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Friends of the Mihmiverse,
you are cordially invited to attend the
Open House of Ghosts
Whether you've been on screen, behind the scenes, or in the audience, please join us on-site for an open house party on Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, from 5–9 p.m. at the historic South Minneapolis Victorian home where Christopher R. Mihm's latest major motion picture, "House of Ghosts," was filmed.
What's in it for you?
- Meet and greet the director himself, as well as cast members from this and many of his earlier movies at this unprecedented Mihmiverse mini-reunion.
- Shop for Mihmorabilia—and get it all autographed.
- Pre-order your "House of Ghosts" DVDs and/or reserve your collectible tickets for its May 23, 2012, premiere event at the Heights Theatre.
- Bring along friends or family members who'd like to check out the perks of becoming an associate producer.
- Hors d'oeuvres, soft drinks and desserts will be served.
THIS EVENT IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
Please RSVP to rsvp@sainteuphoria.com by Dec. 20 to get the address and directions to the house. For more information, contact Christopher R. Mihm at info@sainteuphoria.com or Sid Korpi at sid@tworightfeetdance.com.
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With the only newsworthy item being that writer/director Christopher R. Mihm's next film, "House of Ghosts," remains on pace to wrap up principal photography by the end of this month, we're going to use this space in the newsletter to continue a tradition we started last year: the annual Mihmiverse Holiday Gift Guide! With the holidays upon us, this handy guide highlights all of the unique stuff out there related to either the films of the Mihmiverse or made by the great folks associated with the films' creation! Enjoy!
Give the most unique gift of all: make your loved one an associate producer of writer/director Christopher R. Mihm's next film, "House of Ghosts!"
For each small "equal exchange" monetary investment of just $50.00 (+$5.00 to cover merchandise shipping & handling costs), all associate producers will have their names listed in the closing credits of the film, and receive five (5) copies of the finished film on DVD, as well as a pair of collector's tickets to the premiere and a customized, frame-able document certifying their participation in the program!
Is there anything more unique or thrilling than giving the gift of your loved one's name on the big screen!? Order before December 20th and receive a special, perfect-for-framing-and-wrapping, hand-signed letter from writer/director Christopher R. Mihm himself!
Visit the merchandise page at SaintEuphoria.com, the online home of the films of Christopher R. Mihm, for more information and ordering instructions! |
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Two Right Feet Dance Lesson Gift Certificates!
Forget Fred & Ginger – We'll have you dancing like Fred & Wilma in no time! Owned and operated by Sid Korpi (Administrator Ripley/Eh'donish Woman) and her husband Anthony Kaczor (Dr. Phillips/Eh'Donish Man), Two Right Feet Dance provides affordable private social dance lessons to absolute beginners in the Twin Cities area. Learn the basics of East Coast swing, rumba, waltz, foxtrot, cha cha and more. Get ready for that first wedding dance or learn to dance for a lifetime of fun.
Gift Certificates available: $50 for one 90-minute private lesson or $135 for a package of three lessons.
Order by visiting tworightfeetdance.com or by calling 612-824-1800.
Other related products are also available at cafepress.com/TwoRightFeetDance! |
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Give the gift of the Mihmiverse this holiday season!
From DVDs to exclusive posters, patches, T-shirts and collectibles, the shop at SaintEuphoria.com, the online home of the films of Christopher R. Mihm, has a little bit of something for every current and soon-to-be-obsessed Mihmiverse fan!
And remember,
autographs are
ALWAYS FREE! |
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Mr. Zero'sNow celebrating their third Xmas $elling season!
Owned and operated by "Destination: Outer Space" and "Attack of the Moon Zombies" associate producer and actor, music/movie columnist for "BUZZ" Newspaper and lostmystub.com, Rik Schwinden (aka Mr. Zero)...along with his crew, TC-Valleri, Aaron Mc. Junior & Zac...has a store that embodies Einstein's* little-known "Theory of Retail Relativity," which states that "stuff should never be destroyed, merely re-purposed."
Mr. Zero's trades, buys and sells quality CDs, vinyl, cassettes, DVDs, VHS, Laserdiscs, T-Shirts, non-sports cards, comics, and hand-made jewelry. Check out Mr. Zero's website at mrzeros.com and dig all their outrageous YouTube videos. You can also follow them on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter & Yelp.com. You won't believe your eyes!
