Banking Blues

Lately I've encountered stories of sex-negativity on a level that I had not previously contemplated. I knew that it is incredibly difficult to find space to lease for an "Adult" business, but I did not know that it was difficult to process the money made in one! Kripes! Money is money folks and legitimate businesses earning fairly good profits should be able to - for example - process transactions and deposit money...

Here's the scoop, I spoke to one of the owners of an adult business who shared the experience of walking into a Washington Mutual Bank with a really big check, like kilobucks for startup funding, and was told "sorry but we won't open accounts for adult businesses." What the heck is that about? Apparently Washington Mutual even has a list of business types that they will not serve. The account manager was even compelled to call the next day to reiterate that they did not want "that type" of business. Talk about being jerks...

Mind you I patronize this adult business and it's classy, sassy and a very professionally run place. The owners put thought, planning and hard earned cash into creating a boutique feel that is welcoming and very positive. These people are making money the old fashioned way by putting quality products in a tasteful setting that attracts a broad spectrum of customers.

Part two...

You all know about the Seattle Erotic Art Festival (SEAF) I presume. If you saw this year's adverts, they featured a beautiful photo of a nude posed discretely, no dangly bits or anything exposed. What you don't know is that the artistic staff at SEAF had a nearly impossible time getting the darned things printed!!!

This is Seattle by golly, not flipping Salt Lake! What if the Seattle Art Museum wanted to do a show featuring artists such as Francisco Goya, Edouard Manet, or heavens forbid, August Rodin! I'm guessing that since these artists are famous...no problem. Nevertheless they produced some might sexy imagery.

I'll continue to follow this and other stories. I'm aware that the predominant societal attitude concerning sex is negative, but I surround myself with people that are open and attuned to the power and beauty of positive sexual experiences. It's easy to become complacent and forget.

I'm looking for a new bank.