A new beacon for New York nightlife will be ignited this fall in the heart of Manhattan – DISTRICT 36. The brand new, custom-built nightclub injects originality and vitality into the scene and will once again put forth New York City at the center of global clubbing.

District 36 will revive the tradition of classic New York dance clubs built for dance music enthusiasts by building on the pillars of the proper NY club: impeccable sound, exceptional music programming, superior hospitality and a dancefloor that gives you the intimacy of a small room but the power of a mega club. The three-level nightclub will feature an impeccable sound designed and engineered by Gary Stewart Audio - legendary for designing sound systems at some of the most renowned clubs around the world. In addition, the club has assembled a team of nightlife professionals who bring vast amounts of experience and expertise in building a successful nightclub.

District 36’s Musical Director Taimur Agha will be programming nights with the same philosophy behind his much-respected BlkMarket Membership parties: booking artists who have inspired him as a DJ and bringing in the talent that he would want to play alongside. In addition to bringing in the BlkMarket Membership parties for a new residency, both BlkMarket residents Taimur and Fahad will also be serving as District 36 resident DJs. The club’s much anticipated line-up, based on talent and ability rather than overhyped profiles, will provide a vital platform in NYC for the best in international DJ talent.

District 36 will also feature the next incarnation of Victor Calderone’s illustrious EVOLVE DJ residency. The legendary New York DJ handpicked the club to begin the next chapter of his legacy based on the club’s commitment to superior sound and its focus on building a technology-driven room for the next generation of clubbers. On the importance of his residency Calderone says, “As a DJ it’s important to establish a connection with your audience and after traveling the world, instituting a regular base in NYC is like coming home. This residency will be a fresh start and as an artist it’s important to evolve, reenergize the crowd as well as myself and always stay ahead of the curve. Together we will build a new home for clubbers.”

Beyond the club events, District 36 Special Events Director Lee Blumer, formerly of Hammerstein Ballroom, crobar and most recently M2, returns to nightlife with her talented team of consummate professionals. Her wealth of experience in film, Broadway, fashion and signature product launches will bring a sophisticated level of service to both large-scale events and intimate gatherings.

Call 917 701 6205 for more info

A new dance club slated to open next month is hitting the NYC nightlife circuit with high hopes of revamping the city’s club scene. District 36, located on 36th Street in Manhattan, is aiming to “revive the tradition of classic New York dance clubs built for dance music enthusiasts,” bringing in a few key players to do so.

The Musical Director behind District 36, Taimur Agha, is the same guy behind the well-known and well-respected BlkMarket Membership parties. Using the same philosophy for booking acts, Agha will create a line-up that’s “based on talent and ability rather than overhyped profiles,” according to the venue’s press release. New York native Victor Calderone is set to bring his EVOLVE DJ residency to the new NYC nightclub, while BlkMarket residents Taimur and Fahad have already been cast as the District 36 resident DJs.

The club has also brought in Lee Blumer (Hammerstein Ballroom, Crobar, M2) to direct their special events and Gary Stewart Audio to design the sound system.

The opening date for District 36 still hasn’t been announced, but Eater did some sleuthing and found a post on the Nokturnalist message board that pegged September 17th as the opening date, with DJs Adam Beyer and Ida Engberg rumored to be spinning the party. Nothing has been confirmed just yet, so stay tuned Clubplanet for updates.

Top 10: Pickup Cities for men

Are you and the guys thinking about a boys-only trip sometime soon? No doubt you’ll want to find a place with fun and sun, two things you can easily determine for yourselves, but what about finding a destination that promises the best chances of scoring with the ladies? That’s where we come in.

We’ve judged 40 major U.S. cities by three all-important criteria for playing the field while out on the town: First, to ensure free agents, we examined the number of singles in each city; available women are obviously a necessity. Then, we evaluated each metro’s nightlife and cultural offerings to confirm pickup opportunities existed. (The former equates to happening bars, restaurants and clubs, while the latter means ballparks, museums and concert venues.) We carefully scrutinized all the data to develop this list of the top 10 pickup cities in the U.S.

Number 10

Nashville, Tennessee
More than just honkytonks and honeys (though it has plenty of both to spare), Nashville packs a big wallop when it comes to a having good time. Music City continues to grow as a major hub in the southeast, amplifying its southern hospitality and, more importantly, attracting pretty little ladies from miles and miles around. Couple that with its killer live-music venues and unexpectedly cosmopolitan nightlife and you have the perfect mixture of down-home fun and sweet southern nights. While in Nashville, you’ll no doubt enjoy looking for love in all the wrong places.

Top Picks: Legend’s Corner and the Gulch

Number 9
Las Vegas, Nevada
Be careful what you wish for in Vegas, because you just might get it. Sin City forever draws a large, rowdy crowd of wild-eyed partygoers laying it all on the line. The partying lasts 24/7, and the opportunities are endless. You get exclusive strip clubs, high-stakes poker and all-night debauchery… all with no-strings-attached guilt (sounds like heaven to us). And while we all know there’s no such thing as a sure bet, the odds of picking up a lady-friend in Vegas are definitely in your favor, maybe even as good as 2-1.

Top Picks: The Voodoo Lounge and the Palms

Number 8
Austin, Texas
Don’t let its quirky persona fool you; better yet, let it pull you in. Austin offers some of the wildest nightlife -- and hottest singles -- in all of Texas. Thanks to a large population of hip 20-something residents, thumping live-music joints and electrifying nightclubs, Austin makes no apologies for being an in-your-face, all-hours-of-the-night party. You’ll have ample opportunity to strike up a conversation (and maybe even have a sleepover) as you roam about the city.

Top Picks: The Warehouse District and Sixth Street

Number 7
Chicago, Illinois
Magnificent opportunities abound in the heart of the Midwest. Chicago’s big-city amenities and small-town charm make it a city that offers the best of both worlds. For hardcore urbanites, the Windy City delivers swanky clubs, upscale restaurants and posh parties; for more laid-back naturalists, it provides beautiful parks, lively beaches and inviting neighborhoods. But much better than all that are the people. Chicagoans are a proud, fun-loving crew that loves to welcome one and all to their city; that’s what makes playing the pickup game there such a breeze.

