L.A. Nightlife Denizens Give Thanks

Nightlife people are people too. Even though it seems like they subsist on fairy dust and alcoholic beverages and only come out when there's a spotlight, they're people just like you and me. They eat turkey (well, Nic Adler only eats tofurkey), and have families and stuff. We surveyed a few of Los Angeles's performers, club owners, DJs, promoters, and tranny hookers, to see what they are thankful for.

Jackie Beat, drag performer extraordinaire: "I am really thankful to be an American in 2009. That does not mean that I am ignorant of the fact that this country is flawed, it simply means that I appreciate being free to make all my dreams come true. People still come here from all over the world in search of The American Dream. I feel fortunate to have been born here and raised with an attitude that anything is possible through hard work. Ultimately, this Thanksgiving, I am thankful that all my problems are essentially luxury problems."

Bryan Rabin, nightlife impresario. “I am very thankful and grateful to live in Los Angeles. We have the most amazing weather in the country, astounding natural beauty and burning haute fun. However, I am most grateful for my health and the most fabulous friends in the world.”

Mark Kozak, GM Asia de Cuba. “I am thankful for ‘Glee,’ and Asia de Cuba’s “Cuban Opera.” Both are sweet tasting, revolve around music and leave a very satiated feeling each time I experience either or both.”

Kendra Cole, GM SKYBAR. “I am thankful for all of the amazing friends that I’ve met throughout my 10 years at Skybar! Not only do they always support me, but have helped give Skybar it’s iconic place in the LA nightlife.”

Nic Adler, owner of the Roxy Theatre. “I am thankful for #1 my wife, my dogs, my big family, and for all amazing women I work with everyday, plus my best friend Ryan. And anyone who buys a Mike Posner ticket for NYE :D.”

Tony Daly, COO/Partner MyHouse. I am thankful for six liter bottles of high-end champagne and the customers that buy them.

Ryan Heffington, Sweaty Sundays choreographer. “I’m incredibly thankful for my homies—my L.A. family. It’s a glowing light that is continuously multiplying creative positive energy. I’m thankful for my Sweaty Sundays family as well for the support and the drive to be better humans through dance. I’m thankful for Los Angeles.”

Justin Wyborn, GM, Nobu West Hollywood. “Besides for my health, family and love.... I’m thankful that a Japanese restaurant is not a destination for Thanksgiving.”

Jer Ber Jones, performer. “When the Christians started to eradicate the 90% of the Native American Indians, the first to be slaughtered were the “Berdache” (the gay “two spirit” members of the tribes, whom were always seen natural, and usually wise & magical members of the tribe.) Even though the USA still holds major reservations, and intolerance towards my natural being, and sexuality, I am truly grateful that I am able to roam this world and share my magic and art with more acceptance and understanding.I am also truly grateful that Marijuana has become more accepted. Especially in this toxic, chemically seduced planet. Dear Lord, Thank you for making me a Tranimal.”

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