FLORIDAAGENDA.COM DECEMBER 25, 2013 H ISSUE 214
New Year’s Eve Parties Guide Page 15
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FORBIDDEN BROADWAY, A NSFW CHRISTMAS PACKAGE page 16
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his year’s Judy Shepherd Toy Drive was held at Rumors Bar and Grill, in Wilton Manors, on Friday, December 20th. A spokesman for the organization said the event was“ another amazing success. In just under 3 weeks we collected and distributed over 1400 toys.” The recipient organizations were: • Thurgood Marshall Elementary School • St Clements Church • LifeNet4Families • Childrens Diagnostic Treatment Center • Kids In Distress
Rumors owner Shawn plays Santa and gets some help from Mary Jane Cunningham
PHTOTO BY JOYCE BLUESTEIN
KEVIN MILLER
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West Palm Beach, FL – Rob Lopicola, a former weatherman for WPTV-Channel 5, has been given an extended sentence after he was convicted of having sex with two underage teenage boys. Lopicola, who will now have to register as a sex offender, was sentenced to 56 months in prison for his 2010-2011 crimes according to the Palm Beach Post. Though he spent the past 18 months in jail, Judge Barry Cohen said Lopicola deserved to be punished for his crimes. Prosecutors were seeking a 10 year sentence, while Lopicola’s lawyers sought out a probation. They two parties settled at 56 months in prison – just under five years. After Lopicola’s 538 days of credited jailtime, he is set to be released in roughly three years. One of Lopicola’s victims spoke out against the sentence, saying he wasn’t sure if the sentence would change him for the better. Prosecutors of the victim said they believe Lopicola took advantage of the 15-year-old’s insecurities, including depression caused by his mother’s alcoholism and his own struggles with anorexia. “You need help and you need to want help,” said the now 18-year-old victim. “I feel for you as a person with a serious disease who is out of control.” Another victim, an unidentified 17-yearold, and Lopicola were interrupted when his mother came home unexpectedly and found Lopicola and her son in the shower naked. “I was self-centered, ignorant, careless, selfish and just stupid,” Lopicola said. “I want to help others not to make the same choices. My weaknesses can become their
Tallahassee, FL – According to Equality Florida, a bill that would create a statewide registry for domestic partnerships is drawing bipartisan support in Tallahassee. The registry’s lead sponsor, Rep. Linda Stewart (D-FL), filed the bill last week and will be joined by Rep. Dave Hood (R-FL), who is signing on as the main Republican co-sponsor. Called the “Florida Families Act,” the bill will be sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Eleanor Sobel (D-FL). “Floridians deserve better than the existing patchwork of protections for domestic partners across the state. This important effort will ensure that uniform provisions are in place,” said Sen. Sobel. “My domestic parnership bill will strengthen Florida Families and give them the confidence that they are covered no matter where in Florida they travel or live.” Equality Florida reports that more than half of Floridians live in a community that provides domestic partnership registries, including Leon, Volusia, Orange, Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, Sarasota and Pinellas counties. Pensacola just recently joined the ranks on December 12. “From Pensacola to Key West, Florida has seen a wave of bipartisan support for domestic partner registries benefitting both same-sex and opposite-sex couples,” said Mallory Garner-Well, Public Policy Director for Equality Florida. “This mea-sure would provide key protections that Floridians need right now to take care of their loved ones.” The Florida Families Act will make it easier to provide important legal protections to domestic partners on a statewide level, including hospital visitation, medical issues, and funeral arrangements.
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Former Weatherman Sentenced to 56 Months in Prison
Statewide Domestic Partnership Registry Draws Bipartisan Sponsorship
THE 8TH ANNUAL JUDY SHEPHERD TOY DRIVE AT RUMORS
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COURTESY OF PALM BEACH POST.COM
Lopicola in former job as weatherman
strengths. My struggles can become their warnings.” The Palm Beach Post reports that Lopicola intends to begin his rehabilitation by moving to Tampa to take care of his mother, who had a heart attack following his arrest in July of 2012.
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SUNSHINE STATE
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LGBT Activist Missing in Buffalo
The Uncertain Future of Duck Dynasty West Monroe, LA – As head of the reality series “Duck Dynasty,” Phil Robertson
Cast of ‘Duck Dynasty”
Salt Lake City, UT – Though Utah’s ban on same-sex marriage was ruled unconstitutional on Friday, the case is already headed back to court for further deliberation according to the Associated Press. U.S. District Judge Robert J. Shelby surprised the nation Friday afternoon, with over 100 couples coming out to get married. Additional couples are expected to flood the court rooms early in the week before the higher court makes any other decisions. Legal experts have said that even if they grant a stay on the law, the licenses issued thus far will more than likely remain valid. Utah has been a longtime opponent against same-sex marriage, as it is the home to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as the main power behind Proposition 8. In Shelby’s ruling stated that the constitutional amendment approved in 2004 violates the rights of gay and lesbian couples that is provided under the 14th Amendment. He went on to say that there was no proof that samesex marriages would affect opposite-sex marriages. Shelby’s ruling has put Utah in the spotlight. Republican Gov. Gary Herbert said he felt had knowing that by an “activist federal judge attempting to override the will of the people of Utah.” Shelby was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2011.
