Most of us are no longer in Cherry Grove by Christmastime, so Cherry’s throws its annual Yuletide party in September and this year’s was on the 15th. Out front, under the mistletoe, Ken Woodhouse serenaded us with Christmas songs from his Arcade Theater, as artificial snow pelted him. The Christmas tree was in place on the Cherry’s stage.
Mainstays China, Charity, Bella, Demi-Tasse, and Robin Kradles were present to add some glamour. Bartender Rachael, working with Mike Salinari, and DJ Stacy sported mustaches. Dressed in red and green, Austin and Logan Hardcore arrived with Tommy Brannigan and danced on the bar. Dale Lally, disguised as a familiar Grove diva, and Steve and Brazilian Jerry were in festive costume, as were co-owner Donna Bianco and rainbow flag creator Gilbert Baker. There were elves, adorned with green ribbons and red-and-white striped candy canes, and there were muscle guys, decked out in lights. Visitors from the Pines brought Christmas cookies. Bobby and Victor, together 59 years, and on the verge of celebrating their one year wedding anniversary, were there. Tony Bondi was there as well.
Meanwhile, up at the Ice Palace, Daniel Nardicio was throwing an Underwear party, with a special blackout, of all the lights, slated for 2 a.m. Porn actor and leatherman Collin Stone guarded the door and bartender Robby Ranger and partner Tommy wore their black leather harnesses. Much of the crowd from the Cherry’s party, having changed into somewhat different garb, made their way up the ramp as the evening progressed, and even China, still in full regalia, put in an appearance.