Retaining charm while updating and upgrading its facilities earned the Star Cinema the First Impressions Award for 2019 from the Stayton Sublimity Chamber of Commerce. Because the owners made major interior and exterior improvements and modern enhancements while retaining charm, the theater is a major asset to the Stayton downtown core, a nominator said.
The First Impressions Award is given to a business or organization within the Stayton-Sublimity area that has completed major exterior improvements or remodeling or major landscape enhancements to its location or has worked to improve public exterior spaces through remodeling, clean-up, beautification and enhancement.
“I just recently re-joined the Chamber now that I’m working in Stayton again, instead of just Dallas,” said owner Jeff Mexico. “So, it was a pleasant surprise to be recognized so soon.”
Mexico was the general contractor and designer for the remodel, which took place in October, and performed a lot of the work himself.
Star Cinema’s facade received new neon, paint, lighting, poster display modifications, box office counter and exterior doors. The lobby received new hardwood flooring throughout, new runway carpeting and new toilets. The snack bar was removed and rebuilt with all new counters, electrical, plumbing, extension of the snack bar for more room and a ductless AC unit to help keep it cool with the new ovens.
“Everyone is loving the fresh look of the outside and really loving the new snack bar with the many food options we now offer,” Mexico said. “And of course, the option to have a beer, cider or a glass of wine has been a big plus.”
Mexico, who re-opened the theater in 2002, wants to upgrade the sound system before summer, followed by seating when funds are available.
“RDS is very excited that Star Cinema is being recognized for the great work he has done under the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant,” said Steve Poisson of Revitalizing Downtown Stayton. “His goal was to ‘make it shine’ like when it opened in 1949, and we think he has met his goal.”
Poisson said Mexico is the first business owner to complete his work under the grant and believes the rest of the block will follow throughout the year.
“Not only that, but the old Rumors and Our Town buildings are now undergoing renovation,” Poisson said. “We plan to have as many downtown owners as possible follow Jeff’s example of bringing back the character of our small town. Star Cinema deserves the First Impressions Award as it strikingly shows how community effort can dramatically impact the look of our downtown.”
An honorable mention for First Impressions goes to Stayton Hobby Hut, which came in second in what SSCOC reported was “a very close race.”
“As a chamber, we are pleased with the domino effect happening in our local Stayton community,” said Carmélle Bielenberg, president and CEO of SSCOC.
“This year a number of area businesses and building owners took it upon themselves to update building exteriors. The Star Cinema has done an excellent job with both their interior and exterior improvements, with the help of a matching grant, making a positive and inviting impact on the downtown area.
“We would also like to give a shout out to Kick Start Coffee, Not So Shabby, Mary Artz Tax & Business Services, and the number of other local businesses who are transforming our city through exterior projects and enhanced curb appeal, the most noticeable being Stayton Hobby Hut,” Bielenberg said.
“We commend these and all businesses who choose to take pride in their appearance and by doing so help make a positive impact on the community at large.”
