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| How many years have you worked in the Movie Theatre Industry and how did you first become involved? I just completed my 32nd year in the industry. I started working as an usher at the end of high school and was promoted to management while in college. I was inspired by seeing some of the classic films like “Lawrence of Arabia”, “Ben-Hur”, and “10 Commandments” at some of Hollywood’s most iconic venues like the Chinese Theatre, Village Westwood and Cinerama Dome. I developed a passion for our industry and wanted to lead my own team and build a reputation for being a great operator like the grand Hollywood locations. I took my 1st location as a General Manager at UA South Coast Village 3 (Now a Regency Theatre) in 1988. |
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| What’s the best part of your Job? Do you have any memorable experiences that you would like to share? The best part of my job today is seeing the people I work with be successful and find their passion within our industry. I love the challenge of leading a team to not just successful results but also to the success of the individuals who will be the future leaders in our business. |
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One of my fondest memories was seeing the original “Batman” starring Michael Keaton on opening night at midnight at the Chinese theatre. The line of people (many in costume) down Hollywood Blvd., hours in advance, was one of the best overall movie experiences I can share. Great atmosphere outside the theatre and the cheering through the movie was like no other rush I have had during a movie. |
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| How old were you when you went to your first movie? Do you remember the theatre and the city? While I know I went to some of the Disney movies as a child we did not go to many movies as a family. I enjoyed sports and outdoor activities. My first vivid movie experience memory was seeing the “Apple Dumpling Gang” in a small theatre in Biloxi, MS. |
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| What is your favorite movie of all time? What is it about this movie that stands out for you? "Lawrence of Arabia.” The beauty of the story and the awesome cinematography. This was the 1st classic film I saw in Hollywood and it was spectacular. |
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| Do you have any industry related hobbies or experiences? Please explain. I love attending the premiers at the LA Live location. LA Live is the flagship of the company and many of their events evoke nostalgia of my early movie going years when I attended events and got close to the stars. I love that we are creating great memories for enthusiastic movie fans! |
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| Do you have any special interests that you would like to share? When not working, or raising two girls at home, I love to play guitar and see live music. I started playing guitar at age 18 and enjoy playing the instrument in my free time. I also love to see live shows and have been to 10 live concerts in the past 12 months. |
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| What does being a member of NATO of CA/NV mean to you? I have had the opportunity to participate with NATO for the past 25 years. I have thoroughly enjoyed the community experience of our small industry. |
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| Of all the resources that the Association offers (seminars, scholarships, email advisories, etc.) which is most useful for you? The product seminars are how I was introduced to NATO and I still see them today as a great opportunity to connect with others in our industry. Whether meeting the studio representatives or discussion groups on industry topics, the seminars create an interactive industry environment. The scholarship program is also an outstanding program that NATO provides giving back to those looking to further their education. |
