The Palm Springs International Film Awards was a gala event to remember. Heralded by Deadline as “…a must-stop on the way to the [Oscars] in March”, the star-studded evening celebrated the best in cinematic performance and production. Many recipients and hosts- even Steven Spielberg!- had…
Spring is in the air, even if it’s been a bit rainier than our usual California sunshine. If you’re looking for the perfect date night spot to cozy up in, Harold is proud to share that Spencer’s has been named one of the 100 most…
This January, the McCallum Theatre celebrates 35 years. It opened on January 2nd, 1988. Some trivia for you: The very first night ever at the McCallum was a gala for the ages. It was a tribute to Bob Hope, hosted by Lucille Ball. If you…
The 2023 Film Festival and Awards Gala felt extra special this year. After 2 years on hiatus due to the pandemic, you could feel the excitement as Palm Springs residents and honored celebrities came together again. Harold Matzner picked his top six moments from this…
The Palm Springs International Film Awards has announced that Brendan Fraseris the recipient of the Spotlight Award, Actorfor hisperformance in The Whale. The Film Awards will take place in-person on January 5, 2023at the Palm Springs Convention Center, with the festival running through January 16,…
ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT’s Kevin Frazier and Nischelle Turner will co-host the2023 Palm Springs International Film Awards, which will be previewed on this evening’s broadcast of the venerable newsmagazine program.The award show returns in-person on January 5, 2023 at the Palm Springs Convention Center, with Media Partner…
The Palm Springs International Film Awards has announced that Danielle Deadwyler is the recipient of the Breakthrough Performance Award, Actress for her performance in Till.The Film Awards will take place in-person on January 5, 2023at the Palm Springs Convention Center, with the festival running through…
The Palm Springs InternationalFilm Awards has announced that Bill Nighy is the recipient of the International Star Award, Actor for Living. The Film Awards will take place in-person on January 5, 2023at the Palm Springs Convention Center, with the festival running through January 16, 2023.The…
The Palm Springs International Film Awards has announced that Viola Davis is the recipient of the Chairman’s Award recognizing her work as an actress and producer for The Woman King. The Film Awards will take place in-person on January 5, 2023 at the Palm Springs…
The 34th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) announced that the festival’s opening night will be the World Premiere of 80 For Brady directed by Kyle Marvin, on Friday, January 6. The festival will close with The Lost King, directed by Stephen Frears on Sunday, January 15. The festival will…
The Palm Springs International Film Awards has announced that Austin Butler is the recipient of the Breakthrough Performance Award for his performance in Elvis.The Film Awards will take place in-person on January 5, 2023at the Palm Springs Convention Center, with the festival running through January…
The Palm Springs International Film Awards has announced that The Fabelmans is the recipient of the Vanguard Award.The Vanguard Award is a group honor distinguishing a film’s cast and director in recognition of their collective work on an exceptional film project. The award will be…
The Palm Springs International Film Awards has announced that Michelle Yeoh is the recipient of the International Star Award, Actress for Everything Everywhere All at Once. The Film Awards will take place in-person on January 5, 2023at the Palm Springs Convention Center, with the festival…
The Palm Springs International Film Awards has announced that Sarah Polley is the recipient of the Director of the YearAward, for Women Talking. The Film Awards will take place in-person on January 5, 2023at the Palm Springs Convention Center, with the festival running through January 16, 2023. The event will be presented by American Express and sponsored by Entertainment Tonight and IHG Hotels & Resorts.
