Class of 1996 Project:

Promotional Video “MB … In the Spotlight

An ultimate challenge was accomplished by an incredible team effort made by the 1996 Leadership class. Admittedly, there were some doubts as to the feasibility of tackling a project with an estimated $10,000 price tag and a limited time frame to accomplish. In spite of unforeseen obstacles, the dauntless 1996 class succeeded in effectively producing a promotional video, aptly titled “Manhattan Beach… In the Spotlight”.

From the inception of the project, committees were organized which included:

• fundraising
• video production
• script writing
• stock footage research
• public relations
• project planning

The script evolved from a vision to portray the many attractions our community of Manhattan Beach offers: excellent schools, renown restaurants, a variety of recreational activities, as well as a cultural and commercial opportunities, all available in a safe, “small town” setting close to the large metropolis of Los Angeles.

A variety of resources were explored to determine how to obtain advisory and technical assistance. The class wrote the script, hired a production manager/director, a camera operator, narrators, and had original music composed to complete the unique project. Class members assisted with shooting and several members’ cameo shots add a special touch to the celebration of our teamwork.

Always mindful of budgetary constraints, the class continued to canvas the community in search of financial support. More than $9,000 was raised thanks to numerous contributions from corporate and local sponsors. Copies of the video were shared with sponsors and additional copies may be purchased for $5.00 at the Chamber of Commerce.

And so… the Leadership Manhattan Beach class of 1996 takes a final bow, still glowing in the memories of our “Spotlight” creation. We have the satisfaction of knowing we provided the community with a product that promotes the best Manhattan Beach has to offer. Equally important are the knowledge and experience we acquired working with people of diverse ages and backgrounds and from taking on different leadership roles. We express our heartfelt thanks to our advisor, Le Roy Nelson, and our facilitator, Paul Alman, and to the Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce for having made it all possible.

Class Members:
Mira Costa High School Juniors:
Dana Blanchard, Sara Briseno, Cherie Dawson, Nada El Sawy, Dan Elder, Fernando Hernandez, Nicole Patten, Anna Sarnoff, Nicole Sessions, and Matt Smart

Adults:
Cathey Amberry, Mike Bailey, David Doyle, Joe Drnek, Elizabeth Flammini, Pamela Farber, Christy Gronseth, Laurie Johnson, Kathryn Lourtie, William McLaughlin, Tuan Nguyen, Lynn Rosiak, and Paula Sarcona

Employers Represented:
South Bay Medical Center, Chevron, City of Manhattan Beach, Westcoast Land Co. Inc., Orange County Water District, TRW Space and Electronics, Los Angeles Unified School District, Computers at Work, Juice Club, Los Angeles Air Force Base, and FHP Health Care.