FLORIDAAGENDA.COM JUNE 19, 2013 H ISSUE 187
Stonewall Pride Schedule
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Your body is your temple, take care of it! All the products we carry in our store are products that we would eat ourselves. Everything you will find here has our personal stamp of approval and has been hand selected for quality, nutrition and feel good factor, healthy and fun!
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1305 E Commercial Blvd Oakland Park 33334 954-771-9770 9am-9pm
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SUNSHINE STATE
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Marco Rubio Says Immigration Reform Shouldn’t Include Gay Couples Washington, D.C. – Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) threatened to walk away from his own comprehensive immigration
reform bill yet again if an amendment passes to provide LGBT couples with the same rights as heterosexual couples. Rubio says, “If this bill has something in it that gives gay couples immigration rights and so forth, it kills the bill. I’m done. I’m off it and I’ve said that repeatedly. I don’t think that’s going to happen and it shouldn’t happen. This is already a difficult enough issue as it is.” Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Calif.) sees Rubio as a dishonest, untrustworthy leader of the Republican party. In a recent interview with World Net Daily, Rohrabacher said, “Rubio is so mixed up and so confused. I think he has given up his rightful place to advise any of us in Washington what to do, and he’s given up any right to be trusted by the American people.” He went on to say, “This is just a lot of weasel words that Rubio and these people are throwing in. They’re going to legalize the status of people here illegally. Once they do that, that is an amnesty.”
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is sad and disappointed that my dads could get fired just for being gay. We wouldn’t have as much food, and I wouldn’t get new clothes and toys, and it would make me very sad.” The video is part of a campaign lead by activists to encourage the passing of the federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act. If passed, the act would protect an estimated 20 million LGBT Americans. Alegra goes on to say, “What I want my dad to get for this Father’s Day would be job security. Please President Obama. It could help so many families like mine.” Florida is one of the 29 states without employment nondiscrimination laws.
KEVIN MILLER Adam Lambert, an idol of St. Petersburg student Chris Martin
Family’s Son Sent Home for Wearing Makeup
Ten-Year-Old Wants Job Security for Her Gay Dads Tampa, FL – Alegra Scarbrough may only be ten-years-old, but her compassion and interest in LGBT rights make her wise beyond her years. It isn’t out of left-field though. Alegra, only in the fifth grade, lives with her two dads, Jarrod and Les. In a video for the equal rights activist group, Get Equal, Alegra says: “What it would make me feel
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St. Petersburg, FL – Chris Martin, a student at Meadowlawn Middle School in St. Petersburg, FL, was sent home not only for his T-shirt, but for his makeup as well. The student’s mother, Katelynn Martin, says, “The principal refused to allow him to proudly enjoy the last school-day of the year.” The school principal, Claud Effiom, told the 14-year-old that his makeup was “ridiculous, unnecessary and distracting,” according to Equality Florida. The ACLU sent a letter to the school district stating that sending a male student home for wearing makeup violated sex discrimination laws. In the letter, the ACLU states: “The Code of Student Conduct for Pinellas County Schools does not prohibit students from wearing makeup--in fact, it does not discuss makeup at all . . .applying a different rule to Chris because he is male constitutes sex discrimination in violation of the United States Constitution, the
Florida Constitution, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Principal Effiom apparently has certain beliefs regarding how boys and girls should present themselves, but school officials may not discriminate based on gender stereotypes.” Katelynn has now started a petition on MoveOn.org that has 10,400+ signatures at the time of print. Katelynn went on to say, “It is unacceptable that these things should be allowed to occur anywhere, but most especially in a community as diverse as Pinellas County.”