On October 21st, The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert (The Center) welcomed over 500 guests at their annual fundraiser, Center Stage 2022. Rob Wheeler, executive director and CEO of The Center addressed the crowd of 525, saying, “we are truly stronger together, and our…
COLIN FARRELL WITH THE DESERT PALM ACHIEVEMENT AWARD, ACTOR The Palm Springs International Film Awards has announced that Colin Farrell is the recipient of the Desert Palm Achievement Award, Actor for his performance in The Banshees of Inisherin. The Film Awards will take place in-person…
This Veteran’s Day, Harold wants to honor all those who have served to protect our great country. Our brave veterans are one of the many causes close to Harold’s heart. On Veteran’s Day in 2017, the Matzner Tank Pavilion opened at the General Patton Museum,…
Palm Springs Life Magazine published a wonderful article this month: “50 Moments That Shaped Greater Palm Springs.” As the list travels through history, you can see our community start to come together, from its pre-1900 foundations through the Rat Pack era. We see when landmarks…
Harold and the McCallum Board along with Michael Childers invite you to this year’s “One Night Only.” We are celebrating the 16th year in the desert with “New York, New York” on November 9, 2022 at 6 p.m. All proceeds benefit The Barbara Sinatra Children’s…
A toast from Spencer’s and Harold Matzner! 🍸 U.S. News and World Report has named their picks for the top 22 restaurants in Palm Springs for 2022- and of course, Spencer’s made the list! Their editors researched dozens of review sites, including restaurant, dining and…
After two years off due to Covid, the Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards Gala is back and tables, seats, and passes are all on sale now! The 2021 Gala will take place on Thursday, January 5, 2023. Harold Matzner, the Board of Directors, and…
Part 2 of Palm Springs Life Magazine’s profile of Harold Matzner focuses on the Palm Springs International Film Festival. With quotes from colleagues, fellow board members, friends, and family, writer David Lansing illustrates how Harold turned the film festival into the success it is today. …
If you’ve ever wondered about Harold’s childhood, what his home life is like (hint: dog-filled), or how amazingly busy his schedule is, this article Palm Springs Life Magazine will give you a window into being Harold Matzner as told by writer David Lansing, many of…
Online reservations site OpenTable has named 100 U.S. restaurants that take the cake for outdoor dining- and we’re honored that Spencer’s made the list! Everyone in the desert knows that Spencer’s patio is the place to celebrate a special occasion- or just to celebrate a…
Happy Birthday, Harold! (Yes, he really was born on the 4th of July.) As we celebrate 85 wonderful years, it’s time to revisit (and laugh again at) the prank Desert Sun front page made just for your 75th. We truly will never forget your sold-out…
Joaquin Phoenix’s much lauded performance as the Joker has earned him the Chairman’s Award at the Palm Springs Film Festival Awards. Festival Chairman says Phoenix’s performance: “… elicits empathy and reminds society on the whole that we can be better…” Read full article here
Joaquin Phoenix, of “Walk The Line” fame (where he portrayed the legendary Johnny Cash) will be awarded with the Chairman’s Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Says Chairman Harold Matzner of the performance: “Joaquin Phoenix mesmerizes audiences in ‘Joker’ with a performance that…
Accomplished actress Renée Zellweger is receiving praise for her role as Judy Garland as the Palm Springs International Film Festival will award her with the Desert Palm Achievement Award. Chairman of the Palm Springs Film Fest, Harold Matzner, said of her performance, “This is a…
Coachella Valley mourned the loss of Ronald Auen, one of the area’s biggest philanthropists. Harold Matzner, fellow philanthropist and Chairman of The Palm Springs International Film Fest and McCallum Theatre acknowledged his passing, saying it was “an enormous loss to the valley and to all…
Reception honors outstanding philanthropic individuals, businesses, and organizations making a difference in the Coachella Valley. A private event was held to honor the nominees for the 13th Annual National Philanthropy Day In The Desert, where one of Palm Springs’ biggest benefactors and Spencer’s owner, Harold…
The Riviera Palm Springs played host to the Palm Springs Equality Awards, which acknowledged support from the area’s biggest philanthropists and LGBTQ allies. Harold Matzner was awarded the 2019 Lifetime Ally Award by former Senator Barbara Boxer was in front of the 600 attendees… Read…
