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Welcome to THEJNSREPORT’S: GYM Sports Bar: A Decade Retrospective Pt. 2
Press Play 😀 Continuing where we left off here’s part 2 of my interviews with the staff at GYM.
Jeremy:
Q: How long have you been an employee at GYM Sports Bar?
A: Two years!
Q: How did you come to work there?
A: I met Paul Green through a friend.
Q:What’s it like to work for Rick Schmutzler?
A: Working for Rick has been great. One of the best bosses that I’ve worked for.
Q: What difference if any do you see between GYM and it’s competitors?
A: It’s an actual Sportsbar where people watch sports. Also, other gay bars tend to rely on gimmicks to pull in a crowd.
Q: If you didn’t work there would you patronize GYM?
A: Absolutely
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve experienced at GYM?
A: Seeing Huck from Scandal down in the locker room.
Stevin B.C:
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Juan:
Q: How long have you worked at GYM Sports Bar?
A: Since day one… Worked security the day we opened…Worked my way up to bartender/manager
Q: What was it about the bar that drew you to work there?
Play rugby and had started bartending a couple of months earlier… The Stars were aligned…
Q: How did you become a bartender at Gym?
A: When I was hired all bartender slots had been filled already. One day two bartenders called in sick while I was at the door and we were slammed. A manager knew I knew how to bartend and threw me behind the bar! I covered the two shifts that day and the manager told the owner he needed to make me a bartender stat.
A: What’s a favorite moment you’ve had while working at Gym?
I’ve met some of the coolest people from all over the world and months later I’ve broken bread or have had a beer w them in places like Berlin, Melbourne, or Buenos Aires!
Q: What makes GYM different than most sportsbars?
A: It’s very easy going… You can come in and just be you. You can come and watch sports, watch boys, or listen to some pretty sick beats our DJs play…
Q: If you didn’t work at Gym would you patronize it?
A: Most definitely
Q: What’s it like to work for Rick Schmutzler?
A:When I was in college I never thought I’d be working for a “gay business” or a gay employer. It’s kind of kick ass!!
Q: Where do you see Gym 10 years from now?
A: I see us all over the U.S. !!!
Kieran:
Q: How long have you worked at GYM Sports Bar and why have you stayed an employee?
A: I have been working at GYM Sportsbar for over 9 years now. I have stayed for so long because it is a great place to work at. Everyone involved in the company from the top down to the bottom are great to be around and great to work with. A lot of staff call us a family and I guess we are the GYM Bar family. Some staff even refer to one of our owners as Mama.
Q: How did you come to work there?
A: I moved to New York from Australia to play Rugby and needed work. A couple of guys from my rugby team work at the bar, so they got me a job as a doorman when I first moved here.
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve had while working there?
A: I really enjoy our staff parties because we very rarely get to all hang out together because of our line of work (working nights). The parties are always a lot of fun. We have some great moments at the bar while working. One of my favorite moments was when Barack Obama won his first election.
The euphoria that swept through the bar was immense. It was an amazing moment. There have also been some good sporting moments. I was not at the bar when the Giants won their 2 recent SuperBowls, but I was there when they beat Brett Favre and the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship in 2008. As a huge Giants fan, that was pretty special. The anniversary parties are also a lot of fun.
We have a great base of regualr customers who have been coming to the bar for years, some since we first opened our doors. The anniversary parties are a good chance to see these customers, show them our appreciation and take a look back and remember the great times we’ve had.eded work. A couple of guys from my rugby team work at the bar, so they got me a job as a doorman when I first moved to here.
Q: How does GYM compare to other sportsbars you’ve encountered?
A: I go to a lot of Sports Bars, but GYM is very unique. The majority of the staff are very familiar with sports and can have a conversation about them. We have a great friendly relationship with a lot of our regular customers who are huge sports fans and even hand out with them to watch their teams play and sometimes go to games with them.
I have also noticed that the majority of staff including managers and owners have played a lot of sports and were actually quite good. We have guys who have worked and currently work at the bar that have played Division 1 College Basketball, Minor League Baseball, High School Football, Rugby and a variety of other sports. I bet that if we had some form of athletic competition against any other bar in the city, gay or straight, we would win. We have some very good athletes on our staff.
Combine our knowledge of sports and the fact that we have athletes on our staff with the relationship that we have with our customer base and you can see that GYM Sportsbar is very unique. I don’t think you could find another place like it.
