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Lake Worth City Manager Her Own Worst Enemy PAGE PAGE 15
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Newsline Gay Rodeos n SIDELINES
Sexy Cowboys or Animal Abuse?
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By ALEX VAUGHN
Thursdays, in April, Sidelines Sports Bar will offer a new drink special for its many loyal patrons from 9 pm to close. PAGE 2
As the Gay rodeo pulls into town this weekend, there is a lot of excitement; protestors, however, will be descending on Davie, FL, and the Sunshine Stampede Rodeo to protest what they claim events’ cruel and unjust treatment of animals. Christopher Murphy, 44, and his elderly terrier mix Merlin will be driving four hours from Orlando to Davie to join his South Florida Animal Rights Friends in protesting the Sunshine Stampede Rodeo. He told Agenda, “I disapprove of rodeos because they include activities that terrorize animals: chasing and hogtying terrified calves, strapping genitaltwisting belts on horses so they buck, agitating bulls so they also buck, chasing a goat around and putting Calvin Klein jockey shorts on him”. This is the 6th Annual Sunshine Stampede Rodeo in Florida and every year the event is protested against. The organizers have an animal welfare page on their site. Murphy, who has been a vegetarian for fifteen years and a vegan for four, however, finds this laughable, saying “They make all kinds or excuses
n Fort Lauderdale n Miami n Bay Area n Central Florida
Courtesy, Bilerico.com
n LADY
GAGA’S MONSTER BALL The Scissor Sisters and Semi Precious Weapons opening for Lady Gaga’s Monster Ball tour. PAGE 32 Courtesy, Lady Gaga
n RICKY
MARTIN LIVE! On stage for his first world tour in over three years, Friday April 8th, in Orlando at the Amway Center PAGE 33 Courtesy, Ricky Martin
n WET LUBE
WRESTLING Chelsea Night Club hosts this month’s event, sponsored by WET. Get ready to get some WET wrestlin' on! PAGE 33 Courtesy, centralstationpub.com
and rationalizations; the most embarrassing is ‘most of the exaggerated accusations of abuse made by animal rights groups toward gay rodeo are based on erroneous information drawn mainly from straight, backwoods rodeo.’ Basically they’re saying, ‘Because we’re a gay rodeo we’re nice, not like those terrible straight rodeos’”. Christopher, who began a small pet rescue in December, 2004, called Superior Mutts Doggie Rescue, Inc., says, “There’s not a gay man or woman in this country who hasn’t been tormented and abused mentally and physically for not conforming to traditional gender roles. Why, then, would any of us tor-
ment and abuse calves, goats, horses and bulls, and for entertainment?” The New York City native, who has lived in Orlando for twenty-one years, still sees potential in a Gay Rodeo that did not ‘abuse’ animals; “If Sunshine Spurs limited their rodeo to adult activities that didn’t harm or terrorize animals I would be driving four hours to attend it as a spectator. I’m
See ‘GAY RODEO’ on Page 12
Bi-National Couples Face Deportation Homeland Security Lifts Stay on Proceedings By ALEX VAUGHN According to unofficial estimates, about 36,000 bi-national couples – usually, a US citizen and a foreign-born national whose visa has expired – currently reside in the United States, living just as married people everywhere do. However, like other immigrants who lack permanent legal status, the foreignborn marriage partner lives in constant fear of detection and possible deportation. In New Jersey, Josh Vandiver was married last year in Connecticut, where same-sex marriage is legal, to Henry
Velandia, a citizen of Venezuela. Velandia's visitor visa expired, and he said he hasn't been able to get a green card, or permanent resident status, through an employer. Because the federal government doesn't recognize the couple's marriage, Vandiver cannot sponsor Velandia as a heterosexual person could sponsor a spouse. Now Velandia is facing possible deportation and could be returned to his home country after a hearing May 6. Many bi-national heterosexual couples face the same dilemma. But, unlike
See ‘DEPORTATION’ on Page 7
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Curtain Up! FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The Stonewall Library and Archives has announced a new exhibit, “Curtain Up! Homosexual Characters on Broadway” which will on display from May 2 to June 30 and will be free and open to the public. In 1922 when “The God of Vengeance” appeared on Broadway, theatergoers saw a lesbian love scene for the first time. The cast was arrested. It was not long before a censorship law forbade homosexual characters from being presented on stage. But playwrights had clever ways of working around the situation and ground-breaking plays such as “Design for Living” and “The Children’s Hour” won acclaim. This exhibition explores the time from the early Roaring Twenties to 1968 when “The Boys in the Band” broke all taboos off-Broadway. There will be an opening reception on May 2 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.H
Sidelines Takes You South of the Border WILTON MANORS, FL – Beginning on Thursdays, in the month of April, Sidelines Sports Bar will offer a new drink special for its many loyal patrons. The new Thursday night special consists of $3 shots of tequila or $3 margaritas available from 9 p.m. to close. Sidelines says that if this new drink special takes off and remains popular, they may decide to continue offering them through the upcoming summer months - making it the perfect summer drink for those hot Florida days and nights.H
“Simple Life” Moves to Lux After six years at the Buck 15 Lounge, one of Miami Beach’s longest running gay events is re-locating. D.J. Daisy D. and promoter Edison Farrow and his SoBe Social Club will continue the weekly Thursday night Simple Life event at Lux, 1439 Washington Avenue. The move was necessitated by Buck 15 closing at its current location with plans in the future to re-open in a new venue close to the former Lincoln Lane.H
Photo courtesy of Julie Carson
Oakland Park Swears in New Commissioners, Mayor OAKLAND PARK, FL – Oakland Park City Commissioner Suzanne Boisvenue has been sworn in as the new Mayor of Oakland Park. Boisvenue is originally from Vermont and is serving her second four-year term as a city commissioner. She will serve her rotation as the city’s Mayor for one year. During her period in office, Ms. Boisvenue has been a tireless supporter of the LGBT community, not just in Oakland Park but throughout the area.H
Trump Doesn’t Feel Good About Gay Marriage NEW YORK, NY – Billionaire Donald Trump says he doesn’t “feel good” about the issue of marriage equality. The thrice-married tycoon, who is a potential 2012 Republican presidential candidate, has stated his opposition to the issue several times in the last month. Speaking on The O’Reilly Factor this week, he said that the denial of rights to gay and lesbian couples was not a “big problem”. “I’m against it,” Trump said. “I just don’t feel good about it; I don’t feel right about it. I’m against it. “And I take a lot of heat because I come from New York. You know for New York it’s like, ‘How can you be against gay marriage?’ But I’m opposed to gay marriage.” When asked about the view that current laws violate gay civil rights, Trump responded: “I say that we have other problems in this country. “And I don’t think a president should be elected on gay marriage or not gay marriage, because we have some very big problems,” he added. In an interview with the Des Moines Register in early March, Trump was asked whether gay couples should have the same civil benefits as straights. At first, he responded that his views were not “fully formed.” Then he added: “As of this moment, I would say no and no” to gay marriage and civil benefits. Trump is the owner of the Miss USA pageant. In 2009, he dismissed Miss California Carrie Prejean, an outspoken opponent of same-sex marriage, for “failing to attend engagements,” but Prejean insisted it was because of her stance on same-sex marriage. He said last month that he was “incredibly tempted” to run for president in 2012 and will make a decision by June.H
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Columbia University Ends ROTC Ban NEW YORK, NY – The senate of students and faculty at Columbia University has voted to end their ban on allowing ROTC on the university’s campus. The ban was put into position during the Vietnam War as part of a peace movement and has been in place for over four decades. The lifting of the ban, which passed the senate 51 to 17, was in response to the military’s decision to drop their discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. H
Gay Sailor Can Stay in Navy SAN FRANCISCO, CA – A three-member disciplinary board at the Lemoore Naval Air Station in California voted unanimously against discharging Navy petty officer, Derek Morado for violating the military’s Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy. Morado will be permitted to serve out his remaining three years of enlistment. Morado, 26, had been under investigation for violating DADT since 2009 when someone reported to the Naval officials that they had seen Morado’s profile on Myspace claiming he was gay. H
Malaysian Gay Film Makes Profit KUALA LUMPUR, MALASIA – Despite religious taboos of the predominantly Muslim nation, Malaysia’s first gay-themed film turned a profit in its first five days of release. Because of strict censorship, Muslim audiences rarely get to view a film of any sexual natural. The same-sex romance film which cost the producers $320,000 to produce, Dalam Botol, grossed $330,000 in its first five days. The film is about a Muslim man who has a sex change operation to please his male lover. H
Log Cabin GOP: DADT “Absurd” SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The Log Cabin Republican Club has filed a brief with the 9th U.S. Circuit Court challenging the Obama administration’s hold on repealing “Don’t Tell, Don’t Tell”. The Defense Department is holding off the implementation of the end of the ban on gays serving in the military until the Pentagon completes preparations and troop training. The brief, filed by the Log Cabin Club, referred to the hold as “absurd” and feels the policy should be dropped immediately. The brief claims that Congress, which voted to repeal DADT last December, doesn’t have the constitutionality to allow the law to stay in effect while the Pentagon claims they are certifying that the change in the law won’t damage combat readiness. According to the brief filed with the court by the Log Cabin Republicans, “Even though a judge found this to be unconstitutional and the administration is not disagreeing with that, they are still investigating and able to discharge people.” H
Photos courtesy, feastoffun.com
Bisexual Screen Idol Dies NEW YORK, NY – Farley Granger, an openly bisexual 1950’s, screen idol died last week at the age of 85. Granger was the star of Rope and Strangers on a Train, both classics directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Granger died of natural causes, according to the New York medical examiner’s office. Granger’s career sky rocked when, at 16-years old, he joined the drama club at North Hollywood High School and was discovered by a talent scout for Samuel Goldwyn and appeared in his first movie, The North Star, in 1943. He also appeared in television and on stage. He did leave acting long enough to serve in the navy in World War II. After the war, he returned to Hollywood where he became a favorite in fan magazines. Photos in these magazines showed him with numerous Hollywood starlets, but Granger admitted that his only true romance was with Shelley Winters. In 2007, Granger published his memoir, “Include Me Out” along with his partner Robert Calhoun. Granger wrote how, at the age of 21 while a navy recruit and a virgin, he had sex with a female prostitute. After finishing with her he then had sex with another male navy officer. "I lost my virginity twice in one night," he wrote. H
Gay Bar Raided in Shanghai SHANGHAI, CHINA – Police raided a popular gay bar in the Bund riverfront of Shanghai early Sunday and detained more than 60 people. Police gave no details about the allegations but, according to the Sun, “the report cited migrant workers who live in a makeshift shelter on the roof of the building where the bar is situated that they ‘often saw naked men on the roof, drinking beer, chatting loudly, and even having sex.’” The Herald Sun reports that some DJs, customers and staff members were held up to 12 hours after being detained at Q Bar, where police charged that “pornographic” shows were taking place. One DJ said he believed the raid Continues on NEWS on Page 8
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Ride ‘Em Cowboy! The Sunshine Stampede Rodeo Comes to Fort Lauderdale FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – South Florida readies itself for the Sunshine Stampede Gay Rodeo. Every year, this event causes those designer jeans lovers to take off those Diesel and True Religion brands and switch to Wrangler and Levis. Cowboys – and “just-for-thisweekend” cowboys – line the sidewalks of Wilton Drive with their cowboy hats and patterned shirts. Despite all the parties held in town, the rodeo itself will be held at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie and is being organized by the Florida Gay Rodeo Association. Now in its sixth year, the Rodeo will be held April 7th through 10th. The official bar sponsor of the Sunshine Stampede is, naturally, Scandals Saloon so you see will be more cowboys there than usual, and most rodeo parties will be held at both Scandals and their sister bar, The Stable. Yes, two bars packed all weekend long with wranglers, bull riders, cowboys and rodeo clowns. A cowgirl’s event will be held at New Moon Bar, also in Wilton Manors. This is your opportunity to find out how the west was fun. For more information and tickets, visit www.fgra.org. The Sunshine Stampede Gay Rodeo is a production of the Florida Gay Rodeo Association, and each year the rodeo has gotten bigger until it has now become one of the largest gay rodeos in the United States. The International Gay Rodeo Association has more than 4,500 active members and is made up of amateur gay rodeo clubs in 33 regions of the United States and Canada, from Colorado to Toronto. For the huge cross-section of viewers, gay rodeo is about pure fun. People come because they are curious, or because they have friends who are competing, and families come out with their kids. All events have two main things in common: the same lineup of competitive events and a fund-raising component, in
which profits benefit a local charities. Other gay rodeos are being held this year in Albuquerque, Calgary, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Little Rock, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Oklahoma City, Palm Springs, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, Reno, St. Louis, Tulsa and Tucson.
