NEW YORK, NY (APRIL 8, 2010) – Beyond Influencing Da Hood Inc has announced today the location, dates and call for submissions for the 1st Annual Networking Getaway Shorts Festival being held this summer on June 19, 2010 in Atlantic City, NJ.
 
Deadlines to submit to the 2010 Networking Getaway Shorts Festival are:
 
SUBMISSIONS OPEN April 12th, 2010
 
OFFICIAL DEADLINE May 12th, 2010
 
In today's independent film community climate, it's all about standing out from the pack and becoming more innovative with your ideas. Actor Ephraim Benton is the perfect epitome of 'Thinking Outside The Box' in his consistent journey to contribute to and showcase the art form. Benton says " I have created a film festival that will surely change the way filmmakers socialize and build upon future relationships that get established from solid foundations". This summer he will present the 1st Annual Networking Getaway Shorts Festival, which is a one of a kind one day retreat that will bring the film community together. Filmmakers heading to Atlantic City will network, have fun, explore and vote for the best short film that will be broad casted on the bus television monitors. One lucky winner will receive $200 and an audience choice award at the networking mixer being held at the Beach Bar Trump Plaza & Casino. Benton says "This will be the annual fundraiser to raise money for my Chillin On Da Corner & Beyond Film Series in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn".
 
For questions regarding submissions please contact blackberetfilms@yahoo.com
 
Check the website for Submission Video, Rules & Regulations. http://www.ngsfest.com/
 
ABOUT BEYOND INFLUENCING DA HOOD INC
B.I.D.H. is a nonprofit community-based organization that was established in 1999 to bring vital opportunities to urban areas, help change the perception and minds of young minorities in Bed-Stuy & it's surrounding areas. Our Annual Boyz 'n' Da Hood BBQ was created in 1999 by a group of young men living in Tompkins Houses in Brooklyn as a way for us to give back to our community. A group of about fifteen men annually pitched in their hard earned money, donated their time and efforts to feed the neighborhood kids, parents, friends and families free of charge. In 2006, the BBQ was moved to H. Von King neighborhood park to accompany the growth and to create more of a neutral setting to welcome more racial diversity, but still keep true to our original mission. We have activities for children like face painting, drawing along with popcorn and cotton candy machines. We have many supporters that donate their time, effort and financial support in a great meaningful gesture that brings the community together in unity and look forward to the next level.
 
ABOUT EPHRAIM BENTON
Ephraim Benton's appetite for becoming a driving force in Hollywood has only been enhanced by goals to become a triple threat in the entertainment industry. He is constantly developing his own projects, and has already executive produced, written, directed and starred in two short films, "Brown Paper Bags" and "3 Quarters of Face Value". He also produced an animated documentary about the life of President Barack Obama titled "HIStory" that was released for free virally this last January.
In 2009, Ephraim Benton continued to make his mark as a versatile actor; Starting with his cameo appearance in the Oscar nominated "PRECIOUS: Based On The Novel Push By Sapphire" directed by the critically acclaimed Lee Daniels. Next Ephraim gave a hilarious performance as Shawn in the film 'Shades of Brooklyn Vol.1' that debuted on HBO Shorts Series. Ephraim also stars in the award winning indie film, "Inside A Change", directed by BET Award video director of the year nominee, Rik Cordero. Ephraim gives a compelling performance as Chris Price, a teenager about to serve 180 days in prison for a first-time offense. When his mother invites him home for dinner, he discovers his family is falling apart, Chris is forced to re-examine his life and how he can bring everyone together for his mother's birthday.
 
Ephraim the Actor, Director, Producer, Writer, C.O.D.C & Beyond Film Series & Networking Getaway Founder is a true talent that can't be denied. So keep watching as the bricks get cemented for a powerful empire that won't be flying under the radar for long.
 
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES CONTACT:
EPHRAIM BENTON
blackberetfilms@yahoo.com






