Florida Agenda Issue 221 by Multi-Media Platforms

Fitness Man:

FLORIDAAGENDA.COM FEBRUARY 12, 2014 H ISSUE 221

Tips to Getting a Leaner Body Page 25

Page 11 U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder

A MARDI GRAS TEA CRUISE, BLONDIE & AN EQUALI-TEA DANCE page 12

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March 5-10, 2014 - Miami Beach, FL

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SUNSHINE STATE

COURTESY OF EQUALITY FLORIDA

Profile on One of the Six Couples Suing for Equality Airs

Equality Florida to Honor LGBT Ally at Miami Gala

Last week, Fusion aired an interview with one of the six couples who are slated to sue the state of Florida for current unconstitutional laws that keep them from marrying: Catherina Paret and Karla Arguello. The couple – who have been together for 14 years – claim they are just as boring as any other couple. They work, go to church and are currently raising their song Enzo. “We’re the most boring couple you could ever imagine,” admitted Catherina Pareto to Fusion. “Right now we’d probably be at church, on a Sunday morning. You know, our son is our priority. We have a busy work life; Karla is now a stayat-home mom. But there’s nothing that, in the eyes of the law, recognizes us as a family. And so, we wanted to fix that.” Since they’ve been together for so long, Pareto claims that they feel practically married, but they still want the official papers to prove it. “Like any other couple out there that has been together, we want to formalize our relationship with a marriage,” Arguello said. “That’s what anyone would like...Especially now that we have a son. Obviously, the laws haven’t always been in our favor, but now that it’s a potential possibility, we’re excited.”

Tallahassee, FL – At a March Gala hosted by Equality Florida in Miami, there will be a number of honored guests present, according to a recent brief from the non-profit themselves. At the annual Miami gala, Equality Florida will be honoring the six same-sex couples suing to marry in Florida, as well

as award-winning actress Sharon Gless. Gless, co-star of Queer As Folk and Hannah Free, Gless has been a longtime supporter of the LGBT community. “I am proud to add my voice to those who continue to fight for equal rights in Florida,” Gless said in a statement to Equality Florida last year. “I urge all Floridians to Get Engaged in the fight for marriage equality.” In addition to her leading role in Equality Florida’s Get Engaged campaign, Gless has also been vocal when it comes to LGBT equality; she

served as the Grand Marshal in the Miami Beach Pride parade, received the Gay Icon Award at Phildaelphia Qfest, the PFLAG Ally Award in Toronto, and was honored by LA’s Gay and Elder Housing as well as Norman Lear’s People for the American Way for her support of human rights. Gless and the six couples will all be presented with the Voice for Equality Award. For more information on the gala and to become a sponsor or purchase tickets, visit eqfl.org/miamigala.

PASSAGES IN MEMORY OF JOHN THOMAS FULLER

ohn Thomas Fuller, born December 22, 1970, passed away on Monday morning due to a massive heart attack. Originally from Chicago, Mr. Fuller worked at The Field Museum, Macy’s, and Robin’s Chiropractic Center to name a few. The youngest of six, Mr. Fuller was one the faces of the community in Wilton Manors. He frequented popular spots and was often described as kind and gentle. John is survived by his partner, “Big” Dewitte, who asks that any memorial donations be made to The Pet Project at petprojectforpets.org. A public memorial service to celebrate John’s life will be held at John’s favorite hangout, Scandals Saloon’s back patio, located at 3073 NE 6th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33334, on Saturday, February 15th from 2pm to 4pm.

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February 12, 2014

Six couples suing for equality and their attorney

NFL Prospect Proudly Comes Out of the Closet

KEVIN MILLER

Nevada’s Marriage Ban Defense Gets the Kibosh

Caron City, NV – Two of Nevada’s legal officials won’t be defending the state’s ban on same-sex marriage anymore, according to a statement made Monday. In the brief filed with the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of the Appeals, Nevada’s Democratic attorney general Catherine Cortez Masto says since the marriage equality case was first brought to the federal court in November of 2012, that “the legal landscape has changed.” Republican Governor Brian Sandoval signed on to the request to cease defense on the state’s ban. “After thoughtful review and analysis, the State has determined that its arguments grounded upon equal protection and due process are no longer sustainable,” Masto said in a statement acquired

February 12, 2014

New York, NY – Defensive lineman Michael Sam publicly revealed that he’s gay on Sunday, and is now set to possibly be the first openly gay player drafted by the NFL. “I came to tell the world I’m an openly proud gay man,” Sam said in an interview with ESPN. Last season Sam was a hit in college football, playing for the University of Missouri. He was named the top defensive player in the Southeastern Conference, and was identified by the teammates as the team’s most valuable player, according to CNN. With praises like these, the chances of Sam getting drafted are looking pretty good. “I understand how big this is,” said Sam to ESPN. “It’s a big deal. No one has done this before. And it’s kind of a nervous process, but I know what I want to be … I want to be a football player in the NFL.” In the interview with ESPN, he said that he told his teammates about his sexuality back in August of last year, and surprisingly enough, didn’t experience any negative feedback. “I just want to make sure I could tell my story the way I want to tell it,” Sam

said to The New York Times. “I just want to own my truth.” The NFL was quick to respond to Sam’s announcement via Twitter on Sunday: “We admire Sam’s honesty and courage. Michael is a football player. Any player with ability and determination can succeed in the NFL. We look forward to welcoming and supporting Michael Sam in 2014.”

