As a reflectionof philanthropy many arthouse film theatres might envy, the Rafael Film Centrein northern California has changed its name to the Christopher B Smith RafaelFilm Centre to honour donations of $2.5m from benefactor Smith.

Smith hails from a family of philanthropists andentrepreneurs and is a long-time supporter of the centre, which is owned andrun by the non-profit California Film Institute (CFI). He joined the CFI boardof directors in 2001.

The recentlyrestored arthouse centre in San Rafael houses a year-round, three-screencinematheque and will officially change its name in April to coincide with itsfourth anniversary.

'TheRafael is singularly responsible for revitalising the city of San Rafael andwith the unique generosity of Chris Smith, the organization heads into the newcentury fortified by his backing and our shared vision of creating a truecultural center devoted to cinema,' Mark Fishkin, the centre'sfounder and executive director, said in a statement.

'TheRafael provides exhibition for many talented film-makers whose work might neverhave been seen,' Smith said.

'I amproud to have the opportunity to support an organisation with this singularvision that can act as an incredible artistic exhibition venue and a forum forcommunity involvement and discussion.'