The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is a federation of 38 separate health insurance organizations and companies in the United States. Combined, they directly or indirectly provide health insurance to over 99 million Americans. The history of Blue Cross dates back to 1929, while the history of Blue Shield dates to 1939. The Blue Cross Association dates back to 1960, while its Blue Shield counterpart was actually created in 1948. The two organizations merged in 1982, forming the current association.
The Charleston International Film Festival (CIFF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created in 2007 to bring people together through the art and science of film. Through this unique art, which has the power to touch our emotions and provoke thought like no other, we intend to promote the exchange of ideas, a greater cross-cultural awareness, and inspire others around the world. CIFF accomplishes this with an international film and screenplay competition, dedicated to showcasing the art and talent of emerging filmmakers and writers from the U.S. and around the world, in an amazing city known for its deep-rooted American history. Over the five day spring event which attracts visitors and aficionados from across the region and U.S., all genres of film including a wide range of subject matter are explored. The latest sneak previews and premieres of some of the best new features, documentaries, shorts and animations of local, national and international filmmakers are screened. After the shows, be our guest at the finest select venues around town for nightly after-parties and deal making opportunities. In addition to films and special events, insightful industry panels and educational workshops are offered. The festival closes on a high note at the formal Awards Gala, when the finest in filmmaking and writing displayed during the competition are recognized and honored for their outstanding efforts.