Agenda Florida Edition Issue 246 by Multi-Media Platforms

BROWARD JUDGE SIDES WITH SAME-SEX MARRIAGE

FLORIDAAGENDA.COM

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AUGUST

2014

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ISSUE

246

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FT LAUDERDALE • JACKSONVILLE • KEY WEST

MIAMI • ORLANDO • TAMPA / ST PETERSBURG

SPECIAL REPORT

Page 12

A ROYAL RETURN: MISS FLORIDA F.I.

Page 9

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ACLU: No ’Legitimate Purpose’ for Gay Marriage Ban

middle-class existence in which most women stayed within traditional roles. Some of his judicial writing, Justice Ginsburg once wrote in dissent, reflected “ancient notions about women’s place in the family.” But Justice Kennedy, 78, has long had gay friends, and his legal philosophy is characterized by an expansive commitment to individual liberty.” [The New York Times]

Wisconsin voters amended the state constitution in 2006 to ban gay marriage, instead offering a domestic registry. Most same-sex couples say that while the registry offers some legal protections, it falls far short of protections and benefits of full marriage. The ACLU filed its lawsuit challenging the ban in February. Crabb ruled in June that the ban deprives gay couples of their due process and equal protection rights. More than 500 same-sex couples married in Wisconsin in the week between Crabb’s decision and her order to halt the marriages pending Van Hollen’s appeal.

Wisconsin Department of Justice attorneys filed a brief with the 7th Circuit late last month arguing there’s no fundamental right to gay marriage. Crabb’s ruling essentially created a new right that would dramatically expand federal authority into a realm traditionally controlled by the states, they said. Gay marriage is legal in 19 states as well as the District of Columbia. Gay marriage advocates have won more than 20 court victories across the country since the U.S. Supreme Court in 2013 struck down a portion of the federal Defense of Marriage Act that prohibited the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriage.

ney General J.B. Van Hollen have asked the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to reverse Crabb’s ruling. The court has consolidated the case with a similar appeal from Indiana state attorneys; oral arguments are set for Aug. 26 in Chicago. “By withholding from them the respect, recognition, and support that only marriage confers, Wisconsin stigmatizes these couples and their families as unworthy of the opportunity to express and legally embody their commitment in the most profound way that society provides,” ACLU attorneys wrote in their brief, according to the Associated Press.

Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

STEVE PETTEWAY / COLLECTION OF THE U.S. SUPREME COURT

URHAM, NC--Speaking before an audience at Duke University School of Law, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg welcomed the court’s recent embrace of gay rights, telling the law school last week that in the past few years, the high court has used lofty language about the bedrock values of “liberty and equality” and “equal dignity” when it comes to same-sex marriage, relationship, and family issues. According to a report in the New York Times, Ginsburg is less enthusiastic about the Supreme Court’s recent history with gender issues, including equal pay, abortion and contraception, and medical and family leave. The high court, and especially its current all-male five-justice conservative majority, has never fully embraced “the ability of women to decide for themselves what their destiny will be,” Ginsburg told her audience. The conservative wing has especially “ventured into a minefield” with its Hobby Lobby ruling, positing, “What of the employer whose religious faith teaches that it’s sinful to employ a single woman without her father’s consent or a married woman without her husband’s consent?” Reporter Adam Liptak at The New York Times, hazarded an explanation: “Many forces are contributing to this divide, but the most powerful is the role of Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, the court’s swing vote,” Liptak wrote. “Legal scholars say his jurisprudence is marked by both libertarian and paternalistic impulses, ones that have bolstered gay rights and dealt setbacks to women’s groups.... “Justice Kennedy is the product of a placid

August 6, 2014

MADISON, WI--The ACLU argued last Monday in the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that Wisconsin’s gay marriage ban denies same-sex couples legal protections and serves no legitimate government purpose. The ACLU was pressing the court to preserve a ruling decided this summer by Judge Barbara Crabb. State attorneys under the stewardship of Republican Attor-

JUSTICE RUTH BADER GINSBURG ON GAY RIGHTS AND SAME-SEX MARRIAGE

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CLEVELAND, OH—The 2014 Gay Games presented by the Cleveland Foundation is one of the most inclusive sports and cultural festivals in the world and comes to Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, August 9 through August 16. More than 35 sports and culture events will be held, with more than 30,000 people from more than 50 countries expected to visit the region, including 11,000 competitors in such events as bodybuilding (August 12), DanceSport (August 11-15), Figure Skating (August 12-14), Rodeo (August 10-11) and Pink Flamingo, water drag (August 13). Gold medal winning Olympic Diver Greg Louganis will make a special appearance at the Opening Ceremony which will feature a performance by Broadway star Andrea McArdle and “Glee’s” Alex Newell. Singer Lance Bass will also Greg make an Louganis appearance.

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Gay Games to Start Aug. 9

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NATION

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SUNSHINE STATE Palm Beach Judge Rules Ban on Same-Sex Is Unconstitutional PALM BEACH--Mirroring recent rulings from judges in three South Florida counties, a Palm Beach County Circuit judge Diana Lewis declared that Florida’s ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional. As opposed to the other cases involving the ability to marry or divorce, Judge Lewis’ case was brought about because of a death. When Florida property owner Frank Bangor married W. Jason Simpson in Delaware, he was not thinking about his death. Now spouse Simpson certainly is. Under Florida law, a spouse is recognized as a personal representative of an estate provided the out-of-state marriage is recognized as valid under state law. Simpson, through attorney Andrew Fein, petitioned Lewis to be recognized as Bangor’s personal representative despite a ban on gay marriage in Florida.

