Dick Montgomery indeed operated the Sun Theater during my youthful days in Williamston (1963 – 1971); he also drove a school bus with a no-nonsense policy! A wonderful experience growing up pre-MPAA codes where Dick would screen entrants based on suitability to watch the movie showing. “Do your parents approve viewing this?” was asked as we bought tickets (25 cents) to view “Alfie”?
Chris Goetz worked the popcorn machine; what a treat.
Dick ensured he saw each film he booked prior to showing in the Sun. He’d go to Detroit to do such, usually once or twice a month. The marque was under the neon sign; no longer used. And the picture posters were always displayed; outside was the current film while inside were coming attractions. Now there’s nothing but cardboard letter cut-outs – oh well.
Many a date was our Friday / Saturday night at the Sun. Always two shows; 7 & 9 p.m. No platter projector but instead the “ding-ding” ten seconds before the reel ended to start the next – and the quick focus check by the operator (one of the Horstman twins as I recall).
We even had previews & cartoons – Marc, Dave & I would laugh ourselves silly with WB (Road Runner) Looney Tunes!
So happy this small piece of Americana has survived. Thanks to all that have operated the Sun since the 1940’s!
Dick Montgomery indeed operated the Sun Theater during my youthful days in Williamston (1963 – 1971); he also drove a school bus with a no-nonsense policy! A wonderful experience growing up pre-MPAA codes where Dick would screen entrants based on suitability to watch the movie showing. “Do your parents approve viewing this?” was asked as we bought tickets (25 cents) to view “Alfie”?
Chris Goetz worked the popcorn machine; what a treat.
Dick ensured he saw each film he booked prior to showing in the Sun. He’d go to Detroit to do such, usually once or twice a month. The marque was under the neon sign; no longer used. And the picture posters were always displayed; outside was the current film while inside were coming attractions. Now there’s nothing but cardboard letter cut-outs – oh well.
Many a date was our Friday / Saturday night at the Sun. Always two shows; 7 & 9 p.m. No platter projector but instead the “ding-ding” ten seconds before the reel ended to start the next – and the quick focus check by the operator (one of the Horstman twins as I recall).
We even had previews & cartoons – Marc, Dave & I would laugh ourselves silly with WB (Road Runner) Looney Tunes!
So happy this small piece of Americana has survived. Thanks to all that have operated the Sun since the 1940’s!