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as the union of a heterosexual man and a heterosexual woman. Earlier this year, Attorney General Eric Holder said the government would no longer defend the law in court. But the administration continues to enforce it. "In light of Attorney General Holder's new guidance, I am asking you to suspend the deportation of all spouses of citizens in a same-sex marriage until a decision is reached on DOMA," Holt wrote in his letter. "This is the right thing to do for Henry, Josh and countless others who are being victimized by this discriminatory and unconstitutional law." His plea follows confusion last week over how visas should be handled. The government briefly allowed applications for immigrant benefits for same-sex couples, then backtracked days later after a review of the laws. Lavi Soloway, the couple’s immigration lawyer said that if the Defense of Marriage law is struck down, same-sex
their gay counterparts, they can apply for a US marriage visa, which confers automatic legal status on the foreignborn partner. Those visas are among the easiest to obtain. About 500,000 are granted annually on the assumption that married immigrants tend to be healthier and happier and, as studies show, tend to integrate more quickly into the American mainstream. U.S. Rep. Rush Holt is pushing the Obama administration to halt deportation proceedings against the same-sex spouses of U.S. citizens. The Democrat wrote a letter to the federal Department of Homeland Security on Tuesday to make the request on behalf of the couple who live in his central New Jersey district. The case underscores the ambiguous status of the 1996 federal Defense of Marriage Act, which defines marriage
Schedule of Events: April 7, 2011 – Thursday • Horse Stalls Open for Early Check In, Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 1 to 5 pm. Stall space limited. April 8, 2011 – Friday • Horse Stalls Reopen for Regular Check In, Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 8 am to 6 pm Stalls available for check in. Arrive by 5:30 pm to complete check in by 6 pm. • Vendor Set-Up, Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 10 am to 4 pm. • Rodeo School, Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 8:30 am to noon. • World Finals Committee Meeting, Hilton Hotel, 10 am. • Lunch for IGRA Board of Directors, Hilton Hotel, 12 noon. • IGRA Board Meeting with Trustees Meeting to follow, Hilton Hotel, 1 pm. • Blue Moon Welcome Pool Party and Mixer, Presented by Blue Moon Belgian White Ale, Non Ticketed Event, cash bar, Hilton Pool Deck, 2 to 6:30 pm. After you check in, relax by the pool, enjoy the music and meet the cowboys and cowgirls coming in from all over North America. • Contestant Registration, Dania Ballroom, Hilton Hotel, 6 to 9 pm. • Rodeo Kickoff Party at Scandals Saloon, non-ticketed event, 8 pm. Shuttles from Hilton to Scandals starts at 8 pm, donations accepted, no ticket required. VIP dance and bar area opens - passes required for access to VIP area. Last shuttle to Hilton leaves at 2 am. Hop on the shuttles and join the cowboys and cowgirls at Scandals Saloon for the official Rodeo kick-off party in
downtown Wilton Manors. The shuttles will be traveling between the hotel, Scandals Saloon, and Rosie’s and will be free this year. Donations will be accepted to help defray the cost – remember: It’s all for charity. • Cowgirls Mixer, New Moon Bar, Wilton Manors April 9, 2011 – Saturday • Contestant Breakfast, Bergeron Arena, free for contestants and officials – credentials required, 7:30 am. • First Time (New) Contestant Meeting, Bergeron Rodeo Grounds – Premium Seating Section, near the Contestant area and announcer’s stand, 8:30 am. Mandatory meeting for all first time rodeo contestants. • Stampede Officials Meeting, Bergeron Rodeo Grounds - concession area, 8 am. • 2011 Sunshine Stampede Rodeo, Day One. Tickets Required for this event. 7:30 am rodeo shuttles start, donations accepted, but no ticket required for shuttle. Bergeron Rodeo Grounds’ gates open at 8:45 am, rodeo starts at 9 am (morning events), 12:30 pm, Grand Entry. 1 pm, rodeo (afternoon events). • Midway Tent Opens for dancing and entertainment, 1 pm. • Officials Dinner - TBA. Invitation Only • Hoedown at Scandals Saloon, non ticketed event, 8 pm. Shuttle from hotel starts at 8 pm, donations accepted, no ticket required. VIP dance and bar area opens, passes required to VIP area. 2 am, last shuttle to hotels. Hop the shuttles and join the cowboys and cowgirls at Scandals Saloon in downtown Wilton Manors. The shuttles will be traveling between the hotel, Scandals Saloon, and Rosie’s and will be free this year. Donations will be accepted to help defray the cost - remember: It’s all for charity.
couples legally married in any state will be recognized as married by the federal government. In fact, legislation like the Dream Act is already pending for gay immigrants without legal status. Known as the Uniting American Families Act, or UAFA, the bill would revise the family visa system to allow "permanent partners," as well as "spouses," to be sponsored by US citizens for a green card. The beauty of the legislation is that it doesn't even require that DOMA and the traditional definition of marriage be overturned. It simply says that those without traditional marriage bonds can also be sponsored And like the Dream Act, the bill still enjoys widespread congressional support, including more than 100 co-sponsors in the House, and 25 in Senate. Even some leading Senate Republicans, like Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine, both strong gay rights
Photo courtesy, flickr.com
April 10, 2011 – Sunday • Contestant Breakfast, Bergeron Arena - free for contestants and officials – credentials required, 7:30 am. • 2011 Sunshine Stampede Rodeo, Day Two, tickets required for this event, 8:a.m. rodeo shuttle starts, donations accepted but no tickets required, Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, gates open at 9:45 am, rodeo starts (morning events), 10 am, Grand Entry, noon. 12:45 pm, rodeo afternoon events. • Midway tent opens for dancing and entertainment, 1 pm. • Awards ceremony and dinner presented by Sunny.org. Awards ceremony itself is a non-ticket event. 8 pm. Hilton poolside awards ceremony, 7:30 pm. dinner buffet begins, dinner requires a ticket $10. Dinner tickets will be available at the Bergeron Arena ticket office and Friday night at registration. • Closing Party at Scandals Saloon, nonticketed event, 8 pm, shuttle starts at 8 pm, donations accepted but no tickets required. VIP dance area and bar area opens at 8 pm, pass required for VIP access. Last shuttle to hotels 2 pm. The shuttles will be traveling between the hotel, Scandals Saloon, and Rosie’s and will be free this year. Donations will be accepted to help defray the cost remember: It’s all for charity. H
backers, have indicated that they may support the UAFA. Two major supporters of immigration reform, the US Catholic Church and the National Association of Evangelicals, oppose UAFA and support DOMA. This political influence contributed to the dramatic about-face of the DHS. For a president desperate to get an immigration bill passed, and also to get re-elected (young white evangelicals swung his way in 2008), backing off on gay immigrant rights must have seemed like an easy, if cynical, choice. Congressman Gutierrez is launching a nationwide campaign to demand that Obama live up to the pledges on immigration reform he made during the 2008 campaign, and gay rights groups plan to file suit in federal court to overturn DOMA’s prejudicial application to gay immigrants. H
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Shanghai gay bar, Q Bar, was raided by police
Photos courtesy, queerty.com
resulted from a competitor bar that complained to police. Shanghai was the location of the first gay pride festival in China in 2009, although some events were cancelled by authorities at the last minute. Being gay was considered a crime in China until 1997, and homosexuality was officially listed as a mental illness until 2001. H
Same Sex Couple’s Australian Visa Denied AUSTRALIA – A same-sex couple from Bangladesh who had their protection visa application refused by the Australian immigration department, have launched a legal challenge through the High Court to appeal the decision, describing it as a "miscarriage of justice". The men’s application was made based on a claim that they were at risk of torture and death threats in Bangladesh due to their homosexuality. They claim the reason for refusal was based partly on an anonymous faxed letter claiming they were not a legitimate couple. The men say this is likely to have been written by their former Australian immigration agent with whom they were in dispute over fees. Escalation to the High Court follows an appeal at a tribunal in which the Immigration Minister’s original decision to refuse protection was upheld, based partly on the letter which claimed one of the men had a girlfriend and that his claim to be gay was “totally bogus”. Speaking in 2009, tribunal member Giles Short said he “would not ordinarily place much weight on a message from an anonymous informant, but I consider it significant that the person … was clearly close enough to the applicant to know his passport number and the nature of the claims he had made in support of his application for a protection visa''. The High Court’s decision is believed to be likely to influence standards for evidence and procedure in future Refugee Review Tribunal hearings. H
Videogames Embrace Gay Characters ALBERTA, CANADA – Game manufacturer BioWare responds to a 'straight male gamer' who complained about the gay flirting in Dragon Age II From Kurt in Glee to Captain Jack in Torchwood, from Thirteen in House to Naomi in Skins, recent years have given us a glut of gay and bisexual characters on TV. Continues on NEWS on Page 9
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Gay Tony, a character from Grand Theft Auto IV
Photo courtesy, gamespy.com
Surprisingly, given its macho image, the same has also been true in video gaming. The 2010 game Mass Effect 2 gave the option of a lesbian relationship for those who played the main character as a woman (though not a gay relationship if they played the character as a man). Grand Theft Auto IV produced the downloadable content The Ballad of Gay Tony. And while Hollywood still seems to have a problem hiring gay actors to play gay characters, British-made hit game series Fable has cast Stephen Fry as the louche bisexual character Reaver in all three games.
