VIP Lounge owner Robert Anastas of Springfield applied for the change on March 28 – and told selectmen in April he did not appreciate that it would take months for them to schedule the hearing. The bar is located on West St.
Robert Anastas is shown behind the bar at the former Robbie's Place in Ware in 2005. WARE – A controversial businessman who wants more exposed skin – but not total nudity - at his barroom will speak before selectmen on Tuesday for an amended license.
The public hearing at town hall on June 4 begins at 7:15 p.m.
VIP Lounge owner Robert Anastas of Springfield applied for the change on March 28 – and told selectmen in April he did not appreciate that it would take months for them to schedule the hearing. The bar is located on West Street.
His handwritten request to amend his entertainment license seeks permission for "Karaoke, recorded music, live music, sports related parties, television, go-go dancing and belly dancing." He said there would be no nude dancing, but there would be "bikini attire."
Anastas used to own Robbie’s Place on Pulaski Street. The site is now a barber shop.
Selectmen ordered Anastas to close Robbie’s Place in 2009 – when police determined there were license violations at the establishment, including nude dancing, lap dancing and “intimate” contact between dancers and customers.
According to Ware Town Manager Stuart Beckley, live performance dancing is not allowed with Anastas’ current license to operate at VIP Lounge. Also, a special permit is required for adult entertainment.