Hollywood Bar & Filmworks Has Closed!

 

Say Goodbye to Hollywood, It's Been a Great 15 Years!

It was 15 years ago last weekend that Hollywood Bar & Filmworks opened. I thought it would go on forever, but it's time to leave. When we first opened Hollywood it was the first new downtown movie theater in over half a century, no other theater had even been open for over two decades. Union Station had just collapsed and Circle Centre wasn't even a hole in the ground. We were one of only a handful of downtown businesses to be open past 8:00pm and I believe the only one of those to be open every day of the week. I was told that for years we were the only reason it was economically feasible to keep the Union Station Parking Garage open at night. Our business increased by double digits every year, by 35% the year Circle Centre opened and despite the presence its new cinema. Over our 15 years we have received lots of recognition. Favorable articles and stories from every form of media, consistent local and national awards for Best Theater, Best Service, Service Excellence, Best Menu, Best Pizza, Best Popcorn, Best Margaritas, Best Commercial, Best Downtown Addition, being a Good Neighbor, Entrepreneurism, and Best Marketing. Indianapolis Monthly characterized us as one of the crown jewels of Indianapolis . One magazine even named us as the third best place to take out of town guests (after the 500 Track and the Children's Museum). I never knew Indianapolis had so many international visitors until I started hearing all the foreign languages in our elevator. I even have a letter from Vienna written by an 85 year old Great Grandmother of 19 kids who visited, loved the place and wrote back because she was so happy she got to see a movie without having any children around her. My concept has had coverage in many publications from LA to New York , and various national television programs including the Food Network just last month. During the Final Four, USA Today said we were the only must see in Indianapolis for out of town guests. Since I opened this same concept in Chicago, Restaurant Business Magazine called us one of the top new concepts in the country (somehow missing that we had been open in Indianapolis for over a decade). At one point we were attracting the equivalent of more than half the amount of downtown Indianapolis visits that the Colts generate (interestingly without having to have our pockets lined with a taxpayer subsidy and more importantly on a consistent basis and not just 10 afternoons a year). We were one of a handful of the top non-institutional sellers of bottled beer, chicken wings and ice cream in the county; spent more than $250,000 annually on advertising and employed over 100 people, all of which rippled through the local downtown economy. Because of the new Chicago operation, the IBJ just named us the eighth fastest growing private company in Indianapolis ; but that is because of my out-of-state growth and despite downtowns new dynamic.

 

Over 20 other cities have asked me to build in their downtown and do for them what I had done for Indianapolis . Last month I turned down a $6 million municipal offer to open a location just outside Chicago . The largest cinema chain in the world had asked me to co-venture with them in opening up my concept and Disney wanted me to open at Epcot, all of which was enormously flattering but deals that ultimately just weren't the right move for me. In opening up in a suburban village outside Chicago, similar success has greeted us and we will bring as many people to little old Woodridge, Illinois (population 30,000) as the Pacers will bring to downtown Indianapolis this season, (again without subsidy or taxpayer expense). The Indianapolis venture capital community has embraced what I do and I believe will continue to back my plays and I have been offered figures ranging from $20 million to $80 million to fund my companies growth.

 

We've had great times and met great people in Indianapolis . The surviving Munchkins attend our annual Wizard of Oz festival and have become dear friends. Highlights include dancing with Karen Allen down at the Slippery Noodle and Actor Michael Madsen (much to my embarrassment), leading an entire auditorium in singing Happy Birthday to me. People like Directors Robert Wise & Sydney Pollack, actors like Paul Reiser, Tippi Hedren, Jane Russell, Peter Falk, Linda Blair, actors from Star Wars and Harry Potter and many many more rave about my theaters and we now have celebrities calling us to appear at our facilities to their host films, do book signings, etc.

Paris Hilton was just in my office last week and says we're “Hot” and “Awesome” which in today's culture I guess makes it official.

 

But the best thing has always been our customers. In the past many of them drove regularly from as far away as Bloomington , Anderson or Lafayette to see movies at my place. I have heard many stories about first dates, marriage proposals and even more about just great evenings. I have a letter framed on my wall from a local monastery where the Mother Superior writes how much they love the theater; Hollywood is the only place they come downtown, the only bar they go to, the only way they see movies (you can imagine my surprise when that envelope was received).

 

Nobody ever likes Hollywood Bar & Filmworks, ask around yourself. People “LOVE” Hollywood Bar & Filmworks. “Love” is invariably the word people use, our customers are passionate about us. I frequently have strangers come up and thank me for Hollywood just being there. If people, clerks, waiters, whatever, find out I am the owner they always want to tell me their list of what they love about the theater. Look through the yellow pages and ask yourself how many people have thanked one of those business owners just for existing, how many customers use the term “LOVE” about one of those businesses. That effusive feeling is gratifying and special beyond all belief. My family and I have a lot of great memories, but it is time to go. Here's why.

 

I led a group of small business owners in complaining that the inflation of downtown parking rates during special events at the proposed Fieldhouse would really hurt casual visits downtown. This proved to be true, on over 100 nights a year, mostly weekends (which are bread & butter for the small business owner), parking rates were going up an average of 735% in the Southwest & Southeast Quad and people not attending those events were cutting way back on their downtown visits because of the costs. I had a school teacher who would come downtown 3 or 4 times a month but tired of paying the special event rate to park, so she started checking the Pacers schedule to see when it was safe. Games were listed on Tuesday & Thursday so she came on Wednesday - but there was a concert. She sought me out (we had never met) to apologize because she could not afford to pay $60 to $80 a month in parking fees to see movies downtown, no matter how much she loved Hollywood. So many people were exposed to event rates that casual downtown visits dropped way off, and people just got out of the downtown habit. They'll come downtown for a special Birthday or Anniversary, but the everyday business from the suburbs largely disappeared and it shifted the entire economic dynamic of downtown. South Meridian was supposed to be the center of nightlife activity, but notice it largely shifted to the other side of the mall and to higher end dining that catered to out of town business travelers and conventioneers or where business people could use company credit cards. My business and others that fundamentally relied on a constant flow of patronage by locals suffered greatly. Councilor Phil Borst conducted a fact finding mission and found there was a big problem. The City Council held a hearing and found there was a very real problem, Mayor Peterson said he realized there was a big problem when he addressed a large group of us at the now defunct Majestic Oyster Bar. This very newspaper supported our efforts with several Editorials.

 

Over three dozen local restaurants signed a petition to the Mayor saying this was the biggest problem they faced; two thirds of them have either closed or sold to get out of downtown. I'm next. I have sat at a conference table with Mayor Peterson over half a dozen times and he never failed to state that the restaurant and entertainment industries were “the goose that laid the golden egg” for downtown and a primary engine driving downtown resurgence. Yet there was never a time when he didn't fail to live up to his promises. Before a group of local restaurateurs he once even admitted that the downtown industry had been “screwed twice in the last month” (his phrase, not mine), and I know over his whole administration it has been many more times than that, but of course he never takes responsibility for any of it.

 

His then Director of Economic Development, Melina Kennedy, agreed to conduct an independent study of the parking problem with either the Kelly School of Business or the Urban Institute, many meetings were held, all the areas of inquiry were decided upon and it was funded. Then Melina and the Mayor reneged (at the urging of the local parking interests led by Tamara Zahn at Indianapolis Downtown Inc). Melina had also agreed to the Downtown Restaurant Association's plan to solve the problem. By phone she told me she would implement it on a trial basis, she also told the President of the State Association (former Democratic State Chairman) and a lobbyist I had personally paid for (and the current Chairman of the Marion County Democratic Party) and she also announced it at a public meeting. Three weeks later (again at the urging of the local parking interests led by Tamara Zahn at IDI) she and the Mayor reneged. A committee had also been formed to study the adoption of an ordinance that mandated visible disclosure of parking rates before one enters a parking facility, just like grocery stores have to post prices before the consumer buys. The local parking interests led by Tamara Zahn at IDI deadlocked the committee and Melina would not support the measure (although I took it on myself to get the job done and in their wisdom the City County Council passed the bill unanimously over the vehement objections of Zahn's IDI). The Mayor always admitted there was a problem, always paid lip service to the issue; but he never solved the problem when he easily could have, even changed his mind about supporting an independent study done on the matter. Talk was plentiful, but nothing was done in a world where results are the only things that really matter. That was always an interesting choice of campaign slogans by Melina Kennedy for her run at the Prosecutor's job; because as the Mayors Economic person she got zero results and so deserves zero votes, especially from the restaurant community.