Top Picks: Wrigleyville and the Gold Coast

Number 6
Seattle, Washington
Overshadowed by its gray reputation, Seattle is this list’s “sleeper” pick. Aside from the coffee shops on every corner, Seattle enjoys an intriguingly subdued, sophisticated nightlife and cultural environment, all of which lend themselves nicely to smooth pickups. This metro’s laid-back nature and young-professional population also provide the ideal components necessary for easygoing introductions and casual conversations. Approach Seattle in the proper way and you’ll find yourself enjoying pleasantly sleepless nights.

Top Picks: Downtown and Fremont

Number 5
Denver, Colorado
A mile-long list of pickup opportunities awaits you in Denver. It is the place for scoping out the ladies. On top of its excellent weather (the city claims to enjoy 300 days of sunshine annually), Denver supports an active, outdoor climate that’s perfect for meeting single ladies in numerous spots. In Mile High City, you can take your pick of pickup places: Denver offers 10 professional sports teams, 90 golf courses, over 300 restaurants, and countless bars and nightclubs. Needless to say, Denver is the perfect playground for running your “A” game in a new locale.

Top Picks: LoDo and the Golden Triangle

Number 4
Los Angeles, California
They say everyone knows someone in Los Angeles, which bodes well for networking a crowded L.A. bar. And, being a city filled with stars, L.A. shines with an ultra-posh, trendy lifestyle that’s primed for hits and misses. Since this city definitely operates by the “see and be seen” motto, it overflows with individuals constantly on the move. Plus, its star-struck clubs and fast-paced bars create a jumping environment filled with ladies out on the prowl. That said, if you’re playing the field in the City of Angels, your chances of hitting it big are astronomical.

Top Picks: Hollywood and Venice / Santa Monica

Number 3
Miami, Florida
Miami is your ticket to the hottest game around, and people come from all over the world to get in on the action. Beneath a scorching sun, Miami’s singles scene ignites with even hotter clubs and the hottest bodies you’ll see anywhere. Together, all of its elements comprise one of the most sensual, vivacious cities in the world. In fact, the smoldering inhabitants of this party-crazed city, whether they be natives or imports, live to party and socialize all night long, and you’ll find chances to score with Miami’s exotic beauties until the wee hours of the morning. Beware, though: Unless you’re a serious contender, you’ll be sidelined after the first heat.

Top Picks: South Beach and South Beach

Number 2
Boston, Massachusetts
In Boston, the only thing bawdier than the accent is the singles scene. A high concentration of colleges makes for a large 20-something crowd. But it’s more than just the singles. Boston’s nightlife statistics are staggering: 212 nightlife options, 99 outdoor and/or sporting venues and 315 museums and other attractions. Package all this together and you’re bound to have an obnoxiously high percentage rate of successful pickups. Boston represents what every man’s vacation should always be about: Legendary sports teams, awesome Irish pubs and countless college girls.

Top Picks: Newberry Street and North End

Number 1
New York, New York
If you can’t make it there, chances are you can’t make it anywhere. New York maintains its reign as America’s preeminent city when it comes to being the best pickup city in the nation. For one, there’s no singles scene livelier or more expansive than the one running about in the Big Apple; what’s more, this notoriously vibrant metro overwhelms you with bars, clubs, museums, theaters, parks, and special events. When you and your buds spend a night on the town in NYC testing the market, you will no doubt feel like kids in a candy store. After all, how could you go wrong in the city that never sleeps?

Top Picks: The Meatpacking District and the East Village

a world of opportunity
Not all cities were created equally. That’s why we offer you this list of 10 that far exceed all others when it comes to playing a quick game of pickup. Unfortunately, though, we can only direct you to the best locations; unless you have a highly talented wingman, you must ultimately close the deal all on your own. Good luck, gentlemen, and safe travels.

Your New Favorite Bar
Six notable nightlife openings.


The Castello Plan
1213 Cortelyou Rd., Ditmas Park, Brooklyn; 718-856-8888
Named after Jacques Cortelyou’s first map of Manhattan, this beguiling wine haven fits right in along Ditmas Park’s burgeoning restaurant row. A glass façade welcomes visitors into a spacious room seeped in historic details, including an oak wall made from a 150-year-old Missouri barn and a rewired floodlight taken from a Navy aircraft carrier. If you can find a seat at the bar, ask the bartender (who very well may be one of the owners) for recommendations from the wine list, a mammoth document featuring 110 selections from small producers in Morocco, Croatia, Lebanon, and more.

Mission Dolores
249 Fourth Ave., Park Slope, Brooklyn; 718-399-0099
The brothers behind the sterling Cobble Hill beer bar Great Harry are part of the team that turned a former auto shop into this concrete courtyard for craft-beer loyalists. Named for California's oldest standing Catholic outpost, Mission Dolores is partitioned into a central, open-air space and a glass-roofed, greenhouse-style interior, each boasting a simple, utilitarian aesthetic. The entertainment is plentiful, with two pinball machines and all your favorite classic board games on hand. Allergy sufferers beware, animal lovers rejoice: Dogs are welcome.

Amity Hall
80 W. 3rd St., nr. Thompson St.; 212-677-2290
Manhattan’s only real beer hall was created by the developers of Chelsea's Stout and the nearby Half Pint, and fills the former home of a two-level barrel factory and furniture warehouse. The basement space hosts the extensive draft line and the rowdier bro-fests, while the upstairs area has larger flat-screens, more floor room, and a dining area where one can sample stuffed burgers, flatbread pizza, and a variety of sandwiches and salads. An extensive, 100-strong beer menu can't be denied: Upstate double whites, frizzy fruit beers, and rare lambic ales brewed by Belgian Trappist monks all make an appearance … albeit in bottle form.

The Archive
12 E. 36th St., nr. Madison Ave.; 212-213-0093
Formerly Under the Volcano, the Archive boasts a subdued, refreshingly simple interior with muted walls, bare tree limbs, a few strands of Christmas lights, some black-and-white photos, and a few staid knickknacks tucked away on the shelves. More notable for this Murray Hill establishment: not a single Knicks mug, sweaty Islanders mitt, neon tube, or flat-screen.

Roebling Inn
97 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn; 718-488-0048
Jason Furlani, the man who molded the Brooklyn Inn into Boerum Hill’s favorite neighborhood bar, has opened another beer tavern on the semi-desolate western stretch of Atlantic Avenue past Smith and Court Streets. The Roebling Inn is different from both its sister bar, whose style it emulates, and Magnetic Fields, whose former space it occupies. Gone is the dark, brooding interior, as the new occupants tore out the front wall and replaced it with a giant window façade. They also added three components unheard of in the Brooklyn Inn: televisions, dartboards, and snacks.

