Greg Quast, owner of the Elbo Room, sent WMBD 31 News the following statement:

"Recently a statement was displayed on a message board in my bar, the Elbo Room, indicating that it was not a gay bar.  First and foremost, I would like to apologize for any unrest this has caused the community of Peoria, gay or straight.  While I was not responsible for the sign nor was I present when it was posted, as the owner of the bar, I take responsibility and am sincerely sorry.  I've addressed the situation with the individuals involved and I assure you this behavior is not tolerated or condoned at my bar.  I will do everything I can to make sure nothing like this happens again.

The Elbo room is a karaoke bar.  There is no sexual orientation attached to that.  Anyone and everyone of legal drinking age are welcome.

Furthermore, this incident does not reflect my personal views.  I have several close friends in the gay community who I have always supported and will continue to support in the future."

View the statement on WMBD 31's website at http://centralillinoisproud.com/content/fulltext/?cid=53191

One World One Equality is still planning a PEACEFUL Rally at Elbo Room - Friday at 2:00 and 6:00, and Saturday at 10:00 am, to raise awareness of the harmful nature of these types of incidents.  I trust our community appreciates the public apology from Mr. Quast and hopes that in the future events such as these do not happen again.