Jay Mark will speak to us on the fascinating journey of neon--from novelty to clutter to a newly appreciated artform in a span of less than a century. Motorized transportation, a national highway network, and a gas called neon converged at a propitious time in the early 20th century to become a unique communication tool that forever changed the American roadside landscape. Later, governments aggressively outlawed or discouraged its use, and now neon signs are recognized as an art form worth preserving. Jay teaches, writes and works in the fields of historic preservation, history museums, public transportation, urban planning and public policy. His passion for preservation has been recognized by many, including winning the Arizona Historical Society's Al Merito Award. After Jay speaks, Nathan Samoriski, AHS Collections Manager, will take us outside to view the Rose Bowl and Donofrio's signs, and tell us how the signs became the property of AHS.
The General Business Meeting starts at 10:00 AM. Purchase your lunch online by 5:00 PM on Thursday, March 3rd. Or reserve your place with Mary McMahon and pay by check or cash in person. Members with reservations are responsible for payment even if unable to attend.