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| January/February 2009 |
The One Sheet
Volume 09, Issue 1 |
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Welcome to The One Sheet! It brings you current chapter news, information on upcoming opportunities and events, and member and industry news. WIFT's new Web site is complete, with more information and resources added continuously. Get used to checking the Calendar at www.wift-houston.org. It will be updated throughout the month with WIFT, member-related, and industry events. "The One Sheet" will continue not only as a record of WIFT activities and progress, but as an outreach to the community we serve.
Happy New Year!
May these interesting times bring success your way!
With thanks...
If you missed the Holiday Party and Silent Auction, you missed a splendid evening that marked the beginning of a new WIFT tradition. December 2 proved to be an ideal time of the month before everyone's schedule gets out-of-hand, and the Silent Auction proved to be a great way to pick up some gift bargains, as well as handy production-related items to support your 2009 project needs. New members Amy Mitchell and Jake Messinger undoubtedly know how to shop, and have a good time doing it. WIFT appreciates the support of all the Silent Auction shoppers.
New Members Amy Mitchell and Jake Messinger
There are more great photos. Go to www.wift-houston.org. Heather Jackson, our event photographer, has placed photos from this event and past events as well on our Flickr page for your viewing pleasure.
WIFT wants to acknowledge and thank all the Silent Auction Donors who made the evening such a success. Please support these individuals and businesses as often as possible. The donors were Entertainment Partners, The Alley Theatre, Southwest Alternate Media Project (SWAMP), Houston Museum of Natural Science, Pastorini-Bosby Talent, The Editing Company, Yankie Grant, Nuvo Too, Bergamos Spa Retreat, Belly Dance Lessons By Belladona Dance, Wardwell Tax & Business Services, Eleese Lester & Lone Star Actors, ComedySportz Houston, 4SpecialtyGifts.com, Page.713 Model & Talent Agency, FireMonkey Productions, Murder Mystery Madness, Erin Williams, Hotel Derek, Kerry Beyer, Lot 8, Julie Furnas-Schuller, Sam Houston Race Park, Joyce Long and Associates, and youQPon from Steelbird Studios.
Melannie O'Connor, Heather Leigh Jackson, Marc Isaacs
Co-Chairs for the evening were Marc Isaacs, WIFT Vice President, and Rick Ferguson, Executive Director of the Houston Film Commission. Many thanks to you both and to Melannie O'Connor, who hosted the interviews for the video presentation, editing it as well, featuring our guest of honor Cynthia Neely, Immediate Past President of WIFT Houston, and current President Jolene McMaster. The video production was made possible thanks to Houston Community College Department of Audio and Film, and Rick Boyd, who taped the interviews and aided in the post process.
Volunteers assisting in many ways were Julie Furnas-Schuller, Karron Wardwell, Melinda deKay, Melody Moss, Connie Hill, Rob McKinnon, Yankie Grant, Alan Martin, and our talented event photographer Heather Leigh Jackson.
Now you can help by spreading the word about WIFT to your non-member industry colleagues. Invite them to join and get on our email list.
Our members are our most valued asset, and it is our goal to make WIFT your most valued member organization.
Volunteer and make a difference!
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WIFT WEB SITE NEWS |
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WE ARE READY to add you to the Web Site Member Directory. Being there is totally voluntary. But, can you afford not to be? YOU have to make the initial effort. YOU have to send a headshot (jpeg format) by email to wifth@yahoo.com. When you email us, put WIFT WEB DIRECTORY in the subject line. Also include a brief bio and be sure to include your skills. What kind of work are you looking for? Your contact information can be only your e-mail address; you can add phone, Web site, or mailing address. It's your call. It's easy. Check out those members already on the site Directory at www.wift-houston.org and get an idea of amount of detail others have included. It's a business- getting opportunity and it's a benefit of membership. Use it!
What's an Email Address Worth?
Marc Isaacs writes, "Thanks to the new WIFT Web site, we're now  providing another touchpoint for contact with fellow members and by potential clients. The Web site Directory serves as a listing of all members and offers biographical information as well as a member's contact information. How valuable is it? Having your contact information readily available could mean the difference between getting hired and missing a terrific opportunity.
