*MEDIA ADVISORY/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY*

FOR NOV. 28 & 29

WHAT:       “A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention

WHEN:       Friday, Nov. 28 @ 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 29 @ 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

                  MEDIA NOTE: A full schedule of convention activities follows this advisory. It is also posted at www.achristmasstoryhouse.com.

WHERE:     Renaissance Cleveland Hotel

                  24 Public Square

Cleveland, OH  44113

MEDIA NOTE: Additional activities to occur at A Christmas Story House & Museum.

WHY:          The beloved holiday classic and family-favorite film “A Christmas Story” turns 25 this holiday season. To mark this special milestone, “A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention takes place Nov. 28-29 (Thanksgiving weekend) in Cleveland.

                  “A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention brings “A Christmas Story” fans (known as Ralphies) to Cleveland where many exterior scenes of the movie were filmed. Cleveland is also the location of A Christmas Story House, the home featured in the film that was restored to its original movie appearance and opened to visitors Thanksgiving weekend two years ago.

                  Actors from “A Christmas Story” who played Randy, Flick, Scut Farkus, Grover Dill, Miss Shields, Santa’s two evil elves and Black Bart will reunite for the 25^th anniversary celebration.

                  Members of the media will have the opportunity to:

·         Interview cast members, A Christmas Story House & Museum owner Brian Jones and executive director Steve Siedlecki

·         Talk to “A Christmas Story” fans who came near and far for the 25^th anniversary

·         Witness the world premiere of “ClarkWORLD,” a film on the life, works and tragic death of “A Christmas Story” director Bob Clark (proceeds of screening to benefit Mothers Against Drunk Driving)

·         Ride in the original fire truck used in the movie from Flick’s famous tongue-on-the-flagpole scene

·         See newly acquired costumes from the film and a special preview of Broadway’s upcoming “A Christmas Story – The Musical”

CONTACTS:      Emily Vincent                          Jill Doherty

                         Landau Public Relations           Landau Public Relations

                         216-912-2848 (office)                216-912-2847 (office)

                         216-832-4491 (cell)                  720-273-6330 (cell)

                         evincent@landaupr.com       jdoherty@landaupr.com

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:

Emily Vincent                            Annette Martin

Landau Public Relations          Lenzi Martin Communications

216-912-2848                           312-587-3781

evincent@landaupr.com             alenzi@attglobal.net

Screening of film about the life, works and tragic death of “A Christmas Story” director Bob Clark

to benefit the Cleveland chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving

CLEVELAND – Nov. 19, 2008 – “A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention that takes place Nov. 28-29 at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel in Cleveland is filled with many events and activities related to the holiday classic film. Held in the city where many memorable parts of the movie were filmed, the pinnacle event of the two-day convention is the world premiere of “ClarkWORLD,” a documentary about the life, works and tragic death of Bob Clark. The screening will take place Saturday, Nov. 29, at 8 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom of the hotel.

Clark was an American actor, director, screenwriter and producer. He was best known for directing and writing the script with Jean Shepherd to “A Christmas Story.” He even made an appearance in the film as Swede, the neighbor who asks The Old Man about the proudly displayed leg lamp in the window. He and his 22-year-old son, Ariel, died April 4, 2007, when Clark’s car was hit head-on by a drunk driver.

“Cleveland is really where it all began,” said Deren Abram, who wrote, directed and produced the documentary. “And now, 25 years later with the 25^th anniversary celebration of ‘A Christmas Story’ and the fans that are more like an extended family, there’s no other place we’d rather premiere ‘ClarkWORLD.’ In essence, it’s like coming home.”

Following Clark’s death, a nonprofit production company called ClarkWORLD Films was formed by Abram and Lyne Leavy, both friends and associates of Clark who wished to keep his spirit and vision alive. Its mission is to create films that positively impact the world and to raise money for social needs. “ClarkWORLD” is the company’s first film, and it aims to help educate and promote awareness of drunk driving. Proceeds from the documentary’s premiere screening will go to the Cleveland chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

“ClarkWORLD” features many of the people who worked closely with Clark, including Kim Cattrall, Jon Voight, Denise Richards, Scott Baio and Peter Billingsley (who played Ralphie in “A Christmas Story”). The documentary covers how Clark would effortlessly switch genres, studios and even countries – anything to continue making movies – when success was met with high-profile box office failures. But as Clark continued to struggle against a series of flops, he was simultaneously being heralded as an inspiration to a new breed of filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino, John Carpenter and many others, citing their influence from his iconic films such as “Porky’s,” “Murder by Decree,” “Turk 182,” “Black Christmas,” and the legendary film “A Christmas Story” (which is on more than 100 critics’ lists of top 50 movies of all time and the best Christmas movie of all time). As the film weaves between various anecdotes told by some very famous people, viewers discover insight to Clark’s quirky and unpredictable personality as well as his integrity and genius. “ClarkWORLD” is a riveting, hilarious, edgy and poignant film that takes us on a whimsical journey inside the world of Bob Clark.