Q: What’s it like to work for the owners of GYM Sports Bar?
A: Like I said earlier, everyone from the top down to the bottom are great to work with. The owners are very good at selecting staff and really trust their staff to do their job. They don’t micro manage and allow us to be ourselves. The atmosphere they have created is something I have never seen at any place I have worked.
Everyone understands that we are a team and we work hard to ensure the success of the business because if the business succeeds, we all succeed. It is a testament to the owners and management that over half of our staff have been working at the bar for over 5 years. I think there is about 5 or 6 guys that have been working here since we first opened. That alone tells you it is a great place to work at.
Q: How has GYM changed from your first year there to it’s 10th year?
A: The bar is run in a much more efficient and effective manner, but I guess that goes with experience. I have noticed that we have a lot more people watching the games now that in previous years.
Q: Where do you see GYM in the next 10 years?
A: I see GYM being just as successful in 10 years as it is now. The neighborhood has been going through some changes in recent years, but the bar is just as successful as ever. The owners and managers understand a winning formula and have stuck to it, making tweaks when necessary. With the owners, staff and loyal customers we have, I see the bar remaining an icon in Chelsea for many years to come.
Serge:
Q: How long have you been an employee at GYM Sports Bar?
A: It will be 2 years this coming November
Q: How did you come to work there?
A: I met Juan and he told me that there was an opening and I applied
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve had while working there?
A: The Soccer Game between Belgium and USA during the World Cup. I was the only Belgian in the place and even though we beat the shit out of the Americans all the customers remained very friendly and congratulated me. My second favorite moment is when Rick offered me the Bartending shift on Saturday in The Locker Room. I felt extremely lucky to have my own bar in Chelsea Manhattan!!!
Q: Do you have a favorite drink or shot you like to make?
A: I love making shots, mixing different alcohols and recreating flavors. My favorites are the citrus flavors, peach, coconut, & Baileys.
Q: What makes GYM different than any other bar you’ve been to?
A: The atmosphere is extremely friendly. The strong core of regulars makes it a very nice and enjoyable place to work in.
Q: Where do you see GYM in the next 10 years?
A: I would love to open my own GYM Bar. After GYM Bar NYC, LA, and Fort Lauderdale, why not GYM Bar SF or Chicago or Palm Springs?
Vince:
It’s hard for me to remember. I believe I started 7 years ago. I left for 2 and a half years but then I came back again. I stayed as an employee for so long because the money was great. The crew is so much fun. Actually my first couple of years the employees were really close friends. We became sort of a family.
My close friend Paul was working there. At the time I was working for blue water grill in Union square and I hated working there. Gym bar needed a seasonal coat check person and Paul recommended me.
There are so many memories. Some of the customers (not the regulars) have been quite comical. Having to kick people out who were a problem was something I’d never thought I would have to do. But most of all my favorite memory is the trip to the Pocono’s. The Management wanted to thank us all for our hard work through out the holiday season. So they rented a house in the Pocono’s and drove us all there for two days of fun.
To be honest I haven’t had to much experience with other sports bars. I actually wasn’t a sports fan before I started working for Gym Bar.
They are an awesome group of guys. They welcomed me back when I left for a couple years for another job. It was like coming home.
I used to come to the bar before I started working there. I had made friends with the staff. I think I would.
I think the biggest change would be the staff. The bar doesn’t see a big turn around in staff. Most of us stay for such a long period of time because we are having such a good time. Also, our beer selection has almost doubled as well as our liquor selection. Plus we have twice as many televisions as we had when we started. Also, when I started there, the locker room hadn’t opened.
I honestly see it going just as strong as ever. Our regulars are super loyal. Through the years other gay sports bars have tried to compete. We always have to worry when something new comes in. But as always the regulars stick around and the costumers come back knowing that the drink prices/specials are the best and the staff is super friendly. GYM bar has a tendency to hire some awesome personalities in the staff. There is something for everyone at this bar. |
Kyle:
I started working in February, I’ve stayed on due to the great employees and environment that GYM bar fosters.
I had become friends with a few of the employees before I started, and when the opportunity came up to work with them, I took advantage of it.
My favorite moment would be the crowd on saint Patrick’s day.
It is similar to others in drawing in the different groups of sports fans, but unique in drawing in everyone else- sports fans, athletes, non athletes: everyone is welcome.
