OMPA Sign Up Information

OMPA stands with the Black community against racial discrimination, violence and social injustice. The murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and many other unarmed Black people are not isolated events; these murders are part of the entrenched racism that permeates our society.

We realize that making this statement is not enough. We have a collective responsibility to take action. The truth is that this organization and the industry it represents-while able to adapt to changing technologies, pivot quickly to meet project deadlines, and adjust to demanding safety protocols-has been painfully slow to create racial equity. 

We acknowledge the systemic racism within our industry and are committed to taking a leadership role in correcting the racial inequity that exists. This starts with looking internally at our organization and doing the work of examining our values and processes to do better. 

Doing better also means listening and amplifying the Black voices and creatives in our community. It means asking every person of privilege and power to do the work to become educated, letting go of ego and fragility. It means consistently providing pathways and access to opportunities. It means having challenging conversations within the organization and the community at large.

This industry is nimble and creative and capable of so many seemingly impossible things. Let us work together towards substantial change with sustained effort. 

In solidarity with the public outcry to denounce systemic racism, we feel it''s only right to pause our weekly emails. Today, we encourage you to take these actions:

• DONATE to Black Lives Matter, Oregon NAACP, Don''t Shoot PDX, Breonna Taylor fundraiser (whose 27th birthday would have been today)
• WATCH Just Mercy courtesy of the Northwest Film Center and I''m Not Your Negro and Whose Streets? via Hollywood Theater
• SUPPORT local Black-owned businesses: Mercatus Directory, Portland BIPOC-owned businesses
• COMMIT to the industry''s Diversity Pledge
• ATTEND Creatives of Color Collaborative (BIPOC-only) events listed here. 
• PROTEST Join the Couch Film Collective virtual protest
• LEARN Listen, read and follow these resources

Care about the future of our industry? Participate in shaping it! 

Wednesday, October 14 | 5-6:15pm | Free

Come catch up, give or get advice, and make new connections with the Southern Oregon production community at OMPA's monthly meetup. Held First Next Wednesday, October 14 from 5-6:15pm. We''ll see you on the small screen!

(FEATURED PROJECT: Watch the trailer for Phoenix, Oregon ?)

Thursday, October 15 | 3-5pm | Free

Are you a BIPOC creative looking for a secure group that gets you? Join OMPA's monthly Creatives of Color Collaborative to network, give or get advice, and ask questions in a private community space. Held Third Thursdays from 3-5pm.

*Note: The virtual Creatives of Color Collaborative events are a safe, private space for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) to talk openly. While we appreciate allies, please respect this need.

FEATURED PROJECT: Watch the trailer for Gabby Smashes ?

Thursday, October 22 | 5-6:15pm | Free

Your voice matters. Your vote counts. Put them to work for you and your industry!

Join OMPA on Thursday, October 22, at 5pm as OMPA''s political strategist walks us through some key candidates in upcoming City of Portland and State of Oregon elections. They'll offer advice based on how supportive candidates are of our industry so you can factor that into your decision. Only you can decide who gets your support!

Bring your ballot, get educated, and VOTE!

?????????WATCH | Michelle Damis-Portland-local SAG-AFTRA President and woman of many talents (Actor, Stunt Performer, Producer, Writer)-is celebrating several new projects. Michelle says, "All have footage from [the] Estacada area that may have been lost!" She performed all the stunts on Alone, and some stunts on The Water Man, plus her husband and fellow OMPA member, Lex Damis, was Stunt Coordinator on The Dark Divide. 

????CELEBRATE | Jim Geduldick-who taught OMPA's 2019 Master Class on virtual production-now joins Dimension Studio as SVP, Virtual Production Supervisor & Head of Dimension North America. Congrats, Jim! 

????CELEBRATE | Oregon Film awarded the 4th-annual Outdoor Adventure Film Grant to a team of Southern Oregon filmmakers and their project, "You Go Girl." Meet the winning team and hear their project vision.

????EXPLORE | NW Documentary just launched a virtual community space for coworking, networking, meetings & more. Check it out! 

???? READ | Oregon Film is starting a blog series covering Oregon production professionals during the pandemic. See what Koerner Camera Systems owner Michael Koerner had to say in the first installment.

????LISTEN | Producer Christi Dodge sent this teaser for the podcast Short of Breath, directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Dustin Morrow. Christi says, "It was my intention to create an immersive audio experience for the audience through elaborate soundscapes, sound effects, and allowing our local Portland cast to record together in the same space-lending a nostalgic old radio feel, minus the cheese."

