A Letter on Tax Incentives for the Entertainment Industry

(This is a letter I wrote to my state representatives about the incentives the state offers production companies to produce films and movies here. While it's not the type of letter others can just cut and paste, it is an example of how you can personalize a letter to get the attention of your representatives.)

Dear Sir,

I am writing in support of the continuance of the Georgia Entertainment Industry Incentive Act and the removal of the "sunset clause" from its provisions.

I moved to Georgia 18 months ago after losing my job as a store manager with Blockbuster Video. I have pursued other employment since arriving here but, with the current economic conditions, it has been difficult. During that time, the only work I have been able to attain has been as an extra in productions that have come to Georgia. So far, I've worked on a movie, a pilot and a regular TV series plus I'm currently waiting to hear about a job tomorrow. This is all since November, when I found out about the opportunities that are offered in Georgia through the entertainment field.

While the money that I've earned isn't enough to truly live on, the jobs I received have helped bolster my spirits and self-worth as I continue to search for steady employment.

While this story is personal, I'd like to point out the benefits the state-at-large gets with these productions:

* This will be the first year that I will pay Georgia state taxes. That is revenue that goes to the coffers of the state that would not be there if productions weren't drawn here with tax incentives.

* On set at the productions I've worked, I have seen a variety of local talents and businesses given opportunities to show their craft and provided needed services. Carpenters, caterers, production assistants, public relation experts - all working toward a common goal and creating revenue for the state.

I'd also ask that you repeal the "sunset clause" on this bill. In the time it's been implemented, it has more than proved itself useful as a tool to stimulate the state's economy and assist its citizens with work. The Georgia Entertainment Industry Incentive Act deserves to stay on the books.

I appreciate your time considering my thoughts on this important subject to our state. I look forward to seeing what action the state legislature takes on this measure during the budget proceedings.

Sincerely,

Don Smith

About Me

I'm 42. I joked when I turned that age that I should know the answer to "Life, the Universe and Everything" (re the Douglas Adam's Hitchhiker's Guide series.) Like in the book, I now know the question is "What do you get if you multiple six by nine?" Also, like in the book, I now know there is something fundamentally wrong with the universe and that I still don't have the real answer.

I'm currently unemployed, though that's not entirely true. As of late, I have been working occasionally as an extra on movie sets in and around Atlanta. Interesting work, if you can get it. It helps that I am a film nerd so I find all aspects of movie production fascinating.

I fancy myself a writer, even though it's been a long while since I've been paid to write. I have been a newspaper reporter/editor, columnist and public relations director. I have had two short plays produced and have placed well in some screenwriting competitions. I've also been asked to submit additional materials to Marvel Comics, something that people in the know have told me never happens. Eventually I'd like to write for movies or television.

Occasionally, I do stand-up at open mic nights. I enjoy writing comedy and do most of it through my Twitter feed, which I started about six months ago. My humor ranges from social commentary that speaks out against the world to pure goofiness that speaks out against the world (but, if you keep reading here, I guess you will eventually realize that.)

My life is pretty simple right now. I'm single and I am living with my parents. (Yes, I do literally live in the room above the garage.) After the end of an eight-year relationship and leaving my job as a store manager with a video rental chain currently undergoing bankruptcy, I moved to Georgia to reset my life. It has proved tougher than I thought it would be.

I have four chihuahuas and two cockatiels from my previous relationship. My dogs are sometimes smarter than I am; my birds always whistle better.

I am trying to figure out who I am and change the parts of me that I don't like or aren't helping me succeed. This blog is part of that process.

And, as always, I like microwaveable turkey dogs.