They are great leaders who care so much about bettering the lgbt community. They do an amazing job at creating a welcoming environment for all groups of people at the bar. I’m still in my first year- but the expansion they have had and business success is due to the inclusive environment they create.
Expanding! More locations across the country, and getting more involved in the sports community for LGBT athletes and allies. |
Steve B:
Q: how long have you worked at GYM Sports Bar?
A: I have worked at GYM bar for 5 1/2 yrs now.
Q: How did you come to work at GYM?
A: I wouldn’t consider myself a regular customer before I started working there, but I would occasionally stop in for a drink to watch the game and Collin was my bartender. When I got laid off from DHL in 2009, Collin knew I was out of work, and I happened to be in the right place at the right time when someone just got fired and Collin asked me if I was still looking for a job, and well the rest is history.
Q: Do you have any memorable customer moments that stick with you since you’ve been there?
A: Well working security and sitting at the door all night, my job is tor pretty much just watch everybody and observe behavior for the most part, and of course I’m kinda like the “police”. I’m the one who has to ask people to leave when necessary. I do remember one night when I had to ask someone to leave, and they wouldn’t leave, the regulars that were there one night were noticing my attempt to get this guy out and he wouldn’t leave and was kinda challenging me to get physical.
Literally I had 3 customers backing me up and telling thsi guy “get out” or you are gonna have to deal with all of us and not just me. When that happened I knew that I had an extended family.
Q: What’s a favorite or special moment or two you’ve had at GYM?
A: I think my 2 favorite moments were actually outside the bar but I was with staff. One was when Rick took us all to Fire Island for a few days, we kinda bonded. It was Rick, myself, Collin, and Juan and we made a trip thru the “Meat Rack” on our way to
Cherry Grove and we all got hammered, and when it was time to head back to the house in the Pines, there were no water taxi cabs that late so we had to walk the beach all the way back in pitch dark. A few of us, ( I won’t mention names) cut thru someone’s million dollar home in the middle of the night, which is kinda trespassing but whatever, it was dark and we couldn’t see. When we got back to the house at like 4am we started grilling burgers…that was kinda cool.
Q: What do you like most about working at GYM?
A: I think GYM Bar is like a family. Seems like it’s always the same customers int he same spot on the same day, and wherever you turn there is a familiar face, which kinda makes you feel comfortable. It’s sorta like the gay community’s “home base”. It’s also a very accepting bar to all shapes and sizes and of course personalities.
Q: What’s it like working for Rick Schmutzler?
A: To me Rick is the best boss I’ve had. He cares a lot about his business and wants it to scuceed of course, but Rick is also a people person. I’ve talked to him on a few accounts about my personal life and he always has good advice for me, not only as my boss but I think Rick considers us more than just employees, we are family…he is like our “daddy” or “mama”.
Q: What’s the biggest difference you notice between GYM and other bars you’ve been to?
A: I don’t go much to other gay bars, but as a native NYer, I’ve been to most bars and clubs, and GYM bar like I mentioned is the non Chelsea bar in Chelsea. There is no pretense, nor judgement about the place. You can walk in by yourself and feel comfortable assuming you will know someone there. Lots of gay bars in NYC don’t present themselves like that.
Q: Where do you see GYM in the next 10 years?
A: Hopefully at 167 8th Ave with the same friendly staff.
Cayle, Serge, Jose, Gregory, Eric H (Gym Sports Bar Staff)
Cayle:
Q: How long have you been at GYMSPORTSBAR?
A: I’ve been with the bar since January 2011. So 4 years.
Q: How did you come to work there?
A: Back in the day, I had a friend who worked at the bar. He’d always talk to me about how incredible his co-workers were and how active and rewarding the experience was. So I was always wickedly envious of him. In my job search after college, I decided to give them my resume and promised myself the gig would be mine. Unfortunately, I never heard back from them. So I ended up settling for a typical terrible New York job that vampired away at my tender soul every day for the next 5 months. Then one morning I discovered an old voice message I’d missed. It turns out the bar had called a while back asking me to come in for an interview. Luckily I wasn’t too late, and I started working there the next week.
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve had while working there?
A: I don’t know about any moments specifically, but one of my favorite components of the job has always been the “people-watching”. I suppose part of the point of a bar is to be able to look around. The difference is, I get paid to do it! And I’ve had my mind blown; people are fascinating! My favorite takeaway? No matter who you are, you are someone’s type, so rest easy and come as you are.
Q: Do you have a favorite drink or shot?
