Philanthropy Makes Movies More Fun

This 2014 story from our Asbury Foundation FOCUS Magazine archives is one of many inspiring stories sharing the actions of our donor family.

Watching movies in the auditorium at Asbury Solomons used to be a less than enjoyable experience. The same light that provides the beautiful riverfront views in the room also made it virtually impossible to see the dim image produced by the system’s dated projector.

Resident Gunter Arndt put his technical background to work in researching video systems, and it quickly became apparent that philanthropy would be needed to supplement what had been budgeted. Then lightning struck—literally. It damaged the old system and galvanized generous Asbury Solomons residents.

A grant from the resident Computer Club as well as personal gifts from Ginny and Gunter Arndt and Joyce and Whitey Thayer provided nearly $9,000 in additional funds to purchase the system that was truly needed. “The lightning strike was an opportunity that fell into our laps,” Computer Club Co-President Suzanne Edwards said. “We were unanimous and excited about supporting the project.”

The new video system includes a Blu-ray player and a projector rated at 6,500 lumens, bright enough to be seen on even the sunniest Southern Maryland days. From slideshows to films, classes to ceremonies, the projector will see a wide variety of content pass through its lens.

“This room is used so much,” Suzanne said. “There are probably very few this effort won’t impact at one point or another.”