Fall’09 Update

Dear ASIFA-East International Members,It is time once again for ASIFA International to hold its General Assembly, which occurs every three years. This year ASIFA will be holding the GA at the fine Cinanima Festival in Espinho, Portugal. The GA will be held November 10, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.According to ASIFA Statutes, as an International Member, it is your privilege to attend the Assembly and to exercise your right to vote on any ASIFA business that come before the Assembly. If you’ll be at Cinanima this year, do stop by the GA and meet your fellow ASIFA members from around the world.If you are not attending, but wish your vote to be counted via proxy, you may designate any paid-up International Member to represent you. Contact me if you like at raykosarin@aol.com for details.But if you can attend, you will be delighted with this festival. Bring your camera and leave that silly pitch bible at home; there’s no wheeling and dealing here – this festival is about the filmmakers and films. It’s an unpretentious yet respectful affair with friendly, capable organizers, excellent projection, and a modest number of screenings that leave you time to walk the cool beach and catch up with your animation friends. And be sure not to miss the port or the freshly caught grilled fish so splendid you’ll think happily of it for years afterward. (And if you’re vegetarian, just have a little more port!)Ray Kosarin