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Fund-raising drive on for Hotel LaF documentary

A fund-raising drive is under way to provide local support for the long-awaited documentary film on the Hotel LaFontaine and other points of interest in Huntington. The footage is now being edited and is expected to be shown on WFWA Channel 39.

An anonymous benefactor has offered a matching grant of up to $3,500 for any contributions received by Jan. 25. Donations are tax-deductible and may be sent to the Huntington County Community Development Foundation, PO Box 3057, or sent electronically to www.huntingtonccf.org/crowdfund/lafontaine.

The story of the Hotel LaFontaine is unique in many ways, as it was built and furnished with the finest materials and quickly rose to national fame as an outstanding place to stay. Its fame drew such celebrities as Henry and Edsel Ford, Carole Lombard, Amelia Earhart and the famous Tarzan, Johnny Weismuller. There is even a reference to a visit by famous gangster John Dillinger.

It is hoped that the production of the documentary will preserve the hotel’s story for years to come and generate publicity for the Huntington community. For more information, contact Jean Gernand at 388-4836.