Read the Joint PDQ and Renee Warmack Productions’ Press Release
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Tampa Theatre to host “First Look” Screening of Because of Sam documentary
Movie to highlight Sam Piazza and bring awareness to Down syndrome
Tampa, FL (July 22, 2019) – The Tampa Theatre, along with Renee Warmack Productions, LLC, will host a special screening event on Monday, July 29, for Because of Sam, a new documentary film about long-time PDQ (People Dedicated to Quality) team member Sam Piazza, who has Down syndrome.
This new documentary film shows how Piazza overcame bullying, won Homecoming King at Gaither High School, and is an advocate for people with disabilities. Because of Sam gives an inside look at Piazza’s journey from birth to the present day, and includes the uplifting perspectives of people who have been impacted by him. Piazza not only overcame tremendous obstacles, but now works tirelessly as a volunteer for Best Buddies and Gigi’s Playhouse; and serves as an advisor to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. The 50-minute documentary was produced by Tampa native Renee Warmack.
“This is a homegrown story about a hometown hero that will transform how the world views people with disabilities, and inspire all people to pursue their dreams,” said Warmack.
Warmack and the Piazza family will host a special preview of the film on Monday, July 29 at 7:30 pm at Tampa Theatre. Tickets are $12.50 for General Admission and $9.50 for Tampa Theatre Members and can be purchased at BecauseofSamTheMovie.com or Tampa Theatre Box Office.
A Meet and Greet Reception will take place prior to the screening from 5:30 pm-6:30 pm in the Theatre Lobby with a separate ticket purchase. During this Reception guests can meet Sam and the Piazza family, producer Renee Warmack and her crew, as well as other industry professionals. A limited number of tickets are available for the Meet and Greet for $75, which includes a film ticket, appetizers provided by PDQ, two drink tickets, and early access to the theatre to select their seats. After the film a brief Q&A discussion will take place with the audience, hosted by the Piazza family and Warmack.
Event Details: “First Look” Screening of Because of Sam
Date: Monday, July 29, 2019
Location: Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin St. Tampa FL 33602
Event Timeline:
5:30-6:30 pm: Meet and Greet Reception (This separate ticket includes a film ticket)
6:45 pm: Doors Open – General Admission
7:30 pm: Screening begins
After the Movie: Q&A session
Thank you to the following event sponsors for their support: Mike Hughes and Jeff Shelton, United Way Suncoast, Best Buddies International, DeBartolo Family Foundation, Film Tampa Bay, PDQ, Mark Rankin, Shutts and Bowen, Suncoast Credit Union, and Tonia Williams.
About Renee Warmack – Producer, Director and Writer – Because of Sam
Tampa native and USF alumna, Renee Warmack, MPA, is a Producer, Speaker and Coach who uses her inspirational movies, engaging events and motivational coaching program to help others claim their power and capture their dreams. Learn more at: ReneeWarmackProductions.com.
About PDQ
Founded in 2011, award-winning PDQ – short for “People Dedicated to Quality” – offers chef-driven recipes and mindful ingredients typically found in a fine casual restaurant with the value, speed and convenience of the fast food and fast casual segment. Outback Steakhouse co-founder Bob Basham and MVP Holdings CEO Nick Reader are the two principal owners of PDQ. Beloved throughout the Southeast and now beyond for its hand-breaded chicken tenders, PDQ crafts delicious sandwiches, salads and hand-spun milkshakes fresh in-store, every day. PDQ is committed to creating deep roots in its local communities and has given nearly $6 million in dollars and in-kind donations to local charities, schools, and organizations since its inception. On October 30, 2011, the original PDQ restaurant opened its doors in Tampa (FL) and the concept now has locations throughout Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Utah. For more information, visit www.eatPDQ.com.
Media Contact
Jeffrey Kamis, PDQ – jkamis@eatPDQ.com; 813-784-3642
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Click here for a PDF version of the press release: Because of Sam PDQ Official Press Release