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JUNE 30, 2011 H ISSUE #84 H FLORIDAAGENDA.COM A MULTIMEDIA PLATFORMS COMPANY
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BEAUTY PRODUCTS FOR THE SUMMER HEAT
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Florida’s Largest LGBT Newspaper and Entertainment Source
Newsline NEW YORK SAYS “I DO!” n
FORT LAUDERDALE
MYGAYRADIO
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A weekend long party to Launch the new Website, MyGayRadio.com beginning on Friday, July 1st at Living Room, The Manor, Rosie’s and a special July 4th Tea Cruise PAGE 22
What Does this Mean for Florida? By JAMES MICHAELS
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POOL PARTY Victor Calderone with the Martinez Brothers, Behrouz and Ronny Seikaly host the fabulous Pool Party at Surfcomber on July 3rd from 10am til 11pm. PAGE 32 Courtesy, Club Planet
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OUTDOOR T-DANCE Powered by DJ Power Infiniti at the Parliament House on Sunday, July 3rd from 5pm. $1 BBQ and wells & drafts til Midnight! PAGE 33 Courtesy, Dale Stine
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TOM WOLFE Will be at the Eagle Leather Bar Reunion Party to meet and perform on Sunday, July 3rd, from 8pm to 2am. $1 drinks from 9pm til Midnight. WOOF! PAGE 33 Courtesy, FalconXXX
Governor Immediately Signs Bill Into Law Keeping Campaign Promise Photo courtesy, John Manzi
ALBANY, NY – Late Friday evening, June 24th, the New York State Senate held a vote legalizing same-sex marriage in the state. The Democratic-controlled State Assembly had already passed the measure; the Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo strongly supported it which put the final decision in the hands of the Republican-controlled State Senate, which had tried to put off the vote until the last possible moment. The Republicans held a one-vote majority in the Senate. New York became the sixth state in the country joining New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts and Iowa, along with the District of Columbia, which approved marriage equality for same sex couples. However, New York is the largest state where same-sex couples could be legally
wed, doubling the number of possible same sex marriages in the county. The final vote was 33 to 29. 29 of the 30 Democratic Senators voted for the measure and 4 of the Republican Senators voted in favor. The last time the question of marriage equality was brought up in the state December 2009 and, at that point, the Senate was controlled by Democrats. The measure was defeated when not a single Republican voted for it and eight Democrats voted against it. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the marriage equality bill into law a few hours later, shortly before midnight, foregoing the usual 10-day grace period between the passing of a bill by the New York Senate and the signing by the governor. Same-sex marriages in
New York can now begin in 30 days. Cuomo had promised the LGBT community that if he was elected Governor, marriage equality would be a top priority and he kept that promise. Cuomo went so far as to lobby Republican Senators from more moderate districts that if they voted for marriage equality, he would help them raise funds for their reelection should they be challenged by more conservative members of their party in their primaries. Cuomo received over $1 million in pledges from businesses and Wall Street for those primaries. The chatter around the Senate all week was that if the bill goes to the floor for a vote, it would get passed. However, many were afraid that if it went into ‘NEW YORK’ continues on Page 8
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National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Presents $200,000 Donation to the Miami Foundation’s GLBT Community Projects Fund MIAMI, FL — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force announced this year’s donation of $200,000 to The Miami Foundation’s GLBT Community Projects Fund at a June 23 reception at Bacardi USA’s national headquarters in Miami. Nearly 200 supporters, volunteers, charity representatives and VIPs attended. The donation represents two-thirds of the net proceeds from the 2011 Winter Party Festival and the 14th Annual Recognition Dinner. The remainder of the proceeds will go to the Task Force’s efforts to achieve LGBT equality throughout the U.S. As he presented the giant symbolic $200,000 check, Russell Roybal, Task Force deputy executive director of external relations, said, “We at the Task Force have a very special relationship with Miami. Since taking over Winter Party and the Recognition Dinner a few years ago, we have ‘partied with a purpose’ at Winter Party and honored community leaders at the Recognition Dinner, all while raising a total of more than $1 million to support local community organizations and the amazing work they do.”H
Former Broward Mayor to Get Married FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Former Broward County Mayor Ken Keechl announced on his Facebook page that he will be marrying his long-time partner, Ted Adcock in New York. Keechl made his post on June 24th at 10:57 p.m. just minutes after the New York State Senate approved the bill permitting same-sex marriage and right before New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the bill into law. H
Former Pride South Florida Treasurer Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement Michael Cruz Sentenced to One Year in Jail Plus Repayment FT. LAUDERDALE, FL – Former Pride South Florida treasurer Michael Cruz, 49, plead guilty to one count of second-degree grand theft for embezzling over $46,000 from the organization that produces the annual PrideFest in Oakland Park. Cruz pled guilty in front of Broward Circuit Judge Andrew Siegel last Friday afternoon. Seigel sentenced Cruz to one year in Photo courtesy, BSO jail plus ten years’ probation; Cruz was also ordered to repay the stolen money after his release in installments. Cruz was facing up to 15 years in prison. Two board members of Pride South Florida, Vice President Marc Hanson
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and Secretary/Treasurer Joel Slotnick, urged Seigel to show leniency on Cruz and not send him to jail, but prosecutor Jared Gass asked Siegel to impose some jail time. “For both Joel Slotnick and I, it has been very difficult,” said Hanson. “We have both been friends with Mike for a many years; it makes it very difficult for us to speak against him. We believe there still is a good man inside that body. He went in a bad direction and got addicted to gambling and that hurt him and us.” Cruz was treasurer of PSF and joined the board in 2003 until his removal by the Board in 2009. In May, 2009, a banking official of the organization’s financial institution in Sunrise where PSF had their account contacted two then-Board members, indicating that there were “suspicious” transactions involving the PSF bank account and Cruz. City of Sunrise authorities were contacted and, when the PSF Board was satisfied that there might have been misconduct on Cruz’s behalf, he was removed from the Board and his signature removed from the bank account. However, since Cruz’s activities were conducted in Fort Lauderdale, the case was turned over to Fort Lauderdale Police Department Economic Crimes Unit for jurisdictional reasons. When Board members went to confront Cruz about the suspicious activities, it was discovered he was in Broward General Hospital for what was theorized as attempted suicide. A warrant for Cruz’s arrest was issued in July 2010. Cruz had originally plead not guilty to the charges. Since Cruz’s arrest, PSF has put new oversight on their finances. “The lack of the $40,000 has made it difficult for us these last two years,” said Hanson. “It’s not cheap to put on these events; it put a lot of stress and strain on the organization on top of a stressful economy. This is why a number of things had to change from the way it was being done.” “We are ecstatic with the change of plea – that he made the decision to admit to his guilt and that we wouldn’t have to continue fighting,” said Hanson. “We had all the evidence and witnesses in place, but this brought everything to a nice end. We are glad to be passed it and we are looking forward to our next year, our 35th anniversary event!” H
The Pet Project Schedules Two Fundraising Events FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The Pet Project will be holding a Fourth of July Fundraiser at Mona’s Cocktail Lounge on July 4, starting at 12 noon. The fundraiser will include several raffles throughout the day and a cookout starting at 2 p.m. Mona’s is located at 502 E. Sunrise Boulevard (just west of the FEC Railroad tracks) in Fort Lauderdale. There will also be a Florida Leather Canine Dog Contest at Ramrod on Sunday, July 10, starting at 8 p.m. Bring your “best friend” in his finest leather and perhaps he will win a spot in the 2012 Collar and Cuffs calendar. There will also be a dog buffet on the back
patio. Ramrod is located at 1508 N.E. 4th Avenue, also in Fort Lauderdale. The Pet Project’s mission is to do what needs to be done to keep the human/animal bond intact for people living with a life-threatening or terminal disease through pet care services and education.
Come Party with WIN DELRAY BEACH, FL – Women in Network (WIN) asks you to help stop bullying on Sunday, July 10, starting at 4 p.m. at the Atlantique Café, 777 E. Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach. There will be live entertainment, raffles, a cash bar and more. A $10 suggested donation at the door will benefit the Can’t Tell Foundation, turning silence into empowerment. Entertainment will include Teri Catlin, Ruby and Michele Lynn. H
Local Filmmaker Creates Stonewall Pride Music Video WILTON MANORS, FL – A Wilton Manors based photographer and filmmaker has created a music video to commemorate the 2011 Stonewall Street Festival and Parade. Scott Allan roamed along Wilton Drive with a video camera during the June 19th event and then edited the footage to the classic gay dance anthem “Proud” by Heather Small (the Josh Harris Pride Extended Remix). The seven minute video contains over 300 shots, from the circus performers in front of the Texaco station to the dunking tank at Sidelines, and just about everything in between. Also included are shots from inside the temporary Stonewall Museum and the fabulous parade of community groups, businesses, elected officials and special guests marching to the cheers of thousands of happy onlookers. “The vibe and energy from this year’s Stonewall festival was extremely positive and I'm proud that I was able to capture it on video for the community and the world to see,” said Allan. A link to the YouTube video is on Scott Allan’s website at www.ScottPhotoVideo.com/ videos, and you might also see it played at Alibi and Bill's Filling Station. Some of the hundreds of parade participants have already commented on how exciting it is to see the rest of the parade that was in front of and behind them as they marched. H
Gays Rally Against Anti-Gay Amendment in North Carolina CHARLOTTE, NC – WBTV, CBS-3, in Charlotte, North Carolina, reported that hundreds marched from the Convention Center to Marshall Park in protest of an anti-gay marriage amendment. The state house and senate is considering an amendment to the state constitution to tighten up the band against marriage equality in the state. The rally was in conjunction with the annual meeting of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Charlotte, which calls the amendment hateful and says it will hurt a lot of families. H
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NOM Pledges $2-Million to Reverse Marriage Equality in New York NEW YORK, NY – The National Organization for Marriage has promised at least $2-million for the 2012 election to make sure that Republicans understand that voting for gay marriage in New York had its consequences. NOM’s president, Brian Brown, said that the organization is not giving up the fight to protect marriage in New York and will continue to fight against gay marriage in both New Hampshire and Iowa. H
N.Y. C. Bar Raided as N.Y. Senate Approves Marriage Equality NEW YORK, NY – As if it were a page torn out of history books describing the Stonewall Inn in June 1969, New York City police raided a gay bar while the patrons celebrated the state senate’s marriage equality vote. According to the New York Times, the police claim that it was simply a routine inspection at the New York Eagle. However, the Times quoted a gay rights activist who claimed the raid was in typical NYPD fashion and demonstrated its respect for the gay community by raiding the Eagle mere moments after the passage of the most important piece of gay rights legislation in history. H
Palm Springs Ranks Highest in California LOS ANGELES, CA – The Williams Institute on Sexual Orientation Law, based at the University of California, Los Angeles, states that Palm Springs has the highest concentration of samesex couples living together in California according to the 2010 census. According to the census, Palm Springs has about 115 same-sex couples per 1,000 households and ranks ahead of other notably gay cities such as San Francisco and West Hollywood. Statewide, the data shows there are 125,516 same-sex couples living together in California, roughly 10 gay or lesbian couples for every 1,000 households. Of those couples, 53 percent are women and 47 percent are men. H
Vandalism Strikes Chicago Gay Pride Parade CHICAGO, IL – The Windy City Times has reported that dozens of tires on floats headed for Chicago’s Gay Pride Parade were cut with knives just hours before last Sunday’s parade. A representative of Associate Attractions, the longtime float provider, said that the floats were fine when he left at 8 p.m. Saturday night, but when he returned at 5 a.m. on Sunday to start final preparations, he found two tires punctured on each of the more than 30 floats. No other damage was done to the floats. H Continues on NEWS on Page 4
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Anti-Gay Singer Gets 10 Years TAMPA, FL – Anti-gay singer Buju Banton was found guilty and sentenced to 10 years in maximum security for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five or more kilograms of cocaine, of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug-trafficking and using the wire to facilitate drug-trafficking. According to the St. Petersburg Times, Buju, whose real name is Mark Myrie, appeared before U.S. District Judge James Moody in a Tampa Federal Courtroom and faced 15 years to life, but 10 years is the minimum sentence. H
Liechtenstein Voters Okay Gay and Lesbian Partnerships LIECHTENSTEN – Voters in the tiny country of Liechtenstein voted with a 68.8% majority to allow legal partnership for gay and lesbian couples. Liechtenstein is located in the Alps between Switzerland and Austria. Gay and lesbian couples will now be equal to heterosexual couples in matters of inheritance, social security, immigration and taxation, but will still be barred from adopting children or accessing reproduction of medical services. Roman Catholic groups had challenged the law saying it would weaken traditional family values. H
Perry Seeks Advice from Anti-Gay Leadership DES MOINES, IA – Right Wing Watch reported that Texas Governor and potential presidential candidate Rick Perry has been reaching out to some of the most radical anti-gay leaders for possible support. Recently, Perry held a prayer rally hosted by the American Family Association, whose spokesperson, Bryan Fischer wants homosexuality criminalized. Now, Perry is reaching out to Bob Vander Plaats, the head of The Family Leader, who led a successful campaign to remove three Iowa Supreme Court justices who backed same-sex marriage and is closely linked to the AFA. Vander Plaats likened being gay to being a cigarette smoker, and once said that allowing equal marriage rights for gay couples threatened the system of private property and gun-ownership rights. H
Wisconsin Judge Rules Domestic Partnership Constitutional MADISON, WI – Dane County Circuit Judge Daniel Moeser ruled that the state’s Domestic Partnership laws are constitutional and don’t violate the state’s ban on same-sex marriage. The judge declared that the rights afforded through domestic partnership are “pathetic compared to those offered to legally married heterosexual couples.” Last month, Governor Scott Walker
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filed a motion asking a judge to allow the state to withdraw from defending the state's domestic partner law, because he believes it violates the constitution which says marriage is between a man and a woman. Wisconsin Family Action, the group pushing to remove the Domestic Partnership law, says they'll appeal all the way to the Supreme Court. Approximately 1,700 couples are signed up as Domestic Partners in the state, according to Fair Wisconsin. H
Homosexual Men Report More Problems with Prostate Cancer Drug ROCKVILLE, MD – ScienceDaily Magazine reported that homosexual men taking bicalutamide for prostate cancer were much more likely to report sexual problems during treatment than heterosexual patients, according to a study in the July issue of the British Journal of Urology. Researchers from Romania and the U.S.A. studied 17 heterosexual men and 12 homosexual men receiving a 50 mg daily dose of bicalutamide, a fast-acting, non-steroidal anti-androgen, which is similar to other anti-androgens, but with reportedly fewer side effects. They discovered that homosexual men reported their sexual performance and satisfaction more than halved in four of the six categories studied. Heterosexual men, on the other hand, reported fewer problems and were considerably more satisfied with intercourse. The patients were asked to compare their sexual functioning – erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire and overall functioning – before treatment started and five weeks after it commenced. H
Rap Star Writes Book for Teens on Bullying NEW YORK, NY – MTV News reports that rap star 50-Cent has written a new book entitled “Playground,” which is a semi-autographical novel about teen bullying. According to a statement from his publisher, the firstperson novel is slated for release in January 2012 and will tell the story of a 13-year old bully who “finds redemption as he faces what he’s done”. The previous books he’s written concerned his personal life story and the Photo courtesy, Heckler Spray rules of power. “I had a strong desire to write ‘Playground’ because I wanted to explore how a kid becomes a bully,” 50-Cent said in a statement announcing the book. “I drew on events from my own childhood and adolescence, but was excited to see the story take on its own life. This book would have been very helpful for me growing up and now that I have a
teenage son, it is my goal that this will have a positive influence on all teenagers.” H
Michigan GOP Continues its Gay Bashing LANSING, MI – The Michigan GOP House of Representatives committee has passed two new bills. One would prohibit the state from offering benefits to domestic partners, and the second prohibited such benefits from being included in collective bargaining agreements. The Michigan Messenger reported that the bills were sponsored by Rep. Dave Agema, who has previously targeted the LGBT community and recently proposed cutting funding to universities that support equality. H
Chris Crocker to Become a Porn Star LOS ANGELES, CA – YouTube sensation Chris Crocker is to become a new porn star. Crocker was made famous for his screaming of “Leave Britney Alone” videos during the period when Britney Spears’ career was all but totally collapsed in September 2007, which have been viewed over 39 million Photo courtesy, College Candy times. Recently, he has been posting videos on Tumblr of him having sex with his boyfriend when he was discovered by gay porn director ChiChi LaRue at the beginning of this month. LaRue contacted Crocker to help him “exhibit what [he] was meant to exhibit,” and Crocker confirmed the news that he will be “doing a full-length porno this summer. Deal is in place.” Surprisingly, Crocker is a top. H
Gates Unlikely to Certify DADT Repeal Before Leaving Office WASHINGTON, D.C. – Outgoing Secretary of Defense Robert Gates is unlikely to certify the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” before leaving office this week, according to what a senior defense and military officer told the military newspaper Stars and Stripes. Gates had said that he would like to be the one that finalized the repeal of the 18year-old ban on openly gay troops if the service chiefs gave him their okay before he retires on June 30th. Army leaders said assessments on the progress and impact of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” repeal training, underway since February, were due last Friday, leaving open a slim possibility that certification could come before Gates steps down. Gay rights groups have for weeks been pushing for Gates to wrap up the process, concerned that his replacement, former CIA director Leon Panetta, might wait several more months before moving forward. Now, with Gates’ retirement just days away, that’s becoming less realistic.
