Canadian journalist Spencer MacNaughton is launching an LGBTQ investigative journalism magazine, and the Mercedes House pool and gym are his “second home.” This is Spencer's West Side Story.
So what is your New York story? Were you born here or are you a recent arrival?
I was born and raised in Toronto, Canada, and moved to New York 10 years ago to attend Columbia University Journalism School. For the past 10 years, I've worked in mainstream media as a journalist/producer for The Wall Street Journal, 60 Minutes+, and many other publications. I also created and taught a course on LGBTQ journalism at NYU for four years.
Right now, I'm launching Unclosed Media, an LGBTQ investigative news publication that will launch Labor Day week. We are currently in the midst of fundraising and are looking for individuals or foundations interested in making 100% tax-deductible donations. Additionally, we are also looking for story ideas. Please reach out to me with any information regarding any of the above.
What was your first job and what are you doing now?
My first job was an internship. Night Line I worked at ABC News and transcribed live interviews during my internship. I made some great friends, expanded my network, and got carpal tunnel syndrome.
What's your favorite moment in New York so far?
There are so many! Nights spent on the rooftop of The Standard Hotel with friends visiting from Toronto, summer afternoons spent poolside at The Mercedes Club in Midtown Manhattan, lively evenings bar-hopping around Hell's Kitchen, and nights on patios anywhere on 9th Avenue.
Why do you like Hell's Kitchen?
I love Hell's Kitchen because of the countless restaurants and bars (especially those that serve frozen margaritas), but most of all, I love the community. Every time I walk down 9th Avenue, I see friends that I now consider family, and I see store owners that have been there for decades.
Did I mention it's super gay? That's flattering. Did I mention my boyfriend owns an apartment on the Strip? That's even flattering. I think it's easy to take for granted how safe Hell's Kitchen is for the LGBTQ community…especially at a time when our community is under attack in this country.
What is your super power or hidden talent?
I am an extrovert. I literally never get bored of talking to people, socializing, going out, and being around other human beings.
Is there anything else we should know about you?
I'm a homebody who loves my community. As I prepare to launch Unclosed Media, I'm committed to protecting the LGBTQ community across this country. The LGBTQ community has seen enough, and we need to do all we can to protect families from an incredibly powerful, well-resourced and effective anti-LGBTQ ecosystem.
Spencer's favorite Hell's Kitchen location
Mercedes Club — 550 W54th Street (adjacent to 10th/11th Ave)
MC is my second home. Tonya Jacobs is an amazing manager, Paulie Scalia is an excellent trainer, and Michael “Gucci” Sherman is the best de facto “Mayor of Mercedes” anyone could ask for. I can spend 10 hours at MC and not even notice the time passing. It's my office, my gym, my community, my playground. It's a little-known hidden gem of Hong Kong.
gossip — 733 9th Avenue (intersecting W49th/50th St)
Quesadillas. Chicken wings. Cheap beer. Live sports. A laid back Irish vibe. What's not to like?!
Ritas — 756 9th Avenue (corner of W51st St)
The frozen margaritas are amazing. Always see someone you know. Always a great time.
Planet Octopus — 705 9th Avenue (intersecting W48th/49th St)
The burritos are absolutely delicious, and if you can stand the heat, the “Scary” sauce is addictive.
Valentino and Jet Hair Salon — 822 10th Avenue (intersecting W54th/55th St)
I am biased because my hairdresser John is from Turkey and he gave me the best advice on which doctor to see for hair transplant surgery. Thanks to John, I feel at ease when I cut my hair when I was feeling very anxious.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Check out Unclosed Media's welcome video and PRIDE update video
You can follow Spencer on LinkedIn If you know someone who would be a great fit for West Side Story (or would like to nominate yourself), please fill out this form: w42st.info/WSSnominations
For more West Side Stories and reader recommendations, check out the Hell's Kitchen Local app on W42ST.
