Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Economic Development and Technology, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 282, submitting for study and consideration the nominations of:

begs leave to report as follows:

Upon review of the testimony and statements submitted by the nominees, your Committee finds that each of the nominees has the necessary character, experience, and qualifications to serve on the Hawai'i Television and Film Advisory Board (Board).

Your Committee received testimony supporting the nominees from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism.

John (Jack) W. Bates is the CEO of Starr Seigle Communications, Inc. His extensive background in advertising and marketing will provide the Board with tremendous insight into the commercial industry both here in Hawaii and on a national level. Mr. Bates has been honored with several advertising and marketing as well as community awards for his outstanding leadership.

Albert A. Burns is the business representative for the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, providing a critical element in the development of the industry in Hawaii. Mr. Burns' union provides crew for all of the departments necessary for a film or television production. For many years, Mr. Burns was an electrician and worked his way up the ranks for major productions in Hawaii like Hawaii 5-0 and Magnum P.I.

Ray L. Lovell is a writer and an independent producer representing that very important element in the make-up of the Hawaii Television and Film Development Board. As a veteran television news reporter and producer, Mr. Lovell brings a wealth of knowledge and perspective to the table, particularly as the Board looks at developing our local production community.

Christopher Lee runs Chris Lee Productions, Inc., a newly formed multimedia content and management company. Previously, Mr. Lee was the president of motion picture production for Columbia Pictures as well as Tri-Star Pictures. Among the Academy Award winning films he is responsible for are: "Jerry Maguire", "As Good As it Gets", and "Philadelphia". Mr. Lee is now working closely with Square USA as one of the producers of "Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within".

Your Committee finds that the nominees have been appointed based upon their credentials, integrity, and a desire to improve Hawaii's film industry through their service on the Hawai'i Television and Film Advisory Board.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Economic Development and Technology that is attached to this report, your Committee, after full consideration of the background, character, experience, and qualifications of the nominees, has found the nominees to be qualified for the positions to which nominated and recommends that the Senate advise and consent to the nominations.