LINCOLN- On Thursday, the Legislature's Revenue Committee heard testimony from a handful of independent filmmakers and actors who emphasized the importance of the film industry, and the tourism it would bring to Nebraska. Stacy Heatherly, film commissioner for the Eastern Nebraska Film Office, told the committee that creating a stable budget for the office and its independent partners could be a first step in expanding the industry.

Ishma Yusaf Valenti, a teacher of 19 years, said the legislative resolution could positively impact the youth of Nebraska as well, who, right now, believe that the only places to pursue such a career are in Hollywood or New York. Valenti told the committee that he wanted to change that, and turn Nebraska into a place where the film industry can flourish and give up-and-coming actors the ability to hone their craft in their home state.

"Really, that's all you can ask for as a teacher is when you can find a student that's able to be fulfilled by something that makes them truly happy," said Valenti. He added that film work in Nebraska could help youth in the state find their purpose. "We're not just positively impacting the state," he said, "We're also...keeping the talent of our young people in Nebraska..."

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