Comments from NativeForestHiller

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NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about RKO Keith's Theatre on Dec 13, 2009 at 10:13 pm

They don’t care about our quality of life. They did it to line their pockets. The only way to restore the beautiful courtyard, would be to sell the building and have the future owner demolish the construction that lacks integrity. Shamefully, some of our neighbors are a disgrace. We must teach our children from early on, so they’ll be community-minded visionaries.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about RKO Keith's Theatre on Dec 12, 2009 at 7:20 pm

Based on the above photo:

  1. Venator Capital destroyed its sense of history
  2. Exercised an anti-green policy
  3. Built new building with generic materials & a contradiction of style.

NOT what we envision for the RKO Keith’s Theatre!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Jackson Heights, Queens, New York Theaters on Dec 10, 2009 at 6:35 am

Thank you for your comment! The demolition of the Polk Theatre was a shame, so let’s hope that history won’t repeat itself. Would you be able to reach out to the former owner of the theater you worked at, and ask for some photos of the following theaters below?

As part of a preservation and revitalize campaign, can some of my fellow theater enthusiasts assist me? I would appreciate high-quality exterior and interior photos, which illustrate the Italian Renaissance style of the Jackson Triplex, and Art Deco style of the Eagle/Earle Theatre. Photos of the streetscape which show them as a central unit of a commercial complex, and wide-angles and details of the facades would be great, as I’d like to feature them on flickr and give you credit.

Also, any historic photos and newspaper clippings, which would strengthen our preservation cause, would be much-appreciated. Please e-mail me at

Thank you,
Michael Perlman
Four Borough Preservation Alliance Corp, Queens VP
Rego-Forest Preservation Council, Chair

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Eagle Theater on Dec 10, 2009 at 6:32 am

As part of a preservation and revitalize campaign, can some of my fellow theater enthusiasts assist me? I would appreciate high-quality exterior and interior photos, which illustrate the Italian Renaissance style of the Jackson Triplex, and Art Deco style of the Eagle/Earle Theatre. Photos of the streetscape which show them as a central unit of a commercial complex, and wide-angles and details of the facades would be great, as I’d like to feature them on flickr and give you credit.

Also, any historic photos and newspaper clippings, which would strengthen our preservation cause, would be much-appreciated. Please e-mail me at

Thank you,
Michael Perlman
Four Borough Preservation Alliance Corp, Queens VP
Rego-Forest Preservation Council, Chair

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Jackson Heights Cinema on Dec 10, 2009 at 6:31 am

As part of a preservation and revitalize campaign, can some of my fellow theater enthusiasts assist me? I would appreciate high-quality exterior and interior photos, which illustrate the Italian Renaissance style of the Jackson Triplex, and Art Deco style of the Eagle/Earle Theatre. Photos of the streetscape which show them as a central unit of a commercial complex, and wide-angles and details of the facades would be great, as I’d like to feature them on flickr and give you credit.

Also, any historic photos and newspaper clippings, which would strengthen our preservation cause, would be much-appreciated. Please e-mail me at

Thank you,
Michael Perlman
Four Borough Preservation Alliance Corp, Queens VP
Rego-Forest Preservation Council, Chair

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Eagle Theater on Dec 7, 2009 at 10:14 am

P.S. Does anyone have vintage photos of this theater?

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about RKO Keith's Theatre on Dec 4, 2009 at 3:39 am

The same article by Reporter Weilun Soon appears in the Queens Tribune. This is a great piece that is preservation-friendly, rather than drowning the theater in what a minute fraction of people want; another oversized condo with a demolished historic site. Hats off to Weilun Soon!

http://www.queenstribune.com/news/RKOFuture.html

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about RKO Keith's Theatre on Dec 4, 2009 at 12:50 am

Based upon Boymelgreen’s vision for an “Anytown USA” high-rise, and Suzuki not being more open with the public regarding his plans, should he take it over, it doesn’t sit well. Will they ever get it? Their reputation is drastically diminished by a diverse, extensive coalition. May the sensible citizens with a creative vision prevail! A performing arts center in a restored theater could symbolize a major economic boom. This is no ordinary theater. It was designed by one of the world’s greatest, and the memories within its walls are phenomenal.