Chevy Chase, MD – Pascal Tessier from Chevy Chase, Maryland, became the first “known” openly gay Eagle Scout – the highest ranked title available to a Boy Scout – following the acceptance of his badge Monday night. The 17-yearold is the first known openly gay scout to receive the award since the organization lifted its ban on gay members in May of last year (which just went into effect last month). “It’s just really amazing, and it

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COURTESY OF ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY.COM

Michael Sam

Teen Becomes First Openly Gay Eagle Scout

honestly hasn’t really sunk in yet,” Tessier told The Washington Post in an interview. “We didn’t know if it was going to happen at all.” But the recently lifted policy only applies to those under the age of 18, and unfortunately for Tessier, he will be of age in August. “It’s kind of a backhanded acceptance: ‘We accept you for now,’” he told the Post. “It says to you you’re a monster of some sort.” Tessier’s mother, Tracie Felker, also expressed a similar concern for the policy. “What no one really wants to talk about is the suggestion that gay adults are child abusers, and that is infuriating,” Felker said to the Post. “It’s impossible to believe that the crème de la crème of the Scouts, just because they turn 18, are no longer suitable to participate in the programs.” A formal ceremony for Tessier and his fellow Eagles will be held in June.

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by BuzzFeed on Monday. According to ThinkProgress, Masto also asked the court to rescind a brief made last month that defends the state’s discriminatory marriage policies. The brief likened same-sex marriage to bigamy and incest, labeling it “what marriage is not.”

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NATION

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EDITORIAL BY GRANT JAMES FEBRUARY 12, 2014 • ISSUE 221

Gay in the Locker Room: When the Fantasy Ends and the Discrimination Begins

February 12, 2014

hen it comes to admiring professional sports—and the athletes who play them, there are few, if any, who can hold a candle to me. This extends to a healthy imagination that includes, like a lot of gay men, the occasional daydream about postgametime in the locker room showers. Sadly, reality set in this week after what started off as a promising announcement by star athlete Michael Sam, the University of Missouri defensive end who became the first Division I football player to come out of the closet. Of course, speculation has been running rampant about Sam for some time now, but there’s no doubt Sam’s gesture was a brave one. Around this time last year, former Miami Dolphin player Brendon Ayanbadejo made news when he held a press conference at Kitchenetta restaurant on North Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale and stated that as many as four active NFL players who were in the closet were plotting their big gay escape from the closet. Ayanbadejo has since moved to California, and we’re still waiting for that NFL gay group photo op. If the responses to Sam’s self-outing this past week are any indication of what’s to come, then you have to ask who can blame them? On the “fan” side, social media posts and tweets were packed with venom that would have been more appropriate for the 19th Century than the 21st (though no less offensive). The gems that made their way to Twitter on February 10, the day of Sam’s announcement, ran from the light and harmless “I’m already tired of hearing about Michael Sam’s lust for d**k,” to the scrappy “So, message to Michael Sam and those like him: NOBODY WANTS TO HEAR ABOUT A MAN WHO LIKES TO SUCK C**K. GET BACK IN THE F***ING CLOSET.” Just when things are looking down, along comes New Orleans Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma, who told a league official, “Imagine if he’s the guy next to me and, you know, I get dressed, naked, taking a shower, the whole nine, and it just so happens he looks at me. How am I supposed to respond?”

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The whole...nine? This is the same Vilma who tweeted back in 2011, “Grown men should NOT hav [sic] female tendencies. Period.” I’m not saying that Vilma, or the narrow-minded fans who are polluting the Twittersphere aren’t entitled to their opinions or anything. Just...not in my shower.

