Loveridge off

This just in, a press release from SIFF's Gary Tucker, Director of Marketing and Development:

"July 19, 2005 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Seattle, WA - Helen Loveridge, executive director of the Seattle International Film Festival Group (SIFF) since 2003, has resigned her position in order to return to her home in England. Under Loveridge's leadership, the 31st annual Festival concluded on June 12 to a rousing response from SIFF members, ticket-buyers, filmmakers and dignitaries alike.

"While we were surprised and saddened to hear of her decision, we couldn't be happier with the leadership, dedication and creativity Helen has shown with our beloved festival,"said SIFF board president Chris Gorley. "Helen and all of the SIFF staff have done a phenomenal job in generating excitement and ensuring the highest quality programming, resulting in unprecedented attendance at the Festival. We hope to find ways that Helen may continue to be connected to the SIFF organization."

Until an appropriate replacement is found, Deborah Person, past board president, Platinum Lifetime member, former SIFF staff member and now a member of the Board Emeritus for SIFF, has been named interim director of the organization, beginning immediately. Person will be responsible for carrying out the day-to-day management responsibilities of SIFF, including fundraising, community relations, staff and program oversight, and assistance to the board in a plan of action for finding Loveridge's replacement.

The Seattle International Film Festival Group (formerly Cinema Seattle) is a year-round non-profit organization that celebrates the culture and art of the moving image through filmmaking and film-going experiences of exceptional merit and diversity that inform, educate and entertain. In addition to the annual spring International Film Festival, the organization is active with educational film programming including Talking Pictures, The Screenwriters Salon and SIFF in the Schools. SIFF hosts special screenings throughout the year for its membership and the general public. The 32nd Seattle International Film Festival is scheduled for May 18 thru June 11, 2006."