The Georgia Screen Entertainment Coalition (GSEC) announced on Tuesday the recipients of its first-ever “Friends of Film” awards. The awards were given to both Republican and Democratic state legislators who showed support of legislation and policies to the film, television, and digital entertainment industry in Georgia. One of the winners included Rep. Teri Anulewicz, one of our contributors here at GeorgiaPol!
A press release stated that the legislators were chosen based on “their voting record on industry specific issues, leadership in protecting and advancing the industry and their support of policies and initiatives that recognize Georgia’s film industry as an important economic driver for the state.”
In addition to Rep. Teri Anulewicz, the other honorees included:
- House Speaker David Ralston
- House Representatives James Beverly, John Carson, Matt Dollar, Chuck Efstration, Brett Harrell, Beth Moore, Terry Rogers, Richard Smith, Calvin Smyre and Ron Stephens
- State Senators Emanuel Jones, Harold Jones, Jeff Mullis, and Nan Orrock.
GSEC Executive Director Kelsey Moore:
“Georgia’s film industry pumps billions of dollars into the state’s economy each year, and has created substantial opportunities for thousands of Georgians, their communities and small businesses across the state. The continued success of this industry and its considerable impact on Georgia’s economy is made possible by the support and vision of key members of the General Assembly. We are grateful for the leadership of each one of this year’s Friends of Film winners and congratulate them on this recognition for their hard work and unwavering support of Georgia’s film, television and digital entertainment industry.”
Frank Patterson, GSEC Chairman and President & CEO of Pinewood Atlanta Studios:
“The entertainment industry brings significant investment into the state, offers a wide range of job opportunities and works in partnership with the state to deliver solid growth in economic development, job creation, workforce training, and technology. We are in the critical next phase of growth for this industry in Georgia, and support from the General Assembly is key to ensuring our state evolves from a production hub to a globally recognized entertainment ecosystem. We applaud and thank this year’s Friends of Film for their leadership and commitment to Georgia and the film industry.”