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DOJ Announces New Federal Rights

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JUSTICE FOR GAYS

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COVER STORY

BY GRANT JAMES

for the country, where many states still have yet to legalize same-sex marriage. The new expansion helps to protect married couples in the 34 remaining states where same-sex marriage still hasn’t passed. For example, a couple who was married in New York can now file for bankruptcy in Florida, even though gay marriage itself isn’t legal in the state. “This landmark announcement will change the lives of countless committed gay and lesbian couples for the better,” said president of HRC, Chad Griffin. “While the immediate effect of these policy decisions is that all married gay couples will be treated equally under the law, the long-term effects are more profound. Today, our nation moves closer toward its ideals of equality and fairness for all.”

of key benefits programs its administers, such as the Radiation Exposure Compensation Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund,” said Holder in the statement. “Another key program is the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program. It provides death benefits and educational benefits to surviving spouses of public safety officers, such as law enforcement officers and firefighters, who suffer catastrophic or fatal injuries in the line-of-duty.” Holder’s policy memo also states that “It is the Department’s policy, to the extent federal law permits, to recognize lawful same-sex marriages as broadly as possible, and to recognize all marriages valid in the jurisdiction where the marriage was celebrated.” The policy change is a historic, monumental move

February 12, 2014

ashington, D.C. – U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder made history Saturday night when he announced at the Human Rights Campaign Greater New York Gala that the Obama administration was to extend a number of rights to married samesex couples, as well as partnered same-sex couples. Holder sympathized with the LGBT community during his speech at the gala, where he gave both pats on the back and hope for the future: “...You’ve stepped to the forefront of our national discourse, helping to mobilize millions to raise awareness about issues of concern to the LGBT community. You’ve spoken out for the rights and opportunities that have too often been denied to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals. You’re calling for policies that stabilize families and expand individual liberty. And you’re doing it all in a manner that is enduring; that is predicated on an understanding of our common humanity; and that is founded on the singular ideal that has defined this country since its earliest days; the notion that all are created equal – and that all are entitled to opportunity and equal justice under law...On Monday, I will issue a new policy memorandum that will – for the first time in history – formally instruct all Justice Department employees to give lawful same-sex marriages full and equal recognition, to the greatest extent possible under the law.” Holder announced that those married in a state/ city with marriage equality will now receive the same rights that opposite-sex couples do when testifying against spouses, declaring bankruptcy, and visiting correctional facilities to see their spouses. Couples are now eligible (the changes are already in effect) for a number of federal aid and benefits, which Holder went over in detail on Monday. “Beyond this, the Department will equally recognize same-sex couples for the purpose of a number

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The Week 2/12-2/19

THE WEEK

February 12, 2014

A Mardi Gras Tea Cruise, Blondie and an Equali-Tea Dance War Horse February 13th at Kravis Center

THURSDAY 2/13

FRIDAY 2/14

War Horse

A Dark Valentine’s Day

This multiple award-winning play contains some of the most beautiful set-design in theaters. Its other highlight lies in the innovative puppetry of the central horse-figure. The plot really is just about some horse that goes off to war, and the boy who loves him, and although the trajectory of the horse’s life is rather tedious, the visuals more than make up for this predictable plotline. There also is an incredible connection created through the horse and boy that speaks to animal lovers everywhere. 8 p.m. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, 33401.

Valentine’s Day is the day to celebrate your greatest achievement: acquiring a worthy lover. As Facebook posts across America can attest, the most important aspect of a human’s self-esteem stems from a romantic relationship (or a baby). If you have not quite been able to find that special someone, though, a dark, morbid celebration might just be the right activity on this controversial Hallmark holiday. We foresee that during the ‘Dark Day,’ you hide underneath the covers, block all Facebook posts of couples on dates, and read Cathy comic strips until you have no tears left. A bottle of Nyquil and some leftover

Vicodin from your wisdom tooth surgery will allow the day and night to pass faster than you can say, “It’s just that I’m pickkkyyy…..” All day at your house/somewhere in South Florida.

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

PHOTO BY MIKE PREVATT

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BY PATRICK ROBERT

Dance, drink, and support our equality all at the same time! 2 p.m. Royal Palms Resort and Spa. 717 Breakers Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33304.

Mardi Gras Tea Cruise

SATURDAY 2/15

Blondie

9 Mile Music Festival

SUNDAY 2/16

Equality Florida Equali-Tea Dance The tea dance is one of those strange elements of gay culture without much rhyme or reason. Although Fort Lauderdale hasn’t had a significant tea-dance event for some time, Equali-Tea Florida is hosting a benefit tea dance at The Royal Palms Resort and Spa for a fun afternoon of relaxing by the pool, dancing to the music, drink specials, raffles, and a short program about the work of Equality Florida (if you don’t know, a major gay rights organization who, currently, is working to get us marriage rights in Florida).

Boardwalk (performing under the name MALE2MALE), so there’s no need to play favorites! Limited tickets are available for purchase at gayteacruisesfl.org, so act now. Boarding begins at 4 p.m. Riverwalk South (Smoker Park). 540 SE 5th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33301.

