Life of a Maverick: The Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger

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Samuel A. Maverick died in 1870. Maverick was an American pioneer who did not brand his calves. Cinequest Maverick Spirit events have honored many of the world's most accomplished directors, producers, actors, cinematographers, editors and composers. Cinequest now has the very rare privilege of honoring a person whose life epitomizes the concept of Maverick over a spectrum of career and human endeavors. Arnold Schwarzenegger's American story began as a nineteen-year-old immigrant in the tradition of forging a new life and new visions on American soil. Over the next decade, Schwarzenegger revolutionized the sport of bodybuilding, an interest rooted in the urgings of his policeman father while growing up in the small, Austrian village of Graz. Through innovative training, Schwarzenegger sculpted a work of art, his body. He dominated the sport not only with the most renowned physique but also with his unique blend of laser focus, supreme determination and charisma - claiming the title of Mr. Universe at the young age of 20 and ultimately winning the Mr. Olympia title seven times! Throughout his life, Schwarzenegger has been known for setting specific goals for himself - and always achieving them. Soon after his success in the sports world, Schwarzenegger set his sights on the prize in a new field: acting. In the seventies and eighties, he shined in some of the most cutting edge films of the time: Terminator, Conan the Barbarian and Stay Hungry, which won him the Golden Globe Award for Best Acting Debut in a Motion Picture. With each role he assumed, each part he played, Schwarzenegger brought us in touch with the shadow side as well as inspiring through superhuman feats - ultimately becoming one of the biggest and most popular actors of the 20th Century. Schwarzenegger uses his influence to better society and humanity. In addition to his extensive work with children and his position as Chairman of the President's Council on Physical Fitness, he twice received the Simon Wiesenthal "Humanity Prize" for his ongoing efforts to increase Holocaust awareness and has been an active supporter of the Special Olympics, among other charities. Then, the most Maverick chapter of his extraordinary career: In 2003, Schwarzenegger desired to change the face of California. Beating incredible odds, he assumed California's highest office, Governor. As with everything else he accomplishes, he brings heart, desire and brilliance to his political life. It is difficult enough to succeed in one major career; Schwarzenegger is swiftly on his way to proving himself in his third. And he has done it in the tradition of Samuel A. Maverick - with no brands. Join Cinequest for this rare and electrifying event with a legend, a leader and a humanitarian. - Halfdan Hussey. Please join our Governor in supporting Cinequest's services and benefits to students, Maverick artists, movie lovers and our economy. Event details: Tom McEnery, former Mayor of San Jose and Chair of Cinequest during its formative decade, will moderate a conversation with Governor Schwarzenegger emphasizing the Governor's amazing life. Select audience questions will follow. Lastly, Cinequest will present the Governor with our Maverick Spirit Award. LIFE OF A MAVERICK will take place at the Morris Dailey Auditorium (San Jose State University Campus).