Put PilotGirl Productions to Work

With so many dozens of production companies in the Capital Region it's becoming increasingly difficult to stand out from the crowd. Combine that with an ongoing recession, PilotGirl Productions is really feeling the pinch this winter. I loathe the drive to NYC every week and parking my car in worrisome places and asking friends to take me in but it's the only way to make a buck.

But Empire State Film Production Credit program in NYC increases work for all. It gives refundable film production tax credit of 30 percent for big tv series like Fringe, Gossip Girl and Law and Order. And, the Made in New York Incentive Program provides an additional 5 percent tax credit for qualified productions shot in New York City. Benefits include free permits in all five boroughs, a concierge service, hotel discounts and no charge for police.

Despite the unions, traffic and permit obligations, New York City has paved the way for smoother shoots for television hits that were once shot in Hollywood and Toronto.

Now, if the Capital Region could do the same (we need several SALT-like films a year), our local crew base and production services could easily provide.