This year’s nominees for the 13th annual National Philanthropy Day in the Desert were honored on a gorgeous day in a private reception in Palm Springs. Sponsored and underwritten by Mark Anton and Scott Histed, the extravagant event featured cocktails, a live band, and around 100 guests in…
The Tamarisk Country Club played host to around 250 of the McCallum Theatre’s closest admirers and innermost family (its founders and benefactors) as the next season of performances were revealed. Among the projects making their debuts next season were “A Christmas Story,” “The Play That…
“Party In the Outback” was the theme for The Living Desert’s 26th Annual Zoobilee Gala this year, which previewed the new Australian habitat display opening late fall 2019. Attendees were allowed to meet “zoo residents,” silent and live auctions were held, and the libations served…
The Palm Springs Air Museum was host to the black-tie “Casablanca to D-Day Rendezvous With History” event, where both vets and active service members were honored while the Palm Springs High School Spirit of The Sands Band played all the patriotic hits, cocktails and appetizers…
The McCallum Theatre Muses & Patroness Circle’s fundraising event Casino Royale–A Supreme Happening came complete with Blackjack, Texas Hold ‘Em, roulette, and a vintage James Bond vibe. Martinis were shaken (not stirred), a decadent dinner was served on lavish table settings, and prizes like an…
The Palm Springs Convention Center was the setting for a much-talked about 80th birthday bash thrown for The Palm Springs Art Museum. Decked out in (mostly) white, guests were treated to an extravagant cocktail hour, dinner, and the giving of a 1957 Henry Moore bronze…
Unlike other film festivals (like the LA Film Fest), the Palm Springs Film Festival has been able to withstand the test of time. With a solid business model lead by its Chairman Harold Matzner, the Palm Springs Film Fest has been able to maintain its…
Well In The Desert hosted a day of activities based around remembering loved ones and honoring their grave sites at Desert Memorial Park. Face painting, arts & crafts, fun carnival games, and an art contest featuring student art from the Palm Springs Unified High Schools…
“Even miracles take a little time” was the theme for Senior Recognition, which included a formal brunch, an awards presentation, and a fashion show. Senior Recognition recognizes mother and daughter volunteers who are part of the National Charity League, Inc. Palm Springs Chapter. The event…
One of Coachella Valley’s long-running and most popular events, The AAP – Food Samaritans 25th Annual Gala, Evening Under the Stars, took place at the Palm Springs O’Donnell Golf Club, complete with a sunset cocktail hour, marketplace and silent auction. The AAP – Food Samaritans has…
The Bougainvillea Room at Spencer’s Restaurant was filled with 140 Well in the Desert supporters honoring Visionary Award winners for their work with the homeless. The Well in the Desert organization has not only improved the quality of life in Palm Springs, but has fed, showered,…
The Palm Springs Art Museum hosted almost 300 attendees at the 50th Palm Springs Opera Guild of the Desert Jubilee Gala, where a concert at the Annenberg Theatre was held, a lavish dinner sponsored by Spencer’s was served, and a City of Palm Springs proclamation…
The new clubhouse at Bighorn Country Club hosted The Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert for their silver anniversary. At the event were politicians like Kate Spates, Rancho Mirage council members and Palm Desert mayor Sabby Jonathan. Underwriters for the event included Carl Karcher, Harold…
Desert Arc’s inaugural Recognition Awards Luncheon at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort brought out almost 300 guests. Desert Arc’s programs are designed to help people with developmental disabilities in the area to find jobs, find homes, have a safe place in which to safely interact…
Rancho Mirage city council candidates Dana Hobart and Kate Spates have both raised $30,959 and $29,444, respectively, for their campaigns. Hobart’s largest contributor was philanthropist and businessman Harold Matzner, who donated $10,000 to the campaign. Matzner has supported both Democratic and Republican candidates over the…
The on-campus event held at the College Of the Desert was, in a word, beautiful–down to the weather, backdrop, and food served. Among the announcements were a guaranteed, full-tuition, two-year scholarship program for the class of 2018 freshmen and plans for a new Digital Education…
The “Just Imagine” fundraising gala aimed at bringing Eisenhower Health even closer to achieving their vision of “world class healthcare” was a tremendous success, raising $4 million. The proceeds will go towards purchasing a third robotic DaVinci Surgical System. The evening itself was elegant, to…
