Whiteside Theatre News

Reel Love Stories Tour on February 12th at 3 PM

2012-01-25T16:23:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, February 12th, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be conducting the Reel Love Stories tour of the theatre at 3 PM. Members can purchase tickets for half price!

This tour involves a walk through history to the present day and the true love stories of the people who met here, dated here, and fell in love. A great romantic date choice! The tour will start at 3 PM.

Tours are $10 for the general public and $5 for Members. Admission tickets can be purchased at the theatre. Box office opens about 30 minutes before the tour. Cameras and other recording devices are not allowed.

Reserve your space today by sending an email to reservations@whitesidetheatre.org. We can only guarantee email reservations until 11pm Saturday night (the 11th), due to the speed of the email system.

Whiteside Theatre's 89th Birthday Bash: Stand Up Comedy OVER 21 ONLY

2011-10-31T18:15:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, November 12th, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be celebrating the 89th birthday of the Whiteside Theatre, opened on November 9th of 1922. There will be an over 21 stand up comedy show at 8 PM with Chris Warren of the Brickwall Comedy Club - Eugene, Oregon and Frank King of the White Collar Comedy Tour!

About Chris Warren:
Chris Warren, The Politically Incorrect Comic has been spewing forth his rhetoric on stages from coast to coast and throughout the world for over 24 years, delighting audiences with his high energy, fast-paced style. He attacks touchy subjects with killer humor and his disarming smile so that even those who adamantly disagree with him still roar with laughter and approval. His humor has taken him across the globe, with stops in Iraq… including Baghdad, Mosul, Tikrit, and Fallujah…Bahrain, Japan, London, Amsterdam, The Caribbean, and all across Canada. His trip overseas to the Persian Gulf as part of "Comics on Duty World Tour" was a great success. His 2005 tour of Iraq was with The Texas National Guard where he was the sole comic on the trip. Due to its incredible success, Chris was invited to perform for the troops in New Orleans in the aftermath of Katrina, the only comic in the country to do so.

About Frank King:
Featured on CNN’s Business Unusual, and a writer for Jay Leno for the last two decades, Frank King has been entertaining (and on occasion, educating) convention attendees on the corporate comedy speaking circuit since 1985. He was a quarter-finalist on Star Search.... he lost to a puppet. He's also appeared on An Evening at the Improv, Showtime's Comedy Club Network, and starred in an episode of Bananas on PAX TV. He's opened up for a number of well known entertainers - among them, Jeff Foxworthy, Ron White, Bill Engval, Adam Sandler, and Jerry Seinfeld.

Come downtown to celebrate this important Corvallis landmark's 89th birthday!

Tickets are $12.50 and can be purchased at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/209964

Whiteside Theatre's 89th Birthday Bash - Family Fun!

2011-10-31T18:08:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, November 12th, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be celebrating the 89th birthday of the Whiteside Theatre, opened on November 9th of 1922. There will be a family fun event at 1 PM with juggling by the Corvallis Throwing Department and magic by Steve Peterson of Minor Miracles Magic! We will sing happy birthday to the theatre and enjoy cake under the marquee at the end of the event.

Steve Peterson has been performing his Minor Miracles and Mirthful Magical Mysteries for over 50 years, appearing at fairs, corporate events, and private parties. He offers a variety of magical performances, from sleight-of-hand stage acts to strolling close-up magic and comedy kid shows. For more information, visit the Minor Miracles web site at: http://minor-miracles.net/

Come downtown to celebrate this important Corvallis landmark's 89th birthday!

Trick or Treat in Downtown Corvallis, Oct 31, 2-6pm

2011-10-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hey, Kids! Get dressed up in your Halloween costume, bring an adult with you and head to Downtown Corvallis for Trick or Treat on Monday, October 31, 2-6 pm. Friendly Downtown Corvallis Association-member businesses will have Halloween treats for you.

You can also enter a fun costume contest sponsored by the Downtown Corvallis Association and the Whiteside Theater Foundation. Visit the Whiteside during the event to have a photo taken and enter the contest. Winning entries will receive a DCA Gift Certificate, that you can spend like cash at any participating DCA-Member business!

2nd Annual Whiteside Theatre Benefit Concert

2011-10-20T09:37:00.000-07:00

On Oct 29th, starting at 1:00 pm, the "Frightside Jam" will host 12+ entertainers throughout the day/evening for a Halloween-themed event. This is the first event in almost a decade and the first time ever the Whiteside Theatre has hosted live Rock, Bluegrass, Jazz, Funk and comedy. The foundation is excited to showcase local and semi-local acts in this fantastic 800-seat venue. All proceeds will go to the continued efforts of rehabilitating the theatre to its fullest potential.

The concert will take place at the Whiteside Theatre, 361 SW Madison Avenue, Corvallis, OR (Map).

Want to find out more? See our Jam page at whitesidetheatre.org, or email us at info@whitesidetheatre.org.

See you at the show!

Whiteside Theatre Foundation Elects New Officers

2011-07-24T07:49:00.001-07:00

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation held its annual meeting in June. All Directors were re-elected, but some new Board Officers were elected due to term limits. The new Officers are; Board Chair, George Pearson; Vice Chair, Louise-Annette Burgess; and Treasurer, Bob Newton. Doug Sackinger continues as Secretary.

First Flush Tours on June 4th!

2011-05-14T13:26:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 4th, at 10:30am, and 11:30am, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be conducting tours of the theatre that include the newly rehabilitated restrooms on the mezzanine level. The tours are $5 each, and there is a limit of 35 tourists per tour.. Because the bathrooms are on the mezzanine level, this tour requires people to negotiate some stairs (15 each going up and down). No cameras or recording devices are allowed.

Reservations for the tours can be made by emailing reservations@whitesidetheatre.org. We can only accept email reservations until 11pm on Friday, June 3rd, owing to the speed of the email system. All people entering the theatre must have a signed Liability Waiver Form. Please arrive a few minutes early to fill out the form. If you would like to bring one filled out to save time, you can download it here.

Admission can be paid in advance from 9:30am to 11:30am on Saturday, June 4th, in front of the theatre. We cannot accept credit cards at this time, and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. We can accept cash and personal checks.

Come see the progress we’ve made and help support the further rehabilitation of the Whiteside Theatre!

Movie Memories & Mementos Tours on May 14th

2011-04-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

In honor of Historic Preservation Month, a selection of photos, memories and mementos already collected by the Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be displayed. Visitors will be encouraged to take a free tour, bring memorabilia (ticket stubs, posters, artifacts, etc.) for video recording, and to share their memories of The Whiteside Theatre.

Free Tours at 10 AM, 10:30 AM, 11 AM, and 11:30 AM! Bring your memories or mementos of The Whiteside Theatre to share with professional videographer John Harris of Horsepower Productions for recording and sharing.

Each tour is limited to 35 guests, and lasts 15-20 minutes. You can reserve a spot on one of the the tours by sending an email to: reservations@whitesidetheatre.org. All people entering the theatre must have a signed Liability Waiver Form. Please arrive a few minutes early to fill out the form. If you would like to bring one filled out to save time, you can download it here.

Join us in celebrating this beautiful piece of Corvallis' history.

The theatre is located at 361 SW Madison Avenue, Corvallis (Map).

Whiteside Theatre Benefit

2011-02-22T19:40:00.000-08:00

February 28, 2011 is dedicated to the Whiteside Theatre Foundation at the Enoteca Wine and Coffee Bar. Enoteca donates 20% of its profits on selected Mondays to a local non-profit agency. The Whiteside Theatre Foundation is currently raising funds to rehabilitate and reopen the Whiteside Theatre! Come in and have a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. You can also buy a bottle of wine and take it home for dinner and know that part of the money you spend will be donated to a local non profit agency.

The event will last from 3pm to 11pm. Enoteca is located in the Renaissance Building at 136 SW Washington in Downtown Corvallis.

Reservation Difficulties

2011-02-11T17:13:00.000-08:00

We are not receiving all reservations that have been sent using our webform. Please send any reservations by email to reservations@whitesidetheatre.org.