A: I sure get a kick out of a red-wine spritzer.
Q: What difference if any do you notice between GYM and it’s competition?
A: GYMSPORTSBAR is literally the only bar I’ve been at in the past 2 years, so I can’t speak in contrast to anywhere else. But GYM has always been about creating a welcoming, warm-hearted atmosphere that I think originates in the genuinely friendly attitudes of the staff and regular patrons, who in turn pass it onto their friends and everyone else who joins us for a drink. Of course there’s a strong sports presence, and it definitely attracts fans and athletes alike. But even that is merely the backbone to a broader diversity of fun characters all looking for a cool place to hang out. It’s intimate, there’s no pretense, and I think everyone notices the good company that thrives here.
Q: What’s it like to work for Rick Schmutzler?
A: Rick is great. The staff here is a family, and Rick is definitely at the head of it. We get our deserved share of tough-love, but there’s so much mutual respect and appreciation, I think it motivates us all to work so well as team. We really do care about the work we do together.
Q: Where do you see GYM in 10 yrs?
A: Hopefully still right here on 8th Avenue & 18th Street in Chelsea.
Jose:
Q: How long have you been an employee at GYM Sports bar?
A: Going on 4 years this summer
Q: How did you come to work there and why have you stayed a member of the staff?
A: Some of my rugby teammates have worked at Gym Sports Bar since it opened and one of them brought me on board when I was looking for some weekend work.
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve had while working there?
A: It’s fun and awesome during the big sports events when the crowd in the bar is completely engaged by whichever big game is on. Last year during the FIFA World Cup during the USA v. Portugal game, the crowd was completely electrified and the place erupted after goals by Jermaine Jones and Clint Dempsey. Bummer the game ended in a tie.
And more recently during some of the big March Madness games, the crowds have been great. And yes, that includes the pro-Notre Dame crowd during the Notre Dame v Kentucky game. I’m no Kentucky fan and I would have normally cheered for the underdog but I sure as hell wasn’t about to start cheering for the Fighting Irish LOL
Q: What’s it like to work for Rick Schmutzler?
A: Ugh, that guy is the worst!!!! Thinks he can sing, too.
Seriously though, Rick’s a great boss. And a damn funny one, too. He’s our Mrs. Garrett
Q: What’s the biggest difference you notice about GYM that separates it from it’s competitors?
IMO, Gym Bar’s big appeal is that, even as a sports bar, you can’t put a label (as we tend to do in the gay community) on its clientele. Yes, you can come in, grab a drink and catch a game. You can also drop by, have one of the friendly bartenders make your a drink and just chill. Or you can just come in and get a coke, if you’re thirsty.
Ty:
Q: How long have you worked at GYM Sports Bar?
A: Off and on, for 10 years. I worked security opening night.
Q: How did you come to work there?
A: I reconnected with Rick in New York after knowing him for years in Chicago during the planning stages of GYM. To me, it was the perfect opportunity to meet people who shared my interest in sports.
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve had there?
A: There’s so many to choose from! I would have to say opening night. The energy was great!
Q: What’s it like to work for Rick Schmutzler?
A: Rick is a great boss! He’s fair, compassionate, and isn’t afraid to jump in and help when and wherever it’s needed.
Q: What’s your favorite sport?
A: I like football, baseball, and volleyball, but basketball is definitely my favorite.
Q: What’s different about GYM that separates it from its competitors?
A: I think that 2 things separate GYM from other bars. First, its the patrons. There’s people of all ages and walks of life that have liked coming here for 10 years. And secondly, the staff is full of great people who care about customer service.
Q: Where do you see GYM in the next 10 years?
A: In 10 years, I think GYM will still be going strong, leaving its mark as a great supporter of the LGBT community. I’m happy to say that I had a small part in that.
Eric Courage:
Q: How long have you been at GYM Sports Bar?
A: I was hired a month prior to opening to help with the front of house install. So over 10 years now
Q: How did you come to work at GYM Sports Bar and what keeps you there?
A: I had just moved to NYC from San Diego where I had been managing a long running bar for 14 years (that I opened with as well ) Rich’s nightclub. When I moved here I took a job at splash NYC were I met a good friend of the guy’s opening GYM Bar and suggested I meet them. We clicked and the rest is history lol
Q: What’s a favorite or special moment or two you’ve had at GYM?
