Author: ayanoh

Preston Castle gets a visit from director of Merle Haggard documentary

According to Wednesday’s Ledger-Dispatch, the director Gandulf Hennig visited Preston Castle for a film on Merle Haggard. The now famous musician was at Preston School of Industry and even attempted an escape in 1953, when he was 16.

The article states, ‘Hennig’s film crew spent several hours in Ione. Preston Castle Foundation President Marie Nutting took them on a tour of the landmark correctional facility that had once labeled Haggard “incorrigible.”‘

Further, according to the Ledger Dispatch,  the Castle has been featured in a variety of different shoots including a Travel Channel episode of “Ghost Adventures,” (Link to their video here) UOP student film director Caroline Taylor’s “Engagement to Murder” and scenes from co-producers Porter Media Group and Imagination Theater upcoming play, “Dracula.” It has also seen many photographers on it’s first Photographer’s Day in April of last year.

Nutting is currently asking Haggard for a possible interview to seek more insight about the history and school at his time. Garavaglia Architecture, Inc, is also continuing with its efforts to assist in rehabilitating the structure.

Preston Castle

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Read more from the full article from the Ledger- Dispatch: Director arrives at Preston Castle for upcoming film on Merle Haggard.

Workshop on Partnerships to Rehabilitate Historic Buildings

Michael Garavaglia, Principal of Garavaglia Architecture, Inc., will be speaking at a workshop in Ione, CA on how public-private partnerships work in the rehabilitation of historic buildings. A panel of experts from public and private sectors will present an overview of real estate development strategies for historic buildings.

Some key areas covered and opportunities available in this workshop:

  • There is money available, even in the current economy, to finance rehabilitation projects.
  • Learn about the process, from envisioning the project through opening day, and how to avoid common mistakes.
  • Meet panelists who have used these partnerships and resources to make real projects happen.
  • Meet others in your community who share similar goals, forge new partnerships, and share your knowledge.

Make History: Public-Private Partnerships to Rehabilitate

March 10, 2010
Evalynn Bishop Hall, Howard Park
600 South Church Street
Ione, CA 91030 (Amador County)
9:00 AM — 5:00 PM

In Partnership with City of Ione and Preston Castle Foundation

For more information and registration, visit:
http://californiapreservation.org/PDFs/RE_developmentI.pdf.

Dea Bacchetti speaks to the First Unitarian Church of Oakland

As President of Oakland Heritage Alliance, Marketing Manager Dea Bacchetti spoke to the First Unitarian Church of Oakland in a speech titled “Affirmations,” about the Church’s efforts to rehabilitation and Oakland Heritage Alliance assistance as a partner in this 28 year venture this past weekend. In her speech she recognizes the Church’s challenging but successful endeavor and its importance:

“Opened in 1891, and built solely with materials timbered, quarried, or otherwise made in California, this superbly crafted Richardsonian Romanesque style building has withstood the test of time. Over 100 years, and two earthquakes later, the structure has gracefully provided a home for Sunday services, hosted thousands of meetings, weddings, and events. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977, the church is also a California Landmark and arguably one of Oakland’s more significant historic buildings… Through your actions you have preserved this shining gem and have served as an example to all: how a group of dedicated people can make a difference in preserving our past for future generations.”