IU should buy Von Lee theater

Some faculty members have requested the University purchase the now-defunct Von Lee movie theater from its current owner, Kerasotes, The Associated Press reported. The faculty members want to use the theater to show films for classes and conferences. \nThis is a good idea, and a way to preserve one of Bloomington's treasures.\nThe Von Lee has not been in use since Kerasotes closed it in early 2000. The 71-year-old historic landmark sits lonely and in disrepair near the corner of Indiana and Kirkwood Avenues. If the University were to buy the theater from Kerasotes, it would save the building from its current state and be able to bring film back to Kirkwood Avenue. \nSince its inception, the Von Lee has been host to many movie dates. Many alumni and current students have seen films there. Surely, the University would like to preserve a part of history for current students and those who have already graduated. \nThe faculty members have requested the building be used to show films for classes and conferences. What better place to show movies than in a theater owned by the University just off campus? The theater would allow those attending conferences and classes to get away from campus and into a more comfortable atmosphere for watching presentations and movies. \nThe Von Lee could also be used to showcase student films that are created in film classes or independently house a film festival every year for students so they can view their peers' work. The theater could even be used to house the Union Board films, especially those films that sell out quickly to students. More comfortable than the Indiana Memorial Union's Whittenberger Auditorium, the theater also has a concession stand that could be used to generate more revenue for the school.\nIndianapolis is home to the Heartland Film Festival, which runs every fall. If IU bought the Von Lee, it could negotiate a deal with the Heartland Film Festival to show movies in the theater, and bring in additional revenue for the school from ticket sales and concessions, while providing a nice venue for the film festival. Better yet, the University could work with the community to create a film festival of its own. \nIf the University could draw big name locals such as John Mellencamp, who recently had a film premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, come to Bloomington\'s film festival, there would be huge publicity for the school and the community. \nIU needs to buy the Von Lee theater. If not for the revenue it will bring to the campus, then for the opportunity it will afford student and Bloomington community filmmakers to showcase their work, and the opportunity local audiences would have to see classic films.