Film Festival Boards

Gig Harbor Film Festival Advisory Board 
A.J. Witherspoon, General Manager
Galaxy Theatre Uptown

Robert Marshall Wells, Asst. Professor of Communication &
MediaLab Faculty Advisor
Pacific Lutheran University

Joyce Schultz, Seniors Club Coordinator
Boys and Girls Club Gig Harbor

Steve Lynn, Owner
Water to Wine

George LeMasurier, Publisher
The Peninsula Gateway Newspaper

John Hogan, Managing Partner
UPTOWN Gig Harbor

Evie Lynn, Managing Partner,
Gateway Capital, Gig Harbor, WA.

David H. DePatie
Producer for Film and Television
Academy Award 1964, Pink Panther Animated Series

Dean Wilson, President 

The GHFF is a unique opportunity to become involved with cinema more as a “participant” instead of just being another member of the audience. I believe the GHFF will be of great benefit to the community by expanding awareness of the cinematic arts, especially in building interest among youth for the many aspects of cinema. My background in grant writing and non-profit organizations are the skills I bring to GHFF and it’s been great to be part of a fledgling, but very promising organizational team with both the aspirations and inspirations to pull off a great event.

Betty Felker, Vice President 

I feel it is very timely to have the film festival as part of the culture of the growing community. There are many enriching films being made by young artists that can educate on world issues, environment and issues involving youth and families. Gig Harbor is growing and ready for an exciting new venue in our community. It will provide venues for learning and education in interesting subjects, opportunities for families to view films together and have good family discussions, and a new venue for creative projects to be shared by community members.

Loa Andersen, Acting Secretary 
I have been so fortunate to have ‘landed’ in Gig Harbor after wandering the world for so many years. I love the folks here…they are friendly, culturally diverse, and quite an adventurous group of people. Being involved with the GHFF is a chance for me to become more involved as well as to give back to this vibrant community. To paraphrase Lena LaMont (Singin’ in the Rain), GHFF has brought “ joy into my hum-drum life” I’m excited to be a part of this dynamic program.

Angie Picchi, Treasurer 

I have always been involved in volunteering and taking an active part in a worthwhile project. The Gig Harbor Film Festival fits perfectly in my life style giving me the opportunity for enjoying film, people and my community.

Marty Thacker, Executive Director & Board Member 

To be involved in the Gig Harbor Film Festival has given me the opportunity to show the love, care and beauty of our community. Not only for those of us fortunate to live here but for the tourist and our neighbors of Puget Sound. Gig Harbor is an enclave within a harbor that offers friendly smiles, cultural arts, boating, and all that makes our fishing town hum with love. I've had the opportunity to meet and speak with many filmmakers. They hear and learn quickly the care, appreciation and positive support that their films will be given. How exciting for them to learn their treasured work will be seen on a high tech, award winning, 10 screen Galaxy Theatre and appreciated by an articulate, intelligent, sophisticated community of film-enthusiasts. Each will have a chance, first hand, to view our beautiful town, enjoy those friendly smiles and warm handshakes. Now I ask? What more can a film festival ask? It takes a Harbor.... The Gig Harbor Film Festival...It does encompass me!! 'The Reel Gig....where the Harbor meets Hollywood'

Karen Ashton, Director 

Marilyn Owel, Board Member Emeritus 

What does the GHFF mean to you?
It means to me that Gig Harbor Film Festival is a gift to our community - and, the community is a gift to the Gig Harbor Film Festival.

What inspired you to become involved with the GHFF?
Theatre and music was great entertainment since Biblical times. We had theatre and music. We had actors, writers, musicians. However, a visionary brought them together with the technical people and a camera and the film industry was born. The first film industry was developed in the United States. The United States film industry added a great deal to our country.

What do you think GHFF will do for the community?
A film festival gives us entertainment, education, relaxation. The Gig Harbor Film Festival is a total part of our community. They are our volunteers. Our local community citizens are a part of the Gig Harbor Film Festival.

Patty Jackson, Board Member 
I am excited be part of the Gig Harbor Film Festival Board of Directors. Our beautiful landscape and the warm and welcoming ways of our residents make Gig Harbor the perfect venue for the festival. Throughout my life I have been an avid movie-goer. Films take you on a journey while never having to leave your seat. They tell great stories, make us laugh and cry, and often teach us important lessons. The GHFF will enhance our community both culturally and economically. So, if you haven’t joined us, yet…please plan to attend our Festival this year!

Richard P. Patrick, Board Member 

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