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Laemmle Playhouse 7
How many years have you worked in the Movie Theatre Industry and how did you first become involved?
I have been with Laemmle since 1987. It started out as a part time high school job but I steadily moved my way up to being a GM.  I was the first, and here I am almost 20 years later, the only GM for my theatre the Playhouse 7 in Pasadena. The theater schedule fit my lifestyle so I just kinda rolled with it.
What’s the best part of your Job? Do you have any memorable experiences that you would like to share?
I really like working with different people from all walks of life. We have had some really great times as a close knit staff. We opened the original Blair Witch Project here and nobody was prepared for the crowds and insanity of it all. We showed it on almost every screen we had and it pretty much sold out every show for weeks.

What is your fondest movie theatre memory?
I have really enjoyed meeting some of the celebrities and actors that have come through over the years. Bob Hope, Robert Duvall, Val Kilmer, Nicholas Cage, Andy Summers, Halle Berry, Francis Ford Coppola, Charlize Theron, John C Reilly... the list goes on and on.

How old were you when you went to your first movie? Do you remember the theatre and the city?
One of the first movies I remember seeing that I really enjoyed at 7 years old was Star Wars. It was at a drive in theater in Sacramento, CA.

What is your favorite movie of all time? What is it about this movie that stands out for you?
I’d have to say Star Wars or Empire Strikes Back. Those two films were mind blowing to me as a kid. I still enjoy them today as I’m sure most everyone does.

Do you have any industry related hobbies or experiences? Please explain.
I don’t really have any film related hobbies believe it or not. I never wanted to be a filmmaker or an actor. I do enjoy movies but I actually find it hard to see many these days.

Do you have any special interests? What are they?
I really enjoy travelling. I like seeing the world and all the different people and places. I’m a huge LA Kings fan and when I’m not at the games I enjoy playing a few times a week.

Of all the resources that the Association offers (seminars, scholarships, email advisories, etc.) which is most useful for you?
I’d have to say the seminars are most informative to me. They really help guide us as managers into making the best decisions for our company and ourselves.