The Closing of Shortys?
Teresa was out of town for the weekend. She was visiting family in Boston. I spent the majority of Friday and Saturday working. Late Saturday afternoon, I walked down to Federal Hill Park for a break. I sat facing the Harbour and made a couple phone calls. I was able to catch up with Herczeg. I also spoke with Pete. He helped me line up the impending Saturday night -- Shortys Closing Party. The event was billed as the last night at Shortys in Highlandtown. (or is it Brewers Hill?). Charles Feelgood (owner) was going to close the six year run of the infamously fun spot. In order to get the night started, we congregated at Scott and Joannes for BBQ and Skippys. It was great see Pete, Heidi, Scott, Joanne and John. I got to hear about their budding DJ group Neighborhood Watch. They seem to be booking more and more gigs. I need to get a hold of a few CDs to checkout the new sound. Shortly after 9pm, we drove over to Shortys. The row home based corner bar was pretty packed. I was happy with the crowd because; I was expecting more people. A large group is fun, but this place is only about fourteen feet wide. Plus, they can't more the pool table in the back room. Apparently it is bolted to the floor. We use to be able to more the pool table for a larger dance floor. I was treated to some funky drinks like a Matador. This original Shortys drink is Redbull based and tasty. I'll miss their extensive menu. Its one of the only places I'll grab and actual drink. We acquired a stack of quarters and started to play pool. Eventually, Aaron stopped by the bar. Earlier in the evening, we had been reminiscing of the Shortys first anniversary. We had been able to attach balloons to Aaron's feet. He didn't notice for what felt like hours. Great memories. The house music was already blaring, but the music didn't get people dancing right away. We were able to get in a few games of pool. A tag team group came on and really impressed. I didn't catch their name, but one of the DJs was wearing a Real Madrid Zidane tshirt. I had to acknowledge this by saying, "Nice work Zizu." Feelgood didn't take the decks until real late. I expect a longer more energetic set. He had been mingling the entire night. You can't miss him because; he is so tall. No matter, he delighted with a short set. The rumor was, this wasn't the last evening as billed. We shall see what is the actual fate of this great little spot. I walked back to Scott and Joannes with the two of them. Pete and Heidi walked back toward her place. The evening was over, but well worth the drive across town. I was happy to be a little part of Baltimore history. I hope for all it's fans, Shortys does remain open. If indeed this was the last evening, it was special. I think the crowd and the music mixed very well. I can't imagine someone not having fun.
