About

Film Commissioner

As the Regional Film Commissioner, Sabrina Jurisich is committed to supporting both out-of-town and local filmmakers while working to stimulate the local economy through the business of film production. “Our area provides an abundance of resources in a close proximity,” states Jurisich, “combined with low to no cost permits and an area known for hospitality, Upstate California provides a great backdrop for all kinds of productions.”

We look forward to welcoming your team to the place we call home.

Why Film Matters

As one of the top industries in the state, the film industry provides jobs – and lots of them! In 2021, California estimated 860,000 jobs related to film production throughout the state. There is no doubt that the industry is putting a lot of people to work! Throughout the state of California, production is surpassing pre-COVID levels. In fact, a recent report listed the film and television industry as the second highest economic driver in the State of California between agriculture (#1) and travel and tourism (#3). Another report released by the California Film Commission reveals that the California Tax Credit program is performing with a return of $24 for every $1 invested. There is no doubt that the film industry is thriving in California, and we are thankful for the increased opportunities to work with incredible filmmakers to help facilitate local jobs and to bolster our local economy as a result of the incredible economic impact from productions choosing our region as a filming destination. For more information on our activities, visit our News and Reports page.

Visitor Guides

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Board Members

Joy Thayer

President (Oklahoma)

Joy co-owns the award-winning production companies SperoPictures and Sawyer. Along with her husband, Matthew, they have been part of100’s of corporate & commercial projects, feature films, television show, and have been recognized for their unique storytelling abilities and powerfully transformative content. A few clients include the BBC, Verizon, Cisco, HP, UC Davis Medical Center, CNN, and so much more.

David Shapiro

Vice President (Marina Del Rey, CA)

David Shapiro came from New York to LA in 1976 after studying at the University of MD. He toured California and visited iconic locations from southern California beaches to the majestic Mt Shasta. After falling in love with the state, he continued his education at Pepperdine University and received a degree in Marketing/Business Administration. He began working in the aerospace industry and was responsible for bringing The Electric Blackboard to this country. For the last 35 years, he has been publishing the CREATIVE HANDBOOK for television, movie and event planners throughout California. The Handbook is distributed to industry professionals by direct mail, at trade shows, and location shoots. Dave believes that film commissioners are the best liaisons the industry has for permitting needs and to aid in seamless production activities.

Janet Shields

Secretary (Shasta County, CA)

Janet currently works as the Major Donor Officer for the Good News Rescue Mission. She has worked in the non-profit sector for 15 years and has extensive knowledge in fundraising, event planning, and brings a lot of fun to every occasion.

Barb Sumerlin

Treasurer (Shasta County, CA)

Barb Sumerlin is retired from the legal field, after a 20 year career as a certified paralegal in Washington State with experience as a case manager, preparing/filing of legal documents, professional representative for both clients and her attorneys. She has volunteered with local food banks and homeless shelters. Since moving to Northern California in 2019, Barb has volunteered as a site manager and as a Shasta County volunteer events coordinator. She has knowledge in event planning, organizational skills, professionalism and brings a willingness to serve the Commission as well as local and in-bound projects and productions. She believes continued growth of the Commission creates local jobs, increases tourism and has a positive economical impact on our communities.

Gregory Harrison

Member

“Cinema is a passion of Gregory Harrison. As a film aficionado, Mr. Harrison has extensive knowledge of, and appreciation in, the art of filmmaking; his dedication allowed him to: become a juror for multiple film festivals; work close with multiple film liaisons & commissions, and; was most recently added as a board member with the Upstate California Film Commission.

As a security advisor working in entertainment, he combines his love for the creative industry, with his proficiency in operational security & tactics, and intelligence collection developed from his military background.

Mr. Harrison attributes his expertise and precision from his military experience now offered privately through his company, Gibraltar Security Services, highlighted by his company’s team of elite veterans for ensuring top-tier security services exclusively for music, motion picture and television while underscoring the military background of security specialists “From Boots to Suits,” promoting their discipline and professionalism when securing Hollywood’s assets.

Mr. Harrison also commemorates significant military & veteran anniversaries, emphasizing the importance of never forgetting and philanthropically supporting various veterans organizations near and dear to him.”