Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio Episode: Abbott and Costello Junior Youth Foundation 47-05-03 Dedicated to Lou Costello Jr
Release Date: June 5, 2025

1. Introduction to the Dedication Ceremony

The episode opens with Arch Presby setting the stage for the monumental dedication of The Lou Costello Jr. Youth Foundation in East Los Angeles. Presby emphasizes the foundation's purpose, highlighting its role as a sanctuary for thousands of young boys and girls in the community. He notes, "This elaborately equipped playground stretches over three acres of ground and took three years to complete" (00:33).

2. Opening Prayer

Father Carter leads the congregation in a heartfelt prayer, invoking divine blessings upon the foundation. He articulates the mission of the center, focusing on the development of good citizens through Christian virtues. A notable quote from Father Carter at 01:38 encapsulates the essence of the foundation:

"By imitating the virtues in the life of Christ, this program will give opportunity to the poor and less fortunate."

3. Speeches by Dignitaries

Bud Abbott and Lou Costello's Opening Remarks

Bud Abbott expresses profound gratitude and excitement about the dedication, saying at 04:00:

"This is a day that Bud and I have waited for for three years. It's here. We're very, very happy."

Lou Costello extends his congratulations and highlights the foundation's significance for future generations:

"This great institution will stand as a monument to your generosity, to your true friendliness, and to your great Americanism." (04:28)

Lieutenant Governor Goodwin Knight

The Lieutenant Governor praises the foundation, emphasizing its impact on Los Angeles County and its youth. He remarks:

"May I say that California has men that match its mountains." (06:04)

Attorney General Fred Hauser

Fred Hauser reflects on the challenges overcome to realize the foundation, acknowledging Bud and Lou's vision:

"You have demonstrated it. And in the words that are inscribed in white marble above one of our state buildings in Sacramento, give me men to match my mountains." (06:04)

Sheriff Barton Biscalus

Sheriff Biscalus shares a personal connection to the area and commends Bud and Lou for their contribution:

"These kids here who are the citizens of tomorrow, you're making a contribution now that it may take years for you both to realize what it means." (07:19)

Chief Harrell

The Chief of Police, Chief Harrell, lauds the foundation's role in fostering community and reducing delinquency:

"You've done a great job here. I know that it will be a tribute to you all, not only all your lives, but for years and years to come." (09:38)

4. Key Handover Ceremony

In a symbolic gesture, Bud and Lou present keys to two selected youths, Vidal Cerna and Betty Allen, signifying the opening of the foundation to all children:

Lou Costello instructs, "[...] shut up and allow him to enter the foundation." (11:03)
Bud Abbott hands the keys and adds, "Any boy, any boy in the city of Los Angeles, give him your key." (11:08)

5. Descriptive Tour of the Foundation

Arch Presby provides an in-depth tour of the newly inaugurated foundation, detailing its extensive facilities designed to nurture and educate the youth. Highlights include:

• Lobby: Features a radio, television set, piano, fireplace, snack bar, and bamboo furniture for comfort.

• Girls' Resting Room: Equipped with radios, books, and comfortable seating for socializing.

• Junior Board of Directors Room: A space where the youth govern themselves, establishing policies and regulations.

• Hobby Shop: Fully equipped for metal and woodwork, overseen by Mr. Gomez, who instructs the children on various tools and projects.

• Radio Room: A soundproof studio with transcription tables and recording equipment, allowing children to broadcast.

• Health Service Department: Managed by Mrs. Gonzales, featuring a modern clinic with ultraviolet lamps and consultation rooms for both medical and personal issues.

• Photography Room: Complete with a darkroom, enlargers, and printers for creative expression.

• Athletic Facilities: Includes fields for softball, basketball, badminton, tennis, a versatile roller skating arena, ping pong tables, and a large barbecue pit.

Presby concludes the tour with enthusiasm:

"I personally am thrilled to death with the entire thing." (11:22)

6. Closing Remarks and Celebrity Interactions

As the foundation officially opens, celebrities Gloria Jean and Peggy Ryan join Bud and Lou on stage to greet the children, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. Arch Presby wraps up the ceremony by reinforcing the foundation's mission to cultivate better citizens.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Arch Presby: "This is a day that Bud and I have waited for for three years. It's here. We're very, very happy." (04:00)

• Father Carter: "By imitating the virtues in the life of Christ, this program will give opportunity to the poor and less fortunate." (01:38)

• Lou Costello: "This great institution will stand as a monument to your generosity, to your true friendliness, and to your great Americanism." (04:28)

• Fred Hauser: "You have demonstrated it. And in the words that are inscribed in white marble above one of our state buildings in Sacramento, give me men to match my mountains." (06:04)

• Sheriff Biscalus: "These kids here who are the citizens of tomorrow, you're making a contribution now that it may take years for you both to realize what it means." (07:19)

• Chief Harrell: "You've done a great job here. I know that it will be a tribute to you all, not only all your lives, but for years and years to come." (09:38)

• Lou Costello: "Shut up and allow him to enter the foundation." (11:03)

Conclusion

This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio captures the heartfelt dedication of The Lou Costello Jr. Youth Foundation, showcasing the collaborative efforts of comedians Bud Abbott and Lou Costello in honoring Lou's late son. Through speeches, symbolic ceremonies, and a comprehensive tour, listeners gain an insight into the foundation's mission to empower and nurture the youth of Los Angeles. The event is marked by community support, dignitary endorsements, and the promise of a brighter future for countless children.

Timestamps

• [00:01] - Wayfair Advertisement
• [00:33] - Arch Presby Introduction
• [01:38] - Father Carter's Prayer
• [03:40] - Introduction of Abbott and Costello
• [04:00] - Bud Abbott's Opening Remarks
• [04:28] - Lou Costello on Lieutenant Governor Goodwin Knight
• [05:28] - Bud Abbott's Commentary
• [05:44] - Introduction of Attorney General Fred Hauser
• [06:04] - Fred Hauser's Speech
• [06:58] - Bud Abbott Thanks Fred Hauser
• [07:12] - Introduction of Sheriff Biscalus
• [07:19] - Sheriff Biscalus's Speech
• [08:28] - Bud Abbott Praises Board and Introduces Phil Russell
• [09:15] - Lou Costello's Thanks
• [09:24] - Introduction of Chief Harrell
• [09:35] - Lou Costello Responds
• [09:38] - Chief Harrell's Speech
• [11:03] - Lou Costello's Instruction
• [11:08] - Bud Abbott Hands Over Key to Betty Allen
• [11:22] - Arch Presby's Tour of the Foundation
• [14:16] - Bud Abbott's Final Remarks
• [14:53] - Arch Presby's Closing Statements
• [15:18] - Wayfair Advertisement
• [15:48] - Chief Harrell's Final Advertisement