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Buffalo, NY – 36-year-old Frank Goldberg, an activist for various LGBT groups, has been missing for over a week. Advocate reports Goldberg identifies as “genderqueer,” uses feminine pronouns, and is described as “5’5” tall, 150 pounds, having a ‘tomboy-ish appearance with short, graying blond hair.’” The activist was last seen wearing a green canvas coat with a black knit hat adorned with a knitted mohawk. Her sister, Harmony Goldberg, created a “Help Find Frank Goldberg” page on Facebook, where she released the following statement: “Frank is a loving and strong person, and she is valued deeply by the people in her life. She is both gruff and gentle. She loves taking care of animals, especially cats. She has been an activist and an advocate in the LGBT community for many years, helping to build a transgender support group at Buffalo’s Pride Center, which has been a valuable space of support and community for dozens of people. She also has a long history of providing support and services for people with addictions and with harm reduction work in particular. Frank took her
SUBMITTED PHOTO
COURTESY OF BUFFALO NEWS.COM
Frank Goldberg
Santa Fe, NM – Last Thursday, New Mexico became the newest state to legalize same-sex marriage. According to the Associated Press, Justice Edward L. Chavez said that none of the state’s marriage statutes prohibit same-sex marriage, though other state laws have interfered. “Accordingly, New Mexico may neither constitutionally deny same-gender couples the right to marry nor deprive them of the rights, protections and responsibilities of marriage laws, unless the proponents of the legislation – the opponents of same-gender marriage – prove that the discrimination caused by the legislation is ‘substantially related to an important government interest,’” wrote Chavez. Officials from different counties are now asking that the court clarifies the law, enforcing a state policy on same-sex marriages. Gay rights activists in New Mexico were relieved by the lifting of the ban after a lengthy battle for equality. “This truly is a historic and joyful day for New Mexico,” said ACLU-New Mexico representative Laura Schauer Ives. “The more than 1,000 same-sex couples who have already married in New Mexico can now rest certain knowing their marriages will be recognized and respected by our state.” In August, eight of the state’s counties began issuing marriage licenses to gay couples after a county clerk in southern New Mexico decided to allow the unions independently.
Utah’s Same-Sex Marriage Case Returns to Court
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New Mexico Legalize Same-Sex Marriage
has built himself an empire. The A&E television show averages 14.6 million viewers and has brought in an alleged $400 million in merchandise sales, so it may not be entirely surprising that the network – who recently announced that they were letting Robertson go – plans to air the 10 previously filmed episodes which include footage of the patriarch himself. The network was quick to drop Robertson following recent anti-gay and racist comments made in an interview with GQ. When asked ‘What, in your mind, is sinful?’ Robertson responded with a noticeably unfiltered statement. “Start with homosexual behavior and just morph out from there. Bestiality, sleeping around with this woman and that woman and that woman and those men,” he told the magazine. “Don’t be deceived. Neither the adulterers, the idolaters, the male prostitutes, the homosexual offenders, the greedy, the drunkards, the slanderers, the swindlers – they won’t inherit the kingdom of God. Don’t deceive yourself. It’s not right.” Following the statement, Cracker Barrel announced that they would discontinue the sales of any Duck Dynasty merchandise until further notice. However, that boycott only lasted two days. Cracker Barrel released the following statement on Sunday: “Dear Cracker Barrel Customer: When we made the decision to remove and evaluate certain Duck Dynasty items, we offended many of our loyal customers. Our intent was to avoid offending, but that’s just what we’ve done.”
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wallet that contained her identification and some cash, but she does not have her phone with her.” The statement asks anyone with additional information related to Frank Goldberg to contact the family at findfrankgoldberg@gmail.com
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NATION
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EDITORIAL BY BOBBY BLAIR WITH ADDITIONAL WRITING BY GRANT JAMES DECEMBER 25, 2013 • ISSUE 214
HIDING INSIDE THE BASELINE:
FOUNDER MULTIMEDIA PLATFORMS BOBBY BLAIR – CEO / MANAGING PARTNER
Publisher Bobby Blair Comments on the 2014 Sochi Games
PUBLISHER
After the announcement of Billie Jean King’s role in the 2014 Sochi Olympics by President Obama, Florida Agenda publisher Bobby Blair had some opinions of his own. After all, he is an openly gay athlete with experience performing in the former Soviet Union, having represented the USA in the first ever Goodwill Games of 1986 in the sport of tennis. Blair, writer Barry Buss and the rest of the Hiding Inside The Baseline team have some pretty strong opinions about what may transpire at the 2014 Sochi Games. In light of the recent events, Blair has released a brand new passage from his upcoming book due out in February of next year, which chronicles his views about Sochi and the events that will soon unfold.
KEVIN HOPPER
BOBBY BLAIR
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER EDITOR GRANT JAMES
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Tom Bonanti, Jean Doherty, Patrick Robert, Rick Karlin, Gregg Shapiro, Collin Meyers Photography • Stephen Kuttner, Dennis Dean, T.J. Gillespie, Lissa Good, Big Dewitte
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From Hiding Inside The Baseline...