Fuchsia Lin, Future Cosmos Flow

??Headlines

• October 5, 2020 SAG-AFTRA Production Report for Oregon
• Top Chef crews up with Oregon locals for new season

?? Financial Assistance Updates 

Did you receive PUA or UI between July 26 and September 5? You're eligible to receive an extra $300 unemployment benefit under the Lost Wages Assistance program (LWA).

• PUA recipients don't need to do anything.
• UI recipients must self-certify via the "Lost Wage Assistance" link here.

Oregon Film Festivals ??????

• Through Oct. 25: BendFilm Festival (virtual and drive-In)
• Through Oct. 10: Oregon Scream Week Horror Film Festival (drive-in)
• Through Oct. 15: Ashland Independent Film Festival: Varsity World Film Week (virtual)
• Oct. 22-24: Eastern Oregon Film Festival (virtual)

Rolling Deadlines

• Catapult Film Fund - documentary development grants: ongoing
• Film Independent-Sloan Distribution Grant: ongoing
• Ford Foundation-JustFilms grant: ongoing
• Impact Partners-Documentary Fund: ongoing

Approaching Deadlines

• 2021 Discover Film Awards: final discounted deadline Oct. 20
• Emerging Screenwriters-Shoot Your Short: early deadline Oct. 22 
• 2021 Digiday Video Awards: early deadline Oct. 23
• 25th Annual Webby Awards: early deadline Oct. 30
• *closes soon* Shore Scripts Short Film Fund: final deadline Oct. 31
• *now open* 2021 Southern Shorts Awards: early entry Oct. 31
• 2021 Utah Music Video Awards: October deadline Oct. 31
• 2021 Spotlight Documentary Awards: late deadline three Oct. 31
• National Endowment for the Humanities grants: NEH Grant-Media Projects and NEH Grant-Short Documentaries. These two programs are only open to organizations; independent producers often partner with nonprofits to apply. Both applications are due January 6, 2021.

The federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act grants emergency economic relief to all US workers, including provisions to directly support freelance workers. The new law expands and improves unemployment benefits; grants new funding for small business loans; and provides a one-time stimulus check, among others. Here''s how you can get some financial relief.

It takes about 30 minutes to file an initial claim online. First, make sure you have everything you need:

• your SSN (or Alien Registration Number for non-US citizens)
• work history for past 18 months-including all temporary, part-time, and out-of-state work; have names, addresses, phone numbers, and income available for each
• a good daytime phone number to reach you

1. File an initial claim using the link below.
   • Watch this 6-minute video for instructions on exactly how to answer each question.
   • Write down your confirmation number after submitting-it won''t be emailed to you!
2. You can start to file weekly claim reports the Sunday after submitting, even if you haven''t heard back yet. However, payments won''t be processed until after you''re approved.
3. Look for a letter with your benefits amount, or check the status online.
4. Your first payment will be a check; you can apply for direct deposit after.
5. You''ll be responsible for submitting weekly claim reports as long as you are collecting benefits.

The Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available to companies with less than 500 employees, sole proprietors/ independent contractors, nonprofits, and a few others.

Your loan amount(s) will be determined by your credit score, not your ability to pay it back. There''s no personal guarantee or collateral required. Loans can be used to cover payroll, debt, rent/mortgage, sick leave for employees and more. You can receive loans under both programs; some eligible expenses differ.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
The CARES Act established the new $349 billion Paycheck Protection Program. You can apply your loan to expenses from February 15, 2020, to June 30, 2020. Payments are deferred for 6 months; the 0.5% fixed interest rate applies during that time. If used appropriately, it''s possible to have the whole loan forgiven at the end of the 8-week period.

How to Apply

1. Fill out the Payroll Protection Program application, which will be available here starting April 3. See a sample application.
2. Submit the application with the required payroll documentation to an approved lender by June 30, 2020.

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL)
The SBA recommends you set aside 2 hours for this application, but anecdotal evidence suggests it''s about 30 minutes. 

How to Apply

1. Self-certify how you are eligible for an SBA disaster loan by checking the appropriate box (e.g. independent contractor). Confirm you do not meet any of the disqualifying factors.
2. Enter business info including EIN, gross revenues for the past 12 months, cost of goods sold, date established, and some other basic details.
3. Enter information about the business owner(s)
4. Answer a few final questions-i.e. no we''re not a criminal enterprise-then tell them where to send your money!
   • NOTE: You''ll also be asked if you want to opt into receiving a $10,000 emergency advance right away. The advance is a fully forgivable grant, meaning it doesn''t need to be repaid under any circumstances. If you didn''t use the newer application linked below, or didn''t select the grant the first time you applied, you''ll need to apply again and check the box. 