news Now, BioWare, creator of Mass Effect, has robustly defended its decision to include gay relationships in its new roleplaying game Dragon Age II. Players who choose to be a man will be flirted with by another male character, as well as by several female characters. But receiving a male flirt, as well as the lack of "exotic" heterosexual romance choices, disturbed one player who posted angrily on a forum that BioWare was neglecting its "main demographic: the straight male gamer". "It makes things very awkward," said this ‘straight male gamer’, "when your male companions keep making passes at you," before calling for the implementation of a "No Homosexuality" option to remove this distressing gayness from the game. He resents the fact that, although in previous BioWare games "almost every companion in the game was designed for the male gamer," this is no longer the case. Plus, of course, he personally finds homosexuality "disgusting". The response of David Gaider, senior writer at BioWare, was masterly: "Privilege always lies with the majority. They're so used to being catered to that they see the lack of catering as an imbalance … and the person who says that the only way to please them is to restrict options for others is, if you ask me, the one who deserves it least." Hollywood may still have trouble making gay movies or casting gay actors, but the gaming industry is already far more grown up. H
Resignation After Gay Slur AUSTIN, TEXAS – Charlie McCaslin, the chairman of the Texas College Republicans, has resigned his post after using a gay slur to describe a candidate for chairman of the College Republican National Committee, the SMU Daily Campus reported. McCaslin, a Southern Methodist University junior, defamed Jonathan Snyder, a student at Ohio State University, during an endorsement toast for his rival, Auburn University student Alex Schriver. “Let me just tell you, character counts. That's why I have a gut instinct this is the right man for the job,” McCaslin says pointing to Schriver. “You know, the other team are nerds, are fags,” he said to thunderous applause and whistles during an afterhours at the Texas College Republicans convention held last weekend in Austin. McCaslin's toast was captured with a telephone video camera and uploaded to YouTube by InnovateCRNC, the committee supporting Snyder's candidacy. “I have been on an incredible journey last year because I met this guy, we were both hammered at this girl's apartment and I hooked up with the girl, who had sex on her desk,” McCaslin also says in the video. At the end of the speech, everyone cheers McCaslin's remarks. “To
Photo courtesy, dallasvoice.com Charlie McCaslin, Former Chairman of the Texas College Republicans
Charlie!” they toast. In resigning, McCaslin apologized for his comments. “I cannot continue my work for the party in this capacity. The mistakes I have made have put my colleagues, my friends and school in harm's way and they do not deserve to be part of such a bitter cycle.” “In this instance, my actions were wrong.” H
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IGLTA: Countdown to Convention
Fort Lauderdale Gay-Owned Businesses Seek to Attract International LGBT Dollars By CLIFF DUNN In recent months, the nation’s fragile economic state has shown small – in some instances, very small – indicators of recovery and even growth. According to Intuit’s Small Business Employment Index, last month small businesses nationwide created approximately 50,000 new jobs, a smallish 0.2% increase from February, but an annual growth rate of nearly 3%. The Index also shows that small firms have created 820,000 new jobs since the job market started recovering in October 2009. Perhaps most impressive, there were 565,000 new businesses created each month of the past year. That translates into a notable 6.8 million new businesses opening their doors. The flip-side of these laudatory stats, of course, is that most of these firms will fail before their first birthday. That downside is reflected close to home: in Wilton Manors alone, 17 businesses have ceased operations since January 2010; another ten are projected to close their doors in the coming months. The challenges facing small business was one reason for the creation of the Rainbow Business Coalition (RBC) of Greater Fort Lauderdale, an alliance of gay-owned businesses and community leaders with a mission to promote new business opportunities, drive sustainable economic growth and expand market reach and market share for the area’s LGBT businesses, of which more than 90 are RBC members. Reece Darham, the group’s chair and owner of Wilton Manors-based Island City Health & Fitness, says of RBC: “Our strength truly lies in the collective bargaining and influence our combined businesses yield.” The challenge for Darham and other business and community leaders has been to translate that influence and clout into tangible market share. South Florida’s economy remains one driven, in large measure, by tourism dollars, and area businesses are doing what they can to tap into those resources that are making themselves available. Last week, The Miami Herald reported that local tourism officials are launching efforts to claim their share of the nation’s $74 billion wedding industry. But although many LGBT-owned businesses are subsumed by or allied with that industry, the overall market is one which serves a largely heterosexual consumer group. How, then, to encourage a large – and sustainable - infusion of gay tourism dollars into the gay business community at a time when it most needs the injection?
Enter the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA), which selected Greater Fort Lauderdale as the site for its 2011 Annual Global Convention. Beginning May 10, between 800 and 1,000 travel agents from 84 countries will descend upon Broward County for nearly a week. The purpose of the convention depends upon who you ask. Says John Tanzella, President and CEO of IGLTA: “We want our attendees to find the convention valuable because of the networking opportunities and the extensive educational programming, the most ambitious in our 28-year convention history. We’re bringing in industry leaders from Google, TripAdvisor, [and] IBM.” RBC’s Darham sees the additional benefits. “Whenever an international convention comes to town, there is an immediate economic impact,” he notes. “The IGLTA convention is estimated to bring in $1.3 million in the short week they are here, and has the potential to generate millions more in the months and years to come.” RBC and its business affiliates plan to ensure those delegates are left with sustainable memories they can take home to their cities and countries of origin, planting the seeds for their own clients’ future travel plans to the Gold Coast. “Fort Lauderdale is still a hidden gem in the national and international LGBT community,” says Darham. “It is time to change that, and the IGLTA convention is a marvelous way to do just that.” RBC and its members are planning to welcome the international travel agents by hosting what they hope will be a wellreceived and well-remembered event. “Celebrate Fort Lauderdale” will be held in Wilton Manors on Friday evening, May 13, at 6 p.m. On the heels of the IGLTA Consumer Trade Show, the RBC will honor the convention delegates with a flag ceremony along Wilton Drive in which Mayor Gary Resnick will the lead the Parade of Nations. The parade will terminate at Hagen Park next to city hall, and be followed by a free live concert featuring Billboard recording artist Kristine W. Darham predicts that the good will engendered will be well worth the meticulous planning going into the event. “The convention impact is far beyond travel and tourism,” he notes. “Restaurants, bars, retail outlets, spas, real estate agencies, gyms, and more all benefit economically from the attendees. These delegates have the ability to economically impact all of us into the future.” H
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medication is considered to 'taint' the meat.” Mitchell clearly states that this is not all about hot stud cowboys and frontier the case “If they are unwell or unable to drag queens … I just can’t bear watching perform they are sold immediately and animals suffer and watching gay men never used. In addition we have a vet on and women who have suffered enjoying site in case of any animal emergencies.” Wilson continued, “The PRCA it.” Rodeo Cowboys Jim Mitchell the Rodeo Director of (Professional the Florida Gay Rodeo Association is Association) will argue that there are quick to come to the defence of the 'humane laws' in effect at their events. rodeo. He says, “‘First off our very However, if you are to read them carefulstrict rule book of 25 years, we clearly ly, the language is vague, and indeed state electric pokes and only serves as an attempt to satisfy public outcry of the treatment of these unwilling participants. ” When asked about broken bones and genital ties Jim Mitchell is clear, “I have never seen a tail broken in 6 years. I was chairman of the Animal Issues committee for the International Gay Rodeo Association. At end of each Rodeo we do review and checklist, anytime an injury occurs we document the cause to see what we can change in the future. Last year two injuries were reported, they were minor and not caused by humans. Genitalia twisting doesn’t happen because most our animals have been castratdallasvoice.com Photo courtesy, ed. The bull that hasn’t wears a flank prods are not used, they are however in a straight rodeo that’s that goes around his stomach and waist different.” He went on to explain “they NOT his genitals” The consensus from protestors is, as are not needed. And we don’t use them as much for the protection of our ani- Holly puts it, that “Individuals of the mals as for ourselves. Animals get very gay community have all had their own testy when zapped and that is incredibly personal experiences regarding public humiliation, oppression, and even physdangerous. We don’t allow it period. “ He told the Agenda, “Over half our ical violence. Torturing animals is in extremely strict rule book is dedicated direct contrast to everything we stand to preventing animal cruelty. Any con- for, and have overcome. Supporting the testant found to be abusing animals will rodeo is a step in the wrong direction.” Mitchell says “ I have no problems be instantly disqualified” Nathan Runkle is the executive direc- with protestors my issue is they are bastor & founder of Mercy for Animals. He ing the information they are protesting is openly gay and himself has been the about on what they have seen at straight victim of a hate crime, in a statement to rodeos. We are very different and as we the Agenda, he said, “Like the oppres- are a not for profit organisation that is sion of gay people, the rodeo is an unac- independent we have the luxury of ceptable cruelty against the vulnerable changing the rules to what we feel is that our community should work to end. most humane for the animals.” He concluded “I would like to show “He went on to clarify that, “These animals are not ‘athletes,’ they are forced to them [protestors] how we take care of perform against their will and they are the animals, the chutes are in excellent slaughtered when they are no longer condition, and the animals are well fed. I get very passionate when people make useful.“ Holly Wilson, M.D., who will also be statements they don’t have back up for protesting at the rodeo in full costume, mainly because of what happens at straight rodeos. Also this is one of the told Agenda that, “The rodeo is regarded by some as a few events that brings the whole com'professional sport'. However, in profes- munity in Fort Lauderdale together. sional sports, both sides are aware of Many other gay events are too adult the objectives, and are willing partici- themed. We at the Rodeo are transparent pants. Animals are forced into the ring about the high level of care we have for and are (literally) fighting for their lives. our animals. Ultimately protestors will Broken bones and ruptured internal be against the rodeo, because it involves organs are common injuries. animals, but we treat our animals Furthermore, the animals are left to lan- right.”H guish without any painkillers or euthanasia. Many of these animals will go on to become food, and administering
GAY RODEO Continued from Cover
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OPEN FOR BUSINESS! By CLIFF DUNN A Bully Pulpit You Can Bank On Since the operating company which owns Northwest Savings Bank announced plans in January to close its three Broward County locations, there has been a lot of wait-and-see concerning which area financial institutions will benefit from the coming vacuum. A number of smaller, community-style banks and credit unions are hoping to benefit from Northwest’s leave-taking, an exit which has $59 Million in combined deposits and $106.1 Million in loan paper up for grabs. For some, the trick seems to be letting customers know they’re waiting with open arms. “We would love to show those soon-to-beorphaned customers that they have a soft landing here,” says Brenda Hartley, Wilton Manors Branch VP for BankUnited. Directing traffic to her front door isn’t a recently-learned behavior for Hartley. “I’ve been based in our Wilton Manors branch for over seven years,” she explains. “I still need to remind people that we’re open for business just a few doors down from Five Points Publix. For our customers, though, we’re like a great restaurant: once they find us, they never leave.” Recently, Hartley and BankUnited took a stand against bullying and its often tragic consequences, especially among LGBT youth. Last year, the Southern Poverty Law Center teamed up with the Broward Sheriff ’s Office Hate Crimes and AntiBias Task Force to produce the documentary “Bullied,” which chronicles the real-life struggles of then-teen Jamie Nabozny, who stood up to his tormentors with a Federal lawsuit while still a kid in Wisconsin. That suit led to a landmark court decision which held that school officials are accountable for antigay bullying that occurs on their campuses. The groups agreed to hold the film’s premier as a benefit for the Pride Center at Equality Park, and Hartley jumped on board to help bring the film to South Florida for its premier at Fort Lauderdale’s Cinema Paradiso. Poker in the Front, Liquor in the Rear Although Texas Hold ‘Em poker has been around for years, and entered into the zeitgeist nearly a decade ago on cable broadcasts such as “Celebrity Poker Showdown” (who even knew Gabe Kaplan was still alive?), the game – much like a number of local bartenders – has found a new life and following at several Wilton Manors venues. Both The Manor Restaurant and Complex and Sidelines Sports Bar have poker tables set up near their front entrances on certain nights as an enticement for patrons to stop in and play. Sidelines offers Texas Hold ‘Em daily through their interactive video games, as well as a tournament on Tuesday evenings, and a game night on Mondays that includes