MONDAY 2/17

Figure Skating Through Oppression With the Winter Olympics in its final week, the competition really heats up with tonight’s ice dancing final, followed by Thursday’s premiere moment: ladies figures

Wine Tasting at a Murder Mystery Bookstore In the past wine tastings may be the thing of the highfalutin’, but nowadays it’s a natural part of contemporary urban society. At Delray Beach’s Murder on the Beach Bookstore both old wines and new wines are on display as radio celebrity, author, and wine expert Mike Spivak drinks and discusses. Old wine usually comes from France, Italy and Germany, while younger consumers most likely have enjoyed wine from California, New Zealand, Australia, and Chile. Explore these two distinct styles while enjoys some hors d’oeuvres. 6:30 p.m. Murder on the Beach Bookstore. 273 Pineapple Grove Way, Delray Beach.

WEDNESDAY 2/19

Trisha Yearwood The country singer and ultimate diva has made a career out of multiple powerhouse hits, including “She’s in Love With the Boy,” “Wrong Side of Memphis,” “XZXX’s and OOO’s (An American Girl),” “Walkaway Joe,” and “How do I Live”. Tonight at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts her formidable talent is on display as she belts out these perennial favorites. 8 p.m. Broward Center for the Performing Arts. 201 SW Fifth Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33312.

Remember crazy Lauryn Hill— critically acclaimed singer who never wanted white people to buy her album? She will be on hand

Mardi Gras Tea Cruise (2/16)

TUESDAY 2/18

February 12, 2014

Deborah Harry takes some time off starring in YouTube videos with John Roberts to come back to her first and greatest love: singing in the new-wave band Blondie. Known for their infection mix of disco, pop, rap and reggae, Blondie had several hits in the early 1980s, including the rap/pop fusion “Rapture” and American Gigolo theme song “Call Me”. After taking a rather long hiatus, Blondie returned in 1997 with hit song “Maria”. The still-active band releases another cd this year, titled Ghosts of Download. The concert tonight at the Fountainebleau includes a 6pm dinner. 8 p.m. (dinner begins at 6 p.m.) Fountainebleau Miami Beach. 4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 33140.

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If a tea cruise is more your speed, head down to the Mardi Gras Tea Cruise for an evening of music, entertainment, and of course, beads! Kitty Meow hosts this three-hour-tour, so expect equal parts laughter and mayhem, with sounds by local favorite Maximus 3000. Deja Devonier is also slated to take the stage, as well as dancers from both Johnny’s and

skating. This year, America’s best hope in the figure skating event is ice dancing. The indisputable favorites for gold, Meryl Davis and Charlie White, won silver in 2010 and have been sweeping international competitions since. It would be the first gold for the United States in Olympic ice dancing. Finally, ice skating queens in America will be able to relax. If you’re not protesting the event, tune into NBC at 8 p.m. to support.

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Of course, there’s also a possibility that you actually do have a lover, and then maybe a night out listening to one of the most romantic singers of all time could spark those old loving emotions. Bocelli is so profoundly emotional and soulful that he’s actually blind—all he sees is love, everywhere. This classic Italian tenor is known for bringing classical music to the masses and making people everywhere understand “culture” on a whole new level. Bocelli combines famous opera arias with pop songs like “September Mom” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” The prolific artist released the love-song CD Amore and followed it with Under the Desert Sky, featuring live versions of many of the same songs. 8 p.m. BB&T Center. 2555 NW 136th Ave, Sunrise, 33323.

at the 9 Mile Music Festival, an all-day event honoring the life and philosophy of the legendary reggae star, Bob Marley. This festival also has a humanitarian bent to it, having collected and donated over three million cans of food to hunger projects internationally. Canned food collected at admission will benefit Curley’s House, a food bank that provides bulk food products to thousands of needy families and the homeless throughout Miami-Dade County. Come support the needy, honor Bob Marley, and stop worrying… be happy. 12:30 p.m. Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds. 10901 SW 24th Street, Miami, 33165.

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Andrea Bocelli

February 12, 2014

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February 12, 2014

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30) VILLAGE PUB 2283 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors

29) TROPICS 2000 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors

28) TORPEDO 2829 W Broward Blvd Fort Lauderdale

27) 13 I EVEN 2037 Wilton Dr Wilton Manors

26) THE STABLE 205 E Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale

25) THE DRIVE 2390 Wilton Dr Wilton Manors

24) SMARTY PANTS 2400 E Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale

23) SIDELINES 2031 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors

22) SCANDALS SALOON 3073 NE 6th Ave Wilton Manors

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15) MONKEY BUSINESS 2740 N Andrews Ave Fort Lauderdale

14) MONA’S 502 E Sunrise Blvd Fort Lauderdale

13) THE MANOR COMPLEX 2345 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors

12) LIPS 1421 E Oakland Park Blvd Oakland Park

11) LE PATIO 2401 NE 11th Ave Wilton Manors

10) JOHNNY’S 1116 W Broward Blvd Fort Lauderdale

9) INFINITY LOUNGE 2184 WIlton Drive Wilton Manors

8) DUDES 3270 NE 33rd St Fort Lauderdale

7) DAPUR 1620 N Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale

21) RUMORS BAR & GRILL 2426 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors

20) ROSIE’S BAR & GRILL 2449 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors

5) CORNER PUB 1915 N Andrews Ave Wilton Manors 6) CUBBY HOLE 823 N Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale

19) RAMROD 1508 NE 4th Ave Fort Lauderdale

4) BOOM 2232 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors

18) NEW YORK GRILLED CHEESE 2207 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors

17) NEW MOON 2440 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors

2) BILL’S FILLING STATION 2209 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 3) BOARDWALK 1721 N Andrews Ave Fort Lauderdale

16) NAKED GRAPE 2163 Wilton Drive Wilton manors

1) ALIBI 2266 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors

BAR MAP

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February 12, 2014

America’s First LGBT Socia & Proprietary Social Media Video Overview • 90% of information transmitted to the brain is visual and visuals are processed 60,000X faster in the brain than text • People are 85% more likely to purchase a product after watching a video • Viewers spend 100% more time on web pages with videos on them and finally, marketers are catching on! • Video will grow a staggering 11% in U.S. digital ad spend, going from 19% ($2.9B) in 2013 to 30% ($9.1B) in 2017 • Watching online videos is now a mainstream activity. 78% of people watch at least once a week and 55% watch everyday • Branded video content reaches nearly half (46%) of all internet users in the UK. More than half of these people (54%) go on to click though to the brand’s website (Econsultancy) • 80% of Internet users recall watching a video ad on a website they visited in the past 30 days; 46% took some action after viewing the ad (Online Publishers Association)

and online (b2bmarketing.net) • Dr. James McQuivey of Forrester Research says a minute of video is worth 1.8 million words • 81% of senior marketing executives now use online video content in their marketing programs, up from 70% in 2011 (MarketingProfs) • Cisco expects video to account for 57% of consumer internet traffic by 2015, nearly four times as much as regular web browsing and email

Video For Mobile •O nline video accounts for 50% of all mobile traffic and up to 69% of traffic on certain networks (Bytemobile Mobile Analytics Reports) • Online video consumption increased by 38% between May 2011 and May 2012 (Comscore) • 63% of digital video screening on mobiles does not happen on-the-go, but rather at home (Cisco)

• Video promotion is over 6 times more effective than print

Video for Social Media • Over 1 billion unique users visit YouTube every month (YouTube) • 500 years of YouTube video are watched every day on Facebook, and over 700 YouTube videos are shared on Twitter each minute (YouTube) • The average YouTube visitor watches 388.3 minutes of video each month (Comscore) • Video is the most shared brand content on Facebook (Zuum) • 1 in 5 Twitter users discovering videos each day from tweeted links. What’s more, two-thirds of Twitter users feel it worth watching videos tweeted by brands (Hubspot)

Read: Using Video to Drive Social Media • Video For Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) • Video results have appeared in almost 70% of the top 100 search listing on Google in 2012 (Marketing Week)

What Is the Power of Video Marketing Today and Into the Future?

“Sharing exciting and informative content has never been easier or faster on one single social med

Share content like never before

For more information, contact Kevin Hopper at 954-380-8563 x2101 kevinhopper@mmplgbt.com

al Media Online Magazine a Response Platform • The chances of getting a page one listing on Google increase 53 times with video (Forrester Research) • SEOMOZ concludes that posts with videos included will attract 3 times more in-linking domains than a plain text post • Econsultancy estimates videos in universal search results have a 41% higher click-through rate than plain-text results • YouTube accounts for over 28% of all Google searches (b2bmarketing.net)

Read: Using Video To Jump Up Google • Forbes indicates, 65% of senior executives have visited a company’s website after watching a video • 76% of marketers plan to add video to their websites, making it a higher priority than Facebook, Twitter and blog integration (Social Media Examiner) •A study by Comscore found that on average a website visitor will stay two minutes longer on a site when they watch a video • 4 in 10 shoppers visited a store online or in-person as a direct result of watching a video (ReelSEO)

dia platform.” – Bobby Blair, Publisher

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SWEET TREASURES: BULK CANDY HITS THE DRIVE! BY RICHARD DAVID CHAMBERLAIN