THE TOP LGBT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
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COVER STORY
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OF 2013 (SO FAR)
June 19, 2013 • ISSUE 187
FOUNDER MULTIMEDIA PLATFORMS BOBBY BLAIR – CEO / MANAGING PARTNER
PUBLISHER BOBBY BLAIR
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER KEVIN HOPPER
BY GRANT JAMES
C
ason Crane will be the first openly gay person to climb the Seven Summits. His expedition was photographed and proudly shown on his various social media accounts, providing him with a huge LGBT fan base. In the photos, Crane is seen posing with rainbow flags as he ascends Mt. Everest, eventually reaching the summit – the sixth summit that he’s reached to date. The journey chronicled (which is already 18 months in) is just one part of The Rainbow Summits Project – an initiative to raise funds and awareness for The Trevor Project, the leading LGBT suicide and crisis prevention organization, by climbing the highest peak on each continent, known as the Seven Summits. Crane will be the first openly gay person to climb all of the summits, in addition to becoming the fifth youngest person ever to do so. The next summit on his list is Mt. McKinley (also known as Denali), in Alaska. Denali will be his last climb in his Seven Summits quest. Crane told the Florida Agenda, “I’m very excited to be on Denali this year because it’s actually the 100th anniversary of the first ascent of the mountain. As an American, it’s very exciting to conclude my journey in our own country.” Crane told us his next “Everest” is starting school at Princeton University in the fall. He plans to study international relations. When speaking of the support from the LGBT community, Crane was nothing short of gracious: “I’ve received a lot of positive feedback from the LGBT
FIBONACCIBLUE
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Minnesota same-sex marriage ally
EDITOR GRANT JAMES
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Cason Crane
community. I love sharing my story with other people, especially LGBT youth, and so I speak at a lot of schools. I always find these experiences incredibly rewarding and inspiring because the young people I meet are doing such great work in their local communities to improve the climate for LGBT people in general. The other young people I meet – especially in more conservative areas – are the real heroes. They keep me going up these big mountains and inspire me every day. I think that the top way that my journey and Rainbow Summits Project has changed me is that I’m now
more aware of my own strengths and weaknesses as a person. When one takes on the challenges in their life, they have an opportunity to learn a lot about themselves. The past year has been filled with challenges and also some exceptionally rewarding moments, and I’m very lucky to have learned a lot from my experiences. I’m glad that I decided to pursue this journey because, though it was very difficult at times, I know that I came out a stronger and more balanced person as a result, and I feel like the same can be said for a lot of the personal challenges or obstacles faced by LGBTQ youth today: it might seem tough, but it’s worth it.” Crane is just the role model that LGBT youth (and community) is in need of, and thankfully, he’s here for them. Crane urged that if you ever need a teammate or just someone to chat with, to call the Trevor Lifeline at 1-866-4-U-TREVOR. “They’re always there for you,” he says.
ALL MATERIAL in the Florida Agenda is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the Florida Agenda. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers and cartoonists published herein is neither inferred or implied. The appearance of names or pictorial representation does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of that person or persons. Although this paper is supported by many fine advertisers, the Agenda cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers. EDITORIAL POSITIONS of the Florida Agenda are expressed in editorials and in editors’ notes as determined by the paper’s editors. Other opinions are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Florida Agenda or its staff. TO SUBMIT A LETTER OR COMMENTARY: Letters should be fewer than 400 words; commentaries should be fewer than 750 words. Submissions may be edited for content and length, and must include a name, address and phone number for verification. Send submissions by e-mail to Editor@floridaagenda.com by fax to 954-566-7900 or by regular mail to the Agenda office, attn: Letters/Commentary. MAIN OFFICE/ SALES & CLASSIFIEDS: 2435 North Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, Florida 33305 Phone 954-380-8563 FAX 954-380-8567 A bureau of LGBTQNation.com www.floridaagenda.com Printed by Forum Publishing Group (954) 574-5321 MEDIA ADVISORY BOARD Alan Beck, Keith Blackburn, Robert Boo, Reece Darham, Richard Hack, Kevin Hopper, Paul Hugo, Peter Jackson, Krishan Manners, Terry DeCarlo, Mark Negrete, Jackson Padgett, Gary Santis, Jason Tamanini, Brett Tannenbaum, Dean Trantalis, Victor Zepka © 2013, Mutimedia Platforms LLC. All rights reserved.