“This is more than a biography – this is a celebration of a life’s work that continues to entertain so many people, especially at this time of year,” Abram said.

“This is about Bob,” Leavy added, who serves as executive producer of the film. “I think we got it right.”

In celebration of Clark’s long-standing commitment to Toys for Toys, ClarkWORLD Films and A Christmas Story House & Museum will host a toy drive during both days of the 25^th anniversary convention at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. This will serve as the local kick-off event for the Marine’s ’08 Toys for Tots campaign. Convention attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to the hotel. Those who donate will receive a voucher for free popcorn, which is good with any ticket purchased for the ClarkWORLD premiere.

During the “ClarkWORLD” premiere, representatives from the Marines will be on-hand to man the toy collection bins, and the two Genie Awards (the Canadian equivalent of the Oscars) won by “A Christmas Story” for Best Achievement in Direction and Best Screenplay that are on loan from Clark’s estate will be on display.

Tickets to the premiere screening of ClarkWORLD are $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12. VIP tables also are available for $250 and include eight seats, drinks, snacks, candy and a leg lamp centerpiece to keep as a souvenir. For tickets or more information, call A Christmas Story House & Museum at 216-298-4919 or visit http://www.achristmasstoryhouse.com/index.php/convention/clarkworld-premiere/. Tickets also can be purchased the day of the event at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel.

For more information on “A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention,” including a schedule of events, hotel packages and convention tickets, visit www.AChristmasStoryHouse.com.

ClarkWORLD Films, Inc., is a nonprofit production company formed in 2007 by a few of the people that worked closely with Clark for many years and wish to keep his spirit and vision alive. Its mission is to create films that positively impact the world and raise money for social needs. For more information on ClarkWORLD Films, visit www.clarkworldfilms.com.

A Christmas Story House & Museum is located just five minutes from downtown Cleveland at 3159 W. 11^th St. in the Tremont neighborhood. It is open year-round on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. From Nov. 26 through Dec. 31, the house is also open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tours of the house run every 30 minutes. Regular admission tickets are $7.50 for adults, $6.50 for seniors, $5.50 for children (ages 7 to 12) and free for children ages 6 and under. For more information or for directions, visit www.AChristmasStoryHouse.com or call 216-298-4919. 

# # #

eBay Giving Works A Christmas Story Experience Charity Auction

A Christmas Story House & Museum    Wounded Warrior Project

http://www.ebay.com/AChristmasStory

WHO:     

Bid on a chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend Christmas reliving your favorite moments from the cult classic “A Christmas Story” at the original A Christmas Story House & Museum in Cleveland. eBay Giving Works, eBay’s program for charity listings, and A Christmas Story House & Museum are helping one lucky winner and three friends experience “A Christmas Story” like never before. All your favorite moments are up for grabs on this, the movie’s 25^th anniversary. From leg lamps to BB guns to bunny suits and a Chinese Christmas dinner, celebrate “A Christmas Story” at Ralphie’s house for a holiday to remember while giving to a great cause.            

The eBay Giving Works A Christmas Story experience charity auction benefits the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). The charity was selected by Brian Jones, owner of A Christmas Story House & Museum and former Navy intelligence officer. The mission of WWP is to honor and empower wounded warriors. Its goal is to ensure this generation of veterans is the most successful and well-adjusted in our nation’s history. WWP offers services like adaptive sports opportunities, benefits and career counseling and TRACK – the country’s first and only program for veterans that addresses their unique needs and takes an integrated approach to rehabilitating the mind, body and spirit.

WHAT:

·  $1800 in airfare for four (4) from anywhere in the lower 48 states

·  Two (2) Day, two (2) Night suite stay for four (4) provided by the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel

·  Christmas Eve dinner for four (4) provided by Pearl of the Orient Chinese restaurant

·  Christmas Day dinner for four (4) provided by Sans Souci, an award-winning, fine-dining restaurant in the Renaissance Hotel

·  Christmas Eve and Christmas Morning accommodations for four (4) at A Christmas Story House & Museum

·  $200 stipend for food & beverages during stay

WHEN:   Charity auction begins: Thursday, Nov. 17
               Charity auction ends: Saturday, Nov. 26        

WHERE:  Place your bids at http://www.ebay.com/AChristmasStory  

CONTACTS: 
Ryan Wallace
Kaplow for eBay
212.221.1713
rwallace@kaplowpr.com
http://www.ebayholidaymediasource.com

Emily Vincent
Landau Public Relations for A Christmas Story House & Museum
216.912.2848
evincent@landaupr.com
http://www.achristmasstoryhouse.com

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

U.S.CONTACT:                             CANADIAN CONTACT:

Emily Vincent                                 Tyler Schwartz

Landau Public Relations               A Christmas Story House

216-912-2848                                289-213-8810

evincent@landaupr.com                tyler@achristmasstoryhouse.ca

CLEVELAND – Nov. 4, 2008 – Coinciding with the release date of the 25^th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition DVD of “A Christmas Story,” A Christmas Story House Inc. today announces that it has expanded operations into Canada. The Ohio-based company that owns and operates A Christmas Story House & Museum in Cleveland and an online leg lamp company and gift shop selling items relating to the 1983 holiday film “A Christmas Story” has opened an online branch based in Oakville, Ontario. The Web site for the Canadian operation is www.AChristmasStoryHouse.ca.

