by David Greene 

After a wild murderous melee outside a local night club, we asked readers their thoughts on the club scene and how guests can stay safe.

I think that economically they actually help the community with their taxes, but there’s a lot of danger because it’s not really positive or energetic because most people want to get loose and go wild. And that can lead to negativity. So violence-wise it’s a bad thing, but economically it’s a good thing.
Joshua Cabrera, Kingsbridge 

 

 

 

In my opinion, there should be a couple of night clubs for all the young people, so their moms and dads my age will know where their kids are and are safe in the community as they go and dance and have a drink with their friends. They will enjoy themselves and be off the streets and away from trouble in a safe environment. There’re not enough clubs now for the younger people, so they all go to one place and when everybody goes to the one place, you have conflict. John Peelan, Woodlawn

 

 

 

It’s unfortunate, but it happens. Night clubs have been around since before I was a younger man and there was always trouble and violence at night clubs. We had Prohibition and that didn’t work. People work all week and like to unwind and go to night clubs and socialize with their friends. So there’s really nothing you can do about it. Night clubs are around, so you just have to be aware of your surroundings and what type of club you go to and just be careful. Michael Reddington, Norwood

 

 

 

I think these things happen within any group of people. I think the issue is what makes people get violent and do this. Yes, alcohol plays a part, but some people are more violent than others and it’s difficult to stop that. How you pick a club that is safe is another good question. By a community’s word of mouth, do your research. That’s the point of Yelp and other websites. You shouldn’t have to be afraid of violence when you go out. Emanuel Antigua, Inwood

 

 

 

As far as selecting a club, location is always key. A strict dress code and an admission cover are also important. It goes across all races and ethnicity and really comes back to income. I’m in a band called OMF and we perform regularly at Pianos, the Brickhouse Brewery and Revolution and they never have a problem.  Usually, if you have people looking for a cheaper night, you get a younger crowd and people with limited funds. If you have a club without a dress code, you’ll get a rougher looking crowd. James Donald, Jamaica, Queens