U2 Karaoke
6 St. Marks Pl., nr. Third Ave.; 212-228-6250
Located on the top floor of the building that once housed Kim's Video (R.I.P.), U2 Karaoke offers a basic selection of beer, wine, sake, and soju. And, of course, tunes: Private booths with comfy couches are sized for small groups and cost $8 per person per hour, each with a console straight off the Starship Enterprise (Abrams, not Shatner), providing access to a catalogue tens of thousands of songs deep, as well as an HDTV for razor-sharp lyrical coaching. What does all this have to do with a certain multiplatinum rock band from Ireland? Blessedly, nothing at all.

David Berrie is doing big things this year. In addition to his debut at Pacha NYC and Pacha Ibiza this summer, he has started to stray from the typical bottle-popping club gigs where we’ve seen him in the past, opening up his sound to the true electronic music heads and the nightclubs they frequent.

This weekend, Berrie will be back in his hometown playing a party that attracts some of the best acts worldwide: Circus Saturday at Webster Hall. Week in and week out this party ranks at the top of our weekend party picks, and this week is no exception seeing as DJ David Berrie has quickly become one of our favorites.

WEBSTER HALL SATURDAYS

In the Grand ballroom - house, electronic, DJ Mike Chach
In the Marlin Room - top 40 mash ups, DJ Ray Roc
In the balcony lounge - hiphop, Sean Sharp + D.L.O
In the Studio - Live Bands

FREE FOR EVERYONE 21 AND OVER TILL 12:00AM ON THE GUESTLIST! $20 AFTER ON THE GUESTLIST!

$20 FOR EVERYONE 19 & 20 OF AGE ON THE GUESTLIST TILL 1:30AM

$30 IF YOU ARE "NOT" ON THE GUESTLIST!

Call 917 701 6205 to get on the InList.com Guestlist!

10PM TO 5AM

19+ enter , 21+ to drink

DRESS CODE
Dress to impress! *
* Neat and trendy appearance a must.

EVENT INFO:

4 Massive Floors, 3000 people
The Greatest Party On Earth
with The Flying Trapeze
Fire Breathers
Snake Charmers
Go Go Girls
4 Levels of Adventure
6 Dancefloors

CIRCUS will bring back the shows
It will bring back the feeling
It will bring back the magic
It will inspire you to remember the first time
you set foot in a club and fell in love with the Night.

VIP INFO:
VIP TABLE RESERVATIONS & PARTY PACKAGES
Please call 917 701 6205 with any questions

Webster Hall-- The oldest club in town was revamped. It all starts as soon as one treks down 11th Street, heading toward the main doors, where you'll see the deep stairwell-to-nowhere is now an entry point, dressed with a nifty neon sign directing you to "The Studio" -- an intimate area designed to hold about 300 while bands and DJs play a buffer of alt rock/ electronic that does justice to the modern sound of New York rock. The Marlin Room is still only a few steps away, and here you find even more updated fun, like new furniture and a new bar that has shifted toward the rear. Where once turntablists were forced to spin from that tiny raised space in the wall, now those who man the Mac are set up near the doorway that accesses the main entrance. Head up the stairs (with the stairwell now encompassed by plasma screens featuring cool deco-visions) and pass through the still-undefined lounge/ bar area to the Grand Ballroom that still looks...familiar. However, the back-wall DJ booth has also been ripped out as the selector now permanently holds fort on the large stage, with that gigantic movie/TV screen still in place. Finally, the upstairs balcony still offers all the trappings of a VIP area with a sweeping view, & a separate room but the story will remain the same, as this upper deck will remain mostly open to all, with little velvet-rope pretension.

Webster Hall, 125 East 11th Street New York 10003 HOTLINE- 917 701 6205

Hi

Downtown Precinct Commander Starts Nightlife Unit After Shootings

LOWER MANHATTAN — The NYPD is starting a new nightlife unit downtown after two late-night shootings in the past month.

The unit, staffed by a sergeant and five police officers, will monitor hotspots and respond to complaints in lower Manhattan’s 1st Precinct from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Wednesdays through Sundays.

“They’re basically going to be my eyes and ears,” said Capt. Edward Winski, commanding officer of the 1st Precinct.

Winski decided to launch the team after a man was killed last month near the SoHo club Greenhouse and three people were shot last weekend near the South Street Seaport.

The nightlife unit will visit every bar and club in the precinct to make sure the owners understand how to keep their establishment safe and to encourage them to call the precinct if a situation gets out of hand.

Winski announced the plan Tuesday night at a meeting of Community Board 1’s Crime Taskforce.

Despite the recent incidents, Winski reassured local residents that crime is still down in the precinct compared to last year.

“They’re isolated incidents,” Winski said. “There’s no pattern to them. They’re disputes that turned violent.”

Winski also agreed to attend a meeting of Seaport bar and restaurant owners to advise them on how to handle partying crowds before they get out of control.

John Fratta, chairman of the board's Crime Taskforce, said he thought the NYPD should assign more officers to the 1st Precinct, which covers the area below Houston Street on the west side up to Broadway, and below Chambers Street on the east side.

Winski replied that the 1st Precinct’s 210 officers make it one of the best staffed in the area. The 5th, 7th and 9th precincts, which cover other parts of lower Manhattan, have fewer officers and higher residential populations, Winski said.

A lot of sexually secure, liberal minded straight men have to adhere to insane standards that just aren't right for this day and age. So, here are ten things that are socially acceptable for heterosexual women to do, but not heterosexual men (in the general sense, of course). Both men and women CAN do most of these things, but the social implications are what often stop men from doing the things on this list. If only people were more open minded...Thanks to Ranker.Com we got this interesting Top 10 list:

1. Women Can Openly Own Sex Toys

How many guy's guys do you know that proudly own a Fleshlight?

For various reasons, some biological and some psychological, women sometimes have more difficulty pleasuring themselves sexually than men do, whereas most men are content with using their hands and a certain degree of lubricant (although lubricant may be optional… actually, so are hands).

