The ultimate compliment for the gigantic parade, tributes and partying that marked Saturday’s Opening Day of Culver City’s Centennial Year-long celebration was paid by Mr. Centennial:

“Everything about Saturday exceeded our wildest expectations,” said Mayor Jim Clarke.  He has been the principal organizer, the nurturing father, the chief cheerleader and the face of Centennial Year, Culver City’s 12-month journey to its 100th birthday next Sept. 20.

Possibly the most fun many of the participants have enjoyed in the 99 years since Harry Culver founded the community.

More than 1,000 persons representing 80 different groups marched in the kickoff parade down Culver Boulevard to the Culver Hotel, scene of the hour-long Opening Ceremonies.

Besides Mr. Clarke and Paul Jacobs, president of the Centennial Committee, speakers included School Boared President Dr. Steve Levin, the mayors of three of Culver City’s Sister Cities – from Canada, Mexico and Japan – state Sen. Holly Mitchell (D-Culver City/Crenshaw District), Scott Houston, a director of the West Basin Municipal Water District and Jerome Horton of the state Board of Equalization.

“Part of what was fabulous,” said Mayor Clarke, “was the way that so many people dressed up for the occasion, especially when they opened up Downtown afterward for the Block Party that lasted all afternoon.”

Happily, despite the crowds and party atmosphere, no problematic incidents were reported.

One of Mayor Clarke’s favorite moments came early in the day: “We were all lined up on Overland, all the parade participants, a huge crowd, both sides of the street, all the way to Braddock. We were in rows, and they released one row at a time.

“I parked my car at City Hall and walked to the start of the parade at the Vets, at 8:15, 45 minutes before the parade,” Mayor Clarke said.

“There might have been 30 people on the sidewalk. I thought, ‘Oh, gosh. I hope more people will be watching the parade.’

“Finally, when it was the turn of our row to go, we were No. 22 out of 80.”

Mr. Clarke ended up driving a new convertible in the parade, accompanied by fellow City Councilmen Göran Eriksson and Thomas Small.

Once Mr. Clarke’s row activated, and made the turn from Overland onto Culver Boulevard, throngs of people were present. “Sidewalks were packed all the way Downtown,” Mr. Clarke said. “It was exhilarating to see all of the people. A fabulous day. This is the memory that will stick with me most.”