 

While Peterson pays lip service to the importance of the industry I am in, (for public consumption he pays lip service to everything good in the world) he comes from a big money developer family, and a wealthy background (his father donated about $1,000,000 to his first campaign). Peterson just doesn't understand the importance of small businesses. Small business is the back bone of any resurgent downtown because they make up the tenants for any developer and provide the largest area for job creation. Likewise the restaurant industry is the second largest employer in the state. You would think he'd understand, but he treats all small businesses as expendable, they can all be easily replaced. He just doesn't get it. His attitude just doesn't work, even with the downtown propaganda machine in full gear. That theory also leaves a lot of broken, bitter and unemployed people in its wake. Melina thinks she knows the restaurant industry because she would occasionally cocktail waitress for a caterer while she was in college (but then according to her experience isn't necessary for a prosecutor either). This Mayor is no friend to small business or their employees.

 

The last straws for me were….

1. The Mayors point person, Melina Kennedy would not solve the parking problems created by the Capital Improvement Board who are largely funded by food & beverage taxes taken from my industries customers; but she found $11 million dollars so the Simons, (wealthy campaign contributors) could have free parking at their new city funded headquarters. I agree the Simons needed to be kept downtown, but I resent the government who would give them free parking on taxpayer funded improvements while the businesses who work hard and provide the source of that revenue get screwed by Peterson and the CIB. They could have fixed most of the neighborhoods parking problems by a mere policy change that would not have even have cost them revenue.

 

2. Peterson doubled the food & beverage tax so that now both sports teams make more from my business than I do. There is something fundamentally wrong with his administration when Jim Irsay makes more money from my own customers than I do. I don't have anything against either sports team for getting whatever money they can; I do have something against a government that takes the money from my customers, uses it in a way that discourages non-sports related visits to downtown and won't listen to (and even reneges on promises to) the business guys on the front line. Lawyers of his type seem to think they already know everything better than the people already doing it.

 

3. The restaurant association has repeatedly asked that Peterson put restaurant owners on the Capital Improvements Board since it receives tens of millions of dollars of revenue annually from this source. First, taxation without representation is fundamentally un-American. Second, with all the public money being spent and since he even calls the restaurant industry the goose that laid the golden egg; why wouldn't he want experts who are on the front line of the hospitality serving on that board to share their expertise on the convention center expansion? He has verbally refused several times, in writing at least once. This leads me to the conclusion that he does not value the experience and wisdom of small business. He has found seats on the board for a labor union boss whose members benefit from the construction and contribute to his campaign, and for other members of his team . He must value the voice of his “yes” men must be more than industry experts. Shame on the Governor for not mandating that Peterson give restaurants a say in how this tax money is spent when the food and beverage tax was doubled; but I at least understand the wisdom of why the Governor would not let the CIB control the purse strings and he set up a separate board.

    

4. Melina Kennedy and therefore the Mayor agreed to do a completely independent study of    downtown parking. Three meetings were held and all the areas of inquiry decided upon. Funding was actually set from two sources, one being an offer from the CIB. The key was that the study would be independent and not controlled by any special interest, including IDI on the parking industries behalf. Melina buckled due to opposition from IDI and cancelled the study yet….when a truly independent study was done concerning the economic impact of the Colts and the results were less than anticipated (probably much less), the study was buried and never saw the light of day. Later the CIB spent over $100,000 to buy the desired results of what was supposed to be an independent study but was actually a popularity poll of Colts ticket holders which was used to manipulate the public and the press in order to get the hundreds of million of dollars for Jim Irsay. There is something wrong when this administration cancels a much needed study because it is truly independent; yet they will spend exorbitant amounts of public money to avoid an academic study and rather buy the results for a propaganda piece (read the study for yourself). That's just wrong.

 

While I love the people of Indianapolis , our customers, and downtown, since Peterson came to power my business has decreased by half. In the first three years after the Fieldhouse opened, IDI reported that the top ten downtown restaurants had average declining sales of 10% (then they stopped reporting on that statistic) at a time when national and statewide restaurant sales were increasing by 4% to 7% annually. (This should prove that the benefits of “sports economics” are not what they are cracked up to be.) Downtowns are very fragile things and the average restaurant in Indiana only has a 4.5% profit margin. When the food and beverage tax doubles to make other friends of Peterson wealthy, when income taxes are increasing with talks of more increases, including Peterson's regional sales tax which will mean restaurant purchases are taxed at 9%, why stay? (Ever notice how lawyers don't even pay 1% sales tax on their services?) I want to emphasize that I am not bad-mouthing downtown, it's a great place. My family has had a presence here since the Civil War, and if I didn't care what was going on I wouldn't waste the money for this ad space. I am not bad-mouthing sports teams. I am bad-mouthing the people with their hands on the levers of power and who are in charge of the purse strings. Downtown and the people of Indianapolis deserve better. Peterson and his associates are too busy building a machine like the Democratic machine of Chicago than trying to do right by the citizens who make Indianapolis great. When my successful business with nationwide acclaim is driven to near bankruptcy and government conducts itself like Peterson conducts the business of downtown something has to be said. Mayors should be more than smooth talkers with Boy Scout good looks, and Directors of Economic Development (like Prosecutors and all publicly paid office holders) should have experience instead of merely being political buddies. Melina came to the economic job with experience only as an environmental attorney with little or no background in economics or even the private sector. Only her friendship with Peterson qualified her for that or any job in the administration. Peterson comes from the background of a big money developer and continues to treat small businesses like they are all disposable commodities; and instead of the most experienced people for the job he uses his attorney buddies and Lord knows if you want something done right you don't put attorneys in charge, especially inexperienced ones. When it comes time to vote; remember by actions that Peterson & Company has definitively proven they are no friends of small business in general and the restaurant industry in particular.

 

Parking Solutions that would have made a difference

To negate the hyperinflation of most area parking spaces during events:

The addition of a nominal surcharge per ticket at the Fieldhouse (such as 75 cents, similar but less expensive than the Ticketmaster charge) for parking on the CIB spaces would be tremendous for downtown. If parking is included with the ticket, few event attendees will want to park away from those lots which are now at least 50% empty even during sold out Pacers Games. I have shown the CIB the photographs of all the empty spaces and you would think they would want to maximize usage. The effect should be a market driven deflation of neighborhood prices which would also ease traffic congestion for everyone downtown as those entering could just flash their tickets. CIB revenues would actually increase significantly, (200% to 300% although Fred Glass of the CIB is on the record saying less revenue would also be acceptable to him if it solved the problem). This scheme works at Verizon Wireless Center, was fully embraced by their customers, and was one of the topics in the original independent study that Melina Kennedy reneged on and said wasn't necessary. The small surcharge would be a net discount for ticket holders and leave them with more cash in their pocket to spend once inside the arena.

 

To make parking a tool to enhance downtown development:

Why let parking continue to escalate and be a disincentive for downtown development and customer visits like so many other large cities? Let those cities be our examples of what not to be. All over suburban Chicago, which had dozens and dozens of declining Main Streets like our Beech Grove, the municipalities have listened to potential customers and stepped up, removing parking meters entirely and building large parking garages that are free for the first few hours with only a nominal charge thereafter. Suburban malls had drained the life out of these cities, like Naperville Illinois, who responded by building a 200 plus space garage that was so successful they built another 600 space garage, which has been so successful they are now building an even bigger garage, after which they will tear down their original small garage and replace it with another 600 space garage! Their downtown booms, no empty store fronts, with as great and diverse a restaurant district as downtown Indianapolis (but with a fraction of the population). These garages are paid for with the increased tax revenue spent within its downtown. There are dozens more similar examples around Chicago. Even Beverly Hills California has been doing this! Downtown Indianapolis is in a TIF zone, can you imagine how much faster the downtown would grow if it provided such a customer friendly infrastructure like parking anytime for a buck! That is what it took for Circle Centre to compete with the suburbs, so local government has tacitly admits what it takes to make downtown reach its potential.

