June 2001

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New Studio To Open July 1

By now, the new facilities of Channel 5 on Banyan Blvd in West Palm Beach are the envy of every news organization in the country. Even more exciting, however, is the unique relationship between KO-MAR Productions and Channel 5. In February, Komar relocated its production office to the brand new, state of the art Channel 5 complex. The deal includes office space, as well as a 6,000 square foot studio equipped with the newest technology. The move has been exciting for the 20 year old company. "This provides an opportunity for us to grow from a small company into a much larger one," remarked Todd Kolich, President. The relationship is reminiscent of larger market coalitions in which local television stations also host local production companies and offers proof of the dynamic growth of the local industry and the innovative design of local producers. For more info, request a ShootBook from the FTC.

Tele LaCaye Gives Voice to Haitian Community

The Haitian television news magazine Tele Lacaye recently re-located to West Palm Beach from the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area in an effort to provide the program to a larger Haitian community. Currently the show is airing Saturdays 8:30-9:30pm and Mondays 7-8pm on Adelphia Cable Channel 44. Recent interviews have included the NBA"S Olden Polynice, Utah Jazz; Mario Ellie of the Phoenix Suns; Gabrielle Casseus, actor whose credits include Fallen with Denzel Washington and also Haitian Playboy models.

Not only does the show do interviews with celebs, provide weekly news and delve into Haitian history, but in a new segment, Jimmy Jacques, Executive Producer and his crew are opening the airwaves to give a voice to Haitian children. "We give them an opportunity to speak out on the issues that are constructing their daily lives," says Jacques. "We also provide parents an opportunity to hear what's happening with our youth."

Jacques and his partner, Assistant Producer Gilberte Jules, write, direct, edit and finance the show. The importance of their mission compels them to put up the funds to continue to spread positive messages about their community.

VISIT FLORIDA Responds to Commercial Concerns

The Governor's Office of Film & Entertainment worked with VISIT FLORIDA, a public-private organization which markets Florida tourism, on the issue of the production crew selection for a new commercial. The company, November Films of Santa Barbara, hired a Canadian director who in turn hired a Canadian crew to shoot this spot. However, the company has agreed to replace future crews with U.S. and Florida based crews where possible. VISIT FLORIDA funds will not be used to pay the fees or expenses of Canadian crew.