As a WIFT board member and an industry veteran, I often receive calls and e-mails from individuals and companies looking to hire talented people like you. Case in point: Recently, I heard from a contact at a NY production company looking to hire a makeup artist for a shoot in Houston. Thanks for our Membership Directory, I was able to supply them with a name in seconds. The production company contacted the makeup artist I recommended - Andrea Schutter - and hired her that day.
The hard copy of the directory is not always within reach, and that's why directing someone to our Web site is a smart alternative. Make sure your contact information is added to the online directory today. It's easy to do, and the next opportunity could be yours."
 Make a point to check the Calendar often. It's updated daily - whenever something new is scheduled or submitted. Don't find out after-the-fact that you missed a free screening or a workshop, or a great party like the SAG Awards Viewing Party. The Web Site Calendar will have not only WIFT-sponsored events but also classes, seminars, workshops, screenings, and selected events from other industry organizations for you to attend when interest and time allow.
If YOU know of something that would be of interest to our members, please furnish the necessary details - the WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, and HOW MUCH, as well as contact information for the person in charge, with email and Web addresses. WIFT can post it and help get the word out. WIFT, of course, has the right to edit and/or refuse to post any item.
To place an upcoming event, class, or screening, send the information to wifth@yahoo.com. On the subject line of the email type the words WEB SITE CALENDAR. |
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Review of WIFT Houston December Events |
IT HAPPENED IN DECEMBER
BEST OF 2008 FILM AWARDS Presented by The Houston Film Critics Society, and co-sponsored by WIFT Houston
 The Houston Film Critics Society, founded in 2007, announced its 2008 Film Awards in the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston's Brown Auditorium Theater on December 20. Fifteen categories included Best Picture and Performance awards, Ensemble Acting, Cinematography, and Score awards, plus two Outstanding Achievement Awards. The event was free and it was also quite a success!
The awards ceremony was co-sponsored by The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; Houston Film Commission; WIFT Houston, Southwest Alternate Media Project, Houston Cinema Arts Society, and
the Cultural Services of the Consulate General of France in Houston. Heather Jackson was the event photographer and you can view these photographs at www.wift-houston.org. The packed reception was held in the museum galleries.
 Local awards were presented: A well-deserved one to WIFT member and MFAH Film Curator Marian Luntz and MFAH's Film Department for "Outstanding Achievement in Film Programming," and another to Andrea Grover and The Aurora Picture Show for "Outstanding Achievement in Cinema." The guys and gals in the photo above are some of the members of Houston Film Critics Society. Back Row, from left to right are Joe Leydon, Nick Nicholson, President, and Eric Harrison. Middle Row: Joshua Starnes, Michael Sicinski, TJ Calahan, Regina Scruggs, Sally Hill, Jake Hamilton, Louis Parks. Front Row: Michael Bergeron, who will be our guest speaker on February 18 at our Oscar Talk night out. For a complete list of these 2008 Film Awards you can proceed to the Houston Film Critics' Web site at www.houstonfilmcritics.com. BTW, Best Picture went to "...Benjamin Button," Best Actor, Sean Penn in "Milk," and Best Actress, Anne Hathaway in "Rachel Getting Married."
WIFT'S DECEMBER SPOTLIGHT EVENT
The Holiday Party & Silent Auction was held on Decemer 2, at The Tasting Room Uptown Park, and a fine party it was!
It was also a great way to kick off the holiday season.
 The program was dedicated to WIFT Houston's Past President Cynthia Neely. Jolene McMaster presented the stunning crystal trophy selected by charter member and current board member Nancy Clinton, to express the organization's appreciation to Cynthia for her eight years as president, and decade of service to WIFT. Her oft-used phrase of "Onward & Upward" is remembered here as a toast to her future, and I'm sure will remain a continuing mantra for the organization.
Below, Jennifer Joseph gets
close-up caricature by Texas Tim Webb.
eXtreme CloseUp - Another award presented at the Holiday Party was the $100 gift card for dinner at SoVino Bistro & Wine Bar awarded to WIFT Member Connie Hill for submitting the winning name for WIFT Houston's future educational series. The name eXtreme CloseUp (or XCU) beat out the competition. Connie, we know you'll enjoy the prize. Our thanks and appeciation to SO VINO for their contribution to the cause.