A: There’s been so many moments really, I remember opening night and it being one of those crazy magical nights were right then I knew we had a success ! The smiles I get everytime a regular or even a out of town guest gives me after spending a few hours with us. Halloween is always a blast And of course the staff, we’re a family.
Q: Do you have a favorite drink or specialty shot that you love to make?
A: I’m kinda known for my margarita. Strong and tasty.
Q: What’s the biggest difference between GYM and other bars you’ve worked at and/or its competitors?
A: Truly an all welcoming environment A complete cross section of diversity that is sadly missing in most bars. Also we really are a true sports bar.
Q: Where do you see GYM in the next 10 years?
A: Right where it is…not going anywhere 😄. Maybe a few more scattered across the globe. Lol
Q: Where do you see RockBar in the next 10 years?
London Tokyo Paris and Moscow ( after vladimar Putin is gone) world domination xxx
Thanks to all of the GYM Sports Bar Staff for sharing their experiences and giving us this opportunity to get a glimpse at the special people that help make up and embody this iconic Sports bar. Shout out to GYM Sports Bar.
This has been GYM Sports Bar: A Decade Retrospective Pt. 2 by THEJNSREPORT.
All images are the property of http://www.thejnsreport.com (c) 2015.
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Welcome to THEJNSREPORT’S: GYMSPORTSBAR: A DECADE RETROSPECTIVE Pt. 1 Press Play 😀
Recently, while having a conversation with a friend about NYC night life and in particular bars and sports bars, the topic of NYC’s first gay sports bar GYM Sports bar came up.
Located at 167 8th Ave between 18th and 19th Streets in Chelsea. GYM Sports Bar was founded by owner Rick Schmutzler,
Nick Leonard, and several other investors. (Rick pictured above)
Matt: (Pictured above, Investor, Mentor, Business Partner)
The idea behind the bar was to offer NYC something that it didn’t have and open up a brand new untapped, and under appreciated market…the gay sports fan.
Growing up in the city I remember hearing people say gays/ queers, etc don’t do sports. However, what many people fail to realize is that a large segment of the LGBT community are very much interested in sports for many reasons and NOT just the obvious “checking out the hot athletic bodies” performing at the professional level of a particular sport.
GYM Sports Bar aimed to change the game in a lot of ways as a pioneer in the night life business in several critical ways. Firstly, GYM’s owners wanted to hire a diverse staff to reflect the diversity of the greatest city in the world in which it operates.
Secondly, offer a sports bar experience where the LGBT community could come together watch sports, decompress, and enjoy the sports bar experience without fear of being attacked for being openly who they are.
Thirdly, everyone is welcome at GYM regardless of gender,background and/or sexual orientation.
The following are my interviews with several staff members at GYM Sports bar on commemorating its 10th anniversary starting with GYM’s resident DJ, DJ Smokey.
DJ Smokey:
Q: So Smokey how long have you been a DJ?
A: I’m self taught. While learning guitar as a kid, I would buy records and sheet music to learn. Seeing my collection was growing I started honing my DJ skills in my room as a teen in St. Louis.
Back then, it was vinyl exclusively. With real drummers keeping their own time (as in disco or rock for example) beat mixing could be challenging. With today’s software that actually syncs and locks the beat for you, it’s pretty easy for a lot of “DJ’s”.
My 1st DJ gig was filling In for my friend, RIP, Steven Russo at a Lesbian Disco named GENESIS II. It was a great time and a great place to be.
Q: How did you come up with the name DJ Smokey?
A: The nick name “Smokey” was given to me by my dad. As a kid I loved Smokey the bear.
Q: How did you come to spin at GYM Sports Bar and how long have you been spinning at GYM?
A: I knew Rick from a previous establishment we’d worked at together.
He approached me about his opening a Gay sports bar and asked me if I’d like to be on board.
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve had while working there?
A: There have been several but grand opening night stands out.
It was a Friday. I had DJ’d the happy hour at a then popular bar in the neighborhood and was heading over to GYM for the opening. Quite a sight it was to see a line of people winding around the block waiting for entry. Inside, the atmosphere and energy was on another level! It was a very exciting night for us all!
Q: What do you like about spinning at GYM Sports Bar?
A: I have a true love for a very wide range of music. I enjoy doing a sets of certain genres. Often I’ll have someone come up and say “I haven’t heard this in years! You are Taking me back!”
Sometimes, someone will ask what a song is or who a group are and then check it/them out. To sum it up, I guess it’s my love of providing a musical ride.