An astounding success, the 24th annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards gala raised $6 million, all the while celebrating the biggest names in philanthropy and rolling out a welcoming red carpet complete with fashion show-level glamour. Said producing sponsor Harold Matzner (who donated $50k), “Palm Springs…
The Palm Springs Art Museum’s “Not Your Typical Gala” was a mix of classic artwork, acrobats, and the eccentric stylings of Andy Warhol’s Americana and celebrity-influenced pop art. The crowd was also a mixed one, with the gala hosting everyone from artists, to writers, to…
Desert Arc, a nonprofit grouped aimed at creating opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities, acknowledged the leaders and businesses which have championed their cause. Among the recognized were Eisenhower Health, JFK Memorial Hospital, Palm Springs Disposal, Destination PSP, Renova Solar. Sacred Heart Church, steered by…
The 8th Annual Men of the Desert Fashion Show and Charity Luncheon raised $135,000 via silent auctions for the Animal Samaritans Rescue Program. The luncheon honored their partner SNIP, which offers mobile spaying and neutering for low costs throughout Coachella Valley. Animal Samaritans has been…
One of the most sought-after tickets of the social season, the signature fundraising event of the Desert Cancer Foundation is the only charity event allowed at the Reserve luxury gated community in Indian Wells. The Corks & Cuisine Food and Wine Classic offered amazing wines…
The world-wide standard for equine therapy, Pegasus offers treatments through its riding programs to severely disabled children. In its Riders Award Event, they gave out Olympic style medals and gifted a number of wireless toys and prizes to clients. The whole effort was made possible…
The Richard’s Center for the Performing Arts held a sold-out audience for Steven Spielberg’s latest project, The Post, at the Palm Springs International Film Festival Opening Night Gala. Chairman Harold Matzner welcomed the crowd and introduced the cast of the historical drama starring Meryl Streep…
Sonny Bono’s legacy lives on, as his original idea, the Palm Springs International Film Fest, reaches new heights with Chairman Harold Matzner at the helm. Says Matzner of Bono’s dream: “There’s no question it was his idea,” he said. “He thought it would be good…
Despite a tumultuous year of allegations, the red carpet rolled out to an enthusiastic bunch of Hollywood’s finest. It attracted a sell-out crowd of around 2,400 people, including the likes of Suzanne Somers and Palm Springs Mayor Robert Moon and was expected to raise $2.5…
Though yet to be completed, a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the progress completed on the downtown Palm Springs project took place, complete with giant scissors and refreshments. All this was accompanied by a free concert and grand fireworks display, underwritten by Palm Springs International Film Festival…
JESSSICA CHASTAIN TO RECEIVE CHAIRMAN’S AWARD FOR MOLLY’S GAME AT 29th ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FILM AWARDS GALA Palm Springs, CA (December 5, 2017) – The 29th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) will present Jessica Chastain with the Chairman’s Award for…
Shining in her role as the mother of Tonya Harding, Allison Janey adds to her seven Emmys with the Palm Springs International Film Fest Spotlight Award. Says Harold Matzner of her performance: “The usually charming Janney takes a compellingly dark turn as Tonya’s abusive, alcoholic…
Gary Oldman returns to the Palm Springs International Film Festival to receive the Desert Palm Achievement Award for his performance as Winston Churchill during the turbulent times of World War II. This is the actor’s third trip to the Film Fest. Says Chairman Harold Matzner…
Spencer’s owner, philanthropist, Chairman of the Palm Springs International Film Festival, and Horatio Alger Award-winner Harold Matzner is a man held in high regard by his friends and associates. Now, they retell their experiences with him, touching on his charismatic personality, business acumen, and accomplishments… Click Here…
More than 100 guests were present to celebrate the announcement of the honorees for National Philanthropy Day in the Desert. Harold Matzner was in attendance as Presenting Sponsor and Honorary Chair. Click Here To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun Nov 4, 2017
EQCA (Equality California) presented their new logo and tagline “Until the work is done” at the 2017 Palm Springs Equality Awards, where Congress Representatives joined 600 attendees in recognizing social justice for people from every racial, ethnic, LGBTQ and religious community. Presenting sponsors included Brownstein Hyatt Farber…
