To the Editor:
I have been a frequent guest of the Egremont Village Inn since it was purchase by Sara Keene several years ago.
I am writing to counter Ms. Bachelder’s negative account of the Inn, and I’m especially baffled by her implication that the sins of the previous owners somehow should be passed on to the Keene family.
Specifically regarding the barn:
Mrs. Keene’s restoration of the barn is a labor of love. She intends to restore it at great cost because it deserves to be saved. She also sees it as an opportunity for becoming a gathering place for the South Egremont community as well as for guests of the Inn.
I would like to ask Ms. Bachelder: How many offending decibels would emit from yoga classes, classical guitar recitals, string quartet performances, book club meetings, lecture series, play and poetry readings, film showings and children’s programs? I would also remind her that there are barn doors that can be closed.
I’m baffled why Ms. Bachelder has taken such a negative attitude on what could be a cultural asset for the whole community. Why can’t there be an open discussion about the numerous opportunities for both the Inn and the barn, where members of the community offer their own suggestions, in the spirit of cooperation and collaboration?
In closing, the Egremont Village Inn has the potential to infuse the town with a new spirit of community. Every business person knows that it takes a few years to become established, with many expected bumps along the road. Mrs. Keene has put her life savings and soul into their enterprise and deserves to be given a chance to succeed, which includes creating a cultural treasure for South Egremont.
It would be a civic mistake to lose this opportunity, offered with the honest and good intent on the part of the Keene family.
Hugh M. McElyea
Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida
