Name: Jay M. Self

Occupation: Tourism and Film Services Director

How long have you been in Savannah? 13 years

Children’s names: Olivia, 11, and Emily, 9

Q: Tell us something people in Savannah probably don’t know about you.

A: I am not a big movie buff.  I am fascinated with the creative process and enjoy being a part of the complex task of transforming an idea into a viable media project.  However, while others are crying or yelling “Watch out!”, I am wondering where they parked the grip truck.  It takes a special film to keep my interest.    

Q: What’s your current passion?

A: Time with my kids.
 

Q: What is Savannah’s best-kept secret?

A: Our local filmmakers and production companies.  We have a wealth of local talent that needs nurturing and investment if they are to stay in Savannah.  A viable local production community will bring ongoing benefits.  Out-of-town “transient” projects are great, but locally produced “indigenous” productions such as Farmers Almanac Television leave more than a one-time cash infusion.    

And the Starland Café.
 

Q: If you could change/improve one thing about Savannah, what would it be?

A: The community perception of public education and subsequent apathy.  Focus tends toward acute negative events, but it should be on the consistent successes of schools like Marshpoint Elementary, Oglethorpe Charter School  and Savannah Arts Academy.  Applying the successful principles of these throughout the district should be a priority for our community.  Good public education reduces poverty and crime.  

Q: What major change do you foresee for Savannah in the next 20 years?

A: Savannah is fertile ground for progress in many areas.  This is especially true for the media arts, which could contribute greatly to our future economy.

We must be mindful of why people love Savannah.  Our downtown is the engine that drives the arts, tourism and our economy.  It is so much more than architecture.  It is ambiance, scale, quality of life and pace.  It is alive.  We must protect what makes us unique among American cities through thoughtful, long-term planning through efforts like the downtown master plan.  Pressure to exploit this resource for short-term gain will continue to increase.  We must protect it.

Q: What one word best describes you?

A: Curious.
 

Q: At this moment, what would be found on your nightstand/bedside table?

A: A lamp, 1981 GE clock radio set to 91.1 and a translation of the “Majjhima Nikaya.”

Q: What one thing have you always wanted to do but haven’t done yet?

A: Take my kids to Africa.