Hey Guys...I'm the owner of View bar, and have been the only consistent partner since I opened The Break - way back when Chelsea was just a little girl. I'm so sorry that we won't be part of your Gay Pride Weekend as it has always been my pleasure to serve you on this great historical day. The truth is we had fallen behind in our rent and had promised the landlord that he would be paid in full on Monday, following this weekend. Even though we had never fallen behind in all our 25 year history, he chose to exercise his right to close us on Friday at 4:30pm, when nothing could be done.

When I first opened The Works there were over 100 gay bars in NYC...now we don't even number 50. Back then gay bars were a necessity, if you wanted to hook we. the pier, the park, the trucks and the baths were it. We were the safe, sane choice. Now one only has to sign on and order in. No shower, shave, multiple outfit changes or small talk is necessary. I know, I've done it. However, there is also no first locking of eyes, no buzz in your groin, whiff of his scent, feel of his grope or taste of his lips. And in no time he is in your bed performing an intimate act on ...you (or you on him) sometimes without even exchanging names.

Now there is a time and place of everything and the internet is included. I just feel sad, on this historical weekend, that what our comrades fought for and rioted about was the right to gather (in a bar.) That right is now so discounted that NYC's gay nightlife is disappearing - and by our own hand. The straight bars are not diminishing in numbers... we are.

I'm sorry, I didn't start out to write a lecture. I only wanted to tell our friends and neighbors what had happened and from the horse's mouth. I don't know, yet what Monday morning will bring. I just know that the revenue we were counting on to bring us current is not to be. Not to mention my co-workers jobs, health insurance, and so on and on...I have spent the past 30 years in service to the gay community and I have enjoyed it...and it has been good to me...I was hoping and planning to continue and bring something more wanted and needed to the community... next. Obviously, I am now unsure and am anxious to hear your comments.

Have a Great Gay Pride Weekend!
Be Safe!
Have Fun!

Big Bear Hug to ALL!
-Daddy Andrew