BURBANK - Ascent Media, Laser Pacific, Modern VideoFilm and STE have come together to establish a benefit fund for long-time post production veteran Sam Holtz, who recently suffered a heart attack.
Holtz has contributed a lifetime of service to organizations such as STE, SMPTE, AES, HPA, AMPTP, ITS and DCS. In 1988, he was instrumental in eliminating the California sales tax previously paid by producers for production and post production services. In 1992, Holtz played a pivotal role in the significant reduction of property taxes paid by all production and post production facilities within Los Angeles County. Then in 2000, he led the industry to gain the 5 percent tax credit given to facilities for equipment purchased in the transition from analog to digital. Tax savings on one HD VTR, for example, is about $5,000.
The collective is seeking donations to benefit Holtz's rehabilitation, which has incurred substantial costs. He is currently recuperating at home and is undergoing physical therapy to regain his ability to walk, which may take several more months.
Those interested in helping to offset his family's expenses can make a donation to:
Sam Holtz
C/O Modern VideoFilm
4411 W. Olive Ave
Burbank, CA 91505
Checks should be made payable to Sam Holtz.