EXTREME THANKS
We wish to especially thank those who donated items for the Silent Auction as well as our Volunteers named previously in the opening paragraphs of this issue.
Connie Hill and WIFT VP Marc Isaacs
NEW MEMBERS joining WIFT at the Holiday Party were Christine Bax, Melrose Fougere, John Goad, Jake Messinger, Amy Mitchell, and Felicia Stevens. Houston Cinema Arts Society Managing Director, Lisa Albracht and TXMPA South East Region Representative Susan Fowler joined recently, as did Carlis Lollie, a new student member. Returning Members are Connie Cooper, Anna Peterek, and Heather Tucker.
Photo L-R: Laura Thorsten, AnnMarie Giaquinto, and Amy Mitchell
Recent Renewing Members before year's end include Carolina Boyd, Nicole Fellers, Diana Howie, Christina Huston, James Huston, Joel Irwin,
Josephine John, Rona Lamont, Dr. Patricia Nelson, Sandra Rios, Bea Rouse, Dr. Tahl Rozycki, Kay
Salem, and Ellen Durckel Vestewig.
ALSO IN DECEMBER...
CAMILLE BRYAN, a WIFT Houston Board Member since 2005, stepped down from her At Large position at the end of 2008, and is currently serving on the board of American Advertising Federation Houston. They are getting a jewel. Camille has been an invaluable supporter of WIFT Houston, which of course won't change even with her departure from the board. Locke Bryan Productions will still be a WIFT Corporate Member. Camille and Locke Bryan have been corporate members since 1998, and Camille has been a member since 1997.
Thank you for your guidance and for helping WIFT end the year successfully.
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WIFT HOUSTON EVENTS FOR 2009 |
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COMING EVENTS FOR WIFT MEMBERS IN 2009
Calendar of Events (Full Details on WIFT Web Calendar)
- 1/19/09 - SAG Sponsored Script to Screen Reading
- 1/20/09 - SWAMP Salon - Filmmaking...Texas Style - See www.swamp.org
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2/18/09 - Oscar Talk with Michael Bergeron, Vice President of Houston Film Critics Society, former association publisher and film editor of "Public News." Currently he writes film reviews for "Free Press Houston." His reviews have been published in numerous magazines and publications. Location TBA.
- 3/3 & 3/4/09 - TXMPA Lobby Day, Austin - See www.txmpa.org
- 3/8/09 - WIFT International Short Film Showcase - Details pending
For more exciting event news, please continue and read the "Updates From Your President" below. Something's in the works with New York WIFT to enhance our educational programming in 2009, and beyond.
Also, begin to prepare for
WIFT International Conference which will return to Los Angeles this year. Latest report is that it will be in
either October or November. We want to make a great showing of Houston members. Prepare now!
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Member News, Views, and Happenings |
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Cynthia Neely Reports (01/24/09)
The effort to transform the Houston Astrodome into Astrodome Studios, a  complex bringing together businesses that serve the film and media production industry, continues to move forward rapidly. The plan has been discussed with county officials for several months and the formal proposal is set to be presented in February. The proposed Astrodome Studios will allow producers to find everything they need to create their movies, videos, commercials, video games, sound, and music without leaving the building.
Director/Writer/Producer Richard Linklater supports the concept saying, "It's great news that the Astrodome, in my home town, may become a production studio for Texas. We need a studio big enough to handle major motion pictures. Having vendors and suppliers based right there under one giant roof would create a force to be reckoned with! I'd love an opportunity to make a film there." Companies interested in joining the growing list of potential tenants at Astrodome Studios and those who wish to request investor packets should email info@astrodomestudios.net or visit www.astrodomestudios.net. Sign the petition on the Web site to show your support. The project is being spearheaded by Cynthia Neely and Elise Hendrix (pictured above).
 A SAG sponsored Script To Screen Reading will be held from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Monday, January 26, at Stages Repertory Theatre, 3201 Allen Parkway, Houston 77019. The script reading is of the screenplay "The Stand In," by Shane Mallory and Michael Clossin. The script will be read by a cast of union actors and everyone is encouraged to attend this free presentation. The idea with Script To Screen is to showcase screenplays and the talent of union actors - and sometimes investors step forward after seeing the show. If you are interested in the film business, come for networking and entertainment. Invited audience will include casting directors, producers, agents, and writers. See you there.
