8/14/13 - With plans in motion to convert it into a restaurant, the Howell Theater got its last hurrah yesterday with two final screenings. Hundreds of people turned out for the event, which included screenings of the classic 80's movies âThe Breakfast Clubâ and âBack to the Future.â The event was organized by The Root Restaurant of White Lake, which now owns the building and plans to turn it into a second restaurant. Many of those who attended were sad to see the old theater close down, although some said they were also excited for The Root to open in the downtown. The Root provided some of its cuisine as an alternative to the classic popcorn and candy, including a selection of smoked and cured meats, sausages, pork, and cheddar grits. Several desserts, like dark chocolate brownies and sea-salt cookies, were also available. The Root's Executive Chef James Rigato says the plans to renovate the building are still in the design stage, but he hopes to maintain some of the aesthetic of the theater in the final product. Mayor Phil Campbell says the city government hopes The Root will help revitalize that portion of the downtown. He and several members of the city council watched the screening of âBack to the Future,â which was the more popular choice and was played in the larger of the building's two theaters. (TD)
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