Babcock Theater Public Meeting set for July 29 at the David A. Howe Public Library

The dynamic Ray McClure, born in 1926, will be a featured speaker

By Kathryn Ross

WELLSVILLE – The public is invited to attend the next meeting of the Babcock Movie Theater Preservation Society at 6 p.m., Tuesday, July 29^th, at the David A. Howe Public Library.

The meeting will feature a speaker. Learn more about the history of the iconic Main Street building when World War II veteran Ray McClure, 99, recalls his time working there before the war. McClure worked at the movie theater after it was purchased by Hollywood producer and studio mogul Jack Warner of Warner Brothers Studio in the 1930s. Warner was one of the founders of the Warner Brothers Studio which produced the first ‘talkie’ movie – “The Jazz Singer.” The Warner Brothers logo is still part of the theater’s decor.

At the meeting those in attendance will be updated on what is happening at the theater. The Babcock Movie Theater Preservation Society has recently received its 501(C)3 not-for-profit status. Its Reel pulled pork dinner fundraiser in June was also successful. Its float in the Balloon Rally Parade was a crowd favorite, and its booth at the Main Street Festival the public enjoyed watching a video tour of the theater.

Upcoming projects such as grant applications and the status of the marquee and 1940s era popcorn machine; t-shirt sales, website and Facebook page and future fundraising efforts will also be discussed.

Those wishing to help with the effort to renovate and revive the old Babcock movie theater, are urged to attend as well as any new people who are interested in this project. Look for The Babcock Movie Theatre Preservation Society on Facebook for more information.