This story might sound familiar to local residents, but what you might not know is that she achieved all of this after surviving a stage four breast cancer diagnosis in 2018. The mother of three stays very busy juggling her responsibilities, but she is always happy to offer advice to women getting into business. 
“The Lory started over a hundred years ago as a live theater and it inspired me to infuse some theatrical elements into how we exhibit first run films now. We make our own silly promotional videos and gloriously cheesy advertisements for local businesses. We are so proud of our staff who often have experience performing in dance, band or theater. They deserve the credit for the creative and fun experiences that we provide for each guest. That is really what sets us apart from other cinemas or watching movies at home. We have families who have been coming to The Lory for many generations. We feel a responsibility to be good stewards of this little piece of history and to do it in our own fun way.” 
Hillary’s husband Justin is immensely proud of her. “I’m just happy someone finally got wind of her expertise and experience and requested her to speak. I can guarantee that whatever time she is allotted, the knowledge she shares will be far more helpful logistically to another small company as opposed to some corporate big wig who has never laid it all on the line for a labor of love. Do those guys even know what sacrifice and hard work actually is? I can tell you that she does know, and can speak to that.” 
Cinema Con is being held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas Nevada from April 24th – 27th. Hillary has been asked to participate in a panel discussion on the subject of marketing with a limited budget, specifically focusing on the perspective of the small independent theaters like The Lory. Expect several headline flashing announcements to come from the big movie studios as they attempt to demonstrate a renewed commitment to the movie theaters in this modern world of streaming services and digital content. Fortunately for us here in Highland and surrounding area, the movies aren’t going anywhere. 
The Lory Theater has been in downtown Highland since 1912 at 810 Main Street. Showtimes can be found via their website: www.thelorytheater.com 
Or by calling the showtime hotline at 618-882-4977.