Though no longer the owner of The Senator movie theater in Govans, Tom Kiefaber is reluctant, if not unwilling, to let his baby go. At a meeting downtown on Wednesday final approval was given to Buzz Cusack to take control of the theater and make several changes over the coming months that should benefit many Baltimoreans looking for a top notch movie-watching experience. This meeting, however, did not go on without incident.
Kiefaber was present (on his own accord, he had no reason outside of personal curiosity) and had no interest in sitting quietly while his beloved theater was handed over to the new owners who won an auction for the property earlier this year. He proceeded to interrupt the meeting and attempt to lecture those present about the fraudulent behavior of the Baltimore Development Corp.
Although his frustration at losing the theater is understandable his actions were completely out of line in this situation. Let’s also not forget that it was under his direction that The Senator reached it’s financial doom and had to be run under the city’s control until a new private owner was found. Had he been more fiscally responsible with the theater he may have been able to remain in control of it for the rest of his life.
It seems clear that Kiefaber is most upset at losing his personal control of the property. If he was concerned with the well being of the theater or the neighborhood then he would see what a positive impact Buzz Cusack could have in revitalizing The Senator. All he would need to do is take a short drive down Charles Street to see what Cusack has been able to accomplish in the Station North area. Anchored by The Charles theater the Station North neighborhood has seen a renaissance the last few years with numerous restaurants and businesses opening. Cusack has already expressed his desire to add at least on restaurant to The Senator that can be the prime pre- or post-movie destination for those in search of a quick meal, much the way Tapas Teatro has assumed that role at The Charles.
Tom Kiefaber has spent much of his adult life working to keep The Senator afloat, but his protests to its takeover need to stop. The theater is likely to be revitalized by Cusack and his team, which will only continue to benefit the Govans area that is already on the rise with the popularity of the revived Belvedere Square. Until Kiefaber backs down and accepts the benefits of new ownership he can continue to hold as many grudges as we wants as well as this award: The Cot of the Week.
