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Topless Coffee Shop Opens in Vassalboro

February 24, 2009 - VASSALBORO -- To the chagrin of some residents, Grand View Topless Coffee Shop on Belfast Avenue opened its doors Monday.

The controversial businesses drew opposition from more than 50 residents who turned out to hearings before the Planning Board in January. Despite complaints and objections, town officials said there was nothing they could do to stop Donald Crabtree from opening the shop.

On Tuesday morning, a small sign hung out front the log-cabin-looking shop, listing the hours: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. The outside windows were blocked with promotional posters for New England Coffee. Up the entrance ramp to the front door, a sign read “Over 18 only,” while another at the door said, “No cameras, no touching, cash only.”

Inside, two men sip coffee at their booth; the rest of the tables are empty. Nearby are three topless women and one topless man. Blue Oyster Cult’s “Don’t Fear the Reaper” plays on the speakers.

Brothers Dick and Rene Brochu of Augusta, ages 60 and 59, said they decided to stop by after hearing about the shop from friends.

"I really hope it works," Dick Brochu said. "It's different. I kind of like it. If you don't like it, I say don't come in, stay away."

Topless waitress Susie Wiley, 23, of Farmington, said she went for the job because it’s “something different” and that she’s worked in coffee shops since she was a teenager.

Asked whether the shop is degrading to women, Wiley said, “No, I love it. I find it very empowering, not degrading.”

Wiley, who also worked 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, said customers have been “completely respectful.”

“We’ve had men, women, couples -- all walks of life,” she said.

Submitted By Scott Monroe,
Staff Writer, Portland Press Herald
Submitted on Tuesday, Feb. 24


Lakes:
Regions: Mid Coast


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