?? Save the date: Tax Credit Auction, 9/28-10/2

FAQs & Key Points

How does the tax credit/incentive program work?

When you buy tax credits, the incentive program has funds to attract and keep productions in Oregon and support workforce development programs such as Oregon Media Pathways.

Who can benefit from buying these credits?

Anyone with an Oregon state tax liability-that includes you, your vendors, your business-owning friends, your family... everyone!

Should I buy production tax credits?

We''ve heard it from multiple accountants-the answer is a resounding "Yes!"

Why should I buy these tax credits?

• Save money: Get your taxes "on sale" for up to 10% off
• Support our local media production industry and professionals (like you!)
• Choose exactly where our state government spends your tax money

What happens if I''m outbid?

If you are outbid and the entire $14 million of available credits sells out, then your original check will be returned to you in a few weeks. This is actually a good thing for the industry! If we oversell the program, then we can ask for more incentive dollars the next year. 

What if I owe less than I thought I would in taxes?

No problem! You have three years to use your tax credits (2020, 2021, 2022).

Do you know any good accountants I could consult with first?

Yes! You can reach out to David Bixel of MB Tax Pro at 503-595-5890 or david@mbtaxpro.com for advice. 

Do you have any materials I can share with friends/colleagues?

Yes! Feel free to share these FAQs with your network.

OMPA MEMBER NEWS

#ompamember

Project Spotlight | Mike Vaughn, Bottomed Out

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS

Wednesday, May 13 | 5-6:15pm

Social distancing is easy on a giant sound stage! Location Manager Dan Eason will be giving us a virtual tour of the brand new Vision Stages in Troutdale tomorrow at 5pm. Come check it out and connect with your peers. Thanks to the Vision Stages team for hosting this event for us!

Friday, May 15 | 1-2pm

It''s never been more clear. Having policymakers that support the industry is critical. Want to learn more about the candidates and the issues? Bring your ballot and your voters pamphlet to a Virtual Ballot Party this Friday with OMPA''s political strategist.

Thursday, May 21 | 3-5pm

BIPOC folx: Come share how you've been keeping up with the daily grind or taking time for yourself. Ask questions, offer resources, and make your voice heard. Also, take a few minutes to fill out our industry survey to make sure your needs are considered as OMPA moves forward.

UPCOMING OMPA EVENTS

Wednesday, June 17 | Noon-2pm | Free-$10

This is your chance to get legal and insurance advice directly from experts who specialize in providing these services to the entertainment industry. Bring your questions for Justine Avera of ABI Insurance and three of Portland''s best lawyers from Davis Wright Tremaine LLP-Bob Wyman, Christie Totten, and Chris Weathers.

Admission: Free for OMPA Pro & Student members; $10 for Basic & Non-members. Join today and pay what you can.

Thursday, June 18 | 3-5pm | Free

There''s a deep need for community with like-minded people right now. This is an open-discussion, BIPOC-only* event led by OMPA Diversity Committee Co-Chair Fran Bittakis. Fran is Founder & Creative Director of Joop Joop Creative.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Things to Know

Oregon Production Protocols: Be sure to reference the latest Oregon Production Protocols updated June 2, 2020. We incorporated new guidelines developed by IATSE, SAG-AFTRA, Teamsters, and DGA; added a training section; emergency guidelines; and hotlines where you can report safety concerns.

Financial Resources: Updated with grants opening soon. See all opportunities

Virtual Events: We've highlighted a few events below that are relevant to BIPOC creators and/or allyship with this community. See all upcoming events.

• Mondays @ 5pm, June 8-July 27: 2020 Ain't Cancelled Series presented by PDXWOC & B.HER
• Apply by June 10: PDXWIT Diversity Discussion; event is June 17
• June 12: Film Fatales-Safety on Set for Marginalized Creators
• June 18 @ 5:30pm: AMA PDX Discussion Panel-Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion: Our Stories

We don''t know what we''d do without you.

Sponsor Shout Out | Koerner Camera Systems

OMPA MEMBER NEWS

L to R: James Borrego, Producer Annie Lundgren, James Le Gros, Writer/Director Gary Lundgren, and Luis Rodriguez.