Cliff Dunn poker upon request. Jennifer Morales, the club’s Director of Marketing, says that the tournaments and any other games of chance are played within the State’s closely enforced gambling laws. Laurie Whittaker, Morales’ partner and Sidelines’ co-owner, agrees (although she insists with the merest suggestion of a butter-wouldn’t-melt-inher-mouth smile that “what happens in the smokers’ patio, stays…”). The Wax Man Cometh With the April 15 deadline for filing Federal income taxes fast approaching, Bliss Spa at the W Hotel in Fort Lauderdale is offering patrons some “wax relief ” with a 15% discount on its body wax services. The “wax day” “wax break” (these puns almost write themselves) runs through the 22nd, with inspa de-fuzzing demos starting on the 15th. Court-Ordered Sessions One of the most startling workplace statistics in recent years is the increase in the number of cases of reported sexual harassment of men by other men. According to Newsweek, “Between 1992 and 2008, the percentage of sexualharassment charges filed by men with the [Equal Employment Opportunity Commission] doubled from 8 percent to 16 percent.” Although these stats concern Steven Rowe of Multidemensional Wealth Management, he says with confidence they don’t bear any measure on his recent decision to hire an intern. Of the runway model-looking Moscow-transplant he recently brought on board to learn the financial services business, Rowe acknowledges: “I hired him because he kicks my butt at tennis.” While there were other factors contributing to the hire, Rowe says that employers are always looking for that unquantifiable unknown. “The office gets a dedicated staffer who wants to cut his teeth in a professional environment, and I get someone who ranked in the Top 50 on the pro circuit. It’s win-win.” Behold the X-Factor. H
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The Cowboy One of my favorite things about the gay community in Florida is the amount of events we have and how many people get involved. Be it Mardi Gras, Cinqo De Mayo, Halloween or whatever, the community gets dressed up and brings the event for all to enjoy. I have never been to a place in the world that comes together so wonderfully for an event. The outfits, the vibe – it all works, and this weekend will undoubtedly be no different. It’s the Gay Rodeo. I have personally never been to, or to be honest, heard of a Gay Rodeo before. As this weekends’ festivities approach, however, I am sure Wilton Manors will look like an extras break on the set of a fullscale western. I am picturing buckles and Stetsons as far as the eye can see. I’ve started thinking about cowboys. What is it exactly that makes them so attractive? The cowboy has long been a staple of gay fantasy, alongside cops and construction workers. Then Brokeback Mountain came along and with it Willie Nelson’s song that explained cowboys are ‘secretly frequently fond of each other’. So, is it just fantasy based on tight jeans and a bad boy image? Or maybe the cowboy speaks to more than we think. Historically, some men were drawn to the frontier because they were attracted to men. In a region where men significantly outnumbered women, social events normally attended by both sexes were at times men only, and men would partner up with one another for dances. Homosexual acts between young, unmarried men occurred, but cowboy culture itself was and remains deeply homophobic; so what on earth do we want to be involved with that for? Because it’s fun, it’s dangerous and it’s HOT. Besides that was then. Now the ‘gay cowboy’ is a hugely attractive concept. As there will be many in Florida this weekend, let’s get down to why we can’t help but love a cowboy. First off, there is the look. The hat, the boots the tight jeans, that toothpick hanging out of his mouth and that plaid shirt that’s just a bit tight on the arms. Then the undeniable masculinity of a cowboy –
DEAR EDITOR, As mentioned in last week’s Agenda, on air commentator Michael Cole has taken on what is known in the business as a heel roll; a bad guy so to speak. But he may have taken his character a little too far when last week he called fellow commentator Josh Matthews a “Faggot” on his twitter feed. Cole sent a follow up tweet, “I apologize to any and all who were offended by my tweet toward young Josh Matthews. It was obviously not meant the way it was taken”. This comes a few days before the WWE’s biggest event of the year Wrestlemania, and just one week after the WWE announced a partnership with GLAAD due to Superstar John Cena’s constant mockery of the sexuality of fellow wrestlers The Rock and The Miz. I contacted the corporate headquarters of WWE in Stamford, Connecticut, to seek a comment from their public relations depart-
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he doesn’t use moisturizers or product, he’s raw and a bit of rough. He walks the planes alone with no human contact as such, just him and his animals. He doesn’t need anyone. He is a loner; he speaks to that need for protection. The idea, undoubtedly, attracts the feelings of isolation many feel within the community. Of course, there is also that desire to have independence. Then there is the gun, giving that romantic image just that little bit of danger, but he uses it to hunt and protect, rather than to shoot up a Miami club. He has morals (well, at least in the fantasy). He has honor and he will fight to protect that. The cowboy of our dreams can control large, strong animals with just a rope, taking the imagination further into the sexual psyche. Due to the work he does, he is in incredible physical shape – no fat – just pure outdoorsman muscle. He has a sexual power and magnetism that no other fantasy character has. He doesn’t have authority like the cop, or brute strength like the construction worker. Dime store novels and movies have given him a sensitive side, a romantic heart that can be melted. He will sweep you off your feet and/or hog tie you at the same time. We are attracted to the other side, the sensitive side, to a strong and silent mystique. We can reach in and identify with the ‘reality vs. the reality’. The image the cowboy gives off is strong and unassuming. He’s simply a man. Then there are all the other trappings: That devil-may-care attitude as he rides that bucking bronc. The stubble that’s rough, not because he is metrosexual but because he is a real man – it isn’t sculpted, it’s natural. The tan isn’t from a salon or from lying on Sebastian Beach, he got it working hard outside in the fresh air. Look back at the westerns with Clint Eastwood – he was the quintessential straight man. He oozes masculinity and is always the hero. Remember, Florida is still predominantly horse country. Standing in a bar in Fort Lauderdale (unless it’s Scandals) you could very easily forget that a cowboy isn’t that far away. I am not suggesting
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Alex Vaughn you even dream of riding out to Davie to try and seduce a cowboy. However, do get into the vibe this weekend, get your boots and jeans on, put that hat on and enjoy the ride. H
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Alex Vaugn is the Editor-in-Chief of the Florida Agenda. He can be reached at editor@FloridaAgenda.com
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CORRECTION I would like to sincerely apologize for the incorrect picture used of Judy Shepherd on the cover of issue 71 of The Florida Agenda, last week March 31st. Judy Shepherd has been a constant and consistent contributor to our community and is undergoing treatment for cancer. The Pride Center has set up a fund to help contribute to her medical bills. Donations can be made at the Pride Center, or by visiting www.pridecenterflorida.org. Although we make every effort to prevent errors from being published, I regret that they do occasionally occur and I apologize for any offence or upset this oversight may have caused. – Alex Vaughn
Please send all your comments and letters to editor@FloridaAgenda.com
ment. My phone number was taken down but as of writing this no one has called me back. The WWE did release an official statement which read: “World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) will be working with GLAAD to create and promote an anti-bullying initiative aimed at their core audience, and has invited us to conduct trainings for their staff of writers and editors. GLAAD contacted WWE executives and explained the problem after receiving our first reports. They then spoke to John Cena and the show’s writers. We have been assured that not only will such incidents not happen again, WWE intends to reach out to their adolescent audience, with messages aimed making it clear that bullying someone with homophobic taunts or for their perceived sexual orientation is wrong.” Rival wrestling company, Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, may be the best represen-
General Manager JAMIE FORSYTHE Administrator CHRIS HAMEL
tation of the LGBT community in a very machismo sect of professional sports. Orlando Jordan is publically bisexual in and out of the ring. The only public relations officer I could reach was Mike Greenblatt from Ring of Honor wrestling. Mike said ROH has no gay characters and there are no gay wrestlers to his knowledge. When asked if he thought the word “Faggot” could be taken wrong like Cole said, Mike replied, “That word is a sexual slur. How can it be misconstrued? There’s no call for it.” Mike also said that ROH would “support an antibullying campaign from GLAAD and that an ROH wrestler would absolutely receive the support of the company.” The WWE says they are committed to debunking bullying and homophobic actions on air, but as far as I’m concerned actions speak louder than words. – RYAN DIXON
EXECUTIVE EDITOR/ FOUNDER OF MARKSLIST MARK HAINES
DISPLAY AD DEADLINES: Placement by Fridays, 5 p.m. Camera Ready Artwork by Mondays, Noon CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINES: Placement by Mondays, 5 p.m. Artwork by Mondays, Noon ALL MATERIAL in the Florida Agenda is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the Florida Agenda. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers and cartoonists published herein is neither inferred or implied. The appearance of names or pictorial representation does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of that person or persons. Although this paper is supported by many fine advertisers, the Agenda cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers. EDITORIAL POSITIONS of the Florida Agenda are expressed in editorials and in editors’ notes as determined by the paper’s editors. Other opinions are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Florida Agenda or its staff. TO SUBMIT A LETTER OR COMMENTARY: Letters should be fewer than 400 words; commentaries should be fewer than 750 words. Submissions may be edited for content and length, and must include a name, address and phone number for verification. Send submissions by e-mail to Editor@floridaagenda.com by fax to 954566-7900 or by regular mail to the Agenda office, attn: Letters/Commentary.
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Lake Worth City Manager Her Own Worst Enemy
Lake Worth City Manager Susan Stanton
By TONY PLAKAS
Lake Worth City Manager Susan Stanton is losing another important popularity contest. Terminated from her city manager job in Largo for disclosing that she is transgender and for announcing her intent to undergo gender reassignment in 2007, Stanton failed to organize enough professional support to keep the position as a woman, despite successfully filling the role for 16 years as a man. Her story became national, influencing many governmental agencies across Florida to enact laws prohibiting such discrimination in the hopes that her experience would never be repeated. In 2009, Stanton semi-nestled into the overwhelmingly challenging but extraordinarily accepting community that is Lake Worth, a city that gambled all hopes on her leadership as a great new city manager, regardless of her sexual orientation or gender identity. We all yearned for someone who could bring together divided factions and diminish the frivolity that obscures the economic prosperity and negotiated quality of life we collectively desire in our paradise by the sea.
But where Stanton has not semi-nestled, she has thoroughly vexed. And the most unlikely of allies are making the most frantic of coordinated claims because, in the end, she is simply not well-liked. It's her style. She marginalizes herself with her own brashness, a trait she continues to defend even though it continues to offend — and her stubbornness is not gaining her any ground. Now, some are questioning her commitment to the diverse community she was hired to serve, while others are concerned the city is headed for the same sound-bite-turned-swan-song sung across the state when she was forced from her previous position. Stanton's annual performance review is next week, and it appears everyone is desperate to make sure their grievances are recorded for the public record, and for the public file that will soon contain her evaluation. So the city that last week celebrated pride is in a siege aimed at ousting Stanton, who seems so cemented in her approach she refuses to entertain suggestions that she be more conciliatory and thoughtful in her communications within and outside the city.
