STAR-SPANGLED 200
SCREENS NEW PBS FILM IN SEPTEMBER

Preview Event in Baltimore Supports
Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial

BALTIMORE (August 30) - The War of 1812 - a new PBS documentary that airs nationwide, October 10 - will be shown at Landmark Theatres' Harbor East Cinema in Baltimore, Monday September 26 at 7 p.m. The screening of the film (a highlighted version) benefits Star-Spangled 200, Inc., the nonprofit fundraising affiliate of the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission. Proceeds will support grants, programs and events tied to the upcoming bicentennial observance.

A Q&A session with filmmaker Lawrence Hott of Florentine Films/Hott Productions follows the film. Tickets are available on line and at the box office for $15 ($20 at the door). AT&T is sponsoring the event.

"I am delighted that we have the opportunity to share this preview with the Maryland community," said Ann Beegle, Executive Director of Star-Spangled 200, Inc. "Viewers will have the chance to see a remarkable production on the big screen in an intimate setting."

In addition to the PBS documentary, the evening includes previews from other 1812-related films: Anthem, a made-in-Maryland production (Make Your Mark Media) that traces the origins of the National Anthem; and other pieces produced by Maryland Public Television for the bicentennial period.

For more information about "The War of 1812," including details on how to purchase the DVD and companion book, visit www.pbs.org/war-of-1812. An electronic press kit, including downloadable photos for promotional use, is available at pressroom.pbs.org.

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About "The War of 1812"

"The War of 1812" is a production of WNED-TV, Buffalo/Toronto and Florentine Films/Hott Productions, Inc., in association with WETA Washington, D.C. Due to time limitations; this film has been edited from its original version. "The War of 1812" has been made possible by a major grant from The National Endowment for the Humanities: Because democracy demands wisdom*. With funding provided by The Wilson Foundation, Warren and Barbara Goldring, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting: a private corporation funded by the American people, The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations: Dedicated to strengthening America's future through education, Phil Lind and The Annenberg Foundation.~ With additional support from The Baird Foundation, the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission and Jackman Foundation.*Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

About Star-Spangled 200, Inc.

Star-Spangled 200, Inc. is the not-for-profit 501(c)3 entity that supports the fundraising goals of the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission. Established in September 2010, Star-Spangled 200, Inc. is charged with educating the public through celebration and commemoration of the historical events of the War of 1812 by supporting the charitable and educational activities of the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission. For more information and to support the fundraising efforts, visit www.starspangled200.com.

About the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission

The Commission was established by Governor Martin O'Malley under Executive Order and is staffed by the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development, Division of Tourism Film and the Arts. The bicentennial period is June 2012 through February 2015. The Commission is planning a multi-year cultural tourism and educational initiative to commemorate Maryland's unique contributions to the defense and heritage of the nation including the pivotal clash that ensured American victory, an iconic flag, and our national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner. For more information, visit www.starspangled200.org.