Phoenix, Oregon is the little indie that could! An average American story filmed in the small town of Klamath Falls has become a nationwide hit, most recently garnering a New York Times review. Congrats to Gary and Annie Lundgren, and all of the local crew who worked on the film!

DID YOU KNOW? Phoenix, Oregon utilized Oregon's iOPIF incentive to fund their project. OMPA wrote and passed this locally-focused version of the state incentive program 10 years ago. Contribute to our ongoing efforts by joining or donating today. 

Hulu's "For Your Consideration" article on Shrill highlights the bold looks created by costume designer Amanda Needham for season 2 of the show. 

Adult Swim has ordered season 2 of the ShadowMachine-animated series Tuca & Bertie, dropped by Netflix last summer despite a "100% fresh" Tomatometer score.

Thank you to all of our generous sponsors!

Hi Jayden, 

The pandemic continues to impact the media production industry, the need to address racial inequity is more apparent than ever, and the uncertainty of the future is unsettling. Through all of this, however, I want you to know that OMPA-its staff, board, and volunteers-are working hard behind the scenes, having necessary conversations, and focusing on how your industry can emerge stronger and better. 

Members make it possible for OMPA to provide trustworthy and relevant information, publish industry-wide safety protocols, secure support from our policy-makers, and elevate the voices of diverse creatives. With member support, we''ve made progress towards creating a thriving and equitable industry, but there's significant work ahead of us. 

You are needed. We need to band together to protect and strengthen our industry. Now is your opportunity to show your support and join us! Please contribute to this central resource and make sure it remains here for you and for others-now, and in the future.

Thank you. Your support matters. Oregon creates together. 

Lisa Cicala
Executive Director, OMPA

INDUSTRY NEWS

Government Updates

• We reached out to some key candidates in this year's primary to find out how their priorities align with ours and the media professionals we represent. Read their responses.
• Gov. Kate Brown extended Oregon coronavirus state of emergency to July 6. This isn't the same as stay-home orders, but maintains flexibility in issuing orders like that.
• Read the recap of our Q&A with Business Oregon for updates on PUA, PPP, and other government assistance programs.

Things to Know This Week

• This Friday at noon: "Reopening Oregon: What small businesses & startups need to know." More details
• Entertainment Industry Therapist Finder: Find available counselors who are familiar with the media production lifestyle.

FEATURED OMPA EVENT

Wednesday, May 13 | 5-6:15pm PT | Zoom | Free

Location Manager Dan Eason has invited our community to a virtual tour of Vision Stages in Troutdale. Join us and take advantage of this fun opportunity to scout the space for your next shoot, without having to leave home. Thanks to Vision Stages for sponsoring this event!

OMPA MEMBER NEWS

CMD created the Open for Business initiative to help small businesses and brands get their word out during this time. The website also matches brands with content creators/production people to help carry the load-so make sure you''re on it if you're available!

ShadowMachine will be the animation studio behind the upcoming series Little Demon, which Rick and Morty''s Dan Harmon will executive produce.

BendFilm Festival and Portland Film Festival both landed on MovieMaker Magazine's 2020 list of "50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee."

Project Spotlight | Jacob Christensen

#ompamember

Thank you to all of our generous sponsors!

Dear members & friends, 

We saw this article in The Oregonian on April 20 that describes the industries prioritized by the Governor's office as Oregon begins to reopen for business. The media industry was not included.

Behind the scenes, we have worked hard to make sure the right folks are hearing from our industry so they understand the impacts of COVID-19 and consider the needs of Oregon's media production industry. It's disappointing to see that we were not included in this draft framework for re-opening. That's why it's time to make your voices heard. 

We need you-each and every one of you-to reach out to your legislator and the Governor's office to share a collective message: Oregon's media production industry needs to be recognized as a priority in the state's re-opening plans going forward. During stay-at-home orders, Americans are consuming media in record amounts. Your work as storytellers, craftspeople, and artists is important. 

At the same time, we recognize that a sensible and cautious return to work is key. OMPA and our industry partners are developing new industry guidelines to help ensure safety and consistency in production. We will go back to work with a plan in place. But first we need a seat at the Governor's table.

What You Can Do

1. Write to your legislator and to Elana Pirtle-Guiney, Legislative Director at the Governor's office, today. 

2. Email a copy of your message to lisa@ompa.org.

Talking Points

It's important that legislators hear from you in your own words, so tell them about your experience during COVID-19. Here are some talking points to include:

• Why you're writing: You read The Oregonian article this week and were disappointed that media production was not included as a priority industry. 