Thus, women are often encouraged to employ sexual aids that provide steady vibration or even a faux phallus to stimulate themselves to orgasm without a partner should the need and/or desire arise. Straight men, on the other hand, are generally discouraged from owning sex toys for their own personal use. The typical fear is that a potential romantic partner, or even mere friends and associates, would consider a man needing a faux vagina (often modeled after the actual genitalia of a famous porn star) for masturbatory purposes to be either a sexual deviant, pervert or pathetic loser.

Although women don't usually flaunt their sex toys in public, and would be at least a little embarrassed when the said toys make a sudden appearance at an unprepared party, most social circles – and potential romantic partners – are pretty forgiving towards women who own sex toys for their own personal enjoyment.

Seems like a double-standard, doesn’t it?

Yes. It does. And it is one of the worst ones on this list. Because we are lonely.

2. Women Can Wear Men's Clothes To Work

First of all, men have penises and testicles. If ANYTHING, they need more space in the bottom half of their wardrobe (i.e. the kind of space skirts or dresses would allow) than women. IT'S BASIC MATH.

Given the horrific impracticalities of women’s fashion (some of which still linger to this very day) it’s easy to understand why women have fought for their rights to wear pants. Maybe they had some hurdles, like the preconception that a woman who wore men’s clothes was a lesbian or a (vaguely-insulting) “tomboy,” but over time it's become perfectly acceptable for a woman to wear pants, t-shirts, and even practical shoes.

Now what about the men? Not so much.

If a man wants to wear clothing specifically designed for a woman he’ll have to also wear the label of “transvestite.” Of course, while much of the Western World is increasingly comfortable with the idea of transvestitism, actually wearing high heels and a corset in public will nevertheless turn heads, and not in a positive way.

It's not that every man actually WANTS to wear women’s clothing, but there’s no denying it--being ABLE to do so could be liberating. I mean, have you ever worn a dress? Then you know how it compares to a pair of pants on a hot summer day, and I'm not the first to say, that THAT'S freedom.

3. Women Have Multiple, Viable, Birth Control Options

If a man and a woman wish to have sexual intercourse and protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections then of course condoms are the most effective contraceptive. But if a woman simply wishes not to get pregnant – perhaps in addition to condoms or instead of (if they are, for instance, married or in a long-term monogamous committed relationship) – they have many other options.

Birth Control Pills, shots, rings, diaphragms, patches and more allow a woman to dramatically reduce their body’s ability to procreate and what’s more, allow them to change their minds and actually procreate should they make that choice later on.

Men? They have condoms. Or condoms.

Unless they opt for a vasectomy, i.e. surgery. So it's either rubber or surgery.

One option is inconvenient and diminishes sexual pleasure, while the other is somewhat permanent. Men are still waiting on a pill, shot or some other form of reliable contraceptive that can give them control over their ability to procreate.

Frankly, most sexually active, unmarried men have no desire whatsoever to impregnate their partners… certainly not unintentionally. If there was a regular pill, patch or shot that could be taken to prevent unwanted pregnancies – particularly one that would allow men to procreate later in life, should they choose to do so – then most men would take it RELIGIOUSLY.

There are always rumors of a male birth control pill looming on the horizon, but until it actually hits the market, this will be one area men will ALWAYS envy women for.

To make things worse, though a female condom DOES exist, the standard for single heterosexuals across the nation is for him to always carry a MALE condom around. From the looks of the female condom though, that might actually be a good thing for men.

4. Women Can Openly Experiment With Homosexuality

Of course, many subcultures in the Western World are still hostile to homosexuality in all of its forms, but over the last few decades in particular, society as a whole has become more accepting of the homosexual way of life. Regardless of whether homosexuality is a choice or an innate facet of one’s being, Kinsey was already telling us over 50 years ago that homosexual experimentation is a fairly normal part of the human experience. But attitudes towards sexual experimentation are not uniform across the sexes.

While there will always be detractors, naysayers and outright intolerant bastards, as a rule a certain degree of homosexual experimentation amongst females is considered socially acceptable, even "completely awesome" (see video), whereas amongst males it is pretty much not.

Many straight women are comfortable admitting to having gone through a “phase,” or at least kissing another woman in a social setting; from intoxicated college reverie to innocent games of Spin The Bottle in their youth.

If a woman admits to these things (assuming of course she’s comfortable doing so, and that it’s the truth) she can still be considered heterosexual by pretty much everyone in the room. There’s a certain amount of potential sexism in this observation – if nothing else, men often find the idea of two women experimenting sexually so alluring that they lose any interest in being judgmental – but it’s certainly a preferable situation to men who have had similar experiences.

Sadly, a man cannot amongst most social circles admit to homosexual experimentation – no matter how fleeting, or even if they decided they did not enjoy the experience – without fear of being permanently labeled “gay” by those around them. There’s nothing intrinsically wrong with being gay, but some still think so, and if nothing else the frustration inherent to being inaccurately labeled based on healthy experimentation is so palpable that many men live in fear of being “discovered,” even to an obsessive extent... not to sound "gay" or anything...

5. Women Can Touch Each Other Openly, Men Can't

Have you ever seen two men hug each other? The accepted style for a modern “Bro Grab” is to embrace with one arm, and then firmly strike the other man’s back with the other, usually repeatedly. Some have remarked that this tendency has to do with contrast: physical intimacy tempered with physical violence, which thus cancel each other out. There is also another element to this ritual, one less concerned with social acceptance and more to do with personal comfort. The repeated pats/punches also prevent lingering physical contact with another male. The hug, however long, is rhythmically interrupted to distract from the one’s general discomfort with prolonged intimacy of any kind other men.

Women, on the other hand, can hug, hold hands or even kiss each other casually without a hint of homophobic anxiety or personal discomfort (not that every woman enjoys this kind of physical contact, of course). Comforting non-sexual contact between women is encouraged at an early age. In contrast, men are frequently discouraged from touching other men unless there’s some degree of physical conflict involved. Sports, high fives and even handshakes are all considered healthy ways of touching other men, but all involve some implied degree of violence or at least competition (many men attempt to out-squeeze each other in the middle of a handshake, although this is often merely a sign of insecurity). This in turn fosters the same discomfort with intimacy that continues to keep men emotionally stunted in comparison to women.

The fact that such a male-centric show like Entourage has main catchphrases pertaining to the absurdity of two men physically showing affection or condolence is testament to this point.

Even the word "bitch" in the catchphrase, "let's hug it out, bitch", shows how a display of aggressiveness/masculinity of SOME kind is necessary if there is any semblance of affection being doled out between two heterosexual men.

