Local Film Maker Gets Prestigious Award
Laguna Beach resident and chair of MacGillivray Freeman Films, Greg Mac Gillivray, was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the eighth annual New York Festivals Television & Film Awards earlier this month in Las Vegas.
In the arc of his 50-year career, from working with Stanley Kubrick on “The Shining” to producing 40 films for IMAX Theatres, MacGillivray said his creative team in Laguna Beach keeps trying to push the film experience to new and unexpected levels.
His career started with surf films, moved on to Hollywood and eventually to IMAX films. The company started with partner Jim Freeman in 1966 today has more than 50 films to its credit, including 40 giant-screen films and five of the top 10 highest-grossing IMAX films of all time.
MacGillivray has received two Academy Award nominations for best documentary short subject: “The Living Sea” in 1995 and “Dolphins” in 2000.
Club Gets New Branch Director
The Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach announcedthe promotion of Hans Laroche to Canyon Branch director
In his 15 years working for the club, Laroche has carried on its basketball programs and offered sports, fitness and recreation activities.
“His professional relationship … with our youth, parents, staff and community is humbling. Hans speaks from his heart…” said CEO Pam Estes.
Playhouse Development Director Retires
Laguna Playhouse announces the retirement of Leslie Anne Mogul, associate director of development, effective June 1.
Mogul joined the Playhouse in 2010 and has been instrumental in raising $2.1 annually for the theatre through the development of new programs, grant making, event development and relationship management.
“She is well respected by donors, vendors, and corporate and executive leadership,” said Executive Director Ellen Richard.
For her next act, Mogul plans visits with family and friends and trips to Israel and Africa. She will also share her expertise with other not-for-profit organizations.
Local Gets Board Appointment
Irvine non-profit Working Wardrobesnamed to its board Laguna Beach resident Linda Blakemore.
Blakemore is president of staffing company Atlantic Pacific Group.
Working Wardrobes provides services to ready their clients for entering the workforce.
