Digital Projection International (DPI), an Emmy® Award-winning manufacturer of high-performance projection systems, and Ballantyne of Omaha, Inc. (OTC BB: BTNE), a leading manufacturer and distributor
of motion picture projection and specialty lighting equipment, today announced the
creation of the Ballantyne Strong Digital Division and the naming of Larry Jacobson
as Vice President. This announcement dovetails with Ballantyne’s recent agreement
in principal with Digital Projection International (DPI) to sell, distribute
and service DPI’s Digital Projection Cinema-branded products. Mr. Jacobson
played an instrumental role in developing and negotiating the terms of Ballantyne’s
and DPI’s relationship.Prior to joining Ballantyne, Mr. Jacobson was a consultant
in the theater design, construction and equipment industry. Prior to
that, he spent 20 years at American Multi Cinema Inc. (AMC), most recently serving
as Senior Vice President of Design, Development and Facilities. At AMC, Mr.
Jacobson oversaw the design and construction of theaters and existing theater rehabilitation,
as well as major research and development projects concerning motion picture technology
and theater construction. He has received numerous accolades for his accomplishments
in motion picture technology and the theater industry, including the 1998 Technical
Achievement Award from the Motion Picture Academy of Arts and Sciences and the Medal
of Honor For Outstanding Achievement from NATO and Exhibition. In addition,
he has secured several U.S. patents for key theater technology designs such as the
“Cup Holder Arm Rest” for theater seats and certain theater speaker designs.
“We are thrilled to unveil the Ballantyne Strong Digital Division, which oversees
all of our digital projection activities under our DPI relationship. Creating
a focused division under Larry’s lead should facilitate a fluid marriage of DPI’s
innovative, digital technology with Ballantyne’s industry expertise and recognized
market position,” stated John Wilmers, President and CEO of Ballantyne of Omaha,
Inc. “I am proud to secure the talents of Larry Jacobson to head this business
unit. With his theater technology expertise and outstanding accomplishments
in the theater industry both as a consultant and as an exhibitor, Larry has been
able to hit the ground running and make a tremendous contribution to this important
growth opportunity.
Based on our work together so far, I am confident Larry understands the needs
of our customers and is the right person to lead our digital effort.” Commenting
on his appointment, Mr. Jacobson said: “Ballantyne is in a unique and exciting position
to launch its expansion into digital projection, and I’m happy to have the opportunity
to join a company of such strong standing. I am confident we will transform
Ballantyne Strong into a powerful presence in the innovative and growing digital
cinema space.”
