by Eric Marion

February 24, 2009

The launch of the Providence Nightlife Association is a welcome change for struggling nightclub owners. Divine Providence has tracked this story since its inception and has played a role in moving the dialogue forward. Forcing the police and Mayor's Office to grapple with the concerns of gay nightclub owners was controversial and certainly did little to endear Divine Providence to Mayor Cicilline. However, with the dogged persistence of John Dorr and the unwavering commitment of John Lombardi, the newly established PNA is an astounding accomplishment with great potential for Providence.

Attendees at Monday's event included owners from nearly every bar and restaurant in Providence. The owners of Mirabar, Gallery, Alleycat/Dark Lady, State were met by the owners of such far-ranging businesses as Ten and Lupo's. The myriad of businesses represented is a comment on the breadth of influence of the newly established PNA. Some of the business represented were Black Repertory, Cuban Revolution, Ten, as well as dozens of other restaurants and bars from the Downcity and neighboring areas. There were other stakeholders represented including the Rhode Island Hospital and Tourism Association and the Downcity Neighborhood Association. That the Mayor's Office and the new head of the licensing board were present is a comment on how seriously the City is taking the PNA.

The PNA has chosen a collaborative path to implement its goals. Some of the unstated goals will be the development of staggered closing hours and a revision of the City's current approach to parking and traffic. The stated goals in themselves are aggressive. Redefining the image of nightclubs in Providence will be a tremendous undertaking. Media outlets aren't always predictable or manageable. However, the approach taken by Dorr and Tomasso will be the most effective way of protecting Providence's thriving nightlife.

That the PNA was begun by and is now presided over by members of the GLBT community is evidence of how important gays and lesbians are to the economy of Rhode Island. Congratulations to Alex and John on your success.