I met the band Pink Martini some time around 2007, at Carnaval in downtown Portland. They stopped in slightly before our 4AM closing time. I was already a fan of theirs for a year or two. I regularly danced to their songs on stage. I had (and still have) the CD “Hang on Little Tomato.” I danced to their song “Una Notte Napoli” for them that evening. They tipped well. While we were closing, they invited me to attend some kind of an after party. Laurie, the owner of Carnaval, was very strict about not allowing any funny business to take place involving customers and dancers. I also didn't think it was safe to just go and hang out with them at 4AM. So, making sure that Laurie overheard me, I told them that it was against the rules and not something I was willing to do. They proceeded to mock and laugh at me. One of them called me a “square,” while air-drawing the shape of a square with his finger. Their reaction only cemented my decision never to hang out with them.

I still listen to my Pink Martini CD sometimes, but am really disgusted by their mocking and dismissive reaction to me not feeling comfortable hanging out with them at 4AM. I also don't respect losers who hang out in strip clubs for entertainment purposes without getting paid to be there. I'm actually thinking about throwing away my Pink Martini CD now that I'm reminiscing about this night. If they were decent people, the response would've been:

“Ok, we respect your boundaries. You're a great dancer. Here is some more money. Have a great night and stay safe.”