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August 7, 2005Letters to the EditorAt Issue: Traverse City Film FestivalA positive experienceI was a volunteer at the Open Space for all four nights of the film festival, and I would like to say it was great to see all who came out, locals and visitors alike. Moviegoers were kind to each other and very cooperative when we had to ask them to please move back from the ropes, etc. Also, kudos to all of my fellow volunteers. I'm looking forward to next year's festival. Karl A. Bielman Traverse City Protesters missed out I had the time of my life checking out movies downtown at the Traverse City Film Festival! I am grateful to everyone who made it possible for a local girl like me to see such quality stuff! It's so sad to see that the founders of the Traverse Bay Freedom Film Festival totally missed the point, and missed a great opportunity for unity in this town! They would not just see it for what it was: Some Traverse City residents bringing good, creative movies to this town. Period. But the Freedom Film Festival founders had to go and make some big political and moral stink about the whole thing and cause divisions, rather than seizing an opportunity for peace. Now the newest prejudgements are "Oh, you went to the Traverse City Film Festival? You must be a liberal." Come on. I feel so sorry for everyone who protested the Traverse City Film Festival. They missed out on a really great thing. Miriam Pico-Benghauser Interlochen Documentaries lauded An open letter to the people of Traverse City. The creators of "In the Face of Evil: Reagan's War in Word and Deed" want to thank the people of Traverse City for the warmth and hospitality shown to us over the festival weekend. The generosity and graciousness shown to us this weekend proves that America truly is a wonderful place where people with different ideas can come together to argue, debate and disagree, and still be friends. Though we were part of a competing film festival, we dream of the day when a film that portrays the unparalleled accomplishments of a true underdog, a man voted by the American people as the Greatest American of all time, can be seen as just a great film and not viewed through the prism of partisan politics. We're also thankful to Michael Moore for raising the profile of documentary filmmakers of all stripes by helping to make what was a marginal art form, mainstream and accessible. Without his gains, we might have no forum to screen at all. You've shown that Michigan stands for heartland values. We hope to see you again. Daniel Fleuette Hunt Valley, Md. Daniel Fleuette and Tim Watkins are the producers of "In the Face of Evil." Reminder of 'old days' Wow! It was great of Michael Moore, the staff at Interlochen Arts Academy and all the hard-working volunteers who performed their magic to make our first film festival an event to remember. Traverse City was transformed last week. The movies were excellent, and the air was electric. Local people were running into old friends, strangers were chatting with strangers discussing what they had seen, what they liked and what they planned to see. Stores were open late and seemed busy. I know I spent a few extra bucks here and there. It reminded me of the Traverse City of 30 years ago when I used to take my kids to the Cherry Festival. Back then, it was a celebration for us, produced by us, enjoyed by us and all visitors were welcome to join in the fun. I never thought I'd feel that energy again. Congratulations to all who worked so hard in producing this special week. It was amazing. Dodie Bedell Beulah At least one good thing Congratulations, you have wasted so much ink in Section A of your paper in lauding Michael Moore and bashing Bush that not as much ink comes off on my clothes when I read and enjoy Sections B, C and D. John A. Caswell Kewadin Give credit its due What's all the fuss over Michael Moore? Prior to Nov. 2, 2004, the filmmaker was regaled by Democratic Party elites, garnering a seat next to Jimmy Carter at the party's convention. Following John Kerry's loss, when it became evident that left-wing extremists like Moore had done more harm than good in the Kerry campaign, his status among the party's leaders went from "speed dial" to "Maytag repairman" overnight. With all his spare time Moore conjures up a film festival in Traverse City. Meanwhile, his nemesis George W. Bush has only managed to lead the world in a global war on terror, overthrow a genocidal dictator and install free elections in Iraq, oversee a national economy that has shown 13 straight months of strong gains and is poised to appoint a conservative to the U.S. Supreme Court, the first of at least two vacancies he will have the opportunity to fill over the next three and a half years. Mr. Moore will surely be back next year. Conservatives, relax and enjoy the festival. And when you see the big guy around town, be sure to shake his hand and thank him for helping give us four more years of "W." Jeffrey L. Shaw Traverse City Letters appreciated I read the letters to the editor in the Record-Eagle's July 28 edition regarding the film festivals in Traverse City. It