Q: What do you like least about spinning at GYM Sports Bar?
Most of the people that come up to me say ‘Hi’ and or give a smile and compliment. That’s greatly appreciated! There are some who don’t get it and feel I’m obligated to play the same 3 songs you hear on radio. Songs that are played MANY times a day to brainwash you into believing they ARE good.… til the next 3 songs come along.…
Q: If you didn’t work there would you patronize GYM Sports Bar?
A:Absolutely! GYM is a great environment to chill and have a drink or few, either with a couple of friends or alone.
Q: What difference if any do you see in GYM vs other locations you’ve worked at?
A: GYM has a great management and staff! We all interact with and engage our customers. Some of us have struck up nice longstanding friendships. For me, personally, we’re kind of like a family. When I come in, I’m happy to see them all! Whether it’s going to concerts, Six Flags, The Poconos or just out to eat, we’ve often spend time together outside of the bar.
Q: Where do you see GYM Sports Bar in the next 10 years?
A: Having great staff from ownership down is key to longevity. Given that fact, I believe GYM will be around for many years to come!
Collin: Q: How long have you worked at GYM Sports bar?
A: I’ve worked at GYM Sportsbar since day 1. It’s been a fun and eventful ride.
Q: What drew you to work at GYM and why have you stayed an employee?
A: I was referred to the owners by a friend I had met while working at other bars throughout the city. Not being an avid athlete I was a bit nervous about where/how I’d fit into the great scheme of things. But over the past 10 years we’ve cultivated a family and a good business, that in itself is incentive enough to keep going.
Q: As a minority employee what’s it been like to be one of the first if not the first black bartender working in the nightlife scene especially at GYM Sports Bar?
A: When I first started bartending working in nightlife in NYC, with the exception of Latinos, there were few minorities represented as bartenders across the board and virturally none at Gay bars. I remember being told I wasn’t the right “fit” for some of the bars I’d apply to (while noticing that the staff were all pretty caucasian boys). Fifteen years later – there’s a nice healthy mix of everyone because the gay “stereotype” of what customers want/prefer has been leveled.
Q: How does year 1 compare to year 10 in your mind?
A: We’ve gotten into a good groove. I’ve made a lot of great friends that just started out as regulars.
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve had while working there?
A: The night President Obama was elected and the day NYC achieved Marriage Equality were two of the most exciting, fun and electric moments I can ever remember at the bar. Madonna’s halftime show at the SuperBowl was also like 10 Gay Christmases rolled into one.
Q: Do you have a favorite drink or shot you like to make for your regulars?
A: I pride myself on making an amazing Manhattan.
Q: What’s it like on the busiest day of the week at GYM?
A: The kind of day where you need a massage and a chiropractic adjustment the following day.
Q: What’s it like to work for owner Rick Schmutzler?
A: Rick is generous, fair and trusts the judgement of his employees which makes it feel more like family and less like “The JOB”.
Q: What’s the difference if any that you see between GYM and its competitors?
A: We’re different, everyone’s welcome, there is no “type”.
Q: Where do you see GYM in the next 10 years?
A: Still thriving and adjusting to the times with even more new faces and fans.
Jerry:
Q: How long have you worked at GYM Sportsbar?
A: 10 years
Q: What drew you to work at GYM Sportsbar and why have you stayed an employee?
A: I’ve always enjoyed bartending – it’s a fun job. At the time GYM was in building phase, my rugby teammates were looking for a “home bar” – a place to have drink ups after matches. My teammates knew I was looking for a bartending job, so they asked about hiring. I went in for an interview, and I’ve been here ever since. I’ve stayed this long for a number of reasons: Great bosses, great coworkers, great customers.
Q: How does year 1 compare to year 10 in your mind?
A: It’s still the same fun. GYM Sports Bar was a knockout right from the first bell. It’s round 10 and we are still going strong.
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve had while working there?
A: There are too many. When home teams win the championship – like the Yankees winning the World Series, or the Giants winning the Superbowl. Watching the Olympics. Holiday parties, Staff outings. Staff outings may be the best because they are the the rare times we all get to be together and let loose.
Q: Do you have a favorite drink or shot you like to make for your regulars?
A: It’s hard to pick a favorite. I love “mixology” and surprising people with great drinks.
Q: What’s it like on the busiest day of the week at GYM?
A: Hectic, energized, a little crazy, and fun.
