Comments from NativeForestHiller

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NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Looking for a Theater on May 14, 2008 at 6:29 am

Updating my 3/22 posting, please read my public appeal for the historic Ridgewood Theatre by Thomas Lamb, where I am seeking an art-related tenant. This was composed voluntarily, as a director on the board of Queens Preservation Council:

http://cinematreasures.org/news/19023_0_1_0_C/

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Looking to lease theater on May 14, 2008 at 6:28 am

This may be stretching your limits. However, please read my public appeal for the historic Ridgewood Theatre by Thomas Lamb, where I am seeking an art-related tenant. This was composed voluntarily, as a director on the board of Queens Preservation Council:

http://cinematreasures.org/news/19023_0_1_0_C/

If this is not of interest, would you happen to know of anyone else who may be? Thanks!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Want to buy a theater on May 14, 2008 at 6:24 am

Updating my March 20th posting, please read my public appeal for the Ridgewood Theatre, where I am seeking an art-related tenant. This was composed voluntarily, as a director on the board of Queens Preservation Council:

http://cinematreasures.org/news/19023_0_1_0_C/

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on May 14, 2008 at 2:44 am

Great, Panzer56. Thank you!

Also, thanks for your compliment on my public appeal, PKoch. It is my pleasure!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about UA Forest Hills Twin Theatre on May 13, 2008 at 11:26 pm

Hi Warren,

Please let me know if you received my e-mail on this theater & follow-up on the Midway.

As apparent from the following work permits, the structure was gutted and partly demolished in the late 90s. Work was coordinated under an alteration permit, rather than a demolition permit:

View link

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on May 13, 2008 at 11:21 pm

Thanks for your report, Panzer65! I encourage you to pay a visit to the theater. Curiosity pays off sometimes.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on May 13, 2008 at 7:57 pm

Everyone, please read my public appeal for the Ridgewood Theatre, where I am seeking an art-related tenant. This was composed voluntarily, as a director on the board of Queens Preservation Council:

http://cinematreasures.org/news/19023_0_1_0_C/

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on May 13, 2008 at 7:54 pm

Thank you for your verification, BrooklynJim. It’s a shame the management didn’t market the theater correctly, especially around the 90th anniversary season.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on May 13, 2008 at 2:42 am

A great assessment, Bway! I couldn’t agree with you more. The Ridgewood Theatre needs a sensitive tenant/tenants, and an architect with a vision to respect its history while moving into the future. It has been accomplished in various states, and there’s no reason why the same can’t be accomplished here. I am working on finding an art-related tenant, as part of my Queens Preservation Council role. If anyone knows of someone, please don’t hesitate to contact me at

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on May 12, 2008 at 12:35 am

BrooklynJim, have you spoken with the owner who was in place since last year? Please share the background info on item #1.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on May 4, 2008 at 5:46 am

Great point, Bway!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on May 3, 2008 at 4:49 am

On the marquee, the owner posted a banner stating “retail space available.” Even though it would be great retaining all the screens for movies, I speculate the owner feels it’s not profitable enough. Therefore, live theater or reuse by an art group is pretty ideal. I understand how you feel. The bottom line is that anything is better than a typical retail establishment to inhabit the theater, and alter it further. Some architectural details are visible to the eye, and some are obscured awaiting restoration. We need to find a respectful tenant or two.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Paramount Theatre on May 3, 2008 at 3:26 am

Vito, clever reuse for the marquee letters!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Paramount Theatre on May 3, 2008 at 3:26 am

A restored and adaptively reused theater can improve the value of a neighborhood, and lead to urban renewal in a positive context. It has been proven through & through across America. It only needs someone with a historically-sensitive & creative vision.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Kew Gardens Cinemas on May 3, 2008 at 3:22 am

The most up to date website is http://www.kewgardenstheatre.com

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Regal UA Midway on May 2, 2008 at 5:53 pm

Thank you very much! Will do either tonight or tomorrow.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on May 2, 2008 at 4:57 am

Thank you both for your wishes! Considering its endangerment, a most ideal scenario economically would be film screenings on the upper floors, and utilizing the 2 ground floor theaters for live theater or a related arts group. I feel the future will be somewhat positive or very positive.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Regal UA Midway on May 2, 2008 at 12:23 am

And an additional favor, Warren: I came across quite a few great links throughout this thread. However, they were inaccessible. Can you please resend valid links, or send the documents to my e-mail? I would be happy to give you credit as part of my research.
Thanks!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Regal UA Midway on May 2, 2008 at 12:07 am

Hi Warren, I visited the Performing Arts Library, and found what I was looking for on the Midway Theatre. Thanks for your tips on that!

Please let me ask you for another favor. What publication are the 2 links you posted above from? A full-image with a decent resolution would be extremely useful for my research. Post or e-mail Thank you!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on May 1, 2008 at 7:35 pm

I am assisting owner Tony Montalbano, and hoping to find a theater/art group who would be interested in leasing the 2 ground floor theaters. Please network the idea with trustworthy contacts. I need all the help I can get, and would appreciate your help. That is HOW EVERYONE CAN HELP WIN this effort. You heard right! My e-mail is Thanks! – Michael

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on Apr 7, 2008 at 2:31 am

Panzer65 wrote “It should either be saved and restored to a historic performing arts and film venue….” I’ll take that part of your suggestion anytime. May the majority of citizens on this forum & in Ridgewood win out. Know of anyone who’s interested?

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on Apr 5, 2008 at 2:18 am

For all you Ridgewood Theatre fans, here is a press round-up.

View link

View link

View link

Also, pick up a copy of the Forum West newspaper, for another great article. It is not available online currently. Please share your thoughts, concerns, & comments.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Paramount Theatre on Mar 31, 2008 at 5:54 pm

Each community has its own type of residents, and their interests should be surveyed. I don’t feel that one performing arts center per community is too much.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Paramount Theatre on Mar 31, 2008 at 1:24 am

Thanks, Movie534! Performing arts is the way to go! I don’t live in SI, but do take an interest in this theater. Its facade is highly appealing. The people should be the individuals to seek preservation-friendly owners with a vision. Otherwise, these gems will most likely go to pot in the name of progress in a negative sense.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Paramount Theatre on Mar 30, 2008 at 5:56 am

Does anyone have any updates?