• Industry impact: 

  • On an annual basis, the Oregon media industry (film, television, animation, video games, commercials and branded content) accounts for $250 million of direct in-state spending with $600 million of annual economic output, affecting thousands of jobs. 

  • This industry creates the content that's needed more than ever right now, from public service announcements to entertainment that is being consumed in record amounts.

  • We are an interconnected industry that relies on and exists due to our transactions with other industries. From day one of production, we spend money on airlines, lodging, restaurants, retail and more. Because of that, our industry will help other businesses and the state recover.

• Personal story: "This industry provides me with a living wage job and benefits..." [Describe what you do and how your life has been impacted by COVID-19 and our industry shutdown.]

• Appeal: Ask your legislator to do whatever they can to ensure that your industry is considered a priority as Oregon's economy re-opens.

• Gratitude: Thank them for their leadership and for working so incredibly hard to keep Oregonians safe during this crisis. 

Thank you for stepping up when you're needed! Please take a few minutes and make your voices heard. 

In solidarity,

LISA CICALA
OMPA Executive Director

Come enjoy the work of local filmmakers with OMPA and BendFilm! We're holding an intimate screening where attendees will have an opportunity to introduce themselves. Contributing OMPA members (i.e. Pro and Student Members) are also invited to submit their work to be included in the highlight reel-see instructions below.  

Program

• 5:30pm Doors Open/Mingle
• 6:30pm Screenings, presentation, and discussion
• 7:30pm Event Ends

Space is limited, so RSVP now! Entry is free for contributing OMPA members, or $15 for general admission. Your ticket includes food and one drink voucher; additional beverages will be available for purchase.

Call for Submission: Please send clips of 5 minutes or less to todd@bendfilm.org. Clips longer than 5 minutes can still be reviewed, but know that nothing is guaranteed to screen. Please submit .mov or .mp4 files 15MB or less. Deadline Sunday, March 22.

Wednesday, April 1 | 7-9pm | AIFF Film Center, Ashland (Directions)

Thursday, April 9 | 6-9pm | Vision Stages, Troutdale (Directions)

Location Manager Dan Eason has invited our community to Vision Stages in Troutdale to enjoy food and beverages from Riverview Restaurant, displays from local vendors, and live music/DJ from Mount Hood Community College. Take advantage of this fun opportunity to scout the space for your next shoot!

Entry is free for contributing OMPA members, or $15 for general admission. Your ticket includes food and two drink vouchers; additional beverages will be available for purchase.

Oregon-made Lorelei will have its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City next month. The film was shot in Portland, Clackamas County, Marion County, Multnomah County, and Washington County during November 2018. Lara Cuddy is co-producer on the project. Cast of local actors cast by Simon Max Hill.  

The new Digital Cinema major introduced at Southern Oregon University last semester is already becoming its most popular degree program. The department is headed by member Andrew Gay, who also teaches a variety of courses in the program with our Southern Oregon Chapter Chair, Courtney Williams.

PORTLAND INTL. FILM FESTIVAL

Saturday, March 14: "Jumping Into Features" with Aimee Lynn Barneburg + others, details here. "Extended Realities"  Discussion on XR and new media, details here. "Writing for New Media Platforms: Television, Gaming, Web, XR & More with Randall Jahnson, details here.

Sunday, March 15: "Compartmentalizing Creativity" with Aimee Lynn Barneburg, Juliana Lukasik, and Azod Abedikichi (Wieden+Kennedy), details here. "Eyes and Ears" with Jamie McMullen (Marmoset) + others, details here.

 _________________________________

March 12
AIGA BIPOC Creative Meetup
Details Here

March 14
Hispanicpros' 4th Annual LatinX Tech Fest
Details Here

March 16
SIGGRAPH Screening + Shop Talk
"Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker"
Details Here

March 19
Portland Motion Designers
& Animators Meet-up
Details Here

ISA Portland Third Thursdays
with Randall Jahnson
Details Here

March 22
QDoc VIP Cocktail Fundraiser/Party
with Darcelle XV & Poison Waters
Details Here

March 24
Ashland Independent Film Festival
2020 Festival Preview Night
Details Here

AIFF Preview Night After Party
Details Here

AMA PDX + Magnet 
Networking Collaboration
Details Here

March 27
CreativeMornings: 
Anthony Hudson/Carla Rossi
Details Here

March 30
OMPA Central Oregon Media Mixer
& Screening with BendFilm
Register Now!