 

One of my investors moved out of an entire floor of the AUL building, my accountant and payroll service likewise vacated downtown with parking a primary reason. For the extra cost they incur for parking downtown, either in higher wages to cover parking or direct subsidy of parking, they figured they could just not work at all for two weeks a year and spend it on a beach, or rent thousands of square feet of more office space in the suburbs for what they are paying parking companies. Just this summer world travelers Tippi Hedren and Michael Madsen each asked me where all the cars were while walking downtown on a sunny weekday afternoons. Unless there is a specific reason one has to be downtown, economics and often convenience dictates putting an office in the suburbs. How many law firms like Baker & Daniels, Bose McKinney, etc., are opening offices far North to chase their customers who will otherwise chose a suburban provider?.... and now “The Carmel Star” is publishing and several major malls are opening North. Business follows the customer – so simple a principal that even a candidate prosecutor should have understood. Employment has started to fall in Indianapolis, but is up by a third in Hamilton County. I'm not saying the economic center of Indianapolis is changing just because of parking, but parking is a big part of the mix and if parking were used as a tool, like it was with Circle Centre Mall and for Simon's office building, it would be a huge windfall for all of downtown. The propaganda is that Indianapolis already has lower priced parking than many other Midwest cities: but so what? For most people it's not a choice between this city and other cities – the choice is between this city and its own suburbs. If the playing field was leveled with parking, how many people would chose the amenities downtown has to offer that the suburbs can't. More offices and more attractions means more customer visits which attracts more businesses, just like Hamilton County. How many people put their offices downtown so as to be near the RCA Dome or the Fieldhouse? Not many. If it was such a great thing to be next to a sports arena, why when Market Square Arena was still in use was City Market so vacant and in need of city subsidy; instead of having great restaurants and sports bars and turning a profit for the city? It's Economics 101 and the Mayor doesn't have a clue. Using parking for a downtown growth strategy was another one of the topics in the original independent study that Melina Kennedy reneged on doing. Where would downtown be now if this study was done and acted upon as promised when Peterson took office?

 

This statement is solely my opinion. Reprints are available at www.filmworksonline.com I know many downtown businessmen also share these opinions but are afraid to speak up about the administration. (I was visited by more government inspectors in the first ten days after I first brought up the problems caused by special event parking then in the previous ten years combined.) As truth is an absolute defense for liable, and I have full filing cabinets and 5000 pages of documents in my computer on these matters, I have no problem backing up what I have said and would welcome the opportunity to do so if someone in the administration cares to make it a matter for the courts or Editorial rebuttal. If any of the public has information on this or any other disreputable actions by IDI or local government, just let me know and I'll pass it on. I already have files from lots of people on various local issues who don't have the means to bring them to public attention. 

Write to ted@atriptothemovies.com

 

 

 

 

Part Two

Hollywood Bar & Filmworks Has Closed!

 

Say Goodbye to Hollywood, It's Been a Great 15 Years!

 

Lets talk about Indianapolis Downtown Inc. &

The Capital Improvement Board

IDI is a private organization which claims to be the voice for all downtown merchants. Their stated mission is to develop, manage and market downtown Indianapolis, to promote downtown business development and visits; a task usually handled by a government organization such as an economic development agency. IDI's budget is matched by the City of Indianapolis and direct funding is about $1,000,000 annually with many perks and loaned employees from the city. The Executive Director of IDI since its inception has been Tamara Zahn.

 

Although the group claims to be the guiding hand in downtown development and the voice of all downtown merchants and industries, in fact that voice is for sale. In order to have a real voice, you can join the Board of Directors for a fee. A seat on the Board is for sale at a cost of $25,000. Some people have paid more, some have paid less. IDI receives matching public funds. IDI and Tamara, (who is paid more than even the Mayor), has a vested interest in covering up any downtown problems, especially concerning parking issues because she can take credit for positive news in the press (even if the news is manufactured) and so maintain funding.

 

IDI has not officially partnered with any other industry except the parking industry. Other industries that actually attract people to downtown such as restaurants, hotels, retail merchants, property owners, etc., do not enjoy a “partnership” with IDI. Only the parking industry which leaches off what others attract enjoys this extra special consideration with IDI. A major player in the “IDI Parking Partnership” is the President of Denison Parking and has also been the Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Board for IDI. The IDI Parking Partnership is headed by a paid employee of the Department of Metropolitan Development, City of Indianapolis who is “on loan” to IDI for this exclusive use. Denison at one time, and maybe still, operates the downtown parking meters for Indianapolis.

The number of tickets issued aggressively increased when they took over, and of course vehicles were increasingly driven to use private parking facilities, some of which Denison controls. I have heard, but not verified, that the management of the CIB parking lots on the open land previously occupied by the old demolished sports arena, was awarded to Denison without competitive bids even being solicited. Denison controls more parking spaces than another company, including Circle Centre Mall, the CIB spaces and several of their own garages.

 

Often, parking companies victimize the public by using the events as an excuse to maintain the higher rates even after an event like a basketball game is over! The parking industry has fought any market driven solution tooth and nail as they catch huge quantities of non-event cars in the hyperinflation. At their rate of increase, well over 50% of the non-event traffic could stop coming downtown and this industry would still increase its profits considerably. In other words, the profits reaped from the hyperinflation are so high that even if 50% of evening downtown visits disappear, the parking industry would still be better off. That's the math.

 

In rallying the neighborhood (I was the founding President of the Downtown Restaurant Association) I caused a considerable stir. The then Mayor, Steven Goldsmith, after receiving a signed petition from three dozen restaurants, convened a special event parking task force chaired by Tamara Zahn and conducted through IDI. Nothing was really accomplished, but at the last meeting the neighborhood agreed on a trial basis to the only proposal on the table. Just after the meeting adjourned we found that a CIB official had lied to us and we went to the press with the lie. The minutes for that last IDI Task Force meeting were never issued, even though I requested a transcript. Zahn refused because they would have proven that official had lied. That CIB official later told a neighborhood businessman that if we thought we were bad off now; just wait until he was done with us (meaning getting even for the blowing of the whistle). At that time, I received the casket company brochure through the mail which I am sure was an implied threat for someone. My business then also became a target for every state and city inspector available. Within weeks my business was inspected by agencies that had never looked at us before. Anybody who had signed the petition was contacted by either Zahn or the head of the IDI Parking Partnership who tried to pressure them to take their name off the petition. This effort also included both IDI and other government officials contacting the Landlords of many of the restaurants in an effort to solicit their help in suppressing their tenant's vocal unrest with the situation. In two cases the pressure tactics worked and restaurateurs asked (or should I say were forced to ask) that their names be removed from the petition. This was a despicable pressure tactic unethical by any standard.

 

When the Downtown Restaurant Association conducted a survey of downtown customer attitudes about parking, Zahn called me up literally screaming that IDI is the only one who should be conducting any surveys. Of course the customer comments were shocking and fully verified the association's position. Later, when IDI conducted their regular bi-annual survey of downtown visitors (which is not a cross section of downtown customers but rather a survey of IDI members), the parking problem still showed up. That information was not included in the final report, and the real results were leaked to me by a sympathetic IDI employee. Later, even though parking had always ranked as downtown's number one negative in all previous IDI surveys and it had been noted as getting worse since the Fieldhouse opened, they just stopped asking the question.  Why?  Since they don't ask the question – nothing negative to report.

