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The River Reporter Thursday, March 16, 1995 Nude women still dance By TOM RUE MONTICELLO - Building inspector John Drobysh told the Thompson town board on March 7 that he went beyond his authority when he ordered Passions at Peppy's, on Cimeron Rd., to close down."It appears we may have acted in haste by flat out revoking their certificate of occupancy," he admitted. Drobysh said he still hopes to close rid the town of unclad dancers by forcing compliance with rules on the number of toilets in relation to employees, and other technical issues. He joked with the audience seated around him over whether he would conduct daily, or nightly, inspections. Passions is the only lounge in Sullivan County featuring entirely nude dancing, though several advertise topless go-go. No alcohol is served and only adults are allowed in. Nonalcoholic beverages are priced substantially above average, plus a cover charge ranging from $5 to $8. The motel must apply for a permit from the planning board, Drobysh asserted, since unauthorized improvements were allegedly made by converting the use of the lounge to entertainment for the general public, not just overnight guests. Passions reportedly employs as many as 10 strippers on a busy night, plus six waitresses and others. Drobysh questioned whether there are adequate toilet facilities for the number of employees and guests currently maintained. "Without planning board approval they can't have all-nude dancing," he asserted. In addition, Drobysh said lights outlining the edge of the motel roof are prohibited by zoning. If the owner does not cooperate, a summons to town court may be issued, Drobysh said. Passions had until March 10 to answer three letters requesting remedy of the alleged violations. Drobysh said he was uncertain who owns the property. The board involved itself in the issue when employees at Marcel Dekker, a book warehouse next door to Passions, complained at a February 21 meeting. Passions is managed by Richie Cohen of Middletown, who said he hires dancers from outside the area. The mortgage is held by Stephen J. Luisi, Jr. of Summerville, SC, according to public records. Tax bills are mailed to Leslie Wenger of Goshen. |
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© 1985-2006, Tom Rue. All rights reserved.