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Nearly all active-duty soldiers will have completed the training by July 15. The sessions inform service members about changes in law and policies post-repeal, as well as instruction about how troops should act around gay colleagues and reminders about existing rules regarding public displays of affection. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps officials said they expect to have more than 95 percent of their forces trained before the end of the month. Once the Secretary of Defense certifies that the services are ready for the repeal, the law will come off the books after an additional 60-day waiting period. H
Houston Pilot Suspended For Slurs, Swearing Over Air Traffic Radio HOUSTON, TX – KPRC/NBC2 in Houston reported that a Houston-based Southwest Airlines pilot has been suspended without pay after his cockpit microphone became stuck, allowing an obscenity-laced rant to be broadcast over hundreds of miles. Air traffic controllers in Houston first alerted Federal Aviation Administration supervisors on March 25, 2011, around 1:30 p.m. and those supervisors forwarded a tape of the episode to Southwest Airlines to take action against the pilot. The Southwest Airlines pilot, who was not identified by the FAA or the airline, could be heard talking to his co-pilot in the cockpit, expressing frustration over the airline hiring so many flight attendants that he found to be unsuitable for dating. “A continuous stream of gays and grannies,” the pilot said over the Houston Center air traffic control frequency, which covers hundreds of miles over Texas. “Eleven (expletive) over-thetop (expletive) ass (expletive) homosexuals and a granny,” the pilot said as he complained to his co-pilot about the lack of flight attendants who caught his interest. The pilot used a slur against gay flight attendants, saying he had gone to a bar with a group of flight attendants. He described that trip to the bar by saying, “Once with the granny and the (derogatory term) and I wish I hadn't gone.” Pilots within certain altitude guidelines over that entire geographic area were unable to communicate with Houston Center air traffic controllers for the entire four-minute duration of his conversation since his headset microphone was stuck. H
Huntsman: “Redefining Marriage Would Be Impossible” NEW YORK, NY – ThinkProgress reported that former Utah Governor and Ambassador to China and current GOP Presidential hopeful Jon Huntsman said on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” that “redefining marriage” is “impossible” and stressed that he does not support marriage equality for gays and lesbians. Continues on NEWS on Page 9
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PROFILE
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Making a Difference: Howard Woodkirk
By ALEX VAUGHN
Howard Woodkirk has led a very varied and fulfilling life. He was born and raised on a farm in the hills of Pennsylvania to a very religious right family. His father was some 20 years older than his mother and he had two sisters. Growing up this way, Howard, now 53, followed the obvious path laid out in front of him. Though he knew there was something different about him, he didn’t know what. He went to a very small high school with a total of 300 kids and, as it was the 70’s, he didn’t test the status quo and got married and proceeded to have four children. He then moved with his family to Michigan, where he was faced with the reality that he was gay. After eight years in Michigan, he finally divorced his wife. He came out to his whole family. He says “I told everyone. My sisters and mother were very accepting. My sisters even asked why I didn’t come out 20 years earlier”. His father, however, found it extremely difficult. “He was from a very different generation, he was much older than my mom.” Six months later, Howard met his partner, Carter. “He was African American and we were together nearly ten years.” His children accepted him, his older daughter more so than the others. “She would come with her husband and stay with us, but my other children would just visit.” In September 2009, however, Carter lost his battle with colon cancer. “I left my position at GKN Automotive in the Research and Development department to be his round the clock carer,” says Woodkirk. “After he passed away, I needed a change and, as I love to travel – particularly taking cruises – I decided to move to Fort Lauderdale. I also made a promise to myself to give up smoking by the end of 2010.What had always stopped me in the past was I gained weight.” Howard did quit smoking and also put on the weight, until he saw an ad for the Brian Neal Fitness Challenge boot-camp in Mark’s Magazine. “I saw the ad and was inspired; I knew I needed to get in shape. Within the first session of 12 weeks, I lost 25 pounds and went from a 38”waist to a 34” waist.” Howard then went on to complete the second challenge, which was equally successful. “I went down to a 32” waist and I think I have lost 40lbs in total.” How does he feel? “I feel amazing. I have always had self-confidence, but now I feel like I belong in Fort Lauderdale. I don’t want to say the community, but I feel much better about my body.” “It is so wonderful to be in shape and to have people acknowledge the change,” he says of his experience. How has it made a difference? “Socially, it is also so fantastic. You get to being excited to see the guys each time, and Brian is so fantastic. I had back surgery in ’07, and he
pushed me by teaching me the right form so I didn’t hurt myself.” The fitness challenge has been very successful in Wilton Manors. Howard believes this is due to the people. “I want to thank Brian, Melissa and Ed. You can just feel their passion to get people healthy. They are always encouraging everyone, even those who aren’t really trying. Their passion for this is unwavering. It definitely is contagious; in the first session, there were a lot of dropouts who couldn’t handle it, but in the second wave there were 5 or 6 of us who had done it before, and we encouraged people who were finding it difficult that it was possible and all worth it in the end!” Having lived such a varied and dynamic life, Howard clearly sees the benefit of staying in shape, and his confidence is at an all-time high. Family is important to Howard, who does speak to all of his children, 3 girls and a boy, and still speaks to his ex-wife. “We are social, as we now not only share children but a grand-daughter. She is always there in a sense,” he says. One can tell Howard has changed, thanks to getting into better shape. “The best shape I have been in my life, the thinnest for sure. I was nearly 300 pounds at my heaviest and I am not a small guy at 6’1” Would he continue with boot camp? “Oh yes. I have already told Brian I want to sign up for the next one,” he says, continuing, “It is hugely beneficial to someone who isn’t prone to exercise; I spent 30 years behind a desk. The camaraderie that develops makes you want to train and keep going. If I had to go to the gym all the time on my own, it just wouldn’t happen!” H
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conference, the GOP would kill the bill. Republicans were already afraid that their base might retaliate against them and Tea Party protesters against the bill held up signs saying that if the bill were allowed to come up for a vote, they would be kicked out of office. Also, the Republicans wanted more than one GOP Senator to vote on the bill, so no one person would be held responsible for its passage. Immediately prior to the final vote on the measure, the Senate voted on an amendment allowing religious exemptions, not requiring churches and religious institutions to perform same-sex marriages. The exemptions were already in the bill. However, the Republicans members wanted to include specific language that if a religious institution did not want to marry a same-sex couple, they will not in any way face a discrimination lawsuit. There was also added an insurability clause that if a judge or court in the future were to strike down the religious exemption, the entire bill would be stricken. Earlier in the day, New York Conservative Party Chairman Mike Long conceded saying that he was sure the bill would pass the Senate, telling the Weekly Standard, “I know they’ve got the 32nd vote and I think they’ve muscled two more people. Hopefully all of that blows up but I don’t see that happening.” The Senate galleries were so packed with supporters and opponents that the fire marshals closed them off. And, along the Great Western Staircase outside the Senate chamber, about 100 demonstrators chanted and waved placards throughout the night. However, as the night wore on and the time to vote came close, opponents to the bill started to dwindle away as more people in favor of the bill showed up in support. The hallways outside the Senate chambers also filled with supporters. That night happened to be the start of the city’s annual Gay Pride Weekend and more LGBT people than usual were in New York City for the festivities. Many people were expected to be in the streets of New York making their feelings known about the bill whether it passed or failed. When the final vote was announced, cheers poured out from the visitors’ gallery and could be heard down the hallways where hundreds more gathered. Later that evening, a special celebration was held in front of the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village. Stonewall is the bar in New York City and the site of the Stonewall riots which started on June 28, 1969 and is considered to be the single most important event leading to the gay liberation movement and the modern fight for LGBT rights in the United States. Also, later that evening, the Empire State Building was lit up in rainbow colors. The positive economic impact on passing marriage equality could be great. The New York State Comptroller’s Office estimates that $142 million will be added to New York City’s economy alone, with an additional $184 million added to the rest of the state. Unlike the laws of Massachusetts, which have residency requirements in order to get a marriage license, the New York law has no such provision, so Americans from around the country can come to New York to get married starting in 30 days. H
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These statements were made the day after he said he would respect New York’s decision to pass a law legalizing same-sex marriage in the state. In 2008, Huntsman signed legislation expanding domestic partner benefits for Utah’s unmarried couples, including gay people. He has endorsed civil unions since February 2009, and recently told ThinkProgress that he intends to continue supporting them despite the fact that it may hurt him with social conservative voters. H
Gay Activist Hoax Attack on Southern Baptist Convention Nashville TN –A gay activist group has taken credit for an elaborate online hoax attacking the Southern Baptist Convention for its opposition to gay marriage, calling the nation’s largest Protestant denomination “irresponsible and un-Christian.” A group calling itself the Center for Responsible Christian Living created a phony website, a fake telephone number along with a press release that was sent to members of the national media. The Nashville-based, pro-gay activists said they wanted their attack to coincide with New York’s legalization of samesex marriage and the 42nd anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, long believed to be a turning point in the history of the gay rights movement. "The SBC's intolerant and even hateful stance toward homosexuals directly leads to violence nationwide, and is in direct opposition to the Good News as demonstrated by Jesus Christ,” the group wrote in a press release. They called their attack a “friendly prank.” However, executives with the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee were not amused and they are looking into possible legal action against the attackers. “It is a concern whenever anybody does anything that is false and gives a false impression to the public about who we are,” said Roger Oldham, vice president for communication and convention relations for the SBC Executive Committee. The release falsely announced that the Southern Baptists had met in “extraordinary emergency session” to affirm gay rights and repent “of any past homophobia that not only hurt gay people but kept them ostracized from the church.” The release included phony quotes and comments affirming homosexuality from real denominational leaders, including Southern Baptist Convention President Bryant Wright. SBC President Bryant Wright said he suspected the culprits were those in opposition to the denomination’s stance on homosexuality and same-sex marriage. “We can’t apologize for teaching what Scripture says about sexual purity,” Wright said. “That’s true for heterosexual sex or homosexual sex.” Wright denied charges from gay rights groups that the denomination’s opposition to homosexuality is hate speech. “When I preach on adultery,
I’m sure there are people in the congregation that are involved in the sin of adultery, but I don’t hate them,” he said. “I’m just teaching what the Bible says. When I talk to teenagers on premarital sex, I’m sure some of them are not abstaining, but I don’t hate them. I’m just sharing with them what God’s word says about sexual purity.” H
13 Democratic Senators Unveil ‘It Gets Better’ Video for Gay Youths WASHINGTON, DC – Thirteen Democratic senators are releasing a video for the “It Gets Better” project highlighting Democrats’ efforts on gay rights issues and encouraging gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youths who are facing harassment in their communities. The senators, led by freshman Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.), unveiled their video at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at a Capitol news conference. The nearly five-minute-long video is set to upbeat music and features black-and-white clips of each senator shot individually over the past month. “Unlike with so many other issues that we have to deal with in the Senate, with LGBT equality, there is value in simply talking, in speaking out,” Coons said at the news conference. “It doesn’t necessarily take a law to make a difference. As we said in the video, it’s up to all of us to fight for equality wherever we can. Fortunately, in the Senate, we also have other ways we can fight for equality as well.” The move comes five days after the New York state legislature voted to legalize same-sex marriage, making the state the sixth to permit same-sex unions. New York is now not only the largest state to approve same-sex marriage but is also the first in which a Republicancontrolled chamber has passed a samesex marriage measure. The 13 senators featured in the video are Coons and Sens. Mark Udall (Colo.), Ron Wyden (Ore.), Richard Blumenthal (Conn.), Sherrod Brown (Ohio), Maria Cantwell (Wash.), Dick Durbin (Ill.), Al Franken (Minn.), Dianne Feinstein (Calif.), Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.), Charles Schumer (N.Y.), Jeanne Shaheen (N.H.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (R.I.). All 13 are among the 25 co-sponsors of the Respect for Marriage Act, which was introduced by Feinstein in March and which would repeal the Defense of Marriage Act. Several of the Democratic senators had been featured in videos for the “It Gets Better” project. Others, such as Udall, had been supporters of last year’s effort to repeal the “don’t ask, don’t tell” law but had yet to vocally advocate for same-sex marriage. Among the five senators speaking at the news conference were Wyden — who noted Wednesday that he was among the 14 senators voting “no” on DOMA in 1996 — and Schumer — who voted in favor of DOMA as a House member 15 years ago but in 2009 declared his support for same-sex marriage.