here’s a secret hidden among the Reese’s Pieces and salted pistachio nuts at Sweet Treasures, the new candy, gift and card store in the Shoppes of Wilton Manors. A visit to this emporium of all things chocolate and tasty is a thrill ride of discovery. In one display case is statuary by Tascano, small and erotic copies of famous Greek statues; wine caddies designed like high-heel pumps; hard to find samesex greeting cards (yes, they’ve got standard greeting cards as well), plus the largest stock of bulk candy in Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale. (Forget being forced into buying what someone else has decided is the correct quantity for you. You may buy one Pecan Patty or ten pounds.) Sweet Treasures is the baby of Frank Latella and Daniel Mimnagh, life-partners for a decade and linked at the hip in their new venture, which was Dan’s idea. “I came up with the idea of opening a bulk candy store,” he says. “I spent years working with Nassau Candy,” one of the largest specialty confectionery and gourmet food suppliers in the U.S. “I wanted to open my own store, and spoke with a friend who has a candy store in Delray Beach who encouraged me to go for my dream.” Frank’s background was in the banking industry when he met Dan on line in a social networking site. Their first phone conversation lasted so long that both men drained the batteries on their cell phones. “It wasn’t love at first sight,” add Frank, who was courted by Dan for weeks before the match turned into a relationship. It was coincidence that the mortgage industry collapsed, leaving Frank without a job, at the same time that Dan became more

BIG DEWITTE

February 12, 2014

FEATURED BUSINESS

serious with his dream of opening a candy store that would spread the joy he felt when savoring a piece of chocolate. “We wanted to open in Wilton Manors because it didn’t have any store which carried bulk candy—so it was a fresh new idea. We added greeting cards, and gift items to increase our selection,” added Dan. “And we found an empty store in the Shoppes of Wilton Manors, right in the heart of a place we enjoy ourselves.” Laughing, Frank said, “We came to Wilton Manors because of its large gay community and discovered it

was a mixed blessing. Much to our surprise, we did not get much in the way of a gay customer base. What we got was every gay organization asking for donations and gift baskets for fund raisers.” “It hurts,” said Dan, “that the community isn’t more aware of how selfish it has become. If you don’t support businesses that are here and eager to grow, you’re not going to get their support in return. That’s what we are finding ourselves right now.” “We wanted a nice big space so we have room to grow,” according to Frank. And every day there seems

SWEET TREASURES 2278 WILTON DRIVE, WILTON MANORS FL 33305 954-900-3867

to be new gift items and same-sex cards being added to their amazing assortment of candies. Secret Treasures has a full assortment of Asher Candies, “the official chocolate of everyday life.” The chocolate covered potato chips are a treat unto themselves. So too are the dark chocolate orange peels, cashew caramel patties, milk chocolate raisin clusters, cherry cordials and jumbo marshmallows with pecans. The Sweet Treasures secret? Frank and Dan are in love. When you visit them in their shop, tell them the Florida Agenda told you so.

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01292014 FA Push Fitness_Layout 1 1/27/2014 12:02 PM Page 1

his is the best, most practical fitness and nutrition program around! Burn fat, build lean muscle, improve flexibility (and have fun!) with our all-new small group BodyBlast 3.0 classes. We use kettlebells, free weights, medicine balls, TRX and other great tools to help get you in the best shape of your life. Out of shape? No problem! All fitness levels welcome. Private, one-on-one personal training also available.

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ASK THE FITNESS MAN BY PETER JACKSON, CPT

continue to eat small meals every 2-3 hours. 2) Pump some iron! Did you know that 1 lb. of muscle burns 30-50 calories per day, while 1 lb. of fat only burns about 9 calories per day? The more muscle your body contains the more calories you burn each day. Resistance training has been called the fountain of youth – and it really is! 3) Eat complex carbohydrates instead of simple sugars for a leaner body. Your body is in constant need of carbohydrates to be converted into glucose and used as fuel. When your body has extra glucose it will be stored as fat for later use. Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, take longer to break down into glucose, and will therefore be less likely to be stored as fat than simple carbohydrates such as table sugar, or fruit sugar. 4) Drink a glass of cold water every night right before you get

NUTRITION TIP OF THE WEEK

Push Fitness head coach Frank Ruggiero demonstrates the Controlled Rope Pushdown. (Photo: TobysPhotos.com)

This is a terrific exercise to build your triceps. Grab the rope on a cable machine and select a weight that’s comfortable for you. Standing shoulder-width apart, bring the rope down to a full lock-out position, making sure the elbows are full extended at the bottom and the rope is separated. Control the rope on the way up, bringing the two sides together and stop at a half-way position (as seen in photo one). Proceed to return the rope to the starting position, flexing your triceps at the bottom (as seen in position two). It is important to stop in a halfway position in order to keep the triceps contracted. Repeat steps one and two for 15 repetitions. Perform three sets.

nine months or longer, switch to a new trainer who will introduce fresh strategies and exercises to your workouts (trust me, your trainer will understand!) or try a group exercise class! Just do something different! 6) W atch the coffee beverages! The average Venti-sized Frappuccino weighs in at 530 calories. Beverages such as this contain high amounts of sugar and should be consumed rarely since the extra calories they contain are readily stored as fat. 7) Stop drinking sodas! Millions of people drink an average of two regular soft drinks a day, which is a total of 300 calories.