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pon leaving the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy after several weeks of great practice with Andre Agassi, Ricky Brown, and others, I was prepared to join my team mates on a long flight to the former USSR. The Goodwill Games were a big deal back in 1986. Coming on the heels of the US boycott of the 1980 Summer Games in Moscow and the USSR’s boycott of the 1984 Summer games in Los Angeles, the Goodwill games were the brain child of Ted Turner (of CNN fame). They were designed to do nothing more than their namesakes stated; to re-establish some semblance of good will between the two Cold War nations. As Americans heading to Russia, we were under strict rules to keep our out of competition behavior in check, assimilating with the native Russian people as little as possible. The importance of these Games was well beyond the athletic competition; what mattered here most was that no Americans were to be involved in an embarrassing international incident: I got the message. All that exploring I would do when traveling for my tennis – there would be no cruising the gay parts of town on this trip. The tennis was being played in Yelma, a village off the Black Sea. The weather was awful; cold, wet and dreary, making the whole country just seem drab. All of
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the architeture looked the same, like some military barracks housing project. There was minimal TV and radio – not that I could understand a word of it anyway. The famed state newspapers and magazines were also in Russian, making reading about the local news impossible. Before we left to come here, I had read up on the living conditions of the average Russian my age and was struck by the level of fear and control they lived under. The stark lack of human and civil rights available to the average Russian citizen sounded disturbing in the books I had read, but to see it first hand was different. If it wasn’t against the law to express yourself, everyone sure walked around like it was. My understanding was the consequences for acting out against the party line were serious, with possible jail terms. That specter hanging over everyone’s head resulted in an atmosphere of paralyzing fear emanating from the
Russian citizens, a fear I oddly connected with. It wasn’t ok to express yourself or be yourself, and to do so had serious consequences, and they all lived within a self imposed prison, out of fear of being discovered. And though I may have been living in a different type of self imposed prison, I connected with them. Political tensions between the two countries were quite high when we arrived. We were under strict instructions to be on our best behavior. There was to be no protesting of any kind permitted. To violate that creed would result in an immediate one way ticket home. On the flight over, I read about past political protests at the Olympic Games. I was enthralled by the story of John Carlos and Tommie Smith at the 1968 Summer Games in Mexico City. Racial tensions in the United States
ALL MATERIAL in the Florida Agenda is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the Florida Agenda. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers and cartoonists published herein is neither inferred or implied. The appearance of names or pictorial representation does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of that person or persons. Although this paper is supported by many fine advertisers, the Agenda cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers. EDITORIAL POSITIONS of the Florida Agenda are expressed in editorials and in editors’ notes as determined by the paper’s editors. Other opinions are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Florida Agenda or its staff. TO SUBMIT A LETTER OR COMMENTARY: Letters should be fewer than 400 words; commentaries should be fewer than 750 words. Submissions may be edited for content and length, and must include a name, address and phone number for verification. Send submissions by e-mail to Editor@floridaagenda.com by fax to 954-566-7900 or by regular mail to the Agenda office, attn: Letters/Commentary. MAIN OFFICE/ SALES & CLASSIFIEDS: 2435 North Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, Florida 33305 Phone 954-380-8563 FAX 954-380-8567 A bureau of LGBTQNation.com www.floridaagenda.com Printed by Forum Publishing Group (954) 574-5321 MEDIA ADVISORY BOARD Alan Beck, Keith Blackburn, Robert Boo, Reece Darham, Richard Hack, Kevin Hopper, Paul Hugo, Peter Jackson, Krishan Manners, Terry DeCarlo, Mark Negrete, Jackson Padgett, Gary Santis, Jason Tamanini, Brett Tannenbaum, Dean Trantalis, Victor Zepka © 2013, Mutimedia Platforms LLC. All rights reserved.
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BILLIE JEAN KING:
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COVER STORY /floridaagenda
REPRESENTING AMERICA WITH PRIDE
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ashington, D.C. – President Obama announced last week that the U.S. delegation to the Winter Olympics would include Billie Jean King. Though the president will not be attending the games himself – something that hasn’t occurred in over 10 years – he appears to be sending a clear message of equality to Sochi. In an interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, King said she was “thrilled” to represent her country in the 2014 Games. “I’m very proud to go as an athlete, and as a gay woman,” King said. When responding to whether or not she thought that the president was not attending the Games due to the “homosexual propaganda” ban, King said he should “go ahead and say it.” She followed jokingly with a statement that he appeared to be “sending a ‘King’ instead of a president.” In the tennis world, King is a legend. She won 39 Grand Slam titles, beat Bobby Riggs in the “Battle of Sexes” of 1973, and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009. Though she is now a pioneer for the gay community (especially gay athletes), King was
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HIDING INSIDE THE BASELINE were reaching a critical mass that summer. Smith and Carlos both medaled in the 400 relay for the USA and during the medal ceremony and the playing of our national anthem, they raised their black gloved fists in the air in solidarity for civil rights movement taking place back in the US. The two of them were on the next flights out of Mexico City but they are a permanent part of Olympic history – prime examples of the power of political expression in the domain of sports. The long flight had me envisioning all kinds of different scenarios for my young self once afoot in the USSR. I certainly was not ready to take a stand like Carlos and Smith did and make some type of statement regarding the state of human and civil rights discrimination that gays the world round faced. But taking inventory of where I was as a person compared to what I had just experienced being around the free spirited Agassi and reading about the courageous Smith and Carlos and seeing the effects the overt oppression of a nation upon its citizenry had and I knew something within me had to change. I was tiring of being how I was. Of living a lie. It was the worst kind of lie, for I could not to my own self be true.
