Wanted:Gay benefactor(s) to buy Boom Boom, Inn

Fred Karger, of Save the Boom, is looking for a new owner for the landmark gay bar in Laguna Beach — without the participation of the present owner, Steven Udvar-Hazy.

Karger says he “will canvass the globe to find a buyer” for the Boom Boom Room and the Coast Inn in which it is located.

The Boom Boom Room is the oldest continuously operating gay bar in the Western United States, Karger says.

“Once discovered and rediscovered, we are confident that this could be the most successful and profitable gay hotel and nightclub in the world,” he said.

Udvar-Hazy extended the lease on the bar until September after Karger began his campaign last year, but time is running out for the bar.

The group recently turned in nearly 6,000 signatures to the Mayor and City Council asking for support to “Save the Boom”.

Karger issued the call this week and says he has had two calls from potential buyers.

“I’m hoping he [Udvar-Hazy] will entertain offers and if the price is right sell the property,” Karger said.

“We will spend as long as it takes, talk to as many people and contact as many companies as we can to try and find a ‘knight in shining armor’ to come in and save the day.

“Laguna Beach has been a gay destination for more than 100 years. If the current owner could be persuaded to sell this historic building to a gay buyer, or one of our many friends who will keep it gay, then Laguna Beach will remain a safe and welcoming city to the gay community for the next 100 years.”

Udvar-Hazy did not return a call from the Coastline Pilot seeking comment.

For more information, contact (949) 494-4750 or e-mail savetheboom@aol.com

Cindy Frazier

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Should city officials take steps to save the Boom Boom Room? Write us at P.O. Box 248, Laguna Beach, CA, 92652, e-mail us at coastlinepilot@latimes.com or fax us at 494-8979. Please give your name and tell us your home address and phone number for verification purposes only.