March 31
Mercatus Catering Fair-meet with
local catering companies owned by POC
Details Here

April 1
OMPA Cameras & Cocktails (Ashland)
Register Now!

Freelancers Union SPARK:
Website/Social Media Critiques
Details Here

April 6
MusicPortland First Monday Meetup
Details Here

April 9
OMPA Media Mixer 
Hosted by Vision Stages
Register Now!

• Coronavirus (COVID-19): We're keeping an eye on the local impact of Coronavirus to our community and your industry. 

  • Official Sources: Here are links to information from the US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and Oregon Health Authority. Oregon residents who would like more information on COVID-19 can call 211.

  • OMPA Events: We will bring plenty of hand sanitizer to our events, take additional food/serving precautions, and reschedule as necessary. We encourage elbow bumps and foot taps in lieu of handshakes. And, of course, if you're feeling sniffly or have a cough, please stay home and get better! 

  • Koerner Lens Summit is cancelled for May. We will share a reschedule date when available.

• Women in Film Help Line: This confidential resource is available to all who have experienced sexual harassment or misconduct while working in entertainment, regardless of job or gender. Call 855-WIF-LINE (855-943-5463).

• Support for Curt Klein: Former local Video Assist Curt Klein has been hospitalized with a severe combination of the flu and pneumonia and is currently on life support. There is a Go Fund Me to help his wife and small children through this difficult time if you would like to donate or share it.

• Current Productions: Download this week's SAG-AFTRA Production Report to see what''s shooting around the state.

• 43rd Portland International Film Festival: Through March 15
  • First Cow closing weekend: March 13
  • Discount Codes:
    • Use code festfriends43 and save $5 on a screening ticket
    • Use code 2020study for 50% off a panel or workshop: learn more
• Feminist March at the Hollywood Theatre - various screenings: through March 30
• *new* IndieWomxn Film Festival - presented by BendFilm and Scalehouse: March 12-16
• Forgotten Island screening and live film score: March 13 & 14
• Local Heroes - produced by Southern Oregon University students: March 14
  • 1pm at Meese Auditorium in the SOU Art Building, free
• Jack Fall-premiere of locally-produced film with cast and crew Q&A: March 18
• First Cow-Oregon-made: March 19-26
  • Co-produced by OMPA board member Neil Kopp
  • Q&A with director Kelly Reichardt on March 20
• Filmed by Bike on tour in Bend: March 19
• Terror and Hope - Q&A with filmmaker after screening: March 19
• The Goonies 35th-anniversary tour: details here
  • Coos Bay: March 21
  • Salem: April 5
  • La Grande: April 10
  • Baker City: April 11
  • Bend: April 20
  • Eugene: April 23
• Suppressed: The Fight to Vote screening + panel discussion with The Riveter: March 26
• O!PLA - The Festival of Polish Animation, presented by ASIFA Portland: March 28
• Hollywood Theatre Airport Cinema Showcase - no boarding pass/security check required: April 2
• Point Break - #OregonMade Film Series at Hollywood Theatre: April 6

• Digiday Media Awards: regular deadline March 13
• Discover Film Awards (London, UK): early bird super discount March 14
• Make a Movie Script Submissions-Acting for Kids & Teens: due March 15
• *extended* SIGGRAPH 2020 Reel Reviews-VFX, motion design, 3D; win software prizes: deadline March 16
• Central Eastside Together's Community Grant Program: deadline March 16
• *new & local* Lilla Jewel Awards for Womxn Artists: opens March 16
  • Informational webinar March 12 @ 10am: details here
  • Application Deadline April 17
• Los Angeles Film Awards: regular deadline March 16
• *new* Ad Age Women to Watch: early bird deadline March 18
• Berlin Music Video Awards: FilmFreeway Special Deadline March 21
• *new* The Disruptors - a new fellowship for TV writers of color: deadline March 23
• Oregon Doc Camp Fellowship: application due March 30
• Spotlight Documentary Film Awards: early bird deadline two March 31
• Shore Scripts 2020 Short Film Fund: regular deadline March 31
• SHOOT New Directors Showcase 2020: deadline March 31
• Southern Shorts Awards (Georgia): late entry March 31
• Utah Music Video Awards: March deadline March 31
• Emerging Screenwriters Shoot Your Short Screenplay Competition: regular deadline April 1
• LA Music Video Awards: regular deadline April 4
• *new & local* 2020 Rosey Awards submissions: deadline April 17