Need a turntable for that awesome Monkees or Tommy Bolin LP you just purchased? Mr. Zero's has 'em! Want to expand your classic video game collection? Mr. Zero's has you covered. Outgrown your KISS concert T-shirt? Bring it on down to Mr. Zero's and trade it in for some to-die-for DC or Marvel action figures!
Mr. Zero's is a pop culture heaven and the perfect place to shop for that lovable, goony Uncle who is 41 and still lives in his Grandmother's basement. Act now and save big. Mention you saw this verbose ad in the Mihmiverse Monthly, OR that you've heard of writer/director Christopher R. Mihm and/or his films, and get 33% off when you spend $33 or more!
Mr. Zero's is located at 1744 Lexington Avenue North in Roseville, Minnesota 55113.
*Bakko Einstein, Mr. Schwinden's Musical Director & Printer that is...
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| | Royal Pet Beauty Shop
Groomer to the Canine Stars of the Mihmiverse
3019 Lyndale Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-822-1655 | | |
Ms. Kane and her talented staff of groomers repeatedly beautified the West Highland white terriers who costar in "House of Ghosts." We in the Mihmiverse are forever grateful of her generosity and talents!
Be sure your pooch is gorgeous for the holidays—give Royal Pet a call today!
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Mihmiverse Plushies!
The monsters are coming and they're... cute? At least, these cuddly versions of the monsters of the Mihmiverse are! Designed and handmade in "era-appropriate black-and-white" by artist and associate producer Brenda Fulmer, these soft and lovable plush monsters are the next in a line of exclusive, rare Mihmiverse collectibles.
These unique collectibles are available individually for $15 (+$4.95 s/h) each or as a set of four for $40 (+$14.50 s/h) — a savings of over $25! Since these are made on demand, order SOON to make sure you receive your order in time for the holidays!
Visit the shop at SaintEuphoria.com, the online home of the films of Christopher R. Mihm, to order yours today! |
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The multiple-award-winning "Good Grief: Finding Peace After Pet Loss"
by animal chaplain, Sid Korpi (Administrator Ripley/Eh'donish woman), melds the author's personal
perspectives and astounding stories with those of professionals (such
as veterinarians, animal communicators, and religious leaders) and
other animal lovers the world over to help you make your pet-grieving
process as positive as possible.
Reading this book will teach you:
• How to emotionally prepare for a pet's euthanasia –
understanding when it's time;
• How to take care of yourself while around people who just
don't understand your pain;
• How to view death not as an ending, but (as animals see it) a
natural transformation;
• How to memorialize and celebrate your pet's life; and
• How to move on after your loss and love again.
$21.95 ($2.00 will be donated to a no-kill animal rescue organization
and copies will be inscribed to their specifications when ordered
through goodgriefpetloss.com) |
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The newest episode of the Mihmiverse Bonfire Podcast is now available for download!
It's a brisk evening in Minnesota and Rhuby 'n' Hater are toughing it out by the backyard bonfire (tended by twins Tori and Tara Fox) for the seventh installment of the Mihmiverse Bonfire Podcast. In this episode, writer/director Christopher R. Mihm talks about his next film, "House of Ghosts," and continues to push the word "lambent" on the audience. Also, the crew interviews Catherine Hanson! Catherine is currently appearing as Mary in "House of Ghosts" and is most recognizable as space pirate Yureena Null in "Destination: Outer Space."
Also included: "The Difference," the newest poem from writer/director Christopher R. Mihm, a commercial for Saint Marie Baking Kits, and a new "Monster Word of the Day!"
Click here to download part 1 — Click here to download part 2
The Mihmiverse Bonfire Podcast was created as a supplement to this newsletter and will be released on or around the 15th of every month. Moderated by hosts Rhuby 'n' Hater, this free-to-download monthly audiocast features exclusive news; interviews with the folks who make the Mihmiverse possible; shameless self-promotion; and original recurring content!
The scheduled December guest is Stephanie Mihm, wife of writer/director Christopher R. Mihm and character actor extraordinaire who is best known for her portrayal of Rosemary in "Terror from Beneath the Earth." Stephanie is currently playing the part of Ursula in "House of Ghosts."