“Martin Luther King Jr. once said, ‘The arc of history is long but it bends in the direction of justice,’ ” Schumer said. “Last week, my home state of New York took a giant leap in that direction by extending the freedom to marry to all New Yorkers. And the strong bipartisan vote late Friday night in the New York state Senate sent a rousing message to LGBT kids throughout my state who yearn for acceptance: It really does get better.” H
Seven Same Sex Couples Sue New Jersey NEW JERSEY – Seven gay and lesbian New Jersey couples, along with many of their children, are going to court to try to force the state to recognize gay marriage. The families say in their legal complaint that the state's civil union law designed to give gay couples the same legal protections as married couples has not fulfilled that promise. One man says he was denied being able to make urgent medical decisions for his partner. Another saw his partner and children's health insurance canceled by a skeptical auditor. One woman had to jump through legal hoops to adopt the baby of her civil union. Along with the gay advocacy groups Garden State Equality and Lambda Legal, the couples planned to announce details of the lawsuit on Wednesday. The advocacy groups provided a copy to The Associated Press on the condition that no details be published before Wednesday morning. The lawsuit, to be filed in state court, comes less than a week after New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a law allowing gay marriage in that neighboring state. But it's the latest step in a nineyear legal battle in New Jersey. States afford gay couples a hodgepodge of rights. New Jersey is one of seven states that offer the same legal protections of marriage, but call it either civil unions or domestic partnerships. New Jersey's civil union law is cast as the villain in the suit. “The separate and inherently unequal statutory scheme singles out lesbians and gay men for inferior treatment on the basis of their sexual orientation and sex and also has a profoundly stigmatizing effect on them, their children and other lesbian and gay New Jerseyans,” the claim says. The legal filing tells the stories of seven couples — two of whom previously sued for the right to marry — and the problems they say they've faced since the state began offering civil unions in 2007. Their lawyer, Lambda Legal's Hayley Gorenberg, said most people in places like medical offices don't want to discriminate against them, but don't understand the rights conferred through civil unions. "People are not badly inclined toward them," she said in an interview Tuesday. "They are just flummoxed" by the civil union requirements. H
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Better the Devil You Know? As New York approves gay marriage, there will be an influx of nuptials, from people who have been waiting many years for the right to marry, to those who are recently together and a whole host of other couples with different stories. I wonder how many of them – or couples in general – are going at their relationship for the second or even third time. The saying, “Better the Devil You Know” is perfectly apt to the gay community. As relationships are so difficult to foster here in Florida, many people go back to or stay with their exes – as an outsider, you are flabbergasted “but they did this?” or “You said that?” or “They left your birthday party with someone else?” and one of the all time top gripes, “They cheated in your bed?” Just a fraction of some of the shocked responses your friends and family will shoot at you when you tell them the great news that you and the love of your life are back together. Before going back, there are many couples here whose passion has long since left the relationship, so they end up being roommates in essence, but they are tied to their exes by property or finances or, more often than not, the crippling fear that if they leave that house and that crutch they will have to really start all over again. By staying, they in essence have the option of trying out the world and its options while knowing they still have someone to come home to; this will work until one of you moves on, and by God you had better hope it’s you, because if it’s not, not only will you feel somewhat betrayed, but you will end up believing it was “you” not “him” who caused THE demise of your “perfect” union. Why do we go back to exes? Well, first off, aside from all those promises of change, there may be the fact that they were your first true love (that’s always a tricky one). For your first love, you will forgive anything – cheating, lying betrayal – because you genuinely believe beneath it all is a good person, one that you love for all their faults. Ouch! Then, of course, maybe you are soul mates being
tested, so you go back again and again praying each time will be different, because when you rise above it all you know you are perfect for each other. Then there is the fact that in all your travels and experiences, you still, like in the Cher and Peter Cetera song “After All,” end up together, countries change, lives change, circumstances change and yet you always run into each other. These are all relevant, possible and real, but I believe more often than not it’s that, with all their faults, they are still a better bet than putting your heart on the line from the beginning again. If you do end up getting away from an ex but get hurt by someone else, then inevitably you will question yourself “what does it say about me? Maybe I’m a sap, or fall for the wrong guys… or worse maybe it’s just me?” –
when you think of it like that it appears safer to go back to an ex who you KNOW will hurt you, but you know how to be prepared for it. Once a cheater always a cheater? Well at least you know what you are dealing with; you can almost turn a blind eye. Maybe your former partner had a penchant for a different racial demographic … so you know to keep him away and put that mental block up when you see him talking to someone like that. These
Letters to the Editor DEAR EDITOR, I have just completed reading your message in the Florida Agenda advising gay men as to how to improve their appearance while out in public. I am a gay man in his late fifties and I recall a time when gay men set the fashion trends for men in the straight community. From flowered print shirts and neck scarves of the 1960's to pierced earrings and big leather jackets in the 1980's. Something changed in the 1990's with the development of the metro-sexual male. Now I find a sea of fashion blandness or an absence of fashion all together while observing the patrons of any one of the bars in Wilton Manors. It is often a sea of men in baggy “ill fitted” jeans and tee shirts. Aside from the occasional drag queen, there is nothing to distinguish our bar from any of the “straight” bars on the beach. And what is comical to me is when a young man will boast to me how much he paid for his “Ed Hardy” tee shirt. I want to scream and remind him “It is still only a
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Alex Vaughn are all the trappings of going back to an ex. From the outside, it’s easy to see this as utterly absurd and not a healthy way to have a relationship, but inside that situation, it’s what needs to be done to keep an ex. Aside from anything else, it hurts you and yet, the reality is, loneliness is so prevalent here not just because of gay relationships but because, as I have said before, making and maintaining friendships here is difficult. So, surely a non-ideal-relationship is better than nothing at all? Well each to their own, I’d love to say, but I don’t believe that. I can’t in all honesty. Loneliness is hard and toxic relationships have their own comfort, no one else may understand them – you might not yourself -- but they exist because in some way your ex offers you something you believe someone else can’t and this way you don’t have to risk it. Well, sure, but love is a gamble and sometimes you have to risk it. Break free from the devil you know – you might meet an angel you didn’t. The course of true love never did run smooth. Love is a familiar. Love is a devil. There is no evil angel but Love. – William Shakespeare H
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Alex Vaughn is the Editor-in-Chief of the Florida Agenda. He can be reached at editor@FloridaAgenda.com
Please send all your comments and letters to Editor@FloridaAgenda.com
tee shirt”. Occasionally I will spot a well coiffed individual wearing a pressed shirt with a collar and jeans, which is worn properly and accentuate his behind. But I have to ask, why is this fellow an exception? I no longer have the thirty-two inch waist I had as a youth. I often will wear a silk club or tropical shirt and do not tuck it in my slacks or jeans. But why should I feel I am overdressed while bar hopping on a Saturday night? I see too many young men hiding their sleek hard bodies under shirts and jeans which are two sizes too big for them. However, I do have hope for the future. I thought the hippies of the 60’s and then the grunge movement of the 90’s almost succeeded in killing good and fun fashion for rest of us. But then there were 1970’s disco’s, where patrons were not accepted in if they were not wearing a suite or a dress. And 1980’s television shows like Dynasty, which made it fun to dress up again. We
just need a movement to bring sexy back to fashion and it traditionally is the gay community that does just that. SINCERELY YOURS, MICHAEL PROKUDA DEAR EDITOR, I would like to thank you for continuing your series of Jean’s Kitchen recipes. As a young man, I was never taught how to cook by my mother, and so it is very helpful for me to read AND TRY to cook some of the recipes in your newspaper. It’s nice to see a publication include something like that, which can help those of us who want to become better men, rather than just focusing on the bars and the drag shows in town. Thank you! SINCERELY, BILL J.
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DISPLAY AD DEADLINES: Placement by Mondays, 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 954-566-7900 or by regular mail to the Agenda office, attn: Letters/Commentary.
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Mismanagement Enables Distrust By A-JAY EDDY
The lack of accountability and credibility may sometimes expose us to fraud and other ethical challenges. In a recent issue of the Sun-Sentinel, it was reported that Mike Cruz, a community activist involved in the Oakland Park, Pride of South Florida Festival (a 501(c)(3) Charity), embezzled funds to the estimated tune of $47,000. The prosecutor, Jared Glass, asked Judge Andrew Siegel to sentence Cruz appropriately. Apparently, Cruz now has to serve a jail term, followed up by probation, and then faces a requirement to repay the stolen money in increments. Pride of South Florida’s Vice President, Marc Hanson, and the charitable organization’s Treasurer, Joel Slotnick, urged the judge to be lenient and show mercy on their long-time friend. They pleaded with the judge, claiming that Cruz should be put on probation and offered counseling for gambling addiction. Why is it that our community has seemingly had a less than stellar record in several situations regarding the oversight of monies that were entrusted to the leaders of some of these clubs and charitable groups? Does it seem that, in some cases, when the cash flows in, the opportunists run to the trough to feed on the hard work of others and eat away at the contributions
caring individuals offer for a worthy cause? What’s happened to the professional approach to adhering to standard accounting practices and principles for bookkeepers and treasures who volunteer for these worthy fund-raising groups? Most importantly, where are the slothful officers of the corporation who had the responsibility for oversight when committee management and financial reports are formally presented by the Treasurer to the leadership at Board meetings? Many believe it’s customary, especially for a 501(c)(3), that meetings be run according Robert’s Rules, where financial and management reports are screened by the board members. Last year, Pride of Greater Fort Lauderdale, who was responsible for the June Stonewall Street and Parade, also ran into problems which you may or may not have read about in the press. In all fairness, these cases are not isolated, and there are other situations that may have been swept under the carpet because of so-called friendships. Two wrongs will never make it right. Pride is something we have a lot to be proud about, because it’s humanitarian in its objectives and focus. It is the opposite of greed and corruption, which leaves many
with a sour taste in their mouths and often hurts other honest, credible and accountable groups, leaving them high and dry because of mistrust. All is not lost, because there are competent and honorable individuals out there with a credible record of achievement. Paul Hyman, Executive Director of the Pride Center, just to name one, demonstrates to us that talent is available if we seek it out. We also have to look to the City of Wilton Manors and its Commissioners for saving the spirit and concept of the Stonewall Street Festival and Parade. Their involvement has enabled that event to again continue on in the spirit that Karl Clark, Terry Norman and some other early activists initially envisioned for the June Wilton Manors event. While they claim history repeats itself, let’s avoid our mishaps by not falling asleep at the helm. Let’s demonstrate our
credible leadership skills, show a trail of accountability and present a picture of ethical responsibility to those we proudly serve. H
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21 Consecutive Days of BEING Positive! The Sequel! I have had an incredible month since my last column. "Don't Spread Negativity" has been remarkably wellreceived, based on all the feedback I have received from friends and colleagues. My life experiment of "21 Consecutive Days Without Negativity, Complaining and Gossip" has really been transforming. Today, I am on day (wait for it, wait for it...) two! Please don't be alarmed. I feel fantastic about my continuing transformation. It is making a real difference in my life and the effects I am having on the relationships around me. In my first column, I advised on "The art of networking is about building relationships and making connections". Since the start of "21 Consecutive Days of Being Positive," my working relationships have truly strengthened. This column, along with my continued Facebook updates, has certainly helped. Acquaintances are reaching out, relaying how much they enjoyed my column and appreciate my honesty and vulnerability. Colleagues are noticing and commenting on how being positive appears to have made a difference. They are also sharing how my positive attitude is influencing them to be better individuals. This is a ripple effect I didn't plan on. BEING positive has created stronger relationships and deeper connections in all aspects of my life. Recently, a "future client" and I were sharing a discussion about being positive and his co-worker joined in inquiring about our topic. They are "Social Media Marketers," so he told her about the column and to check out the updates on my Facebook page. She jumped in with excitement and expressed interest in reading up on my 21 days of positiveness. I felt a real connection and a strong working relationship was created. Then, my "future client" became my "current client" when they confirmed they will be joining the Gay and Lesbian Business Exchange (GLBX) at the Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. Not only is it important to remain positive when your are out there selling your wares, but it's important to remain positive when someone is selling to you. I have a friend who is a part owner in a restaurant. When I brought up his merchant account, he suggested I speak with his partner at the restaurant. On a day when I needed a sure thing deal, I decided to pay them a visit. The restaurant wasn't busy when I arrived, which gave me a good opportunity to present my offer. I informed her who I was and that my friend, her partner, sent me to review their merchant account. She said "no we are all set" so abruptly that, well, it didn't leave me empowered. I was surprised, since I thought my friend and I had a decent working relationship. I thought she would be interested in the same; instead our conversation was over before it started. I am sharing this story because
By DREW MILLER
I believe positivity goes a long way. Some time ago, when I was appraising homes, I received an appraisal order from a real estate agent here in town. We were acquaintances and just getting to know each other. I completed the appraisal for his client and sent it over. A week or so went by and I got a call from the real estate agent wanting me to send the appraisal to him (by law it can only be emailed to the client). I was on the road and distracted when he called. Without looking into the matter, I assumed I emailed the report directly to the customer and informed the agent he couldn’t get it from me, he would have to get it from his client. This did not sit well with the agent, since he felt he ordered the appraisal. Later, after looking into where it was emailed, I realized the mistake I made. However, the damage was done! Now, I network with that agent all the time and, sadly, have not received another appraisal from him. It's important to remain positive even when you are not in the "best of moods or distracted�. You never know who you will be upsetting and how much you will have to work with them in the future. On a personal note, in mid-June, my partner Kevin and I went on a 10-day vacation with 14 of his family members including his mother, two brothers, sister, spouses, nieces, nephews and significant others. Remember, this was right in the middle of our "21 days". I have to say I was truly surprised and genuinely thrilled with the effect this had on our family vacation. Everyone welcomed the challenge and the results were surprising. On the flight back from Cost Rica (wonderful country, see my Facebook), my niece expressed how much our discussions on being positive really impacted her. She recognized in her own life where she could really create more positivity and find more enjoyment in both her work and personal life. When I complete my "21 Days of Being Positive," please know that doesn't mean I will start being sarcastic, gossipy or snarky. I want people to see the person I am on the inside, without the negative humor that I have relied on. Sure, I might slip up now and then, but I am really thrilled with the person I am projecting now. Hint: Social Media Marketing is an essential part of creating business. Facebook and LinkedIn are crucial when you are cultivating new clients. These avenues of connecting with colleagues will build and strengthen your relationships. Social media gives you the ability to get to know prospective clients on a more personal level. You never know, you might gain a friend. H
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Drew Miller is a business and networking consultant. He can be contacted at Drew@DrewMiller.biz.