Photos courtesy, The Palm Beach Post & Tony Plakas
Watch this now: Joyous reunion as rescued dog and her owner greet after tsunami. Because Stanton has chosen not to moderate her tone to usher people through a time of dramatic change, many residents are looking to embrace any claim that sticks to see her go. Many others are looking for the soundest of arguments to prevent a repeat performance of her gender transition taking center stage. But as is typical, loud, activated crowds have a tendency to not hear one another speak, and unlikely allies have the most difficult time aligning their strategies and crusades with one another, even when they have common goals. However, through all the noise, one
request is emerging: Evaluate Stanton's performance based on merit. Enough people believe enough evidence of discontent exists to warrant her dismissal, and residents are turning to the commission as the court of last resort. They are done waiting for Stanton to play nice, and they are more than willing to make sure everyone sees how often she plays nasty, even if her leadership style is what makes her so unpopular. – First published in the Sun-Sentinel.H
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Tony Plakas is the CEO of Compass, the gay and lesbian community center for Lake Worth and the Palm Beaches. He can be reached at homerule@post.harvard.edu.
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Home /Travel / Fitness Profile / Fashion / Recipe THE STYLE VOICE OF THE LGBT COMMUNITY
Inside this issue...
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n this issue we have you covered for the Rodeo. Lasso the look, with our urban cowboy chic feature for every budget. Get up close and personal with the groundbreaking Renée Richards, put the cell phone away at Home and put on the Ritz with Travel. Also enjoy your favorites, recipe, fitness, and outs in Florida.H – AV
Puttin’ on the Ritz! Travel PAGE 31 The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles
Stop n’ Smell the Roses q
Renée Richards
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A Reluctant Pioneer Profile PAGE 23
Always Make Time to Sweat!
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Cowboy Chic Lasso the Look!
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Photos courtesy, René Richards, The Ritz Carlton Los Angeles, iStock, zootwoclothing.com
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A Reluctant Pioneer Renée Richards By ALEX VAUGHN Renée Richards was an American ophthalmologist, author and former professional tennis player. In 1975, Richards underwent sex reassignment surgery. She is famously known for initially being denied entry into the 1976 US Open by the United States Tennis Association, citing an unprecedented women-bornwomen policy. She disputed the ban and, in a landmark 1977 decision for transgender rights, the New York Supreme Court ruled in her favor. The USTA was forbidden from forcing her to submit to chromosal testing before allowing her to play. Richards, who is Jewish, was born in New York City and named Richard Raskind, and raised, in her own words, as "a nice Jewish boy". Raskind reached the final of the men's national 35-andover tennis championships in 1972. Raskind was referred to surgeon Roberto C. Granato, Sr. by Harry Benjamin and successfully transitioned in 1975. Richards played from 1977 to 1981. She was ranked as high as 20th overall (February 1979), and her highest ranking at the end of a year was 22nd (1977). In her first professional event as a female, she was a finalist in women's doubles (with Betty Ann Stuart, 1977) and continued to have a successful career afterward. She later coached Martina Navratilova to two Wimbledon wins and was inducted into the USTA Eastern Tennis Hall of Fame in 2000. Agenda sat down with Renée to discuss her life on the cusp of the premiere of the most comprehensive documentary about her to date, entitled simply, Renée. The film is one of the anchor films of the 2011 Tribeca/ESPN Sports Film Festival, where it will have its world premiere in April.
In spite of my efforts after my sex change to live a quiet normal life in Newport, California, I got found out because I played some tennis at my Country Club. I was warned to stay off the courts! Though I didn’t see the need to avoid my passion – I couldn’t help my identity. I suppose I became a pioneer when I decided to fight, a lot of people told me to go ahead, as I was representing not just transsexuals but those facing any kind of discrimination.
There has been a misconception that you had your sex change so that you could play women’s professional tennis. If that’s not the case, could you explain further what changed your mind about being an eye doctor and instead going on to the women’s professional tour, and eventually the US Open? Do you think anyone in their right or wrong mind would have a sex change just to be a tennis player! I played tennis successfully before the sex change. In fact, in my younger days I was the quintessential amateur sportsman. I had the sex change because I was compelled to do so. There were many factors: Nurture, nature, hormones and genetics. There were all kinds of influences.
Who did you lean on during this time? Who supported you? I had a lot of support from within the tennis community. Jean from Tennis Week arranged the infamous Orange Court Tournament. They even had a special tournament for me in Hawaii. Billy Jean King was instrumental in helping me win my case. She provided an Affidavit that I believe sealed the deal. She said she saw no reason why I shouldn’t be allowed to play, that I was a woman in my mind and body and that she had played a couple of doubles with me. We were in the courtroom and the judge was wading through the affidavits from the other side. He asked my lawyers if they had any. We said, ‘yes, from Billy Jean King’. He nearly jumped out of his seat. Martina Navratilova said to me after she beat me at a match, “Renée, keep up the fight. You are going to make it”. That was a tremendous encouragement.
Was there a point at which you decided to become a pioneer, or did it evolve and eventually become a passion?
Do you still feel that passion? Yes, I don’t regret my decision to have the sex change. However, it did change my life. I was on my way to ‘woodworking’ into my new life. Nowadays woodworking [blending into society] is not necessary, as there are so many transsexuals going on TV.
A documentary about Renée Richards, titled Renée, is one of the anchor films of the 2011 Tribeca/ESPN Sports Film Festival in April.
Photos courtesy, Renée Richards
You have been credited with turning Martina’s career around. I do get a lot of credit, I only accept some. It was a wonderful experience coaching her.
Once I was found out, I knew I had a choice: Continue my practice or play tennis.
That support must have helped in the fight. Yes, I would say a lot of the reason I pushed so strongly was because I was told I couldn’t do it. I am obstinate, so that is the worst thing you could say to me. I was warned to just stay in Newport and play tennis at the club. Maybe I would have preferred that. I was told by friends not to become a public enemy. When you decided to become a pro tennis player, you legitimized transsexuals in sports. How do you feel about that? I am proud of what I have done and I don’t regret my sex change; however the ruling was for me as an older individual, not for all transsexuals still to come. Do you give any weight to the idea of competitive advantage? Well yes, I was forty one when I won the right to play. If I had been given that right at twenty, it would have been incredibly unfair. How do you feel about the young woman from Germany playing tennis, and the young woman on LPGA tour? What advice do you have for them?
As I said, I would be aware of the competitive advantage. I don’t even feel I am best place to give advice. The ruling for me was as an individual – it was not a blanket ruling. I get into trouble when giving advice. There was a mountain biker and I said she should do it for fun, not as a competitive sport because she would have been too strong. How did winning the right to play impact you? It changed my life. I was somewhat unprepared for the slings and arrows I encountered. How would you like to be remembered? I don’t think as a pioneer. As a good person, a good parent, a good doctor and a good tennis player. I have regrets about making that fateful decision to carry on the fight. Mainly my loss of privacy. Looking back there are some regrets, but not a lot. My life would have been a lot different as a private citizen. I had been a very private person in my former life. You have a movie coming out. How is this different from other pieces done on you? It is terrific. I know I will be back in the public eye again. I have a beautiful gown for the premier. I am extremely excited. This is by far the most thorough documentary on me. The director has spent two and half years interviewing my friends and family and professionals from the tennis community. Both those against and for me. H
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Stop n’ Smell the Roses Always Make Time to Sweat! By TOM BONANTI Maintaining a fitness lifestyle can be a daunting endeavor for even the most dedicated enthusiast. Adhering to a schedule of healthy eating, keeping up with regular medical check-ups and getting enough sleep are simply a beginning. Sticking to these basic habits along with meeting the demands of work and a social life can be overwhelming. So how do you squeeze in a regular exercise program on top of everything else? I say, you make time for the things that are important to you – and there is nothing more vital than your own good health. Working out with weights and doing regular cardio, if you do them correctly, are draining and time consuming. Yet their benefits are infinite. You’ll not only look better, you’ll live longer and save hundreds of thousands of dollars in health care expenses. Doubt me? Just get sick, I mean really sick – like a week in the hospital – and you’ll see what I mean. Sometimes I get particularly annoyed looking around at the guys who put staying healthy and working out on the back burner. Aside from work and loved ones,
these should be top priorities for everyone. Yet pampered expensive cruises and vacations, wild weekend partying and hours on Grindr and Scruff seem to take precedence as waistlines widen and butts grow lazier. Sure, there are short cuts available like plastic surgery and steroids, but these are quick patchy fixes compared to what discipline and hard work can achieve. A beautiful body, like any work of art, is the result of sacrifice, dedication and lots of labor. Why not start today and design a winning strategy to get and stay healthy, fit and fabulous. Consider these three factors as you ponder a program: schedule flexibility, workout simplification, and diversification. Schedule flexibility is crucial in these times of unplanned events, chaotic traffic and even more chaotic work schedules. A sharp guy begins the day with a plan so he can accomplish everything that is important. And nothing is more important than your workout, so schedule a time and try to stick with it. Join a gym that is convenient, preferably located between work and home. Most gyms have extended hours, so if you get derailed don’t
“There is nothing more vital than your own good health.”
