Jeremy J wrote:At the end of the day, I'm not saying it's not possible that things have changed drastically, but the extensive history of racism and sexism propagated by that place is just...icky.
Love ya, Jeremy, but I gotta say, that extensive history is more than just a little "icky." But what do I know? I'm just guy who thinks equating NAWBO (that's the National Association of Women Business Owners, for those of you scoring at home) or, say, the Girl Scouts to the awful evil that the Pendennis Club remains as a symbol of for many people in this city is pretty, well, lousy trolling.
And on that note, I'm outta here, but not without expecting some other white guys getting mad and trying to mansplain their way out of obliviousness to their own privilege. Ironic, since HotBytes seems mostly to consist, lately, of posts by angry, old, white guys willing to argue about any topic, no matter how inconsequential (pairing beer with spicy food -- ps. hey guys, if you're not Asian, then it's not YOUR cuisine, no matter how much you think paying for something makes you their boss) or, y'know, actually
important (ie. racism and sexism). I'll let you guys (ahem) try and figure out why the majority of posters here are, well, pretty much interchangeable in terms of that demographic. Maybe if some guys here were more accustomed to
listening and reading, and then positively responding, especially to people outside their milieu, I'd want to keep posting here. Between this thread, and the way Ken B. was treated on the beer pairing thread, though, I'm not sure I see the point.
When I worked in the food service industry, one of the most important, and crucial, pieces of what I found satisfying about it was the opportunity to
serve all people, people of all kinds, not just whomever I wanted. Yeah, sometimes I might complain about a table or three, but would
never have anything to do with what race or gender or sexual orientation of people were at that table. Louisville would be a lot better place if we found ways to relate to each other, to find our interests in common, instead of using food -- of all things! -- to keep dividing. The Pendennis Club doesn't have any interest now, nor has it ever, in treating all people the same, nor is it any way comparable to any other club that serves as a
safe space for those who frequent it. Only an insane person -- or perhaps an old white guy -- would think so.
Robin, I have to say that I have major respect for you and what you've tried to create with this forum. You've tried to create a community of thoughtful, respectful food and beverage fans. Unfortunately, I think that hasn't happened, though not without your trying. Sorry if I ruffled some feathers occasionally, but, until now, I'd rather do that than stand by. Now I'm not sure it's worth it. It's kind of a bummer to leave HotBytes to the interchangeable white dudes, but they're so busy arguing with themselves and others to even notice.