Herb Caen ... A Chronicle

A KRON-TV documentary film tribute titled ?Herb Caen? A Chronicle? from 1997 which looks at the life and work of San Francisco Chronicle columnist and Pulitzer Prize winner Herb Caen (1916-1997). Features interviews with: Willie Brown (San Francisco politician); his son Christopher Caen; Caen's assistants Carole Vernier and Jerry Bundson; William German (San Francisco Chronicle Editor); Sue Bierman (San Francisco Supervisor); Rev. Cecil Williams; Bruce Bellingham; Barbara Marino; Strange de Jim and others. Willie Brown chracterizes Caen as being ?never mean spirited? throughout his 58 year career at the San Francisco Chronicle. Begins with an account of how Caen began his successful writing career upon moving to San Francisco in 1936. Continues with a perspective on how Caen's Chronicle column influenced public opinion in San Franicsco on important issues relating to gay civil rights racism the Vietnam War and environmental protection. Ends by reflecting on Caen's legacy which was officially recognized when he won a special Pulitzer Prize on April 19th 1996 for his "extraordinary and continuing contribution as a voice and conscience of his city." Caen was diagnosed with lung cancer in 1995 which began to take a toll on his work. Herb Caen Day was inaugurated on June 14 1996 with a celebration along the Embarcadero which he helped preserve 30 years ago by opposing the construction of a freeway. This film was written and produced by Craig Franklin narrated by Suzanne Shaw and edited by Jim Joy. Catalogued for the web by Anthony Wilson. Opening graphic designed by Carrie Hawks.