The Motion Picture Sound Editors board of directors has voted to create a new category of membership for foley artists. The MPSE is dedicated to improving recognition of its members by educating the entertainment community as to the artistic merit of sound editing and related arts.

"I consider this to be a huge step forward for our organization,” said MPSE president David Bondelevitch. “This decision will allow us to grow not only in size and stature, but in the scope of what we hope to accomplish."

Foley artists are immediately eligible for membership with full privileges. Potential members can download applications at the organization's Website, www.mpse.org. Pending a rules change to be approved by the active membership, foley artists will be eligible to receive trophies in categories where FX/foley editors are currently recognized.

The MPSE recently celebrated its 51st year as an organization. It is dedicated to improving recognition of its members by educating the entertainment community as to the artistic merit of sound editing. It hosts the annual MPSE Golden Reel Awards each year. The 52nd show will be held Feb. 26, 2005 in the Los Angeles Ballroom of the Century Plaza Hotel, in Los Angeles. For more information, please visit www.mpse.org or e-mail mail@mpse.org.