Jack Bommarito – President
President’s Message
It has been a great summer here in beautiful Culver City; at the Historical Society, we’ve had several exciting events.
In late May, staff and volunteers participated in our Costume Day. Valerie Meyer, our Costumes Chairperson, spearheaded this event that provided a complete picture of our costume collection. A number of costumes have been worn onscreen by actors such as Gene Kelly, Doris Day, and Barbara Stanwyck. Costumes were examined, photographed, catalogued, and boxed for proper preservation.
Our July program, “The Wizard of MGM” by author Robert Welch, was very popular. After hearing the presentation, many attendees purchased Robert’s book about his grandfather, Arnold “Buddy” Gillespie, MGM’s Head of Special Effects. Thanks to Mark Morris, V.P. of Programs, for coordinating this event.
In late July, people enjoyed Culver City’s Movies in the Park, with our own Hope Parrish dressed as the Wicked Witch of the West.
We wrapped up summer activities in August with Culver City’s annual Fiesta La Ballona celebration. We hosted a stream of visitors during Fiesta weekend with a display of Fiesta costumes and T-shirts in the Museum.
The Historical Society has new volunteers joining our team with backgrounds in library science, film history, and art history. Additionally, we welcome our new student interns from Culver City High School, thanks to Ms. Adrienne Madrid, Career Counselor.
In September, the Museum extended its hours; it’s now open 12-3pm the first through fourth Sundays. If you want to volunteer, please contact Jack Bommarito or Museum VP Maureen Fleming.
We look forward to seeing you at our October 28th program, which should get you in the Halloween spirit!
— Jack Bommarito