(Editor's Note: James Huston is President of S.A.G. Houston.)
Bea Rouse Reports (01/19/09)
 Actor Michael Gregory sends word that "Mexican Gold," now known as "Return of The Outlaws" is scheduled to be released on DVD by Lionsgate on March 17. You can pre-order now at www.amazon.com.
"Return of the Outlaws" stars Lorenzo Lamas, John Castellanos, Michael Gregory, and Corbin Timbrook. WIFT Board Member Yankie Grant appeared as Mrs. Brown. It's rated "PG-13" and is 96 min.
WIFT members on the crew included Bea Rouse, Production Manager, and WIFT board members involved were Yankie Grant as Script Supervisor, and Heather Leigh Jackson as the project's Still Photographer. It was shot in Brackettville, Texas.
"The Man Who Came Back" was released in December on DVD by Lionsgate, and is also available at www.amazon.com. It stars Billy Zane, Sean Young, Armand Assante, George Kennedy, and Eric Braeden. Bea Rouse was Production and Location Manager. Yankie Grant was an Associate Producer. WIFT Member Rona Lamont was Costume Designer. Heather Jackson, Still Photographer; Yankie Grant, Texas Casting; WIFT board member Melody Moss, Script Supervisor; and Sanjay Patel, One-Sheet Designer. This movie was shot in Brackettville, Magnolia and Montgomery, Texas. It's rated "R."
 A publicity still of George Kennedy and Eric Braeden, shot by WIFT board member Heather Leigh Jackson was featured in the December 9, 2008 issue of "Soap Opera Digest." FYI, Eric Braeden also flew Heather to L.A. to photograph the presentation of his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2008. Production Manager Bea Rouse (l) and Heather Jackson (r) are proudly showing off Heather's published photograph above. Heather is also WIFT's event photographer.
Congratulations to all who worked on these projects, adding a few more names to the short list of filmmakers in the Houston area whose works have now reached the ranks of DVD release status. Producers included Chuck Walker and Sam Cable. The DVD distribution deal with Lionsgate is also to include the release of "Blue Eyes" in the near future.
Eleese Lester Reports (1/14/09)
 Eleese reports that she recently completed filming her first starring role in a feature film as Naomi in "The Book of Ruth." Sherry Morris stars as Ruth with Carman playing Boaz, both well- known Christian singers. Also appearing are Dan Haggerty, star of "Grizzly Adams," the television series, and Lana Wood, famed character actor and sister of the late Natalie Wood. "The Book of Ruth" is based on the Old Testament's Ruth and her life. Lester plays the biblical role of Ruth's mother-in-law. The story paints a picture of tolerance, virtues, and ultimate love. With production that began in Arkansas, it concluded on location just outside of Los Angeles. This film is Reel Frog Productions' very first biblical epic.
"Of all the films that I have worked on, this film is absolutely the most important work that I have ever done. It is a beautiful story and I was privileged to work with such a wonderful cast and crew. It truly was a miracle." conveyed Lester. The Film's tentative release date is March 25, 2009.
For more information about Eleese's role in the film visit http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0400330/. To view the trailer of "The Book of Ruth" go to http://www.petersassi.blip.tv/#648993.
David Yarbrough Reports (1/3/09)
David Yarbrough, editor of "Style Points" did a stunning segment with  Deborah Duncan on "Great Day Houston," on December 29th. The topic, "Dress Your Man for New Years!" The link to the clip is still available at http://www.khou.com/greatday/video/?nvid=317008&shu=1. Featured were impeccable styles for him, and that wonderful Brooks Bros. tux, modeled by Lori Freese, complete with hat and walking cane, and the Miracle shirt made popular by Oprah. What a great look for her at any formal occasion, particularly for those special red carpet moments.
