[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 114 (Thursday, July 14, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Page S5147]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               90TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HOLLYWOOD THEATRE

  Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, this year marks the 90th anniversary of the 
Hollywood Theatre in Portland, OR. Now a nonprofit organization, the 
Hollywood Theatre is an important Oregon landmark with a rich cultural 
history. Today I want to honor the Hollywood Theatre's 90 years of 
educating, entertaining, and bringing the community together through 
film.
  The Hollywood Theatre was built in 1926, at the very end of the 
silent movie era. It was designed in an opulent Spanish Colonial 
Revival style, featuring extravagant interiors and a recognizable terra 
cotta exterior. Ninety years ago, it opened its doors to thousands of 
Oregonians who flocked to the luxurious theater to see its first show, 
``More Pay-Less Work,'' for a quarter. It thrived during cinema's 
transition to ``talkies,'' hosting not only films but also community 
events such as bond drives during WWII and annual Rose Festival 
ceremonies. It was such a popular destination that the Northeast 
Portland neighborhood surrounding it became known as the Hollywood 
District.
  In the 1960s, the popularity of television caused the Hollywood 
Theatre to fall on hard times. Although it was added to the National 
Register of Historic Places in 1983, it slipped into a period of 
disrepair and nearly burned down. Fortunately, it was purchased by Film 
Action Oregon, a local nonprofit, in 1997. Its new management returned 
the theatre to its historic appearance and renewed its status as a 
Portland jewel and community hub. The Hollywood Theatre now plays 
independent films and hosts film festivals, comedy shows, lectures, and 
continues the tradition of hosting community events. It is recognized 
by the national film community for its exceptional selection of films 
and support for local filmmakers through funding and consultation. 
Later this summer, travelers will be able to witness the theatre's 
newest project, a small theatre in the PDX airport, which will showcase 
short films by local artists. What better way to wait for a flight than 
to grab a local microbrew and enjoy a local short film? No other 
airport in the Nation can boast such a treat.
  The Hollywood Theatre is a testament to the Oregonian values: 
supporting small businesses, building and engaging local communities, 
making art accessible, and respecting and reviving historic landmarks. 
It exposes patrons to a wider variety of films than those offered by 
larger cinemas, often offering thought-provoking alternatives to 
blockbusters. In an age of multiplex theaters and in-home streaming 
services, it has taken a lot of passion for the Hollywood Theatre to 
pursue its mission and a lot of local support to keep it viable and 
flourishing. I would like to congratulate everyone who has been a part 
of its success. Hollywood Theatre. Thank you for inspiring countless 
people through film and community.

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