After the Work Week
Though winter hasn’t officially set in, the snow sure has. So far, this has meant shoveling more of it than cared for off cars and getting excited about a supposed “blizzard.” For most of us, the snow has merely become an obstacle in our daily commute. As for you skiers and snowboarders, yeah, yeah we get it, you’re happy.
Regardless of how much snowfall there is, one activity that no amount of snow seems to deter us from is a weekend out, and right about now, a lot of us need to get out of the house.
Most lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community members hibernate during the week. And after hibernating for nearly a month now while the snow has fallen and temperatures have dropped to truly bone-chilling conditions, we have become (yet again) accustomed to the bitter cold and winter conditions. What this means is that (as previously mentioned) cabin fever will set in nearly every weekend.
This is good for our friends who run the bars, clubs and lounges we frequent, and truly good for us that they remain open, pouring our drinks and welcoming us with open arms and heater lamps — although I still wish JAM had its heated rock bench (it was amazing, but then again, the wait to sit down was ridiculous).
This winter, there are a lot of events going on to benefit the Utah AIDS Foundation and several other organizations — events to which I’m sure you have all R.S.V.P.’d. The Red Party was a success as always, and the Pink Party is sure to be the same. I hope to see you all there.
Many more events are also springing up, but not in the usual sense. From birthdays to anniversaries, these parties are sure to be held at established places, because no one has the parking (thanks to all the snow) for their friends and guests during the winter.
We all (for the most part) work hard then come home and decide to stay there, watching movies or TV and settling in until the alarm goes off in the morning. But when the weekend rolls around we owe it to ourselves to relax and have fun — that’s why we work, right? So when our budget allows it, we can buy nice things, drink cold drinks and have fun. We should live it up while we can experience this winter wonderland.
A word of caution, though: Please do everything in moderation and while keeping your safety and others in mind. DUIs are rising in Utah, and so is the number of police officers “sitting” outside waiting to catch someone “riding dirty.” Designated drivers are preferred, but let’s face it, we always leave them at home. So call cabs or find alternative modes of transportation.
OK, my public service announcement is over. Now onto some key spots for the winter. Oddly enough, I have a few recommendations out of “left field.” The Trapp actually has a lodge feel to it and has been quite pleasant the last few times I have ventured there. I suggest giving it a try. JAM is always, in my eyes, the “Cheers” of the gay community, but Piper Down and The Red Door are two up-and-comers that will likely prove to truly be a delight during this cold season. Take my word for it and give them a try. Meanwhile,Studio 27 is sure to put on a great show and warm the air, as is Edge which is becoming more and more a hot spot for the Saturday night crowd.
I am looking forward to the holiday season, which is now in full bloom. It always adds cheer and merry (men) to the mix, and people are usually happier during this time.
Remember to tip your bartender, make some new friends and always be safe, as the holidays tend to bring on the urge for more drinks and calling out “shots?” to your friends.