If you'd like to ask a question of the hosts, writer/director Christopher R. Mihm, or any of the show's upcoming guest(s), click HERE to submit your queries! If we like them, we may even include them in a future podcast! OR, like the Mihmiverse Bonfire Podcast on Facebook and "participate" by posting to the podcast's wall during recording! Mrs. Mihm's podcast will take place on Thursday, December 8th starting at 6:30PM (CDT)!
The Mihmiverse Monthly, the official newsletter of the films of Christopher R. Mihm, is trying out some new columns. Alongside old standards like the Classic Movie of the Month, Associate Producer of the Month and Calendar of Events, you'll find an ever-changing array of guest-written columns.
This month you'll find:- Ask Cryptosis ANYTHING
The official horror host/pitchman of the Mihmiverse will answer your random questions in his trademarked irreverent style.
- From the Mihmiverse Test Kitchens
Best known as Rosemary from "Terror from Beneath the Earth," Stephanie Mihm will share her favorite recipes sure to satisfy any monster-sized appetite!
- Monster Hits!
Mike Cook (Gustav/Dr. Edwards) gives us a historical (and hysterical) perspective on some of the original "popular music" created for the schlocky drive-in films of the 1950s and '60s!
- Swingin' with Sid
In real life, Sid Korpi (Administrator Ripley) runs a small dance studio with her husband Anthony Kaczor (Dr. Phillips) where they teach "social dance basics." In this column, Sid will teach you a few beginning steps!
If you have any questions, comments or suggestions for other columns, OR if you're interested in writing one, please contact us at info@sainteuphoria.com and let us know what you think! In the meantime, enjoy the new-and-improved Mihmiverse Monthly!
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Invasion of the Saucer-Men (1957)
Directed by Edward Cahn
Starring Steven Terrell and Gloria Castillo
It's a dark night and a pair of 35-year-old teenagers (as most were in classic 1950s B-grade cinema) are on their way to lover's lane. They keep their lights off for fear of the crotchety, giant-shotgun-toting farmer who owns the land on which the make-out spot sits. In the distance, an alien spacecraft lands. One of its creepy, bug-eyed inhabitants exits and begins to scout around. As the alien and the headlightless vehicle cross paths, the creature is unceremoniously killed. What follows is a preposterously goofy and altogether fun story involving an opportunistic businessman, horny teenagers, inept army guys, menacing three-foot-tall, needle-fingered aliens, the local police department, and one inebriated bull. Though the production values of this film are in the very-low-budget range, the alien design (and the film's poster) are iconic to the "classic drive-in" era. "Invasion of the Saucer Men" was originally intended to be a serious alien invasion movie but, at some point during production it became an outright comedy. As a result, the film occasionally feels somewhat uneven. Aside from that, the final product is quite funny. If you can somehow find a copy of this film (it'll most likely be a bootleg, as the rights have been tied up for decades), check it out. It's a perfect example of the particular kind of cheesiness that I, as a filmmaker, strive to re-create!
— Christopher R. Mihm |
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Since so many fans and supporters have contributed and become associate producers, we wanted to take time to highlight some of these wonderful people! Thus, every month between now and the release of "House of Ghosts," we will randomly choose and interview one of them.
This month, we interview Tracey Lee Smith!
Introduce yourself to the Mihmiverse!
I left Fargo (the city, not the movie) for the Twin Cities four years ago to chase my dream of becoming an Assertive Librarian (see photo). I'm completing my master of library and information science degree in December, and I have a library tech job in which I am often reasonably assertive. So, all in all, I think I'm a pretty big success here.
When and how did you discover the films of Christopher R. Mihm?
Reading the St. Paul Pioneer Press is a daily requirement in my job. (For the curious, I'm a library tech in a law library that serves a government entity.) Recently, I was shocked and thrilled to see a cover story about a local producer of the THE EXACT genre of movies I love. In fact, I love them so much I have a hard time finding any I haven't already seen. They're not making B-movies from the '50s and '60s anymore; it's pretty finite. I ordered "The Monster of Phantom Lake" with a mix of excitement and fear. What if it sucked, and not in the way I like? But... I LOVED IT. I immediately ordered two more movies and sent in my associate producer contribution.
