In a move to send a clear message that Louisiana’s Film Industry is an established and viable industry in the State of Louisiana, Shreveport Mayor Cedric B. Glover has called together statewide elected officials , film commissioners, producers, filmmakers, vendors and businesses supporting the film industry to the 2008 Louisiana Film Summit … Defining the Future.

Shreveport takes the lead in a field of nearly 20 state film commissioners meeting at the Convention Center on Friday August 1, 2008 from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM. The Summit begins with national industry professionals Mary Ann Hughes, Vice President of Walt Disney Pictures and Television and Award Winning Director/Cameraman and Writer Jody Eldred. Louisiana Director of Film and Television/Louisiana Office of Entertainment Industry Development, Chris Stelly and Dr Christopher Martin, Dean of the Frost School of Business at Centenary College will explore the impact that the Film Industry has had statewide.

“Despite the very apparent success of the Film Industry in Louisiana, a perception has formed in the minds of some that the industry is fleeting, here today, gone tomorrow,” says Mayor Glover. “I’ve called this Summit to bring all of the stakeholders together to see, hear, discuss, network and realize the widespread economic impact we’ve gained from the film industry and together pledge to continue to support the industry at the state, local and regional levels.” “I want this Summit to clearly establish, without any doubt, that the Film Industry has made its place in Louisiana.”

“Shreveport has been named third best place to shoot movies in the country,” says Arlena Acree, Director of Film, Media and Entertainment for the City of Shreveport. “Our statewide challenges deserve statewide investment.”

Shreveport Mayor Cedric Glover and Bossier Mayor Lorenz Walker will welcome Summit presenters and participants. Lunch features Actor/Comedian Rodney Perry. Panel discussions are planned for the afternoon. Members of the media are invited to attend any and all sessions.