Dear Editor:
I thank John A. Matins for his terrific and comprehensive Oct. 12 story (Bringing Loew’s to new Heights?) Which exposed the serious threat to the volunteer organization, The Friends of the Loew’s from city economic development officials. I am thankful to this volunteer group which has worked hard to preserve and restore this public jewel for over 15 years.
Most people value the American spirit of volunteerism and would trust a dedicated group of citizens more than an outside profit-seeking private company. The Friends have earned the opportunity of a lease extension so it can use its acquired expertise to run, book shows and operate the theater.
It is insulting to all civic volunteers that certain city officials wouldn’t want to empower the people who have worked so hard for so long to benefit the theater, Journal Square, and our city.
It doesn’t take expensive professional managers to book acts in such a magnificent historical theater. It takes the heart, commitment and talent which the Friends of the Loew’s (FOL) has an abundance of.
One reason it hasn’t raised more money is that it never was given by past administrations the legal authority to get major grants. Just as the Central Park Conservancy raises money and operates much of Central Park, FOL would be very effective, with the support of city officials, in carrying out the vision of a successful regional arts venue.
To honor the memory of the “father” of Jersey City historic preservation, Theodore Conrad, and to give the deserved role to the inspiring volunteers of FOL, I urge Mayor Glenn Cunningham and the City Council to give the lease and license to the people who have worked with an admirable community spirit for years for the theater’s rebirth.
Sam Pesin