Member News Category: SOTI

Always respected what ITOC has done for indie theaters, since becoming VP of Cinema United New Jersey, I’ve enjoyed getting involved and helping when I can, would love to on a national level!

Been running a 3 screen indie for 9 years, was named VP of NJ Cinema United last December, went to more political functions to advocate on movie theaters behalf, I love doing it.

I left AMC in 2012 specifically because I didn’t think the overall health of the industry was in their best interest. I sought out an indie theater to better represent the business, helping independent theaters has been my passion for 13 years now.

I am passionate about the exhibition industry and believe the magic of the movies on the big screen is an experience everyone should enjoy. Cinema United has long been a vital force in our industry’s success, and I want to help ensure that continues. In a business that grows more complex every day, a strong trade association is essential—guiding theatre owners through challenges and helping us to focus on what truly matters.

The SVOG program literally saved our way of life, underscoring the importance of Cinema United to independent theatres. Serving on the Board would allow me to contribute to the success of our members, strengthen the industry, and give back to an organization that has continually supported my family’s business.

What experience or perspective do you bring that you believe will benefit the association?

I bring a lifetime of connection to Cinema United, years of management experience, and a deep commitment to keeping the future of moviegoing bright. For me, the theatre industry is not just a career—it’s a way of life. My experience spans everything from meeting with the bank to secure a loan to sweeping up popcorn before the doors open. It’s a business that requires constant problem-solving, a skill I developed in my engineering career and now use daily.

I don’t always have the answers, but I believe that asking the right questions and working as a team will always lead us to solutions. Every time we show a film, we’re throwing a party and inviting the whole community. Success means sharing not just the magic of the movies, but also our genuine love for them with every patron who walks through our doors.

As independents, by definition, we each bring unique views and ideas. In representing our group, I would strive to advocate for initiatives that benefit all, not just a few. I’m eager to hear what others believe would strengthen their businesses and to encourage regular forums where independent theatre owners can share ideas, collaborate, and brainstorm. From there, I would work to advance these solutions to CU for support and implementation.

I am deeply passionate about strengthening the relationship between studios and independent theatres. Too often, there is unnecessary secrecy in the business we conduct together, and it’s time for that to change. If independent theatres are to survive, this relationship must be rooted in mutual respect—seeing each other as partners, not adversaries.

Independent theatre owners are a significant part of this industry and deserve strong, fair representation to ensure our continued success.

I love the fact that the Executive Board of Cinema United has representation from cinemas of all sizes, and I would be thrilled to represent the smaller independent exhibitors on the Executive Board in an effort to help make the industry as a whole even stronger. I am excited about the direction that Cinema United has taken in recent years, including its objective to further build community in the industry, and I would enjoy working with other exhibitors to accomplish this and its other goals. I am a huge believer in our industry and the important role that cinemas play in communities all across the country, and I believe that our industry needs to be unified more than it ever has to keep the movie-going experience relevant and exceptional in these communities.

While I’ve only been an exhibitor for 8 years, I’ve spent my 30+ year career working with exhibitors all across the country in a financial capacity. I’ve had the unique opportunity of working with groups ranging from single screens to AMC, from drive-in operators to dine-in cinemas, and from groups in Hawaii all the way to Maine. Having worked with over 100 different exhibitors in my career, I’ve been given a ‘behind the scenes’ look at our industry and have seen how there are so many different approaches that can lead to business success. And now as an operator, I’ve been able to take so much of what I’ve learned from others and combine it with trial and error of my own. This diverse experience working successfully with the various shapes and sizes making up our industry would be beneficial in working with other board members to accomplish unified goals.

How do you plan to represent the interests of independent companies if elected?

It is vital that the independents play a key role in the growth of our industry. Having worked with so many different operators of all sizes in my career, I firmly believe that there are more smaller independent exhibitors that get what today’s customers want and even provide what they want than larger operators. I believe the independents do a better job of listening to its customers, and the industry as a whole can learn a lot from this. Conversely, the larger companies get the benefit of scale and often more influence with vendors, distributors, media and sometimes customers, and that too is super important for the industry. This is such a diverse industry that should all be working towards the same goals, and I would like the opportunity to help make sure we are heard so that cinemas of all sizes and in towns of all sizes can thrive.

I’m passionate about preserving and strengthening independent cinemas. Serving on the Executive Board has allowed me to advocate for the unique challenges and opportunities facing independent exhibition. With over 50 years in this industry—from working concessions as a child to leading a regional circuit—I understand the operational realities and community value of independent theatres. I don’t always agree with Cinema United leadership, but I engage respectfully and cooperatively, always with the best interests of our members in mind. I’m seeking re-election to continue ensuring our voices are heard, our needs are represented, and our future is supported through thoughtful leadership and active participation in decisions that impact us all.

