Prior to starting at North Shore Studios (then Lions Gate Studios) in August 2002, I worked with the North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce. Coming from a business development environment my first impression of the film industry was with how extensive the film industry permeates the local economy. Small and medium sized businesses like florists, dry cleaners, clothing stores, antique stores, sporting goods, and restaurants to equipment rentals, printers, building supply companies, car rentals, hotels, the list goes on; All of these businesses are direct recipients of the over billion dollars spent in BC every year by mostly US production companies. And it is an industry with a real sense of community that is generous. I have made many friends and feel fortunate to work in such an interesting business with such terrific people.