A Chattahoochee restaurant has found itself at the center of heated controversy.
Bleachers and Blayke’s Billiards has become talk of the town since announcing its plan to host the Girls Night Out Show.
The establishment, known for its family friendly atmosphere and casual dining, has no plans of canceling the memorial weekend event. The announcement, made through the restaurant’s Facebook page seemed harmless, however, as the word spread, so did the backlash.
Brittany Moffatt, owner, is defending her decision to host the event.
“I do not have an adult business, I own Bleachers, a family restaurant, “ said Moffatt.”
“It’s a private isolated event for adults 21 and older,” Moffatt, who also owns 23 properties in the area, explained.
“For those who want to attend, purchase a ticket and come, don’t want to come, don’t buy a ticket,”she added.
Moffatt said she wants to provide a variety of entertainment options for their customers and is confident the event will be conducted in a respectful manner.
During a recent City of Chattahoochee council meeting, several residents shared their thoughts on the event – some in favor and some against it.
“God has blessed us here because we have honored him,” expressed Melinda Cort. “I see on Facebook there’s an event in May at Bleacher’s to have male dancers.”
Cort, whose parents moved to Chattahoochee in the 1950’s, disapproves of the event. She shared through her statement her concerns for the future and safety of the community.
“Personally, I would rather have no entertainment at all, than to have adult style services and entertainment in our town,” said Cort, who also mentioned the “Girls come have fun, ad.”
Marla Cotton’s family has resided in Chattahoochee for about 100 years. Cotton, who opposes the event, expressed her desire to keep the city’s Main Street free from male review activities. Cotton said she lived in an urban city for more than twenty years, suggesting if one is looking for a variety of different activities to move to a bigger city.
“The small town living is the strength of our town,” said Cotton, who also suggested moving the event outside of the city.
The event has sparked a conversation leading to raging debates. Locals even question the meaning of their community.
“I think it will bring a lot of people to the area,” said Ildesonso Worth, who has lived in Chattahoochee for seven years. “It’s a girls night of fun, where people can enjoy.”
John Allen has lived In Chattahoochee for the past eight years. Although he doesn’t plan to attend the show, he’s not opposed to it.
“The people with the old ideas are the ones complaining. I think it’s a great idea as long as it is controlled,” Allen said. “The windows should be convered, and doors locked.”
Madison Amador works as a waitress at Bleachers and Blayke’s Billiards. She spoke in support of her employer.
“I believe it’s a private event. She (Moffatt) hosts fun events including kid’s events, kid’s parties, Christmas events providing toys,” said Amador, who shared the upcoming Easter egg hunt for kids on March 30, at 5 pm. and adults at 8 p.m.
Christine Quadagno is new to Chattahoochee, calling it home for just more than a year. Quadagno says the first place she visited was Bleacher’s.
“This should be praised and not stumped on,” said Quadagno. “Look what she’s doing to the overall. She does things in outreach.”
Quadagno said she plans on purchasing a ticket along with her husband.
“We all need a good laugh.”
Melinda Cort petitioned the City Council members to consider adding additional addendums to cover any potential gentleman’s club or future adult entertainment.
Kiwanis White – Gadsden County News Service