Variety's Texan of the Year honors individuals who exemplify what it means to be a Texan. But, having that Texas "spirit" is simply not enough. Honorees must have made a significant impact on the children of Texas either through Variety or by other means.
Past honorees of this award include:
- 2009 - Juli Mitchell, Sony Pictures Releasing
- 2008 - Thomas Stephenson, Jr., Rave Motion Pictures
- 2007 - Lee Roy Mitchell, Cinemark USA, Inc.
- 2006 - Wayne Lewellen, Paramount Pictures
- 2005 - Mark Gaines, Universal Pictures
- 2004 - Frank Liberto, Ricos Products Company
- 2003 - Chuck Viane, Buena Vista Pictures
This year's honoree, Mr. Steve Holmes, President and CEO of
Starplex Cinemas, is like many in this industry. He has years of experience serving in a multitude of capacities with companies of all sizes.
With more than 25 years of experience as a senior executive and founder of several companies, Steve has worked for the likes of Cinemark USA as their CFO, Cobblestone Golf and founded Silver Cinemas.
But what sets Steve apart from so many is his heart. Starplex's involvement with Variety has grown over the past few years. Why? Because Steve has had the opportunity to see firsthand what Variety is doing for children and their families in Texas.
At the 62nd Annual Golf Tournament, attendees were asked if anyone would like to support a child in Texas with a durable medical good to the tune of $2,500. Steve took the pledge much further by supporting a child each and every quarter.
Then, when asked to support Variety's recent
A Car for Caden program, Steve did more than any charity can hope. He took the program on personally. Assisting in making contact lists, opening up his theatres, sending out personal request letters and much more to ensure that Variety fulfills its goals in this particular campaign.
What is often telling about a person is their response to recognition by their peers. When notified of his recognition as Variety's Texan of the Year, Steve's response was, as expected, "Why me?"
Be on the lookout for more details coming very soon so that you can join us in answering Steve's question.
63rd Annual Golf Tournament &