BY GRANT JAMES
originally married to a man, named Lawrence King. She began to admit to herself that she was attracted to women in the early ‘70s, and eventually filed a lawsuit asking for a division of assets, according to NPR. In 2007, she spoke with The Times (London) of the divorce and the hardships she endured because of it. “It was very hard on me because I was outed,” King said. “Fifty percent of gay people know who they are by the age of 13. I was in the other fifty percent.” King, now 70, will be joining hockey player Caitlin Cahow and Brian Boitano (both are openly-gay athletes) for what appears to be a very inclusive group of athletes, despite the White House’s downplay of the selection. “That’s not a message we would wait to send through this manner,” said White House press secretary Jay Carney in a statement obtained by Buzzfeed. “I think that this delegation brings attention to the remarkable diversity of the United States, as well as the success that the United States has had in sports, both at the Olympics and beyond. It is also a demonstration of high-level success in civic activism, as well as in government service.”
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How much longer was I going to keep living in fear of people finding out this was just the way God made me? Addendum: What if I had come out then at the 1986 Goodwill Games? What would my life had been like? Oh it would have been an international incident alright. The world was just so not ready for a gay male athlete representing the USA to take a stand against the discrimination and bigotry gays faced in all facets of life. Neither was I ready to be that person to carry the torch for my similarly affected brethren. It would have likely been the end of my tennis career; my need for outside financial support to keep playing would have dried up in an instant. It would have been a media circus no doubt, with the main stream media and sports world nowhere near as enlightened as they are today. Plus, there is little doubt the general public would know my name. I would have been a civil rights pioneer. A trailblazer, hopefully not a martyr in the mold of Harvey Milk or Mathew Shepherd. I think back now on all my years spent in the closet with remorse, as a waste, not just for my own self-realization, but for
the countless nameless and faceless gay athletes who came after me who chose to perform also in the closet just like I felt I had to for fear of losing everything. It’s a different time and place now for up and coming international competitors. The Winter Olympic Games are returning to Russia early in 2014. Much is being said and written about the host country’s recent crackdown on free speech as it pertains to the visiting athletes and their views about gay rights. Even in 2014, still much of the world is just not ready to face and address their irrational fears regarding what it means to have gay people amongst them in our overwhelmingly straight world. But today, it’s a different era. It’s 2014 and with the internet as it is, the world is connected like never before. Gay kids like I once was have all kinds of sites and resources available to them online for guidance and support. The days of feeling painfully alone with a shameful secret are gradually fading away. I predict with near certainty that the officials in Russia are in for a rude awakening these Winter Games. I predict that athletes, likely groups of athletes, likely groups of gay and straight
athletes, joining together in solidarity, will protest Russia’s restrictions on freedom of expression regarding gay rights. I predict the protests will be done tastefully and with a forceful purpose behind them, declaring that the days of discriminating against a group of people based on their God-given sexual orientation must end. I predict it will be a circus again, but a different kind of one as athletes from across the globe band together in unity to end the policies of bigotry that still plague our world today. I predict that nobody will be sent home on the next plane, and that the media will celebrate these brave men and women, and it will be a powerful statement to the world that the time has come to put an end to this unfortunate chapter in human history. These athletes will be celebrated, not demonized, and I will watch these events unfold from the comfort of my home, wishing that could have been me in 1986. Wishing that I could be amongst them now to show my support, but knowing in my heart that what I will be watching is going to make the sporting world a better and safer place for all the gay athletes the future may bring.
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BAR MAP 1) ALIBI 2266 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
16) NAKED GRAPE 2163 Wilton Drive Wilton manors
18) NEW YORK GRILLED CHEESE 2207 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
17) NEW MOON 2440 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
3) BOARDWALK 1721 N Andrews Ave Fort Lauderdale
19) RAMROD 1508 NE 4th Ave Fort Lauderdale
2) BILL’S FILLING STATION 2209 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
4) BOOM 2232 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
20) ROSIE’S BAR & GRILL 2449 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
22) SCANDALS SALOON 3073 NE 6th Ave Wilton Manors
21) RUMORS BAR & GRILL 2426 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
5) CORNER PUB 1915 N Andrews Ave Wilton Manors 6) CUBBY HOLE 823 N Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale 7) DAPUR 1620 N Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale 8) DUDES 3270 NE 33rd St Fort Lauderdale
24) SMARTY PANTS 2400 E Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale
23) SIDELINES 2031 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 10) JOHNNY’S 1116 W Broward Blvd Fort Lauderdale
25) THE DRIVE 2390 Wilton Dr Wilton Manors
9) INFINITY LOUNGE 2184 WIlton Drive Wilton Manors
11) LE PATIO 2401 NE 11th Ave Wilton Manors
26) THE STABLE 205 E Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale
29) TROPICS 2000 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
28) TORPEDO 2829 W Broward Blvd Fort Lauderdale
27) 13 I EVEN 2037 Wilton Dr Wilton Manors
12) LIPS 1421 E Oakland Park Blvd Oakland Park
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13) THE MANOR COMPLEX 2345 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 14) MONA’S 502 E Sunrise Blvd Fort Lauderdale 15) MONKEY BUSINESS 2740 N Andrews Ave Fort Lauderdale
30) VILLAGE PUB 2283 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors /floridaagenda
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New Years Eve: Parties, Parties, Parties
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BY GRANT JAMES
Pitbull at American Airlines Arena The Miami legend spends the last day’s of 2013 with his hometown people, singing his best hits, including his classic duet with Ke$ha “Timber”—featuring the ingenious line, “It’s going down, I’m yelling timber.” 9 p.m. American Airlines Arena. 601 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, 33132.