Q: What’s it like to work for owner Rick Schmutzler?
A: Maybe the best boss I’ve ever worked for. He knows what he’s doing and he cares about his employees.
Q: What difference if any do you see between GYM and it’s competitors?
A: The staff, for sure. Some of the nicest guys in the business. And everyone gets along.
Q: If you didn’t work at GYM would you patronize it?
A: Absolutely.
Q: Where do you see GYM in the next 10 years?
Still going strong.
Eric H:
Q: You were one of the first employees hired at GYM Sports Bar. What was it like to also one of the first black bartenders in the night life scene at GYM?
A: Before I started working at gym bar, I applied at many other bars in Chelsea and unfortunately no one ever hired me. I also noticed while applying for work that no one in any of these bars looked like me. I am happy to say that once Gym bar opened here in Chelsea they made the wise decision to hire not just the cookie cutter version of a bartender, but rather hired people that look different and represent the diversity of the city and the scene.
Q: What was it like the first year the bar opened and how does it compare to it’s 10th year?
A: Well, when we opened we were a new bar, and we were just getting to know the customers, and get familiar with the neighborhood. Now we have cemented ourselves here, and have a heavy flow of regulars that come to see us everyday. I enjoy meeting new customers and trying to turn them into future regulars.
Q: Do you have a favorite drink/shot that you like to make for your regulars?
A: My favorite drink that I like to make is a Jolly Rancher. I’m not giving you the recipe as I add my own variation to it but trust…it’s good.
Q: What’s your favorite Holiday to work?
A: My favorite holiday at GYM Bar to work is Pride, because there is nothing in the world like Gay Pride in NYC. I meet so many different people from all walks of life, and I can recall every single Pride I ever worked.
Q: How did you come to work at GYM and what drew you there?
A: I actually was walking down the street maybe a week after the bar opened up. I noticed the outside smoking area of the bar and thought it really stood out especially on 8th Ave. I decided to go in and see if they were hiring. Eric Courage took my resume, and a couple of months later I received a call from Rick and Nick. The rest is history I guess.
Q: Where do you see GYM Sports Bar in the next 10 years?
A: I see GYM Bar flourishing and still serving great drinks and a good time to anyone that walks through these doors in ten years.
Will:
Q: How long have you worked at GYM Sports bar?
A: I’ve worked at GYM for 3 years.
Q: How did you come to work there?
A: I quit my day job to pursue my music career full time. I was working at GYM part time and just covering shifts. Next thing I know I’m full time and part of the family.
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve had there?
A: I really enjoy holiday season at GYM. Last year, I realized I wasn’t going home for the holidays and I was a little sad. I came into work Christmas Eve for my shift, it was busy. We had a good time and I reall got to bond with my bar mates Collin, Serge, and Jeremy.
Q: What’s it like to work for Rick Schmutzler?
A: Rick is a Motha!!!
Q: If you didn’t work there would you patronize GYM?
A: Yes! I was a regular before I was an employee.
Q: What difference do you see if any that separates GYM from other sports bars?
A: GYM combines the idea of a “butch” sports bar with the drinking faggotry of a “typical” gay bar. GYM is like a frat house, we and a few regulars are the fraternity and we throw the best parties on campus!
Q: Where do you see GYM in the next 10 years?
A: Expansion expansion expansion!
Rizzo:
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Steve D:
Q: How long have you been an employee at GYM and why have you stayed an employee?
A: It’s been 8 years. I stay because it’s a fun environment with great coworkers and bosses who get people and treat their employees with respect while giving us the freedom to use common sense and good judgement. Also because long before Obamacare became a law GYM offered health benefits to us staff. I’d never heard of that in a bar before. To me it really shows how much the owners care about us their employees.
Q: How did you come to work at GYM?
A: I had relocated back to NYC after living (briefly) down south in Virginia. I decided my time was up there and returned home to my home city. I started to come to GYM shortly after moving back as I was told it would be opening at least a year before it actually did. I met Rick through Nick and was offered a shift covering the door one day. From that shift, I ended up covering part time more and more and before I knew it I was working there pretty much full time.
Q: What’s different about GYM 8 years later and what’s stayed the same?
A: Well when I first started GYM still had tube TV’s no flat screens lol. Also, the crowd was predominantly a younger crowd that didn’t watch the sports on so much as they watched the guys watching the sports on TV.
