Regarding a Thread on Facebook Streator, IL and Surrounding Area
Robert Endres
Since I've been mentioned frequently in this thread I'd like to comment. I was the largest contributor to getting the Majestic projectors. Working at Dolby Laboratories in New York at the time I was able to secure some discounts for the projectors and the associated Dolby equipment. I also paid to have our two best installation engineers in New York come out to install the equipment. I was shocked when Katie's partner who owned the building called cursing me out and ordering me to get "my" projectors out of the building as I had given him what so many other independent theatres at the time were seeking - a way to convert from film to digital projection. The Majestic had one of the best digital installations around at the time of its closure. Katie did not board the theatre up, but I was glad that she was able to get the projectors out as they would have been sold. She always planned to reinstall them and reopen the theatre but as she has noted a long list of obstacles has thwarted her plan. The Majestic is one of Streator's few remaining links to the its past. There is value in preserving a town's history and many small town theatres have done that. See for example the Fischer Theatre in Danville. The last time I was in it it was in worse shape than the Majestic with large holes in the roof and ceiling. Now it's a beautifully restored performing arts and civic center. It can be done! It's time Katie got some help and encouragement from the community - not vilification.