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Letter To The Editor: Sounds of ‘Paradise’
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The music originating at the Star Bar at the Esplanade, ever more frequently and loudly, is ruining the enjoyment of peaceful evenings for many of the residents surrounding Smokehouse Bay.
The history of the Star Bar is long and twisted, but a building permit was granted on the condition of “no amplified music except for special permitted events.” The special permitted events started slowly, one Thursday a month, then became every Thursday and a number of extra events. Now the number has gone up to twice and occasionally three times a week.
At the outset we naively believed “ special remitted events” meant permits for special events benefiting the community as a whole such as fundraisers for or holiday celebrations. In reality it means routine business boosters for the Star Bar and restaurants.
The volume of the amplified music is excessive and without obstructions carries easily across the water of Smokehouse Bay. The “concerts” forced on us usually last a minimum of three hours.
We are disappointed that our City Council chose to double the number of permitted events, thereby ignoring the numerous objections by the people most affected.
Reinhard and Toni Westphal
Marco Island
Comments
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Dear Westphal's: While I sympathize and agree with you and fought hard to stop this activity, I guess we have to accept that the Island needs some levity and music. When the Park opens, hopefully this will cut down on your noise. The Esplanade is a good place for occasional events. I was there last Thursday to eat dinner. And I can tell you that if I had to listen to the group that was playing for 10 minutes, let alone hours, I would get some good ear plugs. Hopefully the quality of music will go up to decrease your discomfort. I sat inside just to not hear the supposed entertainment last Thursday (11/13/08).
Ed Issler
#1 Posted by lauralbi1 on November 17, 2008 at 4:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
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