“The movie was filmed in three locations – Toronto and St. Catharines, Ontario, and Cleveland, Ohio – so it’s only fitting that we be able to serve the customers in the communities that made this film possible,” said Brian Jones, owner of A Christmas Story House. “We are happy to finally be able to meet the demand for leg lamps north of the border.”

To lead the branch, A Christmas Story House has Tyler Schwartz as director of Canadian operations. An Oakville-native, Schwartz is a true fan of the film. He has researched all of the film’s shooting locations and documented his two-year adventure in a 90-minute film called “Road Trip for Ralphie.” While filming this documentary, Schwartz struck up a friendship with Jones who later approached him about opening a Canadian location.

Schwartz’s “Road Trip for Ralphie” documentary will premiere at “A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention, held Nov. 28-29 in Cleveland that will bring thousands of fans of the movie for two days of activities and events at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. Other Canadian-related highlights at this year’s convention include:

· A reunion of actors from the movie, including Canadians Tedde Moore (Miss Shields), Zack Ward (Scut Farkus) and Dwayne McLean (Black Bart)

· Rides in the original fire truck used in the movie from Flick’s famous tongue-on-the-flagpole scene with proceeds benefiting the Chippawa Volunteer Fire Department of Niagara Falls, Ontario, which owns and maintains the fire truck

· The unveiling of newly acquired costumes from the film which have been in storage these past 25 years at a Toronto costume company

· The first public display of two Genie Awards won by “A Christmas Story” for Best Achievement in Direction and Best Screenplay on loan from the estate of Bob Clark, director of “A Christmas Story”

“A Christmas Story” premiered around Thanksgiving of 1983. It starred the late Darren McGavin as The Old Man and Peter Billingsley as Ralphie who famously pleaded for a Red Ryder BB gun, although everyone assured him he would only shoot his eye out. The film became a holiday favorite years after its theatrical release and is celebrated annually on cable in the United States with a daylong marathon.

For more information on “A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention,” including a schedule of events, hotel packages and convention tickets, visit www.AChristmasStoryHouse.com.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Emily Vincent

Landau Public Relations

216-912-2848

evincent@landaupr.com

“A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention

to take place Nov. 28-29

CLEVELAND – Oct. 15, 2008 – The beloved holiday classic and family-favorite film “A Christmas Story” celebrates its 25^th anniversary this November. To mark this special milestone, A Christmas Story House & Museum presents “A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention on Nov. 28-29 (Thanksgiving weekend) in Cleveland. The event features a reunion of actors from the movie.

“A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention will bring “A Christmas Story” fans (known as Ralphies) to Cleveland where many exterior scenes of the movie were filmed. Cleveland is also the location of A Christmas Story House, the home featured in the film that was restored to its original movie appearance and opened to visitors Thanksgiving weekend two years ago. In addition to the Parker family home, guests can tour the museum to see original movie props and costumes, including Randy’s “I-can’t-get-my-arms-down” snowsuit, and visit the gift shop to take home their own major award (a leg lamp) and other movie-related items.

The majority of convention events will take place at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. Other activities, like taking your best shot at the BB gun range (weather permitting), will occur at A Christmas Story House. The celebration and convention coincides with Winterfest, an annual festival that kicks off the holiday season in Cleveland.

Highlights of this year’s convention include:

·  Appearances by eight of the original cast members, including Ian Petrella (Randy), Scott Schwartz (Flick), Tedde Moore (Miss Shields), Zack Ward (Scut Farkus), Yano Anaya (Grover Dill), Dwayne McLean (Black Bart), Patty Johnson (Head Elf) and Drew Hocevar (Male Elf)

·  The premiere of two documentaries: “ClarkWORLD” about the life and works of “A Christmas Story” director Bob Clark and “Road Trip for Ralphie’” about the forgotten locations, memorabilia, and facts of “A Christmas Story”

·  Rides in the original fire truck used in the movie from Flick’s famous tongue-on-the-flagpole scene with proceeds benefiting the Chippawa Volunteer Fire Department of Niagara Falls, Ontario, which owns and maintains the fire truck

·  The unveiling of newly acquired costumes from the film, including those worn by the Parker family on Christmas morning

·  The first public display of two Genie Awards (the Canadian equivalent of the Oscars) won by “A Christmas Story” for Best Achievement in Direction and Best Screenplay on loan from Clark’s estate

·  A special preview of the upcoming “A Christmas Story – The Musical”

Brian Jones, owner of A Christmas Story House, encourages all fans to come to this quarter-century celebration since future conventions may not occur on an annual basis. “After four years of consecutive conventions, A Christmas Story House & Museum is going to take a couple years break from hosting ‘A Christmas Story’ Convention,” Jones said. “This will be your last chance for awhile to see the actors and revel in the all the events of the convention weekend. We have pulled out all the stops to make this year’s convention that much more memorable.”   