6. Women Can Dance Together

Dancing is a wonderful and highly personal form of self-expression. It feels good, it's great exercise and is even considered ultra-masculine in some non-western cultures.

Practically everyone dances at some point in their lives, at least when nobody is watching, but dancing in public is something that men are often uncomfortable with, even with a female partner.

If women think men are being ridiculous for not enjoying themselves in a group setting with members of the opposite sex, that’s nothing compared to the discomfort most men feel with dancing around other men.

Dancing with other men is not a socially acceptable practice, although nobody bats an eye when women dance together (at least, not disapprovingly). Hopefully this will change in the near future.

As with many of the items on this list, homophobia is often a factor in this case. But more than that, fear of dancing in general is an expression of social inadequacy and discomfort with one’s body and social standing.

Being ignored by those around you is one thing, but being laughed at is another issue altogether.

Add to the mix close proximity to other men in an uninhibited display of self-expression, and you’ve got a powder keg of social anxiety that most men just aren’t comfortable with, even if they are being a little ridiculous about it.

See the second half of this video, after Dane Cook's apt point, to see how awkward and uncomfortable it looks when guys even try to do this.

7. Women Can Call Each Other Attractive

Although women can be competitive amongst their own gender, they are also allowed to be mutually supportive in ways that straight men usually cannot publicly. This is due mostly to, again, the insane amount of homophobia present in our Western culture today.

Women are allowed to compliment each other’s looks free from social awkwardness, often to explicit degrees. Admitting that other women have attractive clothes, personality traits and features – even predominantly sexual features, like breasts and hips – is not exactly taboo.

Heterosexual men, however, are not generally "allowed" to say that other men look “sexy” in any context.

In fact, any compliment regarding a degree of physical attractiveness must usually be qualified out of social insecurity. “I can see why women go for him,” for example, is reasonably acceptable. “Nice haircut” is vague enough to generally be fine.

Something like, “Dude, sweet abs” might be allowed in certain contexts, usually in an exercise-centric environment. But, “Oh man, you look totally hot in that tank top?” Not socially acceptable. Not socially acceptable at all.

Here's a scene from Swingers that shows the hoops, metaphors and insane language straight men have to jump/wade through in order to compliment each other in a way that doesn't sound "gay".
8. Women Can Make Sweeping Denouncements of Men

If a woman says that “all men are bastards,” no one is likely to bat an eye, and they’re even less likely to go to bat for the male species. If, on the other hand, a man says “All women are bitches,” then social norms dictate that he’s being sexist. (Before we go any further, let’s take a moment to clarify that NEITHER statement is accurate, nor should either be socially acceptable.)

Frankly, the latter statement is generally considered so inflammatory that those who hear it are often incapable, or at least completely unconcerned with the context in which it was spoken. If a woman says “All men are bastards” because somebody broke her heart, the statement is perfectly reasonable. If a man says “All women are bitches” because a woman broke HIS heart, then he’s being unreasonable.

Frankly, this kind of momentary negativity may at times be understandable, at least on an individual level, but it leads to larger social problems.

If everyone accepts that one group of people, whether they be codified by gender, race, religion, sexual orientation or what have you, is intrinsically worthy of scorn then it fosters an environment of discomfort, if not outright sexism on either side.

But that statement is not to say that hyperbole used for personal expression should be verboten, nor does this statement forgive those who do denounce an entire gender out of genuine ignorance or hatred. It merely means that we have to be careful of what we say, and under what context we take others to task for their words.

For various reasons – many of them arguably valid – it is socially acceptable for females to insult the male gender as a whole, while the opposite is most definitely NOT considered socially acceptable. Whether you think this schism is reasonable or otherwise, it is most definitely more forgiving towards women at this point in our cultural, Western, history.

9. Women Can Wear Makeup

Much like #1 on this list, the fact that men can’t wear makeup isn’t something that many men lose sleep over. Frankly, many men have no desire whatsoever to wear makeup, but their position on make-up might change if wearing it it became socially acceptable.

Although makeup can often be worn to make one appear more attractive and feminine, it can also be used to de-emphasize features, cover unsightly blemishes and basically smooth over perceived defects in one’s general appearance.

It would be nice if we all lived in a perfect world in which everyone felt good about how they looked and was accepted based on their inherent worth as opposed to the degree to which they are aesthetically pleasing, but until that happens allowing men to wear makeup is a logical and infinitely more reasonable step.

There are certain instances in which it is 100% socially acceptable for males to wear makeup (face painting for sporting events, for example, or when one works as a model or actor), but in general, this is definitely something that women hold and keep over any men with even the slightest facial defects.

10. Women Can Choose To Have Abortions

Not that anyone SHOULD have abortions (that’s a whole different topic of conversation altogether), but the fact remains that at the moment they are a legal option for women who choose to undergo the procedure. If a woman, for whatever reason, feels that her pregnancy should end, she has the option to do so, at least in the first trimester. It’s a tough decision that nobody envies, but in the end it’s a woman’s body and her right to choose this very serious path. Men, on the other hand, are at best a part of the decision-making process.

The fact of the matter is, a female of the species cannot get pregnant without the aid of a male, at least at some point in the process. The unborn child is at least partly the responsibility of the male, provided they are around and willing to accept such responsibility. If a woman chooses to have an abortion it is their decision, whether or not the man agrees. On another, infinitely darker side, a man cannot choose to have an abortion without the woman’s consent. That would be illegal, immoral and monstrous. On the other hand, playing devil’s advocate, if a woman has an abortion without the father’s consent it is comparatively okay, a social norm that men who really do care about the well-being of their unborn children are understandably upset about. Unfortunately this sometimes leads men to try to take that decision away from women altogether by attempting to outlaw abortions, but that’s an unfortunate subject that is once again for another time.

There are many situations in which this life-altering decision belongs to a woman alone, but also many situations in which men would appreciate more input on the decision-making process, but at the end of the day women get to choose whether or not they wish to have an abortion, and men pretty much don’t, for better or worse.

Deadmau5 is alive! Not that you were assuming otherwise, but after Joel Zimmerman aka Deadmau5 collapsed on August 5th while performing at Washington DC’s 9:30 Club, suffering vomiting and exhaustion, fans were definitely concerned for the mau5. But this mau5 is mighty, and after canceling nine shows across the pond, he is ready to get back on stage and do what he does best: rock the crowd with brain-melting beats.