Which of the six released films is your favorite and why?
So far "The Monster of Phantom Lake" is my favorite, because it's the one I've seen. I plan to watch more as soon as I get 'em.
You recently became an associate producer of "House of Ghosts." Why?
I'm very excited about the word "Ghosts" in "House of Ghosts." I love ghost stories so much I'm willing to pay cash money to see more. Also: my name in the credits. NEAT!
Interested in becoming an associate producer? For a miniscule monetary investment, all associate producers will get their names listed in the end credits of " House of Ghosts," a pair of collector's tickets to the premiere, five copies of the film on DVD, and a frame-able certificate with their name and title—perfect for your own "wall of fame!"
Visit the merchandise page at SaintEuphoria.com, the online home of the films of Christopher R. Mihm, for more information. Who knows? Maybe next month we'll be interviewing YOU!
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This month's multi-part question was submitted by a reader who goes by "Curious in Confusion." NOTE: There's a bit of "sucking up" to Cryptosis that makes the editorial board of this publication wonder if Cryptosis submitted this question himself!
Q: Dear Cryptosis, In the final battle between science fiction and fantasy, who will be the victor? And will the living envy the dead? AND, do sci-fi fans really eat their dead? P.S. You rock Cryptosis. You're the best since Seymour.
A: Dear Curious in Confusion,
You certainly assume a lot as far as who will be involved in the final battle. First off, I don't know that there will be anyone named Victor who will be taking part. That is not to say that all Victors are excluded. The only thing I can say with certainty is that there will be no "Vikings" involved in any final battle, as clearly "Vikings" are a lost cause from the beginning. There is no doubt that bands of "Packers" will be strong contenders and are favored to be Victors of oft reference. Science fiction and fantasy will not enter into the final battle, as the redistribution of wealth, health, and hallucinogens will rule in favor of the Whenbeas of Trillo.
The living will envy the dead, as a manner will be found to tax the dead and remove the burdens of societal theft and provide secure indulgence to all that reaped the varnish of the slippery slope.
P.S. Eating Dead? EEEEEEEEEEEEWWWWWWWWWWWWW.
Thanks for the kind words CIC.
Want to ask Cryptosis, the official horror host/pitchman of the Mihmiverse, a question? Send ANY question about ANYTHING to info@sainteuphoria.com and yours may be the next one answered! |
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Want to be a hit at this year's holiday party? Sick of the same-old, same-old platter of sugar cookies? Then I have the dessert for you! It is easy to prepare, tasty, chocolatey, and—best of all—light!
Frozen Chocolate Delight
Ingredients- 3/4 cup cold fat-free milk
- 1 package (1.4 ounces) sugar-free instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups fat-free vanilla frozen yogurt, softened
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat chunky peanut butter
- 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons fat-free whipped topping, divided
Directions
In a large bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Stir in the frozen yogurt and peanut butter until blended. Fold in 1 cup whipped topping. Transfer to an 8-in. square dish coated with cooking spray. Cover and freeze until firm.
Remove from the freezer 10 minutes before serving. Cut into nine squares. Garnish each with 2 tablespoons whipped topping.
Yield: 9 servings.
1 piece equals 134 calories but, believe me, it doesn't taste that low-calorie! Your friends and family will be begging for the recipe. My family of monsters gives this scrumptious dessert 5 out of 5 "grrrs!"
You can find this recipe (and many more like it) and its corresponding nutrition information on the Taste of Home website!
— Stephanie Mihm
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Back when Hollywood started churning out B-grade horror and sci-fi films for the drive-in movie crowds, savvy producers realized that a key target audience would be teens who, if they weren't really "watching" the film (wink-wink), would at least be able to "hear" it. So attempts were made to create "hip," teen-friendly songs for nearly every film. In theory, the formula was simple: Hit Movie + Hit song = More $.
In 1964, B-movie legend Del Tenney filmed "The Horror of Party Beach," a black and white "surf" movie with a plot that sounds eerily like something by Christopher R. Mihm: A beach town experiences a wave of attacks from water plants and dead human tissue mutated from radioactive waste. They mutate into human form by attaching themselves to skeletons from a nearby shipwreck and immediately proceed to hunt down and kill mostly young women.
