Rialto's Nip Tuck

South Pasadena, CA -- Another Southern California, Route 66 icon receives gentle attention.

When I saw the crane extended and men in hard hats working along the blocked off sidewalk, I had to pull over and get the scoop on the 85-year old theater. I spoke with the workers and they said some of the plaster was falling off the building (part of the National Register of Historic Places), and they were shoring it up. No major face lift today, just and a little lawsuit prevention.

John Deere and His Tee Pees

Another attraction along Route 66 in Rialto, CA

Frank Llyod Wright Meets Barney & Friends

Some structures catch your eye and pull you in. Like a moth drawn to light, the Oxley Building in South Pasadena is one of those. The sanguine colors work, as well as the simple fixtures and minimalist, zen-like mind-set. For some reason the Oxley Building compliments the surrounding, more traditional architecture of South Pas. It's also built in the shadow of the great Rialto Theater, like a wise grandfather looking over his eccentric granddaughter.

Rialto Theater

South Pasadena -- Click on the image (left) and appreciate the detail of this venerable theater.

From what I've read, the Moorish style Rialto will be spared and given another chance of life. I've seen dozens of films there and always marveled at not only the exterior of the 1925 structure but the interior. As you walk in, your eyes are drawn up to the intricately stenciled ceiling and plaster ornaments.

Seconds before the film began, the house lights dimmed and the red glow of the gargoyle above the screen would pierce your soul, just as the seat springs did your back side. That didn't matter because you knew walking in that the Rialto was a treasure, a working antique; one that must be preserved. And it looks like it will be.