We apologize for any inconvenience and are looking into the problem.

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation

Reel Love Stories Tour on February 12th at 1pm

2011-01-30T07:44:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, February 12th, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be conducting the Reel Love Stories tour of the theatre at 1 PM. Members can purchase tickets for half price!

This tour involves a walk through history to the present day and the true love stories of the people who met here, dated here, and fell in love. A great romantic date choice! The tour will start at 1 PM, and is Accessible, and if it sells out, another tour will be added at 2 PM.

Tours are limited to 35 tourists per tour and are $10 for the general public and $5 for Members. Admission can be paid in advance on Feb. 12th from 12 PM - 1 PM at the theatre. Cameras and other recording devices are not allowed.

Reserve your space today by sending an email to reservations@whitesidetheatre.org. We can only guarantee email reservations until 11pm Friday night (the 11th), due to the speed of the email system.

This event is being sponsored by Flat Tail Brewing. Every tour purchased will also receive a valuable lunch or dinner coupon for dine in meals. A great romantic choice!

Want to save yourself some time before your tour? Everyone entering the theatre must sign a waiver form. We now have the form available for download as a PDF here. You can print your own, fill it out, and bring it with you, and save yourself doing it that day when you arrive at the theatre. If you have been in the theatre for a previous tour, or as a volunteer, we have your waiver on file. We can look up your name, so you won't need to fill out another waiver if you've done so before.

Jeannette Arbogast (1924-2010)

2011-01-26T02:45:00.000-08:00

We are mourning the loss of one of our founding members, Jeanette Arbogast. Jeanette was an instrumental founding member of The Whiteside Theatre Foundation. She contributed much to many early planning discussions including many money saving ideas. She will be missed greatly and remembered fondly.

We at the Whiteside Theatre Foundation understand that the Gazette-Times listed the WTF as one of several charities/non-profits that were supported by Jeannette. If you wish to donate to the Whiteside Theatre Foundation in Jeannette's memory, click here.

Thank you,

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation

Santa at the Whiteside Dec. 11th and 18th

2010-11-07T08:57:00.000-08:00

Santa will be in front of the Whiteside Theatre from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, Dec. 11th and 18th. A FREE photo will be taken and sent to your email. You will need to fill out a form with your email address so that we can email the photo to you. If you would like to fill out this form ahead of time, it is available for download here. Just fill it out, bring it with you and stop by the table to get a number.

The FREE Holiday Trolley stops downtown between 12pm and 6pm on both of these days, stopping at Peak Sports, Grass Roots Bookstore, and the Toy Factory between 42 and 46 minutes after the hour (The last trolley leaving downtown leaves at 5pm. For more details, visit the Corvallis Transit System website).

Santa is presented by the Whiteside Theatre Foundation and the Downtown Corvallis Association. The Whiteside Theatre is at 361 SW Madison Avenue, on the corner of 4th and Madison.

Happy Holidays!

Whiteside 88th Birthday Party on Nov. 6th!

2010-10-31T16:38:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, November 6th, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be celebrating the 88th birthday of the Whiteside Theatre, opened on November 9th of 1922. There will be free cupcakes. Free tours of the theatre will start at 11 am, 11:30 am, 12 pm, and 12:30 pm, and will last about 20 minutes.

The number of places is limited to 35 for each tour. Reservations can be made until 5pm Friday (Nov. 5th) by emailing to reservations@whitesidetheatre.org. All other places are on a first-come basis the day of the tours. Sign-up sheets will be available in front of the theatre, starting shortly before 11 am on that day. The address is 361 SW Madison Avenue. Come downtown to celebrate this important Corvallis landmark's 88th birthday!

Want to save yourself some time before your tour? Everyone entering the theatre must sign a waiver form. We now have the form available for download as a PDF here. You can print your own, fill it out, and bring it with you, and save yourself doing it that day when you arrive at the theatre. If you have been in the theatre for a previous tour, or as a volunteer, we have your waiver on file. We can look up your name, so you won't need to fill out another waiver if you've done so before.

7pm Ghost Tour is Full!

2010-10-29T16:10:00.001-07:00

The 7pm Ghosts of the Whiteside Tour is full. We can still take email reservations at ghosttour@whitesidetheatre.org for the 8pm tour until 5pm. After that, we will be at the theatre preparing for the tours.

Ghosts of the Whiteside Tours on Oct 29th!

2010-10-06T20:02:00.000-07:00

Tour an actual haunted building! Meet the ghosts of Charles, Lillian, and the other subtle spirits surrounding us! Join our guides on a tour through Corvallis' creepy history and current unexplained phenomenon. The frights are found in our sleep-depriving stories of this surprising cinema! $10 for the general public and $5 for Members of The Whiteside Theatre Foundation. Join now and save!

7 PM tour & 8 PM tour available. Reserve your space today by sending an email to ghosttour@whitesidetheatre.org

This is not a funhouse-style attraction - no actors will reach out to grab you. This tour is recommended for those 16 & older and is not designed for children due to mature themes.

The 7 PM tour contains 52 stairs on the walking route and the tour group is limited to 25 tourists. The 8 PM tour is the same spook-tacular tour without going up or down any stairs. IF both the 7 PM and 8 PM tours are sold out, a 9 PM tour will be added. Admission can be paid in advance on Oct. 29th from 2 - 6 PM at the theatre. Cameras and all other recording devices are not allowed.

Whiteside Theatre Completes Structural Assessment

2010-09-21T06:50:00.000-07:00

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation recently completed a Structural Engineering Analysis of the 1922 downtown landmark. "We are delighted that the Whiteside's concrete and steel inner structure has been confirmed to be as reliable as we anticipated," said Louise-Annette Burgess, Foundation Chair.

"We found very little deterioration or decay," said John Evans of Pillar Consulting Group, Inc., the local professional team conducting the evaluation. "We found some potential deterioration of mortar around the fire escape, and a concrete column with rebar cut and removed at a column corner." "We understand that the column was cut in the 1920s to accommodate organ pipe installation," said Burgess. "Our next steps include a load-bearing test of the fire escape and column repair," she continued.

The Assessment also provided a voluntary seismic evaluation of the structure that identified potential upgrades. "Many of these items are simple to implement," said Burgess, "like buttoning-up the marquee and the theatre’s vertical corner sign." Future engineering studies will further analyze specific elements of the building as well as design details for retrofit items. "We now have a package of recommended items to include as part of a future re-roofing project," added Burgess.

The Structural Evaluation is one part of the Foundation’s Act One Rehabilitation project to ready the historic theatre for occupancy. Another component, repair of the failed sewer that closed the Whiteside in 2002, is now also completed. An assessment of the heating, ventilating and air-conditioning system and an electrical evaluation are the remaining threshold projects.

The Structural Engineering Assessment was funded by grants from the Pacific Northwest Preservation Fund of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Oregon Cultural Trust, investing in Oregon's arts, humanities and heritage, and private donations.

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation envisions a multi-purpose entertainment and events venue that honors the Whiteside Theatre’s role as an exceptional historic resource, while rehabilitating the structure in the most environmentally sensitive manner. To donate, become a member, or to volunteer, email info@WhitesideTheatre.org.

Whiteside Jam Moved to Fairgrounds Auditorium

2010-09-18T13:37:00.001-07:00

The Whiteside Jam Theatre Benefit Concert has moved indoors to the Benton County Fairgrounds Auditorium due to the inclement weather. All scheduled activities will still take place.

Come out and see the performers! Tickets are just $12 for 12 hours of entertainment. For a full schedule, see our Whiteside Jam page at http://whitesidetheatre.org/whitesidejam.php.

Thank You for your support!

Swifts Spotted at the Whiteside!

2010-08-30T20:12:00.001-07:00

The swifts have returned to the Whiteside!.. The swifts are small birds that sometimes stop at the Whiteside during their annual migration south. The entire flock, moving as one, fly into the chimney and sleep there for the night, usually after feeding in the evening.

