WINSTON-SALEM | Development Guide

[DCMetroWinston]

Because I am in a trolling mood, here is the latest think piece from Algernon Cash:

Opinion | Winston-Salem has everything needed to become a film destination — except one thing

By Algenon Cash

Economic development is often measured by the factories a community recruits, the corporate headquarters it lands or the next billion-dollar investment announced with elected officials standing behind ceremonial shovels.

Film production rarely enters that conversation.

It should.

A film production does more than create entertainment. It creates jobs for electricians, carpenters, caterers, truck drivers, security personnel, accountants, hotel workers and countless others. Crews rent vehicles, book hotel rooms, eat in local restaurants and spend money throughout communities that otherwise might never experience that level of private investment.

Film is more than culture. It is commerce.

I recently spoke with Rebecca Mills, executive director of the Piedmont Triad Film Commission, after North Carolina lawmakers approved changes to the state’s film incentive program. While she welcomed the legislation as a step forward, she said it still leaves much of the state at a competitive disadvantage when trying to attract larger productions.

Her concern is not that Charlotte or Wilmington should receive fewer opportunities. Instead, she argues that Winston-Salem, Greensboro and many rural communities deserve a stronger chance to compete.

“It’s business,” Mills said. “It’s big, big business, and it creates well-paying jobs.”

https://wschronicle.com/business/opinion...ome-a-film-destination-except-one-thing/