Macy Gray at Casino Miami
Lips Masquerade Ball The ultimate in drag dining celebrates 2014 with a masquerade ball hosted by Diva. A 3-course gala pre-fixe dinner starts at $35. The drags will flirt, flaunt, and maybe molest a diapered yet really hot man dressed as the New Year’s baby. TBA time. 1421 E Oakland Park Blvd, Oakland Park, 33334.
Debby Holiday at Rumors Fierce rock musician Debby Holiday performs live on Rumors stage from 11:30-12:00 before the big ball is dropped. Drink specials include $2 domestics, $2.50 imports, and $1 schnapps. 11:30 p.m. Rumors Bar & Grill. 2426 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33304.
A Great Gatsby Themed Party at The Manor Described as “a spectacular return to elegance and debauchery” on the official flyer, The Manor’s NYE party has taken The Great Gatsby approach this year. Expect high class thrills at this wild party, with 1920’s style entertainment from Pepper Mashay, and others. For more information on tickets, visit themanorcomplex.com. 10 p.m. The Manor. 2345 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
A Very Chi Chi LaRue New Year’s Eve at Boardwalk The queen of porn, Chi Chi LaRue, will be gracing South Florida with her fabulous presence at Boardwalk for a NYE celebration that’s sure to be full of surprises. LaRue will also be DJ’ing live on stage. (Bonus: a gourmet buffet
dinner and free drinks are included in the ticket). Boardwalk. 1721 N. Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33311. TBA time.
Lil Wayne at Cameo The truest survivor of multiple bullet wounds (and trips to the ER for misuse of codeine) makes his way to Cameo nightclub for a night of rap, toasting, and the most expensive table in the country costing $100,000. Come on guys, splurge a little. Lil’ Wayne would appreciate it. He’s been through a lot. 9 p.m. Cameo Nightclub. 1445 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 33139.
Wilton Drive If you’re planning on drinking and don’t want to be cab-hopping for the entirety of the evening/night/morning, Wilton Drive might be your best bet. Everything is within close range, and there are practically no covers (as of print) for any of the bars. BILL’S FILLING STATION plans to put on a drag show of epic proportions in addition to a complimentary champagne toast and a balloon drop at midnight. Bill’s Filling Station. 2209 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305. SIDELINES will be offering a complimentary champagne toast,
a balloon drop (with cash prizes inside as well as VIP packages and a trip to Vegas!), and a countdown of the top 100 music videos of 2013 via Billboard. As always, the football games will be playing on multiple TVs! Sidelines. 2031 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305. NEW MOON has a DJ spinning from 10 p.m. to close in addition to a free champagne toast at midnight and surprise party favors. New Moon. 2440 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305. ALIBI will be taking over the parking lot NYE, with a VJ, the Ladies of Soul performing live on stage, and multiple outdoor bars. There is an expected attendance of 2000-3000 people. Alibi. 2266 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305. VILLAGE PUB offers a complimentary toast at midnight as well as a variety of party favors. Village Pub. 2283 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305. The almighty RAMROD will be putting their usual underwear night on hold for a balloon drop at midnight complete with $800 in cash & prizes! Ramrod. 1508 NE 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33304.
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The once crack-addicted Macy Gray rings the New Year in with hopefully less of a bang than year’s prior. The “I Try” singer supports her recent Covered release, which contains R&B-tinged cover versions of classic moody love songs. 9:30 p.m. Casino Miami Jai-Alai. 3500 NW 37th Ave, Miami, 33142.
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ew Year’s Eve is a time for celebration. After all, we’ve survived another year. Praise Beyonce. NYE is also a time for amateur drinkers to come out of the cracks, descending upon every bar in the tri-county area. Thus, the road is littered with seasoned alcoholics and amateur drinkers, so we here at Guy Magazine ask that you don’t text and drive, know your limit when drinking, and if all else fails, call a cab. Now, if you are a responsible adult and are willing to brave the trenches, NYE is offering a fantastic slew of parties. There’s concerts, events, parties, and of course, the traditional complimentary champagne toasts at midnight. Below are some of the best events worth attending.
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The Week 12/26 to 1/1
THE WEEK
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BY PATRICK ROBERT
Forbidden Broadway, a NSFW Christmas Package THURSDAY 12/26
FRIDAY 12/27
SATURDAY 12/28
A Christmas Package Not Suitable for Work
Broadway Farce at its Finest
He’s Got Legs
Frobidden Broadway has been a staple of the musical theater scene since its first revue performance back in 1982. Conceived, written and directed by Gerard Alessandrini, the show pokes fun at the current Broadway sampling. This year’s incarnation aims its daggers at Porgy and Bess, Anything Goes, Spamalot, Spiderman, Book of Mormon, Once, Follies, and Nice Work If You Can Get It. Hilarious spoofing, outrageous costumes, and dead-on impressions make this a can’t-miss for any serious theater aficionados. 7:30 p.m. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, 33401.
