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Paying homage, that is what this issue is all about. The bartender! Being on both sides of the bar, both bartender and customer, forces you to look at this sometimes glamorous, but always fabulous job. Many years ago, I was told by a wise old queen "when someone buys you a cocktail, you tip the bartender". With this advice, I always found that I always received special treatment and usually great conversation. Bartenders are not only mixing your cocktails, they become social workers, therapists and psychologists. From the many years that I spent behind the bar, I met some extraordinary people and made some lifetime friends. I heard stories from the people that paved the way for the great life we have today. Stories of being thrown in a patty wagon after a raid in a bar that served gay clientele, or how gay men and women would wear certain attire to let each other know of their sexual preference. Most of these people were in a club or tavern and it was the bartender that made them welcome and safe. So this issue is dedicated to those fine men and women that serve our community, providing us cocktails, giving us comfort and telling us we've had enough. To these great folks, we raise our glasses and salute! And always remember the bigger the tip, the better the cocktail. Thanks to all
of you! |