When you add these extra 300 calories up over a year, they result in over 30 lbs. of weight gain! Say no to soft drinks, and say goodbye to your unwanted pounds! 8) M ake sure that you are exercising in your “Fat Burn Zone” during cardiovascular workouts by checking to see if you can hold conversation without breathlessness. Your body needs oxygen to aide in fat burn, so make sure that you are breathing deeply. For other tips on training and nutrition, download my free guide “The BodyBlast Method” at www.PushFitnessFTL.com.

into bed. Your body will have to heat this water up to your body’s temperature of 98 degrees, and it will have to burn a few calories in the process! This sets your body up to burn calories as you sleep! When you make this 5 second activity a habit, you will be excited to find yourself losing weight easier than ever before. 5) The key to weight loss and fitness gains is to consistently give your body new challenges. Mix up your workouts every few weeks, and don’t be afraid to try something new! If you have been using the same personal trainer for

February 12, 2014

Little cups of fruit-flavored yogurts are often marketed as the next best weight loss secret, but you know better. These ultra-sweet concoctions are filled with sugars, corn syrup and preservatives, which will derail your fitness results and send you on a sugar high. Plain Greek yogurt has more protein and far less sugar than the cute little fruit-flavored yogurt cups. Dress it up by adding your own, chopped fresh fruit.

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Q: I’m not overweight and I do cardio for 45 minutes 3 times a week at the gym. However, I really want to get leaner. Any suggestions? A: Who among us can truly say that they are as lean and toned as they ever want to be? Most people, even the fitness buffs, are in a constant fluctuation between their ideal body and a body that is not quite ideal. So how do we sway this struggle in our favor? Quite often the difference between the body that you have today and the body that you wish you had is made up of simple daily decisions. Here are a few tips: 1) Eating right when you wake up is vital to breaking the fast your body goes into every night. Two to three hours after you eat your body shuts down your metabolism and acts as if it needs to store food. In order to communicate with your body that it is healthy, well fed, and not in need of extra fat storage you need to start your day off with a small meal and

TIPS TO GETTING A LEANER BODY

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HEALTH

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28 February 12, 2014

WINTER PARTY FESTIVAL

TRAVEL

Makes Last Minute Move to the National Hotel Miami Beach BY RICK KARLIN

ichael Bath, events director for the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force announced that the Winter Party Festival (WPF), March 5-10, will have to change venues this year. The move to a new host hotel became necessary when the original host hotel, Shelborne Wyndham Grand South Beach, informed the Task Force staff that renovations to the property would not be completed in time for the event. The National Hotel Miami Beach has been selected as the new host hotel for the 2014 Winter Party Festival. The location of the popular Under One Sun Pool party has also been moved to National Hotel Miami Beach The nostalgia of 1930s and 1940s Miami Beach is clearly apparent at National Hotel, located in the city’s Art Deco neighborhood. The oceanfront hotel boasts 152 rooms and suites as well as a 205-foot long

pool lined with palm trees and facing the Atlantic Ocean. “The staff and management of National Hotel are eager to roll out the red carpet for our Winter Party Festival guests,” said Yaser Yohamad, Hotel Manager. “We appreciate being named the new host hotel for the event and look forward to providing a true five-star experience for all our guests.” Guests who had previously booked rooms at the Shelborne have had their reservations transferred to the new host hotel, which will honor their original room rates. Guests must confirm or cancel their reservations by February 16. As a result of these transfers, The National Hotel is now completely sold out for Winter Party Festival, but additional rooms are available at Gale South Beach and Regent Hotel, The Shore Club and Hotel Gaythering. In addition to serving as the host

hotel and Under One Sun Pool Party venue, National Hotel will provide the location for the Welcome Center and the on-site management and production offices for WPF staff and volunteers. The 21st edition of WPF will feature nearly two dozen events. (For a list of the events at Winter Party and HER Winter Party, see sidebar.) Proceeds from WPF and the Miami Recognition Dinner support the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. A significant portion of the proceeds also funds multiple organizations serving the LGBT community in South Florida through a grant made by the Task Force to the GLBT Community Projects Fund of The Miami Foundation. For information on the overflow hotels, visit the WPF website at winterparty.com/ travel. Individual WPF event tickets are now on sale along with multi-event passes at winterparty.com/purchase.