August 6, 2014

KEVIN MILLER

BROWARD COUNTY JUDGE SIDES WITH SAME-SEX MARRIAGE

IAMI—Make that three judges that have now overturned Florida’s ban on same-sex marriages. The ruling by Broward County Circuit Judge Dale Cohen emulates decisions made last month by judges in Monroe and Miami-Dade counties. In each case, the judges found that a 2008 voter-approved constitutional amendment banning gay marriage in the state violates gay residents’ right to equal protection under the law “The tides are turning on the issue of same-sex marriage throughout this country,” Cohen wrote. “To discriminate based on sexual orientation, to deny families equality, to stigmatize children and spouses, to hold some couples less worthy of legal benefits than others based on their sexual orientation, to deny individuals tax credits, marital property rights, the ability to dissolve their unions from other jurisdictions is against all that this country holds dear, as it denies equal citizenship. Marriage is a well-recognized fundamental right, all people should be entitled to enjoy its benefits.” At press time, Republican State Attorney General Pam Bondi is expected to file a notice of appeal,

just as she has in the cases in Monroe and MiamiDade cases. No marriage licenses will be issued for gay couples in any of the three counties, pending appeals. Unlike the other two cases brought in Monroe and Miami-Dade counties where same-sex couples were seeking to be marriage, the case in Broward county involves a divorce. Heather Brassner, who wants to dissolve a civil union with an estranged partner in Vermont in 2002, petitioned for divorce in Broward County. Because Florida does not recognize same-sex marriages or civil unions, Cohen was unable to do so. Gay-marriage opponents have said the rulings overturning the same-sex marriage ban would disenfranchise nearly 5 million voters in the state — the 62 percent who approved it. Repealing the amendment would require at least 60 percent support. Republican Gov. Rick Scott has said he supports the gay-marriage ban amendment but opposes discrimination. His top Democratic challenger, former Gov. Charlie Crist, supports efforts to overturn the ban.

NEW HOME FOR AGENDA & GUY MAGAZINE FORT LAUDERDALE—Effective immediately, Multimedia Platforms LLC, publisher of the Agenda newspaper, Guy Magazine, as well as floridaagenda.com and guymag.net, will be moving its corporate headquarters to 2929 East Commercial Blvd, Penthouse D, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308-4239. All functions of the corporation, including editorial, advertising, graphic design, Internet services, marketing and event planning will be housed at the complex. It will also become the new home for the Brian Neal Fitness and Health Foundation. Founding partner Bobby Blair announced his excitement at the move, adding that it is the latest reflection of the growth that the publishing platform has seen in the last ten months. “At a time when many print publications are dying or being transformed solely to on-line editions, we, at MMP, are proud of our continued growth in a very competitive marketplace. The expansion is reflected in the all new Agenda newspaper with comprehensive distribution throughout the entire state of Florida, with additional states currently being examined for future growth potential.” Multimedia Platforms LLC in conjunction with its investment partners TBG Holdings is currently preparing to launch an IPO stock offering in September, 2014.

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MISS FLORIDA F.I. 2014: A ROYAL RETURN

August 6, 2014

The current owners of the event are all locally known professionals with accomplished creditials: Alyson Thomas, a seasoned professional in the art form of female impersonation herself for 40 years, brings professionalism, style, stability, and experience to the pageant. Having helped many who have gone on to become national titleholders, Alyson has traveled Victoria Michaels throughout the country as a leading promoter and supporter of the event, and is a hands-on experience in the Florida market includes owner with an eye for detail. media and editorial experience, an experiScott Holland, whose knowledge and enced judge to many pageantry systems, pageant coordinator, public relations, professionalism, experience and a love for entertainment. Victor Zepka and Gary Santis who have owned the pageant for the last 15 years stay on as owners to keep the history of the system alive. They bring 15 years of hands on working knowledge of the system, and the experience that’s makes Miss Florida F.I. rich in history, and memories. Victor brings long standing established relationships with sponsors, vendors and local business and community leaders to the pageant. Gary continues to create amazing sets, outrageous productions, state of the art sound and lighting, The event is next Monday, August 11, 2014 at the Deauville Beach Resort in Miami Beach starting at 8pm with a VIP cocktail reception at 7pm. To purchase tickets go to MissFloridaFIPageant.com or call Scott Holland at Déja Devonier 954-478-4587.

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Broward County Board of Commissioners. Her advocacy insured that all transgender individuals would have protection against hate crimes and anti-discrimination laws in the work place. The board voted unanimously in favor of transgender rights. The pageant was started in 1972 by Keith Landon and Rene Rodriguez. This year’s pageant will offer a diverse mix of the old rich history and fond memories as the show pays tribute to former Miss Florida F.I. who will participate in the show. Miss Florida F.I. Pageant 2014 opens Monday evening at 7pm with a celebratory gathering at the Deauville Hotel lobby bar with a Silver Anniversary soiree honoring former Miss Florida F.I. 1988 Lakishah Lucky.

