John Shockey said he plans to keep Truman’s Nightclub open through June 16, then close it down. But, he's also considering re-opening the club in another location, possibly South Bend.
Shockey started the gay nightclub 21 years ago here in the 100 Center complex.
Meanwhile, a local group is still active in its efforts to “Save Truman’s”, as their campaign is called, because they see the club as an “important rallying point” for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community.
Lately the group has been trying to boost events and business at the club, said one of the organizers, Jed Walls, adding, “We are exploring as many options as we can to help out the venue.”
Find a link to their Facebook page at www.savetrumans.com.
Their auction on March 30 and other fundraisers have pulled in more than $8,000 so far, Shockey said. But he said he still has more than $30,000 in debts, plus a hefty overhead to operate in the large, historic building.
He said he picked the closing date because June 21 is the deadline to renew his liquor license, which he can’t afford to do. He plans to auction off the nightclub’s possessions to pay off debts and, he hopes, to start over.
Staff writer Joseph Dits:
jdits@sbtinfo.com
574-235-6158