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k o o L T U O

BROWARD HOUSE FUNDRAISER AT THE HILTON MARINA

PHOTOS BY BIG DEWITTE

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February 12, 2014

MOVING

*PERFECT VACATION RENTALS* WINTER RATES FROM $99/NIGHT WEEKLY** Award Winning Gay Resort Hotel. All the comforts of home. Beautiful Studio, 1 & 2 BR Self Catering Apts. with Full Kitchens. Clothing Optional heated pool, laundry, private parking. Closest Gay Hotel to Haulover Nude Beach & 15 minutes to Wilton Manors. Incl. Parking, Wi-Fi, Telephone. Gay Owned & Operated. Pets Always Welcome. Celebrating Our 17th Year Call Joe or Jack at (954) 927-0090 or visit www. LibertySuites.com

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)5065540-www.redboxmoving.com

MARKETPLACE

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ACCOMMODATIONS

CLEANING SERVICES

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

EMPLOYMENT

CERTIFIED NURSE ASSISTANTS (CNAs) and Home Health Assistants (HHAs) needed for growing Nurse Registry in Wilton Manors serving LGBT Seniors throughout Broward County. Recruiting now for future assignments, both part-time and full-time, hourly and live-in, temporary assignments and spot coverage assignment available now for those seeking extra hours or a transition. Fax documents to 954-728-9522 or email ernest@emeralelitehomehealth.com to request an appointment for any weekday between 2p and 4p. COURTYARD CAFE Now seeking full time Breakfast cooks and Dishwashers for the season. Apply in person at 2211 Wilton drive or fax application to 954-779-1396 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.

February 12, 2014

PEST CONTROL

CLEAN IT RITE—THE BEST CLEANING SERVICE FOR YOUR BUCK! 1BR, $60, 2BR, $70, 3BR $80. Ex- GOT ANTS? Aloha bugs inc. Full service pest control. cellent references. 10 years in the business. Serving BRO- Ant Specialist, White Fly, Lawn Spraying. Serving your WARD, North Miami, and South Palm Beach. Contact Community for over 20 Years. (954) 920-BUGS (2847) Manny, (954) 560-4443

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 KEY WEST BUNGALOW - SOUTH MIDDLE RIVER Charming 3BR/1BA, sits on lushly landscaped lot just steps from Wilton Drive. Huge screened lanai overlooks garden and 150-foot Royal Palm. Peter Cowan Realtor, BH&G FL 1st (954) 234-8365. Virtual Tour available at Realtor.com – MLS 1266462 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 FORT LAUDERDALE/WILTON MANORS- ONE BEDROOM APT FOR RENT Very beautiful, washer/ dryer in unit! Available now. $840/month. Drive by and see location at 15 N.E. 16th St. Call Nick @ 954-805-1195 FORT LAUDERDALE, 2 bedrooms, one bath, nicely furnished, blocks from the beach, behind W hotel, gated community, plush landscape with pool and laundry on site fully applianced, cable, utilities included, up to 6 months avail. Beginning, 4/1/2014, $1,400.00/mo. (401) 935-8186 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 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 FURNISHED HOUSING we welcome and appreciate diversity - a progressive 4 WEEK+ SPECIAL FROM $325/WEEK THROUGH community in the Catholic tradition. 954-731-8173; END OF NOVEMBER Gay Owned & Operated Apartment www.stsfrancisandclare.org Hotel. Beautiful Studio,1 & 2 BR Apts. With Full Kitchens. Turn-key, fully furnished & equipped, clothing optional pool, TRAVEL laundry, parking. Central to Wilton Manors & Haulover Beach. Incl. Wi-Fi, utilities, cable, tel. Pets Welcome. Call Joe BEST TRAVEL & TOURS OF WILTON MANORS or Jack at (954) 927-0090 or visit www.LibertySuites.com 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 CaLICENSED MASSAGE ribbean voyage from April 26th-May 1, 2014 round RECESSION RELIEF- $40 per 90 Mins-Out Calls Higher. trip from Ft. Lauderdale. For details, contact Paul Swedish & Deep-Tissue. Specialty is Back, Lower Body, and Esposito @954-290-7045 or paul_besttravel@bellFeet. Couples Discount. Seniors Welcome. 16 Years Expe- south.net or Napoleon Zambrano @954-564-1996 rience. Delray Beach. MA 18563 Dennis (561) 502-2628 or besttravel@bellsouth.net

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATE WITH THE ONE YOU’RE WITH! PICK UP SOMETHING THAT YOU BOTH CAN ENJOY! 1226 NE 4th AVE FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33304 954.761.1236

LEATHERWERKS.COM

Copyright © 2014 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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MARKETPLACE

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BUYING? SELLING? INVESTING? RENTING?

February 12, 2014

The Russotto Group is on the move again!

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