DARIO KRAKOWER

Velvet Lenore

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iami FL – After a seven year hiatus, the Miss Florida Female Impersonator pageant returns to Miami on Monday, August 11 at the Deauville Beach Resort, 6701 Collins Avenue, in Miami Beach. Previously, the pageant was nicknamed “The Social Event of the Season” attracting some of the top-named female impersonators and entertainment personalities from across the US. Judges for this year’s event include Latrice Royale of Ru Paul’s Drag Race Season 4 and All Stars, Venezuelan-born fashion designer Rafael Cennamo, and make-up artist Ronny Anuzzkka. The current Miss Florida F.I., Victoria Michaels, told Guy Magazine, “My reign as your distinguished Miss Florida F.I. has been the longest in the Florida pageantry history, and it’s been my distinct honor and unequivocal privilege to have held this coveted title over the years. Many talented entertainers aspire to reign as a Miss Florida for one year, so for me to have carried this envied Miss Florida crown for seven years has been more than I ever imagined and it’s been a true blessing that I will cherish forever.” Using the Miss Florida F.I. win as a launching platform, in 2008 Victoria joined a coalition force in cooperation with TERI (Transgender Equal Rights Initiative), Equality Florida, and activist Michael Rajner to stand before the

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AS I SEE IT August 6, 2014 • ISSUE 246

BY RICHARD HACK

Now What Is Rick Scott Hiding?

August 6, 2014

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here’s something strange that happens to politicians once they get into public office. The grand promises made to get them elected suddenly become unfulfilled dreams. The blame, they say, lies with the legislature through which all acts and laws must flow. That much we can all understand having seen the current do-nothing Congress spit and fight amongst themselves to the point that the U.S. government has become a do-nothing mockery of its former self. We’re faced with the same sort of excuse mongering in Florida, where we have a governor who refuses to answer questions about equal rights and same-sex marriages, repeatedly sidestepping the issue by drawing attention to recent increases in new jobs in the state. The number being bantered around is 580,000. And, of course, Governor Rick Scott is using those figures as a soap box on which to glorify his success leading the state. Unfortunately, like most things political, the numbers are misleading and the credit is misplaced. Just as Charlie Crist got hurt by the national economic downturn when he was governor from 2007 to 2011, so too is Rick Scott benefitting from the economic rejuvenation. Florida is one state that takes much in the way of Federal funding and much of its ebb and flow is pegged to the nation as a whole. Where Gov. Scott is concerned, he pledged to bring 700,000 jobs into the state. On the surface 580,000 new jobs would seem like he’s made quite a bit of progress to the goal. What Scott fails to ever mention—and this is a good one—is that non-partisan economists at the Legislature’s Office of Economic and Demographic Research released a long-term analysis of Florida’s job

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market estimated that Florida would add 1.8 million jobs between 2010 and 2018, regardless of who was in the Governor’s mansion in Tallahassee. What is obvious is that while the Governor is busy dodging the subject of equal rights and his attorney general is appealing lawsuit after lawsuit in favor of same-sex marriage in the state, Gov. Scott had lowered taxes on businesses big and small. That lowered tax base has resulted in a drop in funding for public schools by $1.2 billion, while hiking tuition at public universities. It seems those special interest groups don’t fund themselves. In addition, Gov. Scott ick Scott failed to expand access to affordable health care coverage to 1.1 million working Floridians. This has cost Florida $51 billion and 70,000 jobs according to those in the know. And then there are those pesky scandals that see to follow those in political life. Gov. Scott’s Chief of Staff Adam Hollingsworth admitted he lied on his resume about his tenure at the University of Alabama, and then had conflict of interest issues when it was discov-

ered that the recently spearheaded $200 million project All Aboard Florida (linking Miami with Orlando Airport via rail) is owned by one of Hollingsworth former employers. It takes on especially suspicious meaning when cast in the shadow of Scott’s rejection of $2.4 billion in federal money for a high-speed rail project that would have eventually linked Miami, Orlando and Tampa. And let’s not forget that Scott’s original Chief of Staff, Steve MacNamara, resigned after a scandal surrounding his steering no-bid contracts to friends. And his Lieutenant Governor, Jennifer Carroll, who abruptly resigned after being questioned by federal agents about an illegal gambling scandal. Or Scott’s Education Commissioner, Tony Bennett, who resigned amid a growing scandal over policy changes he made while serving as schools superintendent in Indiana. Does this make Rick Scott a bad governor? Nope. But it certainly makes his dodging on the issue of equal rights for the LGBT community very suspicious. What else is he hiding…Until next week….

ALL MATERIAL in the Agenda is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the 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 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 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: 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 © 2014, Mutimedia Platforms LLC. All rights reserved.

