When selectman set a public hearing on Robert Anastas' request for go-go dancing, the bar owner was upset, saying he did not need the permission.
Robert Anastas and Gary Plamondon
WARE — Robert Anastas, former owner of Robbie’s Place that selectmen ordered closed in 2009 after police found license violations – including nude dancers, lap dancing and “intimate” contact between dancers and patrons – now wants to allow go-go dancing, belly dancing and “bikini attire” at the VIP Lounge.
He attended Tuesday’s meeting asking for permission to allow the various forms of dancing.
When selectman set a public hearing on Anastas’ request for June 4 at 7:15 p.m., the bar owner was upset, saying he did not need the permission.
“They can’t stop me with bikinis,” he told a reporter following the meeting.
But during the meeting, former selectman Gerald Matta stood up and asked: “Isn’t it the same owner that owned Robbie’s Place?”
“Yes,” selectmen chairman Greg Harder said.
When Anastas asked why he needed to have a hearing, Harder said: “We have to discuss denying it.”
In an interview, Town Manager Stuart Beckley said provisions for live dancing by performers are not part of the VIP Lounge's current license to operate. He also said a special permit is required for adult entertainment.
The VIP Lounge owner said a pile of rubble directly behind the building has sat there for months.
“I think if it was anybody else, it would have been removed. What is up with that?” Anastas said.
Beckley said the pile would be gone in a matter of weeks.
“Why are my taxes so high?” Anastas then asked. He attended the selectmen’s meeting with his property manager, Robert Plamondon and Mike Braica, a disc jockey.