was one of the best reads I have had in a paper in a long time. I appreciate the Record-Eagle for publishing different views about the festivals. It made me so proud of our "citizens" for their bright, and thoughtful letters. I laughed out loud several times, mostly due to the cleverness and graciousness of their thoughts in print. Recognition should go to all of the volunteers, business, and community members who have made this fabulous source of entertainment possible for all the people who live in and visit our beautiful community. Remember, this was not Michael Moore's film festival but the Traverse City Film Festival. And special kudos to a personal friend of mine, Katie Stanton, whose letter was included. A well-thought-out and graciously written letter. Out of the mouths of babes. Shannon Gillespie Lake Ann Tolerance on both sides We want to thank the residents of Traverse City for the hospitality we received during our visit. The Traverse City area is one of the most beautiful places on earth! Our organization, American Film Renaissance, was proud to sponsor the first annual Traverse Bay Freedom Film Festival. Our festival, unfortunately, was dubbed the "anti-Michael Moore festival." AFR's official position is that Traverse City should welcome both festivals! It would have been a huge mistake for Traverse City to turn down the tourist dollars Moore's event brought to town. And it would be a mistake for Traverse City not to support his festival in the future. But it was also a mistake when liberals, in the hundreds, applied intense pressure on the Park Place Hotel, and the Horizon Ten Cinema, demanding that they not allow us to screen films at their facilities. And it was truly despicable when some of our organizers received threats to their personal safety. Liberals are quick to remind us about how "tolerant" they are. But what is tolerant about shutting down an opposing point of view? And what is tolerant about threatening to injure someone with whom you don't agree? Jim Hubbard Dallas, Texas Jim Hubbard is founder of American Film Renaissance Hats off to Traverse Congratulations to the people of Traverse City for hosting a fantastic film festival! Michael Moore dropped in on our local film festival up here in Sault, Ontario, recently, and created quite a stir in the community. When we heard that he was involved in the in Traverse City festival, we just had to make the journey, and check it out! What a fantastic event! What a great community you have! Traverse City is a beautiful town, the people are wonderful, and we had a fantastic time. Our only regret is that we could not stay longer. We look forward to visiting your fine community again, and can't wait for next year's film lineup. Hats off to Traverse City! Ron and Debbie Sheaves Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario A round of applause Bravo to all involved in bringing the Traverse City Film Festival to life! Founders, sponsors, "behind the scenes" volunteers -- all deserve a hearty pat on the back for giving the Traverse City area a deep breath of fresh air. Offered were wonderful stories and documentaries that both entertain and challenge us. After all, no person betters themselves by "living in a bubble." Film is an amazing medium through which we can see our world from different points of view. It inspires, provokes, enlightens and dazzles. It taps into raw human emotion ... with no regard for one's political pulse. I deeply enjoyed the films I attended and look forward to eventually viewing those I reluctantly missed. And how about the ole State Theatre! A forgotten, but once again integral part of our community landscape, sparkling and alive with activity! The inflatable screen by the waterfront was another genuine delight. To sit in the Open Space amongst thousands of movie-goers, in silence, sharing in the same experience, was extraordinary. Finally, a round of applause to the thousands of attending movie fans who made the festival an absolute success, thereby guaranteeing it's return next year! Traverse City has spoken: "Encore! Encore!" Fred Taghon Traverse City No political agenda My comments on the Traverse City Film Festival -- I do not like Michael Moore. I disagree with his views. However, I commend him for bringing this film festival to Traverse City. It is a wonderful opportunity for area people, as well as visitors, to enjoy these films. It was great to see all the volunteers come together to work on the State Theatre and all the other preparations needed. I truly believe there was no political agenda. Mr. Moore saw an opportunity to use his renown to bring something positive to our community. (Gulp) Jennifer Grahl Grawn Festival was a big hit Any way you slice it, the Traverse City Film Festival was a home run for our city and our region. The State Theatre received much needed energy and attention. Visitors to the region brought dollars to our merchants. The panel discussions inspired a generation of new filmmakers. And the films! The brilliant documentaries and the classics at the Open Space have reminded us of what fun it is to go to the movies. We owe a huge debt to the many volunteers and sponsors