The best time to view them is right before dusk, so you can watch them funnel into the chimney. Don't worry, that chimney hasn't been used for decades by anyone except the swifts.

The swifts passed the Whiteside by last year, but huge numbers were seen in Albany. There will probably be other flocks of them stopping by on their way south, and some flocks stay several days if the feeding is good. Come down to the Whiteside about a half hour before dusk and look up above the theatre. Good viewing spots are the alley east of the theatre, and along the west side of 4th street. The chimney is in the northeast corner of the roof.

WHITESIDE WATERWORKS PHASE 1 UNDERWAY

2010-08-22T16:24:00.000-07:00

Plumbing engineers cut ground to replace the Whiteside Theatre sewer line on Monday. The failed sewer line closed the downtown theatre in January, 2002, when The Fellowship of the Ring was the last cinema feature. In 2008, after the Whiteside Theatre Foundation acquired the movie palace, the group developed a detailed rehabilitation plan that included sewer line repair as a high priority.

"This is a great step forward for the Whiteside," said Doug Sackinger, who leads the Waterworks project for the Whiteside Theatre Foundation. "We have an outstanding team with Mike Blair, of Infrastructure Solutions Engineering, LLC, organizing the project and with local contractor Terry Hackenbruck, and Sure-Flow, Inc of Albany." The sewer is in; connections replaced; alley back-filled; and line scoped and approved by the City Building official.

Technicians with K&R Plumbing, Clackamas, replaced the failed sewer, that runs east from the Whiteside to the alley, with a pipe bursting technique for installing underground pipelines. Blair explained: "Pipe Bursting employs high-powered piercing tools with special bursting heads to smash through old service lines while pulling in new replacement lines. The technique is easy on adjacent utilities because it follows an existing pipe path." "Because pipe bursting is trenchless, there's a minimum of excavation required, reducing costs; this approach allows work in congested places without interfering with normal traffic flow," Blair continued. The work can be done without affecting interior surfaces, an important consideration for the Theatre interior.

"Waterworks Phase 1 and 2, replacing the sewer and restroom plumbing and fixtures, are critical for the overall success of the rehabilitation project," said Louise-Annette Burgess, Chair, Whiteside Theatre Foundation. "When the balance of funding is in place, the mezzanine restrooms will be repaired and repainted, and fixtures reinstalled," continued Burgess.

The Whiteside's Waterworks' Project will restore the 1922 theatre's plumbing to functioning condition supported in part by a grant from the Heritage Programs Division, State Historic Preservation Office, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department; the Oregon Cultural Trust, investing in Oregon's arts, humanities and heritage, and with generous support of private individuals.

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation is a community-based group, dedicated to revitalizing the Whiteside Theatre as a dynamic force for cultural vitality to serve Mid-Willamette Valley residents. The group envisions an economically sustainable multi-purpose entertainment venue that honors the Whiteside Theatre's role as an exceptional historic resource, while rehabilitating the structure in the most practical and environmentally sensitive manner. To donate, become a member, or to volunteer, email info@WhitesideTheatre.org.

Photo Credit: J. Harmon Aug 2010

The Whiteside Jam is September 19th!

2010-08-13T22:22:00.000-07:00

Join us at the Benton County Fairgrounds at 11am on Sunday, Sept. 19th, as the Whiteside Theatre Foundation presents Whiteside Jam: A benefit concert featuring local bands.

For more information, keep checking this news blog and www.whitesidetheatre.org. To receive email updates, or for other inquiries about Whiteside Jam, email us at jam@whitesidetheatre.org.

OREGON CULTURAL TRUST FUNDS WHITESIDE WATERWORKS

2010-07-27T19:15:00.000-07:00

The Oregon Cultural Trust awarded the Whiteside Theatre Foundation a competitive grant for Phase 1 of the Waterworks Project to repair the failed sewer line that closed the downtown theatre in 2002. Waterworks, an essential component of Whiteside's Act I Rehabilitation Plan, will restore the 1922 theatre's plumbing to functioning condition and set necessary groundwork for additional funding needed to reopen the Whiteside Theatre.

The competitive Cultural Development grants provide support to significant cultural programs and projects, preserving and enhancing Oregon's diverse arts, heritage and humanities programs. After a rigorous process including five review panels, the Oregon Cultural Trust board awarded grants in the areas of access, capacity, creativity or preservation. The Whiteside Theatre was one of 57 successful candidates in a field of 212 statewide applicants.

"We are incredibly delighted and appreciative of the Oregon Cultural Trust. Upon completion of the Act I Rehabilitation Plan, we anticipate reopening the doors of the Whiteside Theatre, and to share this beautiful gem with the people of Oregon," said Louise-Annette Burgess, Chair of the Foundation. "Waterworks Phase 1 and 2, replacing the sewer and restroom plumbing and fixtures, is critical for the overall success of the project," continued Burgess, "and this important work is made possible by people who generously donate to the Oregon Cultural Trust."

Additional funds are needed to complete the Act I Rehabilitation plan, for evaluation of the electrical and heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems and repair to the fire escape.

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation is a community-based group, dedicated to revitalizing the Whiteside Theatre as a dynamic force for cultural vitality to serve Mid-Willamette Valley residents. The group envisions an economically sustainable performance hall that honors the Whiteside Theatre's role as an exceptional historic resource, while rehabilitating the structure in the most practical and environmentally sensitive manner. To donate, become a member, or to volunteer, email info@WhitesideTheatre.org.

For additional information about donating to the Oregon Cultural Trust, see our web site or go to www.culturaltrust.org.

A Special Dinner at Aqua to help the Whiteside

2010-07-12T17:54:00.000-07:00

On Monday, August 2nd, from 6-8pm, there will be a special dinner at Aqua in Corvallis to help support the Whiteside Theatre's Waterworks project (repair of the building's plumbing).

Tickets are $60 per person for dinner and beverages (and you may win a prize!). The Aqua Restaurant & Bar is located at 151 NW Monroe Avenue, Corvallis, in the Water Street Market.

If you would like to purchase tickets for this event, or have questions, email us at info@whitesidetheatre.org.

Have an exceptional fine dining experience at one of Corvallis' premiere restaurants and help support the Whiteside!

This event is sponsored in part by Superior Electric, Judson's Plumbing, Pillar Engineering, and Bob Grant Construction.

A Trip to the Elsinore Theatre on July 26th

2010-06-22T18:44:00.000-07:00

On Monday, July 26th, a bus will depart from the Whiteside Theatre at 5 p.m. to travel in style up to a presentation, tour, and WurlitZer organ recital by resident organist extraordinaire Rick Parks. If you have never seen the beautiful Elsinore Theatre, or have never experienced organ music in a theatre space, here's your opportunity. You'll get to meet some nice folks, too! This is a fundraiser for the Whiteside Theatre WaterWorks project (we're fixing the sewer line!). Tickets are $25 each. This includes the bus, wine and cheese on the bus, and a drawing for a framed piece of the actual movie screen from the Whiteside Theatre.

To reserve your spot on the bus, contact us at reservations@whitesidetheatre.org.

The Whiteside's own Mighty WurlitZer organ is being rehabilitated by a group of volunteers. If you are interested in learning the fine art of re-leathering organ pneumatics, or would like to hasten this project along, volunteers and monetary donations are always welcome.

Free Public Tours During Crazy Days

2010-06-22T18:38:00.000-07:00

In support of Crazy Days, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation is offering Free Public Tours of the Whiteside Theatre on July 10th. Tours are at 10am, 10:30am, and 11:00am, and will last approximately 20 minutes. Each tour is limited to 35 guests.

You can reserve a spot on the tour by sending an email to: reservations@whitesidetheatre.org. All people entering the theatre must have a signed Liability Waiver Form. Please arrive a few minutes early to fill out the form. If you would like to bring one filled out to save time, you can download it here.

Join us in celebrating this beautiful piece of Corvallis' history.

The theatre is located at 361 SW Madison Avenue, Corvallis (Map).

Dine Out for the Whiteside and Listen to Rowles & Holst!