A 5’11 baby giraffe was born and christened Shellie, after Shellie Reade, the life partner of philanthropist and Living Desert benefactor Harold Matzner. The birth occurred two days after the death of another giraffe named Pora… Click Here To Read Original Article at The Desert Scene Sep 8,…
Businessman, one of the Valley’s top donors (with nearly $70 million given over the past 17 years), philanthropist, and 2017 Horatio Alger Award recipient Harold Matzner turns 80! His life and accomplishments are were honored in the Desert Sun, as friends, businesses, and the rest of Palm…
“Facing Mecca” took home the Best of Festival prize, which included $5,000 from the Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau. Chairman of the Festival Board, Harold Matzner, stressed the significance of the experience and educational opportunities that filmmakers received as the true prize. Not…
One of the Living Desert’s youngest denizens is Harold, a baby giraffe whose namesake is Palm Spring’s own Harold Matzner, a long-time supporter and recent donator of $50,000. His philanthropy goes towards further conservation efforts of wildlife in Africa, educational trips, and improving infrastructure of the…
The biggest shortfilm festival in its 23rd season had a great opening night, despite the searing desert heat. Chairman Harold Matzner acknowledged Lili Rodriguez, the first-time director of ShortFest, and praised the work of the 31-year old. Upwards of 500 directors are expected to take part in…
Spencer’s owner Harold Matzner invited diners to the Watercress Vietnamese Bistro at no charge, to help bolster their business and get some publicity for the newer, struggling restaurant… Click Here To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun June 4, 2017
Two-time Grammy winner and jazz musician Diane Schuu joined piano prodigy Paul Cracchiolo to bring the house down and earn rousing applause for their amazing performances. Harold Matzner was underwriter and attendee at the Coachella Valley Symphony’s year-end gala “Rhapsody and Blues,” which benefited both the orchestra and the Buddy…
One of Palm Spring’s most festive events, the 24th Annual Evening Under the Stars, featured a delicious dinner catered by Savoury’s, a performance from Martha Reeves and The Vandellas, music by DJ Jerry Bonham, and a spectacular fireworks display. Honored at the event were Timothy Jochen,…
With country music star LeAnn Rimes stepping in to perform with the entire Desert Symphony orchestra and screen and stage star Ruta Lee being honored, it turned out to be a spectacular night at the McCallum Theater. Event sponsors included President Circle Sponsors Harold Matzner, El Paseo Jewelers,…
In the spirit of Desert AIDS Project’s Dining Out for Life program, a few notable Palm Springs residents were asked what their favorite eateries were. At the top of the list: Spencer’s, not only known for their scallops and steaks, but for owner Harold Matzner’s…
Harold Matzner tells us a little about himself, and it becomes clear why the philanthropist is up for induction into the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans. Click Here To Read Original Article at Palm Springs Life, March 30, 2017
Temple Isaiah received a timely donation from philanthropist Harold Matzner that may have just saved it from being sold… To Read Original Article at KESQ.com, Click Here: KESQ.com, March 29, 2017
The Waring International Piano Competition celebrates its anniversary with their one-and-only fundraiser of the year, with Palm Spring’s Harold Matzner as one of the many sponsors involved… To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click Here: The Desert Sun, March 4, 2017
The Steinway Society celebrated its annual “doctors” fundraiser and its 15th anniversary, with support from sponsors like Jordan Varela, Donna MacMillan, Harold Matzner, and more… To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click Here: The Desert Sun, February 25, 2017
Harold Matzner co-chaired the event along with Helene Galen, which officially established the Richards Center as a premier arts education and entertainment venue… To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click Here: The Desert Sun, February 18, 2017
A letter from a Palm Springs resident showing gratitude to the philanthropic efforts of Harold Matzner… To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click Here: The Desert Sun, February 9, 2017
The Palm Springs City Council approved Harold Matzner’s $256,800 donation for a tactical vehicle in an effort to help protect local law enforcement in situations when extreme measures are deemed necessary… To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click Here: The Desert Sun, February 2, 2017