 

You should know that surveys are produced to show that Indianapolis has lower priced parking than other cities, but the comparisons are generally big congested East Coast metropolitan areas and not comparable sized cities, and they use the overall prices of the vast Indianapolis general region since Indianapolis encompasses the entire county and not comparing downtown to downtown. These prices also do not count the special event rate which is where the biggest downtown Indianapolis problem lies. Even if downtown Indianapolis rates are lower than other cities; the choice is not one of citizens moving from our city to the another city; the choice is one of visiting downtown or staying close to home in the suburbs.  You'll notice in any responses to this that IDI switches the subject from one of price to availability.  The free spaces they talk about are the 200 evening parking meters which is true, but remember that there are 20,000 seats in downtown restaurants to fill, 18,000 seats at the Fieldhouse, the needs of downtowns hotels, employers and retailers.  Likewise they list Circle Centre as $1.50 during special events; but this is only true if you spend $20 inside the mall so theer is a gimmick.

 

One proposal by the neighborhood was to have an independent research study conducted to verify the problem and look at solutions (as IDI and the parking industry maintained there was no problem). A committee was formed to come up with study questions and the CIB said they would fund it. After three meetings the study questions were decided on, but at the last moment Tamara Zahn objected vociferously, said that parking was not the problem, it was the economy and other odd things, and stomped out of the meeting. Melina later cancelled the study, reversing herself and saying a study was not necessary. The association believed an independent study would have easily validated our position which would then have mandated the problem truly be addressed; by not having an independent study identifying solutions, no solutions would have to be offered. See no evil. Of course such an independent study would have proven contrary to the interests of the parking industry.

 

Another association proposal was to pass an ordinance that rates must be posted so as to be more visible to the driving public prior to entering a parking facility at all times when a lot is open. This would promote competition and prevent dishonest practices such as not posting prices at all, so operators could switch rates based on the perceived affluence of the driver or by the type of vehicle driven. Every honest citizen should want full disclosure protection for the consumer, and IDI should also want this so as to promote downtown visits, again their stated mission. The committee to review this proposal was co-chaired by Zahn and the Director of this states restaurant association. Tamara objected to this idea tooth and nail, saying it was not necessary and he eventually dead-locked the committee so nothing was accomplished.

 

More than a year later, I went to City Councilors who were friendly to the cause and got them to introduce the full disclosure rate sign legislation. The parking partnership was tipped off and held an emergency meeting. A delegation from the partnership led by IDI's city paid employee attended the City Council hearing to oppose the legislation. They all huddled upon arrival with the IDI representative and he was their sole mouthpiece. They again said it was not necessary at all. A study subcommittee was formed and IDI led the opposition to dilute the measure although I did get the bill passed unanimously through the city council. Note that despite the fact that I have reported obvious violations; no citation has ever been issued by the city. I wonder why?

 

One important proposal from the neighborhood was for the Capital Improvement Board to lower their parking rates during events to approximate those experienced in the neighborhood on non-event nights. The CIB price structure is the root cause of the hyper-inflation; without the CIB charging higher rates no one else could increase theirs due to normal competitive pressures. The high priced city spaces act like a price support. After two years of other schemes failing, by which time I am sure IDI thought we would get tired and go away, Melina Kennedy, the Mayors point person and currently his hand-picked candidate for Prosecutor, finally agreed to implement the market driven plan submitted by the restaurant association. She told the Democratic Party County Chairman (who worked for me as a lobbyist), the State Director of the Restaurant & Hospitality Association of Indiana, and me in individual phone calls. Melina then publicly announced her intention to adopt the proposal at her last working group meeting. Zahn was furious, again having the last word at that meeting, stating that parking wasn't the problem but rather downtown restaurants just weren't attractive enough to draw people downtown. She left the meeting vigorously complaining, and I overheard her stating that she just didn't understand what we (the neighborhood) wanted, although we had just got it. Three weeks later, Melina reneged on her promise, explaining nothing more than that it was no longer necessary to do anything. The Mayors Parking Task Force never met again, despite repeated entreaties by the state restaurant association's Director and succeeding Presidents of the local chapter that the problem still wasn't solved, something the mayors own working group also concluded prior to reneging on what was to be the final deal. Two letters were then written by the officers of the local restaurant association to the Mayor stating the problem still was not solved. The first response was a standard type form letter. The second letter was sent attached to a petition with 20,000 signatures from downtown customers asking the Mayor to finally solve this problem. That received a response from Melina being mildly sympathetic but again doing nothing. I later spoke to the Mayor at a social gathering and he said that he has never seen or heard about the letters or the petition. I told him I would send copies over and his Deputy, Steve Campbell, promised he would personally get them into the Mayors hands. I later found that Campbell had lied and diverted the material to Melina. There was no response. I later handed copies of the letters, and dozens of letters from individual businesses along with the petition directly to the Mayor in his own conference room. Again, no response.

 

You should know that the first market driven proposal to solve the problem would have worked as about 50% of the spaces on the CIB controlled lots are empty during even sold out events. It was demonstrated that it was in the CIB's own financial interest (or at least not to their detriment) to discount the spaces to the non-event rate to fill these spaces as we recommended. The plan has still not been implemented, I believe because it would deprive the parking industry of that price support. A second plan was submitted, suggesting a 50 cent or 75 cent ticket surcharge for parking, and then open the CIB lots to only those with tickets. This would substantially increase the revenue for the CIB, depending on the formula by as much as 300%! They claim they need money for the new football arena, but won't do what is clearly in their own financial interest. Why? I have to believe it is the influence of the parking industry. A city councilor once proposed a tax on parking to subsidize public transportation, IDI was a big opponent of the idea and it never saw the light of day. You tax money is supporting the best lobbyist the parking industry can buy.

 

Over the first several years of this issue, there have been four different employees of the city lent to IDI as parking specialists to head the IDI Parking Partnership. Three have left over differences with Zahn. At least two were because the neighborhood was right on this issue and had tried to honestly help us; but Zahn would have none of that. One told me he was tasked to show continual annual increases in the number of parking spaces downtown and to keep counting until he got to the number Zahn wanted. That employee had to go way out of the area traditionally thought of as downtown to get to that number, even counting spaces at Delaware & South Towing (which is involuntary parking). Similarly, IDI reported increases in the number of people visits (to prove parking was not a deterrent) but failed to mention to the press that they increased the number of attractions they took counts from, so the count was naturally higher; not because more people were visiting downtown than before but rather they just counted people at more locations.

 

Zahn's support of the parking industry and her callousness disregard for restaurants and other downtown industries has led many downtown restaurants to drop membership in her organization. Even though restaurateurs had never been invited to sit on her board, after I wrote a Letter to the Editor that was published in the Indianapolis Star about how the restaurants did not receive her support but IDI did get a huge check from city government; only then did IDI attempt to solicit restaurants and offered a few select operations a seat at the bargain price of $5,000. Everyone declined.

 

The IDI Parking Partnership has consistently acted as a protectionist/lobbying organization for that industry to the exclusion of IDI's stated mission whenever there is a conflict. IDI's support is obviously for sale to special interests despite the fact it receives public money and is lent publicly paid employees for their exclusive use. There has to have been discussions in the closed door meetings of how to prevent a market driven solution and on how to maintain high parking rates. There has to have been discussions in those meetings on preventing independent studies of Indianapolis parking and prices, and on preventing ordinances that promote competition by forcing them to disclose rates to potential parkers prior to entering a facility. I can't help but to think that those discussions included rate charges for special events, especially since during that period the Executive Director of the CIB attended the closed door IDI meetings. However, even though public money also funds the parking partnership and minutes are kept, they are not public documents since IDI is a private group with no oversight. Why in a time of a budgetary crises is the city giving out a million dollars annually to IDI, especially when the group makes so much money by selling board seats? The groups predecessor, The Commission for Downtown, attracted enough grass roots support so as to not need public money and they did a great job because they were truly responsive to their membership. It is time for a change at IDI.

