Metroline Online

Once again the big one is here to be dealt with.  If you were thinking about Mombo, that guy you met at the clubs last weekend, you would be slightly off.  I am talking about the NYC Pride parade.  As with most people in the gay community, I am sure plenty of guys are willing to argue that theirs is bigger, but for us in the Northeast, I have to say that NYC pretty much takes it.  Unfortunately, most people don’t or can’t enjoy a sojourn to the Big Apple in order to partake in the festivities there.  But don’t despair my friends, there are plenty of other celebrations all over to experience.  Whether you travel to the city, or to the left coast, up to Providence or out for the evening at Gotham’s block party, the key is to get out and not just show your support from within the community, but to party with friends you know and ones you have not yet met.  It’s your day to enjoy so get out and enjoy it.

As I have beaten the drum before, there are many things to be celebrating this year.  Acceptance as equals is soaring through the roof each and every day and it’s great isn’t it?  But there are some things we need to keep sight of.  The very acceptance we are experiencing is leading many doors to being opened that weren’t before.  One example is the clubs.  The straight/gay divide is falling.  The problem is one of balance.  The gay population is being welcomed into those very bastions of straight club life with unparalleled acceptance.  As gay men and women, we are more than willing to partake and further our being seen as equal.  But it is significantly sided in that direction.  Yes, we see more straight partiers in the gay clubs but not enough to balance out the number of gay people taking their business to the straight clubs.  All I am asking is for our community to remember the clubs that have been there for us all along and keep patronizing them with some of our business.  Bring your new straight friends with you. I don’t care what anyone says, no one does dance clubs better than gay club owners.

Speaking to the club scene, we unfortunately are losing one of the community’s landmark establishments.  The Brook is scheduled to close its doors for good this month.  Touted as the oldest gay club in America, it has become a victim of the economy for one, the changes in the gay culture another.  It’s current owner, Clem, has done everything.  Unless he finds a golden egg between now and the closing, the Brook will fade fondly into the memories of many people who have graced the doorway during its long and colorful history.  Clem, the community thanks you for all the effort you have put forth in trying to save this icon for us and we have our fingers crossed in the eleventh hour.  For now I am getting back to making my Pride plans and I hope to see you somewhere Out and About.

Tags: 2010, 37-12, LATE JUNE