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CLEARWATER AREA

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NEW

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August 6, 2014

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COVER STORY BY RICHARD HACK

GOV. RICK SCOTT INVESTIGATED BY THE FEDS

August 6, 2014

FACEBOOK

ALLAHASSEE—It was not a letter any governor likes to receive—especially the one from Florida, Rick Scott. United States Attorney General Eric Holder wrote to crack the ruler across Scott’s knuckles before promising, “We will not hesitate to use all tools and legal authorities at our disposal to fight against racial discrimination, to stand against disenfranchisement, and to safeguard the right of every eligible American to cast a ballot.” Apparently, Governor Scott’s past efforts to limit access to polling places and ultimately change the course of the election has been uncovered just in time to set the tone for the upcoming November elections. “I am deeply disturbed that during your tenure, your state has repeatedly added barriers to voting and restricted access to the polls.” More than just disturbed, Holder reminded Scott of the outcome of the suit Florida vs. United States. Overruling Florida laws, the court told Scott that the law threatened “a dramatic reduction in the form of voting that is disproportionately used by African-Americans” that would have made it “materially more difficult for some minority voters to cast a ballot under the benchmark law…” And before the word “rigging” can form in your minds, Holder also brought up an article that ran in January 2013 in the Orlando Sentinel. That report found that “at least 201,000 voters did not cast ballots on Election Day 2012 because they were discouraged by long lines at the polling places.” As if these charges were not damaging enough, Holder rubbed salt by writing, “I have grave concerns that there remains a troubling pattern in your state of measures that make it more difficult, not easier, for Floridians to vote. For example,” Holder continued, “as part of the same 2011 law, the state imposed rules on organizations that helped register individuals to vote that were, in the words of the Federal court, “’harsh,’ ‘impractical,’ ‘burdensome,’ and ‘unworkable’.” Holder upped the stakes with “more recently, the federal courts have concluded that in 2012, Florida violated the National Voter Registration Act of

Rick Scott

1993 (NVRA) by conducting a systematic program to purge voters from its voter registration rolls within the 90-day quiet period before an election for federal office. In doing so, Florida used inaccurate and unreliable voter verification procedures that harmed and confused voters.” Who knew that “Florida is one of just eleven states that continue to restrict voting rights even after a person has ser ed his or her sentence and is no longer on probation or parole=; and in 2011, you made it more difficult for individuals who have served their sentences to regain the right to vote by eliminating automatic restoration of rights for non-violent felons and requiring a five-year waiting period before felons convicted of non-violent crimes can apply to have their rights restored. “The justification for denying citizens’ voting right for life, especially after they have completed their sentence and made amends, are unpersuasive. On the contrary, there is evidence to suggest that offend-

ers whose voting rights are restored are significantly less likely to return to the criminal justice system,” Holder suggested. Then there was the 2013 directive from then-Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner that proclaimed that absentee ballots had to be returned to supervisors’ offices. “Many has expressed concern that this directive will significantly reduce the number of places to return an absentee ballot and will have a negative impact on citizens whose jobs, access to transportation, or addresses make it difficult to return ballots to supervisors’ offices which, especially in large counties, may be miles away.” The official Scott response is that the letter was politics as usual and made to favor likely opponent Charlie Crist. No acknowledgement that the facts were accurate. No apology for denying someone the opportunity to vote. Governor Scott is too busy suing Republican circuit court judges who dared to agree that same-sex marriage is a right. Florida deserves better.

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August 6, 2014

BY RICK KARLIN

CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN GLBT HIKING VACATIONS

or some people, a vacation means just one thing: relaxation. This column isn’t for them. These vacations are for the adventurer who believes that mountains were made for climbing, trails for being hiked, and that it’s not a vacation unless you are exhausted, and exhilarated at day’s end. Sure, you could join any old climbing or hiking expedition, but why not enjoy an adventure organized by and for the LGBT community? Even if the closest you’ve ever gotten to The Matterhorn, is the ride at Disneyland, the Swiss Alps were made for hiking. HE Travel/Alyson Adventures’ weeklong alpine excursion departs from the centuries-old village of Grindelwald to hike some of the best-known peaks (The Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau) and three glaciers. In addition to hiking, trains, trams and various lifts offer numerous options for scaling the peaks, making the trip comfortable for even beginning hikers. Optional add-ons include biking and paragliding. Spinning in a field of flowers, doing your best Julie Andrews impression is free. The next excursion is scheduled for July 4-11, 2015. The trip, priced at $3,098, includes seven nights lodging in a shared or single room, with private bath; six-day pass that covers most area trains, buses and lifts breakfasts, an openingnight reception, orientation, and dinner,

There are a number of LGBT organizations to help train for a mountain climb or strenuous hike.

COURTESY OF HE TRAVEL

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18 August 6, 2014

TRAVEL

two additional dinners; a beer-tasting and closing-night dinner. Other hiking and adventure tours from HE Travel/Alyson Adventures include hiking trips in Antarctica (Jan. 7-16, and Feb. 3-13, 2015 for $9950), Easter Island (July 17-22, 2015 for $2,698), the Galapagos Islands (July 1-8, 2015 for $4,998) and Iceland (Aug. 9-16, 2015 for $4,198). For more information, go to www. hetravel.com. Out Travel can take you to Africa to climb the slopes of famed Mount Kilimanjaro. The eight-day trip follows the Lemosho Route, which ascends slowly, making it easier to acclimatize to the altitude. The trip starts in Tanzania with a day of an orientation to the climb before the six-day adventure begins. Days consist of hiking from early morning until mid-afternoon, then settling in camps for the night. After hiking through Hans Meyer Cave