“A Christmas Story” premiered around Thanksgiving of 1983. It starred the late Darren McGavin as The Old Man and Peter Billingsley as Ralphie who famously pleaded for a Red Ryder BB gun, although everyone assured him he would only shoot his eye out. The film became a holiday favorite years after its theatrical release and is celebrated annually on cable with a daylong marathon.

For more information on “A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention,” including a schedule of events, hotel packages and convention tickets, visit www.AChristmasStoryHouse.com.

A Christmas Story House & Museum is located just five minutes from downtown Cleveland at 3159 W. 11^th St. in the Tremont neighborhood. It is open year-round on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. From Nov. 26 through Dec. 31, the house is also open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tours of the house run every 30 minutes. Regular admission tickets are $7.50 for adults, $6.50 for seniors, $5.50 for children (ages 7 to 12) and free for children ages 6 and under. For more information or for directions, visit www.AChristmasStoryHouse.com or call 216-298-4919.

                                                    # # #

2008 marks the 25^th anniversary of the beloved holiday film “A Christmas Story.” A Christmas Story House & Museum is hosting its fourth annual event to mark the occasion: “A Christmas Story” 25^th Anniversary Celebration & Convention. The convention will feature appearances by eight original cast members (Black Bart, Randy, Flick, Scut Farkus, Grover Dill, Miss Shields and the two evil elves), the premiere of two documentaries about the movie, rides in the original fire truck from the movie, the unveiling of original movie costumes, a BB gun range in the back yard of the house (weather permitting) as well as other events. The celebration will take place Thanksgiving weekend (Nov. 28-29) at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel, coinciding with Cleveland’s Winterfest 2008.                                                         

The Renaissance Cleveland Hotel is the site for almost all of the celebration and convention events. Other activities will take place at A Christmas Story House & Museum, which is a short five-minute drive from the downtown hotel. For “A Christmas Story” fans coming from outside the Cleveland area, the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel is offering all-inclusive accommodations packages. Hotel guests will receive two complimentary Ralphie Passes and early access to an exclusive meet-and-greet with the actors Saturday morning.

CONVENTION SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, NOV. 28, 2008

10 AM – 5 PM: A Christmas Story House & Museum opens. Tour the house, visit the museum and stop by the gift shop. Also, ride the fire truck from the movie and take your best shot (without shooting your eye out) at the BB gun range in the house’s back yard (weather permitting). 
Location: A Christmas Story House. 
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass ($40 Adults, $25 Children & $35 Seniors); Separately $7.50 Adults, $5.50 Children. 

10 AM – 5 PM: Fire truck rides at A Christmas Story House. Ride the original fire truck used in the movie from Flick’s famous tongue-on-the-flagpole scene. Rides begin at A Christmas Story House and travel around the neighborhood. Proceeds benefit the Chippawa Volunteer Fire Department (Niagara Falls, Ontario), which owns and maintains the fire truck. 
Location: A Christmas Story House. 
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $5 Adults, $3 Children.

12 PM – 5 PM: Meet actors from “A Christmas Story” and get their autographs. Meet Black Bart, Randy, Flick, Scut Farkus, Grover Dill, Miss Shields and the two Evil Elves.
Location: Ambassador Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. 
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $10 Adults, $5 Children. Autograph fees apply. 

2 PM: Original Genie Awards unveiling at A Christmas Story Museum. Witness the unveiling of the two Genie Awards won by “A Christmas Story” on public display for the first time ever. The Genie Award is the Canadian equivalent of the Oscars. The exhibit is on loan from the estate of “A Christmas Story” director Bob Clark for the 25^th anniversary holiday season only.
Location: Canada Room of A Christmas Story Museum.
Cost: Free with House and Museum admission.

4 PM – 6 PM: Screening of “A Christmas Story.” Enjoy the movie on the big screen.
Location: Gold Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. 
Cost: Free.

