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Dear Jason: We bopped until we dropped and we hula-hooped until we were pooped on May 31st as we reeled back in time to honor the movie American Graffiti on the 35th anniversary of its release. The attendance and enthusiasm exceeded our wildest expectations. The presentations, the concert, and the movie were all very well received. J Street in downtown Modesto was stocked with classic cars and new cars, Elvis and Marilyn were in the house, and spectators were all anxious to be touched with a bit of Lucas dust. Inside the historic State Theatre, attendees experienced a non-stop program of guest speakers, celebrities, and local personalities, as well as talented singers and musicians, who have been a part of, or have been inspired by, the Graffiti experience. Our success this year was entirely due to your efforts, as well as the support of so many individuals and organizations within our community. I want to personally thank you for taking over the website and making it jump and jive. It made a huge difference. A project like this requires time, money, commitment, and community involvement. Without your support, the selfless work of our many volunteers would not have been nearly as productive or successful. The success of this event provided further proof that there is indeed interest in establishing a "Graffiti/Lucas Museum of Modesto"; an initiative that would be an outstanding addition to our local heritage and tourism industry. On behalf of the organizing committee, I would like to thank you again for your support. When George Lucas asked, "Where were you in '62," he was talking about only one place. His home town of Modesto. And when Harrison Ford sang "Some Enchanted Evening," he was singing about hot summer nights cruising in Modesto, not Petaluma or Reno. The Graffiti spirit continues to live in Modesto. Thanks to you. Sincerely, Ken White Graffiti Tribute Organizing Committee |