Resident would like to see solution to Purple Heart Theater dilemma
To the editor:
In your paper of Jan. 19, I read with regret that there are some problems with Thursday evenings at the Purple Heart Theatre. I understand that these evenings are for members only. My husband and I paid an annual membership fee, and we have enjoyed a good many Thursday evenings. At the door we are in the habit of paying $10 for our supper, a “bottomless” soup bowl. Usually we are invited to help ourselves to a drink. There are soft drinks, coffee and some wine and beer. There is a jar into which one can put a contribution towards the cost of the drinks. But we have never thought that that was obligatory – just a voluntary donation. It never even occurred to me that there might be anything irregular.
I have enjoyed these evenings greatly. I like the music and the fact that there is no loud amplification to damage my ears, as usually happens in bars and similar venues that offer entertainment. One perches on stools or sits at tables, chats with one’s neighbors, taps one’s feet and has a good time. The evenings end quite early so that the neighbors should not be disturbed. Even I, a fanatic about peace and quiet at night, would not object to living next door to the Purple Heart.
My husband and I have always found the proceedings at the Purple Heart entirely respectable. We have never seen anybody drunk. We have always had a good time and gone home in a good mood.
The Purple Heart is such an asset to our island community! After all, now that the cinema has closed, there is not much else in the way of entertainment actually on the island. There are a few concerts at various churches, which are very welcome, but few and far between. (I don’t count the bars that offer entertainment because the music is usually painfully loud).
I very much hope that a sensible solution can be found so that the Purple Heart can continue. It is hardly a money-spinner! If all overheads are considered, it might not even break even. The organizers love jazz and want to share it with others. I believe that that is their motivation. Were it to close, it would be a real loss to our community. If some things have to be done slightly differently in the future, I’m sure that can be done. I am waiting for constructive discussions between all parties and a good solution!
Gertraud Short
Fort Myers Beach