Read the latest piece of coverage – “A Community Emerges To Preserve A Beloved Flushing Theatre” by Weilun Soon, Dec 1, 2009 of Queens Uncovered: View link

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Raging fire destroys Historic Central Texas Theater in Hamilton on Dec 2, 2009 at 10:57 pm

I am from NY, and I hear the cries of CT members and that of locals. A theater is a cornerstone of all communities, and some have statewide and national significance. Willing demolition due to a developer’s greed is bad enough, but it is additionally sad when it happens unexpectedly due to fire. It is truly indeed a sad day. I hope the cause is investigated, and a conclusion is made. When the timing is right, the theater owners should realize the pivotal role the theater played in the community, and in conjunction with elected officials, and community residents, rebuild a historic Art Deco gem; an endangered species countrywide.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Texan Theater on Dec 2, 2009 at 10:56 pm

I am from NY, and I hear your cries and that of locals. Willing demolition due to a developer’s greed is bad enough, but it is additionally sad when it happens unexpectedly due to fire. It is truly indeed a sad day. I hope the cause is investigated, and a conclusion is made. When the timing is right, the theater owners should realize the pivotal role the theater played in the community, and in conjunction with elected officials, and community residents, rebuild a historic Art Deco gem; an endangered species countrywide.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on Nov 24, 2009 at 2:25 am

Hi Peter, Thank you! I look forward to hearing your findings.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Jackson Heights, Queens, New York Theaters on Nov 21, 2009 at 5:39 am

I hope the 1939 Eagle/Earle Theatre (73-07 37th Road) and the 1924 Jackson Triplex (40-31 82nd Street) reopens as movie theaters, while any future owner would respect and restore their Art Deco and Italian Renaissance architectural features, respectively. They are a “diamond in the rough” with so many theaters demolished and shuttered today, and Queens cannot afford to lose anymore. We need someone with a creative vision, and has the community at heart.

Can someone please take a few up to date photos of the both theaters? I am seeking photos of the following:

  1. The facades, including the marquee and entrance pavilion.
  2. Some close-ups boasting its Art Deco and Italian Renaissance details, respectively.
  3. A wide-angle of the block consisting of the theater as a central unit of a commercial strip.
  4. Any building components that are not viewable from the frontage (i.e. side & back facades).
  5. Interior photos
  6. Any vintage photos you come across.

I will give you a photo credit, since I may be interested in featuring them in a few places as part of a preservation & revitalization campaign.

Preservation-minded parties should contact me, and I will provide advice on how to restore the theaters (funding opportunities) and make it viable. This approach has been successful for numerous theaters countrywide. Thank you!

  • Michael Perlman, Four Borough Preservation Alliance Corp Queens VP
NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on Nov 21, 2009 at 12:52 am

At the March 2009 Ridgewood Theatre Public Hearing, to determine its eligibility as an Individual Landmark (the facade), the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission said the commissioners will take a vote this fall, but the fall is almost over, and their calendar/agenda on their website does not indicate a date for the vote to be taken.

** The Ridgewood Theatre should NOT be amongst the “heard but not designated properties” list, where testimony was taken, but a vote and ultimately the property remained stagnant. Therefore, YOU CAN HELP by calling the Landmarks Commission and encouraging them to take a vote ASAP on the Ridgewood Theatre, so history shouldn’t repeat itself. Call &/or e-mail both LPC parties below, and post your findings here and e-mail Friends of The Ridgewood Theatre Chair Michael Perlman at Thank you!

Jenny Fernández
Director of Intergovernmental & Community Relations
NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission
1 Centre Street, 9th Floor North
New York, NY 10007
P: (212) 669-7923
F: (212) 669-7780
.gov

Robert Tierney
LPC Chairman
NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission
1 Centre Street, 9th Floor North
New York, NY 10007
P: (212) 669-7888
.gov
.gov

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Eagle Theater on Nov 20, 2009 at 2:02 am

Lost Memory et al: There are programs such as the State & National Register of Historic Places, which is part of the NY State Historic Preservation Office, which would likely address such preservation-minded repairs, if the theater is nominated and determined eligible.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Eagle Theater on Nov 20, 2009 at 1:59 am

Can someone please take a few up to date photos of the theater? I am seeking photos of the following:

  1. The Art Deco facade, including the marquee and entrance pavilion. 2. Some close-ups boasting its Art Deco details.
  2. A wide-angle of the block consisting of the theater as a central unit of an Art Deco commercial strip.
  3. Any building components that are not viewable from the frontage on 37th Rd.
  4. Interior photos
  5. Any vintage photos in existence.