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Safe, humane and dignified treatment of transgender people? Not at the DMV! By VICTORIA MICHAELS, MISS FLORIDA F.I. 2011
My name is Victoria Michaels and I am the current reigning Miss Florida F.I. 2011 for the LGBT Community. I am a pre-op transsexual (male to female) and I have been living everyday life as a fulltime female since 1999. I serve as an advocate for the LGBT Community and I currently work as a premiere hostess at the world-famous Boardwalk Bar in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. As of June 10, 2010, the U.S. Department of State announced new guidelines for issuing passports to transgender people. It states that any applicant for a gender marker change on their passport will need to submit a certification from a physician that they have received "appropriate clinical treatment" for gender transition. Most importantly, gender reassignment surgery is not required anymore under the new policy. The National Center for Transgender Equality and other advocates stressed to the State Department that the old policy unnecessarily called attention to transgender travelers whose appearance and gender marker were at odds. I can confess through personal experience that in some airport destinations, my gender marker still reading "male" created an uncomfortable situation because I was “outed” as transgender either in an unwelcoming environment or in the presence of prejudiced security personnel. The government web site goes on to say that the new rules represent a significant advance in providing safe, humane and dignified treatment of
transgender people. I went to the Florida DMV to ask if they would honor the new passport guidelines for gender marker change on my license and I learned through the Supervisor, Aaron Lee, at the Pompano DMV Branch, that Florida is now following very similar guidelines for gender change for transgender individuals such as me. I was elated that after all these years of living as a female, I could finally have it officially read "female" on my license. There are exact written details in the new guidelines (Florida DMV provided me with a copy of the official license manual for gender change specifying what information my physician must provide and be sworn to under the penalty and perjury laws of the United States of America). After reviewing the new guidelines carefully with my physician, we both considered me to be a perfect candidate, since I lived every day as a full-time female and also had my name legally changed to Victoria Michaels Lavelle in 1999. I returned to the Florida DMV to have my gender marker changed and, after standing in line for 3 hours, to my amazement I was denied. I was informed that only a supervisor could change the gender marker on my license and it seemed the supervisor was not at work that day. I was flabbergasted because I had followed all of the instructions word for word, yet I was turned away. I made two more attempts at the Florida DMV in the coming weeks and each time I was denied by two managers,
Jacqui and Anthony. Each time I returned to Florida DMV in Pompano, the managers were rude and they spoke loudly about my gender change in front of other people, which was embarrassing because I am totally passable as a female and these managers were outing my personal business to everyone standing nearby. I thought the entire purpose of the new gender change law was to prevent transgender people from being put in an uncomfortable situations like this. In addition, the Florida Driver’s License Manual guidelines also state that anyone working for DMV must provide transgender individuals changing their gender marker with extreme discretion and treat us with respect. I followed all of the guidelines, yet Florida DMV fell short of holding up their end. On my fourth and final trip back to Florida DMV, they once again denied me and I literally had to stand up and scream out "SHAME ON YOU PEOPLE FOR DENYING ME MY RIGHTS!” It deeply saddens me that even with today's cultural changes – that even though new laws are put into effect to give us equal rights and protections – there are places like Florida DMV that fail to educate their employees and staff of new guidelines and laws. Finally, after contacting numerous equal rights organizations, I was able to have the gender marker on my Florida license changed to FEMALE. When the supervisor, Aaron Lee, had finally come
Networking Meeting Calendar BIZ PERKS Date: July 8, 2011 Time: 8:00 am - 9:30 am Location: PNC Bank 6550 North Federal Highway Imperial Point, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Weston Quarterly Breakfast Date: July 20, 2011 Time: 7:30 am - 9:00 am Location: Weston Hills Country Club 2600 Country Club Way Weston, FL
NonProfit Committee Meeting Date: July 13, 2011 Time: 9:30 am - 10:30 am Location: Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce 512 NE 3rd Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL
Trustee Reception Date: July 20, 2011 Time: 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Location: PNC Imperial Point Branch 6550 North Federal Highway Fort Lauderdale, FL
GLBX Afterhours Date: July 14, 2011 Time: 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Location: To Be Determined
Oakland Pk/Wilton Manors/FTL Afterhours Date: July 21, 2011 Time: 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Location: The Pantry of Broward 610 N.W. Third Avenue Fort lauderdale, FL
New Member Orientation-FTL Date: July 15, 2011 Time: 8:00 am - 9:00 am Location: Greater Ft Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce 512 NE 3rd Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL
Board of Directors/Trustee Luncheon Date: July 22, 2011 Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Location: To Be Determined
GLBX Afterhours Date: July 28, 2011 Time: 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Location: To Be Determined
to work at his branch, he seemed to laugh the situation off and made a snide remark that he would have to train his staff better when dealing with the new guidelines for gender change. He also informed me that any one of those managers could have changed my gender and he apologized for their behavior. H Editor’s Note: Aaron Lee has told Florida Agenda that his staff has been informed of the regulations and guidelines and does not believe there will be a repeat of this unfortunate situation. He also is sorry Ms. Lavelle found his attitude light-hearted and snide, which he insists was certainly not his intention.
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My Pride Ride with Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schulz By JENNIFER MORALES
Gay Pride 2011 in Wilton Manors, FL had a rather significant meaning for me. Not only did I find the entire Stonewall Street Festival & Parade to be a lot of fun and very successful for my partner’s business, this was one parade that I will remember for a very long time. My partner, Laurie Whittaker and I, were given the honor to be named a founding “Luminary Couple” of this year’s Stonewall Festival and Parade. Luminary Couples were defined as same-sex couples whose long term relationship of 10+ years may have been kept closeted and secret, but through their perseverance, have, in actuality, lit the way for future generations. We were very proud to be a part of this innovation since Laurie and I just celebrated our 30th anniversary! As such, the Luminary Couples were to be showcased in the Stonewall Parade. Our business duties as owners of Sidelines Sports Bar unfortunately kept us longer than anticipated and thus made us late for the parade’s staging. We were thoroughly disappointed to find out that our vintage convertible vehicle was earlier dispatched, since we had not arrived on time. Happily, through the efforts of the Stonewall organizers, a car was found for us to ride in and yes,
the sole occupant of this car was none other than Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schulz who beckoned us to join her in her car for the parade! To my amazement, she was welcoming and insistent that we join her, and so we did. Climbing into her car, we laughed at the sheer coincidence of this occurrence. As the parade crawled down Wilton Drive, the main thoroughfare of our little gay village, and our parade vehicle moved at a turtle’s pace, crowds converged upon us with applause and shouts of gratitude. “THANK YOU DEBBIE!”, “THANK YOU SO MUCH!” and “WE LOVE YOU DEBBIE”! Laurie looked at me and winked and said, “this is all for Debbie”. Congresswoman Wasserman Schulz kept repeating “thank you very much” … “no – thank you” … “I love you, too” all the way down the parade route. It was a love fest for the newly appointed Democratic National Chair to be sure. Oh, yeah, of course, there were a few shouts of “Congratulations Laurie & Jen”! But, the greatest thrill for me was to see the accolades and outpouring of appreciation for the work that the Congresswoman has done for the LGBT community in South Florida. In the car, we laughed a lot, talked
Photo courtesy, Stephen R. Lang
about Father’s Day, Debbie spoke about her children, and we discussed the upcoming Presidential elections and simply had a fun time! Afterwards, she confided in us and said “I am so overwhelmed with the amount of appreciation and passion people have for me! Wow! I’m in awe”! Laurie told her that this was just the tip of the iceberg. Debbie was articulate, friendly, funny, laid-back and a real human being. Today
I felt proud to be a gay women, but prouder of my Congresswoman. If she has any aspirations for the Presidency, she’s got my vote! H
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Jennifer Morales is a freelance writer and director of marketing for Sidelines Sports Bar in Wilton Manors, FL. She can be reached at Jennifer@sidelinessports.com
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OPINION
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Cross-Eyed
“On Bended Knee” By AJ CROSS It is always interesting to me how a term or phrase can mean so many different things to so many different people. What crosses your mind when you read the phrase "On Bended Knee"? A Catholic might be reminded of the repetitive action of church in which standing up and kneeling take place over and over again throughout the mass; A young man in love might end up on bended knee to ask for his soul mate’s hand in marriage. Perhaps you have earned the title of “Sir,” requiring you to bend a knee as you are knighted by royalty. Some might think of a warm afternoon, darkened by clouds blocking the sun for a moment as a small brief downpour of rain hides two strangers in an abandoned alley as one is forced to his knees by the other in preparation of satisfying some oral fixation. So you can see how a phrase can take on a whole new life, dependent upon the person interpreting it. This is often how things get lost in translation. It can also be the route of debate, arguments and conflict. A good communicator must know their audience, must take time to understand how what they say may be inter-
preted and adjust comments and phrases to suit the mindset of the recipient(s). If we speak or write or teach solely based upon what something means to us without taking into consideration what it might mean to others, then we will fail as effective communicators. People act on perception more often than reality, and this too creates problems. I was told today that being on bended knee is a submissive posture, which I found to be an interesting perspective. But again, knowing him the way I do, it made sense because he is always concerned about being perceived as effeminate. Bottom line is try to understand how other people see things and view the world when attempting to let them into yours. When I think of being on bended knee, I think of the honor and respect shown to Kings and Queens by Musketeers or Knights of ages past – the respect of those times. I think of Lancelot and King Arthur. Whatever you think or however you interpret a word, phrase or story, attempt to find its true meaning and, hopefully, the goal of the author or narrator will have been accomplished: Simply to make
a connection with another human being whether standing, sitting or on bended knee. H
www.JumpOnMarksList.com • Nearly a Decade of Stability and Results
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THE SCOOP
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The Scoop
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By BRAD “SCOOP” CASEY
Grumblings Over Stonewall Even though the recent Stonewall Street Festival is considered a success, drawing upwards to 25 to 30 thousand people, there is some grumblings from local businesses along Wilton Drive who had their views from the street blocked by booths and, thus, a loss in revenue. There are also complaints about outdoor tents that were ordered taken down by overzealous code enforcement officers at businesses who had applied for tent permits weeks before the event as a formality, only to find out on festival day no permits had been issued. Furious business owners say they will take their complaints to the next city commission meeting. From my perch, it looked like a well orchestrated event. My only minor complaint was there were long gaps in the parade between entries, thus dragging out the parade. Other than that I loved it.
hundreds of people who jammed into Miami’s first all-gay male dancer’s club in years and located in Miami’s Entertainment District. From my perch, I spotted a many movers and shakers, such as Johnny Moses, founder of Johnny’s, looking great, Mark Lowe and Christian Leonard of the trendy Living Room, Paul Hugo and Brett Tanenbaum of the famed Manor, a bubbly Victor Zepka of Boardwalk, publishers Norm Kent, Peter Clark and Scott Holland… Entertainer Nikki Adams, Mark Magazine and Florida Agenda’s Cliff Dunn, financier Richard Giorgi, well-known interior design specialist Michael Beemish, real estate wizard Pat Burnside, Dr. Edward Ferdon and we could go on. DJ Miik was spin master. Sean David has a winner on his hands and we wish only success to this hard working entrepreneur.
Johnny’s Miami Opens, Draws Power Crowd
I was in the Northeast section of Miami twice last week. It’s been several years since my last visit, even though I was born and raised in the Magic City. I was impressed with what I saw. A thriving area, I say. I spent a couple of hours in the Miami Design Center and the
The VIP/Press opening of Johnny’s Miami, last Wednesday night, brought out the power crowd. A beaming Sean David, AJ Cross, and Uncle Al greeted
Miami Is Alive
surrounding area with good friend Bruce Bogan of Copy This. I didn’t see a For Rent sign anywhere in the design center, and saw valet service at a Target! I was amazed and have decided I want to spend a week in Miami and visit old stomping grounds in Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Little Havana and maybe a drive over to Key Biscayne. I can’t wait. On the way home from the Johnny’s party, my companions, Richard Giorgi and Dr. Edward Ferdon, and I stopped for dinner at SOYKA, a large neat bistro, on Miami’s Eastside. Delicious food, wonderful atmosphere, great service; I can’t wait to go back.
OOPS! A New Times Goof
Last week, I mentioned that New Times neglected to have a Best Gay Bar in their Best of Broward/Palm Beach but they did and for reasons unknown neglected to publish it. The winner was Georgie’s Alibi. Congrats, ALIBI!
Anniversaring
Copy This celebrated its 4th anniversary over Stonewall Weekend. My friend Bruce Bogan threw an open house and
invitees were treated to a feast provided by The Wine Cellar. Copy This is the printer of Wilton Manors. Congrats, Bruce! Thanks for picking us up this week and remember: To have a friend, you must first be a friend. H
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If you have a “scoop” for Brad Casey, please e-mail your information to BradC@jumponmarkslist.com
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OPEN FOR BUSINESS
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Krishan Work Ethic A familiar face you should make a point of familiarizing yourself with belongs to the ubiquitous Krishan Manners, President and CEO of Wilton Manors Main Street (WMMS), who has spent the past six months taking the non-profit from its original mission (converting Wilton Drive into a more merchant- and pedestrian-friendly throughway) into a true community services organization, with a broad approach to improving a number of quality of life issues in the Island City. Since his installment in January, Manners has spearheaded a number of initiatives, including economic development and promoting and improving the image of downtown Wilton Manors. Manners can be found most work days at his office, located on the Drive side of Gables Wilton Park, using limited resources and a practically imaginary budget to turn dust into Egyptian cotton, all the while engendering goodwill and promoting partnerships between public and private sector stakeholders.
A Fistful of Burritos
Heidi Shafran, Community Development Services Director for the City of Wilton Manors informs Open for Business that a new Mexican restaurant is getting ready to open its doors on Wilton Drive (the glacial speed of the city’s inspection and other processes notwithstanding – Author’s quote, not Ms. Shafran’s). Pinche Taqueria is part of a New York City
–based chain and will occupy the space once planned as a hot dog joint in the same retail spaces as Sidelines Sports Bar and Gelato Station.
Meeting in The Men’s Room
MoJo’s The Men’s Room, the new boutique barber shop scheduled to open its doors on June 17 on Wilton Drive (on the opposite side from The Manor Complex) has been forced to postpone its opening accounting for the reportedly glacial speed of the City of Wilton Manors’ inspection process (see previous entry). Co-owner Joe Sansone says there’s “no question” the city’s inspection force is understaffed. Still, he and business partner Morgan Stamler are both looking forward to bringing their unique business model, which includes deejays spinning live music in a high energy environment that includes a cappuccino bar, a juice and energy drinks station, and a vibe that they hope will make the Home of the Hot Towel Shave the Drive’s next Scene spot.
Rick Scott: Not Available for Your Next Gay Wedding Party We’re not 100% certain about Governor Rick Scott’s feelings concerning gay divorcees, but he wasn’t making a subtle point in Broward County this week when
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By CLIFF DUNN queried (perhaps an unfortunate choice of words) about his views on same-sex unions. The Gov was at an appearance on Monday at the North Broward Academy of Excellence in North Lauderdale touting his new legislative agenda to expand charter schools in the Sunshine State. Changing the subject (how rude!), a reporter from WPLG Channel 10 asked Scott if he would consider signing legislation similar to the law that now legalizes gay marriage in New York state. Flexing his constitutional scholar muscles, His Excellency reminded the assembled that the Constitution defines marriage as “between a man and a woman.” The chief executive then moved on to the next question.
The Empire State, Marriage, and the Gay Male, Part 2
Former Broward County Mayor Ken Keechl and his domestic partner, Realtor Ted Adcock, have announced plans to tie the knot in New York state, following last week’s signing by Governor Andrew Cuomo of legislation legalizing same-sex marriage. Via Facebook, Keechl posted: "Ted and I are going to New York to get married. I am a very blessed man!" Following the New York senate’s passage of the law, Keechl, a partner at the law
firm of Kopelowitz Ostrow in Fort Lauderdale, wrote: "I love New York!" Six states now allowed same-sex marriage; Florida is not among them (see previous entry).
By the Numbers Before 1974, the numerical value of a billion in the U.S. was different from that of a billion in Great Britain. A U.S. (or short scale) billion was a thousand million (1,000,000,000), but a British (or long scale) billion was a million million (1,000,000,000,000). Other designations for large numbers also differed between the U.S. and U.K. In 1974, however, the short scale numbers started to be used exclusively in Great Britain. H
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If you're “Open for Business”, you can contact Business Writer and Director of Sales, Cliff Dunn, with your story at Business@FloridaAgenda.com
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To Purchase Tickets for the Fourth of July “Fireworks” Gay Tea Cruise, visit www.GayTeaCruise.com
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THE STYLE VOICE OF THE LGBT COMMUNITY
Home | Dining | Style | Travel | Recipe | Fitness | Out In Florida | Music | Bar Guide | Nightlife
WHAT’S INSIDE? n this week's issue of Style & Entertainment, in anticipation of the launch of the new site, MyGayRadio.com, we profile the hottest tracks of the Summer in Music, go back to Old Florida in Dining, and take on the Grooming challenges of the Summer Heat in Style!
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e appreciate man’s best friend in Home and go crazy for Key West in Travel. Of course we have your favorites, Fitness, Recipe, Out in Florida and our complete statewide Bar Guide covering all of the Gay Bars in Florida from Jacksonville to Key West!
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Crazy 4 Key West The Conch Republic Travel PAGE 41
Enjoy! H – AV
“GROOM OUT THE HEAT” Top 5 Beauty Essentials for Men to Beat the Summer Heat!
