Save The Queen (STQ) managing partner Jeff Klein announced today that noted Long Beach historic preservation expert John W. Thomas has been brought on board to direct the process of restoring the Queen Mary’s historic iconic beauty.
“STQ is honored that John Thomas has joined our team,” said Jeff Klein. “John’s long and distinguished career as scholar, published author, art devotee and businessman in the field of art deco design will ensure the highest care and precision is given to these beautifully detailed restoration efforts. The Queen Mary is a historic, unique and valuable asset belonging to the people and city of Long Beach. We regard our stewardship of this grand lady as among our greatest responsibilities now and for future generations. That’s why we’ve brought on the best people to care for her, people like John Thomas.”
Thomas will assist in creating and then managing a new historic preservation non-profit organization whose sole focus will be to restore, preserve and enhance the historic value of the Queen Mary. He will immediately begin consulting with STQ and Hostmark Hospitality on the many ongoing and planned improvements for the Queen by the new lease owners.
“It is a great privilege to work with both STQ and Hostmark establishing a nonprofit foundation to assist and guide efforts toward developing a comprehensive restoration program,” said Thomas. “The Queen Mary is a wonderful example of magnificent legendary ocean liners that has become a historic, cultural and community asset in Long Beach for us and the world.”
Thomas is a 19-year resident of Long Beach. A long-time community activist, he has served on a wide variety of boards and commissions, currently including: president-elect of Long Beach Heritage, a member of the Long Beach Redevelopment Agency, vice president of Art Deco Society of Los Angeles and for seven years was a commissioner on the Long Beach Development Advisory Commission, four years as its chair.
Thomas is presently employed as the manager of the community development department for the City of Rancho Cucamonga. He has a bachelor’s and MBA from the University of Redlands and California Coast University, respectively.