The ultimate otters make their way to the South Florida music scene, performing all of the hits at the Hard Rock. Since the 1970s ZZ Top has used their blues rock pedigree to become one of the more successful rock bands with legendary singles (and videos) such as “Legs” and “Sharp Dressed Man.” A new album entitled La Futura finds the band back in fine form, crafting blues-rock with blue-collar titles such as “I Gotsta Get Paid” and “Consumption.” Since one of their singles is used as the introductory theme for A&E’s now homophobic Duck Dynasty, signs asking for the otters to repent may be in order. 8 p.m. Hard Rock Live. 5747 Seminole Way, Hollywood, 33314.
Perhaps there were many present to open on Christmas Day, but the biggest package waits for you at Ramrod’s Thursday night “Battle of the Bulge” contest. Men strip down to their underwear and engage in the most classic of all alpha male activities: whose “member” is bigger. Drink specials include $3 Bud and Bud Light. If you’ve got what it takes, show it off for the community and perhaps win the grandest prize of all: approval. 10 p.m. Ramrod. 1508 NE 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33304.
To have your event listed, please email editor@floridaagenda.com
MONDAY 12/30
WEDNESDAY 1/1
Voluptuous and Vivacious
‘Moov’ on Up: The 2014 Moov Festival
CAROL ROSEGG
Since his debut on “Last Comic Standing,” Ralphie May has made a name for himself with a relatable comedic genius poking fun at both his own corpulent frame and society’s hypocrisies. Voted one of Variety’s 10 Comics to Watch, Ralphie recently released his record-setting fourth one-hour special for Comedy Central, “Too Russia performs this classic story Big to Ignore.” Not only will he at the Parker Playhouse. Enchantment, hope, and romance combine be dishing out his humor, but he’s in a performance that features ex- also dishing out some barbecue, quisite sets, lavish costuming, and with a new line of barbecue sauce named Fat Baby Jesus due out on a full symphony orchestra. The Valentine’s Day. His shows tend to State Ballet of Russia has showsell out, so buy early. 8 p.m. Fort cased the art of Russian ballet to Lauderdale Improv. 5700 Semicountries around the world. The nole Way, Hollywood, 33314. ballet dancers are laureates and
Gaysha Boys Abounding Despite how you may have felt about our Olympic competitors, Asian countries are all the rage right now. Even better, they offer up many different stereotypes to explore: geisha girls, samurais, gongs, a last emperor. Now with Anime its own flourishing subculture, Asian culture may be close to its peak in popularity. Even gay culture is taking a shine to Asia, down at the Manor, for no discernible reason other than to celebrate, after Christmas, a unique and culturally rich world. Asian Fantasy night promises a spectacular array of Asian theme productions and visuals along with a performance by Erika Norell and tunes from DJ Terrance Lalley. The big question on everyone’s mind: how nutty will things get once they play ANY PSY song? 10 p.m. Manor Nightclub. 2345 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33304.
Check out this week’s New Year’s Eve feature for the best parties in the area!
This world music festival includes electronic and pop music, DJs and musical newcomers. Headlining is The Wailers—the reggae members of the late Bob Marley’s legendary back-up band. They’re ben recording since the 60’s and were an important start to the international reggae scene. Albums include Exodus and Majestic Warriors. Also appearing are Miami roots-reggae rockers Jahfe, who sing about peach and faith in their socially conscious songs, along with Revolvr, DJ Irie, and Leslie Grace. 11 a.m. Bayfront Park. 301 N Biscayne Blvd, Miami, 33132.
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TUESDAY 12/31
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prizewinners of Russian and international competitions so expect a sophisticated performance. 3 p.m. Parker Playhouse. 707 NE 8th St, Fort Lauderdale, 33301.
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Forbidden Broadway (12/27)
Cinderella (12/29)
SUNDAY 12/29
SUBMITTED PHOTO
It’s everyone’s dream to make it from rags to riches, and with the help of a fashionable fairy (not Carson Kressley), Cinderella figures a way. The State Ballet of
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Slipper Found
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HOLIDAY HUMBUG? EXERCISE IT AWAY!
HEALTH
BY TOM BONANTI
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N
early all of us have had the “blues,” but for some people these moods continue for weeks, months or even years. This condition which affects how people feel about themselves – the way they think about things, how they eat and sleep is called depression. Believe it or not, the holidays with all of their media hype, and tinsel can cause more people to be depressed than any other time of the year. There are basically two types of depression. Major depression has a combination of symptoms that interfere with your ability to work , sleep, eat, and enjoy pleasurable activities. Episodes of major depression may occur once, but more commonly they reoccur several times in a lifetime. Dysthymia, a milder form of depression, involves long- term chronic symptoms that, although not disabling, keep a person from feeling good or functioning well. This type of person is more prone to suffer from major depression later on than any other. Depression is found in people of all ages. Genetics can play a part, although depression can occur in those with no family history of the illness. Serious medical illnesses such as stroke, cancer, and hormonal disorders can trigger depression. Others prone to the illness include people who are overwhelmed by stress as well as those going through a traumatic event such as the death of a loved one, the breakup of a relationship, or the loss of a job. Symptoms of depression include
feelings of sadness, hopelessness, helplessness and guilt. Often there is a loss of interest in pleasurable activities as well as decreased energy and fatigue. Depressed people also report difficulty concentrating, frequent insomnia or over sleeping. Thoughts of suicide and suicide attempts are not uncommon. During the holidays many of these feelings worsen as the person experiences the world noisily celebrating as he or she feels shut out and worthless. If you have symptoms of depression, get yourself a physical exam. If your doctor finds no physical cause, then have him or her refer you to a qualified mental health counselor who can lead you through a psychological evaluation. For many people, a combined treatment plan works best: an anti-depressant for symptom relief, and talk therapy to learn better ways to cope with depression or the causes of depression. As far as exercise and working out, you guessed it! They are one of the best, and most inexpensive ways to combat that case of Holiday Humbug. Vigorous physical activities like swimming, biking, hiking and lifting tend to increase your body’s production of endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers. These are the same hormones that are released after a really good orgasm. How cool is that? This holiday season, why not stay active, happy and yes, horny!? Your friends will thank you, you’ll burn more calories and you’ll avoid becoming the proverbial Scrooge. Questions about this week’s column or fitness and exercise in general? Contact TrainerTomB@aol.com! Check out www.pumpnincgym.com!