2010-05-07T16:02:00.000-07:00

The Whiteside Theatre is having a Dine-Out Benefit at Cloud 9 Bistro & Bar on Tuesday, May 11th. The Dine-Out will be from 5pm-9pm, with music by Rowles & Holst from 6pm-8pm. Cover is $5 per person.

Proceeds go to the Whiteside Theatre Foundation, and will be used to match grants for the Waterworks project.

Cloud 9 is at 126 SW 1st St., Corvallis.

FunDaz Savings Cards Are Here!

2010-05-01T05:27:00.000-07:00

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation is selling FunDaz Savings cards to raise money for the Whiteside Theatre Foundation. The Savings card is like a coupon book, with discounts at retailers, restaurants, lodging, and entertainment spots all over our community and the country. A portion of the proceeds of each card sold goes to help rehabilitate the Whiteside Theatre.

The Savings cards cost $30, and are good for one year from the date of activation. You can see the many available discounts by logging on to the FunDaz website, and entering a city or zip code.

Because there are discounts available all across the U.S. (and parts of Canada), the FunDaz card makes a great gift. Buy a Savings card and send it to anyone. They will activate it using their own zip code, then they can search for discounts within 25, 50, or 100 miles from their location. If you're planning a vacation, just go to the Whiteside Theatre's FunDaz website and put in the zip code of your destination. You can see all of the available discounts on hotels, restaurants, theme parks, and other entertainment.

Your savings card will save you money and buying one will help the Whiteside Theatre. Volunteers from the Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be selling savings cards from May 1st-15th.

Can't find one of our volunteers but want to buy a savings card? Get one today by emailing info@whitesidetheatre.org, or go to www.whitesidetheatrecard.org, to purchase one online.

Free Tours of the Whiteside Theatre May 1st, 10am-12pm

2010-04-24T06:20:00.000-07:00

In support of Preservation Month, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation is offering Free Public Tours of the Whiteside Theatre on May 1st. Tours are at 10am, 10:30am, 11am, and 11:30am, and will last 15-20 minutes. Each tour is limited to 35 guests.

You can reserve a spot on the tour by sending an email to: reservations@whitesidetheatre.org. All people entering the theatre must have a signed Liability Waiver Form. Please arrive a few minutes early to fill out the form. If you would like to bring one filled out to save time, you can download it here.

Join us in celebrating this beautiful piece of Corvallis' history.

The theatre is located at 361 SW Madison Avenue, Corvallis (Map).

Fundraiser at the Flat Tail Pub on April 12th

2010-03-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

On Monday, April 12th, from 11am-11pm, the Flat Tail Pub will be hosting a Dine Out fundraiser for the Whiteside Theatre Foundation. There will be a raffle for door prizes, and Flat Tail Pub will donate a portion of the day's proceeds to the Whiteside Theatre Foundation.

Come out and support the Whiteside Theatre!

The Flat Tail Pub is located at 202 SW 1st St. in Corvallis (Directions).

da Vinci Film Festival Needs Volunteers for Mar 12-14

2010-03-01T19:27:00.000-08:00

The da Vinci Film Festival, whose efforts are supported by the Whiteside Theatre Foundation, are in need of volunteers as ushers and for a few other positions for the weekend of March 12th-14th.

They are looking for people willing to commit to a four-hour shift on Friday evening, Saturday afternoon, Saturday evening, or Sunday afternoon.

If you are interested in helping, please visit the volunteer page of the da Vinci Film Festival website, or contact them here.

Look for the Whiteside Theatre Foundation ad in the program!

Whiteside Theatre Benefit at Cloud 9 on Tuesday, March 9th

2010-02-26T15:50:00.001-08:00

Join us for a Whiteside Theatre Benefit at Cloud 9 Bistro & Bar on Tuesday, March 9th, from 5pm to 9pm. A portion of the evening's proceeds will go to match grants for the Structural Analysis of the Whiteside, the first major step in the rehabilitation of the Theatre. Cloud 9 is at 126 SW 1st St., Corvallis.

See you there!

Big Day Feb. 13th at the Whiteside Theatre

2010-02-12T09:16:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, Saturday, Feb 13th, we will have volunteers under the marquee at the Whiteside from 10 am to 3:30 pm:

We will be selling raffle tickets up until the 3:30 pm drawing of the winner.

We will have our Reel Love Stories Tours at 1 pm and 2 pm.

We will be selling and taking orders for "Screen Kisses".

See details in our other posts at http://whitesidetheatre.org.

Come out Saturday and support the Whiteside Theatre rehabilitation.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Reel Love Stories of The Whiteside Theatre Tour Feb. 13th

2010-01-28T13:30:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, February 13th, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be conducting Love Story tours of the theatre at 1 PM and 2 PM. Members can purchase tickets for half price!

This tour involves a walk through history to the present day and the true love stories of the people who met here, dated here, and fell in love. A great romantic date choice! The tours will start at 1 PM, 2 PM (The 2 PM Tour is an Accessible Tour – same tour as 1 PM only without climbing stairs), and if those are sold out, a tour will be added at 3 PM.

Each tour is limited to 25 tourists per tour and is $10 for the general public and $5 for Members. Admission can be paid in advance on Feb. 13th from 12 PM - 2 PM at the theatre. Cameras and other recording devices are not allowed.

Reserve your space today by sending an email to reservations@whitesidetheatre.org.

Want to save yourself some time before your tour? Everyone entering the theatre must sign a waiver form. We now have the form available for download as a PDF here. You can print your own, fill it out, and bring it with you, and save yourself doing it that day when you arrive at the theatre. If you have been in the theatre for a previous tour, or as a volunteer, we have your waiver on file. We can look up your name, so you won't need to fill out another waiver if you've done so before.

Buy a Screen Kiss February 13th!

2010-01-28T13:29:00.001-08:00

Screen Kiss: NOW is your chance to purchase your very own piece of The Historic Whiteside Theatre Screen! On sale in front of The Whiteside Theatre on February 13th from 12 PM to 3:30 - YOU can purchase a piece of history! Only $20 for a framed limited edition item. Makes a great Valentine's gift!

Whiteside Theatre Foundation Kiss Raffle 2010

2010-01-26T15:18:00.000-08:00

Tickets are: 1 for $1 each

6 for $5 or 15 for $10

On Saturday, February 13^th at 3:30 PM under the marquee of The Whiteside Theatre a winning ticket will be selected by a kiss!

This is a 50/50 raffle: The Grand prize winner receives HALF the proceeds from the raffle and the other half goes to The Whiteside Theatre Foundation, to help rehabilitate the theatre.

Tickets are on sale now from Board Members and volunteers of The Whiteside Theatre Foundation.

The Kiss Raffle 2010 is a benefit for The Whiteside Theatre Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Whiteside Theatre Foundation supports a multi-purpose entertainment and events venue in the restored historic Whiteside Theatre that enhances economic vitality and cultural diversity of downtown Corvallis for the benefit of the entire community.

Stories of the Whiteside Theatre

2010-01-06T15:17:00.000-08:00

Do you have photos or a story to share about the Whiteside Theatre?

Whiteside Theatre Foundation volunteers are documenting your stories about the Whiteside during the month of January. If you have a story you want to share, email your contact information the Whiteside Theatre Foundation, and we'll get in touch with you to make arrangements.

Christmas Tree Available

2009-12-19T19:28:00.000-08:00

The Whiteside Theatre has a Christmas tree left over from Santa's visit that we need someone to adopt. Do you know someone who needs a tree this year? The tree would need to be picked up at the Whiteside Theatre. If you are interested in this tree, please send us an email.

Santa at the Whiteside on the 12th and 19th

2009-12-06T07:52:00.001-08:00

Santa will be in front of the Whiteside Theatre from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, Dec. 12th and 19th. A FREE photo will be taken and sent to your email. You will need to fill out a form with your email address so that we can email the photo to you. If you would like to fill out this form ahead of time, it is available for download here. Just fill it out, bring it with you and stop by the table to get a number.