get flustered. Your body responds to exercise, whether at 7AM or 7 PM. Make it happen. Workout simplification and diversification allow you to train regardless of what you had planned and where you had planned it. If you were set to hit the weight room at 6 PM, but had to work late, then pump-up at home. A few weights are inexpensive, but they can make a big difference on days you don’t get to the gym. And if you’re too tired to lift, then do some push-ups, crunches and stretches. Bike around the neighborhood. Take a swim. Do something – Do anything! Just put those muscles in motion, burn some calories and get that heart pumping! Of all the investments you’ll make, a commitment to regular exercise will reap the greatest benefits. It’s spring, a time for new beginnings. Put down that phone, get off that lounge chair or bar stool, toss away the drink and schedule regular time at the gym. Life is too short to miss out on being all that you can be. H
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Cowboy Chic
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Southfork Ranch Palm Leaf Straw cowboy hat $51 www.hatcountry.com
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Lasso The Look! By ALEX VAUGHN & ERIC CHRISTIAN The American cowboy roamed the plains west of the Mississippi River in the mid- to late-nineteenth century. The cowboy developed a functional manner of dress that suited his unique lifestyle. The American cowboys borrowed much of their clothing, along with many of their customs, from the earlier vaqueros, herdsmen of Mexican and American Indian descent who migrated northward over the Rio Grande River into Texas. Necessity also dictated a lot of the cowboy's attire. A typical cowboy outfit consisted of a muslin (sheer cotton fabric) shirt with a waistcoat (similar to a vest), and denim or buckskin trousers. Chaps were made of leather or animal hide, often with the fur left on the outside, and covered only the front of the legs to allow for freedom of movement. Chaps were attached by a belt at the waist and tied along the back of the legs. Some early chaps were fringed at the seams. Another essential component of cowboy style was the wide-brimmed hat, designed to protect the wearer from the harsh elements of the open plain, especially the blistering sun. A kerchief tied loosely around the neck performed a variety of functions for the cowboy. He could use it to protect his mouth and nose from dust, cover the back of his neck to prevent sunburn, or tie it around his head to keep his hat from blowing off on windy days. It could even be used as a makeshift sling for a broken arm. Red was the preferred color for these versatile bandanas, often called wipes. Still popular in the twenty-first century is the cowboy boot, the most expensive part of the cowboy's wardrobe. A high "Cuban heel" prevented the wearer's foot from slipping through his stirrup. When dismounting from a horse, the heels dug into the ground to ensure good footing. Early cowboy boots had square toes, though round and pointed styles eventually came into fashion. By the 1890s, fancy cowboy boots were being sold through mail-order catalogs. While the cowboy era lasted barely a generation, the cowboy style lives on in the form of dime novels, movie serials, and television programs and remains a popular style of dress for many people in the United States. H
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Dakota Slim black cowboy hat $49 www.zootwoclothing.com
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Retro Western Red cowboy shirt $64 www.country-cowboy.com
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Southern Pride Forever belt buckle $15 www.shelpers.com
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Abercrombie & Fitch South Notch plaid shirt $70 www.gearpatrol.com
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Guess eagle embossed plaque belt $40 http://shop.guess.com
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Jean Shop leather cowboy shirt $1000 www.mrporter.com
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Custom-made leather chaps www.leatherwerks.com Rios of Mercedes Navy Blue Stingray boots $636 www.bootstaronline.com
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Eric Christian is a style consultant. Eric@styleconciergemiami.com www.styleconciergemiami.com
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‘Off to Buffalo’ sand cowboy hat $49 www.zootwoclothing.com
Lucchese Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake boots $1436 www.bootstaronline.com
Cowboy-cut Wrangler jeans $45 www.wrangler.com
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home / recipe
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Life Before Cell Phones By MICHAEL FRENCH
Once upon a time, there was life without cell phones! Yes, Virginia, it’s true. From the get-go, I want to make one thing perfectly clear: I’m NOT anti-cellphone. I have one of my own and I appreciate its usefulness in my everyday life. These electronic wonders definitely have their utilitarian purposes. They are entertainment centers, and mass communication hubs. We rely on them to wake us up, organize our days, remind us about anniversaries, birthdays and waxing appointments, and store every-
jean’s kitchen
one’s phone number (some of which we probably should lose!). Thanks to cell phones, it’s easier to remain connected with the people we love. They help us complete “honey do” lists, are great business tools and are invaluable in an emergency. There are countless uses for the gadgets. The warp speed of the cell phone’s evolution has only fueled the fire of our insatiable demand for immediate gratification. The photo you asked a handsome stranger to take moments ago of you and the gorgeous guy you just met at a Parisian night club, by just pressing a few buttons, can be on its way to a thousand of your closest friends all over the world. No matter whether one is sitting at the other side of a bar or in Timbuktu, thanks to the cell phone you can be reached by anyone, whenever, and wherever. That being said, it’s become more of challenge to turn the world “off ”, even in our own homes. The “moat of privacy” afforded to us, wherever we call home, is relentlessly being breached by “THE PHONE”. Like most of man’s creations, including cell phones, there can be too much of a good thing. Gee, just how DID we survive before it was taken for granted everyone did and “should” have a cell phone making us accessible 24/7? Are
Moelleux au Chocolat
This ultra moist little cake with the soft "sunken" center should be served warm with its velvety molten chocolate flowing seductively onto the plate … it’s easy to make and sinfully delicious. • 2/3 cup butter, plus more for greasing • 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped • 4 eggs • 2/3 cup sugar • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Butter 6 ramekins and line with a disk of parchment paper, then butter the parchment. In a double boiler, bowl or saucepan, very gently melt the butter and chocolate together over a bain-marie or water bath. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs
and sugar until thick, pale, and ribbony (it’s best to use an electric mixer, or else you’ll just break out a sweat!) Beat in the flour, and, finally, the chocolate mixture. Pour the mixture into the ramekins and chill. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet, and bake until the top is set, about 12 to 14 minutes. Remove. Let sit for 5 minutes, before unmolding onto your serving dishes. Serve with any kind of fresh fruit or, if you like, whipped cream or vanilla ice cream ... .you are the chef. H
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Jean Doherty is the Chef and Owner of Le Patio Restaurant in Wilton Manors (954) 530-4641
you a slave to your cell phone? Would you step over a fallen old lady because you’re so entrenched in your phone conversation? Is your phone a siren-like temptress you just cannot resist, no matter what you’re doing or who you’re with? This “Baby Boomer” has laughed to himself many times hearing someone declare “I couldn’t live without my cell!” It’s alarming because they really believe what they’re saying! As far as I can remember, the world “BC” (before cell phones) was a pretty wonderful place; I grew up in it. As much as I do appreciate my own phone and the conveniences it affords me, I know without a doubt I’d live very well if the cell phone suddenly didn’t exist anymore. I do turn my phone OFF often when I get home. When I’m home, I like to “return” to a world “Before Cell Phones”. I have a drawer I put it in. I leave it there for at least an hour, just to give myself some “alone” time. I’m HOME, and good enough company for myself to not feel the need to be texting, “Googling”, etc. Give it a rest already! Hey, if I don’t hear the phone, I’m not refusing or even tempted to answer it. Right? I like, when I’m able, to choose the sounds I hear, like music or the cardinal’s song in my garden, or maybe even
just, God forbid, no sound at all! These feelings don’t make me antisocial, misanthropic or old fashioned. My cell phone does not sit next to me at the dinner table. When I’m home I like to do my gardening, bond with my dogs, write, or maybe just DO NOTHING but sit outside by the pool, listening to the fountains, the birds and the rustle of breeze blowing through the bamboo. And, if I’m lucky enough, at home, I just might have a friend or special someone with whom I’ll have some precious time to share. It’s them who deserve my undivided attention. Now, where did I leave my phone? Only kidding! H
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Michael French, is Agenda’s Home from Home columnist. Contact Michael at mf7954fla@gmail.com
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travel
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Puttin’ on the Ritz Relaxing in Downtown Los Angeles By PAUL RUBIO Up until a few years ago, Downtown Los Angeles was the city’s Achilles Heel, an urban wasteland riddled with crime and grime. But thanks to large-scale investment and optimistic intervention, downtown is now in the process of an Extreme Makeover, emerging as a rejuvenated princess in the land of glitz and glamor, ready to take on the world with a new attitude. The anchor of this redux? The Staples Center (home of the L.A. Lakers) and the surrounding L.A. LIVE area, which has attracted the likes of the Ritz-Carlton, loft developers and restaurateurs looking to create a new type of L.A. experience. Exiting the 110 freeway, downtown’s nips and tucks are immediately obvious. Eclectic coffee shops have replaced crack houses, funky lofts have moved in where sketchy, abandoned towers once stood. I had not ventured to downtown L.A. in a decade, simply because I had no reason to! But it was already clear, I now had much to discover. I pulled into the driveway of The RitzCarlton, Los Angeles, where a number of helpful valet attendants showered me with lots of attention and assistance (www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/L osAngeles, 213.743.8800). The lobby of the Ritz was small and simple, the check-in process short. Like some of Tokyo and Shanghai’s greatest hotels, the focus at the Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles lies in the room product and the stunning panoramas from the upper floors, which actually house the hotel. In fact, the 123-room Ritz-Carlton begins on the 22nd floor and ends on the 26th, with the neighboring JW Marriott hotel comprising the lower levels and then spilling over to a second building. The Ritz’s
speedy elevators lead directly to floor 22 and to the floors with amenities available exclusively to Ritz-Carlton guests (like the rooftop pool, the 26th floor gym, and the Club Lounge). The rooms parlay a remarkable evolution of the Ritz-Carlton brand, with a contemporary yet refined interior design. I had seen the Ritz truly break out of its traditional comfort zone on my travels to Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Barcelona; it was refreshing to see this new product style implemented here on the home front. The exceptionally wellappointed furnishings boast clean symmetries, channeling attention towards the wall-to-wall panoramic window, lined with a sumptuous day bed, peering over the Hollywood Hills and greater Los Angeles. The mega bathrooms are separated into three sections, most notably a wet area where a rain shower and oversized Jacuzzi sit side by side, encased in glass, with perfect views of L.A. It was one of those rare times I was so captivated by my hotel room, I suddenly lost the desire to do anything but enjoy an inspiring read or a glass of champagne in my temporary Zen den and forget the world around me. So, I went up one floor to the Club Lounge with the simple task of getting that glass of champagne. But when I got there, I was utterly and completely seduced by my surroundings. The Club Lounge was big and beautiful, teeming with celebrities, famous basketball players, and decorated with elaborate food presentations that quickly instigated pangs of hunger. So, it was now official. I gave myself the rest of the day off to simply enjoy haute living at the Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles’
The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge
Club lounge – to eat far too many goat cheese stuffed peppers, sample some fine imported cheeses and French macaroons, eavesdrop on the A-list, chat with the Lakers’ competition, relish in birdseye views of the city tableside telescopes and, of course, indulge in one too many glasses of champagne! After several weeks on the road, this good life at The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, was no doubt a divine intervention. I began the following morning with a swim on the hotel’s rooftop pool and an extended hot tub session to combat the chilly breeze. I then met friends for lunch at Kerry Simon’s highly acclaimed L.A. Market Restaurant ( w w w. l a l i v e . c o m / e a t / l a m a r k e t , 213.743.8800), located on the lobby level of the adjacent JW Marriot. Simon’s fresh comfort creations, like my “LA Market Green Salad” with crispy shallots, shaved asparagus, poached organic egg and topped with rosemary grilled shrimp, epitomize the farm to table trends of modern American cooking. A few cocktails later, it was an after-