Robert De Niro further cemented his legacy as one of Hollywood’s greatest by showing his acting range in a comedy that elicited laugh after laugh. To make the screening of Comedian even more memorable, De Niro and co-stars entertained the attending crowd with a rousing Q&A…
The star studded yet casual brunch with a “Hollywood meets Palm Springs” vibe highlighted 10 prominent directors on the rise and honored the likes of Pharrell Williams, Vigo Mortensen, Janelle Monáe and Jim Parsons… To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click Here: The Desert Sun,…
The Palm Springs International Film Festival’s recognition of fine films and lavish galas rev up awards season with 21 screens showing 190 films from 72 countries, previewing what the hottest films will be at events like the Golden Globes, the SAG Awards, and the Oscars… To…
Jane Lynch, Ryan Gosling, and Amy Adams, among others, expressed their love for the Palm Springs community at the Variety Awards Lunch… To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click Here: The Desert Sun, January 6, 2017
The 16th anniversary of Christmas Tree Lane brought out Palm Springs Mayor Robert Moon, volunteers, celebs, and local businessmen like Frank Tysen and Harold Matzner to raise money for Palm Spring locals living with MS… To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click Here: The…
MARC GLASSMAN, SPECIAL TO THE DESERT SUN Harold Matzner and community leaders Dennis Washington and Greg Renker were seen exchanging notes at a recent McCallum performance starring Johnny Mathis. To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click Here: The Desert Sun, December 24, 2016
ANDREW GARFIELD TO RECEIVE THE SPOTLIGHT AWARD AT 28th ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FILM AWARDS GALA Palm Springs, CA (December 20, 2016) – The 28th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) will present Andrew Garfield with the Spotlight Award for his role…
“THE POWER OF WORDS: BOOK TO SCREEN” BRINGS AUTHORS BEHIND ACCLAIMED FILMS TO 2017 PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 13 Hours, Arrival, Denial, Genius, The Late Bloomer and Septembers of Shiraz to be Featured Palm Springs, CA (December 20, 2016) – The 28th annual Palm…
MAHERSHALA ALI TO RECEIVE BREAKTHROUGH PERFORMANCE AWARD AT 28th ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FILM AWARDS GALA Palm Springs, CA (December 16, 2016) – The 28th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) will present Mahershala Ali with the Breakthrough Performance Award for his…
ANNETTE BENING TO RECEIVE CAREER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD AT 28th ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FILM AWARDS GALA Palm Springs, CA (December 13, 2016) – The 28th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) will present Annette Bening with the Career Achievement Award at its…
PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES AWARDS BUZZ PROGRAM Palm Springs, CA (December 5, 2016) – The 28th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF), scheduled January 2-16, 2017, announced the films selected to compete for the FIPRESCI Award in the Awards Buzz section. The…
Harold Matzner and fellow high-profile sponsors like Donna MacMillan and Arlene & Jordan Schnitzer were treated by a spectacular act from singer-actress Megan Hilty at the theater’s opening night The event was extravagantly catered by none other than Spencer’s restaurant. To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click…
AMY ADAMS TO RECEIVE CHAIRMAN’S AWARD AT 28th ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FILM AWARDS GALA Palm Springs, CA (December 9, 2016) – The 28th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) will present Amy Adams with the Chairman’s Award for her performance in…
Priced at $20, the calendar features local heroes each paired with a beautiful animal. All proceeds to go to animal care. Visit https://www.psanimalshelter.org/home to purchase a calendar. To Read Original Article at The Desert Sun, Click Here: The Desert Sun, December 10, 2016
Harold Matzner tells the tale of his start from humble beginnings to his current status as a full-time fundraising activist in Coachella Valley, the head of CBA industries, and Chairman of the Palm Springs International Film Society. He attributes his success to his “Horatio Alger work ethic.”…
HIDDEN FIGURES TO RECEIVE ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE AWARD AT 28th ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FILM AWARDS GALA Palm Springs, CA (December 1, 2016) – The 28th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) will present the cast of Hidden Figures with the Ensemble Performance…