SUMMER MELTDOWN Melt Away Fat with these Simple Techniques
Fitness PAGE 39
Style PAGE 40 SUMMER SLAMS 13 Tracks That’ll Heat Up the Dance Floor
Music PAGE 31 GOING SOMEWHERE? Check Out the State-Wide Bar Guide
Bar Guide PAGES 26 & 29 Photos courtesy, Paul Rubio, , iStock, Eric Christian, Winter Party Conference,
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FORT LAUDERDALE/WILTON MANORS ALIBI 2266 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors Gayborhood tradition since 1997. Comfortable, inviting atmosphere with indoor video bars, outdoor drinking and dining. Drink specials all week, with mammoth 22-ounce Long Island Iced Teas for $3 on Thursdays ATOMIC/BOOM 2232 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors The bar with two names features a dance club and Gayborhood bar. Drag Bingo on Mondays, karaoke Mondays and Tuesdays, dance music Fridays and Saturdays, and (indoor) Sunday T-Dance. BILL’S FILLING STATION 2209 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors Videos, pool tables, dart boards, dance floor, happy hour, live shows, Tuesday and Thursday karaoke – and great burgers, to boot. Fun and friendly truck-stop-themed bar. BOARDWALK 1721 North Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale Over 100 of the sexiest men from all over the world. Go-go dancers, cages, billiards, 2-4-1 Happy Hours. Drag emcees and did we mention the Boys? CORNER PUB 1915 N. Andrews Ave., Wilton Manors Friendly atmosphere, unpretentious clientele and staff. Next to Island City Pizza (so you can get your drink AND your slice on). CUBBY HOLE 823 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale Butch bar and grill with a rockin’ daytime crowd (and a fun nighttime one, too). Fifty cent pool, 2-for-1 drinks all day every day, video games, hot movies on HDTV and DirecTV. Thursdays it’s Bare Bear Chest Night, and every Friday and Saturday the fur flies with Hot Bears on Poles (where their Grizzlies Grind)! DEPOT CABANA BAR AND GRILL 2935 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale Adjacent to the America’s Best Inn and Suites. Pool open daily – No Cover or Day Pass. Great food, daily happy hour, Sunday afternoon T-Dance Poolside. Karaoke and live music. Open daily at 11:30 a.m. DUDES 3270 N.E. 33rd St., Fort Lauderdale Men dancing for men. Hot go-go boys in an upscale atmosphere, piano lounge for more quiet interludes. Steamy shower shows. JOHNNY’S 1116 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale Club, bar, lounge. Male dancers and the men who love (to ogle) them. Sunday amateur strip contest (and karaoke!). LIPS 1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Oakland Park The Ultimate in Drag Dining. Dinner and shows six nights a week. Sunday Gospel Brunch with the Sisters of Sequins. LIVING ROOM 300 S.W. 1st Ave., Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale Arts & Entertainment District meets South Beach. Friday nights they’re here, they’re queer, and they drink free from 10:30(ish) to Midnight. Only House Music club in town with its own Classical (and classicallychiseled) violinist. THE MANOR 2345 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors WeHo vibe (think: LA’s The Abbey) in the heart of the Gayborhood. Dine, drink, dance, play, mingle. Theme rooms (salsa and meringue every weekend in the Latin Quarter!). Live dancing and dining. MATTY’S ON THE DRIVE 2426 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors Drink specials, billiards, and a chill gayborhood vibe. 75 Cent drinks on Wednesdays. No Drama, No Smoking. MONKEY BUSINESS 2740 N. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale Cozy neighborhood bar. Karaoke, drag shows, Patio Bar – and open at 9 a.m. daily. MONA’S 502 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale Cocktail Lounge in the heart of Searstown. Fun customers, fun bartenders and fun proprietor (the Legendary Jerry). Outside patio. Wednesday karaoke, Thursday Speedball Tournament. NAKED GRAPE 2039 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors Relaxing, friendly, hip, unique – the alternative gathering place on Wilton Drive. Wine tastings and events. Tuesday and Wednesday Late Night In the Biz.
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PJ’S CORNER POCKET 924 N. Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale Interracial Private Social Club. Bottle club memberships. Get your groove back on Wednesday nights with $2 drinks. RAMROD 1508 N.E. 4th Ave., Fort Lauderdale Voted World’s Favorite Leather Bar. Pig Dance first Saturday of the month – South Florida’s Busiest, Craziest Monthly Party (with caged hunks at Midnight on Saturdays – is there a downside to this?).
SCORE 727 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach Dance, drink, party all night on Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road. Tons of events throughout the year, including fundraisers for Winter Party, White Party, and Miami Beach Gay Pride. SPACE 34 NE 11th St., Miami Mingle and mix with gays and str8s in the heart of Downtown Miami. Indoor dance floors and outdoor rooftop bar, spectacular light show.
ROSIE’S BAR & GRILL 2829 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale Nexus of the A-Gay List. Be Seen in the Scene (without making one). Food, folks, libations, and a killer Sunday Funday.
TWIST 1057 Washington Ave., Miami Beach Great music, friendly staff, hot tourists and locals. Never a cover, always a groove. Bungalow Bar = Hot Men. In SoBe’s Art Deco District.
SCANDALS SALOON 3073 NE 6th Avenue, Wilton Manors A line-dancin’, tight blue jeans-wearin’ good time. Country and western music, two-steppin’, three-steppin’, pool tables, and themed events year ‘round. Cowboys and Indians was never this much fun, Pilgrim.
JOHNNY’S MIAMI 62 NE 14th Street, Downtown Miami Club, bar and lounge. Johnny’s Miami boasts the best sound system in town! Plenty of safe, secured parking. Open 5pm to 5am daily. Hot male dancers and daily drink specials.
SIDELINES 2031 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors Where Sports come first. Nationally known destination sports bar with TVs streaming NFL, MLB, NBA and college games. Pool tables, dart boards and large indoor (and now smoke-free) facility. Outdoor patio features area for smokers. Mixed crowd of gay men and women (who would have thought?). Featured in Bloomberg Businessweek and recommended by LOGO. STABLE 205 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale Levis-and-leather neighborhood bar, where the bears line dance and the cowboys are VERY friendly. SMARTY PANTS 2400 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale Cozy neighborhood bar with daily happy hour, and regular patrons. Show night Thursdays at 9 p.m. Karaoke Friday and Saturday nights, and with matinee on Sunday afternoon. TORPEDO 2829 W Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale Dance, shoot pool, drink til 4 a.m., 7 nights a week. Doors open at Midnight; dance til Dawn. VOODOO LOUNGE 111 S.W. 2nd Ave., Fort Lauderdale Gay and mixed every Sunday, with afternoon T-Dance and drink specials, then the popular Life’s a Drag show with gobs of female impersonators, hot dudes and the chicks who want to change them. WHISKEY BLUE 401 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale In the W Hotel on Fort Lauderdale Beach, downstairs it’s the elegant Whiskey Blue, upstairs the luxe Living Room: hot dance and social settings in a distinctive atmosphere with signature cocktails and upscale patrons. Indoor and outdoor lounges.
MIAMI/MIAMI BEACH BAR 721 721 N. Lincoln Lane, Miami Beach Plush, lush and flush, a luxe, sexy décor that includes soft carpeting, comfy couches and a Grown Up Playroom equipped with a flat screen TV for video games, pool table, ceiling-mounted speakers. Enjoy 5 to 10 p.m. happy hours including $6 premium drinks. CLUB BOI 777 NE 79 St., Miami With an urban vibe on the weekends, a diverse crowd and a diverse musical format, including Hip Hop, R&B, House, Reggae, Soca, Latin and Old School. Go-go bois and drink specials. CLUB SUGAR 2301 S.W. 32nd Ave., Miami Gay Latin scene, with Salsa, Merengue, Reggaeton, Hip Hop and House music always playing. DISCOTEKKA 950 NE 2nd Ave., Miami Hot music, hot scene, hot bartenders, and hot patrons in the hot heart of Downtown Miami. MOVA LOUNGE 1625 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach On Miami Beach’s famed Lincoln Road, never a cover. Drink specials all week long, live DJs, high energy music and a fun crowd getting their dance on til late. PALACE BAR 1200 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach This bar and restaurant in the heart of South Beach’s Art Deco District .Mouth-watering burgers, boys (and girls!). Weekend cabaret shows Thursday through Sunday.
ORLANDO/CENTRAL FLORIDA HANKS 5026 Edgewater Dr., Orlando, FL Friendly local bar with a cruisy attitude. One of Orlando’s oldest and friendliest Gay bars. Beer and Wine. Pool Tables, Video Games and a Large Patio area. HAMBURGER MARY’S BAR & GRILL 110 West Church Street, Orlando, FL Eat, Drink & Be Mary! Tuesday BINGO with Miss Sammy & Carol Lee, Wednesday Trivia with Doug Bouser and Leigh Shannon’s Cabaret Dinner Show is every Saturday, 7:30PM. PARLIAMENT HOUSE 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL All gay entertainment complex with 130 newly-remodeled hotel rooms. Cruisy Hotel, Nightclub, Pool Bar, Bear/Leather Bar. NEW PHOENIX 7124 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, FL Winter Park’s ONLY Gay & Lesbian Bar. Been There Forever! Karaoke every Tuesday and Friday at 9pm. Drag shows every Saturday night. Home of the $1 Jello shots. PULSE 1912 S Orange Ave., Orlando, FL Orlando’s Premier Gay Bar & Nightclub with Ultra Lounge, Jewel Box Dance Floor, and Adonis Dancers. Twisted Tuesdays with $10 All-U-Can Drink, College Wednesdays (18+) and 2-4-1 every Friday for Happy Hour. SAVOY ORLANDO 1913 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL “The hottest” gay bar and nightclub in Orlando. The MEN OF SAVOY Dancers from 6PM til 2AM every night in the main bar! Video Bar, Pool Tables. WYLDE'S 3557 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL Neighborhood bar South of Downtown Orlando. Jukebox, Video Games, Pool Tables and Dancers. PARADISE ORLANDO 1300 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL Orlando’s casual Gay & Lesbian bar and nightclub. Patio, Tiki Bar and Pool Tables. Happy Hour 4 til 9PM and drink specials every day til 9PM. BAR CODES (Formerly Bear Bar) 4453 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, FL Friendly Bar, Real Men and Bears... Oh My! Beer and Wine. Tends to attract the after work Happy Hour crowd.
TAMPA BAY 2606 2606 N. Armenia Ave, Tampa, FL Tampa's favorite Levi/leather bar has two floors (dimly lit), with the upstairs being the more cruisy. There's Hog House shop on-premises, and the 2606 is home to the Tampa Leather Club. Monday is Underwear Night, Tuesdays are $1 drinks and on Wednesdays, Longnecks are just $1.50. AZALEA LOUNGE 1502 N Florida Ave., Tampa, FL Exposed brick, cold beverages and friendly staff are the mainstays of the recently bloomed Florida Avenue flower! Neighborhood Bar, pool tables.
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CITY SIDE 3703 Henderson Blvd., Tampa, FL Tampa Bay’s “Best Happy Hour” til Midnight every night of the week. METRO STATION 900 North Dale Mabry, Tampa, FL Happy Hours at Metro Station start at 3PM weekdays and Saturdays, Sundays starts at 1PM. Thirsty Tuesdays, Flavored Martini’s on Wednesdays and turn up the heat on Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday with Hot Dancers. MIDTOWN TAVERN 9002 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, FL Neighborhood Bar / Lounge. Known for having the best amateur strip contest in Tampa. GBAR 1401 E 7th Ave, Tampa (Ybor City), FL Dance Club & Video Bar. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 4PM til 3AM. No cover before 10PM, $5 after with ID. VALENTINES NIGHTCLUB 7522 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa, FL Voted #1 Nightclub in Tampa. Open 7 days a week 3PM to 3AM. Monday, Latin Night, Tuesdays are Boys Night Out, Wednesdays are Karaoke Night, Thursdays, No Cover Dance Party, Fridays feature Hot Go-Go Girls, Saturdays are Latino Night “Uncut” and Sundays are Hip Hop Night. KEITH'S BAR 14906 Nebraska Ave., Tampa, FL Your friendly neighborhood gay bar. Offers pool, darts, and friendly gay country boy conversation. Key West Style patio. Happy hour every day opening till 8 on well and call with $2 longnecks. Never a cover charge. Ki Ki Ki III 1908 West Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL One of The Oldest Bars (beer and wine). A plain bar without pretention with it’s share of young regulars. RAINBOW ROOM 421 S. MacDill Avenue, Tampa, FL A mix between a neighborhood bar and a community center. Main bar with pool, darts, jukebox. Outdoor Tiki patio has a full volleyball court and live bands. Beer & Wine.
ST. PETERSBURG GEORGIES ALIBI 3100 3rd Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL One of the most popular gay bars in St. Pete. It’s always busy! Great VJ’s play Top 40 music. Mondays are Drag BINGO and Talent contest, Pool tourney Wednesdays, and the legendary Long Island Iced Tea nights on Thursdays. Ages 21 and over, never a cover! FLAMINGO RESORT 4601 34TH ST SOUTH, St. Petersburg, FL Florida’s “largest, luxury all gay resort”. Non-stop entertainment, great menu, and drinks served poolside at the Cabana. Weekly events and 2-4-1 Happy Hour daily from 11AM to 9PM. Saturday Happy Hour ($1 off) 11AM to 9PM. GEMINI LOUNGE 2315 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL Gemini Lounge aims to serve a variety of tastes; music, karaoke, Internet access, poetry readings and sports on TV. OAR HOUSE BAR & LIQUOR STORE 4807 22nd Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL Fun, friendly, laid-back atmosphere where you can get great drinks at cheap prices! Drama free! Happy Hour daily from 2PM til 9PM. HAYMARKET PUB 8308 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL More of a Men’s bar. Showing hot videos, beer specials, Saturday Underwear Night, and different events each week. HIDEAWAY 8302 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL The oldest Womyn’s bar in the country. Where Music is always the main entree! Coldest selection of beer in town. DETOUR 2612 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL The hottest club in St. Pete. Daily specials, karaoke nights and gogo boys from Rico's Men. Noted for it’s Saturday Drag shows and Karaoke nights. Full liquor bar.
MELBOURNE/COCOA
BAXTER'S LOUNGE 1519 S. Dale Mabry, Tampa, FL Tampa Happy Hour Tradition. Serving up some of the hottest dancers Wednesday thru Saturday nights at 10PM.
COLD KEG NIGHTCLUB 4060 West New Haven Avenue, Melbourne, FL Largest Gay Club in Melbourne Florida and the Premier Gay Bar & Nightclub in Brevard County.
FLIRT NIGHTCLUB & SHOWBAR 1909 N 15th St., Tampa, FL (Ybor City) Get that hometown feeling. Amazing lazer shows, big headliners and has been around for 6 years.
ULTRA LOUNGE 407 Brevard Avenue, Cocoa, FL Nestled in Cocoa Village, this bar has a full coffee bar, serving espresso, lattes, cappuccinos as well as draft beers & wine.
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FLORIDA BAR GUIDE
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THE METRO 2929 Plum Street, Jacksonville, FL The Metro Entertainment Complex has been serving the GLBT community for 17 years. Features a total of 7 different venues under one roof to choose from. Lesbo-A-Go-Go, monthly Tea Dances, special quest performers, female impersonators and live musicians. BOOT RACK SALOON 4751 Lenox Avenue, Jacksonville, FL Your Neighborhood Gay Bar - the place for men. Cold beer, music and a warm and cozy atmosphere. Hot men and cheap beer... We all know where that leads! AJ'S BAR & GRILL 10244 Atlantic Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL Annie and Janie invite you to stop by and see some old friends and meet some new ones! Great food, awesome service, delicious mixed drinks and live entertainment. PARK PLACE LOUNGE 931 King Street, Jacksonville, FL A fun and comfortable gay bar that’s accommodating to both gays and non-gays. A great place to watch your favorite game, or enjoy playing Wii while the liquor flows! THE NORM 2952 Roosevelt Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL A neighborhood bar. Everyone is welcome, but remember it is a girls bar! Beer and Wine only. 616 BAR 616 Park Street, Jacksonville, FL A warm and friendly atmosphere with a Patio bar. Karaoke on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Thursdays the Jax Bears are here for happy hour. Fridays and Saturdays enjoy the "Beer Blast". THREE LAYERS CAFE 1602 Walnut Street, Jacksonville, FL The name Three Layers comes from their large variety of delicious three layer cakes. An inviting loft style cafe located in Springfield. Enjoy a bistro style lunch or just stop in for your morning coffee. BO'S CORAL REEF 201 5th Avenue North, Jacksonville Beach, FL There are great shows Thursday through Sunday with the best of female impersonators. Pool tables, video games, and a large outdoor patio. The only gay bar on the beach!
