(UNEDITED)What a loss for our community, like we need another car lot when that's all Riverdale consists of is dealerships, restaurants, shopping centers and strip malls. Not much of a legacy is it? Can you imagine downtown Ogden without the Egyptian Theatre, Eccles Building, First Security Bank Building, Ben Lomond Hotel and Union Station?
Riverdale City has no sense of history, look around they've torn down everything, they'll have nothing left of it's past, do they even realise this?
I'm very thankful for what the late Larry H. Miller has done for Utah, I enjoy so many venues that Larry loving created. His legacy is an amazing one and I am very thankful for all he did to make life in Utah that much better.
I'm sure if Larry were still alive he would be very understanding and wanting to work with the people of the Ogden area to preserve this landmark. The man was very sentimental and a good guy. The LHM Group would have never known just how much this means to all of us if it wasn't for all the fine people voicing their feelings and memories of the Cinedome 70. It truly is a huge part of our lifes.
I only hopeful his wife Gail, his son Greg and other members of his group will realize before it's too late that building on this site will be regretful in the long run as community landmarks can not be replaced.
What a great opportunity for the LHM Group with their movie theatre business. It would be nice to see them save the Cinedome 70 Theatre and let it be used as a theatre for which it was intended. The ceiling height is perfect for installing IMAX screens such as those at their other venues Jordon Commons and Thanksgiving Point. Both domes could be used for movies and yes live performances, corporate meetings, and gatherings for larger groups including motivational speakers and even concerts. The key in this is adding smaller screens nearby, thus it will be able to compete with the multiplex theatres that obviously was the reason for it's demise in the first place. Restaurants, specialty shops, and the additional screens could all be built nearby where the former TCI Cable building is now vacant with plenty of parking for the crowds this would generate.
They should consider the old Walmart/Macy's building for their new car lot. It is right in the heart of dealership row and could easily be converted to suit their needs as a showroom along with parts and service.
Mayor Burrows and others on the Riverdale City Council would be wise to start working with the current property owner and the LHM Group before it's too late and the wrecking ball is crashing in on our beloved theatre.
Rod Nelson
Ogden
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