By Peter Culos
On 5 December, 2024, Debbie and I had the honor and pleasure to attend the annual George Washington Council Dinner at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia, and represent the Artist Preservation Group. The invitation came as a “thank you” for our latest effort to fund the conservation of the 2nd New Hampshire flag as well as all of our previous support. What a night it was!
The evening started with a cocktail reception outside of the Alan B. Miller Tent Theater. Kristian Smith, Director of Development, Institutional Giving, and Government Affairs was there to greet us on our arrival. She graciously introduced us to some of the other guests and donors. Kristian is very well versed in what we do as the APG and how we raise money. Scott Stephenson, Museum President and CEO, also went out of his way to have a chat and thank us for the APG’s support. Color me impressed.
Afterwards, the was a program in the Tent Theater headlined by Scott and Paul Oakley Stovall. Stovall, an award winning playwright, portrayed George Washington himself in Broadway’s hit Hamilton! Also in the program was a direct descendant and look-alike of Fredrick Douglas. The event was entertaining to the history geek in me and the theater geek in Debbie! Maybe she caught a glimpse into why I love history so much.
On to dinner in the Oneida Indian Nation Atrium! We were lucky enough to be seated between Kristian Smith and Matt Skic who is the Senior Curator at the museum. Boy did we have a lot to talk about! Check out his Instagram, writtenwithbricksnj. We aren’t the only ones with a niche hobby! We even got a gift bag to take home.
This event was one of the most proud moments I’ve had in 20 years as an APG board member. Not for me, but for all of you who support this organization. We don’t always get the recognition we deserve. Hell, sometimes we get outright dissed! The Museum of the American Revolution made it very clear how much they appreciate the APG and what we do. I was lucky enough to experience that first hand, but I think it’s important for all of you to know that at least, on 5 December, the APG was celebrated. Happy Holidays everyone!
Great report!