noon of much deserved R &R at the Ritz’s first class spa pampering palace. The sparkling snow-white spa provides the full throttle fabulous spa experience. The vanguard relaxation room boasts oversized reclining chairs and frilly, draped couches for delicious tranquility before and after treatments. The Eucalyptus steam room facilitates the ultimate in stress relief. The treatment rooms are stylish and cozy, unlike the stale, cosmetology office-types I’ve seen in way too many hotels. Indeed, I was ready to conquer the world after my 80minute deep tissue and definitely ready to venture out into greater L.A.!H
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Paul Rubio, LGBT Travel writer, has authored numerous articles and an award winning book Out Traveler: South Florida. Paul can be reached at editor@FloridaAgenda.com
Club Level
A Suite at the Ritz-Carlton
Photos courtesy of The Ritz Carlton Los Angeles; Photography by Ryan Gobuty & Ron Starr
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Fort Lauderdale BEAR CODES PRESENTS SPLASH! Saturday, April 30, from 2 to 8 p.m. in Fort Lauderdale at the Royal Palms Resort, 2901 Terramar Street. Monthly pool parties for bears, cubs, chubs, chasers and friends. Join them at the new Royal Palms Resort and Spa for the Official Opening Party of Splash with live deejays and more. The Royal Palms Boutique Hotel offers luxurious rooms, a full bar, a café serving great food and a full service spa and gym. And yes … a clothing-optional heated pool, so come in your swimsuits or your birthday suit… the choice is yours. As appreciation for your continued support of Bear Codes, they are extending to those that RSVP for the opening party event only, no cover charge (normal cover is $7). You must RSVP on Facebook to receive the free entry and you can only RSVP yourself. There will be an RSVP list at the door. Help spread the word and invite your friends on the invite link on the event page and give them a chance to RSVP and get the newest hottest pool party grand opening for free. Splash will be held monthly.H
IGLTA'S ANNUAL GLOBAL CONFERENCE Unleash your hidden talents at IGLTA's Annual Global Convention. Professionals from around the world will unite in Fort Lauderdale May 10-15, 2011, to network, educate, brainstorm and take LGBT tourism to unprecedented levels. Educational programming, Unleashed 2.0, will serve as the cornerstone of future business development. Sessions will cater to all experience levels in social media, internet marketing and new travel technology trends to help you reach customers in a more efficient way. Mark your calendars now! This will be the mustattend event of 2011. Don't let your competitors leave you behind.H
STONEWALL STREET FESTIVAL AND PARADE Sunday, Jun 19, 2011, in Wilton Manors from 3 to 8 p.m. Continues the Wilton Manors Stonewall tradition and adds some surprises & new highlights. The festival stretches from 5 Points to NE 20th Street on Wilton Drive with multiple stages filled with exciting entertainment, exhibits from sponsors, merchants, and area non-profits, demonstrations, games, street performers and an exciting assortment of gourmet food trucks and beverage stations. The twilight parade features floats from near and far. For more info check out www.stonewallwiltonmanors.com. H
out in florida
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Miami LADY GAGA MONSTER BALL APRIL 2011 Wednesday, Apr 13, from 8 to 11 p.m. at the American Airlines Arena in Miami. The Scissor Sisters and Semi Precious Weapons have been selected as the opening acts for the third North American leg of Lady Gaga’s Monster Ball tour. H
MISS RICHFIELD 1981 IS HEADING TO MIAMI Miss Richfield 1981 is coming to Miami for the very first time to officially kickoff Miami Beach Pride with a performance at the Colony Theater on April 15 at 8 p.m. A portion of the tickets and proceeds from a raffle will benefit Miami Beach Pride and GLAAD. In her new show, “30 Years on the Throne!,” Miss R. looks back at her storybook life celebrating three decades of beauty sovereignty as reigning queen of Richfield, Minnesota, “where butter is a spice and gravy is a beverage.” Miss Richfield has appeared on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, “Today” on NBC, “Cake Boss” on TLC and “Weekends with Samantha Brown” on Travel Channel. Her live performances have received critical acclaim and The New York Post recently honored “Miss Richfield 1981” as the must-see act in Provincetown”. Tickets are $25/$35 and are available at the Colony Theater Box Office or www.missrichfield.com. Miss Richfield 1981 will host an after-party at Mova Lounge following the show.H
MIAMI BEACH PRIDE On Saturday, April 16, Miami Beach will be more fabulous than ever! Miami Beach City Mayor Matti Bower, your friends, family and allies celebrate the 3rd annual Miami Beach Gay Pride parade and festival. It's a celebration of the extraordinary strength, beauty and contributions of South Florida’s LGBT community, and an exciting all-day event that featured a parade, a festival with exciting celebrity presentations and musical performances, and an expo with LGBTfriendly vendors and businesses, refreshments and food, and a family-friendly “playzone”. Miami Beach Gay Pride is an extraordinary celebration that brings out the best in us all. Last year's pride event brought out over 35,000 people from all walks of life and cities from across Florida -- and across the world -- making Miami Beach Gay Pride the city's largest one-day event. This year will be even better!H
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Central Florida
RENEGADES SPLASH POOL PARTY
SCISSOR SISTERS
After a long morning of softball, come by to cool off with food, beer and Bob’s famous cupcakes, raffles and lots of prizes. Sunday, Apr. 3, from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at Gay St Pete House, 4505 Fifth Avenue North in St. Petersburg. H
Scissor Sisters at Hard Rock Live, Thurs., Apr. 7, 7 to 10 p.m., 6050 Universal Blvd. in Orlando.H
LADY GAGA IN TAMPA Lady Gaga and special guests, Scissor Sisters, will be coming to the St. Pete Times Forum on Saturday, April 16th,from 7 to 11 p.m. Lady Gaga has captivated audiences around the globe with her stunning international smash, “The Monster Ball” tour, presented by Virgin Mobile. In 2010, the tour took her throughout Europe and North American, where she received rave reviews everywhere she stopped. With the majority of North American dates already sold out, Lady Gaga has announced she will be extending her North American 2011 tour, now including a stop at Tampa’s St. Pete Times Forum. H
WET LUBE WRESTLING Tampa Bay RULEs, Sunday Apr 17, 1 to 5 p.m., Chelsea Nightclub, 1502 N. Florida Ave. in Tampa. This month’s event is sponsored by WET. So cum get piggy, wear your rubber, jock or hottest leather, but get ready to get some WET wrestlin' on. Bar opens to the general public from 3 p.m. on. Building leathermen/ fetishmen brotherhood and gathering just for fun without egos and attitudes. Get together to socialize, have a cigar or two, experience a demo, bootblacking services and maybe learn about the brotherhood of community bonding. It's a good ole fashioned leather/fetish tea dance with a new twist… the twist is what you bring and who you are. Always open to suggestions and ideas to promote, build and excite OUR community! This is just the beginning... the future is so bright, let's start burning those candles! tbrulesz@gmail.comH
DIVERSITY SLAM SPRING FLING Friday, Apr 22, 9 p.m. to 12 midnight, L Train, 900 Central Ave., Saint Petersburg. Open mic night spoken word, acoustic jams. H
INTERPOL Thursday, Apr 28, from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Ritz Ybor, 1507 East 7th Avenue in Tampa. $24 advance tickets, all ages.H
GAY BOWLING First Thursday of each month from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Dunedin Bowling Lanes, 405 Patricia Avenue in Dunedin. For more information, call (727) 736-1282. H
RICKY MARTIN LIVE Friday Apr. 8, 2011, in Orlando from 6 to 9 p.m, Amway Center, 400 W Church St. H
THE MONSTER BALL Lady Gaga at the Amway Center, Friday Apr. 15,, 7 to 11:30 p.m., 400 W Church St in Orlando.H
ORLANDO WHITE PARTY Saturday Apr. 16, 201,1 from 8:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Parliament House, 410 N Orange Blossom Trail in downtown Orlando. Time to start planning for one of Orlando’s biggest parties of the year. Featuring Juju Bee, Alexis Mateo, Shangela and Yara Sofia. D.J. Brianna Lee spinning the hits for “Elevate”. White attire encouraged. Rooms are going fast. Book now at www,parliamenthouse.com. H
BABES IN BONNETS FUNDRAISER AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE Monday, Apr 18, 7 to 9:30 p.m., Parliament House, 410 N Orange Blossom Trail in downtown Orlando. This is a citywide event benefiting the Orlando Youth Alliance (OYA), a local charity that provides free of charge, peer-to-peer support groups, education and a positive environment for Orlando's LGBT youth. Hosted by: Darcel Stevens & Michael Wanzie.H
MISS HEART OF ORLANDO PAGEANT This is a preliminary to Miss Heart of Florida. Monday, Apr. 18, from 9 p.m. to 12 midnight at Mr. Sister's, 5310 East Colonial Dr. in Orlando. H
NINA VS. RAJA RuPaul’s Drag Race girls at the Parliament House (410 N Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando), Saturday May 7, 2011, in Orlando from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. 1st runner up of season one, Nina Flowers and top 5 (as it stands right now), Raja of season three will be joining the award winning Footlight Players: Darcel Stevens, V, Armani, Sassy Devine and the Men of the Footlight Theater. Three rooms of music – featuring D.J. Brianna Lee of Gayinternetradiolive.com in the disco, Pop 40 mix in the video bar and hip-hop/pop in the piano bar.H
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1966 FORD MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE mint condition Mustang for car shows or cruising. Nightmist blue / blue interior / white power top. 72,000 original miles. Ready to show and GO. Needs nothing. All original with one $6000 repaint in 2004. Sprint 200 package, 6 cyl. Automatic trans with beautiful optional center console, original wire wheels. $21,900 Call Chris at (404) 273-5800 2008 AUDI A4 2.0T S-Line, 6speed, 20k miles, loaded, rare car! $24,988 Call Dr Bill at (954) 260-9500 2006 NISSAN PATHFINDER SE low miles, alloys, CD, all power options $15,988 Call Dan Roskidany (954) 551-9462 2007 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA 20k miles, all power, loaded nicely for less $14,988 Call Dr Bill at (954) 260-9500
ACCOUNTING TAX PREPARATION SERVICE for individuals and selfemployed. Electronic Filing, Reasonable Fees, Personal Service. Located in Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors area. Call Tom (954) 764-0221 or e-mail taxpreparationservice @yahoo.com
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2005 HONDA ACCORD EX V6 20k miles, leather, alloys, sunroof $14,988 Call Dan Roskidany (954) 551-9462 2007 HONDA ELEMENT EX all power toys, CD, alloy wheels & more, cool! $14,988 Call Dr Bill at (954) 260-9500 2010 CHEVROLET MALIBU LT all power, alloys, CD, Like new $15,987 Call Dan Roskidany (954) 551-9462
DATING MATURE CONTACTS & FRIENDSHIP. The Caffmos Community is a contacts and dating community site for mature men, bears, daddies and their admirers both young and old. Registration and membership is free. Come and join us at: Caffmos Community.com
CLEANING CLEAN IT RITE Best cleaning for your buck. Reliable & affordable. 10 years in business. 1 BR, $$45.00, 2BR, $55.00, & 3BR, $65.00. Manny (954) 560-4443 Broward, Palm Beach, & Dade
COMPUTER SERVICES FREE BRIEF COMPUTER ANSWERS BY ERIC AT THE STONEWALL LIBRARY BY APPOINTMENT Also Affordable In-Home, Installations, Tutoring, Virus Disinfection & Troubleshooting. Knowledgeable, Personable Service. Call Eric (954) 903-4383 or eric@startcomputing.info 2005 FORD ESCAPE XLT all power, alloys, CD & very clean, spotless!!! $7,988 Call Dr Bill at (954) 260-9500 ADVERTISE YOUR USED CAR UNTIL ITS SOLD for only $69. Call Keith Chamlee for more info: (954) 9034781 1997 BMW 328i COVERTIBLE Silver with black top. Gray leather interior. Pwr windows, locks, top, alarm, etc. 120k miles. In time for Spring! $5900. Please call Matt at (954) 465-1563 2005 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER LS All power options, very clean Call Dan Roskidany (954) 5519462 2005 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS LS 1 owner, only 40k miles, leather, all the options $10,988 Call Dr Bill at (954) 260-9500 2007 TOYOTA SOLARA SE Alloys, pwr seat, CD $12,588 Call Dr Bill at (954) 260-9500 2009 TOYOTA COROLLA 3 to choose from, all power, all very clean from $12,988 Call Dan Roskidany (954) 551-946 2010 CHEVROLET HHR LT all power, CD/MP3, alloys, like new $13,988 Call Dr Bill at (954) 260-9500
** OPTIMA** COMPUTER REPAIR-COMPLETE IN HOME SERVICE. Get the best performance, protection & value from your computer investment, *A+ Hardware & OS CERTIFIED. *Friendly, professional, RELIABLE service. Reasonable rates. \Call Mike (954) 817-3883
COUNSELING FREE LIFE COACHING Planning a change in your work? Have questions about your current relationship? Thinking about new priorities in your future? You can meet one of our life coaches for confidential discussions to help you achieve your goals. Estas planeando en cambiar de trabajo? Tienes dudas o preguntas sobre tu relación actual? Has pensado sobre nuevas prioridades en tu futuro? Has una cita con nuestros consejeros personales que te pueden ayudar a alcanzar tus metas en sesiones totalmente confidenciales. Juntos is at 2330 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors. (954) 765-6239. www.latinossalud.org A MIND AT PEACE/ THERAPEUTIC SERVICES/ RON "DOC" CHAMBERS, MSW (954) 627-0103 1975 East Sunrise Blvd Suite 629 Fort Lauderdale HIV Related Issues/Anxiety/Depression/Schizophrenia/Relationship Problems/Anger Management Problems/Same-Sex Battering/Domestic Violence. Most Insurance Accepted/Credit Cards Accepted.