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NATION
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We’re now even seeing television commercials portraying same-sex couples. That’s something I guess I didn’t expect to see anytime soon.”
Folk Singer Jenny Owen Youngs Comes Out as “Super Gay” Montclair, NJ – Folk singer Jenny Owen Youngs announced last week that not only is she “super gay,” but she’s also engaged. According to Towleroad, Youngs came out via a blog post on Everyone Is Gay. She referred to herself as “super gay,” saying that she didn’t want to make coming out a big deal because she doesn’t want coming out “to be a thing that anyone has to do.” Youngs said that she longs for the day that coming out will be as unimportant as your hair color, but wrote, “I’ve come to realize in recent months that a big part of my desire to hide this aspect of myself was rooted in those dusty old feelings: that there is something wrong, something bad, something less-than about being gay.” She went on to say: “I think it is damaging and isolating for young people to look out into the world and not see a representation of their experience. To encounter others who are like you is to know that you are not alone. Even if you never meet them in real life, these representatives help to contextualize you—they are proof that you are part of something. You are not an anomaly. You are not a mistake.” The statement
James Costos
was followed by news of her engagement to fiance Kristin Russo, co-founder of EveryoneIsGay.com.
Girl Sells Lemonade for Equality Across from Westboro Baptist Church HQ Topeka, KS – Five-year-old Jayden Sink just wants peace and equality. The daughter of Jon Sink, founder of the philanthropic arts group FRESHCASSETTE – Creative Compassion, Jayden was raised with the message of equality and peace in the foreground. When she was finally able to grasp the concept of Equality House (the rainbow-colored house that faces Westboro’s Topeka compound, created by Planting Peace’s founder Aaron Jackson), she decided to do something. She did what any other five-year-old would do in the same situation: she sold lemonade. After understanding (as much as she can at the tender age of five) that the church across the street was spreading messages of hate, Jayden decided to sell lemonade for peace and equality. Her banner read, “Pink Lemonade for Peace: $1 Suggested Donation.” It didn’t take long for supporters to come in numbers, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that the church responded equally fast. On Monday, their marquee read “FAGS & ENABLERS ALL BURN IN HELL LEMONADE WON’T COOL ANY TONGUES.”
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Little Rock, AR – During a broadcast with conservative group Concerned Women for America, former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee openly discussed his shock and distress to seeing LGBT representation on television. The former governor’s (and failed presidential candidate’s) opinion on same-sex marriage likely stems from the 3.5% LGBT population in Arkansas, according to a 2012 Gallup poll. In the audio clip (available to hear on Right Wing Watch), Huckabee speaks about the negative impact of marriage equality, and the effect it has on businesses and other people: “Of course everyone will say, ‘Oh no, people still have their rights,’ but they don’t. And every fear that people had has in fact come true. That this is being forced in textbooks on how marriage is depicted.
Rufus Gifford
Virginia Beach, VA – Conservative Evangelist Pat Robertson states that the Boy Scouts’s ruling on allowing openly gay youths into the organization “boggles the mind.” Robertson blames Hollywood and “liberal media” for promoting LGBT rights, saying “It breaks your heart to see the Boy Scouts...torn up in order to accommodate a few kids that want to do sex with each other.” Robertson joins the ranks of the growing conservative critics who disapprove of the decision, such as Gov. Rick Perry (R-Texas) who said he was “greatly disappointed” by the decision and Bryan Fischer (of the American Family Association) who said that the existence of gay scouts will create a “sexual tension on camping trips.”