Dawn Ireland Reports (12/17/09)
 Dawn Ireland, Artistics Origins, Inc., reports that her ebook, "Mastering Your Money" won in the 2008 New England Book Festival competition in the ebook category. Congratulations! Here is the link: www.diyconvention.com. Dawn says the ebooks are the last category at the very end of the long list. She adds, "If you want to see the cover, you can find it on my new website: www.dawnireland-writer.com." She also wrote "The Puppy Baby Book." You can find out more about that at www.thepuppybabybook.com.
For screenwriters, Dawn leads a "Critique" group for writers whose quest is to perfect their work and help each other "get to the finish line." They meet at 6:00 PM on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at H-E-B Central Market on Westheimer. More info at http://writers.meetup.com/968/, or e-mail her at dawnireland@prodigy.net.
Pastorini-Bosby Talent Reports (11/25/08)
  Actors represented by Pastorini-Bosby Talent, (L to R) Werner Richmond, Jason Douglas, and David Born, were cast in TNT's "The Librarian: Curse of the Judas Chalice." Directed by Jonathan Frakes (Star Trek:The Next Generation), "Curse of the Judas Chalice" is the third installment of TNT's successful Librarian franchise. The film stars Noah Wylie (ER), Bob Newhart (Elf, The Bob Newhart Show), Jane  Curtin (3rd Rock from the Sun) and Bruce Davison (X-Men, Knight Rider).
A cable movie, "The Librarian" premiered on TNT December 7th, and will be released on DVD February 24. Buy it! This is such fun, and it was filmed in N.O. In fact all three of the movies in this franchise make fine viewing.
Synopsis: Flynn Carsen (Noah Wyle) is having a difficult time coping with his career as a Librarian. Desperate for a little R&R he heads to New Orleans and stumbles deep into the heart of darkness! Flynn finds love in the form of the beautiful Simone (Stana Katic) and together they journey through Southern Bayous and ghostly cemeteries, battling vampires who thirst for blood. But just who is Simone? And what secrets does she hold? Faced with dangers and mysteries beyond mortal reasoning, will Flynn finally learn to accept his role as The Librarian?
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Jobs, Jobs, Jobs... |
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WIFT VP Marc Isaacs spotted this posting on the Texas Association of Broadcasters Web site, www.tab.org/job-bank/find-job-details/2878/. It was posted January 15.
Job Details: Show Host/Reporter/Producer
First Name: Vickie
Last Name: Angenend
City: Houston
State: Texas
Category: Television
Job Description: Can't get enough of the latest in fashion, beauty, and everything in between? KTRK-TV, the ABC/Disney owned station located in Houston, TX has an immediate opening for a Show Host/Reporter/Producer for an innovative new programming project. Qualified candidates must be able to execute all aspects of the television story telling process, including the creation and booking of innovative show segment ideas. Minimum 2 years of On-Air television and producing experience required.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a first-class station and live in a fun and affordable city. Candidates must apply on-line at www.disneycareers.com by uploading a resume file. Please Reference Job ID: 185892 on all materials submitted. Send non-returnable DVD or VHS resume tape to the attention of Human Resources, KTRK-TV, 3310 Bissonnet; Houston, TX 77005 and include the job reference ID. No phone calls please. Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D.Company Website www.abc13.comStation / Company KTRK ABC13Date Posted 2009-01-15 10:19:14
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WIFT Houston Updates From Your President |
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!
And welcome also to our continuing members who take the time to view our e-news. This year may prove to be a real challenge, but we will work together to accomplish new heights.
Collaboration will be the focus for the year ahead, a year which will require the active participation of all members, and the cooperation of the various organizations who work toward similar goals - improving the industry in our great city. Indeed, this means enthusiastic volunteering and dedicated follow through.
Teaming Up With New York WIFT....
Expect a different approach to some of our programming opportunties this year. As a part of our eXtreme CloseUp educational series, we'll be able to watch and learn from some of NYWIFT's finest presenters. We don't have to be envious any longer about the guests they offer just because they're in NYC, and have such a strong history in the business. Working with Janet Stilson, NYWIFT's VP/Programming, I've been able to make arrangements for New York WIFT to begin taping selected programs - a 2-camera shoot, with simple editing - that will provide us an opportunity to learn from their vast pool of talented guests.