who created the film festival, particularly co-founders Doug Stanton and John Robert Williams. But let's face it -- the event would not have happened without Michael Moore. He poured time and creativity into the film festival and made it a go. For those of my friends who have until now dismissed Mr. Moore with one-liners knocking his patriotism or his manly physique, I say it is time to admit the truth. Michael Moore is a good neighbor, a good American and a good friend to northern Michigan. Mr. Moore and his incomparable wife Kathleen Glynn deserve our heartfelt gratitude. They certainly have mine. Woody Smith Traverse City Arts brought us together For what it's worth I appreciated the work of Michael Moore, Doug Stanton, John Robert Williams and the many volunteers and sponsors who made the Traverse City Film Festival possible. My husband and I attended the first showing of "Mad Hot Ballroom" at the State Theatre on Wednesday and it was a magical evening. I grew up in Traverse City, so it meant a lot to be in the theater once again, especially to be part of our community coming together to celebrate the art of cinema. From Mr. Moore's gracious welcome, through the wonderful documentary, to the finale where two of the children featured in the film came on stage and delighted us all with some "hot ballroom" dancing, we in the packed theater were in no doubt about how very lucky we were to be a part of the opening night's events. It was a timely reminder of the power of the arts to transcend politics, to move us and to bring us together. Sally Vander Wall Glen Arbor Put labels aside I was very disheartened to read all the letters which seemed to protest the alternative film festival being held in Traverse City. I grew up in northern Michigan and have been watching the goings-on from afar via the Internet version of the Record-Eagle. Although I am no fan of Michael Moore and his ilk, I also believe the way Genie Aldrich presented herself as a Traverse City resident was wrong. In the end, why can't everyone just grow up and get along? Moore and his volunteers seem to have done a great job bringing an old theater new life, from what I read. Aldrich is also doing a bang-up job of presenting alternative entertainment. Stop putting labels on everything and everyone and enjoy the shows, for Pete's sake! This is a great chance for Traverse City to attain some recognition and everyone there seems to have turned it into a venomous war of words. If I could be back home for a week, I would split my time between the two festivals, watch some great films and soak up a few rays while I was at it! Put labels aside and instead feel blessed for the opportunity presented to you. Ann Gates Ephrata, Pa. Family-friendly movie We attended the Traverse City Film Festival's Open Space showing of "Princess Bride," with our 11-year-old daughter and her friend, and found it to literally be the most family-friendly outdoor gathering we have ever been to. The no-smoking and no-alcohol policies, ample "blankets only" area in front, huge screen and awesome sound system made for a perfect family evening. Much appreciation to all organizers, volunteers and contributors! Jim and Robin Bransky Traverse City Only 1 festival needed Why was a film filled with profanity shown at the "family values" Traverse Bay Film Festival? Why would the American Film Renaissance organization out of Texas even purchase such a film? Supposedly Ms. Aldrich did not receive the "family values" version of "Michael Moore Hates America." This makes me wonder, "who really hates America?" Traverse City only needs one film festival and it is not hers. Kay Ingraham Traverse City Festival: Do it again! We have never been to Traverse City and came just for the film festival and we wanted to commend everyone for the event. The movies were wonderful, the volunteers did a great job and from our point of view, everything went so smoothly it was hard to believe that this was your first film festival. Please do it again next year. Karen and Tony Battaglia Pittsburgh, Pa. Tremendous success Kudos to all the volunteers who worked so hard on the Traverse City Film Festival. After living here for 13 years and always feeling like a fish out of water -- running off to Chicago or Ann Arbor to see good movies, go to festivals ... It was so nice to be home and have the feel of the community pulling together. Corporate America did not make this happen, just the passions of the people banding together with their talents and tenacity. It was an extra special surprise to hear the Traverse City Central High School singers before the 7 p.m. showing of "Land of Plenty." With just a few short weeks to do what they all did is amazing. The stress had to be overwhelming at times. This tremendous success of the Traverse City Film Festival exemplifies what an intelligent, hard-working community we have, and that we know how to set aside our political beliefs for the common good of our wonderful city. I commend Michael Moore for having the vision and the confidence in our community to make this event a reality. Cindy Anderson Traverse City
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