The FREE Holiday Trolley stops at Burst's/Whiteside Theatre at 48 minutes past the hour between 12pm and 6pm on both of these days (The last trolley leaving downtown leaves at 5pm. For more details, visit the Corvallis Transit System website).

Santa is presented by the Whiteside Theatre Foundation and the Downtown Corvallis Association. The Whiteside Theatre is at 361 SW Madison Avenue, on the corner of 4th and Madison.

Happy Holidays!

Whiteside Theatre Receives Waterworks Grant

2009-11-23T14:09:00.000-08:00

Preserving Oregon awarded the Whiteside Theatre Foundation $19,210 to partially fund the Waterworks project. Twelve other groups, including two other historic theaters, the Hollywood, Portland, and the Liberty, Astoria, also received funding.

The Heritage Programs Division, State Historic Preservation Office, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department earmarked $250,000 of Lottery funds for its Preserving Oregon Grant program for the 2009-11 Biennium. The grants support rehabilitation work for the preservation of historic resources listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Higher priority is given to properties that offer the greatest public benefit through visual access and interpretive and educational value. The maximum award limit is $20,000.

The Waterworks project will return the plumbing system of the Whiteside Theatre to a functioning condition. As one of four requirements of the Corvallis Building Department, Waterworks is a building code threshold that must be met before any cultural activity of any kind may occur in the historic theatre. The plumbing system and fixtures need to be upgraded and the failed sewer line, that closed the Whiteside in 2002, must be replaced. Estimated total cost of the Waterworks project is $48,432.

"The prestige of Preservation Oregon among the granting and donor communities will benefit us in the future, as we seek additional funding for The Whiteside Theatre and the Waterworks project in particular. This is a great step forward for us and our community," reported Louise-Annette Burgess, Chair, Whiteside Theatre Foundation.

For more information or to volunteer, visit WhitesideTheatre.org.

Free Public Tours of the Whiteside Theatre on Dec. 5th

2009-11-16T21:38:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 5th, Whiteside Theatre Foundation volunteers will be conducting free tours of the Whiteside Theatre. The tours will start at 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm, and will last about 20 minutes.

The number of places is limited to 34 for each tour, and no reservations can be made before the the day of the tours. Sign-up sheets will be available in front of the theatre, starting shortly before 1:00 pm on that day. The address is 361 SW Madison Avenue. Come downtown to see and hear about this important Corvallis landmark.

Want to save yourself some time before your tour? Everyone entering the theatre must sign a waiver form. We now have the form available for download as a PDF here. You can print your own, fill it out, and bring it with you, and save yourself doing it that day when you arrive at the theatre. If you have been in the theatre for a previous tour, or as a volunteer, we have your waiver on file. We can look up your name, so you won't need to fill out another waiver if you've done so before.

Join Us at the Parade on Nov. 27th

2009-11-14T17:42:00.000-08:00

Come join us for Corvallis' Annual Christmas Parade on Friday, November 27th, from 5:30 PM until the parade ends.

We will have an information table under the marquee at the theatre, where we will be selling ornaments, note cards, and art prints.

Hope to see you there !

November 7th - Happy 87th Birthday to the Whiteside Theatre!

2009-11-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

Come celebrate the 87th birthday of the Theatre on Saturday, November 7th, 2009, 11am-1pm under the historic marquee at 361 SW Madison Avenue.

Stop by and join the fun, learn about this beautiful historic building and it's exciting future!

Fall Membership Drive

2009-10-16T20:28:00.000-07:00

Join today: be a part of the rehabilitation! You are invited to participate in The Whiteside Theatre Foundation's Fall Membership Drive to win the Grand Prize of a marvelous movie-themed gift basket and other prizes to be given away at our 87th Birthday Party on November 7, 2009 (11am-1pm).

Each new member gets one entry into the drawing and each member who refers someone who becomes a member also gets an entry into the drawing! You need not be present to win.

Join today: whitesidetheatre.org

"Ghosts of the Whiteside" Tour

2009-10-16T19:59:00.000-07:00

Tour an actual haunted building! Meet the ghosts of Charles, Lillian, and the other subtle spirits surrounding us! Join our guides on a tour through Corvallis' creepy history and current unexplained phenomenon. The frights are found in our sleep-depriving stories of this surprising cinema! $10 for the general public and $5 for Members of The Whiteside Theatre Foundation. Join now and save!

7 PM tour & 8 PM tour available. Reserve your space today by sending an email to ghosttour@whitesidetheatre.org

This is not a funhouse-style attraction - no actors will reach out to grab you. This tour is recommended for those 16 & older and is not designed for children due to mature themes.

The 7 PM tour contains 52 stairs on the walking route and the tour group is limited to 25 tourists. The 8 PM tour is the same spook-tacular tour without going up or down any stairs. IF both the 7 PM and 8 PM tours are sold out, a 9 PM tour will be added. Admission can be paid in advance on Oct. 30th from 2 - 6 PM at the theatre. Cameras and all other recording devices are not allowed.

No Swifts Sighted

2009-10-12T19:34:00.000-07:00

Still no Vaux's swifts sighted. We've checked every day, but they seem to be eluding us.

Still No Swifts

2009-10-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

No more swifts have been sighted since a few days ago. There are sightings of flocks still in Albany, so they may just be taking awhile to move this way.

Downtown Trick or Treat and Costume Contest

2009-10-05T16:23:00.000-07:00

Kids, get all dressed up in your favorite Halloween costume, bring an adult with you, and head for Downtown Corvallis to Trick or Treat on Friday October 30 from 2pm to 6pm! Downtown Corvallis Association member businesses will have Halloween treats and you can enter the costume contest and have your picture taken at the Whiteside Theatre!

FREE!

No Swifts Tonight

2009-10-04T19:16:00.001-07:00

After seeing six swifts around the theatre last night, we saw none today. Stay tuned ...

Only a Few Swifts

2009-10-02T21:02:00.000-07:00

We saw three swifts this evening flying around above the Whiteside. We lost sight of them, so we don't know if they flew off or went into the chimney.

Vaux's Swifts Sighted in Albany This Morning

2009-10-02T13:28:00.000-07:00

Some swifts were spotted in Albany this morning, heading south. We will probably see them at the Whiteside for the next few nights. We will do an update tonight whether we see any or not.

Public Meeting at the Library Wednesday Night

2009-09-29T07:17:00.000-07:00

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be holding a public meeting on Wednesday, September 30th, from 7pm to 9pm. The meeting will take place in the large meeting room at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library, 645 NW Monroe Ave, Corvallis.

Come see what we've accomplished in the last year, and what we have planned for the future.

Still No Swifts...

2009-09-29T07:14:00.000-07:00

But with the rain here, and cooler temperatures, they will probably start heading south in larger numbers, and we should see them at the Whiteside.

Still no Vaux's swifts

2009-09-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

We still haven't sighted swifts at the Whiteside. This is probably due to the warm weather, which allows them to feed for longer at higher latitudes.

Still Waiting On the Swifts

2009-09-15T21:14:00.000-07:00

No swifts again this evening. We'll keep checking.

The Vaux's Swifts Are Coming!

2009-09-03T15:16:00.000-07:00

Every year, the migration of the Vaux's swifts brings them through Corvallis, where some of them stay overnight in the Whiteside Theatre chimney (The chimney is unused, except for the swifts). They fly around and around, silhouetted against the receding daylight, then swoop down the chimney as one, disappearing into it for the night. It's an amazing thing to see!

Thing is, they usually don't give any advance notice of when they're going to stop by. Last year, they came through around the third week of September. The best spots for viewing the Whiteside Theatre chimney are from the West side of 4th Street, or the alley on the north side of Madison Avenue (between Zooey's and Talisman Jewelers).

Keep checking this space and we'll let you know as soon as they've been sighted. There will also be notices on Facebook and Twitter. Don't miss this annual display by these incredible birds!