 

The Capital Improvement Board is another interesting organization. Having lunch with two separate groups of City Councilors (each group being two members of the opposite party) they both had essentially the same thing to say about the CIB, to quote one precisely “Everyone knows the CIB is the Mayors slush fund”. The Mayor selects many of the members of the board, and one is mandated to be from the City Council so of course it is always from the Mayors political party. Too bad that there is not a mandate to have one Councilor from each party on the board so there is a semblance of a watchdog on hundreds of millions of dollars of public funds, instead of the Board being a rubber stamp for the Mayor.

 

As detailed previously, you would think that any Mayor would want experts from the hotel and restaurant industries on such a board, not only out of fairness to the industries who are being taxed for the boards funding, but also because they are the experts whose opinion will be important in the success of that boards stated mission and could also help it avoid costly mistakes such as the entire special event parking mess. If people like this were put on the board, they might push the board to behave better. The best example is the Economic Impact Study done to justify hundreds and hundreds of millions of dollars in public spending for the Colts. Years ago Irsay hired the Kelly School of Business at IUPUI to do an independent study of the economic impact of the Colts on Indianapolis. Irsay was so sure it would be a huge positive that he prematurely scheduled a press conference before the report was issued and he had a chance to review the results. The objective, unbiased scholarly study evidently showed that there was no great economic impact since Irsay abruptly cancelled the press conference and never released the objective results. One can infer what the substance of that study was since one of the researchers went on to write a book called “Major League Losers” detailing the false economies of major league sports and the cost to the public of sports welfare. This work is now used as a text book in many universities. If the CIB were being good stewards of public money and worthy of the public trust, they (and the Mayor) would have insisted that this first report be made public before they spent over $100,000 on another study. Even if the report was negative, it should have seen the light of day and been part of the debate, even if a second study needed to be done. But worse is the non-scholarly work the CIB later paid for from a Certified Public Accountant which claims to be a serious unbiased economic study. For instance the sole evidence cited as proof that there is an indirect economic benefit was to ask exiting ticket holders if the “thought” there was an economic impact. Well of course ticket holders are going to say yes because the cost of a ticket receives a public subsidy. What makes an opinion poll a study of serious merit? Even if an opinion poll is a scientific measure, (and its not) why did the CPA firm only ask ticket holders instead of the general public who are taxed for the teams benefit? Doesn't the publics opinion count or do only Colts ticket purchasers count and not the taxpayer? Why didn't the CPA firm contact the surrounding businesses and attempt to get a hard measure of what the annual impact is? That would have been at least an attempt at a true econometric measure. And why would the Mayor, after reading this report and being an intelligent man, tout this as a true scholarly study instead of using this tripe as the cornerstone of his whole argument? In a democracy, shouldn't the facts be laid out before the people and let the collective wisdom make the decision, instead of this ridiculously biased report. In the private sector, if management predetermines the outcome of what is supposed to be an impartial, objective independent study; they are sued by the stockholders and the Justice Department starts to look at the preparer. It's another example of how public servants use public money to carry out private agendas without proper oversight, or in this case, a shred of honest dealing.

 

Another example. The CIB had decided years ago while the Fieldhouse was under construction to add another level of parking with about 600 spaces to the adjacent garage at an additional cost of six million dollars. The CIB staff then made a deal with the Pacers to not park cars on this level. When the garage opened I repeatedly asked the Director of the CIB why people were not allowed to park on this level and received ridiculous replies like the construction wasn't finished (when it obviously was) and people just don't realize they can park there because the landscaping wasn't finished (which failed to address why the level was roped off). I had made a Freedom of Information Act request for all the documents and was likewise stalled for months. When I finally obtained the four inch stack of agreements between the CIB, Pacers, etc. I found out the true story. The Pacers did not want the level used because it might make the rich executive suite holders a little late for their bedtime because of possible added congestion. Six million dollars of tax payer money spent for no purpose. Out of the huge volume of paperwork, this condition was buried in one little paragraph. When the actual Board was asked to vote on the document, they were handed the huge document with a short two page synopsis prepared by the staff that covered everything else but somehow failed to mention that the additional six million dollar level would not be used. Until I brought up the issue, no member of the year 2000 board that I talked to knew about this provision or that they had wasted these millions. An honest man, Board Member and City Councilor Phil Borst, was justifiably outraged and forced the issue so the level could be used. (I believe he was also the reason Council Hearings were first held, and the findings from that hearing stated that there was a real problem with downtown parking on event nights. Borst also cared enough to meet with over two dozen restaurants and hear their concerns; and then write to Zahn at IDI and told her there really was a problem. That was evidently ignored for the sake of her Parking Partnership.)

 

Another interesting thing is that the original RCA Dome was financed with $47 million in bonds, and 22 years later, 7 years after the Mayors handpicked lawyer was put at the CIB”s head, the principle on that original debt has grown leaps and bounds and now stands at $75 million as they get ready to tear it down. Of course the Mayors' CIB President agrees that the taxpayer has a right to be upset, but again declines to accept any responsibility on the part of his administration. If the CIB was mandated to have a member of the restaurant community and both political parties on the board to insure it was responsible and not the Mayors slush fund, this type of thing would not be possible. Possibly an increase in the dome tax would not have been necessary if this type of thing had not gone on. If this type of “Enron” type economic manipulation happened in the private sector everyone involved would be investigated by the Justice Department. The Restaurant Association has asked repeatedly to have a seat on that board, but the Mayor wants his cronies voting and not the experienced independent experts. I am sure it is why the Governor would not let them have the new food & beverage tax revenue.

 

The head of the Marion County Democratic Party who at the time was acting as lobbyist on my behalf once told me that government will often use a strategy of drawing the process out so long that people just give up, something I believe happened here especially since so many independent restaurateurs just went out of business or left downtown as I am. I have always suspected that the Pacers were obstructionists on these issues, but at least publicly they stated they would adopt whatever policy Melina Kennedy and the Mayor wanted them to do. Melina had no prior experience in economic development (but just as in the case of her running for Prosecutor, experience should not be an issue?) and as far as I was concerned, reneged on every pledge she ever made. Again, one of those pledges was to do a truly independent study of downtown parking, both as it stands now and also forward looking. When the outcome wouldn't have been controlled, she cancelled it even though it was already funded. Evidently fact-finding and seeking results are no more important than experience. I really encourage the press and public to take a look at any study ever issued by government or IDI, then they could not get away with this stuff.

These statements are solely my opinion.  I know many downtown businessmen also share these opinions but are afraid to speak up about the administration. (I was visited by more government inspectors in the first ten days after I first brought up the problems caused by special event parking then in the previous ten years combined.) As truth is an absolute defense for liable, and I have full filing cabinets and 5000 pages of documents in my computer on these matters, I have no problem backing up what I have said and would welcome the opportunity to do so if someone in the administration cares to make it a matter for the courts or Editorial rebuttal. If any of the public has information on this or any other disreputable actions by IDI or local government, just let me know and I'll pass it on. I already have files from lots of people on various local issues who don't have the means to bring them to public attention.   Write me at Ted@atriptothemovies.com.

Feel free to copy this or email a copy to a friend.

