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SuperDude

Detroit, Michigan

If we accept the premise that politics and politicians are controlled by money, then strip club owners need to use their considerable wealth and get political. Fighting the same battles in court, over and over again, makes lawyers rich but doesn't solve anything. I argue for clubs to become good corporate citizens as part of an effort to defuse opposition to their operations. I realize that independent businessmen may reject this approach as “wussy” or submissive, but let's look at what might work.

Look at the exterior of the club and see if posters, billboards or signage might be offensive to neighbors in residential housing. Be objective about their reactions, not dismissive. While it is commercially protected speech, exterior signage can be toned down so it does not become a target for neighborhood groups.

Consider hiring a security guard service for the exterior of the club to insure that patrons behave themselves when they leave. A nod from a security guard can deter a patron from parking in front of a private residence or from urinating on a residential lawn upon leaving the club. As much as I didn't like it, I believe that some Detroit clubs moved in the right direction when they would not admit the patron unless he could show a ticket from the parking lot. (Penthouse Club, Detroit, MI)

Campaign contributions to city council, judges and other elected officials are critical. Get on board with winners early and keep in touch. Some politicians reject the support out of hand because they fear the alleged “taint” of such an association, but most will accept it if it's done quietly. Form a PAC or a separate corporation and exercise the rights of free speech described in the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Citizens United .

Affiliated charitable non-profit corporations can do many things to enhance the image. No one wants their kid wearing a uniform with a strip club's name on his back, so set up an affiliate and sponsor teams under another name. The parents will know who is giving their kid a chance to play hockey or basketball and may be less likely to try to shut down the operation making it possible. (It may be awkward for some of the dads if dancers come to the games, but that's an individual issue.) Auto dealers, hospitals, car washes, grocery stores and major retailers sponsor teams, so why not strip clubs--under another name.

Work with local hospitals and health care clinics to sponsor programs for patients who don't have health insurance. Have a dental health day. Since these events would not require wearing a uniform with the club's name, the sponsorship could be in the club's name and made public.

Buying community goodwill may prove cheaper than protracted and repetitious litigation.