Local FCP users should know that a major theft recently occurred at the non-profit production and post house, Charles Street Video. Last Thursday night (April 19) thieves broke into the facility and made off with a variety of shooting gear, including two, new Panasonic high def cameras (an HDX 900 and an HVX 200), a high end wireless mic, a mini-disc recorder and various accessories. Total value of the stolen gear is just south of $100,000.

Anyone who learns of any information that might lead to the recovery of the stolen equipment is strongly encouraged to contact CSV. Who knows? Maybe a reward's in the offing.

The Toronto video production world should likely take security precautions, as they too are vulnerable to the actions of nefarious individuals like those who hit CSV. After all, if they're so low as to steal from a community oriented organization that looks to help emerging media artists, train FCP and Avid editors and encourage do-it-yourselfers, then they won't hesitate to rip off the small businesses and freelancers that characterize the FCP world.

Again, if you learn of any production that strikes you as suspicious in any way--like their shooting gear is conveniently free and remarkably like that taken from CSV-- contact either the organization or the police.

If you can't make it out to a TOFCPUG meeting no need to panic anymore. Sure you won't be able to win any great doorprizes or schmooze with your pals, but at least now you won't miss the presentations because they will be streaming live from:

So check it out while both of your broken legs heal because that has to be the only reason why you'd miss coming out to a meeting in-person...

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