HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026 Janaury Heights Theater DayCOLUMBIA HEIGHTS
PROCLAMATION
Honoring Tom Letness for His Stewardship of the Heights Theater
The City of Columbia Heights proudly recognizes Tom Letness for his
extraordinary dedication to preserving and revitalizing one of the community's
most treasured cultural landmarks, the Heights Theater.
Since purchasing the Heights Theater in 1998, Tom Letness devoted more than two
decades to restoring and operating the historic 1926 theater with exceptional care,
vision, and respect for its architectural and cultural heritage. Through meticulous
research, including the use of original blueprints, and a long-term commitment to
authenticity, he returned the theater to its original splendor and ensured its place as
a beloved destination for film, music, and community gatherings.
Under his leadership, the Heights Theater became widely recognized as a jewel of
the Twin Cities, celebrated for its beauty, historic features, unique programming,
and cherished traditions that brought generations of residents together. His
stewardship preserved not only a building, but a shared community experience that
strengthened the cultural identity of Columbia Heights and the surrounding region.
After 27 years of dedicated ownership and operation, Tom Letness ensured the
continued legacy of the Heights Theater by transitioning it to new ownership that
shares his commitment to preservation, excellence, and community -centered
cinema.
Now, therefore, I, Amdda Marquez Simula, Mayor of Columbia Heights, do hereby
proclaim this day as a recognition of Heights Theater and expresses sincere
gratitude to Tom Letness for his passion, perseverance, and lasting contributions to
the cultural life of our city. His work will continue to inspire appreciation for
historic preservation and the arts for many years to come.
A ada Marquez Simu , Mayor
January 26, 2026