 

Write to ted@atriptothemovies.com

 

After serving overseas in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, my fellow soldiers and I often talked about returning home and “hanging out” at Hollywood Bar & Film Works. I can not tell you the disappointment we each felt once it was brought to our attention that the memories we were creating in our minds through those long and exhausting days in Afghanistan would never become a reality. Speaking as a soldier who fights for the rights and freedom of our nation, it saddens me deeply when our government CHOOSES to turn their backs on the “average Joe” to support the pockets of either themselves or a friend of the family. I just wanted to personally tell you thanks for the great business and service you brought to Indianapolis and even though I only resided in Indianapolis for the last 7 years, I am happy I had the chance to create great memories of downtown with Hollywood Bar & Film Works. Sad to see you go.    -Malika     

          

Today after stumbling around on the net I came across your story and it really justified my feelings about Indianapolis . I fully agree with what you say and I wish someone would do something to make Indy downtown more enjoyable. Fact is I hate going downtown for many reasons, parking being the biggest! I just wanted to let you know that there are many of us who miss Hollywood Bar & Film Works and are saddened it is no longer there. Shame on the city for letting you and so many other business owners down. -Cathy

 

I took the time read your ad today and just want to tell you I admire your guts and the strength of your convictions. I know all of the players in a peripheral way and the details you describe confirm a lot of my previous suspicions, especially about IDI. Good Luck with this fight. It would do the city a lot of good if Zahn or members of the current administration addressed the issues you raise. Good luck. This is what citizen government is all about.   -Joe

 

I was an employee at the Hollywood in Indianapolis . I would like to start off by saying that I loved working for you. It was the best few months of my life and even months after closing I am still saddened that I no longer work for you. I don't think any of your former employees will be able to find another work place that can compare. There were women there that were pregnant and they supported their families by themselves. I honestly I think Heather would still be there today if you had not closed. She was so lonely after that, that she took her own life.   - Elizabeth

 

I was there the last night Hollywood was open. You know it's been some time since Hollywood closed its doors and it never feels the same here in Indianapolis . Really, downtown just doesn't have the same magic. I just wanted to express how great it was having it here for 15 years. It really was more then just a place to see a movie, it was like an old friend.   -Jeffrey

 

I went to the internet to see what was playing. Imagine my disappointment to see your website. I want you to know how much I loved seeing movies at your theater. I have seen hundreds of shows there. To unwind, have a good drink and a nice meal and the opportunity to enjoy a movie (not to mention those late Saturday nights at Rocky Horror) was always my salvation. I am sorry those times have had to end. You will always be missed and each movie I see will never compare to the enjoyment I had at Hollywood . Thank you for all you have done.   -Roxanne

 

In this day and age, it is difficult for any family to find common ground on which to connect. When you do, it is the Holy Grail—the eternal lifeblood to your family unit—the glue that holds you together. Last night, my little family was disheartened to learn that Hollywood Bar & Film Works had suddenly closed. While that may be less than a blip on your map, it is a bolt of lightening on ours. Just a few short weeks ago, we had the opportunity to see “The Exorcist” on the big screen and met Linda Blair. An interesting, yet rare, opportunity never to be had again, and would never happen anywhere else in Indy. It is with heavy hearts that all of us say goodbye to Hollywood Bar & Filmworks. First, came the disappointment, then came the outrage. That being said…we have long had difficulties in visiting downtown locations because of parking prices. Anytime I ever thought about going to a downtown location the thought was immediately followed by one about how much it was going to rip out of my pocketbook for parking. It angers me that most of the rising costs are a direct result of the new Colts stadium building, though I will say it is not entirely due to that. Every time any event happens downtown, ALL parking locations are affected. If I want to enjoy an evening with my family on Monument Circle , maybe at a nice restaurant, why should I pay premium event parking when I am not even attending the event? Anytime that I know a special event or sports game is happening, I avoid downtown like the plague. Indianapolis is always trying to attract its residents to join in for special events, but why should I pay a fortune to park my car that's not going to the event with me? It is a sad state of affairs that is leading staple downtown businesses to close their doors. We will miss you Hollywood . -Carrie

 

I know it is weird getting an email from a probation officer, and I am sure you have received many emails from your fans of the Indy's Hollywood , but I feel like I needed to send you this. Mostly for personal closure, much like I had lost a family member. I became a probation officer here in Southern Indiana in 2000. Every May there is a conference in downtown Indy and I always went to Hollywood every night I was there. I told my friends about it and brought them next year, and I told more friends the year after that…and so on and so forth. Friday at work I was very depressed. My boss had me make early reservations for you, even though the conference is in May, we wanted to get as close to Hollywood as we could, because parking is an expensive bitch, and we would be going there every night and bringing our buddies with us. I called my friends from Indy to tell them about our planned date and my best buddy from Indy told me that he was sending an email right now that I needed to read. He would not tell me over the phone what it was, but he said “Jim Grizz, you are my hero, and I don't want to hear you cry.” So I waited, got the email, and was filled with sadness about your remarks and how the Hollywood was closed downtown in Indy forever. I am writing to let you know that Hollywood was and will always be the COOLEST place I have ever been. It has brought me the most fun I have ever had. Time to bond with my friends that I will never forget. I read where you have opened another one in Illinois , and maybe one day I will find the funds to road trip there and watch a movie and have a pizza. I am thankful for at least having that chance. But mostly, I wanted to thank you, even though you may not have the time to read this, but I at least wanted to feel better about finally saying it all…Thank You   -James

 

I am utterly at a loss for words. I just finished reading the article about why Hollywood is closing and I am truly angry. My husband and I have been living in the Indianapolis suburbs for the past 5 years and I was going to introduce him and two of our best friends to Hollywood this weekend. He was so excited and then, this. My heart breaks for everyone involved. We have pretty much stopped going downtown due to the cost of parking. The garage next to your building used to be the only garage we would use and when the prices started changing and going up, we just started finding other places to go. When we have to spend so much on parking, it takes away from what we can spend on the activities. The biggest problem was not knowing which events were “special” enough to change the prices. I do hope that you know how much joy you have brought to so many people in the past 15 years and hope that you have a wonderful time on your journey ahead. Good luck and God Bless!   -Shyla

 

I was saddened today to find that you have closed. I am writing to thank you. First, I appreciate the establishment you created and all of the good times I had there. Second, I want to thank you for leaving your website up and running. Albeit lengthy, your write up was informative and inspirational. I agree that Indianapolis has slowly squeezed the life out of its own downtown and the loss of Hollywood is just another example. Thank you for not going silently.       -Matthew

 

I am so sorry to hear that you closed. My boyfriend and I have come over for Valentine's Day for the last 3 years and a couple of other times in between. We really enjoyed it, and I was really looking forward to coming there in a few weeks, but to my surprise when I went to the website it had said that you were closed. I am not from Indianapolis so I did not know. We drive over from Richmond , IN by the Ohio border. Well, thanks for the memories that you gave us. The food was great, the drinks were great, and the atmosphere was great. We will miss coming.     - Erin

 

I am the caretaker of a small cat shelter that has been around for years. Myself, my volunteers, and friends all miss Hollywood Bar & Filmworks. The work that we do is very stressful at times; we used a trip to the movies to relax. Sometimes we came twice a week and I loved the Arnold Schwarzenburger, the others all had their favorites as well, I just wanted to let you know that we miss you. -Barbara

 

So mad to hear about your situation and closing our favorite movie theater. My brother is a reporter for the local AP and he has always said Mayor Bart is a snake…. and we are lifelong democrats. I am sorry I voted for Melina Kennedy and glad she lost. On a trip back from the airport thru downtown my brother-in-law pointed out how great the new stadium is looking. I wanted to scream. Indianapolis won't be a world class city until it embraces arts and culture and the uniqueness of small businesses like yours instead of driving them out! Good luck and thank you for showing us wonderful movies in your beautiful theater.   -Bruce

 

I strongly agree with the parking problems. I always feel that Indianapolis government does not care about their own people. Every time there is a game, don't expect me to come downtown. That's how much of shame it is. I have always felt that Indiana is such a backward state – with no developments. Look at our downtown, it's such an organized and beautiful and cultural place, it should be full of fun but what else can young people do besides going to bars at night? That's how I see downtown in the next 5 years. I can see myself getting out of Indiana around that time too!   -Christine

 

Just read most of the monograph you wrote: The Demise of Hollywood Bar & Filmworks. My dad owned a business on S. Delaware , and his dad before him. I sold it to the CIB to make way for Conseco Field House. You are a hero for making your views known and writing so eloquently about them. Your writing should be mandatory reading for high school economics students.     -Kim

 

Dude - you got the hammer out. Sorry, I work in the hospitality industry and I have to stay under the radar, so I'm not putting my name on this, but a lot of dysfunctional things I have observed with downtown Indy over the years suddenly make sense now that you have shined the light on them. A lot. I only hope some reporter will have the cojones to put things out there the way you have. The IBJ did it with the church of God Extension and the Star did it with the library construction; why can't they do it with IDI? But as far as Hollywood Bar & Filmworks and getting this IDI report out to the public, will it happen? Probably not, but well done. Hate to see you go!     -Anonymous