Please e-mail me at I will give you a photo credit, since I may be interested in featuring them in a few places as part of a preservation & revitalization campaign. Thank you!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Eagle Theater on Nov 20, 2009 at 1:47 am

I forgot to mention that the Eagle/Earle Theatre was designed by a well-know architect, responsible for at least 127 theaters throughout the country; some of which are demolished since no one with a sense of history, community, and a plan came forward. Do not let this happen here. This is an opportunity to grasp, if done right!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Eagle Theater on Nov 20, 2009 at 1:44 am

Daily News Nov 17, 2009 Article

Bollywood strike, rent hikes lead to loss of classic Jackson Heights movie houses

View link

I hope the Eagle/Earle Theatre reopens as a movie theater, while the new owners respect and restore its Art Deco architectural features. It is a “diamond in the rough” with so many theaters demolished and shuttered today, and Queens cannot afford to lose anymore. Preservation-minded parties should contact Michael Perlman, Four Borough Preservation Alliance Corp Queens VP at and I will provide advice on how to restore the theater (funding opportunities) and make it viable. This approach has been successful for numerous theaters countrywide.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about RKO Keith's Theatre on Nov 15, 2009 at 5:05 am

I see your point. Thanks for the creative feedback, and for taking the time out! Perhaps Ed &/or Rick on behalf of Friends of The RKO Keith’s Flushing Theatre can read the article I posted, and come up with a consensus amongst members, and send it to City Council, City Planning, all assemblymembers, and mostly all forms of government that can play a role.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about RKO Keith's Theatre on Nov 14, 2009 at 6:27 am

Read this story of an Atmospheric theater under restoration. Let’s relate it to the RKO Keith’s: View link What do you think Ed, Rick, Tom, & other CT fans?

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about RKO Keith's Theatre on Oct 28, 2009 at 5:51 am

I have sent a comprehensive press, preservation, and political list to all of your e-mails as an attachment, to guarantee receipt. Please let me know. I also included paragraph recommendations for the press release, since you started working on it. I look forward to doing all I can. Power to the people!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about RKO Keith's Theatre on Oct 27, 2009 at 5:27 pm

It wouldn’t make much sense circulating an additional press release, so it’s best on behalf of the Facebook and RKO Foundation. I was planning to do it and have the RKO Foundation approve it. I can e-mail it to you. It contains some great information on its history and current preservation status, which I am unsure you have. The ideas should be incorporated. Can I send it to you in draft mode, as well as my updated press and political contacts list consisting of hundreds? Please let me know what you think. Thanks!

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about RKO Keith's Theatre on Oct 27, 2009 at 7:05 am

This is the direct link which contains commentary on the Queens Crap website:

View link

As stated in my e-mail, I have experience appealing to community boards, local politicians, and the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, as well as writing a press release to further promote the fundraising aspect and preservation ethic. What are your thoughts? Would it be okay to include the Paypal link? I will not proceed without your approval. Your 2 feasibility study proposals has great potential.

This is my appeal dating back to 2006, where I featured my friend and preservation colleague, Thomas Stathes. It contains some history: http://cinematreasures.org/news/14058_0_1_0_C/

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Ridgewood Theatre on Oct 23, 2009 at 9:59 am

Hi John, Thank you very much for your detailed assessment of your correspondence with Jenny Fernandez of the LPC. It sounds forthcoming, so let’s continue to hope that all goes smoothly, and may we all be in the forefront.

NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Regal UA Midway on Oct 20, 2009 at 12:13 am

This is a Midway Theatre photoset courtesy of Rego-Forest Preservation Council. The photos can be viewed in various resolutions and downloaded for future reference: View link
I will update it with interior views shortly.

  • Michael Perlman, Chairman
NativeForestHiller
NativeForestHiller commented about Trylon Theater on Oct 20, 2009 at 12:03 am

Hi Kyle,

As a 1939 World’s Fair enthusiast and Chair of Rego-Forest Preservation Council (serving Rego Park & Forest Hills), this will be a commendable project. I am interested in learning more. I also left you a comment on ReactionGrid’s flickr profile.

I founded the Committee To Save The Trylon Theater in 2005. The upper streamlined Art Deco facade & glass block projection tower remains with a renovated marquee, but some of the most significant attributes are sacrificed in the name of progress (in the unideal sense). The Trylon-adorned mosaic ticket booth was jackhammered, the entrance pavilion’s mosaic floor with chevrons and a central terrazzo element of a 3D interpretation of the Trylon Monument was cemented over. There is now a faux marble wall with wooden doors out to the curb. I am confident that these alterations could be reversed in years to come. The Trylon fountain inside the lobby was either sheet rocked over or jackhammered, and the World of Tomorrow murals that graced the proscenium are rumored to be gone. This was all due to an unresponsive councilmember and the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission that claimed they waited for her advanced opinion on the issue, which isn’t required as per the Landmarks Law.

Do you hope to rebuild the Trylon Theater in 3D based upon existing photos and any historic blueprints that may exist? Please let me know your plans. You can e-mail me at as well as post here so other fans can learn and get involved in any way. Thank you!

  • Michael Perlman