To be different (read: cheap), Tenney set his film on the EAST coast, and hired The Del-Aires, a surf band from New Jersey, to sing six songs in the film. The Del-Aires were a fixture at New York's famed Peppermint Lounge (made famous in the song "The Peppermint Twist" by Joey Dee & the Starliters). Be that as it may, surfing in New York's tri-state area just seemed wrong.
Plus, none of the virtually unknown actors in this beach movie were as good as Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello (who were never known for their acting chops in the first place), and the Del-Aires were definitely not going to compete musically with the Beach Boys or Jan and Dean. And it shows.
The "cheese" was thick, and the music was, well, less than chart-worthy. But that's okay, because that's the way we like our monster movies...right?
Check out the Del-Aires singing "The Zombie Stomp" from "The Horror of Party Beach."
— Mike Cook
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Hey Newbies: If you own the DVD of "Attack of the Moon Zombies" and have checked out the hidden Easter Eggs therein, you no doubt have seen evidence that there are several dancin' fools among the cast. Most notably, you may have caught Ripley and the Pajama Zombie cutting a rug in a lunar base hallway.
Our ever-thoughtful director, Christopher R. Mihm, realized that many of you might be in anguish after watching that particular clip, wishing with your whole heart you could re-create the Ripley Rumba yourself. Well, here's your chance to prepare for a stint on "Dancing with the B-Movie Stars." In this and upcoming Mihmiverse Monthly newsletters, I will be including instructions for various dance steps seen in that bit of video, as well as any performed in future Mihm movies.
What the heck do I do with my hands?
A bit about Frame—I'd like to explain the handhold position before we get to the footwork description. The gentleman, or lead, places his right hand upon the lady's left shoulder blade. (We once had a student who led his partner by grabbing hold of her bra strap. Wrong action; right spot.) The lady, or follow, sets her left hand on the gent's right deltoid (shoulder muscle) and rests her arm along his. The gent holds his left hand aloft with his hand fairly flat and a space between the thumb and fingers into which his partner gently bends the fingers of her right hand. No tight clutching is necessary; just rest them together. The couple should bring their forearms together in an upright position perpendicular to the floor and keep them somewhat pressed together.
It is vitally important that you both maintain a strong "frame" (i.e., that your arms remain at least slightly in front of your body at all times and NEVER be limp and noodly). This is especially true for the ladies because when you keep your arms strong and part of one unit that includes your torso, whenever the leader moves your arm, your whole body will naturally follow that direction. You'll also protect your rotator cuff from damage that could happen if you let your arm get yanked over and behind your body. The lady is to maintain contact and keep some pressure on both of her partner's hands, using her right hand and left shoulder. Even if his feet are tripping over themselves, you'll still be able to move as he directs you with his hands/arms/torso.
Ripley's Rumba Ladies' Underarm Turn:
Men's steps—As you are concluding the basic step, or as you've completed the bottom of the box (see last month's Swingin' with Sid column if you need a review), after your right foot has stepped back on Slow (Basic step #4) and you've stepped to the side on the second Quick-Quick (Basic step #5–#6), prepare to raise your left arm to tell your partner to begin a turn. Think "LEFT LIFT" and do this immediately as you step forward on your left foot (#1), as delaying will throw off your timing.
As you turn your partner, stir your hand overhead in front of you. If you extend your arm off in another direction, that's where you'll be sending her. Use your right hand to gently guide her shoulder through the start of the turn, rolling her slowly off your fingers. Continue basic stepping for six steps, turning by quarters to the left on steps #1 and #4 (the two Slow steps as shown below) to meet your partner. Then step back to her on #1 again, and resume the basic step when the lady has completed her turn.
Ladies' steps—When your partner raises your right arm, step out to your right (approximately 90°) with your right foot (#1), then continue turning to the right on the Quick-Quick (#2–#3). You should be facing away from your partner at this point (180°). Continue turning on the last three steps (Slow-Quick-Quick or #4—270°, #5, #6—360°) until you are facing your partner once again. If you're all the way around in just three steps, you're going too fast. Use all six steps. Resume the basic step or follow whatever else your partner leads you to do.