7 PM – 9 PM: Premiere of “Shooting Your Eye Out: The Untold ‘Christmas Story.’” Join the actors from “A Christmas Story” for the premiere of this documentary. Directed by Bill Szarka,  “The Untold Christmas ‘Story’” is a documentary about the making of “A Christmas Story” and the phenomenon it has become. The documentary includes commentary and insights from the actors about their memories from the making of the movie. DVD copies of the films will be for sale on-site at the convention and at A Christmas Story House Gift Shop. 
Location: Gold Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. 
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $7 Adults, $5 Children.

9 PM: Cocktail reception with actors from “A Christmas Story” immediately following the premiere of “The Untold “Christmas Story.’”  
Location: Gold Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. 
Cost: $10 per person, which includes one free drink per ticket. Tickets can be purchased at the door. Two tickets are included with the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel package.

SATURDAY, NOV. 29, 2008

9 PM – 7 PM: A Christmas Story House & Museum opens with extended hours. Tour the house, visit the museum and stop by the gift shop. Also, ride the fire truck from the movie and take your best shot (without shooting your eye out) at the BB gun range in the house’s back yard (weather permitting). 
Location: A Christmas Story House. 
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $7.50 Adults, $5.50 Children.

10 AM: Original movie costume exhibits unveiled at A Christmas Story Museum. Exhibits include costumes from the Parker family Christmas Morning and the Black Bart Bandits scenes. These costumes have never been seen by the public and are part of a recently discovered collection thought to have been lost to the ages. These exhibits will be on display through Sept. 30, 2009, when they will rotate out to make room for other costume displays.
Location: A Christmas Story Museum.
Cost: Free with House and Museum admission.

10 AM – 5 PM: Lolly the Trolley’s “Ralphie Express” will provide round-trip transportation between the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel and A Christmas Story House. The trolley departs every half-hour. Due to limited street parking at A Christmas Story House, attendees are encouraged to park downtown near the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel and take the trolley to the house. 
Location: Renaissance Cleveland Hotel main entrance. 
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $7 Adults, $4 Children for round-trip transportation.

10 AM – 5 PM: Fire truck rides at A Christmas Story House. Ride the original fire truck used in the movie from Flick’s famous tongue-on-the-flagpole scene. Rides begin at A Christmas Story House and travel around the neighborhood. Proceeds benefit the Chippawa Volunteer Fire Department (Niagara Falls, Ontario), which owns and maintains the fire truck. 
Location: A Christmas Story House. 
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $5 Adults, $3 Children.

10 AM – 12 PM: Exclusive actor meet-and-greet for Renaissance Cleveland Hotel guests only. Meet actors from the movie and get their autographs. Meet Black Bart, Randy, Flick, Scut Farkus, Grover Dill, Miss Shields and the two Evil Elves. (The meet-and-greet opens to the general public at 12 PM.) 
Location: Ambassador Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. 
Cost: Included in Renaissance Cleveland Hotel package and open to hotel guests only. Autograph fees apply.

10 AM – 11:30 AM: Speakers Series – Session #1. Find out what REALLY happened behind the scenes of “A Christmas Story.” Hear from guest speakers who share their special stories about the making of the movie. To join the sessions, you must have a Ralphie Pass that gets you into all of the weekend’s events. Ralphie Passes can be purchased online.

·         “A Christmas Story” Class Reunion – a panel discussion with several of Ralphie’s grown-up classmates. Find out what happened when Hollywood came calling at an ordinary elementary school and the students were cast as extras and paid $1 a day for their work. Hear how “A Christmas Story” changed their lives and what they’re doing now.

·         “A Christmas Story” Production Panel – a panel session featuring Jim Moralevitz, who delivered the leg lamp crate to The Old Man, looked after Peter Billingsley (Ralphie) on set and still lives a few doors down from A Christmas Story House; Julie Matthews, who cast all the supporting roles; Carl Zitter and Paul Zaza, who composed the score and music; and Dwayne McLean (Black Bart), who coordinated all the stunts.

·         The speakers series is organized and moderated by Tyler Schwartz and Jordie Smits, the experts (and mega fans) on all the Canadian location shoots for “A Christmas Story.”
Location: Grand Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel.
Cost: Ralphie Pass holders only; no separate admissions will be sold. 

10 AM – 11:30 AM: Second Screening of “Shooting Your Eye Out: The Untold ‘Christmas Story.’” Directed by Bill Szarka,  “The Untold ‘Christmas Story’” is a documentary about the making of “A Christmas Story” and the phenomenon it has become. The documentary includes commentary and insights from the actors about their memories from the making of the movie.
Location: Gold Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. 
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $7 Adults, $5 Children.

11:30 PM – 12:30 PM: “A Christmas Story – The Musical” preview. “A Christmas Story” is being made into a Broadway musical. Be the first to find out the production details, cast introductions and hear a reading from the script by producer Gerald Goehring and several members of the creative team.
Location: Grand Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel.
Cost: Ralphie Pass holders only; no separate admissions will be sold.

