On Saturday, June 2nd, the Catalina Island Museum hosted it's 20th Annual Silent Film Benefit, honoring the Island's colorful history as one of Hollywood's favorite locations.

In celebration of the 20th Anniversary, Avalon's own Robert Salisbury returned to accompany the feature film and the audience was thrilled to once again hear Salisbury's rendition of Avalon.  After retiring from the event 3 years ago, Salisbury was enthused to return and accompany the classic 1927 romantic comedy It, starring Clara Bow.  Joining him this year at the organ was Jim Spohn, the theatre organ restorationist who has taken on the task of maintaining the Avalon Theatre's Page Organ for over 25 years.  Spohn brought a Charlie Chaplin short to kick off the program and accompanied it himself. 

Over 350 people participated in the 20th Anniversary of this annual benefit, raising over $30,000 to support the Catalina Island Museum's efforts to preserve and share Catalina's unique cultural heritage.  "We were thrilled to welcome back Bob Salisbury and introduce Jim Spohn to our audience.  We enjoy celebrating such a unique and fun part of our heritage," said the museum's Executive Director Stacey Otte.  "We're very grateful to our sponsors, VIPs and volunteers for their donations which support our mission to preserve Catalina history."
 
The Museum would like to thank everyone who made this event possible especially our VIPs and event sponsors: Rusack Vineyards, Catalina Express, Connolly Pacific Co., UBS Financial Services, the Santa Catalina Island Company, Avalon Rotary, and Gecko Yacht Charters.  They also wish to thank emcee Ron Doutt, Mayor Bob Kennedy, Karen Baker and the Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel, and the Avalon Theatre staff, along with all of the volunteers who donated their time, energy and talent to make this event a success.  Finally they wish to thank everyone who attended the event, and hope to see you again next year.

For more information visit www.CatalinaMuseum.org