First Sisters, now the Double L.
New Year’s Eve was the last night for the Double L, the leather bear bar at Rehoboth Beach. Sixteen years was a great run, but now Delaware is back to having no outlet specifically geared towards the leather crowd. Local sources say a straight bar will be opening in the location soon but other sources say the property is up for sale, so only time will tell.
And next up is the DC Eagle, which first opened its doors in 1971. That’s right, it’s closing down too. But the good news here is that when the current location closes shortly after MAL weekend in January, they’ll reopen this summer at its new, fourth location (can you believe that?).
The new DC Eagle is a three-story warehouse that will feature a dance floor, live-entertainment stage, restaurant, roof deck, smoking lounge and retail shop. It’s good they’re going to have so much to do in one place, because I hate to say this, but the new location at 3701 Benning Rd., N.E. is kind of out in the middle of nowhere.
Change is inevitable, and the changes in our community have been fast and furious over the last few years. It’s just a shame that the price of marriage and other social advances seems to be the loss of some of our more fun and unique cultural institutions.
But you kids enjoy your Grindr, Scruff and Manhunt. That shit’s fun, too.
More Free to Love Film Festival
Catch more of the Free to Love Film Festival at International House, 3701 Chestnut St. Festival films address gay, straight and other sexual themes from defining times in our cultural history.
Next up is “The Telephone Book” at 8 p.m. and “Fritz the Cat” at 10 p.m. Jan. 18. Both of these cult films are from the early ’70s and reflect the social and sexual politics of the decade. Tickets are only $9 and are available online, along with more information about the festival schedule, at www.ihousephilly.org/calendar.
Ladies King Day Party
Join the ladies of Ladies 2000 from 3-9 p.m. Jan. 19 at Top Dog, 2317 Marlton Pike (Route 70), Cherry Hill, N.J. Get there early for the $1 cocktails, enjoy the hot buffet, dance it off with DJ Steve Singer, then relax and watch the NFL playoffs on the big screen.
Yes, you may have to cross a bridge to get there, but no, it’s not likely that the Christie administration will be effing with the traffic on it. That didn’t go too well for them last time.
Fitness, Body Love & Sexercise
Work on those New Year’s resolutions from 7-9 p.m. Jan. 19 in the Sexploratorium at Passional, 317 South St. Learn the basics of exercise on your way to a healthier body image and greater self-acceptance. Dr. Timaree will show you how all this can add up to increased stamina, improved flexibility and better sex! Tickets are $20 for general admission or $15 for students and can be purchased online or at the door. See www.passion101.wordpress.com for more info.
Philly Burlesque Battle Royale
Catch the weekly battles at 9 p.m. Jan. 21 and 28 at Tabu Sports Bar and Lounge, 200 S. 12th St. A 10-week competition is underway, showcasing a variety of burlesque performers with a wide range of styles, experience and genders, all competing for the ultimate crown. Who will survive until the competition climaxes on March 11? Be there every week to find out!
Giovanni’s Room 40th Anniversary
There’s something very special happening from 7:30-9 p.m. Jan. 22 at William Way Community Center, 1315 Spruce St. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance to see past and present owners of Giovanni’s Room as they share stories about our beloved hometown LGBT bookstore’s fabulous history. Hear how it grew from humble beginnings to one of the cornerstones of our community, and how it is now the oldest continually operating LGBT bookstore in the country.
Thermal 2: Mercury Rising
Baby, it’s cold outside! But the cold won’t stand a chance at 10 p.m. Jan. 23 at Medusa Lounge, 27 S. 21st St. Slip into your long johns or union suits and crank up the heat at this NSFW party, back on Thursday nights for your dancing pleasure! DJ TRPRKPR and DJ Sharyn Stone will warm you up and keep you moving all night long. For more information, check out www.facebook.com/NSFWparty.
Questions, comments, need motivation to take those Christmas lights down? Contact Jim at [email protected] or follow him on Facebook for links to back articles and some totally bitchin’ retro music videos!