The Lanterman Historical Museum Foundation Board of Directors hosted their members at the organization’s Volunteer Appreciation Tea on Sunday at the Lanterman House in La Canada Flintridge.
This year’s event honored retiring, long-time LCF City Manager Mark Alexander in recognition of his over 30 years of support and dedication to acquiring, preserving and maintaining the historic home (built in 1915) of the Lanterman family.
After welcoming all in attendance, Laura Verlaque, Foundation executive director, showed a short video highlighting the many events and accomplishments of the past year. A high point was a local 3rd-grade class learning the Charleston dance at the conclusion of their tour of the Lanterman House. A tour of the house is part of the local elementary schools’ history curriculum.
In his introductory remarks, LCF Mayor Keith Eich noted how much he enjoyed working with Alexander over the last three years, both as a City Council member and as mayor. Eich noted the tremendous value of Alexander’s leadership to the current and previous City Councils.
Foundation Board President Mary Lou Langedyke presented Alexander with a copy of the original sheet music for the USC alma mater, “All Hail,” arranged by Frank Lanterman in 1923. While thanking those present, Alexander said he had the privilege of playing the Wurlitzer organ that was installed at the Lanterman home by brothers Frank and Lloyd Lanterman. The organ now resides at the El Capitan Theater in Los Angeles.
Recognized for their long-time service were retiring Lanterman House Foundation board members, Peter Breckheimer, Christy Schober and Joe Thompson. Each received beautiful
ceramic thank you gifts crafted by Lanterman archivist Julie Yamashita.
The family of founding board member Ann Neilsen accepted her gift posthumously.
All those in attendance received a potted rosemary plant in appreciation for continuously supporting the work of the museum. Among those in attendance included, Carol Liu, former LCF mayor and state senator; Pat Anderson , executive director of the LCF Chamber of Commerce; Patrick DeChellis, director of the city of LCF Public Works; and John Newcombe, historical documentary filmmaker.
Refreshments were furnished by Robert Moses, Lanterman House facilities manager.
The Lanterman House, located at 4420 Encinas Drive in LCF, is open for house tours and community events throughout the year. For more information, call 818-790-1421 or visit lantermanhouse.org.
First published in the March 9 print issue of the Outlook Valley Sun.