12 PM – 5 PM: Meet actors from “A Christmas Story” and get their autographs. Meet Black Bart, Randy, Flick, Scut Farkus, Grover Dill, Miss Shields and the two Evil Elves.
Location: Ambassador Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. 
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $10 Adults, $5 Children. Autograph fees apply.

1 PM – 2:30 PM: Speakers Series – Session #2. Find out what REALLY happened behind the scenes of “A Christmas Story.” Hear from guest speakers who share their special stories about the making of the movie. To join the sessions, you must have a Ralphie Pass that gets you into all of the weekend’s events. Ralphie Passes can be purchased online.

·         “A Christmas Story” Class Reunion – a panel discussion with several of Ralphie’s grown-up classmates. Find out what happened when Hollywood came calling at an ordinary elementary school and the students were cast as extras and paid $1 a day for their work. Hear how “A Christmas Story” changed their lives and what they’re doing now.

·         “A Christmas Story” Production Panel – a panel session featuring Jim Moralevitz, who delivered the leg lamp crate to The Old Man, looked after Peter Billingsley (Ralphie) on set and still lives a few doors down from A Christmas Story House; Julie Matthews, who cast all the supporting roles; Carl Zitter and Paul Zaza, who composed the score and music; and Dwayne McLean (Black Bart), who coordinated all the stunts.

·         The speakers series is organized and moderated by Tyler Schwartz and Jordie Smits, the experts (and mega fans) on all the Canadian location shoots for “A Christmas Story.”
Location: Grand Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel.
Cost: Ralphie Pass holders only; no separate admissions will be sold. 

2:30 PM – 4 PM: Premiere of “Road Trip for Ralphie” A Documentary produced by two mega-fans of A Christmas Story that set out to find all of the film’s shooting locations.  During an adventure spanning two years and two countries, they uncover forgotten facts, discover little-known shooting locations and recover long-lost memorabilia including the costumes unveiled convention weekend.
Location: Grand Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel.
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $7 Adults, $5 Children.

4 PM: Character look-alike contest. Dress up as your favorite “A Christmas Story” character. The contest is moderated by Canadian mega fans Tyler Schwartz and Jordie Smits. The winner of the contest will get to be a part of the Winterfest Parade and ride with the actors in the fire truck from the movie. Other prizes will also be given out. 
Location: Grand Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. 
Cost: Free.

4:30 AM – 6PM: Final Screening of “Shooting Your Eye Out: The Untold ‘Christmas Story.’”Directed by Bill Szarka,  “The Untold ‘Christmas Story’” is a documentary about the making of “A Christmas Story” and the phenomenon it has become. The documentary includes commentary and insights from the actors about their memories from the making of the movie.
Location: Gold Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel.  
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $7 Adults, $5 Children.

5 PM: Last trip of the “Ralphie Express.” The last Lolly the Trolley trip departs A Christmas Story House for the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. The BB gun range in the back yard of A Christmas Story House also closes.
Location: A Christmas Story House.
Cost: Included with Ralphie Pass; Separately $7 Adults, $4 Children for round-trip transportation.

6 PM – 7:30 PM: Screening of “A Christmas Story.” Enjoy the movie on the big screen. 
Location: Gold Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. 
Cost: Free.

6 PM: Winterfest! Get into the holiday spirit with the tree lighting ceremony, parade and fireworks show. The Winterfest parade will feature the actors riding in the fire truck from the movie. The parade and other events take place on Public Square in front of the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. Enjoy the parade while standing in front of the Higbee’s Building (also on Public Square) just like the Parker family did in “A Christmas Story.” 
Location: Public Square. 
Cost: Free.

7 PM: A Christmas Story House & Museum closes for the day.

8 PM – 11 PM: Premiere of “ClarkWORLD” documentary by ClarkWorld Films about the life and works of “A Christmas Story” director Bob Clark. Proceeds from ticket sales will go to the local Cleveland chapter of MADD. The movie features many of the people that worked closely with Bob Clark over the years, including Kim Cattrall, Denise Richards, Jon Voight, Scott Baio, Peter Billingsley, Dom DeLuise, and many others! Also on public display for the first time will be the two Genie Awards (the Canadian equivalent of the Oscars) won by “A Christmas Story.”
Location: Grand Ballroom at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. 
Cost: $5 Adults, $3 Children and please bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program. Priority upfront seating will be given to all Ralphie Pass holders, but they must still pay admission. VIP tables also are available. All proceeds go to support the local Cleveland chapter of MADD.   

SUNDAY, NOV. 30, 2008

12 NOON – 5 PM: A Christmas Story House & Museum opens. Tour the house, visit the museum and stop by the gift shop. Also, take your best shot (without shooting your eye out) at the BB gun range in the house’s back yard (weather permitting).
Location: A Christmas Story House. 
Cost: $7.50 Adults, $5.50 Children.