• Catapult Film Fund - documentary development grants: ongoing
• Film Independent-Sloan Distribution Grant: ongoing
• Ford Foundation-JustFilms grant: ongoing
• Impact Partners-Documentary Fund: ongoing

• The Studio NW-Acting Workshop with LA Actor/Writer Markus Flanagan: March 15
• *new* LED Lighting Workshop-Portland Filmmaking Meetup: March 18
• 52 Limited-5 Steps to Nail Your Elevator Speech: March 19 

OMPA is dedicated to creating the best business environment for Oregon media production. We can''t do this work without the support of our contributing members. Join us today!

Here''s your chance to influence OMPA in a big way!

Business Resources

• How to Spot Fake Job Offers
• Oregon Production Protocols (updated December 3)

Sponsor Spotlight

Member Highlights

• FORTITUDE | Kenji Sugahara
• Member News
• New Members
• Project Spotlight | Travis Brown

Things to Know

• Oregon''s Industry in the Headlines

FORTITUDE | How many jobs can you juggle in one day?

"It's not often you get face time with an actual pioneer (even if it's all on Zoom these days), but I recently had that privilege when meeting Kenji Sugahara (yes, on Zoom). Though I'm positive he'd want to share the credit, I think Kenji is a central figure in the drive to legitimize drone cinema production in Oregon and across the country..."

Member News

?? Now streaming on Oregon Shakespeare Festival''s O! platform-check out ASH LAND, produced by OMPA Southern Oregon Chapter Chair Courtney Williams. The filmmaking team was awarded the 2021 Outdoor Adventure Film Grant by Oregon Made Creative Foundation & Oregon Film to produce a second film in spring.

?? Netflix documentary Fire In Paradise-produced by Ashland-based OMPA member Gary Kout, and partially filmed in Southern Oregon with a local crew-was nominated for two News & Documentary Emmys. It was nominated for Outstanding Short Documentary and Best Sound, winning the Emmy for Best Sound. Other OMPA members on crew included Tyler Maddox, Chris Vanderschaaf, Kai Shelton, Carly Sertic, and Jayson Wynkoop.

?? New release: Cast Iron Studios says, "We had a blast working on this feature film, and filling many of the roles with familiar Pacific Northwest faces." Check out The Last Champion, just released on-demand and see if you can spot anyone you know!

?? First Cow made it onto AP's best films of 2020, The Guardian's 50 Best films in 2020 in the US list, as well as on the Atlantic's 10 Best films of 2020. Congrats to all the local cast and crew, including producer & OMPA Board Member, Neil Kopp!

Say hello to our newest members!

Project Spotlight | Travis Brown, When in Doubt

• FilmLab Submissions: Willamette Writers invites you to submit your web series pilot script to FilmLab. Deadline December 31. They're also accepting submissions for the Kay Snow Writing Contest. 

• Campaign Media Awards US: early deadline January 28, 2021

• Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Awards: Submissions open 12/21; close 1/15

• Dec. 21 Panel: "Deep Dive with Disney+''s The Mandalorian"-presented by International Cinematographers Guild Local 600

• Dec. 17 "Directing Intimacy" virtual workshop, trauma-informed approach; Producers welcome.

• Jan. 11-25 "Zoom in on Bollywood: An Overview of Indian Film"-NW Film Center

  • Discount for Northwest Film Center Workshops: Use code OMPA2020 for $20 off any class in 2020; OMPA2021 for classes next year.

• Oregon Production Protocols: Venturing back onto set? Remember to follow the most recent protocols, last updated 12/3. 

• Advertise with OMPA: For 2021 or the Annual Showcase. Email info@ompa.org for more info about available opportunities.

• Oregon Cultural Trust Tax Credit: Did you donate to an Arts & Culture organization this year? You can double your impact for free! Eligible nonprofits include MetroEast, Open Signal, and NW Documentary.

Oregon''s Industry in the Headlines

• The Oregonian: Oregon TV and film production continues, with 'Top Chef Amateurs' and more projects observing safety protocols 
• NW News Network: Lights, camera, action! ''Hollywood North'' revved up despite COVID -- and because of it
• OPB: New signs added to the Oregon Film Trail
• Newport News Times: A bit of movie history: Toledo dedicates latest sign on Oregon Film Trail

The current health crisis is already taking a serious toll on the global economy, including media production. We are actively coordinating with local partners to convey this impact to legislators at the city, state, and federal levels. Please join our efforts by participating in the initiatives below.