Alpenglow: Gay Hiking in Switzerland

and Gilman’s Point the party will reach the summit point of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak (no “Star Trek” jokes, please), with an optional excursion to the crater floor. The party then descends to Mweka Camp for its final overnight on the mountain, followed by transportation back to the hotel and a farewell dinner. The nine-day excursion offers two departure dates; Jan. 28, and Feb. 10, 2015 and costs $3,149. Included in the excursion price are arrival and departure transfers, two nights at Arusha Lodge, meals on the climb, mountain guides, crater excursion, camping supplies and meals during the hike. An added bonus, also included in the trip’s cost, is a travel insurance package covering medical, trip interruption and baggage loss. Out Travel also offers hiking trips to Patagonia and Nepal. The hike up the Andes to Patagonia is a 15-day excursion, departing from Buenos Aires on Jan. 3,

2015 for $3,999. The Himalayan climb in Nepal is an 11-day excursion. It begins in Kathmandu, followed by a week’s hike to Ama Dablam Base Camp on Mount Everest. Cost for the excursion is $2,699, with departures on Oct. 4, 2014 and Feb. 21 and Oct. 10, 2015. For more information, go to http://www.out-adventures.com/. All prices quoted are for the excursion alone and do not include airfare to the destination. While these trips may sound charming, you need to truthfully assess whether hiking and mountain climbing vacations are right for you. Most of the excursions, while not technically difficult, are strenuous and require hikers to be in good physical and aerobic condition. There are a number of LGBT organizations to help train for a mountain climb or strenuous hike. Contact http://www. gayoutdoors.org/ or http://www.gay-hike. com/ for more information.

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22 August 6, 2014

HEALTH BY TOM BONANTI

PUT SOME PUNCH INTO YOUR WORKOUTS!

orking out with weights and doing regular cardio need to be a part of everyone’s life. In addition, if you can find a sport that is challenging and fun, something which you can do regularly with others, then you are sure to take your fitness to a higher level! Without a doubt, boxing is a very masculine sport. But beyond the machismo, the combination of working the cardiovascular system, along with strength and endurance training add up to deliver a powerful workout package. You may not have the time to train like a Holyfield and you may not have access to all of the accouterments like gloves and a boxing ring, but you can still get started easily. All you need is a jump rope, a speed bag, and a good heavy punching bag (a sturdy laundry bag filled with sand, sawdust and rags will do). A basement, garage or empty guestroom should give you enough space. A great way to get started with a boxing routine is to find a partner. Next, be sure to warm up together by doing pre-workout stretches especially for shoulders, back and legs. Start your workout with a circuit training approach where you move quickly from one station to the next. Employ calisthenics like push-ups, pull-ups and crunches, as well as light to moderate weights. Shoulder dumbbell presses as well as front and lateral dumbbell raises will pump

your shoulders. Dumbbell, or barbell bent-over rows are best for back. Nothing beats barbell squats and lunges for legs. This workout should take a half hour. And now, let’s go on to your boxing routine. Wearing heavy gloves (boxing gloves or even heavy duty workout gloves should do), start by throwing moderate punches at the heavy bag. Make sure your hand does not turn. You don’t want to strain or break the wrist. Alternating with your partner a few sessions, turn up the heat and hit the bag with more force. Try working up to three minutes of non-stop heavy hitting at a time and you’ll feel it. Now try jumping the rope. This will help you build rhythm, co-ordination and stamina. Jumping rope is a great form of cardio that will help you melt away body fat. The speed bag is the one that hangs from a platform and springs right back at you when you strike it. A speed bag allows the user to develop hand rhythm and hand/eye co-ordination, along with endurance capabilities. Practice hitting the speed bag, until you get used to its feel. These exercises should be performed for three minutes each and then repeated. Eventually work up to fiveminute cycles of punching bag, jumping rope, and speed bag. After you and your partner have completed the circuit twice, move to an area large enough for some action. Put on the gloves with

your partner and begin a block/sparring session. One is the aggressor; the other guy blocks the punches. The aggressor should throw the punches at 80 percent speed, without trying hard to connect, and the defender only blocks the punches, with

no return blows thrown. Switch roles after a couple of minutes. This provides good basic training in how to punch and how to defend against a punch. This will give you the feeling of how an actual fight unfolds. Be careful to avoid actual head

blows and wear a mouthpiece for protection just in case. Contact trainertomb@aol. com with all of your fitness questions. Check out www. pumpnincgym.com and call Tom (954) 557-1119 to schedule a free intake today.

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BY CHEF JEAN DOHERTY

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SEA BREAM OVEN BAKED

RECIPE

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SUBMITTED PHOTO

lthough I cook most of the week in my kitchen, I still love to cook at home, especially for friends and family. Before we opened the restaurant, we would have a dinner party at least once a week. For me, entertaining at home is about spending time with my guests. Therefore when I plan the menu, it has to be utterly delicious, yet very simple as I don’t want to spend the whole evening slaving in the kitchen. The following recipe is perfect for this style of dining. Sea bream has a succulent, meaty flavor and is one of my favorite fish when cooked this way. Cooking a whole fish intensifies the flavor. This comes from cooking the flesh on the bone, which always tastes better, just like meat.

