The Wizard of Venice Is Subject of Lecture:

The Santa Monica Historical Society Museum will mark Black History Month on Sunday, February 12 with a lecture and book signing by Venice resident Sonya Reese Davis, whose new book, The Wizard of Venice, chronicles her grandfather, Arthur L. Reese’s life. An inventor, decorator and businessman in Venice in the early 1900s, Reese, “the wizard,” decorated the new town, designed gondolas for the Venice canals, and operated businesses in both Venice and Santa Monica. Davis will talk about how her grandfather’s passion to succeed led to his friendly business relationship with Abbott Kinney, the founder of Venice, and the ways in which he brought the communities of Venice and Santa Monica together together through social clubs and events. Following her lecture, Davis will sign copies of her book. Seating is limited for the 2 p.m. event and reservations are required. Free parking. Call for reservations, (310) 395-2290. The museum is located at 1539 Euclid Street.