Featuring popular acts like Pink Martini and Dame Edna, the annual McCallum gala set a fundraising record with large donations from the likes of Harold Matzner, the Berger Foundation, Helene Galen, Jan Salta & JoAnn McGrath (also the night’s honoree). The event’s success ensures that McCallum maintains its…
NICOLE KIDMAN TO RECEIVE INTERNATIONAL STAR AWARD AT 28th ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FILM AWARDS GALA Palm Springs, CA (November 28, 2016) – The 28th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) will present Academy Award® winning actress Nicole Kidman with the International…
NATALIE PORTMAN TO RECEIVE DESERT PALM ACHIEVEMENT AWARD, ACTRESS AT 28th ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FILM AWARDS GALA Palm Springs, CA (November 30, 2016) – The 28th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) will present Natalie Portman with the Desert Palm Achievement…
Palm Spring’s best gathered to celebrate the tenth annual National Philanthropy Day event in the Desert, aimed at the greater goal of changing the world. Honorees include Harold Matzner, Harry and Diane Rinker, and Sarah G. Clapp. The luncheon is held to inspire and encourage others to participate…
RUTH NEGGA TO RECEIVE THE RISING STAR AWARD AT 28th ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FILM AWARDS GALA Palm Springs, CA (November 16, 2016) – The 28th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) will present Ruth Negga with the Rising Star Award at…
Actor Casey Affleck is set to be honored at the Palm Springs International Film Festival by Chairman Harold Matzner in January. The PSIFF has announced that Affleck will receive this year’s Desert Palm Achievement Award for his performance in Manchester By the Sea. To Read Full…
Tom Hanks will be honored at the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January by Chairman Harold Matzner. The PSIFF has announced that Hanks will receive this year’s Icon Award. To Read Full Article at The Wrap, Click Here: thewrap.com, November 10, 2016
Palm Springs International Film Society recently announced the hiring of Michael Lerman as the non-profit’s new artistic director. Board Chairman Harold Matzner praised the hiring, believing that, despite his youth, Lerman is very accomplished and talented. To Read Full Article at The Desert Sun, Click…
Impressed with his programming work at the Toronto International Film Festival, the Palm Springs Film Society has hired Michael Lerman as their new artistic director. Board Chairman Harold Matzner believes he is an “exemplary match for the PSIFF.” To Read Full Article at Screen Daily, Click…
Noted philanthropist Harold Matzner donated $15,000 to support the Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival, now in its fourth year. He says he loves the diversity the event offers as a way of highlighting the many successful women in the jazz community. To Read Full Article…
by Bruce Fessier Not surprisingly, one of the smartest filmmakers to use ShortFest is a guy named Jason Matzner. Yes, he’s the nephew of the festival chairman, Harold Matzner. But Jason, who is Harold’s younger brother’s son from New Jersey, started as a child actor at 4, appearing in soap operas like “General Hospital” and…
On behalf of my Board of Directors, I want to welcome you to the Palm Springs International Festival of Short Films, also known as ShortFest. This is really quite a fantastic event (and I don’t usually say that about events that don’t make a dime)! …
by BRUCE FESSIER The nation’s biggest little film festival kicks off Tuesday with organizers wondering how it got so big. The 22nd annual Palm Springs International Short Film Festival and Film Market will screen 328 films from 54 countries, which is about the same as…
by Frances Allen “There are no bad dogs, just bad owners.” One need look no farther than the 18th annual “Pets On Parade Awards” luncheon at Indian Wells’ Renaissance Esmeralda on July 9 where pets of all breeds and species co-exist with each other and…
One of the desert’s most colorful celebrities, Michael Childers, has done it again. Last week’s “One Night Only” all-star performance posted its “sold out” sign for the 10th straight year. It was held at the spacious 1127-seat McCallum Theater, enabling it to raise support for Jewish Family Service…
ACT for MS, a local non-profit that provides therapy sessions, mobility assistance and other special support programs for free to those suffering with Multiple Sclerosis, recently held its annual March benefit gala honoring philanthropist Harold Matzner and remembering its founder Gloria Greer. The event raised an…
If you have not toured Cabot’s Pueblo Museum in Desert Hot Springs, you have not seen all of the desert’s truly unique attractions. It is like a huge, historic time machine, transporting visitors back, back in time to the old west – ancient artifacts, dirt paths, and all….
