBC Sunday Night Football fill NBC's Sunday evenings. SNL Weekend Update Thursday will return for a six episode, limited run early in the season.
The Jay Leno Show will fill the weeknight 10:00-11:00 PM ET time slot. With its addition to the primetime lineup, Thursday nights really will be NBC's highly touted "Night of Comedy." Other new series are second attempt to bring a television adaptation of the film Parenthood; Trauma, a medical emergency drama; Mercy, a hospital drama focusing on the nurses' perception of their jobs; the post-apocolyptic thriller, Day One; Community, a comedy set at a Community College; and 100 Questions, a romantic comedy that answers questions about love.
The 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics will be used to introduce viewers to midseason replacements, including Sunday nights of documentary and reality programming (i.e., Dateline, Marriage Ref, Celebrity Apprentice) and Monday nights of sci-fi thrills (i.e., Chuck, Day One).
Additionally, NBC still plans to broadcast the new documentary series Who Do You Think You Are?, based on a mega-hit BBC genealogy series that Canada's CBC also adapted for their nation. (I'm really looking forward to it and wish NBC would get it on already!)
During the summer, NBC will broadcast original episodes of Breakthrough with Tony Robbins; The Jay Leno Show; Friday Night Lights; and America's got Talent.
All times are ET/PT and subject to change.
Monday
8:00 PM - Heroes (new time)
9:00 PM - Trauma (new)
10:00 PM - The Jay Leno Show (new)
Tuesday
8:00 PM - The Biggest Loser (2-hours)
10:00 PM - The Jay Leno Show (new)
Wednesday
8:00 PM - Parenthood (new)
9:00 PM - Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (new day & time)
10:00 PM - The Jay Leno Show (new)
Thursday
8:00 PM - SNL Weekend Update Thursday (multi-episode run)
8:30 PM – Parks and Recreation
9:00 PM – The Office
9:30 PM – Community (new)
10:00 PM - The Jay Leno Show (new)
Friday
8:00 PM - Law & Order (new day & time)
9:00 PM - Southland (new day & time)
10:00 PM - The Jay Leno Show (new)
Saturday
8:00 PM – Dateline NBC
9:00 PM - Trauma (encore broadcast)
10:00 PM – Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (encore broadcast)
Sunday
7:00 PM - Football Night in America
8:20 PM - NBC Sunday Night Football
NBC's primetime will be pre-empted February 12-28, for coverage of the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, British Columbia. The Marriage Ref, a comedy from Jerry Seinfeld and Ellen Rakieten, and the third edition of The Celebrity Apprentice will air on Sundays after the Olympic events have concluded. Chuck and the new comedy 100 Questions will also premiere after the Olympics.
All times are ET/PT and subject to change.
Monday
8:00 PM - Chuck
9:00 PM - Day One (new)
10:00 PM - The Jay Leno Show (new)
Tuesday
8:00 PM - The Biggest Loser (90-minutes)
9:30 PM - 100 Questions
10:00 PM - The Jay Leno Show (new)
Wednesday
8:00 PM - Mercy (new)
9:00 PM - Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (new day & time)
10:00 PM - The Jay Leno Show (new)
Thursday
8:00 PM - Community (new)
8:30 PM – Parks and Recreation
9:00 PM – The Office
9:30 PM – 30 Rock
10:00 PM - The Jay Leno Show (new)
Friday
8:00 PM - Law & Order (new day & time)
9:00 PM - Southland (new day & time)
10:00 PM - The Jay Leno Show (new)
Saturday
8:00 PM – Dateline NBC
9:00 PM - Southland (encore broadcast)
10:00 PM – Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (encore broadcast)
Sunday
7:00 PM - Dateline NBC
8:00 PM - The Marriage Ref
9:00 PM - The Celebrity Apprentice
CBS Network 2009-2010 Primetime Schedule
May 20, CBS announced its 2009-2010 primetime schedule. The network that claims four number one series in their respective categories, has reupped eighteen of its series and will add eight new series for Fall or midseason. Medium also joins the lineup, moving from NBC to CBS to be paired on Friday nights with Ghost Whisperer.
New series for Fall include the NCIS spin-off, NCIS: Los Angeles; The Good Wife, a courtroom drama about a wife whose politician husband is incarcerated; Three Rivers, which follows the personal and professional lives a transplant surgical team; and Accidentally on Purpose, starring Jenna Elfman as a woman who finds herself pregnant by a much younger man.
CBS has also picked up four new shows for midseason, including a Jerry Bruckheimer medical drama, Miami Trauma. The police drama, The Bridge, and alternative series, Undercover Boss, and Arranged Marriage, are also slated to premiere in early 2010.
Returning series are the #1 drama, CSI; #1 comedy, Two and a Half Men; #1 new series, The Mentalist; #1 news magazine, 60 Minutes; Survivor; The Amazing Race; The Big Bang Theory; How I Met Your Mother; CSI: Miami; NCIS; The New Adventures of Old Christine; Gary Unmarried; Criminal Minds; CSI: NY; Ghost Whisperer; Numb3rs; 48 Hours Mystery; and Cold Case.
All times are ET/PT and subject to change.
Monday
8:00 PM - How I Met Your Mother (new time)
8:30 PM - Accidentally on Purpose (new)
9:00 PM - Two and a Half Men
9:30 PM - The Big Bang Theory (new time)
10:00 PM - CSI: Miami
Tuesday
8:00- PM NCIS
9:00 PM - NCIS: Los Angeles (new)
10:00 PM - The Good Wife (new)
Wednesday
8:00 PM - The New Adventures of Old Christine
8:30 PM - Gary Unmarried
9:00 PM - Criminal Minds
10:00 PM - CSI: NY
Thursday
8:00 PM - Survivor
9:00 PM - CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
10:00 PM - The Mentalist (new time)
Friday
8:00 PM - Ghost Whisperer
9:00 PM - Medium (new day, time and network)
10:00 PM - Numb3rs
Saturday
8:00 PM - Crimetime Saturday
9:00 PM - Crimetime Saturday
10:00 PM - 48 Hours Mystery
Sunday
7:00 PM - 60 Minutes
8:00 PM - The Amazing Race
9:00 PM - Three Rivers (new)
10:00 PM - Cold Case (new time)
The midseason schedule and premiere dates will be announced later this year.