Theater bust angers resident
To the editor:
On Thursday evening, Jan. 13, about 40 people were at the Island Art Foundation here on Fort Myers Beach, enjoying wonderful music and a beautiful evening. Thursday nights are for members to be able to listen to good jazz music and not have to spend a lot of money. Usually, it’s a four-piece band. However, often guests appear -examples are Gene Walker a couple weeks ago and Edison College Brass Band about a month ago. This weekly Thursday night mixer has been going on for two years.
I had offered to help sign members in at the door on this particular night. The clipboard says “members only” as does the small sign next to it. Outside the door at the entrance is a large easel board stating information about the evening and “for members only.”
After the music started, a couple came in and signed the list. They went to the back to get a glass of wine, which is paid for by putting $3 in a jar clearly marked ‘donations.’
Suddenly seven Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco officers disrupted us, and the couple that had just signed in was acting undercover. They arrested Carl Conley, director of the foundation, for serving alcohol at his private residence and Karen Mills, secretary, for selling alcohol.
My first thought was “someone is after Carl Conley” and the next was “this is political.”
I don’t know a more reputable person than Carl. I looked forward to his editorials when he had the Sand Paper and thought he always made the point clear and on target.
I’ve always thought this island special, because the people I know here are so united and giving of themselves. They are a ‘help your friend and neighbor’ people and the kind of people who enjoy socializing and listening to a wonderful jazz band.
Norma Baum
Fort Myers Beach