The 28th Annual On-Stage Birthday Luncheon benefiting the Muses & Patroness Circle of the McCallum Theatre demonstrated why theater is such an amazing and exciting art form, and why ladies should join this prestigious group. Original founding member Marjorie Victor was seen in the lobby…
Brazilian models, dancers, and a fire-eater greeted the 200 attendees to the Muses and Patroness Circle fundraiser inside the Pavilion at Toscana Country Club. From the pale green signature rum drink “Brazilian Beach Bums” to the tall centerpieces topped with colorful feathers, beads, and masks,…
In addition, the Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a free Taste of Palm Springs, with local restaurants providing tasty small bites to the public. “Over the past year, the Buzz trolley has experienced incredible success,” said Mary Jo Ginther, director of tourism at…
By Betty Francis, Sunday, January 24, 2016 When Jan Salta and Suzy Leprino agreed to co-chair Eisenhower Medical Center’s 45th Anniversary Gala, they both immediately agreed on one stipulation: “It had to be a simple, elegant evening to remember.” Dubbed “Dancing Through the Decades,” their vision…
By Betty Francis This year’s closing film, “Last Cab To Darwin” (Australia) and the after party at the Palm Springs Renaissance were impressive but drew a crowd slightly smaller than last year’s final events. My observation was that this was caused by a perfect storm…
By Betty Francis Great works of art always have a colorful history and the one now on permanent display at Eisenhower Medical Center is no exception. The art itself is one of the most unique pieces in the world. It is a small, white weathered…
By Vicki Blythin “Holiday in Palm Springs,” an event held and sponsored by the Hyatt Palm Springs, featured the global singing sensations, “Little Stars,” an all – girl choir from Zagreb, Croatia. They are touring the country with their creator, Conductor/Maestro Zdravko Sljivac . The…
By Betty Francis For more than a decade of Januaries, I’ve been saying to friends and family, “Don’t try to reach me next week, I’ll be on Planet Film Fest.” This year, the PSIFF orbit exploded from a planet into an international universe, as it…
Marge Dodge He writes the songs that make the whole world sing, and for five nights Barry Manilow sang his hit songs and holiday favorites in the Gift of Love III concert, benefiting 30 Coachella Valley non-profit organizations. Manilow exploded onto the holiday themed stage…
by Dodie Cross Things were certainly going to the dogs during this event, in fact they seemed to be ubiquitous. Over one hundred supporters and 12 guide dogs attended the Paws For Independence Dinner at the palatial Spencer’s at the Mountain Restaurant in Palm Springs….
Betty Francis In a community with over 800 charities and non-profits, there is a great deal of turnover. They come and go, with some becoming icons while others disappear. So, when the desert’s first National Philanthropy Day event was announced nine years ago, it didn’t…
by Kathleen Bennett One of those perfect desert days with awesome weather and spectacular mountain views welcomed the fifth annual Clubs Fore Kids Charity Golf Tournament at Escena Golf Club in mid September. This event, which benefits the Boys & Girls Club Palm Springs, was…
Welcome to our showcase of the filmmakers of the future. You’re about to embark on a dazzling journey of discovery within the walls of the stylish, state-of-the-art Camelot Theatre. Over the next seven days, you’ll have the opportunity to view more than 300 remarkable films…
By DeAnn Lubell-Ames The AIDS Assistance Program’s 22nd annual Evening Under the Stars — voted as one of the best fundraising events in the Coachella Valley — certainly fulfilled the expectations of the 1,200 guests and volunteers who gathered on the greens at O’Donnell Golf…
By Betty Francis The name of this annual event could be “One Night Only — Sold Out” because that’s what the signs say every year, and last week was no exception. Creator, producer, and genius-in-charge Michael Childers brings about two dozen of his Hollywood and…
By Chris Foster The Mizell Senior Center’s 10th annual “Stars Among Us” gala was held at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. from the legendary 5th Dimension entertained but the real stars of the evening were in the audience, raising…
By Betty Francis Another charity honored philanthropist Harold Matzner this month which may not make them unique, but let me tell you about this charity. It’s Tools For Tomorrow, founded 15 years ago by artist, educator and author Rachel Druten, who now teaches all those…
By Betty Francis This may be the most important report I will ever write for you. Please read it. After 19 years of society reporting (just when I thought I knew virtually every charity in the Valley) I discovered a new one last week that…
By DeAnn Lubell-Ames It was a stellar day for the elite crowd of Hollywood royalty attending the Variety Creative Impact Awards brunch held at the stylish but quirky Parker Palm Springs. Day three of the Palm Springs International Film Festival was buzzing with luxury cars…
By Betty Francis I must thank Robert Duvall, who provided the theme for this report on the Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards Gala. When Terri Ketover, co-chair (with Garry Kief) of the after-party, introduced me as a “society reporter” Duvall quipped, “Good – let’s…
Written by Debra Gruszecki The Desert Sun A Sunday CEO profile from The Desert Sun’s Business Plus section 11:48 PM, Jan. 8, 2011 Harold Matzner: The name may be as synonymous to the Palm Springs International Film Festival as one-time MGM Studio chief Louis B….