Deadmau5 is continuing his American tour this fall and planning on sweeping across the nation one nightclub at a time. Catch Deadmau5 in Atlanta on October 1st before he heads west to Denver on October 6th, to Seattle October 13th, and back east to New York City for a three-day run at Roseland Ballroom. With all these dates planned it’s hard not to wonder how Deadmau5 will stay healthy and properly rested, but if there is one thing we have learned from the fallen mouse it’s how to dust yourself off and get back to the DJ booth again, and again, and again.

Getting Beyond the Velvet Rope

If you are somewhat masochistic, enjoy humiliation and ridicule, and are determined to get into that oh-so-trendy club you heard about back home, here are a few pointers that may help tip the scale in your favor:

* Dress well and fashionably. Like it or not, the doorman is sizing you up to decide if you're hip enough to make the scene. If you want to get in, work it.

* Arrive early. The bouncers just ain't as vigilant at 11pm when the place is half empty. Weeknights are also a better bet. Some may say that eager beavers are disdained for showing up too early, but it's the better bet -- plus you get to find a good spot inside and people-watch the night away.

* Be polite. No matter how obnoxious the doorman may be, charm him. Giving attitude will always hinder your chances, but a nice smile and a little charisma won't.

* Don't try to talk your way in. These guys have heard it all, so don't drop names or make up some story to get in the door. If you're not wanted, why bother? If it's like this outside, imagine inside. Take your business to a friendlier establishment, where you'll be happier in the long run.

Kaine Rosado
Kaine@inList.com

Midtown is awesome. With some amazing clubs, like Pacha, and its easily accessible central location on the island, Midtown is a great place to spend a weekend night.

Someone must have given the owners of U.K. megaclub, Sankeys, the scoop because they are about to launch the biggest British invasion since that mop-headed foursome crossed the pond. Zagat recently reported that the Manchester nightclub will be revamping a former garage on West 50th Street in Midtown, creating a Sankey's satellite venue right in the heart of the Big Apple.

The club will be huge. With a projected maximum capacity of 1,100 party-goers in the over 16,000-square-foot venue, this nightclub is sure to host some amazing musical acts. Don’t fret, Sankeys faithful: the U.S. club will have a similar scene to its British brother (i.e. a revolving door of techno DJs and a strobe-heavy lighting design reminiscent of Sankeys). The Midtown megaclub is set to open in 2011, but so far this is all we've heard

Deadmau5 Collapses at Show, Cancels Tour

It seems as though the traveling and intense touring has finally caught up with Joel Zimmerman, more commonly known as Deadmau5. Last night while performing at Washington DC's infamous 9:30 Club, he collapsed, suffering exhaustion and vomiting. Medics arrived quick to the scene and took him directly to the hospital, where he's now under supervision.

Deadmau5 has been one of the biggest names in the electronic dance music world since he broke out onto the scene with "Afterhours" in 2007. But in order to be at the top of the list, he's had to put in an insane amount of work, and this primarily comes in the form of producing and traveling to play some of the biggest nightclubs and festivals around the world.

Deadmau5 is sad to inform his fans that due to strict doctors' orders, he's forcced to cancel the next nine shows of his summer tour, to allow for recovery. It's tough for an artist to get their rest while on the road, especially when they cater to a crowd that usually arrives after midnight.

The dates cancelled are as follows:

August 1st Osheaga Music & Arts Festival, Montreal Canada
August 7th Summersonic Osaka Japan
August 8th Summersonic Tokyo Japan
August 12th Cream at Amnesia Ibiza
August 13th Cocorico Riccione Italy
August 14th Papaya Summer Festival Croatia
August 15th Sziget Festival Budapest Hungary
August 17th Cavo Paradiso Mykonos Greece
August 18th Opium Mar Barcelona Spain

Deadmau5 hopes to reschedule appearances in these cities soon.

How To Not Act Like A Tourist In New York

Tourists who come to New York often become obsessed with looking, acting, and behaving like "real New Yorkers". Unfortunately for our beloved guests from around the world, they often fall short of the mark...way short of the mark. Personally, we think it's fine for tourists to act like tourists, but if your visiting friends REALLY want to pass as New Yorkers, we have a few tips....-

We're gonna show you how to talk like a New Yorker, how to walk like a New Yorker, and, most importantly, how to not give a damn about the rest of humanity, just like a real New Yorker.

Let's start with the basics.

This Is How A Taxi Works:
Taxis, we've noticed, can be pretty perplexing for out-of-town visitors. Perhaps it's beecause most cities allow you to actually call a cab to wherever you need to be picked up. New York, naturally, is a little more cutthroat about things.

The most important thing to remember is to not wave your arms like a maniac at any passing yellow cab. Remember:

If the middle lights are on: This one is free! Hail it by non-chalantly raising your arm.
If NO lights are on: Sorry, someone's in there. It's not gonna stop for you.
If the side lights are on: That taxi is going home. Waving your arm more furiously isn't going to help.

Super Supper Club: The Darby

Finally, a supperclub comes to the old Nell's space. Alexandra Guarnaschelli bought the space, which was Nell’s until 2004, and is opening up a new supper club, The Darby, with her partners from Butter in NoHo, Richie Akiva and Scott Sartiano.

The Darby is set to open Labor Day at 246 West 14th Street with a swanky décor and a distinctly “modern vibe,” explains Mr. Akiva. “This won’t be just another nightlife place,” Mr. Akiva said. “I want to bring back an old-fashioned sense of class from the ‘50’s and ’60’s, like El Morocco, a place where you can dress up, have an amazing dinner and some music and entertainment.” (Diner's Journal - NYTimes Blog)

The Darby plans to have a raw bar, small plates and a regular menu of seafood, meats and vegetarian options. The Darby will not have a dress code, though the owners hope that individuals wearing ripped jeans and t-shirts will feel out of place in such a upscale establishment.

With Akiva, Sartiano, and Guatnaschelli together again, in a space that already has a good reputation, we can see The Darby going far.

Legal Problems Mount for SoHo nightclub Greenhouse NYC Where Disgraced EMT was Shot

The State Liquor Authority is investigating earlier incidents that could lead to revocation of Greenhouse's license.