INCAHOOTS 711 Edison Avenue, Jacksonville, FL This club offers good crowds every night. Recently remodeled with 3 bars and a friendly staff. Everyday is a different special. A fun place anytime. Full Liquor bar. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays except for special events. KICKBACKS GASTROPUB 910 King Street, Jacksonville, FL This is a top class venue serving over 600 different bottled beers, 84 beers on tap, breakfast, lunch and dinner 20hrs a day 7 days a week!
KWEST 705 Duval St., Key West, FL Daily Happy Hour from 3-8pm, and a piano sing-a-long every Wednesday night. Men dancing for men after 10PM. Weekly drink specials and "Wet Jockey" contests on Fridays. SALOON ONE 801 Duval Street, Key West, FL (Behind 801 Bar) This is the only gay leather bar in Key West. Conveniently located in the Bourbon Street Pub Complex.
PENSACOLA
LA TE DA 1125 Duval Street, Key West, FL An upscale hotel complex with 3 bars, cabaret and restaurant.
THE ROUNDUP 560 East Heinberg St, Pensacola, FL A neighborhood gay men’s bar... Pensacola’s Cowboy Bar. Open 2PM til 3AM daily.
PEARL’S PATIO BAR FOR WOMEN 525 United St., Key West, FL Tropical themed women's bar for gay women and gayfriendly women alike. Patio bar with a full bar featuring drinks like "Cosmopearlitans" and "Pearl's Passion".
CABARET 101 S Jefferson St # E, Pensacola, FL Not strictly a gay bar, the charming and friendly Cabaret is very much a fixture in Pensacola's GLBT community, drawing a mixed bunch each evening for happy hour, karaoke, videos, comedy shows, live music, and all-around hobnobbing and socializing.
KEY WEST BOURBON STREET PUB 724 Duval St., Key West, FL Opened in October of 1995 and has continued to grow ever since, it is now part of the larger collection of gay action in The Bourbon St. Pub Complex. Hot Go-Go boy dancers and a busy crowd. “Where the boys are!” 801 BOURBON BAR 801 Duval St., Key West, FL Cabaret shows upstairs with nightly performances by famed performers Sushi, Kylie, RV Beaumont, Margo, and others. This legendary establishment has been around for over 30 years, and host Happy Hour specials daily from 11AM - 8PM. AQUA NIGHTCLUB 711 Duval St., Key West, FL Aqua features the "Reality is a Drag" show six days a week, followed by dancing. Monday is karaoke night and don't miss the great happy hour specials from 3-8pm daily.
BOBBY’S MONKEY BAR 900 Simonton St., Key West, FL The gay Cheers style neighborhood bar of Key West. Happy Hour from Noon to 7pm, Karaoke on Sunday nights, pool tournaments on Tuesday nights at 7pm. Free Wi-Fi access. GARDEN OF EDEN 224 Duval Street, Key West, FL A Rooftop Bar with the BEST VIEWS in the city & “BEST Long Island Ice Teas made by Melinda!” Gay, straight, fat, or skinny... Doesn’t matter! Clothing optional - gay friendly!
WEST PALM BEACH H G ROOSTERS 823 Belvedere Road, West Palm Beach, FL Dark bar that attracts a fun party crowd. Camp is in at H.G.'s, where drag shows and bingo nights pack in crowds looking for laughs and fun. THE LOUNGE 517 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL Sushi, tropical views and tasty cocktails are accompanied by acclaimed resident DJ Daisy DeadPetals. FORT DIX BAR & CLUB 6205 Georgia Ave, West Palm Beach, FL Mostly local crowd looking to mingle and relax. The bar is a bit on the dark and dingy side, but who knows--that could be a plus.
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OFFICE PUB 3704 Cleveland Ave , Fort Myers, FL Oldest gay bar in South West Florida with a festive attitude. This bear-friendly Office likes to have fun with underwear parties, drag shows, Wii bowling! Check out their country and western music night on Saturdays.
TUBBY'S 4350 Fowler Street , Fort Myers, FL Where men come to compete (in tournaments). "Never a cover... always a smile" Tubby's is a no-frills video bar with a total of 10 TVs and two projection screens available for patrons to use as they wish. Add a six-hour 2-4-1 Happy Hour during the Wii tournaments on the big screen! THE BOTTOM LINE 3090 Evans Ave , Fort Myers, FL This gay entertainment complex is one of the longest running clubs in southwest Florida at over 20 years, The Bottom Line features 7 bars, pool tables, drag shows and occasional guest appearances by porno stars.
VENICE
TOTI: TAVERN ON THE ISLAND IN VENICE 127 Tampa Ave. East, Venice, FL This South Beach inspired gay bar, boasts a dance floor and a game room with pool tables and dart boards. It's clean, the music is mixed and the staff are friendly. A mixed crowd can be found most nights... younger, older (duh, this is Venice), gay and straight. Did you know that in the Caribbean, TOTI is slang for a beloved male appendage? How apropos.
GAINESVILLE
SPIKES 4130 Northwest 6th Street, Gainesville, FL It is a laid-back kind of place, with friendly bar staff. The crowds vary depending on the night. The bar has a nice open air patio area that is rarely used, but would be nice if it was.
UNIVERSITY CLUB 18 East University Avenue, Gainesville, FL This is a fairly average small college town gay bar. It is usually busy and crowded on Thursday nights.
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SUMMER SLAMS 13 Tracks Heating up the Dance Floor By MICK SANDOVAL The one place hotter than beaches this summer is our nation’s dance floors. Here’s a selection of the blazing new jams you should be slamming to.
“Taste the Night” Dalal A song about sexual tension in the dark, “Taste the Night” was originally written as a ballad. It’s an artful song with powerfully heartfelt and romantic lyrics. However, when combined with Dalal’s exuberant vocals and Tony Moran’s hard thumping beats, the ballad flourishes into a surefire club anthem.
“Can I Love You More” Tony Moran (featuring Trey Lorenz) Tony Moran’s love note to the dance floor is everything clubbers expect it to be: euphoric, lush, hard-pounding and exhilarating. Penned by the Grammynominated producer and remixer, the celebratory track features power house vocalist Trey Lorenz and hard-hitting remixes by Ralphi Rosario, Loverushuk and longtime Moran collaborator, Warren Rigg. Tony Moran’s love for dance music shines in this record and will surely inspire others to hear the beauty in the beat.
“See the New Hong Kong” Josie Cotton “See the New Hong Kong” is another superior crafted, brilliantly executed, expertly produced and highly intelligent pop track from the artist that first rose to fame in the eighties with “Johnny R U Queer”. Josie Cotton is as absurd, outlandish and as much a vocal dynamo as Cyndi Lauper. Remixes are by Love Rush U.K., CCW and Baggi Begovic.
“All About Sex” Sariah “All About Sex” is prime Sariah, packed with aggressive house beats, playful melodies and a colorful hook. The single recalls the synth ambience of Britney
Spear’s Blackout, one of the most influential pop albums of the last five years. Like Spears, Sariah’s lyrics are craftier than they appear, packed with hidden meanings and double entendres. Sariah’s digitally processed moans are particularly alluring; especially when she sings, “I can’t even try to take him in away.” The song will inspire clubbers to swap sweat on the dance floor and isn’t that all we all really want in a song?
“I Miss You” Maniacalm (featuring La La) The sonically stirring “I Miss You” is the follow-up to “Never Forget You,” LaLa’s debut track that caught fire in dance clubs and rose to #5 on the Dance Radio Airplay charts. The song is reminiscent of Dido’s “White Flag” but with its own brand of fierceness that will speak to an entirely new generation of dance music fans.
“Mr. Romeo” Emii (featuring Snoop Dogg) Emii’s latest track is a fastthumping party pleaser with playful lyrics that encourage clubbers to look past Mr. Right for Mr. Right Now. Snoop Dogg lays down a couple of slick rhymes, but it’s Emii’s polished vocals and the song’s melodic verses that are the real showstoppers in this summer treat.
“Fetish” Faith Michaels It’s one thing to admit you’re into fetish, it’s another to sing about it; but when you do both, and go so far as to admit it is feet you are into, now that’s pop visionary. Faith Michaels knew if she was going to get the attention she deserves on today’s crowded dance floor, it was time to crank up the scandal, and she doesn’t hold back. “Fetish” is this generation’s “Erotica”. Like Madonna’s ode to kink, Faith
Michael’s track is dark, underground, seedy and devilishly delectable. It dares you to submit to it and once you do, you will be begging for more.
“Fade” Kristine W Kristine W, the artist Billboard Magazine named as one of the top three dance icons of the first decade, is back with her seventh and final release from the Power of Music album. “Fade” is patented Kristine W, complete with soaring vocals, stomping beats and superior dance production. Just try to stand still while Miss W is tearing through the speakers; you won’t be able to. Maxi single includes productions by Buzz Junkies, Johnny Vicious, Royaal, Alex Acosta, Subgroover and DJ Chico.
Twist of Love Kimberly Davis (D1 Music) “Twist of Love,” featuring club remixes by John Rizzo, Twisted Dee and Keith Kemper, is a feverishly catchy dance anthem that is redefining the ‘twist’ track for the twenty-first century. It landed on Billboard’s top ten a few weeks ago and shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. Enjoy it while you can; great twist tracks only come around once every fifty summers.
“When the Lights Go Down” Grace It’s easy to see what drew American Idol’s Randy Jackson to discover Grace. Her debut dance track unleashes a throbbing bass line and pulsating kick drum that put her in league with Kesha’s “Blow” and Brit’s “Til the World Ends”. It’s a crowd pleasing single, balancing club-ready verses and a soaring pop chorus with steamy lyrics like “Your lips could be my lipstick” and “You’ll see what I can do with a microphone when we’re alone”.
“Trying To Leave Now” Aiden Leslie “Trying to Leave Now” proves Leslie is no onehit wonder. The lyrics to his follow up of “World’s Away” may try to push us away, but the song’s soulful rhythm lures listeners in. It’s complicated, but Leslie proves so are the contents in his head. He pours out another smart, smooth love groove with an extremely catchy chorus that is way above most other summer tracks in its musicality, yet leaves us questioning Leslie’s emotional availability.
“Gave Up on Love” Kelli Kelli gives new meaning to the term bitch track in this erotically charged, flavorfully angry unlove dance anthem. The former reality star (Bravo’s “NYC Prep”) sings how she’s not only fed up with love, she is ready to do whatever she has to in order to stamp a dramatic end to it. Kelli’s no-nonsense lyrics are paired with soaring grooves and ferocious beats courtesy of two masters of the remix, Michael Grant and Tony Moran.
“Beautiful” D Alexander Following this season’s Glee invasion comes the first male solo artist to boldly go where no male artist has ever (successfully) gone before: Divadom. A few years ago (maybe even months ago), a song like Beautiful would not have been taken seriously. A guy singing “move to the beat, I intend to get naughty”? But this is the age of Darren Criss’ Blake serenading Kurt and dance floors are ready to recognize talent in whatever package it comes in – especially one as attractive as D Alexander.