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BABA GHANOUSH
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BY CHEF JEAN DOHERTY
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RECIPE
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E
ggplant’s lovely purple skin adds a colorful punch to many healthy eggplant recipes. And it’s great texture is sturdy enough to stand up to the fire of a grill! You’re most familiar with it here in the States, served up breaded and fried, and covered in melted cheese—NOT healthful fare! Chunks of eggplant can be roasted and pureed into a silky, smooth dip. This is Baba Ganoush.
• 2 medium eggplants • 4 cloves garlic, • 1/4 cup lemon juice • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds • 2 tablespoons tahini • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt • Extra-virgin olive oil
sesame seeds, and garlic in an electric blender, and puree. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer eggplant mixture to a medium size mixing bowl, and slowly mix in olive oil. Refrigerate for 3 hours before serving. Enjoy with pita bread, chips, raw veggies, or whatever tickles your fancy. After all, you are the chef!
Although born in Dublin, Ireland, Chef Jean Doherty spent most of her life in Lyon, France, the gastronomical capital of the world. Together with Vero, her partner of 25 years, Jean has owned and run multiple restaurants including Fort Lauderdale’s Le Patio.
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Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking sheet. Place eggplant on baking sheet, and make holes in the skin with a fork. Roast ‘em for 30 to 40 minutes, turning occasionally, or until soft. Remove from oven, and place into a large bowl of cold water. Remove from water, and peel the skin off. Place the eggplant, lemon juice, tahini,
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RECESSION RELIEF- $40 per 90 Mins-Out Calls Higher. Swedish & Deep-Tissue. Specialty is Back, Lower Body, and Feet. Couples Discount. Seniors Welcome. 16 Years Experience. Delray Beach. MA 18563 Dennis (561) 502-2628
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COUNSELING CHALLENGES TREATMENT CENTER, Are drugs or alcohol controlling your life? Get help before you lose the job, health, relationship etc. Residential and Outpatient programs available. Insurance accepted, Call for a no cost consultation and to check insurance coverage call Craig Benoit 954-683-1564 A MIND AT PEACE PSYCHOTHERAPY SERVICES. Ron, “Doc” Chambers 954-627-0103 1975 East Sunrise Blvd., Suite 629 Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33304. Serving Adults, Children, Couples and Families HIV Related Issues Depression – Schizophrenia Relationship Problems - Anger Management. Same-Sex Domestic Violence - Many Other Mental Health Issue. ***Affordable Counseling Fees*** SEEKING PLEASURE? You can’t think right when you’re stressed out. I CAN HELP with a unique service. *HOLISTIC RELAXATION* Sessions are spiritually oriented, confidential and private in my intimate studio. *Professionally Trained *References *Here to serve. Rates as low as $45. Call today and schedule your consultation. Paul Bunting - Life Coach 754-444-7348 www.alignmentscience.com
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EMPLOYMENT SCARFONE’S COAL-FIRED PIZZA IS NOW HIRING for an Experienced Restaurant Manager for our Wilton Drive location soon to open at Gables Wilton Park. Also hiring for experienced Pizza Chefs, Servers, and Hosts. Please email your resume to scarfones1@ aol.com. For questions, call 954.345.3888 GENESIS HEALTH INSTITUTE, the premier Anti-Aging health facility located in Wilton Manors is growing... we are seeking team members for the following positions; Front Desk Receptionist, Acupuncturist, Aesthetician, Nutritionist, Medical Assistant. We are a health and hospitality oriented team of professionals, if you are as well and are interested in any of the positions, please email your resume to dimitrighi1@aol.com for an interview request. THE FLORIDA AGENDA IS LOOKING FOR AN INTERN. Ideal for an aspiring journalist or recent graduate. Join our team and get experience proofreading, editing, doing research on a part-time basis– and, best of all, the opportunity to get your work in print. Contact: grantjames@mmplgbt.com WILTON MANORS FIRM LOOKING FOR AN EXPERIENCED TAX PREPARER. The right person would have several years of business and personal tax preparation experience. Part Time Temporary that may become full time permanent for the right person. $12-$15 an hour based on experience. Send resume with cover letter to info@sterlingaccounting.com PART TIME BARTENDER AND NIGHT SECURITY POSITION AVAILABLE. Bartender should have a following... Call Jerry (954)786-0287. 5 POINTS MASSAGE, Your Relaxation Oasis in Wilton Manors is looking for 2-3 exceptionally talented Licensed Massage Therapists to work as contract workers, part time on an appointment by appointment basis. Thai massage, Reflexology, and other specialty techniques especially considered. Men and women considered. Must be licensed in the State of Florida and carry staterequired personal liability insurance. Studio opens in early June. Call Tom Marten at 954-295-7041 or e-mail at tom@5pointsmassage.com for further info. Be part of Wilton Manors premiere massage studio.
