By: Stuart Adelberg
A few weeks ago, I heard the sad news that the Garden Cinema in Norwalk has shown its final film. You may find it surprising that the Executive Director of the Avon Theatre, our area’s non-profit, mission driven independent cinema, would be saddened by the closing of an entity that one might consider a competitor. I don’t see it that way. To me, film is an art form that needs to be seen, shared and celebrated. Anything that diminishes the community’s ability to come together, to experience quality films on the big screen, to be inspired by talented filmmakers, is an unfortunate loss. I also see the closing of a valued, family owned art house as a symptom of a much larger problem that should concern all of us throughout the region who care, not only about art, but also about our community.
We are sadly losing our sense of place. It is no coincidence that when the Garden Cinema was closing its doors the local media was also reporting on the closure of a valued, longtime family-owned retail establishment, and our local radio station was experiencing a challenge in its broadcasting accessibility. The reactions to each of these events were the same – and entirely predictable. “What’s happening to our community? Everything is being replaced by the internet or by big, national entities! This is the end of quality, personal service or local connections! What happens to the cherished longtime employees of these establishments?” To everyone who reacted this way, I would respectfully ask, “When was the last time you shopped in a locally owned store? How often do you attend a local arts event? Do you subscribe to a local paper, watch or listen to local news?”
I don’t mean to point a finger of blame at anyone. I am as much a product of the times as anyone else. But as we begin a new decade, we must acknowledge that we have allowed convenience, speed and cost to become the drivers of many everyday decisions and choices that have consequences. We are gradually replacing human interactions and experiences with smartphones, internet shopping sites, streaming media and big box stores. We are consuming as much as ever, but service, loyalty, quality and personal connections are being replaced by quantity, price and immediate gratification.
I’d like to suggest an addition to this year’s New Year’s resolutions. Think about the impact of your decisions when you choose where to shop, what to buy, what to read and, of course, my personal concern – how, what and where you go for culture, entertainment and inspiration. Local stores, media outlets, restaurants, theaters, museums and other entities are all elements of what makes a location into a community. Those who operate these establishments are family, friends and neighbors and our interactions with these people will always be far more meaningful than the clicks on your mouse.
My parents are approaching their 64th wedding anniversary! Their enduring relationship is a source of inspiration. But they will tell anyone who asks that a successful marriage doesn’t happen by accident. It takes thought, intentional acts and commitment. So, too, does a thriving community. Local people, businesses, arts and culture are essential to our sense of place. If we truly care about this, and I know that we do, then we have a shared responsibility to ensure their continued success! This year, I resolve to support local businesses and non-profits, media, and, of course, arts and cultural institutions. Please join me!
