ARC Update Summer 2009

by: Martha and Sol Sigall, Vice President, Archives

THE ARC HOSTS SPECIAL VISITORS & EVENTS

A very welcome and surprise guest was Culver City’s former Director of Parks and Recreation, Syd Kronenthal, who came with CCHS member Ross Hawkins. President Stu Freeman and Julie Lugo Cerra had the pleasure to greet him and hear his favorable comments. Due to Syd’s formidable efforts through the years, our Society has acquired many important memorabilia and artifacts.

Sonny and Pat Clapp, who just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, visited the ARC recently. Pat, a founding member, modeled an MGM costume in one of our early fashion shows.

Paul Pitti, a long-time CC resident and CCHS member stops by the ARC often. He always has interesting stories to share about the Pitti family and their connection to Buffalo Bill Cody’s Wild West Show.

We had a special opening of the ARC on June 20th for the 40th reunion of the Culver High Class of 1969, and will open for student guests from our Sister City of Kaizuka, Japan on July 28th. It’s always such a pleasure to have these special visits.

BOOK-SIGNING FOR NEW BOOK ON DIRECTOR VICTOR FLEMING

We had a full house recently for a book signing by Michael Sragow, movie critic for the Baltimore Sun, who wrote the book, “Victor Fleming: An American Master.” It was so interesting to learn about the accomplishments of the well-known director, who directed Gone With The Wind and Wizard of Oz.

He also showed an amazing 1919 clip of Fleming’s directorial debut – which was filled with unique and early special effects! Joining him were Mickey Kuhn and Patrick Curtis, who appeared in GWTW when they were very, very young. Sally Fleming, one of Victor Fleming’s daughters, was also a special guest. A very lively Q&A session followed.

Those of you who were there could attest to the enjoyment of that afternoon On June 22nd , the CC City Council was scheduled to take action on Historic Preservation programs. We will discuss this more at the Picnic meeting.

As you know, the ARC is open on the first and third Saturdays of each month, and by appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon – and, if you have some time to give, we need volunteers to sort and catalog our many treasures.

NOTE: The ARC will be open for visitors following the July 15th Picnic/Meeting – but, remember, NO FOOD allowed!!!

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