1) Take our survey about your business impact.

Tell us how your job or business has been affected and keep us updated via our COVID-19 Media Production Impact Survey. 

Every business should complete one of these worksheets so Oregon can be certified as an official coronavirus-related disaster area, which in turn supports access to relief.* Submit your completed worksheet to your local emergency manager.
*This is not an application for relief.

3) Send a letter to Congress via IATSE.

We know many shoots have been cancelled and productions put on hold. Tell Congress to provide entertainment workers with emergency paid leave benefits.

Presenting, FORTITUDE

Climb every mountain
(and enjoy your cupcakes)

How Portland filmmaker Devin Fei-Fan Tau views the world we live in.

Read Devin''s Story
 

Hand Sanitizer or Stress Reducer?

How Dig One helps its community of media professionals stay creative.

Read Eric''s Story

Next OMPA Event | Monthly BIPOC Meetup

Thursday, August 20 | 3-5pm | Free 

Are you a BIPOC* professional seeking community with other Oregon creatives? Join our next Creatives of Color Collaborative to network, give or get advice, and ask questions in a safe space. OMPA Diversity Committee member Karina Lomelin Ripper will host the August meetup. Come say hi, catch up, and make new connections!

About Karina: Karina Lomelin Ripper is a first generation Mexican-American and an independent director and producer. You can check out her work at Fort Ripper. She is also the co-chair of the Portland Film Fatales.

Industry News

Things to Know

• Bookmark it! We''re still adding to our list of places to find and hire creatives who are BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women, or nonbinary.

• Snag a spot in the Southern Oregon Virtual Filmmaking Seminar, presented by Klamath Film and Southern Oregon University's film program. Daily online classes start next Monday, August 10.

• Stream local indie work for free! "Pedal Through" follows three women on a 132-mile bike-packing trip through Central Oregon. The short film was funded by a grant from the Oregon Made Creative Foundation.

• We added three new virtual events this week from Women in Film, PIGSquad, and Film Fatales.

• Campaign US Agency of the Year: Entries open now, nominations due by Nov. 12

Government Assistance Updates

• PUA vs. UI: Stuck in limbo between regular unemployment and PUA? You may get relief soon through a new "Benefits While You Wait" workaround. According to acting agency head David Gerstenfeld, "We are confident this group of Oregonians are eligible for benefits because they lost their job due to COVID-19, we just don't know which program they are eligible for yet." Learn more-but wait to be contacted.

• PPP: Extended deadline is August 8. As of July 31, SBA still had $130 billion to lend. Small operations encouraged to apply! Learn more or find an SBA lender. (A second PPP package is under consideration, but don't rely on that to happen soon, if at all.)

Oregon Production Protocols | Last Updated July 31

In Case You Missed It | "Sound Advice" with Marmoset

Portland residents: Remember to VOTE in the special election!

Commissioner Nick Fish was a huge advocate for us, and by voting you can have an impact on the future of city relations with our industry. Ballots must be mailed by today, August 6, or dropped off by 8pm on August 11. (Lost your ballot? Order a replacement.)

Member News

Tonight, Northwest Film Center launches The Cinema Unbound Drive-In at Zidell Yards. The event series, which runs through September 27, welcomes guests to safely gather and experience the power that truly radical and entertaining cinematic storytelling can bring. Starts August 6 with John Lewis: Good Trouble.

Tune in on August 8 to a virtual release/Zoom watch party for Chess Match, followed by Q&A with star Paul Bright and filmmaker Tim Serewicz.

Oregon-made series Trinkets took home two Daytime Emmys-Outstanding Young Adult Program and Outstanding Writing for a Children's or Young Adult Program. Congrats to the many locals who worked on the show, including First AD & OMPA board member Ime Etuk.

HouseSpecial animated two new characters for CNN's upcoming election coverage. In it, a symbolic donkey and elephant assure they are 6-feet-apart before arguing politics. 

LAIKA is celebrating 15 years! Watch this 5-minute featurette and go behind the scenes with the talented creators who bring their one-of-a-kind style to life.

Shop the PDX Columbia Employee Store through Sunday, August 9!

Wednesday, May 6 | 5-6:15pm PT | Zoom | Free

Join the Southern Oregon version of our Media Mixer, open to production professionals from around the state. We''ll break out into small groups to get to know one another. Come meet some new faces and introduce yourself!