COURTESY OF PLANETIVY.COM
Mike Huckabee: Shocked by LGBT Representation
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Washington, D.C. – Last Friday, President Obama nominated two openly gay U.S. Ambassadors. If confirmed, the grand total of out ambassadors would be six. Former HBO executive James Costos was nominated as the U.S. ambassador to Spain, while Rufus Gifford, former finance official for the Presidential Inaugural Committee was nominated as the U.S. ambassador to Denmark. Human Rights Campaign president Chad Griffin states, “Ambassador-designate James Costos is a true citizen of the world. He has incredible global business experience and is a respected and innovative leader...[he’s] an oustanding choice to be the nation’s next ambassador to Spain.” Speaking of Gifford, Griffin said, “[He’s] a terrific choice to represent our country in Denmark. His demonstrated leadership and unwavering commitment to democracy and human rights will serve him well as he represents America’s interests abroad. I urge the Senate to confirm his nomination.” It’s important to note that Denmark and Spain are two of the 13 countries worldwide that have legalized marriage equality.
Pat Robertson Says Gays Are Ruining Boy Scouts
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Obama Nominates Two More Openly Gay Ambassadors
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BRIAN NEAL FITNESS & HEALTH FOUNDATION THRIVES IN SOUTH FLORIDA BY GRANT JAMES
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lorida resident and fitness expert Brian Neal launched his not-for-profit foundation in March of 2011 to great success. He’s helped those who are financially challenged while living with HIV/AIDS and/or other lifealtering illnesses to maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle. The Foundation provides gym memberships at Wilton Manors’s Steel Gym, hourlong weekly group workouts and lifestyle educational classes, such as nutrition and life coaching. These invaluable classes cover all aspects crucial to living a balanced lifestyle: Diet, exercise, well-being, positive life choices as well as mentoring and life coaching. “I decided to create the Foundation as I felt there was a void in the community for helping people to live a healthy lifestyle through exercise along with nutritional and life coaching,” Neal said. Brian had a successful training gym in Atlanta and moved to Fort Lauderdale six years ago, where he began offering personal training sessions at the Better Bodies Gym. After opening a personal training studio, Brian said, “I realized my motivation for training people solely for profit was misplaced; I wanted to train those who could not afford the expense associated with hiring trainers, psychologists and nutritionists-
-which is why I decided to launch a foundation.” Neal states, “I also felt it necessary to help people who are less fortunate and who are HIV+. Medications are so expensive; Broward County has one of the highest rates of new cases of HIV in the country. With government cutbacks on funding, there is an extreme need to support those people within our community.” The Foundation gives people support by leading the way to living a healthy and fit lifestyle, provides them an opportunity to meet other people in similar positions and helps them build friendships. In fact, Brian Neal mentors recipients through his personal experiences of bad decisions which include a DUI in the past and other self-destructive actions that have empowered him to improve his own life and pass those experiences on to others. “These past tragedies have shaped who I am for the better. I look forward to helping my recipients with my life experiences.” Full gym membership scholarships are now available for community members who quality. Applicants must have a life altering illness and earn less than $2,000 per month. To learn more about scholarships available to Steel Gym, visit briannealfitness.org.
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“ Testimonials like these help me realize every day that my foundation is making a difference.”
“I have been with the foundation from the beginning, and it has been and continues to be a positive and fun experience. All the people involved from the participants to the dedicated trainers keep the motivation-factor going. Plus healthy lifestyle classes to round it all off. What a great way to make new friends and be involved. Thanks Brian!” -C.B. “The Brian Neal fitness Foundation has given me new direction. The foundation has given me a way to connect with other people, make new friends, connect with old friends, and learn new exercises routines in a fun way. Boot camp classes have helped me to stave off depression and keep me motivated to stay healthy and live longer. Although difficult at first, with persistence and the positive
Steel Gym The Brian Neal Fitness Foundation provides members to scholarships to Wilton Manors Steel Gym
guidance of Brian Neal, Michael, and the other trainers, I have been able to exceed my expectations to lose weight and stay fit, as well as get personalized help with my particular problem areas. The complimentary Steel Gym membership has been a great way for me to use the variety of machines and free weights as well as the other aerobic, yoga and specialized classes offered by Steel Gym on the days other than when foundation classes are scheduled. The yoga class with Robert has been instrumental in learning how to relax and stretch tense muscles and learn controlled breathing techniques to quiet my mind. The nutrition class has been helpful in expelling certain untruths about food that I’ve gathered over the years. The Life coach class has helped me to see things in a different light and to remove myself from the self-imposed
isolationist prison that I had built over the years. All this has helped my self-esteem tremendously. The Foundation has helped me to break out of my rut.” -G.M. “I just wanted you to know that things are getting better with me and my health issues, and I have you and the BN Foundation to thank. My Pulmonary Hypertension had gotten so bad that I was barely walking a street block, before I was out of breath, or I could only get through bowling one ball during league play, before having to wait a minute to catch my breath. Thanks to the personal workout program that I joined when I became a member of BN Foundation, I learned to take the steps at a different tempo, therefore I am able to walk further. When I did my six-
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The Foundation is proud to recognize its many sponsors.