Greenhouse Nightclub in SoHo New York City:

Two people dance at the nightclub Greenhouse in SoHo. (Flickr)

MANHATTAN — The embattled SoHo club Greenhouse could have its liquor license yanked in connection with a 2009 assault on a patron and its use of unlicensed security guards, according to State Liquor Authority documents.

And the club could come under more scrutiny because of an early-morning incident last Sunday, when Jason Green, a would-be patron who had been denied entry, was shot and killed on the street near the club by a unknown gunman.

The assault case stems from an attack on March 17, 2009, when a patron smashed a bottle across the face of a man waiting for the bathroom, cutting him.

Police referred the incident to the SLA after finding that bar staff didn’t call authorities and didn’t call for an ambulance for the 24-year-old victim, SLA spokesman Michael Smith said. Police also told the SLA that evidence had been removed from the scene.

The pending state charges are part of a long record of complaints about the bar, which opened in 2008.

The SLA charged the bar, which bills itself as environmentally friendly, with allowing the 2009 assault to take place, "suppressing evidence of criminal activity" and "failure to provide medical assistance to an assault victim," according to SLA documents.

The SLA has also charged Greenhouse with using unlicensed security guards in March of this year, a separate matter that was also referred to the authority by the NYPD.

Both cases will go before an administrative law judge, and the agency will then decide the bar’s fate. The bar’s owners have pleaded not guilty, Smith said.

A Greenhouse spokesman said the owners declined to comment.

In October 2009, black patrons who were turned away from the club filed a lawsuit alleging racial discrimination, which the owners denied. Around that time, there was a stabbing inside the club. Neighbors have been complaining about noise and unruly crowds, and at a recent 1st Precinct Community Council meeting, police officials promised to keep an eye on the club.

That record of trouble came into sharper focus after Green’s death last weekend.

Green, a city Emergency Medical Technician, was killed at about 5 a.m. Sunday a block away from the club after he and a friend had reportedly been denied entry for not being properly dressed. The pair then got into a fight with several other people outside. Soon after, a man stepped from a car and shot Green in the face, according to police.

Green had been suspended from the FDNY earlier this year after he and an EMT co-worker allegedly ignored the pleas of a dying pregnant woman while they were on a break in Brooklyn. Sunday’s attack prompted speculation that Green was killed in retaliation for that incident, but police said the events did not appear to be connected.

A Greenhouse spokesman told the Daily News that none of the people involved in the fight were patrons at the club.

Capt. Edward Winski, commanding officer of the 1st Precinct, said he didn’t consider Greenhouse a problem club but that large crowds often assembled there, requiring police to visit regularly.

"We try to keep a close watch on it," Winski said.

He said officers had visited Greenhouse earlier in the night of Green’s killing. "Unfortunately we weren't there" at the time of the shooting, the police captain said.

In the days after Green's death, well-wishers streamed in and out of his mother’s apartment in Long Island City. Relatives refused to speak about the killing.

The 10 Best Clubs in the World

Our knowledge of nightlife doesn’t limit itself to North America, and that’s because our ears don’t only cover the music that comes out of this continent. We do have some pretty notorious nightclubs in the U.S., but if you haven’t seen the nightlife outside of this country, then you’re missing out on some of the top nightclubs in the world. From Germany to England, Spain to Singapore, there are nightclubs that constantly try to stake the claim as “Best in the World.” We’ve narrowed down the list to the top ten best nightclubs in the world for music, and here’s what we’ve come up with.

#10 Best Club in the World
Cielo – New York City

If you’re looking for the best house music in New York City, there are only two venues worth mentioning: Pacha NYC and Cielo. For those ravers and techno-music junkies out there who nightly crave the sounds of deep European dance music and floor-pulsing, heavy-hitting house in an upscale environment, Cielo is where it’s at. Found between 9th and Washington in the Meatpacking District, Cielo boasts a simple space, with a ‘70s playboy feel and a rowdy Ibiza flare, with nothing but house music, and those who crave it, filling the nightclub. Since 2004, the posh party haven has racked up tons of titles, including “Best Deep House Club” (New York Magazine, 2006), “Best Club” (ClubWorld, 2008) and “Best Party” for Dance.Here.Now (ClubWorld, 2009). Perhaps it’s the world-famous DJs this club attracts or perhaps it’s the reputation that continuously propels Cielo’s success that keep it going strong, but either way, it doesn’t look like this venue will be leaving the spotlight anytime soon.

#9 Best Club in the World
Club Space – Miami

Miami’s known to be a mecca for house music. Nightlife in Miami is without a doubt tops when it comes to the U.S., and downtown Miami is the home of one of the best nightclubs in North America, and one of the best clubs in the world for music. Club Space has been a staple in nightlife for Miami for over a decade now. Their Dynacord sound system is impeccable and delivers the kind of bass that rattles your soul on the dance floor. Some of the best DJ/producers from around the world, including Paul van Dyk, Sander van Doorn, Oscar G. and Steve Lawler have played and continue to play their infamous Terrace.

#8 Best Club in the World
The Guvernment – Toronto

We don’t always consider Toronto when it comes to the best places in the world to hear the best music, but in our opinion, The Guvernment has changed that stereotype. This 22,000-square-foot nightclub (or shall we say, “entertainment complex”) has been around for over a decade, and has won EYE Magazine’s “Best Dance Club” award twice during its reign. With so much space, this venue draws both DJ talent and décor from all over the world—disco balls and white drapery recall Miami nightclubs, and red-velvet-drenched alcoves filled with hookah smoke summon Moroccan culture. Rather than travel the world in search of the best nightclub, why not let the sounds and sights of the world’s best clubs come to you. The best part about The Guvernment, is that it does not just reel in DJ talent (like Chus + Ceballos who are performing this month); the nightclub also doubles as a concert venue, inviting guests like MGMT, The Black Keys, Miike Snow and Band of Horses to showcase their talent. And that’s why we consider The Guvernment to be one of the best clubs in the world for music.

#7 Best Club in the World
Stereo – Montreal

We’ll have to go with Muzik on their decision to rank Stereo in Montreal as one of the top 10 clubs in the world. The sound system at this nightclub alone is enough to entice some of the hottest DJs in the world—including Paul Oakenfold—to spin on Stereo’s turntables. Even the walls are designed to optimize the sound inside this nightclub, with an inside wall three feet away from the outer walls, creating what the venue describes as a “box in a box” technique to get the beats sounding less like they’re blaring from static-ey club speakers and more like they're coming from a recording studio. Pair the incredible acoustics with top-notch DJ talent and a dancefloor which rests on shock absorbers (to keep your dance moves and energy going strong throughout the night) and you’ve got the recipe to one of the best nightclubs in the world for music and all-around partying.