Listen to the Hottest DJ’s, Dance & Pop music on MyGayRadio on www.JumpOnMarksList.com
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OUT IN FLORIDA
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Miami
CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE
MIAMI MR. GAY
The Manor Entertainment Complex presents The Center Of The Universe Gathering on Saturday, July 2nd , from 6:30 p.m. to 3:30 a.m. Sorcerers, wizards, witches, princesses, warlords, magicians, hobbits and other ghastly creatures from across the galaxy will be converging on the Mystical Manor for a diplomatic mission involving potions and preposterousness. There will be dance floor position jostling from competing star system crews so, to avoid embarrassing defeat, we advise touching up on “the force” before mounting your broomstick/unicorn/spaceship/ beam-me-down-machine. The Loose Cantina Band will be playing from 10 to 11:30 p.m. followed by D.J. Irish Neal the Leprechaun plus D.J. Harry Pothead. The Manor is located at 2345 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. H
Who will be the next Miami Mr. Gay? Find out on Saturday, July 2, from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Hosted by Tony Ferro, Michael Stanley and Brian Gorman. For bottle service and table reservation, call (305) 455-2231. To be held at the Lords Hotel South Beach, 1120 Collins Avenue. H
EQUALITEA TEA DANCE & POOL PARTY Sunday, July 24, from 2 to 7 p.m., at 641 NW 36th Street in Oakland Park. Featurinig D.J. Julian Marsh with complimentary full bar and food. Free Hopper Shuttle (gratuity not included) and parking at Auto Zone at 35th and Andrews. Tickets are $25/door ($20/in advance at PrideCenterFlorida.org). 100% of the proceeds to benefit The Pride Center at Equality Park. Door prize: one week stay at Eagle Creek Log Cabin in Maggie Valley, NC, near Asheville. Transportation not included. (www.RoaringCreekCabins.com). Sponsorships available: Supporting ($100), VIP ($250) & Angel ($500) Contact Jason Burns or Thomas Cross for more information. Want to volunteer? Contact Thomas Cross or Jeff Black. H
BROWARD BARES IT 2011 Friday, August 19, from 7 to 11 p.m. Voted Fort Lauderdale’s #1 fundraiser. Bigger, badder and bawdier – this year is being super-sized for your pleasure! Have you ever wanted to see some of your favorite local and national singers, dancers, comedians and performers take their clothes off ? How about seeing them tempt you by doing a slow, sexy striptease? Well, here is your chance because on Friday, August 19th, inside the Paradise Live Theater at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino (1 Seminole Drive in Hollywood, FL.), a host of them will be getting together for one night and taking “IT” off for you all in the name of a good cause. Broward Bares It is a hilarious, sexy, steamy and zany night of burlesque, comedy and vaudeville dance acts and songs presented onstage in a Broadway atmosphere. The show climaxes in a not-to-be-missed mega-steamy finale, erupting with hot bodies all over the stage to make sure you get a happy ending. Be prepared to laugh, sweat, whistle, cat call, scream and salivate because the performers are going to give you all they got. After all, you wouldn’t want it any other way. For more information, visit www.Browardbaresit.com. H
VICTOR CALDERONE AT FRIENDS POOL PARTY Victor Calderone at Friends Pool Party at Surfcomber (Doubletree, 1717 Collins Avenue on South Beach on Sunday, July 3rd, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. 21+. Victor Calderone with The Martinez Brothers, Behrouz and Rony Seikaly. Get tickets at http://space.wantickets.com/Events/S howEvent.aspx?eventId=90985, use promotional code “TRAVIS ROGERS” to save $5 off each ticket. For more information, contact Travis at (954)536-4377 or send an email to travis@weekendweapons.com". H
URGE WITH D.J. ABEL Sunday, July 3, from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Dream, 1532 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach. The biggest party of Miami Beach Pride returns for the July 4th long weekend. While Dream is one of the most sought after venues on the beach, with superb sound and lighting, they are severely limited in the number of people they can accommodate. Therefore, only 500 advance tickets are being made available, with the first 100 priced at only $20. Prices will increase on a tiered scale, so the sooner you buy tickets, the more you will save. 21 and over. Get tickets exclusively with ShowClix, http://getik.it/52098?f H
BRITNEY SPEARS @ AMERICAN AIRLINES ARENA See Britney Spears live on the Femme Fatale Tour with special guest Nicki Minaj and opening performances by Jessie and the Toy Boys and Nervo. Tickets are now on sale at Ticketmaster.com. Get your tickets now if you want to be a part of this epic Britney Spears Femme Fatale Tour. The concert will be held on Friday July 22nd, 2011 from 6 to 10 p.m., at the American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. H
“CIRQUE ELOIZE” Following sold-out engagements in Montreal and Toronto, world-renowned Cirque Éloize presents the criticallyacclaimed new production. Cirque Eloize, in collaboration with Cirque du Soleil are offering a spectacular, mindblowing fusion of new theatrical circus and urban dance . There is a very special pre-sale and discount opportunity to see Cirque Éloize ID at the Adrienne Arsht Center this summer.. Tickets start at $25 - Go to www.arshtcenter.org and enter code: PREMIUMCIRQUE to receive a 15% ticket discount exclusively for MDGLCC members. Opening July 26. H
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Bay Area 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND AT FLAMINGO RESORT Friday, July 1st, from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m., at the Flamingo Resort, 4601 34th St. S. in St. Petersburg. No cover, no resort passes needed to swim and plenty of free parking. Action-packed fun all weekend, pool-party games, tdance, Star-Spangled cabaret shows, drink specials, food, experience code bar. Get blown away by the new Hurricane Bar. Dance to videos at the main bar, cheer at the sports bar. Drag shows and drinks at the Blu Room Bar. Don't forget to get a prime seat at their cabana bar, where you'll be able to see the Gulfport fireworks visible from Flamingo Resort. Book your rooms now by call (727) 321-5000 for reservations. For more information, visit www.FlamingoFLA.com.H
EAGLE LEATHER BAR REUNION PARTY … Starring porn star Tom Wolfe on Sunday, July 3, from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. You are going to want to get your leather gear on and head out to the hottest party of the season. You will be joining hundreds of the hottest leathermen from Central Florida for a packed night of raw male sexuality. One of the biggest names in the porn industry, Tom Wolfe, will be there to meet and perform for you and possibly get him to autograph one of his DVDs they will be giving away. No cover all night with $1 drinks from 9 p.m. to midnight. Doors open at 9 p.m. To be held at the Eagle Social Nightclub Complex, 1909 N. 15 Street in Ybor City. H
BIG BANG WEEKEND Sawmill Campground’s Independence Holiday celebration, June 30th through July 4th, at the Sawmill Campground, 21710 U.S. Highway 98 (Off of Hwy 75 between Tampa & Orlando) in Dade City. A fundraiser for 22 Florida Gay Pride events. 5 days of all-out fun with something for every one of their thousands of guests. Florida’s biggest gay fireworks show, incredible dining options all weekend throughout their 120 acres. Four weekend deejays. Thursday kick-off party with D.J. Brianna, special Friday 8 p.m. charity BINGO, Joker Poker Friday hosted by Arica Love and the Sawmill Entertainers with 52 great prizes, Red, White and Blue Friday highenergy dance party starring D.J. Brianna. Cowboy Country parties on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with line dancing with D.J. Jeff. Beer Bust Friday, Saturday and Sunday hosted by charity groups. Pool parties with a deejay, games, hot drinks and hot boys on Saturday and Sunday. Independence Day show on Sunday starring Arica Love, Sawmill Entertainers and surprises. The Big Bang Pool Party on July 4th with hot strippers, deejay and hot drink boys.H
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Central Florida PRINCE POPPYCOCK Prince Poppycock at the Parliament House (410 N Orange Blossom Trail in downtown Orlando), Saturday, July 2nd, from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Runner up in “America’s Got Talent, the one and only Prince Poppycock will be joining the Parliament House Resort for an awesome concert. No advance ticket sales. Come in early and celebrate with us all night long! H
DJ POWER INFINITI ROCKS THE PARLIAMENT HOUSE Music lovers will be excited to hear that DJ Power Infiniti will be powering the Outdoor T-Dance at the Parliament House on Sunday, July 3rd from 5pm until 2am. There will be a $1 BBQ from 5pm to 9pm and $1 well & drafts from 9pm to Midnight.
HRC DISCO BOWLING Sunday, August 7, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bowling fun with great music for equality. Individual tickets are $35 which includes HRC General Membership. Team price (4 to 5 people) $135/ $165 includes which HRC General Membership. Tickets for individuals/ teams can be purchased on-line with no transaction fees. Go to www.hrc.org/ orlandobowl. Sponsorships available, contact HRC-Orlando@cfl.rr.com for a sponsorship packet today. Disco Bowling wil be held at the Colonial Lanes, 400 N. Primrose Drive in Orlando. H
ORLANDO PRIDE October 7 through 10. Nationally recognized celebrities and entertainment, respected speakers, scores of vendors, and the longest parade in the history of Orlando Pride all have contributed to this special event that continues to break records for Orlando LGBT festivals in which attendance has doubled or tripled each year. The Come Out with Pride committee is comprised of volunteers who are dedicated to bringing a free, world-class event to Central Florida. For more information, visit www.comeoutwithpride.com. H
BACK DOOR BUMBY Revolution Nightclub (375 S. Bumby Ave (408) in Downtown Orlando) along with GRINDR (iPhone App) and MyFlexRadio presents: “Back Door Bumby: Enter Through the Back” every 3rd Thursday of the month. This is Orlando's premier college night as you've never seen it before. No cover when you show your GRINDR or MyFlexRadio App. No cover ‘til 11pm for those 21+ (18+ welcome) and no cover ‘til 12 midnight with college or theme park ID. Free drinks 11 to 11:30 p.m. Drinks specials throughout the night. Performances by: Shantell D’Marco and Macaviti. D.J. Joanie on the decks in the disco area and V.J. J.B. Burgos in the Hydrate Video Bar. H
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A Tasty Touch of Old Florida... With a View! The Riverside Grille By TIM SLIVINSKI If you are looking for a taste of Old Florida and what defined this area before “the boom,” then take a trip up A1A to Pompano Beach and have dinner at The Riverside Grille. Open since 1993, this unassuming restaurant along the Intracoastal offers a wide selection of good food without being fussy or pretentious. If it’s a breezy summer evening, ask for a table outside and enjoy a beautiful sunset as boats travel by on the waterway. It may seem a bit touristy, but so what? We all need to be tourists in our own backyard once in a while. On a balmy evening, my partner and I sat at a table on the deck as the sun played behind the clouds. A recent brief rain shower had cooled the air a bit and a gentle breeze made it a pleasant South Florida evening. We each ordered a cocktail and began to peruse the menu. The Riverside Grille leans heavily toward seafood, as you might expect from its location. If you are a shellfish devotee, the Riverside offers raw bar selections of oysters and clams. In addition are several cold and hot appetizer options. We decided to try the Clams Casino from the hot starter menu. Topped with herb butter crumbs and applewood smoked bacon, we drizzled a
jean’s kitchen
little lemon and enjoyed the play of citrus, smoke and brine that each clam contained. We were off to a good start! Given our location on the water and the Riverside’s large seafood options, we both decided that something from the sea would be our entrée choice. I decided to begin with a small Caesar salad. I was impressed when a beautiful green salad arrived with the dressing completely on the side. (Overly dressed salads are a pet peeve of mine.) The Riverside automatically allows you to dress your greens as lightly or as heavily as you desire. Impressive. It is also worth noting that the salad arrived with shavings of thinly planed parmesan. Why any restaurant uses that powdery stuff in the canister on a Caesar salad is beyond me. Impressive again. All salad dressings are made on the premises, and this one was tangy and creamy and clearly not out of a bottle. Finally, the croutons were cut and toasted from their own bread. This was a real salad. Likewise, my partner opted for the traditional wedge salad, his favorite, and he pronounced its blue cheese dressing as ‘simply delicious’. After reading through the menu options several times and hearing the day’s fresh catches, we were ready to
Stuffed Tomatoes Provençal
It is sometimes claimed that the ancient Romans, as well as medieval cooks, stuffed animals with other animals. An anonymous Andalusian cookbook from the 13th century includes a recipe for a ram stuffed with small birds; and a similar recipe for a camel stuffed with sheep stuffed with bustards stuffed with carp stuffed with egg. British celebrity chef Hugh FearnleyWhittingstall has championed the tenbird roast, calling it "one of the most spectacular and delicious roasts you can lay before your loved ones at Yuletide". A large turkey is stuffed with a goose, duck, mallard, guinea fowl, chicken, pheasant, partridge, pigeon and woodcock. The roast feeds around 30 people and, in addition to the ten birds, it also includes stuffing made from two pounds of sausage meat and half a pound of streaky bacon, sage, port and red wine! Today I’m keeping it simple… we’ll just use a pound of meat and some tomatoes • 6 big ripe beef tomatoes (or 3 and 3 green bell peppers ) • 1/2 pound Italian pork sausage meat • 1/2 pound lean ground beef • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 1/2 cup parsley, finely chopped • 1/4 cup thinly sliced basil • Salt and freshly ground pepper • 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Preheat the oven to 325°. Cut across the tomatoes horizontally, leaving the top half
slighter smaller than the bottom to create a lid. Set a strainer over a medium bowl. Scoop the tomato seeds into the strainer; press on the seeds to extract the juice. Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop out the center of the tomatoes and coarsely chop them. Add the chopped centers to the juice in the bowl. Add the sausage, beef, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, pepper and 2-1/2 tablespoons of the olive oil and knead to combine. Set the tomatoes in a large baking dish and season with salt. Spoon the filling into the tomatoes, cover with the lids and drizzle with the remaining 2 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil. Bake for about 1 1/2 hours, basting occasionally, until the tomatoes are soft. You are the chef ! H
@
Jean Doherty is the Chef and Owner of Le Patio Restaurant in Wilton Manors (954) 530-4641
select our entrees. I chose Almond Crusted Snapper, while my cohort opted for Key Lime Grilled Grouper. When my plate arrived, the lightly crusted and herbed snapper was succulent and fork tender. The almonds provided not only a bit of flavor, but some added texture with their crunch. I ordered black beans and rice as my side, and the portion was more than generous and tasty without being overly spicy. Cohort’s grouper was a nicely grilled filet, and he loved the drizzle of key lime, cilantro and citrus that offered a zing of flavor to the moistly grilled grouper. He had a side of mashed potatoes that were perfectly home-style and both plates offered green beans as a veggie accompaniment. As the sun set and created a puzzle with the clouds, our palates were both happy with seafood dinners on the water — how utterly South Florida! If your dining partner or friends are not seafood eaters, fear not, for the Riverside Grille also offers menu options in steak, chicken, pork chops – and even vegetarian; many of these dishes are created daily by the restaurant’s chef, depending on what is fresh and available that inspires his food muse. We did not order it, but a nearby table was raving
THE RIVERSIDE GRILLE 125 N. Riverside Drive, Pompano Beach, FL 954-941-2499 over a cup of clam chowder. For the summer, the Riverside Grille is offering an amazing deal if you are a lobster lover. For $49.95, it’s a Dinner for Two Feature. Each person receives a whole steamed lobster along with the potato and vegetable of the day, as well as a bottle of featured wine. We saw several tables happily enjoying their lobster with their lobster bibs tightly in place. In addition to dinner, the Riverside Grille is open for lunch daily. It is a great reminder of the Florida of days past before restaurants became so corporate. Next time you feel the need to revisit those days and enjoy a lunch or dinner on the Intracoastal, take the drive up to Pompano Beach and enjoy delicious seafood at the Riverside Grille. H
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Summer Meltdown
Melt away unwanted fat with these simple common sense techniques!
By TOM BONANTI
Another sultry South Florida summer is well underway. Guys are stripping down, taking it off and strutting their stuff at the beach, around the pool or any old place they feel like getting naked. The question is: “Are you ready to show ‘em your stuff ?” If you’re embarrassed by that muffin top or extra jiggle in your trunk, then here are some surefire fat loss tips that you can use right now! No pills or starvation techniques needed – just a little common sense and old fashioned discipline. First of all, know your enemy. Fast food equals junk food, and junk food never did anyone any good. Besides clogging your arteries, eating fast food will make you fat, period! Even if you pass on the super-size burgers, fries and shakes and go for seemingly healthier selections, you are only fooling yourself. For instance, deep-fried chicken or fish is even fattier than most hamburgers. A more than occasional trip to the vending machine at work can add up to beaucoup calories and an extra pound or two per week! Cross these enemies off your list and pack your arsenal of food for the day. You’ll end up healthier and leaner in the long run.
Secondly, read the labels when you food shop and check fat content. There are a whopping 9 calories in every gram of fat, as opposed to 4 calories in each gram of carbs or protein. Total fat should never exceed 25 percent of total calories. And saturated fat should never make up more than one third of the total fat or one tenth of total calories. Here’s another hint: never grocery shop when you’re hungry – your defenses will be more easily worn down by temptation. Thirdly, be a homebody. Clean out your cupboards, make your list of healthy foods and prepare those meals at home. You can never be sure how much fat, grease or other unhealthy stuff you’ll be eating even in the best restaurants. It’s also easier to control portion size at home and not be tempted by a sinful desert tray. Fourthly, schedule your meals. Eating smaller meals more frequently – 5 or 6 per day – better fuels the body and reduces fat storage. This approach also bumps up your metabolism and gives your muscles a more steady supply of protein if you are working out. Sure, this takes effort and planning, but so does
every worthwhile project in life. Finally, HALT before you act. From now on, say “HALT” before you eat. “H” stands for genuine hunger or habit. If you’re physically hungry, then eat. But often you eat out of habit – stop it now! The remaining letters refer to other wrong reasons for eating: “A” because you are anxious; “L” because you’re lonely or sad; and “T” because you’re tired. Think before you eat and you’ll be surprised by the changes in your shape! There they are: Five simple tips to melt off the pounds that are keeping you from showing off that pumped up body you’ve been working out all year long. For more tips on pumping up and leaning out contact TrainerTomB@aol.com! H
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Tom Bonanti, is a certified personal trainer and owner of Pump’n Inc gym at 1271 NE 9th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, Facebook: TrainerTomB. www.pumpnincgym.com
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For the Love of Fido
By MICHAEL FRENCH
Dogs. “Misty, Nigel, Bristol, Scottie, or Mona”. Whatever their name, dog lovers cannot imagine life without their “best friend”. According to the latest census, there are almost 50 million households with a canine companion sharing their home. The dog is just as excited and thrilled to see us again, whether we are away for an hour or a day. “Fido’s” love and dedication to us never wavers. The dog’s love for its master is truly unconditional. Bank accounts, hood ornaments, designer labels, job titles, bad hair, a few extra pounds, gym bodies; they mean nothing to him. In general, dogs are far less maintenance than most people. Acquaintances come and go, boyfriends break our hearts, but our dogs never disappoint us. Dog spells God backwards. No matter what kind of day we’ve had, our cares seem to melt away the moment our
beloved friend greets us at the door with honest, enthusiastic joy. A dog’s priceless gifts of love, loyalty and devotion are rare constants in an ever changing and unpredictable world. Dogs are infinitely more than a tail wagging, tongue hanging, furry creature that welcomes us home like a candle in the window. They are family in every sense of the word. Dogs “know” more about us than we do them. I believe that may be due to their ability at and their willingness to practice the rapidly disappearing art of “listening” to us, even if we haven’t uttered a word. They have an uncanny telepathy, knowing when we are sad or happy. They pay attention. Loneliness is far less likely having a dog. Unlike many humans, they give us our space when we need it and quietly snuggle up to us, showing their love, without having to ask for it during those times we need to be comforted and someone to “talk” to. Medical studies have shown our blood pressure falls just by touching a dog, and people who share their lives with them tend to live longer. Other studies have shown sharing your life with a dog can reduce stress and ward off depression. When we’re out walking, having a dog with us can make us more approachable, giving people a reason to stop and chat, thereby increasing the number of people we meet, hence an opportunity to
increase our network of friends, which also is a great stress reliever. People who claim they don’t like dogs are different. I usually don’t mesh with them; the chemistry just isn’t there. Evidence shows individuals who say they don’t like dogs are more selfcentered and emotionally incapable of real depth of feelings or displaying affection, lacking a nurturing and loving instinct. Many of these people are also very picky about many other things. Commonly, it’s suggested those people who don’t like dogs can’t be trusted. My experience has shown there is truth to that thought. Dogs, if we’re willing to learn, help teach us how to give without expecting something in return – to be open, and to love another being for everything they are and are not. Having and loving a dog teaches us to care about something other than ourselves. Call me biased, it’s just what I’ve learned during the almost 50 years I’ve willingly, gratefully and lovingly shared my life with some of the best friends I’ll ever have. (I have the privilege to share my life with four of them now.) They don’t “hold me back” and are not
too much “work!” True friends are worth it! Dogs can show us the kind of relationship we should seek to have with another human being. To love and be loved is the greatest joy on Earth. If you’ve ever been lucky enough to share your love and life with a dog, you’ll be blessed to know that joy. Now, “Give me your paw and roll over!” Good boy! H
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STYLE
“Groom Out the Heat”
Top 5 Beauty Essentials for Men To Beat The Summer Heat As we all know, living in South Florida has its advantages and, well, disadvantages. While many of us enjoy the sun, tanning, going shirtless and, of course, the beautiful beaches, during the hot, humid summer months this time of the year can be very harsh on our skin and appearance. Everything from sunburned skin to wrinkles plays a major role in this situation. After carefully researching and taking consideration to the products currently on the market, here are my top five "beauty" picks that can help you survive these hot, summer months: • Jack Black All-Over Wash $14 • www.sephora.com. This is a 3-in-1 combination for the active man. It’s a nondrying body wash, conditioning shampoo with UV filters and a face cleanser as well. It’s important to opt for a non-drying face wash during the summer months to retain moisture and avoid peeling.