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Overview

The house used in the popular holiday classic “A Christmas Story” has been restored to its original movie appearance. Purchased and renovated by Brian Jones, a true fan of the movie who sells leg lamps for a living, the house takes visitors on a nostalgic journey to the sights and scenes where Ralphie Parker dreams of receiving an official Red Ryder carbine-action, 200-shot range model air rifle BB gun for Christmas.

In addition to A Christmas Story House, visitors can explore the museum and gift shop, where original costumes, props and other items from the movie are on display, more than 100 behind-the-scenes photos are featured and movie-related memorabilia can be purchased.

Location

A Christmas Story House & Museum is located in Cleveland, just five minutes from downtown in the Tremont neighborhood. Just look for the leg lamp in the front living room window (it’s a major award).

A Christmas Story House & Museum
3159 W. 11^th St.
Cleveland, OH44109
Phone: 216-298-4919
Web site: www.AChristmasStoryHouse.com
E-mail: info@AChristmasStoryHouse.com

Directions

From downtown Cleveland: Take Interstate 90 West. Exit at W. 14^th Street. Turn left onto Clark Avenue. Turn right onto W. 11^th Street.

From Interstate 71 or State Route 176/Jennings Freeway: Head north. Exit at W. 14^th Street. Follow the signs for W. 14^th Street North around the traffic circle. Turn right onto Rowley Avenue. Rowley Avenue ends at W. 11^th Street at A Christmas Story House.

House and Museum Hours

A Christmas Story House & Museum is open year-round. Hours of operation are:

Thursday – Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. & Sunday: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

* From Nov. 26 – Dec. 31, open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

* Closed Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day and all other major holidays          

Tour Directions

Admission tickets to A Christmas Story House can be purchased at the gift shop located diagonally across the street from the house. Tours are conducted every half-hour. Advance tickets are not necessary. Group tours and rates are available.

General Admission

Adults: $7.50
Children 7 to 12: $5.50
Children 6 & Under: Free
Senior: $6.50

· Did you know that Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) was the only child to receive the Daisy Red Ryder carbine-action, 200-shot range model air rifle with a compass and sundial for Christmas in 1983? This was because the Red Ryder BB gun with a compass and sundial was created specifically for the film and was not available prior to its release.

Christmas Inspiration

Given its childlike charm and hilarious adventures, it’s no wonder that the film has been treasured by its fans. What may be surprising is how much of an impact the film had after its release.

· In addition to the 1994 sequel, the creators of the sitcom “The Wonder Years” explained that they got their inspiration for their show from “A Christmas Story.”

· “A Christmas Story” is one of the favorite films of “South Park” creator Trey Parker. Parker used the inspiration of notorious bully Scut Farkus to create Scott Tenorman, the bully from “South Park.”

· New fans of the classic are added every year as TBS airs its 24-hour marathon of the film starting at 8 p.m. Eastern on Christmas Eve. In 2006, more than 45.5 million viewers tuned in to watch the film.

 .  In 2007, TBS reported record-setting viewership. The 8 p.m. Christmas Eve airing drew the most viewers in a single showing with 4.4 million viewers.

Where Are They Now?

The stars of “A Christmas Story” have gone in many different directions following their time on Cleveland Street. Here is a look at what some of the stars have been up to.

· Peter Billingsley (Ralphie) has continued to work in Hollywood. He was executive producer of the 2008 hit “Iron Man” that starred Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow and Terrence Howard. He has had roles in recent films including “Elf” with Will Ferrell and the 2006 comedy hit “The Break-Up” with Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston, for which he was also a producer.

· Ian Petrella (Randy) attended puppeteering school and has a passion for puppets and animation, which he hopes to continue professionally.

· Melinda Dillon (Mrs. Parker) has appeared in more than 50 films and television series following her work on “A Christmas Story.” Most recently, she had a role in the 2007 film “Reign Over Me” with Adam Sandler and Don Cheadle.

 . Zack Ward (Scut Farkus) has continued acting and has roles in a variety of upcoming and recently released films. In 2007, he appeared in the summer blockbuster “Transformers” and the hit show “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.”

One-Liners

Do you remember the classic lines from “A Christmas Story?” The lasting effect of the film is most often seen in the hilarious quotes that fans of the film can rattle off to this day.

· “Only I didn’t say ‘Fudge.’ I said THE word, the big one, the queen-mother of dirty words, the “F-dash-dash-dash” word!” – Adult Ralphie narrating the event which led to his “blindness.”

· “Fra-GEE-lay. That must be Italian.” – The Old Man upon receiving his “major award.”

· “Only one thing in the world could’ve dragged me away from the soft glow of electric sex gleaming in the window.” – Adult Ralphie explaining why he finally stepped away from the major award.

· “Now I know that some of you put Flick up to this, but he has refused to say who. But those who did it know their blame, and I’m sure that the guilt you must feel would be far worse than any punishment you might receive. Now, don’t you feel terrible? Don’t you feel remorse for what you have done? Well, that’s all I’m going to say about poor Flick.” – Miss Shields following the triple dog-dare incident.

