Absurd Statements and Come to the Aero

March 19 2003

Dear Editor,

In her latest opinion piece ("Follow the Money," March 19), Bea Nemlaha says that I call myself a screenwriter and do not seem to be involved in real estate, "at least not publicly." What on earth does that mean? These statements are absurd.

I am a member of the WGA and have been earning a living as a writer for over ten years, something of which I am very proud. Bea's attempt to insinuate that I may be a developer in drag is insulting.

I respect Bea even though I disagree with her on this issue, and I have always treated her with courtesy when we have met to debate Prop A. I am disappointed to find her suggesting that I am somehow lying about who I am and what I do for a living.

Bea Nemlaha is an intelligent person and a valuable member of our community. For her
to launch a personal attack that questions my character is unfortunate, at best.

Greg Poirier
Santa Monica

(The following was posted on the Aero Theater's Web site and gives operator Chris Allen's take on the old movie house's new lease with the operator of the Egyptian Theater. Because Allen could not be reached for comment for the article in Wednesday's Lookout, we are posting his message in full.)

AMERICAN CINEMATHEQUE IS TAKING OVER THE AERO THEATRE!!! Some of our questions are being answered, and so far, so good!

The LookOut News is running an online story detailing the deal between the owners of the Aero Theatre building and American Cinematheque, which operates Hollywood's Egyptian Theatre. The full story can also be found on the Aero Theatre home page (www.aerotheatre.com).

Here is some of what American Cinematheque said in the story:
(1) The Aero's marquee, exterior, and deco side panels (and hopefully the clock and aquarium) will remain intact.
(2) The interior will be upgraded: roomier seats (reducing the capacity from 600 to 450); and a new concession stand that includes "real popcorn" will be installed.
(3) The Aero will have new projection and sound systems.
(4) American Cinematheque plans to screen its first film in late summer.

This does leave a few unanswered questions:
(1) What happens to this theater on April 14, 2003? Will it remain dark until the late summer?
(2) What is American Cinematheque's position regarding the potential designation of the Aero as a landmark by the City of Santa Monica once the renovation is done?

The local media continues to investigate this story, and we are confident that we will have answers to these remaining questions soon.

In the meantime, we are extremely appreciative of all the wonderful e-mails we have received since telling you about the 30-day notice, and we are grateful to those of you who have made inquiries to help us get to the bottom of this story.

The changes that will be made by American Cinematheque are welcome and badly needed. Luckily, for everyone involved, American Cinematheque has the money it will take to make these improvements.

As the LookOut News article says, my staff, family, and I have operated the theatre during good times and bad for 11 years. In July 2002, the theater was $60,000 in debt (back rent, studio bills, etc.) and on the verge of being forced to close. Then the community came together and saved it.

In the article, James Rosenfield thanked me for my "stewardship" of the theater during my tenure. But the credit for the continuing existence of this theater has to go to the community, which has supported this theater for 64 years (and counting!).

We're going to keep showing movies until our lease is up, so please come out to the theater before we have to leave. Right now, we're showing Far From Heaven, a film nominated for four Academy Awards. Not only will you enjoy the movie, but your attendance will help us pay off some of our remaining bills!

Details of our grand farewell party will be coming soon, as will any further updates we get regarding the status of the Aero.

Sincerely yours,

Chris Allen
Aero Theatre