• Kiehl's Acai' Damage Minimizing Cleanser $25 • www.kiehls.com. The Style Concierge recommends this product because it’s 100% ecofriendly and is a natural cleanser for the skin. It’s perfect for the heat and restores and repairs damaged skin with the help of the "power" antioxidant acai'. • Peter Thomas Roth Uber-Dry Sunscreen SPF 30 $26 • www.sephora.com. This is a lightweight sunscreen that provides both UVA/UVB protection while leaving the skin feeling smooth and dry. • Anthony Logistics Self Tanner with Anti-Aging Complex $30 • www.anthony.com Style Concierge recommends this product
By ERIC CHRISTIAN because it allows you to have a sun-kissed glow without being exposed to the sun's harmful rays. This tanning formula helps erase the signs of aging by providing antioxidant protection. • Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25 $7.50 • www.sephora.com. I personally use this product because it does a great job at protecting the lips from the sun, with soothing effects of shea butter, vitamin E and green tea. It’s also great for the brows as well. Style Concierge urges you to be smart about your skin and the damage the sun and heat can cause. This way you will continue to look healthy and handsome all year long. H
Eric Christian is a style consultant @ and can be reached at eric@styleconciergemiami.com
Michael French, is Agenda’s Home from Home columnist. Contact Michael at mf7954fla@gmail.com
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Crazy 4 Key West! The Conch Republic By PAUL RUBIO Though Key West failed in its formal claim of independence from the United States, the iconoclastic “Conch Republic” never really took well to dictated conformity and authority. Distance and demure allowed the two-by-four-mile island to evolve as an isolated refuge for those who deviated from supposed societal norms, and by the late 1970s, Key West had become a Mecca for wild times, unadulterated freedom and unapologetic homosexuality. The concept of “One Human Family” has always governed everyday life in the Conch Republic, where everyone “around the world is entitled to equal rights, dignity and respect.” Nowadays, this concept has been branded and distributed on 1.3 million bumper stickers, reminding the greater U.S. of the Keys’ exemplary philosophy. Prom King or pariah, everyone is welcome in Key West. While most American cities tend to follow slash and burn trends, Key West’s predictability and reverence for history is a welcome respite. The gingerbread houses, coconut palms, bougainvillea and lucid waters that inspired Tennessee Williams and Ernest Hemingway forever remain “Old Key West”. The larger than life, eccentric personalities and unwavering spirit of the island’s residents contrast modern society’s desperation to “fit in”. A drunken stupor through the “Pink Triangle” invariably ends up in a random bed (or the Island House hot tub). And both the sunsets and sunrises seem to grow more breathtaking over the years. Key West boasts remarkable offerings of quaint gay guesthouses and full-scale resorts. Just recently, Equator Resort (www.equatorresort.com; 305.294.7775) added an upper sun deck for tanning all
your Lever 2000 body parts, while Pearl’s Rainbow, (www.pearlsrainbow.com, 305.292.1450) once exclusively female, became all-welcoming. The Island House mayhem rages on 24/7, nary a shortage of foreskin and alcohol taking center stage around the pool. The intense summer heat means fewer reasons for remaining clothed; and summer break means more college cuties breaking through their white-knuckled anxiety, giving into the temptations of the House! One of the island’s top resorts, the Hyatt Key West on Duval Street (www.keywest.hyatt.com; 305.809.1234), has become a new GLBT favorite for those looking to experience the Conch Republic’s latest offerings of modern luxury. While it’s a well-known fact that all of Key West is gay-friendly, the Hyatt Key West has pro-actively courted the GLBT market with pride packages and gay-centric marketing campaigns. Contrasting the palm-tree print/Tommy Bahamas style of most Keys’ hotel rooms, the Hyatt Key West is a blend of contemporary design and Florida color and flavor (delightfully without the overkill). All guest rooms flaunt private balconies, ideal for enjoying the sea breeze with a glass of bubbly or Chardonnay. The pool is everything and anything you’d expect from a high-end resort and the hotel’s signature restaurant, SHOR American Bar and Grill (www.shorgrill.com), offers sensational, waterfront dining with a daily catch direct from the docks! Across the water from the Hyatt at beautiful Sunset Key, Latitudes (www.westinsunsetkeycottages.com/latitudes; 305.292.5300) has unveiled the results of a protracted facelift, revealing a new, sleek, modern edge that spills onto Sunset’s downy sands, doling out
even more of the delicious local seafood dishes that originally made this beachfront gem famous. Though the abundance of fresh seafood keeps the island’s top chefs at the top of their game, there’s definitely more than just amazing fruits of the sea to be had around the island. La Creperie (www.lacreperiekeywest.com; 305.517.6799) serves authentic northwestern French delicacies and crepe creations for both breakfast and lunch. Smack in the heart of Fleming Street’s “guesthouse row,” Azur (www.azurkeywest.com; 305.292.2987) has expanded its already vast, mouthwatering Mediterranean menu to include homemade gnocchi, tapas and more Greek-influenced dishes. The perfectly executed “toasted gnocchi with pine nuts, arugula and truffle oil,” and the divine “charred octopus marinated with garlic, lemon zest and Italian parsley” showcase the diverse gastronomic talents and evolution of chefs Michael Mosi and Drew Wenzel. After dinner, Front Street teems with partygoers and inebriation opportunities, with essentially four main bars and clubs to seek a night of promiscuous fun. Divas rule at Aqua Nightclub (711 Duval Street, (305) 294-0555, aquakeywest.com), where the city’s renowned drag queens take center stage, attracting straights and gays alike. Come 11 PM, most gay life has converged at the riotous and frisky Bourbon Street Pub (724 Duval Street, (305) 296-1992, burbonstreetpub.com), spread between the two bars in the front and the poolside bar in the back. Saloon 1 (801 Duval Street, (305) 294-4737), Key West’s only Levi, leather and uniform bar, regularly hosts a weekend contest awarding a prize to the biggest or most attractive shlong in the house. Now, I’ll toast to that! H Photos courtesy, Paul Rubio, Pearl’s Rainbow
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EMPLOYMENT Courtyard Cafe: Seeking experienced part-time overnight shift server accustomed to high volume. Also looking for flexible part-time cooks with experience flipping eggs and making guests happy. Apply in person: 2211 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors RETAIL SALES POSITION - full or part-time available immediately! Call (954)873-3889
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BABYSITTING NOA SWORDY - Your local baby-sitter! Qualified pre-school teacher. Clean background check. Fluent in English, French, and Hebrew. Available day and night. Call for affordable rates. (954)579-9661
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COUNSELING 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 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 NIGHTCLUB POSITIONS - TWIST - The popular gay bar in South Beach seeks responsible applicants with experience for all positions. Email resume to Valentino@twistsobe.com SOUTH BEACH - Part time sales associate for adult bookstore. Send resume to kdbstyle@yahoo.com BARTENDERS - FULL & PART TIME POSITIONS available at Michele's Dining Lounge, 2761 East Oakland Park Blvd, Fort Lauderdale. Call Michele at 954.821.6877 or submit your resume to Michele@Michelesdl.com
HOME IMPROVEMENT 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 E-mail: DerekGallaway@att.net
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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 at 954-975-8660 - www.elitemoving.com RED BOX MOVING - OWNER IN TRUCK ON EVERY MOVE. CALL NORBERT DIRECTLY. Affordable, Reliable, Careful. MV#567/INSURED. (954) 305-9176 or (561) 506-5540 www.redboxmoving.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
RENTALS / FTL POINSETTIA HEIGHTS - Very nice efficiency, furnished with DirecTV & utilities incl. Private entrance. $625/mo. F/S (954)682-9428 WILTON MANORS/ALIBI AREA - Beautiful 2/1 Tile floors, updated kitchen, W/D hook-ups, private patio & parking. CAC, hurricane windows. No pets, no smoking. F/L/S $1000/mo. (954)682-9428 MIDDLE RIVER TERRACE - Newly Renovated 1/1, private fenced yard, very clean, window wall a/c, great location by Wilton Drive. $759/mo. Call (954)683-4411 Re/Max Preferred. POINSETTIA HEIGHTS - Beautifully Landscaped: Private yard, CAC, large 1/1, huge walk-in closet, shared laundry, xlnt location. Small pet okay. Last one left. $950/mo. Call 954-683-4411 Re/Max Preferred LAKERIDGE 3/2 - Apartment is part of multi-family property. Great rental price on a property listed for short sale. $1250/mo. Call 954-683-4411. Re/Max Preferred SOUTH MIDDLE RIVER - With Shared Pool. Detached, private. Large granite kitchen, more. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, direct access to W/D, and courtyard with pool, pet okay. $1100/mo. Call 954-683-4411 Re/Max Preferred OAKLAND PARK - Efficiency For the Small Budget: New kitchenette being installed now. Ready by 7/1. Hot water, garbage, electric included. $625/mo. Call 954-683-4411. Re/Max Preferred COLOHATCHEE AREA - Nicely furnished studio! Satellite & electric incl. $625/mo. F/S (954)682-9428
FURNISHED / RENTALS / FTL PERFECT RELOCATION RENTALS – 3-6 MONTHS From $295/week & $1100/month Beautiful Studio, 1 & 2 BR Apts. Turn key, fully furnished & equipped, clothing optional pool, laundry, parking. Close to Gay & Nude Beaches. Pets Welcome. Includes utilities, cable, telephone, Wi-Fi Internet. 954-927-0090 or visit www.LibertySuites.com
ROOMMATES ROOMMATE TO SHARE OAKLAND PARK POOL HOME Large 4BD/3BA ranch style house w/ screened pool. Bedroom has walk-in closet and private bath. All utilities, internet, and DirecTV incl. Share with two guys and a cat. No smoking, drugs or additional pets. Please be responsible and employed. $600/mo, available now. Michael (954)540-3543
RENTALS / FTL RETAIL SPACE AVAILABLE - WILTON DRIVE! Assume lease or negotiate new one. Call (954)608-6170 S.E. FTL 2/1 DUPLEX - Conveniently located. Newer carpet in bedrooms, Tile floors, small fenced back yard and coin W/D on property. Next to walking path, 2 blocks from marina, less than a mile to HWY 95, only 5 miles to beach. $900 a month after discount, first and $1000 Security moves you in. Call Kevin 719-439-5082 or Todd 954-868-7015 WILTON MANORS - 9 Unit gay complex 1/1 - 129 NW 25th Street. Pool, tile floors, private patio/yard. No dogs. Available 7/1/11 $750/mo. F/L/S (954)326-9096 WILTON MANORS GAY COMPLEX - Remodeled 1/1, CAC, Tile Floors, Heated Pool, Pets OK. One Block to Wilton Drive! $800/mo.-$1700 moves you in. Call (954)600-0620
LICENSED MASSAGE 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.
LICENSED MASSAGE 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 AWESOME MASSAGE BY JIM - Offering Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports and Lomi Lomi Massage. All in a very comfortable, relaxed and Private Massage Studio conveniently located On the SE Corner of Oakland Park Blvd and Federal Hwy - Nationally Certified and Licensed MM22293 www.massagebyjim.com or call Jim Libonati (954)600-5843 info@massagebyjim.com
WILTON MANORS 2/1 - Walking distance to the Drive! Huge living room and closets, terrazzo floors, CAC, patio, parking. $1100/mo. F&S (954)566-8049 WILTON MANORS 2/1 DUPLEX - CAC, tile floors, fenced yard, plenty of parking! Pets OK! $895/mo. F/S (954)608-8305 ROYAL PARK - Near Wilton Manors 1BR/1.5BA, $825$900/mo. 2BR/2BA, $950 - $1100/mo. Gated Security, Clubhouse, Pools, Gym, Sauna and Steam room. Pets OK. Cable/Water/Trash included. Call Naim Naqi, Broker/ SFG, Realtors (954)565.2025 WILTON MANORS - 9 Unit gay complex 1/1- 129 NW 25th Street. Clothing optional Pool, tile floors, private patio/yard. No dogs. $715/mo. F/S (954)326-9096 WILTON MANORS - Room to Rent, $500/mo. Newly decorated room in a 2/2 condo, includes all utilities, use of WiFi internet, cable TV, Laundry facilities on site, Swimming pool, within walking distance of Wilton Drive and all its Bars/ Restaurants. non smoking/ no pets. John: 954 709 2138
ROOM FOR RENT - Semi-furnished with Cable TV, all utilities included. Close to Wilton Manors, must be pet-friendly, have your own car. $650/mo. Call (954)522-8228
SPIRITUALITY 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. DIGNITY FT LAUDERDALE - Roman Catholic Mass every Sunday 7 PM at Holy Angels CC 2917 NE 6th Ave, Wilton Manors. Monthly socials and more. There is always room at our table. Dignityftl@bellsouth.net.
UPHOLSTERY GOLD COAST UPHOLSTERY - Re-upholstering, Cushions, Throw pillows, Large selection of fabric to choose from or bring in your own fabric. Broward / Dade. Palm Beach. Call Edgar (954) 491-4937
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