Berks-based film, ‘Le Bon Chef’
Schott Productions, the Reading-based team behind the 2020 independent film “Dust Nuggets,” has announced it is in preproduction for its next feature film, “Le Bon Chef,” which is on schedule to begin filming in the fall.
“Le Bon Chef” tells the story of a 50-something female chef at a top French restaurant going bankrupt as people’s tastes slowly change to vegan, low-carb and fusion — everything French food is not.
The film features a diverse cast of characters who bring their kooky life perspectives into the melting pot of “Le Bon Chef.”
As with Schott Productions’ previous projects, “Le Bon Chef” will be filmed in Berks County. The film is currently in the development stage — bringing on production partners, securing locations for filming and attracting talent for major roles.
Eric Roberts and Robert Picardo were both featured in “Dust Nuggets.” Producer Sue Lange and director Tracy Schott will likewise bring known talent to this project.
“While the pandemic has made things more difficult and more expensive, we’ve also discovered that we now have more access to people in the industry who in the past were caught up in studio productions,” Schott said. “This means there are some very talented actors out there who aren’t working. We’re excited that ‘Le Bon Chef’ has attracted the attention of people in the industry who want to see the film get made.”
To secure seed money, Schott Productions held a
crowd-funding campaign that raised $20,000. The money will be used to secure cast and legal personnel as well as start a social media presence.
“Get ready Reading! If all goes according to schedule, we will be filming this fall!” Lange said.
For more information, visit leboncheffilm.com, email info@schottproductions.com or call 800-9955963.
Galentine’s + Valentine’s events
Every 2nd Friday of the month, the West Reading shops and restaurants celebrate with “2nd Friday on the Avenue” hosted by the West Reading Community Revitalization Foundation (WRCRF).
2nd Friday on the Avenue on Feb. 12 is a time to celebrate and recognize our independent shops and locally owned restaurants! With Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14, retailers are offering events and promotions all weekend long.
• Muddy Creek Soap Company is celebrating their Five Year Anniversary on the Avenue Friday, Feb. 12.
• Fleet Feet West Reading is hosting their annual Teddy Bear Trot to Opportunity House Saturday, Feb.
13.
• Many of our womenowned businesses have come together to celebrate Galentine’s Day on the Avenue Saturday, Feb. 13. Galentine’s Day is all about ladies celebrating ladies. The origin of the unofficial holiday comes from a Parks and Recreation episode in which the main character, Leslie Knope, gathers her gal pals to celebrate with brunch, gifts, and positive vibes — no boys allowed. Galentine’s Day parties are growing in popularity, too. In 2011, 400 guests were invited to a Galentine’s Day party. By 2020, that number jumped to 124,800 — an over 31,000% increase! (source: evite.com)
• The West Reading Farmers’ Market will be open Sunday, Feb. 14 from 10 a.m. to noon.
• Many restaurants are offering specials all weekend plus extended Sunday hours.
We are loading events and promotions on our Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/ events/172087684370374
Restaurants were pleased to welcome back indoor dining at 50% capacity last month. Stay warm plus support local business owners, many also offer outdoor heated seating, delivery and takeout. West Reading may not be 100% open for business, but businesses are 100% committed to serving the community.
Please wear a mask and practice social distancing, if possible. Merchants are following guidelines in line with advice from the CDC, State and Local officials. Small business owners value your understanding in limiting in store visits and requiring masks to protect their personal safety as well as their family. Please call ahead to make appointments for our retail shops whenever possible, especially during Holiday weekends.
The public is invited to share their 2nd Friday adventures on our social media.
Tag on Instagram: @ VisitWestReading #visitwestreading, Facebook: Visit West Reading, Twitter: @VisitWestRDG.
Visit WRCRF’s website visitwestreading.org to learn more about the merchants, upcoming events and the Sunday Winter Farmers’ Market.
Books
Crosslink Publishing has announced the release of “Death and a Crocodile,” the debut mystery novel by Morgantown resident Lisa E. Betz.
This unusual whodunit, set in first-century Rome, features a spunky heroine who shares her unconventional spirit.
Betz drew inspiration from 35 years of leading Bible studies to create an entertaining mystery set in the world of the early church, and then she filled that world with eccentric characters, courageous females and a sausage-snatching cat.
By combining historical detail, faith and humor in a fast-paced mystery, she hopes to provide readers with a story that both entertains and encourages.
Ancient Rome is a challenging setting for a female sleuth, but daring to be unconventional is a topic Betz frequently writes about in her blog, “Sleuths, Snark & Inspiration.” She is passionate about inspiring others (real and fictional) to become their best selves and live with authenticity, confidence and purpose.
Betz worked as an engineer, substitute teacher and play director before becoming a mystery writer. She brings her analytical mind, quirky humor and positive outlook to all she does.
When not writing, she can be found volunteering at The Village Library of Morgantown or experimenting with ancient Roman cooking.
“Death and a Crocodile” will be released Tuesday and is available for preorder from Amazon and other book retailers in print and e-book versions.