 

I read your lengthy narrative of all of the politics and corruption on IDI and CIB headed by Tamara Zahn and Melina Kennedy. This helped to explain so many mysteries. I always wondered why parking downtown was made either difficult or costly if the downtown wanted to compete with businesses in the suburbs. Unfortunately, only for the sport franchises and the parking interests. We also wondered how so much money could still be owed on the Hoosier Dome when all of the money from the restaurant surtax and event profits were going to pay off the debt. “Enron” is the right word to apply to what has been going on. I think Mitch Daniels had some insight into the corruption at CIB and wanted to keep the tax revenues to pay for the new stadium from going into “The Mayor's Slush Fund”. Finally, I want to thank you for giving us insight into the real character of Melinda Kennedy. She is not to be trusted. I hope voters get the message before it's too late. Thank you for having the courage to tell us your experience with city organizations run by these dishonest and corrupt people. Maybe the media will be shamed by the fact that you scooped them on a story that they miss or ignored.   -Brian

 

How about it Indy Star, WISH, WXIN, WTHR, WRTV??? I heard the WIBC interview! Was the whole downtown parking issue buried in favor of the Mayor's interest???? All this recent talk about Peterson's “LEADERSHIP ABILITIES” we've recently heard now sounds highly questionable!!!   -Anonymous Indy

 

Are you serious? The press seriously and comprehensively looks into anything with the Peterson administration? I agree with you 100%, but it isn't going to happen. Watch for the opening of 300 East in the Julia Carson Building soon!       -Rphillippi

 

I am quite saddened to hear that Hollywood Bar & Film Works has closed! I grew up in Indianapolis and have many wonderful memories of nights spent at your theater. After traveling extensively over the country I have never found a theater experience as unique or enjoyable. Not even in ACTUAL HOLLYWOOD CALIFORNIA, where I currently live! You provided your patrons excellent food and drink, comfortable leather chairs, “stadium” seating, reasonable prices, and a safe haven for smokers. It was the perfect movie-going experience without question. The loss of Hollywood Bar & Filmworks is truly a loss for Indianapolis . Let's face it; there's not much to love about Indy. But it made me PROUD to sit in your theater and be greeted by “Bob and Tom” among other local celebrities on screen. It made me feel like this was INDIANAPOLIS ' theater and nobody could take that away from us. I can't tell you how many countless people over the years I've bragged to about “The best theater in the world” and it's home in downtown Indy. Hollywood Bar & Filmworks has always been my “must do while in Indy” selling points for first time visitors and it's a pretty exclusive club! For what it's worth, your theater was ALWAYS something for me to look forward to each year when visiting my home town. Sadly, as the city changes, each year I have less and less reason to come home…or even call Indianapolis home. I just wanted to thank you for serving local Indianapolis community so well for many years, and for giving me such great memories! You will be missed!!   -Kevin

 

Just wanted to say, we are upset that you have moved out of Indianapolis . We have been going to Hollywood every week since you first opened. Our date night has always been at Hollywood which always included the best pizza in town. Not sure what to do now that you're gone. Your establishment has spoiled us so much that we can't go to a regular movie theater anymore. Some of your employees have become great friends over the last 15 years and we will miss them so much. I enjoyed bringing Christmas gift bags for all of your employees. We were glad to see that you had the guts to say something about the unfair parking situation and the non-support of local businesses in the downtown area. We support everything you said. We have been in mourning for 2 weeks now and still don't know what to do on date night. Thank you for 15 wonderful years of great movies and delicious pizza. You were the BEST movie theater in Indianapolis , by far, and we will miss you.   -Steve & Launa

 

Hollywood was not just a place to see a movie; it was a place to talk, love and live. When my son was finally 18 I was able to take him there to relax and really enjoy dinner and a movie…after he moved out, I went with “gal pals” as a night out without the kids. Most recently that was the only place my sweetheart and I went because it felt like home…we would go about 3 times a week…We were even at a pre-movie show when another patron proposed to his sweetheart!! We sat there, waiting for the movie, we enjoyed the slide show and realized that at some point that no one else, but two gals were sitting in the back with us but LOADS of people were in the front. Well at one point, one gal behind us said…”awww that is “our song”…”and her friend tried to get her to look at the screen instead of talking. On the screen was “Mary…” then another slide said “will you marry me?” It took a few minutes for her to realize it was her and took us that long too. He came upstairs with a box in his hand, the house lights came up and everyone below stood up and cheered…she was in shock of course and said yes. Now where else can that happen? I wish Hollywood would find a new home elsewhere. But whereever you go, we would like to know and rejoin our “family” at the movies. Thanks for listening. -Cindy

 

I can't tell you how saddened I was to hear that my beloved Hollywood Bar & Filmworks closed. This was by far the greatest place in Indianapolis not just to take the out-of -towners but anyone you knew. The good service, excellent food, and fun atmosphere were keys that led to this great small business success. It seems that the Mayor directly forced you out of Indianapolis . All I can say is that man is a fool for letting such an integral part of downtown life go. You were the business I touted when friends said “ Indiana is stupid - there's never anything to do. I would always retort, “Well, have you ever been to Hollywood Bar & Filmworks?” Your business and all the joys it gave me will be missed and I will look for you whenever I get the chance to travel near Chicago . Unfortunately, I live in Indianapolis where apparently if good times that aren't part of a major sporting event they are frowned upon. I wish you and your business the best of luck and hope to perhaps see you one day back in Indianapolis . -Ed

 

I was so disappointed to hear that one of my favorite places in Indianapolis closed. I want to thank you for years of enjoyment. I started going to your movie theater when my kids were little and they could enjoy the movie for free and I could actually afford to feed all 4 of us and we could spend a good Saturday there. I have just started having my first grandchildren, the oldest is 2 and we were planning to visit your establishment and start the tradition with another generation. My heart is saddened that I won't be able to enjoy the same great times in your movie house with my grandchildren as I did with my children. I just wanted to send my two cents worth of thanks and let you know you were very much appreciated while you were here.   -Eleanor

 

I have been hearing nothing but good things about Hollywood Bar & Filmworks for years. I hadn't ever investigated for myself until a month or so ago. I just started college this fall and am now living downtown. After my first visit to Hollywood , I decided I'd become a regular. I absolutely loved it. I was very sad to hear that you closed. I understand your reasons and appreciate you and those like you who really do care about your customers. Everyone I ever talked to about Hollywood loved it a lot!!   -Courtney

 

I'm so sorry to see you leave Indianapolis and your downtown location. My first trip to Hollywood Bar & Filmworks was to see “The Wizard of Oz” on the big screen. It was something I've enjoyed every year since with the Munchkins. I made sure that my friends and I went once a month or so and always when you had a visitor in the house. That always made it special and you've got to love the chance to get an autograph. So I'm sorry you're gone. You'll be sorely missed. We just need to take a trip to Chicago ! -Terry

 

I have been a yearly member of the Hollywood Bar & Filmworks for so many years I can't recall when I first joined. Probably the year you opened. I understand the parking situation. It has always bugged me how they jacked up rates for special events. It didn't always keep me away though. If I wanted to be there, I'd paid. Sorry others didn't feel that way. Hollywood was my favorite place to go downtown and is for my entire family. We are very sad about the news. E-mail me if my family can help save our favorite spot. -Linda

 

There are so many people that LOVE Hollywood . My friend and I went there together at least once a month to relax after work and our trip last week didn't happen. I bought my brother gift certificates last year to Hollywood and he was ecstatic. There is NO place better than Hollywood to watch a movie. My friends from out of town loved going there and were all very upset to find out that Hollywood had closed. Please, Please, Please, Please bring it back!     -Cherise

 

I went to your website today to check out the movie times and to my amazement you are now closed. My husband and enjoyed going to Hollywood for over 4 years now. We had our first date there and now have been married for 2 years. In fact, most of the wait staff knew us and would already know what we were going to order. We had a baby 8 weeks ago and hadn't been to the movies in about 5 weeks. We were looking forward to visiting you on Friday, but we will have to find something else to do. I read your statement on the website today and completely agree with the parking situation. There were many times my husband and I would drive down to see a movie and parking was way too expensive and we could not justify paying $20 for parking to see a movie. I do hate that parking problems have caused you to close Hollywood , but we completely understand. I just wanted to send our support and let you know that Hollywood will be missed.   

