Mark Fleischer, grandson of the legendary cartoon mogul Max Fleischer and president of Fleischer Studios, will be presented with the key to Miami-Dade County in Florida at 10:00 am on August 14, 2003. The ceremony will take place at the historic Miami building Fleischer Studios occupied in the 1930s and 1940s. Fleischer was one of the first major businesses to move to the Miami area, producing some of the worlds most beloved animation series and features.
Fleischer Studios brought many classic cartoon characters to life, including POPEYE, SUPERMAN and BETTY BOOP, and produced the classic animated features GULLIVER'S TRAVELS and MR. BUG GOES TO TOWN. The studio moved from New York City to Miami in 1938 and remained there until joining Paramount in 1943. The studio produced 500 new jobs in Miami, drawing most of its employees from the Miami Art School.
Max Fleischer was one of the great visionaries of his time, said Mark Fleischer. Among one of his great visions was that of the future of the Miami-Dade area, where he chose to build Fleischer Studios, the largest and most advanced animation studio of its day. We are extremely honored that Miami-Dade has chosen to honor Fleischer Studios. Our family could not be more proud to have played a roll in the rich history and culture of Miami, and we truly treasure that privilege.
Fleischer Studios, now based in the Los Angeles area, is developing media and other opportunities for the classic BETTY BOOP, along with King Features Syndicate, which acts as the worldwide merchandising representative for the character. Richard Fleischer, film director and son of Max Fleischer, continues to act as chairman of the board.