· Meatloaf, smeatloaf, double-beatloaf. I hate meatloaf.” – Randy discussing his distaste for the menu just before showing his mother how a little piggy eats.

· “He looks like a deranged Easter bunny.” – The Old Man after seeing Ralphie wearing his Christmas gift from Aunt Clara. 

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Media Contact

Emily Vincent, Landau Public Relations

216-912-2848 or evincent@landaupr.com 

The path that has led 32-year-old Brian Jones from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis to “that little house on Cleveland Street” is a result of his love for his favorite movie, “A Christmas Story.” On Nov. 25, 2006, the ongoing relationship between Jones and his favorite film took on a whole new meaning with the opening of A Christmas Story House & Museum.

A Christmas Story House takes visitors on a nostalgic journey to the sights and scenes of the classic Christmas film. In addition to A Christmas Story House, visitors can explore the museum and gift shop where original costumes, props and other items from the movie are on display, more than 100 behind-the-scenes photos are featured and movie-related memorabilia can be purchased.           

A San Diego native, Jones had always dreamed of becoming a naval aviator like his father. After graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy with a degree in aerospace engineering, he went on to flight school. Once he arrived, however, he learned that he did not have the sight requirements to achieve his dream and become a pilot.

Obviously downtrodden by the sobering news, Jones’ parents decided they had just the thing to cheer him up. A couple of weeks after the unfortunate news, Jones received a large wooden crate marked “FRAGILE.” When he opened it, he found the infamous leg lamp from “A Christmas Story” inside. His parents made him a leg lamp (the “major award” from the film) to help deal with the disappointment of not becoming a navy pilot.

The film was a family favorite, and Jones’ parents had such a good recollection of the lamp that they actually recreated one. While it was a difficult and time-consuming task, it also was a humorous project for the Jones’. After sending it to their son, they told him of the significant interest that the lamp received and the fact that many people requested one for themselves.

After he left the Navy to pursue a new career, Jones was forced to make a decision about what he would do next. Struggling with the possibility of having to move to the East Coast for a corporate job, Jones remembered the comment from his parents about how popular the leg lamp had been. Jones set out to figure out a way to turn this interest into a realistic business. On April 9, 2003, RedRiderLegLamps.com – a largely online venture that sells replica leg lamps – was launched.

In the second year of his leg lamp business, Jones’ wife e-mailed him while on deployment in the Middle East. Her captain had alerted her to the fact that the house used in “A Christmas Story” was up for sale on eBay. She thought she would just send a funny e-mail about how he should buy it. For Jones, it wasn’t funny – it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

In a move that any fan could appreciate, Jones told the seller that if he took the house off the market that he would pay $150,000 for it. As quick as a tongue will stick to a metal pole in the winter, the deal was done. Within 24 hours the house was his, and Jones flew to Cleveland for the first time ever to sign the papers.

Since its opening on Thanksgiving weekend 2006, more than 60,000 people have toured A Christmas Story House, making it a top tourist and pop culture destination in Cleveland. Though he makes periodic trips to Cleveland, Jones continues to reside in San Diego.

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As a boy, Steven Siedlecki often visited the Tremont area of Cleveland and can remember driving past the famous house that was used in “A Christmas Story.” A native of Brunswick, Ohio, Siedlecki was always intrigued by the house due to the huge popularity of the film. When he heard that California-native Brian Jones had purchased the house and was interested in turning it into a museum, Siedlecki knew he had to be a part of the project.

One day after an article appeared in The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer about Jones and his plans to renovate the home in March 2005, Siedlecki sent a letter to the fellow fan explaining his interest in the project. After only a few phone conversations, Jones hired Siedlecki to run the East Coast operations for his Red Rider Leg Lamp company and named him director and curator of A Christmas Story House & Museum.

A Christmas Story House takes visitors on a nostalgic journey to the sights and scenes of the classic Christmas film. In addition to A Christmas Story House, visitors can explore the museum and gift shop where items from the movie are on display, more than 100 behind-the-scenes photos are featured and movie-related memorabilia can be purchased.

For the opening of A Christmas Story House on Thanksgiving weekend of 2006, Siedlecki oversaw the complete renovation of the house. The extensive renovations required a strong eye for detail, a strong familiarity of the movie and a good knowledge of the area, something Siedlecki had gained in his previous experience. He oversees the operation of the house, museum and gift shop and manages a staff of 10 year-round employees plus seasonal help during the busy holiday season.

Prior to joining Jones and A Christmas Story House, Siedlecki worked at the Western Reserve Historical Society, where he specialized in research for the Education Department and moved into conducting tours for the Interpretation Department.

Siedlecki graduated from Baldwin-Wallace College in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in history and a minor in business administration. He resides in Cleveland.

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