Whiteside Theatre Public Meeting on Sept. 30th

2009-09-01T18:05:00.000-07:00

Use GoodSearch and Help the Whiteside

2009-09-01T14:34:00.000-07:00

We are now on GoodSearch and GoodShop! You can help the Whiteside Theatre earn money when you search or shop the internet. Powered by Yahoo Search, GoodSearch is a new search engine that donates half of it's advertising revenue, about a penny per search, for the charities its users designate. See how on our Contribute page.

Tours of the Whiteside Theatre on September 26th!

2009-08-18T20:09:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 26th, Whiteside Theatre Foundation volunteers will be conducting tours of the Whiteside Theatre. The tours will start at 12:00 pm, 12:30 pm, 1:00 pm, and 1:30 pm, and will last about 20 minutes.

The number of places is limited, and no reservations can be made before the the day of the tours. Sign-up sheets will be available in front of the theatre, starting shortly before 12:00 pm on that day. The address is 361 SW Madison Avenue. Come downtown to see and hear about this important Corvallis landmark.

Want to save yourself some time before your tour? Everyone entering the theatre must sign a waiver form. We now have the form available for download as a PDF here. You can print your own, fill it out, and bring it with you, and save yourself doing it that day when you arrive at the theatre. If you have been in the theatre for a previous tour, or as a volunteer, we have your waiver on file. We can look up your name, so you won't need to fill out another waiver if you've done so before.

Need a ride downtown? Corvallis Transit System is offering free bus rides on Sept 26th and 27th during Corvallis Fall Festival 2009, and the Downtown Transit Center is just 2 blocks from the Whiteside Theatre! For more information, click here.

OREGON CULTURAL TRUST SUPPORTS WHITESIDE THEATRE

2009-08-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

The Oregon Cultural Trust has awarded the Whiteside Theatre Foundation $8,000 toward a structural evaluation of the 1922 Whiteside Theatre. This project will lay necessary groundwork for further analyses, fundraising, and planning toward the reopening of the Whiteside Theatre.

Trust Manager Kimberly Howard observed, "The Trust received 144 eligible applications. The 48 funded projects represent important efforts, from preserving our history and celebrating our heritage, to bringing Oregon writers and artists to communities across the state, and fostering creative expression in towns large and small."

The competitive Cultural Development grants provide support to significant cultural programs and projects, preserving and enhancing Oregon's diverse arts, heritage and humanities programs. After a rigorous process that included five review panels before a decision by the Trust board, applicants received funding in the areas of Access, Capacity, Creativity or Preservation. The Whiteside Theatre was ranked the second highest priority in the state by the Preservation Panel.

"We need experienced engineers who are familiar with our area to assure that our rehabilitation of the Whiteside will protect the theatre itself, and everyone who enters the structure," said Louise-Annette Burgess, Chair, Whiteside Theatre Foundation. "This welcome support of the Oregon Cultural Trust brings us to 60% of the funds needed for this phase of building systems evaluations that will form the foundation for architectural plans for the Whiteside rehabilitation," Burgess continued.

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation is a community-based group, dedicated to revitalizing the Whiteside Theatre as a dynamic force for cultural vitality to serve Mid-Willamette Valley residents. The group envisions an economically sustainable performance hall that honors the Whiteside Theatre's role as an exceptional historic resource, while rehabilitating the structure in the most practical and environmentally sensitive manner.

NATIONAL TRUST LENDS SUPPORT TO THE WHITESIDE THEATRE FOUNDATION

2009-08-11T14:29:00.000-07:00

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation, Corvallis, Oregon, today was awarded a $5,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Pacific Northwest Preservation Fund for projects in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. The seed grant funds will be used to hire a consultant to produce a structural evaluation of the 1922 Whiteside Theatre. Located in downtown Corvallis, the Whiteside Theatre has been vacant since 2002. This project will lay the necessary groundwork for further analyses, fundraising, and planning toward the reopening of the Whiteside Theatre. The Whiteside Theatre Foundation received the building as a gift from the Regal Entertainment Group in May, 2008.

In announcing the grant, National Trust President, Richard Moe said, "With these start-up dollars, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation joins the hundreds of other communities and organizations across the country actively ensuring that America's architectural and cultural herbage is preserved."

The program for dispensing small grants for local projects is administered by the National Trust Preservation Fund, which holds three competitive funding rounds annually. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 are awarded to nonprofit groups and public agencies and must be matched at least dollar for dollar with public or private funds. "The National Trust is very supportive of your worthwhile preservation activity. It was selected from a large number of qualified applicants competing for a very limited amount of funds," commented Anthea Hartig, Director, Western Office of the National Trust.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a nonprofit membership organization chartered by congress to encourage public participation in all aspects of historic preservation.

Whiteside Theatre Foundation Annual Membership Meeting

2009-05-18T11:23:00.000-07:00

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation is holding its Annual Membership Meeting on June 17th at 7 pm. Only Members in good standing are allowed to attend, but it's not too late! If you become a Member or renew an existing membership on or before June 9th, you will be eligible to attend the meeting and vote for the new Board of Directors.

The easiest way to join is to go to our web site, http://whitesidetheatre.org, and click on the 'Contribute' tab. You can also click on the 'Contact' tab and email us for other ways to join.

Update on May 2nd Gift Basket Silent Auction

2009-04-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

The baskets are now viewable online. Click on the link or see the previous post for details.

Tours of the Whiteside Theatre on May 16th!

2009-04-06T19:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, May 16th, from 9am to 12 noon, Whiteside Theatre Foundation volunteers will be conducting tours of the Whiteside Theatre. There will be 6 tours in all, starting each half-hour, and running 15-20 minutes. The number of places is limited, and no reservations can be made before the day of the tours. Sign-up sheets will be available in front of the theatre, starting shortly before 9am on that day. Come downtown and take a walk through a special piece of Corvallis' history.

Silent Auction of Gift Baskets on May 2nd

2009-04-06T18:49:00.000-07:00

The Whiteside Theatre will hold a silent auction of gift baskets on Saturday, May 2nd, from 10am to 2pm, in front of the theatre (361 SW Madison Avenue). The gift baskets will be displayed at 10am, with the closing of bidding staggered between 1:30pm and 2pm. Watch this space for information on the various baskets, then come down on the 2nd to look them over and bid for the one(s) you want. Each of these baskets is unique, and would make a great gift for Mother's Day, Father's Day, or a graduation (Mother's Day is May 10th. Father's Day is June 17th).

Good luck on your bid!

Update: The baskets are now viewable online, with a description of the contents.

Here are the lot numbers and titles:

Lot #5 - Disney Memories
Lot #6 - Into the Wild
Lot #10 - Let's Eat
Lot #11 - Lullaby Dolls
Lot #12 - Celtic Collection
Lot #15 - Family Night
Lot #16 - Circa 1929
Lot #17 - Light Up Your Life
Lot #18 - Time to Camp
Lot #20 - Multi-Kulti Musik
Lot #22 - Patriotic Picnic
Lot #23 - South of the Border
Lot #24 - Vintage Linens
Lot #25 - Exotic Textiles
Lot #26 - Victoriana
Lot #27 - Saturday Night
Lot #30 - Kitchen Reds
Lot #31 - Sunshine
Lot #32 - Corvallis Brewing Supply
Lot #33 - Sustainable You
Lot #35 - For Your Eyes Only
Lot #38 - Button Up

Whiteside Theatre Foundation at EarthFaire

2009-04-06T18:41:00.000-07:00

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation will have an information table at EarthFaire 2009. There will be volunteers there to answer questions from 10am to 2pm, Saturday, April 18th, on 1st Street between Monroe and Madison Avenues. The Whiteside Theatre Foundation is committed to sustainability and is delighted to join our neighbors in celebrating Earth Week!

Whiteside Theatre Listed in National Register of Historic Places

2009-03-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

The Oregon State Historic Preservation Office announced today the listing of the Whiteside Theatre in the National Register of Historic Places. Oregon's State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation unanimously recommended the Whiteside's nomination in October, 2008.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's cultural resources worthy of preservation, and part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect our historic resources. Administered by the National Park Service under the Department of Interior, National Register properties must demonstrate significance in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, or culture, and contribute to an understanding of the historical and cultural foundations of the nation.