-Jason & Nicole

 

It was a breath of fresh air to read your newspaper articles. Nothing like honesty and bear facts. Our illustrious Mayor has done some dirty underhanded things to a lot of people and has hurt and is hurting a lot of good people. I've been involved in some meetings and am appalled at the way he gets things done. The Indy Works program for one. He is ruining public safety. I am a retired Marion County Deputy Sheriff and our retirees are losing insurance benefits etc., the active officers are losing much more. Sheriff Anderson is just a puppet of Peterson's. The officers have no one to stand up for them. Public Safety is at risk. Thank you for standing up and being heard.     -Jane

 

I just read the online version of your Indy Star advertisement. Sorry to see you go.

We used to come down to your theater, and while I don't remember consciously thinking about parking prices, downtown Indy just became too much of a hassle, too much of a risk. I have a small business in Broad Ripple and we were approached to put a location downtown. After my experiences with inspectors, short sighted politicians- and the clear tendency for those in office to seek legitimacy by attracting institutional restaurants that come from out of state - I smelled a rat and decided against it. Government does not support small business, no matter where they're located, but especially not downtown.

It doesn't support new ideas, especially those that are home grown. Of course I have to continue to do business here and I have experienced the retribution of those in office. Sorry to see you go, great to have an outspoken and honest opinion in print again.   

-Bill

 

I just wanted to say thank you for the memories! Hollywood Bar & Filmworks was one of the really great features of Indy and it is a great loss. Thank you for all your information about what went on with the Mayor and Melina Kennedy. I own a small business. Our local politicians have their heads so far up Simon's back side its unreal! What happens to the little guy…you guessed it; we get screwed again and again.     -Shell

 

Hello…my name is Linda and I want to thank you for your email to give people like me a chance to speak to you. Words cannot express how sorry I am that Hollywood closed. I didn't know you were closed until my sister told me after I suggested we go see “The Departed” there. The first place we thought of was Hollywood - how ironic. When she told me it was closed, it was as if someone had taken a knife and stabbed me in my stomach. I am so crushed and I hope you will receive this email in the heartfelt way it is being sent to you. I remember when Hollywood opened; I cannot tell you how many visits I made downtown. I remember when you expanded and I was so happy for you. Sometimes I'd come early just so I would have time to linger over the posters. Then there were the birthday parties, get-togethers with friends for a night at the movies, or just by myself on margarita night. I ran into the same problem you mentioned that others ran into. Parking downtown during special events. I'm very disappointed something could not have been worked out but I understand (but don't agree with) the Mayor. I fear that if this keeps up not only you and Majestic will be gone, others may follow. In fact I hate to admit it, but the last time I was downtown was at a job fair held at the convention center. Pretty sad, heh? - Linda

 

I was aware of the parking problem – hell, that's why WE don't come downtown! However, knowing that a fantastic place like Hollywood Bar & Filmworks has closed makes me so sad. This should have NEVER happened! I'm on disability-hubby doesn't make a lot - we'd make a real treat of a rare night downtown. We'd come to your place, eat, drink, & be merry! We could almost always find a free spot on South Meridian St , or sometimes even a good handicapped spot! Not anymore. We could go to a comedy club downtown, but there's something missing if we can't afford to eat or even have a soda because what extra money we had to spend went to over priced parking. So there ya- go; another voice telling the powers that be that they've priced us right out of an area we support with our taxes, but do they listen? We'll miss your business -it was such a great place. I'm sorry you got-pardon me-screwed! I hope another city will appreciate what you have to offer-our loss is their gain. And three cheers on laying it all out in the Star!!!   -Diana

 

I am one of the true admirers of your place and always refer it to everyone I know. It's really sad knowing it's now closed, nowhere else would I go to enjoy a movie? If I had the money I would love to bring your idea with the same enthusiasm to my home country. Thank you for all the good times there.   -Paloma

 

I read with great interest your newspaper report of the closing of a wonderful place of good food and fun. My family, friends and I will miss you greatly. It was always a treat to come downtown and see a movie and have a dinner. I am sorry the city has treated you so badly and I wish it could be fixed. I think you are a brave person speaking out and telling it like it is. I know many who read this had no clue this was going on in our city. Thank you for many years of great entertainment. You will be missed.   -Joyce

 

In reading your comments regarding the lack of support for your business by the IDI or the city of Indianapolis , I could certainly empathize with your situation. You are correct, all too often when people gain “power” through the government they often use their economic clout to wait you out hoping that you will run out of money and give up. I can only hope that through the election process we can put people in office that can stand up for what is right and just honorable for all the citizens.   -Rick

 

Very well written article on your website. I just recently moved downtown and have been irritated with parking. I have lived in the Indianapolis area all my life. The parking issue is definitely bad. I usually end up parking in the mall because it's $1.50 but why wouldn't they make it $1.50 in every parking garage all over the city. More people would come downtown more often. I loved Hollywood and hate to see it close. My boyfriend and I would go there throughout the week. We would have to search for parking on the street and if it was a game night forget it. There is hardly any parking available unless you want to pay the price of parking for special events. Anyway I am very sad to see you leaving Indianapolis because I have just started making Hollywood a tradition. Thanks for all the memories!!     -Jane

 

I've been to your establishment quite a few times in high school; the Rocky Horror Picture Show gave me something to do and made me feel special. Later, I went to watch other movies all the time. When I saw that you were closing, I was deeply saddened. When I was away at college, I asked why there weren't any establishments similar to yours. I just wanted to thank you for making my adolescence a little more fun. And also I wanted to thank you for bringing this corruption to the public light, especially since it took a paid advertisement in the Star to do so effectively. Hollywood will be missed.   -Amy

 

It is alarming to see the control exerted by the NGO's. I seem to recall a news article regarding the condemnation of some parking facilities. The stink seemed to be that the city was condemning them, then transferring control to the CIB, then to one of their hand picked pet organizations to “manage.” The transference of property from one private party to another through governmental discourse is very disconcerting. You are correct in your assertion that the city should provide discounted parking. This would encourage businesses and customers to frequent the downtown area. The parking problem downtown is so bad that I have chosen to keep my business away from there – where the parking is free.   -Steven

 

I would like to extend my gratitude to you for having the courage to address the parking nightmare downtown. Hollywood Bar & Filmworks will certainty be missed. Corruption tends to know no boundaries and has no scruples – I too, have been the victim of Denison and the city of Indianapolis linked parking woes. I was forced to quit my job last week due to parking difficulties. I worked at a business in the Spaghetti Factory building. Our company employees park at the Union Station Garage. The steel doors on the garage, the horrible pavement on Meridian St. , the steep grade, terrible weather and the distance proved too much for my arms and body to take on a daily basis. I approached my boss to see if I could secure parking in the Circle Center mall parking garage- I could easily negotiate the “cat walk” from the mall into my building. My boss received a “run-around” from Denison even though they admitted that the handicapped spaces were “under utilized” by mall patrons. This forced me to park on the street an entire week. The cost is 1 dollar per hour. I was forced to leave my office every two hours to place money in a meter or receive a parking ticket. On Friday co- workers took me to lunch at Alcatraz and I was unable to get to my car in time. I received a 20 dollar parking ticket on top of the money that I had placed in the meter all morning!!! I basically can't AFFORD to work downtown and was forced from my job. Now that is “Capital Improvement.” My boss even approached the Mayor's office last week - but no help. Thank you for listening, I just felt someone else needed to know the truth.   -Dale