Don't worry, ladies, it's understood that on the dance floor is the ONLY place women will ever willingly ask a man to tell us what to do and we'll do it.
Look for more on the Ripley Rumba and other great social dances in upcoming newsletters. Or, get hands-on learning via private absolute-beginner's lessons in Sid Korpi and Anthony Kaczor's home studio in Minneapolis through their Two Right Feet Dance business, where their motto is "Forget Fred and Ginger—We'll have you dancing like Fred and Wilma in no time!" Check them out at www.tworightfeetdance.com or call 612-824-1800 to schedule your lesson.
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Now through January 15
Mike Cook (Gustav/Dr. Edwards) appears in "A Very Rudyful Christmas" at the Fanny Hill Dinner Theatre.
Fanny Hill Dinner Theatre, 3919 Crescent Avenue, Eau Claire, WI |
Now through December 31
M. Scott Taulman (Sven) plays Edward in "The Little Match Girl's Gift: A Christmas Story" on the Centennial Showboat at Harriet Island in St. Paul.
Visit the Centennial Showboat website for more information. |
December 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, & 10
Josh Craig (Professor Jackson) appears in the Woodbury Community Theater production of the Broadway musical version of "A Christmas Carol." With music and lyrics from Alan Menken, Lynn Ahrens and Mike Ockrent, this spectacular musical extravaganza is a must-see this holiday season, even if for no other reason than to experience Josh's return to the stage after a 10-year absence!
Woodbury Community Theater, 4200 Pioneer Drive, Woodbury, MN |
December 9–30
Deanne McDonald (Elizabeth) will be playing the roles of Carol and Brandy in the Actors Theater of Minnesota production of "Bob's Holiday Office Party." Performances are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:00pm and Sundays at 5:00pm.
Tickets are $24 for general admission and are available at BrownPaperTickets.com or 800-838-3006. For Group tickets and information, call 651-290-2290.
Camp Bar and Cabaret, 490 North Robert Street, St. Paul, MN |
December 13 - 7:30pm
Deanne McDonald (Elizabeth) will be performing with her improv team, The Track Team, at the Brave New Workshop Student Union as part of the Six Ring Circus. There is a $1 suggested donation.
Visit the website for location and event information! |
December 15
Come to the Minnesota Boston Terrier Club holiday party where Sid Korpi (Administrator Ripley) will be performing a pet blessing!
Pet Junction, 157 West County Road E, Shoreview, MN |
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| Keep track of all of Sid Korpi's (Administrator Ripley) signings, interviews, appearances, and other promotional events for her book "Good Grief: Finding Peace After Pet Loss" by visiting the appearances page at her website: www.goodgriefpetloss.com. |
When he's not cozying up with to rest of the cast from "House of Ghosts," Justen Overlander (Sheriff Elliott/Jonathan) is working hard on his new Christian-themed feature film project, "Away."
His current Kickstarter campaign ends at 5:00pm, Friday, December 2nd. If the financial goal is not reached, no money is given to the project. Any donation (from $5.00 on up) is greatly appreciated.
Visit Justen's blog (mn2la.blogspot.com) for a little more background on the project. Please support one of the Mihmiverse mainstays!
Click HERE to visit the "Away" Kickstarter page! |
| Mike Cook (Gustav/Dr. Edwards) plays "The Landlord" in the new Sci-Fi/Fantasy web series "Forsythia." Watch the story develop at www.forsythia.tv. |
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"The Monster of Phantom Lake," "It Came From Another World!," "Cave Women on Mars," "Terror from Beneath the Earth," "Destination: Outer Space," and "Attack of the Moon Zombies" DVDs are now available at SaintEuphoria.com, the online home of the films of Christopher R. Mihm.
In addition, "The Monster of Phantom Lake" Collector's Edition DVDs, exclusive movie posters, patches, collectibles and other merchandise are now in stock. Everything is available in extremely limited quantities, so get yours today before they run out!
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Copyright © and All Rights Reserved Saint Euphoria LLC 2011
If you no longer wish to receive the "Mihmiverse Monthly," send a blank email
with the subject "unsubscribe newsletter" to info@sainteuphoria.com
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