Start with the sea bream, by filling the cavity with some salt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and herbs of your • 4 or 5 spring onions choice, perhaps a pinch of • 2 medium sized spuds cayenne pepper. Pour some of • 6 small tomatoes on the vine the olive oil and lemon juice over the fish and place more • 1 bok choy cut in half herbs on top, sprinkle with • 500g mushrooms sea salt and freshly ground • 1 jalapeño pepper pepper. While the sea bream is marinating, prepare the spuds, peel and chop into 1 inch cubes and cook on in a hot pan of olive oil, we just want them browned, they’ll finish in the oven. Do the mushrooms too. Then arrange all the veggies around the fish, as in the photo. Set the oven at 430 degrees. Bake from 20 minutes to half an hour, depending on the size of the fish. Sit back, relax and enjoy a glass of wine. You are a chef. • 2 whole sea bream, gutted and scaled approx. 500g each

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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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The Week 8/7-8/13

THE WEEK

August 6, 2014

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BY PATRICK ROBERT

Pageantry, Lobster, and Kink Galore Jared Leto and Thirty Seconds to Mars at Carnivores Tour August 8th, at the Cruzan Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach

8/7

8/8

Key West Lobsterfest

Carnivores Tour Palm Beach

The season many seafood aficionados have waited for all year has finally arrived—lobster season. Key West kicks off the season with its annual weekend long Lobsterfest. This year’s festivities begin with the Key West Lobster Boil. Each guest will receive over a pound of the boil including lobster, shrimp, Andouille sausage, crawfish, sweet corn on the cob, and new potatoes. Live entertainment and drink specials make this a night to remember. Other events for the weekend include a Lobsterfest Duval Crawl, a street fair, and a lobster brunch. 5 p.m. Sunset Tiki Bar and Grille. 617 Front Street. Key West. 33040.

Despite the name Carnivores Tour, vegetarians and vegans are still welcomed to attend. Though it’s unlikely there are many vegetarian or vegan fans of headliner Linkin Park, considering that they’re mostly known for their melding of nu metal and rap metal. Linkin Park gained fame in 2000 when their debut album “Hybrid Theory” became the best-selling album of the year. Since then they have experimented with other genres but remained firmly in touch with their hard rock roots. The other band on the tour is Jared Leto’s band, also known as Thirty Seconds to Mars. After his Oscar win, he is back to his passion—the stage. Thirty Seconds to Mars is acclaimed for their energetic and innovative performances. 6:30 p.m. Cruzan Amphitheatre. 601-7 Sansburys Way. West Palm Beach. 33411.

Erotica: Summer Heat St. Petersburg The Erotica Party is back! Supermega-porn-star Michael Brandon hosts this year’s edition, titled “Summer Heat.” Alongside Mr. Brandon will be the very attractive Hans Berlin. The weekend includes such events as meet and greets, pool parties, fetish demos, shadow dancing, photo-ops, erotic drag shows, an Andrew Christian underwear contest, and more. Come and celebrate the many offerings of the porn industry with this annual event at the Flamingo Resort. Various Times. The Flamingo Resort. 4601 34th St. S. St. Petersburg. 33711.

To have your event listed, please email editor@floridaagenda.com

Decades Party Orlando

The fetish and kink community celebrates another event over at the Norm. Fetish attire is required to take part in this night in honor of the BDSM community of Jacksonville. International grassroots movement Mr. Friendly will have a table at this event. Mr. Friendly assists organizations and individuals worldwide to help them fight the stigma of HIV, help them minimize further transmissions, and help them raise funds to maximize the quality of life for those living with HIV. Come out and support this great cause while enjoying the perks of BDSM culture. 9 p.m. The Norm. 2952 Roosevelt Blvd. Jacksonville. 32205.

8/12

Video Barracks Party Orlando 8/11

Miss Florida F.I. Pageant 2014 Miami As the real Miss America pageant loses some of its influence (thanks feminism!), female impersonator pageants, such as this one, continue to grow in popularity. The Miss Florida F.I. Pageant has been around since 1972. This year’s competition will draw heavily on both the history of the pageant and its promising future. The reigning Miss Florida F.I., Victoria Michaels, will be relinquishing her crown to the competitor who best

Stonewall Bar Orlando hopes to bring to Central Florida the pride of Stonewall Inn in New York City. Three blocks from the Amway Center, this neighborhood bar offers gated parking, multiple rooms, and various drink specials. Tonight is the Video Barracks Party with 2-4-1 drinks and high-energy club and circuit music videos playing from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Free Texas Hold-Em Poker starts at 7 p.m. The patio hosts a weekly YouTube Tuesdays contest in which participants play funny YouTube videos with guests voting on the best ones. Stonewall Bar Orlando offers a Tuesday

night for everyone. 7 p.m. Stonewall Bar Orlando. 741 W. Church St. Orlando. 32805.

8/13

Trivia with Doug Bouser Orlando Hamburger Mary’s doesn’t just offer delicious food at reasonable prices, they also host multiple events scattered throughout the week. Wednesday nights are for the brainiacs among the scene, as Doug Bouser hosts a trivia night. Different tables of teams compete for the right to call themselves the greatest owners of useless knowledge in the metropolitan gay scene area. These talented guests will also win various prizes. Such an intense activity is deserving of a drink special, and Hamburger Mary’s offers just that—2-4-1 cocktails until closing. Come out and flex your own trivia knowledge prowess. 7 p.m. Hamburger Mary’s. 110 W Church St. Orlando. 32801.