With over 50 years in the business, I bring a real-world, operator’s perspective to the table. I grew up working every job in our family theatre and eventually helped grow it into CineLux Theatres—a regional circuit with 62 screens across eight locations. I understand the challenges independent exhibitors face because I live them every day. I also know how important it is to stay connected to our communities, adapt quickly, and deliver great guest experience. I recognize the importance of collaborating and learning from other organizations that support independents, such as the ICA. I’ve advocated for ITOC’s recent studio meetings, helped develop industry webinars, and served on multiple boards, always focused on making sure the voices of independent exhibitors are heard. I don’t come with a one-size-fits-all mindset—I listen, collaborate, and speak up when needed. I believe in practical, thoughtful leadership that supports our membership.

How do you plan to represent the interests of independent companies if elected?

If re-elected, I’ll continue to be a strong, consistent voice for independent exhibitors. I stay actively engaged—attending every board and ITOC leadership meeting, advocating at studio visits, and helping shape ITOC Connect and CinemaCon panels. I listen closely to what matters most to our members and make sure those concerns are brought to the table. I’ll keep pushing for advocacy and resources that reflect the unique challenges independents face—like rising operational costs, and studio policies which are much too onerous for independent exhibitors. I’ll stay closely connected to industry resources like the ICA and attend regional conferences to stay informed and engaged with a broad range of operator perspectives. I believe in open, respectful dialogue—even when there’s disagreement—because that’s how progress happens. My goal is to keep Cinema United focused on practical solutions that support our day-to-day operations while building a stronger future for independent cinema.

My interest in continuing to serve is simple—the job is not done!

I believe the ITOC members (me included) can do more to serve the interests of the small independent exhibitors. I’m passionate about our issues and I’d like to serve another term to continue working for you.

In that regard, ITOC members just returned from a series of in-person meetings with many of the studios and it was the best set of meetings I’ve had in a long time. We presented our specific concerns, and we were well received. I’m very encouraged with the future of our discussions and the momentum we’re created.

I think we can more informative communication with independent theatre owners through webinars and other methods. That work needs to continue, and I feel we need continuity in ITOC leadership to be effective advocates for you all.

As I said the last time I ran, I think I’m uniquely qualified to serve based on my prior experience in both large and small companies. Look at my resume, I’ve been in the business for a long time which has allowed me to develop valuable long-term relationships in every area of the business including many top studio executives.

I understand, firsthand, the issues and challenges we’re facing. I also understand the perspective held by the larger companies, so I can communicate effectively with all my fellow board members. That’s important.

For those that know me, you know that I won’t hesitate to speak up for independent theatre owners. For example, in the early ’90’s I organized a group of discount theatre exhibitors to form the National Association of Discount Theatres to eventually persuade a major studio to change a damaging policy. That’s effective leadership.

If re-elected, I will continue to be a strong voice for independent theatre owners—advocating for fair studio practices, broader film access, increased marketing support, and policies that reflect our unique challenges.

I’ll push for more meaningful ITOC communications and programs that directly benefit independents, and ensure our needs are front and center in decisions that shape the future of exhibition.

You can count on me to represent you with honesty, integrity, and preparation. I’ve attended every board meeting and reviewed every board packet thoroughly over the past two years—and I’ll keep doing the work.

I believe in the value of Cinema United and will do my best to provide value to you.

Movie theaters are beloved community staples, and when faced with sale or closure, members of those communities often find ways to step in to carry on the operations of the theater. As a result, many new operators find themselves in an industry completely foreign to them, navigating not only the challenge of running a new-to-them business, but also encountering the myriad systemic obstacles the industry has faced post-pandemic. This was certainly our experience when we purchased our historic drive-in, and we felt very isolated. Through Cinema United, I was able to connect with other operators, brainstorm creative solutions, and access vital resources and education that helped us to not just survive but thrive. Becoming a Cinema United Ambassador was a big step toward being able to help my peers on a broader level. I hope to take the next step toward an official position to further grow and empower exhibitors.

My career in social work often involved advocating for underrepresented groups and helping people to find resources that could improve their well-being. I have already found myself doing the same in the cinema industry, always looking for ways to support my peers, frequently consulting with other operators to discuss their challenges and connecting them with resources or connections who can help. I have attended the Summit two years in a row and always come away filled with inspiration, ideas, and optimism for the future of exhibition and the success of independent cinema. I wholeheartedly believe Cinema United can be a stronger advocate for small, independent theaters, and I will use my voice on the Executive Board to make sure they’re well represented.