FURNISHED HOUSING 4 WEEK+ SPECIAL FROM $325/WEEK THROUGH END OF NOVEMBER Gay Owned & Operated Apartment Hotel. Beautiful Studio,1 & 2 BR Apts. With Full Kitchens. Turn-key, fully furnished &equipped, clothing optional pool, laundry, parking. Central to Wilton Manors & Haulover Beach. Incl. Wi-Fi, utilities, cable, tel. Pets Welcome. Call Joe or Jack at (954) 927-0090 or visit www.LibertySuites.com
MOVING ELITE RELOCATION MOVING & STORAGE We’ve provided quality moves for over 30 years. It’s always a smooth move when you choose Elite Relocation. Contact us today: 954.975.8660 www.elitemoving.com RED BOX MOVING -- owner in truck on every move. Call norbert directly. Affordable, reliable, careful. Mv#567/insured. (954)305-9176 or (561)506-5540www.redboxmoving.com
PEST CONTROL GOT ANTS? Aloha bugs inc. Full service pest control. Ant Specialist, White Fly, Lawn Spraying. Serving your Community for over 20 Years. (954) 920-BUGS (2847)
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PET SITTING/WALKING PAWPAL DOG WALKING/PET SITTING. Serving Wilton Manors, Ft. Lauderdale, & Oakland Park. Please call Rob. (469) 260-6969 or visit my website www.pawpal.co petwalker11@hotmail.com
REAL ESTATE/SALES RIO VISTA – one of a kind! Quiet Key-West like complex in private oasis-like setting, rarely available. Beautiful Brazilian cherry wood floors, newer kitchen with granite counter tops, living room overlooks beautiful gardens and common pool. Great Rio Vista location East of U.S. Close to shopping, beach, downtown airport & marina. 2 parking spaces. This hidden gem is a must see! $219,000. Call Joann Marcus 954-940-1244
RENT / LEASE WILTON MANORS/FT LAUD 1 bedroom, super clean, central air, laundry on site, small 4 unit gay complex. 5 blocks from the drive, $800, avail now ! 1645 N. Dixie Hwy. Nick 954-805-1195 ROYAL PARK NEAR WILTON MANORS. 1BR/1.5 BA, $825-$900/mo. 2BR/2BA, $950-$1100/mo. Gated community, security. Clubhouse, pools, gym, spa, sauna & steam room. Pets ok. Cable/water/trash included. Call Naim Naqi, Realtor, (954) 565-2025 OAKLAND PARK – Adorable 2BR/1BA tropical cottage home with everything new - kitchen, appliances, paint and more. Large yard, screened patio. Just minutes to beach, entertainment, hospitals, businesses and highways. $1,500/mo. Call (954) 383-4091 WILTON MANORS $695 to $795 Ready to move in 1BD/1BA. Large units, tile floors, walk in closet, newly renovated kitchen and bath, new appl., private paved patio with tropical landscaping, off street parking for one car, Free laundry onsite. Smoke Free unit. No Smoking. No pets. Call 754-366-7563 OAKLAND PARK unfurnished room available August 1st. Professional GWM seeks same. Share bathroom. W/D in unit. Lite kitchen privileges. Non smoker. Must be employed. No pets. Please call Sergio (954) 303-5355
ROOMMATES FT. LAUDERDALE, Private unfurnished room available in SFH. Share bath. Lite kitchen privileges. Rent includes utilities and internet. MUST be employed, and have verifiable reference, clean and neat and NON-SMOKER. $600/MO, & deposit of $250. Room is available immediately. Jim (954) 303-5355
SPIRITUALITY THE PARISH OF STS. FRANCIS & CLARE 101 NE 3rd Street - staffed by Franciscan friars - just N of Broward Blvd. and E of Andrews Ave. Mass Times: Sat @ 5 PM; Sun @ 10:30 AM; Wed @ 7 PM. Where we welcome and appreciate diversity - a progressive community in the Catholic tradition. 954-731-8173; www.stsfrancisandclare.org
TRAVEL BEST TRAVEL & TOURS OF WILTON MANORS invite you to be part of our group celebrating the 50th birthday of Samuel Caceras on board the Royal Caribbean Liberty of the Seas for a 5 day Western Caribbean voyage from April 26th-May 1, 2014 round trip from Ft. Lauderdale. For details, contact Paul Esposito @954-290-7045 or paul_besttravel@bellsouth.net or Napoleon Zambrano @954-564-1996 or besttravel@bellsouth.net
1226 NE 4th AVE FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33304 954.761.1236
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Copyright © 2013 The Werks Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Werks, LeatherWerks, PaddleWerks, Lifestyle Club, BootWerks and “Where Leather is a Lifestyle” are Registered Trademarks of The Werks Company, LLC
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