#6 Best Club in the World
Watergate – Berlin

If there’s one club that you should definitely visit before you die, it has to be the marvelous spectacle that is Berlin’s Watergate (and no, it absolutely has nothing to do with Nixon’s resignation). It’s a ridiculously well designed split-level nightlife venue that overlooks the River Spree. It’s truly a visual mind f&#k for anyone inside, and the sound is perfectly spread throughout the venue, giving everyone in the club a perfect listening experience. What it’s known for most is its LED lighting system that runs the length of the club right above you. Their resident VJ always knows how to tweak the lights to whoever is in the booth. Watergate is definitely one of the best clubs in the world for music.

#5 Best Club in the World
Zouk – Singapore

Okay, okay, we know what you’re thinking: “One of the top 10 best clubs in the world is in… Singapore??” And our response to that is yes. Yes it is. The vibe at Zouk, propelled by the music that resonates from its walls, is really what earns this place a spot on our list of the top 10 best clubs in the world. Their motto is “One people. One tribe. One dance.” Alright, we can get down to that. They regularly bring in underground talent like Danny Howells, Ricardo Villalobos, and 2Many DJs… even Paul Van Dyk has cited this as one of the world’s top clubs, saying that “Zouk is one of the best clubs in the world and if you have been there, you’ll know how intense and energetic the crowd is.” This year, DJ Mag ranked Zouk #10 on their list of top 100 clubs in the world and, as it’s been open for almost 20 years now, we can safely say that this nightclub (pardon the cliché) is aging like a fine wine.

#4 Best Club in the World
Space – Ibiza

Space Ibiza has no relation to Club Space in Miami, but they do both bring in similar acts. One thing that Space Ibiza edges on is its size. Space Ibiza is known for its all day parties featuring sets that lasts hours by names like Danny Howells, Hernan Cattaneo, Carl Cox and James Zabiela. It’s an insane scene to describe. Just think of a circus mating with an evil music festival… that’s Space Ibiza for you. You need real stamina to party with the folks here, another reason why it’s one of the best clubs in the world for music. The crowd here gets in when the doors open and Space Ibiza closes up whenever they choose. This could take a while so be sure you’re in the mood.

#3 Best Club in the World
Matter – London

This colossal venue just across the Atlantic is one of the best clubs in the world for music. Matter in London resembles more of a haunted futuristic ship, and the party is at the ship’s helm. From the lighting, to the 2nd floor walkway, a lot of bodies can be packed into this venue for their star-studded shows. From above, you can see a sea of the sweaty masses dancing along to DJ-production legends. If you get a sense that Matter feels a lot like Fabric (who’s coming up on our list), that’s because the club is actually operated and designed by Fabric nightclub. But when there’s one great DJ in town, where’s he going to play? When you combine size, design and sound, and deliver like Matter does, you’re automatically considered one of the best clubs in the world for music in our books.

#2 Best Club in the World
Pacha – Ibiza

What is there to be said about Pacha Ibiza. Just the two words together—“Pacha” and “Ibiza”—proclaim this nightclub as one of the best in the world for house music. Erick Morillo speaks volumes on this spot, and as one of the leaders in the house music industry who has chosen Pacha Ibiza as his summer residency for 13 seasons now, he knows better than anyone that Pacha Ibiza is a reigning force in the nightclub world. DJ Mag ranked Pacha Ibiza #5 on their list of top 100 nightclubs in the world, and with a resume stacked with the likes everyone from David Guetta and Tiesto to Steve Lawler and Carl Cox, Pacha Ibiza deserves a spot on our list of the top 10 best nightclubs in the world for music.

#1 Best Club in the World
Fabric – London

Once Fabric opened its doors back in 1999, the legendary venue quickly began bringing in the big names in electronic music. They made it a point to bring in the best, and that continues today. Their main point was to upgrade the acid house experience for the 21st century. Ricardo Villalobos, Jeff Mills, Jesse Rose and Luciano all consider this place to be their favorite club in London to play. The booking team at Fabric is one of the best in the world, not just sticking to big names, but trying out new artists that would really add a better musical angle to the club. While most clubs try and stick to big names that look good on tickets, the usual crowd at Fabric is always on its toes to see who the next best DJ/producer is.

Chelsea Lately: M2 Set to Reopen, Man Shot at Quo

It lives! M2 reports that the club with nine lives, M2, is “set to reopen” once again after having agreed to pay $7,500 to the Health Department for its smoking violations, but doesn’t say whether the club’s liquor license (suspended owing to fights and drug deals) has been reinstated. Meanwhile, another Chelsea club, Quo, has a nightmare on its hands — the Post reports that a Brooklyn man was shot in the torso (and hospitalized).

A Brooklyn man was shot early this morning inside a Manhattan club.

The 29-year-old victim, Theodore Merchant, of 270 Clarkson Ave., was shot in the torso inside Club Quo at 511 W. 28th St. at 3:42 a.m., police sources said. He’s in stable condition at Bellevue Hospital.

Cops have a 25-year-old Brooklyn man in custody but no charges have been filed.

There was no known motive for the shooting.

Manhattan club M2 Ultra Lounge must pay $7.5G in fines for indoor smoking violations; set to reopen

* Diddy celebrity hot spot M2 may turn out to be a not spot
*

The Manhattan club M2 Ultra Lounge is set reopen after striking a deal with the Health Department, which wanted to shutter it for flagrant indoor smoking violations.

The Chelsea hotspot must pay $7,500 in fines and submit a plan to the city detailing how it will stop patrons from lighting up.

It was one of several clubs busted in a Health Department undercover sting in January.

Undercover inspectors said they found dozens of smokers puffing away in plain sight and bathroom attendants selling loose cigarettes for $2 a pop.

"Our main goal was to get M2 to take their obligations under the law seriously, and we achieved that," Health Department spokeswoman Erin Brady said yesterday.

"After the case was brought, M2's enforcement of indoor smoking drastically changed. That was the real victory for us."

Richard Emery, lawyer for M2 Ultra Lounge, called the deal "a tolerable result based on exaggerated charges, only a couple of which had any merit whatsoever."

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