And finally the most direct way of reaching people is in person. This month we are featuring many different animation events that have taken place from such well-known centers as London and Hollywood to such little towns as Espinho, Portugal and Trivandrum, India. It is here that the beginnings of awakenings and changes happen. The results can be either personal -- perhaps an indy film is produced or a new taste acquired -- and professional as attendees return to their home countries filled with new ideas, experiences and relationships to apply to their business. Espinho started its festival not knowing that it would produce an ASIFA-International president and a winner of one of the most notorious prizes in animation within a little more than twenty years. This one small festival has placed Portugal on the animation map and they deserve high praise for such accomplishments. It is here at events like this that an understanding for other types of animation and points of view develop and widen our scope of what is possible.

Until Next Time,
Heather