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Kink Jacksonville

exemplifies poise, grace, and talent. The event takes place at the beautiful Deauville Beach Resort on Collins Ave. 8 p.m. Deauville Beach Resort. 6701 Collins Ave. Miami. 33141.

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Two major things have happened to Parliament House in the past month: they celebrated their 39th anniversary and also filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing over 15.5 million in debt. Despite this dispiriting news, the party continues at Orlando’s renowned establishment. Tonight, Parliament House hosts a Decades party. The elaborate bar and club will feature music from the 1980s, 1990s, and today. At 10 p.m. and 12 a.m. the footlight players put on an “Anthems Show.” Best of all, the proceeds will help fundraise Come Out Pride Orlando. 8 p.m. Parliament House. 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail. Orlando. 32805.

garden, around the same time, was riding the alternative music scene’s gravy train, with their popular album “Superunknown.” These two bands have had rabid followings ever since and team up for a concert that is sure to be as intense as their music. Cruzan Amphitheatre. 601-7 Sansburys Way. West Palm Beach. 33411.

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8/9

8/10

Nine Inch Nails/Soundgarden West Palm Beach

Decades Party, Orlando (8/9)

August 6, 2014

Founded by Academy Award winner Trent Reznor, Nine Inch Nails came to prominence in the 1990s with their dark, controversial video “Closer.” The album “The Downward Spiral” became a commercial success and catapulted Nine Inch Nails into worldwide fame. Sound-

August 6, 2014

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DINING BY RICHARD DAVID CHAMBERLAIN

AMC DINE-IN THEATRES 3401 NE 26TH AVE, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33306 954-566-9666

August 6, 2014

Blackened Salmon ($14.99) for those who like to go meat free. And for those throwing calorie caution to the wind, choose Chicken Alfredo ($12.49). In this case, the chicken breast is grilled and placed atop a broad pappardelle noodle tossed with a creamily thick Alfredo sauce and bruschetta mix, accompanied by a hot soft pretzel breadstick. A lot of food, but oh so good. The Smoked Brisket Quesadilla ($10.99) features two large flour tortillas jammed full of sliced brisket, Kansas-style barbeque sauce, crispy fried onions amid melted Cheddar Jack cheese. This unusual concoction is a filling winner, and served with sour cream and barbeque sauce. For lighter fare, we recommend the Applewood Smoked-Bacon BLT ($10.49), hearty sandwich featuring thickly sliced bacon with lettuce and tomato, held together with Parmesan peppercorn aioli smeared on Texas toast. Like all the theatre sandwiches, there is a side of housemade ripple chips. Onion rings cost 99¢ and are worth the cash. The best deal in the houses may easily be the Steakhouse Prime Rib Big Burger ($12.99). Before you scream “ouch,” this is a half-pound Angus beef burger piled high with sliced prime rib, topped with crispy onion straws, melted Swiss cheese, tomato, lettuce, and some of that Parmesan peppercorn aioli. It’s a mouthful and then some. A meal in a bun. For dessert, head straight to the Warm Brownie Sundae ($7.99). The brownie is warm and gooey (just the way you like it) with a huge scoop of vanilla ice cream. And it’s big enough to share. Of course, there’s Hot Buttered Popcorn ($8.50). This is a movie theatre, let’s not forget. And it comes with a free refill! Yeah. The only negative is the freezing temperature of the theatre. Wish they had blankets, like they do in the dine-in Boca theatre. Here, just dress for winter and enjoy the show. It’s classy, tasty and entertaining. Go.

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t’s taken over two decades to come to town, but it was certainly well worth the wait. AMC Coral Ridge Theatres have undergone a top-to-bottom remodel that has turned it into Fort Lauderdale’s first Dine-In Theatre. It is a stunning transformation that makes the movie-going experience more than just entertainment. It is not officially a hot dining spot in town. Before we get to the menu, first things first. Yes, there’s a full bar and specialty drinks aplenty. Second, the seats are leather bound luxury. The lower number theatres are called Fork and Screen. The super-deluxe upper number screens are labeled Cinema Suites with full recline and in theater service. On the menu, there are Signature selections, salads, appetizers, entrees, quesadillas & tacos, sandwiches, pizzettos, flatbread melts, burgers, and desserts. Since we arrived in a large group, we were able to sample a variety from each. Of the salads, our favorite was Asian Chicken ($11.49) that comes with grilled chicken breast atop mixed greens, with crispy wonton strips, toasted almonds and a flavorful Asian vinaigrette dressing. It’s pricey but is served in a large bowl accompanied by a hot soft pretzel breadstick. You can’t go wrong with any of the appetizers, and a good way to try a few at once is the Wings & Things Sampler Platter ($13.49) which brings you four spicy buffalo wings (with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing to cool things down), flash fried mozzarella sticks (with a mild marinara sauce), a nice serving of crisp onion rings, and some terrific housemade ripple chips. Once again, it’s a huge platter that is made for sharing. Of the entrees, it’s again a toss-up of tastes. The Signature Tenderloin Tips ($15.99) mixes the tips of the title with caramelized onions and tossed in a red wine demi-glace that tastes as good as it sounds. Very tender, very fillings—especially with the mashed red bliss potatoes and steamed broccoli. The same sides come with an excellent