"We are extremely proud that the Whiteside has received this honor," said Louise-Annette Burgess, chair of the Whiteside Theatre Foundation. "The Whiteside joins an elite group of only fourteen Oregon theatres distinguished with this recognition, and this designation enhances the Whiteside's ability to successfully compete for rehabilitation funding."

In 1922, Henderson Ryan designed the Italian Renassiance theatre for Samuel and George Whiteside. The theatre is one of only 22 Italian Renaissance National Register resources in Oregon, and was nominated for its high artistic values. In terms of scale, design, and prominence, the Whiteside Theatre remains an iconic structure, both for its role in the community as a movie palace and in original design integrity. Though the building suffered two devastating fires in 1927 and 1936, the Whiteside family renovated and continued to own the theatre until 1985. A massive, Streamline, neon marquee, added in 1950, spans the front of the building. The Whiteside family, early Corvallis entrepreneurs, has the distinction of being the oldest continuous theatre operators in Oregon.

"While there remains much to do for the Whiteside, listing in the National Register is a substantial benchmark in the story of the Theatre, downtown Corvallis, and the community overall," said Burgess.

WHITESIDE FOUNDATION CREATES ENDOWMENT

2009-03-02T10:36:00.000-08:00

Following a successful campaign, the Whiteside Theatre Foundation has created an endowment within the Benton County Foundation to support the long-term financial needs of the Whiteside Theatre.

"The consistently sound financial stewardship of the Benton County Foundation in the past assures us that our endowed funds will be managed prudently and professionally, now and in the future," said Louise-Annette Burgess, Chair, Whiteside Theatre Foundation. "Creating an endowment is a huge step forward for the Whiteside Theatre," Burgess continued, "and one that we take now, because of community support. Thank you to those who helped with the initial campaign gifts and to all those who will give in the future."

"Even with our immediate financial needs, building a financially sustainable future for the Whiteside is key to responsible fiscal leadership. We are delighted to be partnering with the Benton County Foundation, which underscores the Whiteside's role as a community-wide resource."

"The service that the Benton County Foundation provides in our community is the management of endowments. We welcome the Whiteside to our family of more than 200 endowment funds. Contributions to build the Whiteside Theater Foundation Endowment Fund can be mailed directly to the Benton County Foundation" said Dick Thompson, Executive Director, Benton County Foundation.

Individual donors or corporations who choose to support the success of the Whiteside Theatre in our community now have two options. They can give directly to the Whiteside Theatre Foundation for immediate needs, or to the Benton County Foundation for the long-term economic health of the Whiteside Theatre.

WHITESIDE FOUNDATION RECEIVES GRANT

2009-02-03T18:10:00.000-08:00

The Benton County Cultural Coalition recognized the Whiteside Theatre Foundation, and eleven other grant recipients, at an Arts Center presentation ceremony Wednesday evening. The Benton County Cultural Coalition will partially support the re-leather phase of the Whiteside Organ Restoration project.

A significant component of the Whiteside Theatre Foundation's rehabilitation is the restoration of the 1927 WurliTzer Opus 1807 Style F organ, the vintage voice of the Whiteside. Many OSU sports enthusiasts will remember the organ's music at Gill Coliseum. Benton County Cultural Coalition funding will support re-leathering the pneumatics, the small bellows that play the pipes.

"Our objective is to restore the WurliTzer to its rightful role as the voice of the Whiteside Theatre, and to share this experience with the citizens of Benton County, as well as organ enthusiasts visiting the region," said Louise-Annette Burgess, chair of the Foundation. "When the Whiteside rehabilitation is complete, we anticipate offering regular organ concerts to meet our educational and charitable objectives."

The organ restoration is divided into five phases: rescue, re-leather, rewire, refinish and reinstall. Rescue was completed last summer, when the organ pipes and other components were removed from Gill Coliseum by a local volunteer team assisted by regional partners, the Columbia River Organ Club and Oregon Chapter of American Theatre Organ Society. Volunteers meet weekly for training and to replace outworn leather bellows. "The work is requires care, but if you are a patient person, the organ team would welcome your help," added Burgess. To volunteer, email info@whitesidetheatre.org.

Professional organ restorers value the organ rehabilitation at $170,000. When completely restored, the organ replacement value will be more than $250,000. Additional funds are needed to provide climate-controlled storage of the pipes, until the organ returns home to the Whiteside Theatre.

This phase of the organ restoration project is underwritten in part by a grant from the Benton County Cultural Coalition with funds provided by the Oregon Cultural Trust.

Changing Bulbs in the Whiteside Theatre Chandelier

2008-12-23T06:43:00.000-08:00

On December 13th, Friends of the Whiteside Theatre volunteers changed bulbs in the auditorium chandelier. The project was filmed by a local filmmaker, who compressed the action of almost 2 hours down to 4 minutes and 23 seconds. The time-lapse video is available for viewing on YouTube - just click the "Read on" link to see the full news entry, then click on the "Watch Video" link in parentheses. (Watch Video)

The re-lamping project required the coordination of 12 people to lower and raise the chandelier, which is hung on a cable attached to a hand-cranked winch. The winch is mounted on a floor above the auditorium ceiling.

Santa Claus visits the Whiteside Theatre

2008-12-12T20:35:00.000-08:00

Santa Claus took some time out of his busy December schedule Friday to stop in Corvallis and visit with people in front of the Whiteside Theatre. Both children and adults were greeted with a "Merry Christmas" from Santa, and many people had their pictures taken with him. There also was a giving tree that benefits Benton Furniture Share. Santa will be back at the Whiteside on Saturday, Dec. 20th, from 1-4pm. Don't forget your camera if you want a picture of Santa!

Carolers at the Whiteside

2008-12-07T09:59:00.000-08:00

Carolers were singing in front of the Whiteside Theatre on Dec. 5th in support of the annual Winter's Eve charity event. About a dozen people joined in singing classics such as "Silent Night", "White Christmas", and "Deck the Halls". Other people stopped to join the caroling, or just watch and listen.

A Giving Tree at the Whiteside Theatre

2008-12-02T18:34:00.000-08:00

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation will be hosting a giving tree from the Benton Furniture Share on Dec. 12th and 20th, while Santa is greeting people in front of the Whiteside Theatre. You can come down to the theatre between 1pm-4pm and choose a gift request tag from the tree, then return the gift and tag to the Heritage Mall in Albany. You can also choose to donate money to buy a bed for a child who needs one. It's a great way to help someone this holiday season (Read Benton Furniture Share poster).

Whiteside Theater Newsletter

2008-11-25T21:30:00.000-08:00

To see the Whiteside Theatre Newsletter, click on the "Read on" link, then after the new page loads, click on this link in parentheses ->. (NEWSLETTER)

Santa is Coming to the Whiteside!

2008-11-23T17:56:00.000-08:00

Santa Claus is coming to the Whiteside Theatre on Dec. 12th and 20th! Santa will appear in front of the Whiteside from 1pm to 3pm on Friday, Dec. 12th, and again on Saturday, Dec. 20th. Bring a camera to snap a picture with Santa! (View Flyer)

Whiteside Theatre Has 86th Birthday Party

2008-11-19T08:08:00.000-08:00

The Whiteside Theatre had its 86th birthday on November 9th (b. Nov. 9, 1922). The event was celebrated on Saturday, Nov. 8th, in front of the theatre. There was birthday cake for everyone who stopped by between 1pm and 4pm, and balloons for the kids.

Halloween at the Whiteside Theatre

2008-11-18T07:51:00.000-08:00

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation joined dozens of other businesses this Halloween in distributing candy to trick or treaters downtown. WTF Board members and volunteers passed out candy in front of the theatre from 3pm to 6pm to a wide variety of super-heroes, princesses, and pirates, with hundreds of people downtown enjoying the beautiful weather that afternoon. The annual event is sponsored by the Downtown Corvallis Association, of which the Whiteside Theatre Foundation is a member.

