After sitting through three hours of "King Kong," I can't be the first person to tell you: Brevity rules! So we're happy to help the good folks at Unity Crayons find submissions for their first annual short-film festival Feb. 17-18.

Unity Crayons is a local nonprofit community organization promoting "all ages" music shows and arts-related events. Your film can explore any subject, genre and style; cash prizes will be awarded in several categories. Just keep it to 15 minutes or less. The deadline is Feb. 1. See www.unitycrayons.com for more information.

— Derek Paiva

TOP PRIZE: VOLVOS FOR LIFE

If you know someone dedicated to improving the safety, quality of life or environment of others, Volvo Cars of North America wants to hear from you. Now in its fourth year, the Volvo for Life Awards honor accomplishments people make in their communities.

One overall winner, to be named "America's Greatest Hometown Hero," will receive a new Volvo every three years for life. To learn more, see www.volvoforlifeawards.com. Deadline for nominations is Sunday.

FINAL WORD

"... as an avid watcher of the Oscars, I can't help but be a little disappointed with the choice. It appears to be another sad attempt to smoke out Billy Crystal."

Jon Stewart | on his Oscars-hosting appointment, to the Associated Press