Since then the crowd has shifted to a more mature crowd with a mix of younger guys and gals and everything else in between. Our patrons are avid sports fans who love the environment at GYM which isn’t pretentious, but rather friendly, accommodating, and a cool spot to drink and unwind while getting an excellent value for your money. We do have our moments when customers come in wearing outfits that really give everyone a show.
Also, there was no Locker Room lower level bar years ago either. And while I heard many jokes from only a handful of visitors about how it smelled like a “locker room” I thought it prudent to point out it was usually some of those same visitors making the smell they commented about not the bar itself lol. Two words guys “air freshner” LMAO.
Q: What’s a favorite moment or two you’ve had while working at GYM?
A: There are quite a few actually but as far as non sports related moments go, the shooting of a Law & Order SVU episode at the bar was epic and awesome! But the 2nd SuperBowl win for the NY Giants over the Patriots has to be near the top of the list!
That was an electric Sunday that gave me chills and extreme satisfaction to let Patriots fans have it over and over again. I’d often say after that epic win…”How do you spell Elite? Oh that’s right you can’t spell it without E. L. I. Lmao!”
Another was in 2009 when my Yankees won the World Series yet again. Oh and I have to mention meeting several well known actors and athletes there during weekend afternoons and nights as unexpected guests to the bar.
Lastly, a moment that really stood out to me as a favorite moment, was when a new regular came up to me and told me why he enjoyed coming to GYM Sports Bar instead of a competitor bar due to the fact that he gets treated with respect and served in a timely fashion at GYM by friendly bartenders. He went on to state that at the other place the bartenders were disinterested guys with chiseled bodies mostly “straight” that thought they should be tipped because they had their shirts off while pouring expensive and weak drinks.
Q: Where do you see GYM in the next decade?
A: Probably as the nations largest chain of Gay Sports Bars.
Stay tuned for Pt. 2…
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Welcome to THEJNSREPORT’S: A Winter Day Photo Walk…Reflections
I started out the day running a few errands before taking to midtown for some shots of St. Patrick’s Cathedral then heading to the 2nd part of my targeted photo walk down at Ground Zero. The following are images from my day trek. Enjoy.
This time Elmo kept his distance. I didn’t forget you son, you tried to trip me not once but twice last time we crossed paths. Anywho, moving right along…after a relatively short subway ride, destination two was in the distance as I made my way through Tribeca.
From here I turned my attention to the footprints of the original Twin Towers now called Pools of Reflection.
I got chills actually seeing these up close for the first time today. I hadn’t looked at them except for on TV before today. Seeing them up close with the names etched in stone of all the victims of 9/11 was a surreal moment.
After observing the pools of reflection and the scene that was so different 14 years ago I took one last look back at 1 World Trade and concluded the day’s photo walk. Hope you enjoyed it. All images are the property of http://www.thejnsreport.com (c) 2015.
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Here’s to wishing everyone a Happy Post Valentines Day!!!
Thanks everyone for all of the feedback and sharing respective viewpoints on last week’s post on Keeping or Ditching NYC’s Horse & Carriage Industry. I certainly learned a lot that I hadn’t known before with regards to horses and the industry.
Image is property of http://www.thejnsreport.com (c) 2015.
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Welcome to THEJNSREPORT’S: Atlas Front & Center
Press Play 🙂
Coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy and takes time to move past. I took this shot last week as an inspiration for when you feel like the world is on your shoulders.
Image is property of http://www.thejnsreport.com (c) 2015.
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This post is dedicated to my love and his mother who passed away early in the morning on New Years day this year.
Mothers are everything to their children. This is especially true for sons whom Mother is our whole world. Mother is who brought us into this world, who carried us inside her womb for nine months, who loved us unconditionally, who nurtured our growth from a little boy all the way through to manhood.
The pain of this particular loss is something having witnessed through my loves eyes first hand, I know while it is inevitable, it’s not something you can prepare for, or ever want to come to fruition.
Our hearts are heavy and we grieve your loss. R.I.P beautiful Lady, Madre, Hermana, Abuela, Tia, Queen Sra. Manuela Clementina Pilozo Rengifo.
Know that the legacy you’ve left behind is a great and everlasting one. We all miss you terribly and only take comfort in knowing that you are with God, that you are happy, and that you are at peace. We look forward to seeing you again one day in Heaven. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and the entire family.
Juan Gabriel’s Amor Eterno 🙂All images are copyright property of http://www.thejnsreport.com (c) 2015
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