Upcoming Whiteside Theatre Foundation Meetings

2008-07-11T22:00:00.000-07:00

Please make a note on your calendars of two upcoming Whiteside Theatre Foundation meetings. We hope you can join us!

Whiteside Theatre Public Information Meeting and Membership Drive

Date: Tuesday July 22, 2008

Time: 7 - 8:30 pm

Place: Corvallis Benton Public Library large meeting room, 645 NW Monroe, Corvallis

Purposes:

1) Presentation about the Whiteside Theatre (recent accomplishments, future plans, and opportunities to be involved).

2) Membership drive -- Everyone who joins by tonight as a paying member of the Friends of the Whiteside Theatre is eligible to vote on the permanent board of directors at the Whiteside Theatre Foundation Annual Membership Meeting on July 29. Please bring cash or check to the meeting, or join online with a secure credit card payment by July 15 at http://whitesidetheatre.org.

Whiteside Theatre Foundation Annual Membership Meeting

Date: Tuesday July 29, 2008

Time: 7 - 8 pm

Place: The Corvallis Depot Suites, 700 SW Washington, Corvallis

Purposes:

1) Elect the first permanent Whiteside Theatre Foundation Board of Directors.

2) Meet other Friends of the Whiteside Theatre and share ideas.

All who join by December 31, 2008 will be designated as Charter Members. All membership donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Whiteside Theatre Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation.

Preservation Award given to Regal Cinemas

2008-05-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

Craig Hector, Regal Cinemas' Regional Manager, and Jessie Carlson, Ninth Street Cinema manager will be accepting a Preservation Award on behalf of Regal CEO Michael L. Campbell, presented by PreservationWORKS. In February, Regal Cinemas offered to donate the historic Whiteside Theatre to the Whiteside Theatre Foundation, on the condition that the Foundation operates the theatre as a nonprofit public charity for the benefit of the entire community of Corvallis and does not show first run movies for the first 90 days of release. WTF board members will receive the keys to the theatre this evening on behalf of the community.

On Friday May 16, 2008, the transfer of ownership of the Whiteside Theatre from Regal Cinemas to the Foundation was completed, and the deed was filed at the Benton County Courthouse. WTF is an Oregon nonprofit corporation, and received its 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity status from the IRS in just 24 days. The Foundation's board is currently working with local engineers and contractors on cost estimates for historic rehabilitation of the theatre. The Foundation is a member of the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition, and the theatre is listed on the local historic register. The Foundation is nominating the Whiteside Theatre for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and intends to do a LEED-certified rehabilitation of the theatre that meets Secretary of the Interior Standards for Historic Preservation.

The Foundation is also returning the historic Wurlitzer organ to its former home in the theatre. The organ console is currently being stored at the Benton County Historical Museum, and the pipes are being removed from Gill Coliseum for restoration and reinstallation in the theatre after rehabilitation is completed. The Foundation is actively applying for grants and accepting donations to fund restoration and operations activities at the theatre. For more information, see whitesidefriends.org or call spokesperson Susan Morre at 753-4234.

The Board of the Whiteside Theatre Foundation offers their sincere gratitude to Regal Cinemas for their wonderful gift of the Whiteside Theatre to the community of Corvallis.

Susan Morre
Board Chair, Whiteside Theatre Foundation

Regal Donates Whiteside Theatre

2008-02-26T14:35:00.000-08:00

On Friday February 22, 2008, Regal Entertainment Group confirmed donation of the historic Whiteside Theatre to the Friends of the Whiteside Theatre, also known as Whiteside Theatre Foundation.

“We are honored to have an opportunity to contribute this property to the citizens of Corvallis who have long supported our theatre businesses in the community,” said Michael L. Campbell, President and CEO of the Knoxville, Tennessee-based entertainment group. “We are grateful that this magnificent theatre will be restored to its former prominence, and we believe the community will receive a tremendous cultural and social benefit from this theatre following the restoration.”

“We understand that it is the intent of the Friends of the Whiteside to use this facility in a way that promotes quality of life in the community, such as meetings, live performances, social gatherings, cultural and architectural preservation,” said Todd S. Boruff, Regal Vice President for Real Estate.

“We are thrilled that Regal shares our vision for the Whiteside, and that they are presenting the people of Corvallis with the incredible gift of our historic movie palace,” said Susan Morré, spokesperson for the Whiteside Theatre Foundation. “Regal’s gracious offer is contingent upon our long-term commitment to restore, protect and preserve the Whiteside in the future for the benefit of the community, an objective we share with Regal,” Morré noted. A deed restriction accompanying transfer of the property prohibits the exhibition of any movie in the Whiteside within 90 days after the public release date to avoid competing with Regal’s Ninth Street Theatre. “We have no problem with that restriction, and are honored by the gift that Regal is giving to our community. This will allow us to focus our efforts on raising funds for the rehabilitation and reopening of the theatre.”

The Whiteside Theatre Foundation is coordinating with Mr. Boruff to facilitate acceptance of the gift at the earliest possible date. “After acquisition, we will focus on building rehabilitation. We look forward to collaborating with other community members to create a new life for the Whiteside Theatre. We welcome broad participation in this wonderful project and in future activities of our organization,” said Morré.

Whiteside Group Presents Big Picture

2008-01-14T15:04:00.000-08:00

The Friends of the Whiteside Theatre is now Whiteside Theatre Foundation, a nonprofit group actively working with Regal Cinema to acquire the Whiteside Theatre. "We feel the name change reflects our purpose to adapt the venerable Whiteside Theatre to changing entertainment market conditions while meeting existing community needs," said Susan Morré, spokesperson for the group. The group will submit a proposal to Regal Cinema for review at their Board of Directors meeting later this month.

"Whiteside Theatre Foundation supports an economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable multi-purpose entertainment and events venue in the historic Whiteside Theatre that complements existing arts venues. This expanded entertainment role for the Whiteside Theatre will add to downtown Corvallis economic diversity and cultural vitality for the community," Morré said. "A market opportunity exists for a downtown event hall with a seating capacity that existing venues cannot meet. We envision a robust mix of activities that includes: music and entertainment programs, films and film festivals, live broadcasts, closed circuit sporting events, and activities designed for and by Corvallis children, young adults, and seniors."

The steering group of 20 includes downtown business and property owners, local developers, professional business and preservation consultants, legal, architectural, and theatre management professionals, and others with sound experience rehabilitating historic resources. Whiteside Theatre Foundation includes members of the Downtown Corvallis Association, Corvallis Independent Business Alliance, Corvallis-Benton Chamber Coalition, and OSU faculty. An additional 150 community members already share our dedication to the Whiteside. "This group brings many complementary talents, skills, and resources to the table," Morré added.

"We anticipate the nonprofit will acquire the theatre, and then work with a group of investors who underwrite the costs of rehabilitation. We plan a certified historic rehabilitation that will provide investors with federal income tax and new market tax credits that are different than federal charitable deductions and more attractive to investors seeking tax management. We are already working with the League of Historic American Theatres and the National Trust for Historic Preservation to qualify the project for technical and funding assistance from the National Community Investment Corporation that specializes precisely in this kind of community project."

"Since we want this project to be a win-win for the entire community, our concept supports multiple goals of the 2020 Vision Statement: Corvallis as the cultural heart of Benton County; economically strong by fostering local businesses, regional cooperation and clean industry; rich in the arts and recreational opportunities, celebrating the talents and culture of the people who live here," said Morré.

Following site control, a historic structure report will be conducted that confirms the 2003 evaluations of the Whitesideís engineering, mechanical systems, and overall soundness. Team members are researching comparable regional theatre operations for a feasibility and marketing study that will be the basis for the operations business plan. A public meeting will be held soon to report on the project status and to hear from other community members about what type of events they would like to see at the Whiteside.

"We are impressed with the strength of community support for the Whiteside, and welcome investor interest," Morré added. Interested persons are encouraged to send ideas, donations or investment inquiries to: Whiteside Theatre Foundation, P.O. Box T, Corvallis, 97339.