The Eagle will also house the largest leather shop south of New York City where designer and artist Michael Lado will do custom work. The back patio is still being built out, with a 40-foot long fire feature and a separate bar. The Eagle is a completely new gay bar, one that recognizes its core constituency while also attending to the realities of today's market. So many people have their hands in this place—Chuck Bowers sold much of the Hippo's fixtures to owners John and Paul Gasser and Charles and Greg King at bargain prices. Renovation costs were kept down by community members who offered to make curtains. "People wanted this," Pijanowski said. "They really wanted this. I feel like this is my home. I helped build it." The Eagle aims to stay that home for many while making room for new generations. The kitchen might not be open yet, but there's plenty on the menu already.