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AMC DINE-IN THEATRES

August 6, 2014

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SCREEN SAVOR BY GREGG SHAPIRO

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SCI-FI FIESTA

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“Guardians of the Galaxy” punched up with laughs. With the exception of Pratt, and maybe Saldana, Glenn Close (as peaceful ruler Minister Prime) and John C. Reilly (as cop Corpsman Dey), everyone else is practically (and digitally) unrecognizable. That means that comic book geeks and sci-fi fan-boys now have new (formerly neglected) heroes to drool over, as Peter and his misfit crew go about earning their names and titles. “Guardians of the Galaxy” gets off to a great start. If they can maintain that momentum, they may have a series strong enough to challenge and conquer some of the others.

must go through rigorous training (echoes of “The Hunger Games”). As she rises through the ranks and proves herself to naysayers such as leader Eric (Jai Courtney) and smug newbie Peter (Miles Teller), Tris also finds herself drawn to Four (the stunningly beautiful Theo James). And who wouldn’t be? But, of course, their attraction goes much deeper than just tattooed skin. Before long, the insidious subplot is revealed as Tris discovers Jeannine’s evil plans for domination. In between, there are messages about facing fears and loyalty that will have a familiar ring to audience members of all ages. At least 40 minutes too long, “Divergent” stuffs a lot of setup into its first installment. Ultimately, it suffers from a variety of ills, not the least of which is being derivative. Not only because of its countless similarities to “The Hunger Games” and other grim future flicks, but also because it feels like it owes a debt to other movies, such as the Jason Bourne series. Nevertheless, things may improve, as they did in “The Hunger Games” sequel “Catching Fire,” but we won’t know until next year when “Insurgent” is released. Blu-ray special features include a doc, a featurette, deleted scenes and audio commentary.

August 6, 2014

s dystopian Y/A sagas go, the movie version of “Divergent” (Summit), now available as a double disc Bluray/DVD/Digital HD combo pack, is no “Hunger Games.” Shailene Woodley is a decent actress, but she’s no Jennifer Lawrence and Woodley’s character, Tris, is no Katniss. Now that we got that out of the way, should you see the movie? Set some time in the future, 100 years after the war that left Chicago a mere shell of its former self (in other words, worse than what diminutive Mayor Emanuel has already devastated). Society has been broken down into factions.

The family of Beatrice (Woodley) – mother Natalie (Ashley Judd), father Andrew (Tony Goldwyn) and brother Caleb (Ansel Elgort), are members of the selfless Abnegation faction. In their mid-teens, Beatrice and Caleb are being sent for tests to determine whether they will remain in Abnegation, or choose another faction, such as the agricultural Amity, the truth-telling Candor, the daring protectors known as Dauntless, or the intellectually superior Erudite. As the saying goes, “faction before blood.” Wouldn’t you know it? During Beatrice’s testing the results are inconclusive leading to one determination. Beatrice is Divergent, a rare sub-faction that is hunted for its ability to combine all factions and is therefore considered dangerous. Leading the witch-hunt is Erudite icequeen Jeannine (a bleached blonde Kate Winslet), who also has her sights set on bringing down Abnegation, the faction currently in charge. Making matters worse, Beatrice and Caleb don’t select Abnegation during the choosing ceremony, seemingly wounding their parents. Caleb goes off and joins Erudite, while Beatrice surprises everyone by becoming Dauntless. But her transition, which includes taking the new name Tris, won’t be easy. She

COURTESY OF MARVEL

o you hate comic books? Does the mere thought of Comic-Con make you crazy? What about sci-fi? Does it make your skin crawl as if there were, perhaps, aliens living beneath it? Are you done with 3D? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then “Guardians of the Galaxy” (Marvel) is the movie for you. To begin with, it’s easily the best comedy of the summer. Yes, you read that right. “Guardians of the Galaxy” begins in 1988, when, following the death of his mother, young Peter (Wyatt Oleff) is abducted by an alien space craft (won’t spoil the reason why) and whisked off to a far-off galaxy. Twenty-six years later, still using his Walkman to listen to the mix-tape his mother made for him, Peter (a buff and nearly sexy Chris Pratt), aka Star-Lord, works for a band of thieves, led by Yonndu (Michael Rooker). On one mission, he steals a lethal orb containing a powerful and deadly Infinity Stone which also happens to be of interest to the ruthless Ronan (Lee Pace). The fate of the galaxy rests in whose hand the stone lands. Most of this sounds like pretty typical comic book/sci-fi setup. The good news is that “Guardians of the Galaxy” is worlds away from typical or predictable. Sure, it’s full of (mostly) cool special effects, a respectable amount of 3D trickery and fast-paced action. Perhaps the movie’s most special effect is the incredibly funny screenplay, cowritten by director James Gunn and Nicole Perlman. Like the strange and humorous characters who populate the movie, including mean green killing machine Gamora (Zoe Saldana), revved up raccoon Rocket (voiced by Bradley Cooper), shapeshifting tree being Groot (voiced by Vin Diesel) and muscle-bound and tattooed Drax (Dave Bautista), the screenplay doesn’t take itself too seriously. The comedy is out of this world. Even fight scenes are

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