1. Nobody out here knows how the hell to drive. NObody signals ANYthing, they just go where they want according to their whims. And, if you think NY'ers are bad about talking on the cell and texting, you haven't seen anything.
2. What kind of a dopey city is it when you can't get your car washed after 6 pm on a Friday? I'm serious, I went to 8 car washes, and each one of them closed at 6 pm. How are you supposed to get your car washed if you work? I finally got it washed earlier today.
3. $4 for a coke in the hotel coffee shop. $4. Really?
Okay, now that we've gotten that out of the way, on to the day's activities!
The day began with a caravan of cars out to Tarzana for the unveiling of the Superman plaque. I thought there were about 100 of us there, but I could be off by a few, I'd guess it was between 80 and 100. It was sunny and hot in Tarzana, but nobody seemed to mind, as this was the culmination of a three year quest to have this plaque made and installed. For those who've forgotten, this location was used in the episode "The Man Who Could Read Minds", and it was on this spot that George Reeves, Noel Neill, Jack Larson, John Hamilton, and Robert Shayne were filmed. Here's the plaque before the unveiling:
After the plaque ceremony was over, we headed back to the Beverly Garland Hotel for our luncheon. Jim Nolt, who arranged the celebration weekend, put together a great program for us, and we had some great guests and speakers. Among those who spoke were Bruce Dettman, who is a close friend with Phyllis Coates; Larry Ward, Noel Neill's manager; Stephanie Shayne, Laura Siegel, Ruta Lee (she appeared in one episode), Beverly Washburn, Gene LeBell, and of course, Jack Larson. There was a display of Superman/George collectibles that fans had brought, and all of us received a beautiful commemorative coin.
At the luncheon, I got to meet, and speak with Gene, Beverly, and Jack. Talk about exciting! All were so gracious and friendly, and I think, a little in awe that their work on this show, so long ago, meant so much to so many people. Very cool. Here's Gene LeBell and I hamming it up:
After the luncheon, many of us met at the hotel bar, and spent the next several hours sharing stories and thoughts about TAOS and the weekend. We were joined by Greg Moffett, who, as a young child, co-starred in the episode "The Stolen Elephant". Hearing from people who worked with, and knew George, was special for all of us who are fans of his and who believe his work deserves to be remembered and celebrated. Each person who spoke of George used several key words; Generous; Loyal; Honest; Funny; Dedicated; Hard working; Caring; Charitable.
Sunday morning, about 30 of us car pooled over to Pasadena, and went on a tour of the Pasadena Playhouse. Known as the State Theater of California, this is where George trained as an actor before breaking into the movies. Here is George's nameplate, in the 'Hall of Members' of the Playhouse:
Founded in the early 1920's, the Playhouse trained many of America's finest actors, and was a college level educational facility until the late 1970's. As more universities added dramatic arts programs, the Playhouse began having financial issues, and was closed for close to 20 years. Happily, things have gotten better, and while the Playhouse no longer has an acting school as part of it's operation, it still functions as a performing arts center, presenting plays, recitals, movies, and other cultural events throughout the year. While at the Playhouse, I got to meet and speak with Laura Siegel and Stephanie Shayne, both of them were so happy to meet all of us.
After the tour, there was a final group photo taken, and the goodbyes started as our happy little band went in different directions. Some went back to the hotel to pack and check out, others planned to car pool up to Benedict Canyon Drive to see George's home, and some went off to lunch.
As for me, I got in the car, found the 215 East and started the long trip home. The weekend was all I had hoped it would be, a celebration of an iconic character, a long ago television show, and some very talented individuals, all of whom had a great influence on so many young children for well over 60 years.
Events, and opportunities like this come along only so often, and once they're done, there's no 'reruns'; you miss it, you regret it. I am lucky enough to be able to attend events like this because some very special people in my life understand my quirkiness. My sister Ginny happily took in little Molly this week so we didn't have to worry about her while I was away and Karen was staying with her Mom; thanks Sis, you are the best! And Karen, who encourages me and supports me in those things that are important to me, she always says "GO". She is an amazing person, and I am blessed to have her in my life.
Now......what's next?
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