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News February 2014
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People for the Pavilion off and running
February 17, 2014
Over 200 people—community residents, architecture buffs, historians, local officials—toughed near-arctic conditions to participate in People for the Pavilion’s kickoff meeting January 25 to discuss the future of Philip Johnson’s 1964 World’s Fair New York State Pavilion in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Attendees report that the room was buzzing with enthusiasm and excitement about the possibilities as individuals shared wishes, warnings and wisdom. (A video of event highlights is available here.) Perhaps so much so that the following week the new Queens Borough President Melinda Katz announced her commitment to seeing the structure saved starting with a task force to focus on the Pavilion and bring together supporters. During a recent tour of the pavilion with Assemblywoman Marge Markey, Assemblyman Michael Simanowitz and Councilman Rory Lancman, Katz stated that the consensus among elected officials and Queens residents is that the structure should not be dismantled.
On a somber note: We’re saddened to share the news that People for the Pavilion co-founder Christian Doran passed away suddenly on February 9. The Pavilion lost an ardent champion.
“Queens Borough President Melinda Katz promises New York State Pavilion is safe from wrecking ball,” NY Daily News (February 7, 2014)
A documentary film on the NYS Pavilion is underway as a means for expanding the Pavilion’s base of supporters. The project, led by People for the Pavilion co-founder Matt Silva, is in its final stage of Kickstarter funding. We urge you to help fund this ambitious project in support of the site’s preservation.
Kickstarter and trailer for: “Modern Ruin: A World’s Fair Pavilion” here.

