Famous News (Jan 1981)

George Destounis Pioneer of the Year @ Famous Players President George P. Destounis was honoured as ‘*Pioneer of the Year’’ at the Canadian Picture Pioneers Annual Awards Dinner and Dance held Nov. 24 at the Four Seasons Hotel, Toronto. The Honourable John B. Aird, Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario and a former chairman of Famous Players Limited Executive Committee, presented the award to Mr. Destounis in recognition of his long and distinguished service to the Canadian film industry. In presenting the award to him, the Lieutenant-Governor said, ‘‘of all the phrases used to describe George, I think the one that would matter most to him, and certainly matters most to me, is that he is described as a ‘truly great Canadian’, which he is.”’ Deeply moved by this very special recognition, Mr. Destounis thanked the over 500 people in attendance drawing particular attention to all his out-of-town friends and supporters. ‘‘Your presence adds to the evening,”’ he said, ‘‘and I appreciate A He also added, with tongue in cheek, that the marvelous turnout must be due to the large staff at Famous Players. He went on to praise the benevolent work of the Pioneers and to thank the men of the Organization who, ‘‘dedicate themselves, their time, their energy and their out-of-pocket expenses’’ to its betterment. The ‘‘Pioneer of the Year’’ award represents Mr. Destounis’ most recent in a long list of honours. In 1972, he was appointed to Canada’s Advisory Committee on Film. In 1973, he received aHumanitarian Award from the Canadian Council of Christians and Jews and in 1980, he was honoured as the first recipient of the Genie Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Canadian Film Industry. continued on page 22 George Destounis is presented with 1980 award by John B. Aird Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario. Annual Dinner in Toronto a perfect evening! Premiere Issue, January 1981 21