Hello,
I’m an investor in Hoosick Falls, and I have to say, I’m somewhat distressed about reading a story like “New Bar Causes Problems.” The flavor of the article is “look at what this bar is doing to the town.” However, a lot is being left out that is worth mention. For instance, nothing is being said of the absolute run down condition of the Third Base Bar and how it was on life support prior to Halftime’s arrival, the general run down condition of the “business district” as a whole, which is just short of pathetic. (There is potential, but much work is to be done). This is a business district sorely in need of a successful business. Halftime is succeeding in actually drawing a crowd, doing something for the Hoosick Falls economy and creating a little buzz in a buzz-less stretch of town.
“This never happened with the other bars in town.” Well, maybe this is a bar actually worth going to – which might be the difference-making point that is worth exploring. Public disorder can be found in any place with a glint of nightlife, but it happens here, and the bar is hyped as a negative force and a disturbing shock to the community.
The bar owner was “defensive.” That didn’t strike me as a particularly neutral statement. Granted, it would be great if the new successful business was Amish quilts or selling gingerbread pastries with a portion of the proceeds going toward orphan charities. Obviously, the people want something else.
Another issue the story glosses over is the question of living in the ‘business district.’ Why are there residences in the business district? Because it overwhelmingly points to the lack of success of businesses themselves in the downtown area. There is a lot of empty run down space. In fact on the corner there is a crater from a burnt building.
My father ran a very successful nightclub in New York City for almost 20 years. There is a tsunami going against the entrepreneur to begin with – the last thing it needs is attacking press (especially given the limited media outlets), the terrible economy, etc.
David Cooperman
Commenting online about the Village of Hoosick Falls Board Meeting report posted on November 14, 2008.