EMPLOYMENT SOUTH BEACH Part-time sales associate for adult bookstore. Send resume to kdbstyle@yahoo.com EXPERIENCED DELI HELP WANTED! (954)873-3889
RECESSION RELIEF-$40/90 MINS! LEAVE YOUR STRESS UP TO ME. Out calls higher. Let Denny make you feel like a Queen. Couples discounts, seniors welcome. New location: Delray Beach. 16 yrs experience. MA 18563. Denny (561) 502-2628. PROFESSIONAL THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE Deep Tissue, Swedish, Reflexology, Stretching, Mon-Sun, 10AM-8PM. In/Out Calls. NON-SEXUAL. Ft Lauderdale. Call Robert (954)494-2372 Lic.# MA 19604
RETAIL SALES POSITIONFull & part-time. Men's clothing store. (954)873-3889 NEW MIAMI BAR A Beautiful and upscale New Gay Bar located in the heart of Downtown Miami is opening soon- we are looking for Barbacks, Security, Bartenders, Cocktail Servers, DJ's, MC, VIP Host, Cashier, Male Dancers. Also looking for an experienced Bar Mgr. and Dance Mgr. Excellent Pay and benefits. Send Photos, Resume, Contact Info to:newmiamiclub@gmail.com TWIST. The popular gay bar in South Beach seeks responsible applicants with experience for the following positions; Bartender, Bar back, Door host and Security. Candidates should be friendly, hardworking and a team player. Apply online: twistboys@aol.com
HOME IMPROVEMENT MASTER ELECTRICIAN- Service Upgrades, interconnected smoke alarms, phone and cable jacks, remodels, etc. No job to small! All work will be done in a neat & clean manner. LIC. CONTRACTORS BUILD CONFIDENCE! Gay owned. Lic#02CME2028X Call 954.665.0417 Derek’s 24 HR HANDYMAN SERVICE. Introducing our new cabinet shop! For all your custom made cabinetry countertops laminates. YOU MUST SEE OUR WORK, just ask our clients. All electrical to code; ANY & ALL plumbing work, Drywall finish work / repair. Crown / baseboard pro-install, interior / exterior painting, demo work, Pressure washing, Decor tile install, Complete home up-dates. For large jobs, 4-man crew available. WE CAN HANDLE IT ALL! Instant call back, direct service response. No job is ever too small. Excellent references. Derek (954) 825-5598 or Email: DerekGallaway@att.net
MOVING ELITE RELOCATION MOVING & STORAGE We've provided quality moves for over 30 years. It's always a smooth move when you choose Elite Relocation. Contact us today: 954975-8660 elitemoving.com GUYS and DOLLIES. Moving * Storage * Packing * Crating * Shipping. “A” Rated Member of the BBB Register Movers since 1976. Major credit cards accepted. For free price quote, Call (954) 566-1270
PET SITTING WILTON MANORS ELITE PET SITTERS…CATS, DOGS, BIRDS, ETC…Why put your pet in a kennel? We will come to your home and care for your pets! While you are away, we will make your home look lived in by bringing in the mail, watering plants, managing lighting, etc. 14 years experience. Bonded and Insured. Call Tony 954.888.8909 or Donna 954.804.2106
REAL ESTATE FLORIDA IS ON SALE - FT LAUDERDALE & MIAMI. Yes now is the time to buy!! Not finding what you’re looking for? Frustrated? Too busy? Visiting and don’t know where to start? Tell me what you’re looking for and I’ll do all the work and find you the perfect place. For HOT deals, Short sales, Foreclosures, and Rentals. Call Joann Marcus/ Kensington & Company. Cell (954)940-1244
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Classifieds REAL ESTATE POMPANO BEACH 1/1 CONDO- screened patio poolside, tiled entry/kitchen/bath, hardwood floors, CAC, low maint. fees. 5 mins to beach! Pet Friendly! 47K OBO. (954)7821499 PUT YOUR IRA ON STEROIDS! Use your IRA to buy wholesale bank owned real estate and create a 12 % plus annual cash on cash return. Turn Key Real Estate company helps you buy a wholesale bank owned foreclosure with equity. Company also provides affordable renovation teams and property managers. Build wealth today with our proven 20 year turn key acquisition and management program. Contact Robert for more information. 954-336-0436 www.robertblairrealestate.com
RENTALS / FTL WILTON MANORS 2BR/1BA- extra large garden apartment with private backyard. CAC, W/D,one mile to Alibi. Pets OK. $950/mo. EZ Qualify (954) 610-3310 WILTON STATION- 2-2.5 TOWNHOUSE TO SHARELooking for a nice, responsible roommate. Furnished or unfurn. Room with balcony. No Smoking, drugs, or pets. $800/mo F/S. + 1/2 elec. Cable & water incl. Amazing amenities! (954)683-1996 COLOHATCHEE PARK AREA- Large Furnished Studio w/ full kitchen, DirecTV & Utilities incl. No Pets. $750/mo. F/S (954)682-9428 WILTON MANORS/WATERFRONT! 2/2 Sub-Penthouse, completely renovated. New kitchen, new baths, new tile! Dockage available. Heated pool. Gym. $1500/mo, F/L/S Robert MacKilligan, Galleria Intl. (954)234-8759
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RENTALS FTL PERFECT WINTER VACATION RENTALS From $89/Night & $495/Week Beautiful Studio, 1 & 2 BR Apts. with Full Kitchens. Clothing optional heated pool, laundry, parking. Close to Gay Dania & Nude Haulover Beaches, Premium Cable, VOIP telephone & Wi-Fi Internet, Pets Always Welcome. Call 954.927.0090 or visit www.LibertySuites.com RIVERSIDE PARK- 1/1 COTTAGE! Set in tropical private oasis! 5 mins from downtown. Tile thru-out, brand new granite & cherry kitchen, private W/D & screened patio. Gas/water/cable incl. $875/mo + sec. dep. Pets OK 954.990.8335 WILTON MANORS 3BD/2BA POOL HOME!! All new kitchen w/ granite & stainless steel, cathedral ceiling family room, hardwood floors in all 3 bedrooms, 15X30 screened patio, lots of storage! W/D, fenced back yard. Walk to the drive from this quiet East side address. $1975/mo or rent to buy! 954.234.8759 WILTON MANORS/THE WOODS CONDOS- 1BD/1BA, Waterfront, Poolview, Large Deck, W/D in unit, $795/mo + Deposit. Call 202.841.9216 ALIBI AREA Furnished Studio Apt. Lg Studio with private entrance and parking, walk-in closet, fn, AC, kitchenette, laundry on site, Electric and Direct TV included, NO SMOKING,NO PETS $650/mo+sec. Call 954-682-942 MIDDLE RIVER & LAKERIDGE MOVE-IN SPECIAL 1/2 OFF 1ST MTH RENT!! 1 Bedroom/1 Bath $680/mo or $175/wk OR 2/2 $850/mo or $225/wk-(6 or 12) month lease. Pay your deposit today and you're in* details (954)527-9225
ROOMMATES
OAKLAND PARK GATED 3/2 Villa Furnished/Unfurn Annual lease avail JUNE 1 $1100/month+sec Open floor plan, patio, vaulted ceilings, w/d, cable, internet, tennis, pool, fitness ctr, walking/jogging/cycling area. No smoking (954) 260-7309
ROOMMATE WANTED-FT. LAUDERDALE- Furnished room with private bath, W/D, Jacuzzi, private patio, lakeview. All utilities incl. $125/week available immediately . (954)8030885
WILTON MANORS 2/1 Condo CAC, screened porch, overlooking the Middle River and pool on the 3rd floor. Excellent condition, $850/mo $1800 move in. Nice sized bedrooms, great complex at Wilton Shores East Bill Corey, Realtor 954-249-2009 or billcorey@live.com
3/2 POOL HOME TO SHARE- totally renovated w/ hardwood floors, granite, stainless steel appl., W/D, Direct TV , internet. No pets. $600/mo. F/L David 954.205.8363
WILTON MANORS/WATERFRONT! 2/2 Sub-Penthouse, completely renovated. New kitchen, new baths, new tile! Dockage available. Heated pool. Gym. $1500/mo, F/L/S Robert MacKilligan, Galleria Intl. (954)234-8759 WILTON MANORS/MIDDLE RIVER Luxurious newly renovated 2/1 poolside condo! Lush tropical landscaping, granite counters, SS Appliances. Walk to Wilton Dr. $895/mo. Available now! 202.413.3767 WILTON MANORS 1/1 Tile, $825/mo. incl. elec/water. Clothing optional pool, 9-unit gay complex, yard/patio. 125 NW 25th St. No Dogs. 954.326.9096 WILTON MANORS- completed in 2011, never lived in, on Dixie just over bridge. 3 story, 2 BD/2.5 BA townhome, SS appliances, W/D, tile floors, dark wood stairs, amazing balconies, impact windows and doors, 2 car garage. Do you have enough furniture to fill up over 2,350 sqft of living area? All for $1,800/mo OBO! Call Joe Schutz, EXIT Ryan Scott Realty. 954-461-7895 or www.EXITrsr.com WILTON STATION- 2BD/2.5BA townhouse w 1,604 sqft, located on Central Lane, NOT facing RR tracks! SS appliances, granite countertops, balconies, W/D, tile downstairs, carpeted bedrooms upstairs and in loft/office. Avail 4/1/11 for $1,900/mo o/b/o, BIG DOGS OK! Call Joe Schutz, EXIT Ryan Scott Realty. 954-461-7895 or www.EXITrsr.com WILTON STATION- 2 BD/2BA condo w 1,681 sqft, 3rd floor facing the Promenade, NOT the RR tracks! 3 balconies, marble floors, SS appliances, granite countertops, W/D. $1,950/mo o/b/o, BIG DOGS OK! Call Joe Schutz, EXIT Ryan Scott Realty. 954-461-7895 or www.EXITrsr.com-WILTON MANORS, LUXURY TOWNHOME 3BD/3.5BA In the heart of Wilton Manors, just one block from Wilton Dr. Custom kit. w/ granite counters and breakfast bar, stainless steel appl., balcony, 2 car garage, community pool. $1900/mo. Please call Michael 954.270.9597 LAKERIDGE/FT LAUDERDALE Renovated 1/1, new kitchen, W/D, vaulted ceilings, 2 pvt decks, CAC, basic cable and electric included. Available 4/1/11. Near Publix, close to downtown. $950/mo F/L. Ref Req. 954.554.5095
SPIRITUALITY The Parish of Sts. Francis and Clare 101 NE 3rd Street, just N of Broward and E of Andrews. Mass times: Sat @ 5 PM: Sun @ 10:30 AM; Wed @ 7 PM. Where we welcome and appreciate diversity - a progressive community in the Catholic tradition. 954-731-8173 www.stsfrancisandclare.org CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRITSONG Welcomes you to come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am and every Wednesday night at 8 pm. We meet at the SpiritSong Worship Center at 2040B North Dixie Highway Suite 3 in Wilton Manors (Building B on Equality Park Campus, behind the Pride Center). God loves you just the way He made you. Come discover His purpose for you. For more info: (954) 418-8372, info@cohss.com, www.cohss.org.
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