As a single-screen independent drive-in, I would bring a unique perspective to the board. I make an effort to explore what my colleagues in the industry are doing by visiting or talking with other theaters, seeing how they operate, and helping to troubleshoot. Even if it isn’t an issue we are personally dealing with, I always try to be cognizant of the challenges other theaters are facing. I hope to establish myself as an approachable representative who will truly listen to the concerns of my peers and amplify their voices – especially those of small theaters or rural communities that may otherwise get overlooked. I am committed to seeking out policies and initiatives that will help each theater reach its individual potential while strengthening the industry as a whole.

I deeply appreciate the work Cinema United is doing to support our industry, and I believe there’s value in having broader representation from the independent art house exhibition sector on the Executive Board. As someone leading a nonprofit, mission-driven cinema, I see firsthand the unique challenges and opportunities our part of the field faces. Having served on other boards and working with my own board at the Belcourt, I understand the importance of collaborative leadership in service of the collective good. At the same time, I believe it’s critical to ensure diverse perspectives—by size, geography, mission, and audience—are part of the conversation and shaping decisions at the board level.

As executive director of the Belcourt Theatre for the past 18 years, I’ve had a firsthand view of the challenges and opportunities facing independent cinemas. Operating at the local level while also serving on national boards—including the League of Historic American Theatres and Art House Convergence—has given me a wide-angle perspective on the evolving landscape we all face. I’ve gained deep experience across marketing, audience development, and programming—and can offer insight into both the day-to-day realities and the systemic issues our sector navigates. I value collaboration and bring a creative, solutions-focused mindset to problem solving. I believe my experience, paired with a commitment to independent exhibition voices, can meaningfully contribute to the association’s work.

At the Belcourt, we’ve thrived by both innovating independently and learning from our peers across the independent exhibition community. That experience has underscored for me how varied and unique independent cinemas are—yet how many of our challenges are shared. With many years in this field, I understand the complexity of operating independent theatres and the importance of advocating for sustainable practices, exceptional programming, and strong community engagement. If elected, I’ll work to ensure the voices and needs of independents are heard and valued—bringing both strategic perspective and a collaborative spirit to Cinema United’s work.

I am passionate about strengthening the independent cinema community and see serving on the Board of Cinema United as an opportunity to make a lasting impact. I am committed to advocating for policies, resources, and programs that support small and mid-sized members. I view the board as a platform to bring fresh ideas, foster collaboration, and ensure that diverse voices are represented in decision-making. My goal is to help guide the organization toward sustainable growth, increased member engagement, and a stronger collective voice in the industry.

I bring a unique blend of entrepreneurial experience, community engagement, and advocacy for independent theater owners, particularly in the arts and entertainment sector. As the founder and operator of Stuart Cinema & Café, a self funded theater, I have firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities faced by small theater owners, from navigating tight budgets to building loyal audiences and fostering community partnerships.

If elected, I plan to represent the interests of independent theaters by ensuring their unique challenges are not overlooked in conversations often dominated by the larger chains. I will advocate for policies, resources, and initiatives that address the specific realities of our challenging operations—balancing the need for competitive programming, sustainable pricing, and strong community presence.

I love our industry, and the particular community of exhibitors. I have grown up always being taught to find opportunities to serve others. That is how I view this position, another way in which I can serve. A chance to give back to the industry that welcome me in as a bright eyed 26 year old who had never even worked in a movie theater when he opened his cinema.

I served on many other boards over the years, so I’m familiar with how to work in such spaces. While there are great members of our association who are currently serving in the independent seats, most are owners of fairly large circuits that still fall within the definition of the independents. My day to day is very different from that. This evening, for example, I have two Barco projectors at my house that I’m in the process of refurbishing. Yesterday I spent 3 hours replacing toilets. Last week I practically climbed inside of our ice machine bin to do a deep cleaning on it. I think having people on the board who are the real do-it-all little guys and gals is important! I would also suggest it may be a benefit to have some younger members on the board, and I’m still hanging of for dear life to my 30s.

I am laser-focused on the issues that impact our smallest members of the association. Those of us with just a few screens have a particular set of issues that need to be kept at the forefront of the conversations being had within our association. Currently, the executive board is lacking in representation of the most common type of exhibitor in the association, and I would love to bring our common issues up as often and as vigorously as possible. I think too often we can throw our hands up and say things just are the way that they are. I intend to make every effort to move the ball down the field for my fellow independents.

I am well positioned to provide valuable insight to concerns of smaller exhibitors to the extended industry, as I did before. It would be an honor to once again serve on the Executive Board.

Having been one of the Board Members and later Officer of NATO during Exhibition’s most challenging time, along with running similar organizations, I can provide helpful input into the future direction of Cinema United.

As I have done in the past with Chairing the Independent Theatre Owners Committee and later as a Director, I network as much as possible to hear concerns of Independents and represent those concerns to the Board.