July 10 start here for 3D “Transformers 3”

“TRANSFORMERS 3” IN 3D? That’s what director Michael Bay and producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura told USA Today — that they will shoot in 3D and oh yes, it will have “a killer ending” as they bring the franchise to a close.

The excitement starts July 10 for six weeks, wrapping Aug. 19, as a crew of 200 films machines invading Michigan Avenue and the Loop, somehow engaging with the Russians in a space race.

The crew then spends two days, June 12-13 in Milwaukee to shoot a pivotal scene at the Milwaukee Art Museum.

The “T3” production is working out of the Chicago Film Studios, occupying all 300,000 sq ft. for offices, stages, construction, wardrobe, transportation and more.

For the Milwaukee shoot, “T3” has put out a call for paid extras, male and female trendy executive types, Saturday June 26, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center Wright Ballroom.

FOX TV’S “RIDE-ALONG” is scheduled to start shooting for five months here July 29, wrapping Dec. 4. Just announced: The co-executive producer and producing director is award-winning Lesli Linka Glatter, director of many “ER” episodes for 13 years, as well as “Mad Men” and “House” episodes

The show’s sets will be designed by veteran TV set designer, Baltimore-based Vincent Peranio (“The Wire,” “Homicide: Life on the Street”). DP is yet to be hired. Stars are Jason Clarke and Jeannifer Beal.

A BIG BUDWEISER SPOT PACKAGE for DDB is being shot by bi-coastal HSI all over the city, including Wrigleyville and the Fulton Market area.

A PILOT FOR A DOCUDRAMA about the sports rituals engage in before a big game is being shot here through the weekend by L.A.-based Michelle Lankwarden, an HBO producer. She felt Chicago was obviously the perfect location, given the fervor of fans for our abundant winning sports teams.

THE LIONS ROAR. Another Country’s David Gerbosi is the only sound mixer on the panel of mostly worldwide ad execs to judge radio commercials at the 2010 Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival, now through June 26. Total global entries for this year’s Cannes Lions hit a record-breaking 24,400.

A CAF HAPPY HOUR EVENT with MillerCoors’ CMO Andy England takes place June 24 at Fred & Adolph’s Pub & Terrace, 250 S. Wacker, 16th floor. See Screenings & Events for details.

A HAPPY RETIREMENT for 30-year state employee Cheryl Holyfield, who recently retired after 21 years at the Illinois Film Office where she served as office manager. Her position will be filled, notes IFO director Betsy Steinberg, which will bring the IFO staff number up to seven.

“RENAISSANCE OF FILM AND TV IN CHICAGO” is the topic that will be addressed at the 15th Annual Joint AFTRA/SAG Membership Meeting June 18 at the Allerton Hotel.

Union members will meet new executive director Eric Chaudron and director of TV/theatrical contracts, Kathy Byrne. They succeeded retiring Eileen Willenborg and Kit Woods, respectively.

Discussing the “Renaissance” are IFO’s Betsy Steinberg, IFO director Rich Moskal, the DGA’s Dan Moore and Fletcher Camera’s Sally Fletcher.

TRIBECA ENTERPRISES is IFP/Chicago’s 2010 honoree for the 4th annual IFP Gala in recognition of the New York-based organization’s many positive ventures supporting, expanding and promoting the independent film scene.

The Gala will be held Sept. 24, at newly renovated Excalibur night club. And since that date is a Sunday, one suspects Tribeca might send a representative (like Robert DeNiro, personally?) to accept the award.