The first such program was taped from NYWIFT's January 21, 2009 program, "Learning The TV Writer Ropes," featuring Abby Finer, co-author of a book for Warner Bros. Television on how to write a TV script. Finer will also talk about the application and script submission process for an intensive scriptwriting workshop being produced for NYWIFT. Six NYWIFT members will be chosen to participate in this six-week program starting in summer 2009.
Abby Finer began her TV career at ABC Entertainment in Los Angeles, where she worked in the comedy, reality and variety series development departments. Four years later, she landed a development deal with Will Smith's Overbrook Entertainment and eventually became an executive producer of Comedy Central's Kenny vs. Spenny.
With Abby in this presentation is her producing partner Emily Cohen. Emily is a veteran TV and broadband producer with over 20 years of production experience. Together they are creating and developing scripted and unscripted programming for all the networks. Previously, Emily was a Development Executive at VH1, credited with piloting "I Love the 80's." Additional credits include Hard Rock Live! for VH1, the PBS special Linda Eder in Concert and NBC's Macy's 4th of July, as well as live Webcasts, countless specials, series and pilots. She was a supervising producer on Late Night with Conan O'Brien and a Production Executive for Nickelodeon.
This is only the beginning of our programming possibilities by teaming up like this. I look forward to the day when, as a routine offering in our educational series, we can watch NY and LA programs, and other chapters, too, with live transmissions from their meeting facilities to ours.
With all that we have to offer in our City and in our State, isn't it time for our production industry to catch up to our neighboring states? We should be telling more of our stories to a wider audience, and showing off the diversity and beauty of our city and state not only through national and international advertising spots, but through film and television programming that is reflective of life in Houston, its urban and rural areas, its art and entertainment offerings, its population diversity, its educational opportunities, its architecture, its business culture, space center, medical center, and so much more. A part of the country still thinks of Houston as a town of "Cowboys and Oil," as evidenced in a December CNN news report comparing Calgary to Houston, as "...a town of Cowboys and Oil."
In the late 1950s through 1963, New York City was known for the TV series, "Naked City," with its famous closing tag line, "There are a million stories in the Naked City, this has been one of them." NYC was always the star of the show and extensive location shooting was its trademark. Texas history, Texas politics, Texas crime, its wealth, its poverty, and its generosity, all present enumerable story opportunities marketable to a curious world audience. It's Houston's time to capitalize on its popularity, time to tell its stories, and time for the collective creativity here to write and produce these stories - right here on the streets of Houston. Chicago, too, in the late 1950's, had it's popular crime series starring Lee Marvin, "M Squad." Houston tried it once in 1987-88, with "Houston Knights," but without the success of the NYC and Chicago episodes. The title alone unsells it in my opinion, but we shouldn't give up so easily.
So, my challenge to you for the months and years ahead is to work together and make Houston a happening place for TV programming and filmmaking. Let's change the face of production in our state; let's become that force that makes it finally happen here. Let's develop our skills, encourage more media arts education in Houston, support our talent, pass the appropriate legislative incentives, and put our industry to work. After all, there are at least five million stories in Houston, so LET'S CREATE.
AND DON'T FORGET THIS EASY WAYS TO HELP WIFT HOUSTON: Randalls Good Neighbor Program Helps WIFT Houston. For several years Randalls Food Market and Pharmacy have been in partnership with WIFT Houston through its Good Neighbor Program. You can stop by your closest Randall's store and link WIFT's Account Number 8870 to YOUR Remarkable Card. The more people who link their Remarkable Card to WIFT's number, the more money WIFT will receive. Do take the time to stop by the Courtesy Booth of your Randalls Store (just once to set it up) and further support WIFT in this manner.
ALSO...
- Please contact Volunteer Committee Chair Melody Moss at martinimoss@yahoo.com to put your name on the "Volunteers List." She'll call you when help is needed.
- Contact your Membership Chair Yankie Grant at yankiegrant@sbcglobal.net, if you have a question on membership or want to refer a new member.
All the best for the New Year!
Jolene McMaster | |
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Thank you for your continued support of WIFT Houston!
Contact Information
phone: 713-788-8075
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Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to provide accurate information, but on occasion your editor may slip up. Our purpose here is to share quality information among WIFT's members. WIFT Houston assumes no liability for omissions or errors, nor can it guarantee the quality of services of those mentioned herein. |
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