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Dancing with the South Florida Stars III
TJ GILLESPIE
• Chuck Panozzo • Dean Trantalis • Florida Agenda • Greater Fort Lauderdale Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce • Grave’s Foundation • Guy Magazine • Howard Cohen • Intense Fitness • Jackson Padgett and Mark Negrette (Alibi and Bill’s) • Michael Festa • PALS Project • Pride Center • Pride South Florida • Rainbow Business Coalition • Reece Darham • Steel Gym g or • Stork’s ss. e n t lFi • Subway ea n an Bri • The Manor Complex • Wings N Things • A huge, special thank you to all of the Dancing with the South Florida Stars dancers, local entertainers, hosts, MCs, private auction donors, and of course, to a great venue at the Manor Complex. orth
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new acquaintances at Intense Fitness, and they were all different shapes and sexes. It wasn’t only just about HIV+/AIDS patients, but those with severe cardiac or hip issues and so much more. I am not sure if people actually stop to tell you what a change (even a small change) is special in our lives. It is because you were thoughtful enough to see a need in our community and (unlike so many others who would prefer to cause DRAMA or just ignore a nee) you stepped up to the plate. I just needed and wanted to say…. Thank You!” -MH. “I have been an active member since the program started January 2012. I have benefited tremendously from the program, the boot camps, the nutrition classes, the mentoring classes and the Saturday
walks. The trainers are great and also very understanding of our health issues and work with us at our individual levels. I also enjoy the free membership to the gym. It actually motivates me to go at least twice a week--sometimes more. The program has taught me a lot about nutrition, as well as dealing with and understanding better my health and mental state. My doctors are happy about my progress and have seen a difference in my health as well. I will continue to be in the program. I am a Brian Neal Foundation member.” -L.G. “I am proud to be a part of the Brain Neal Fitness Foundation. I have been a member of the foundation for over two years now. When
I first started with the foundation, my body fat was over 22%. The foundation helped me to get it now down to now 16%, with the help of the boot camp, and the nutrition class. The second reason i am proud to be a part of the foundation is I get to meet other people like me and talk about life. The third reason I am proud to be a part of the foundation, I get a gym membership to work out at the Steel Gym. Another object is to meet more people at the gym and have a workout friend. The four reason i am proud to be a member of the foundation is having life mentoring classes. Without Brian and the Foundation, i would not be able to achieve those goals.” -D.G.
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minute walk test last month at the Miami VA Pulmonary Function Lab, I walked an extra 120 feet, then I had two months prior. That might not sound like a big deal to some, but to those of us who aren’t sure where our next breath is coming from, it is a HELL of a improvement. Now I did have to stop taking the private classes, because I couldn’t get up and down to do some of the exercises. The Cardiac/Pulmonary pressures in my heart kept me from working out to my best ability. But now I am able to use the exercise bike at the Steel Gym in the middle of the day. Better yet, I do not have to be concerned I am backing up peoples work-out sessions, because I am slow. I have about 20 pounds to lose to get me to a better weight, but I wouldn’t even be that close had it not been for your concern and caring. I made some great
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In an effort for full transparency to ensure integrity and honesty, all financial documentation can be found at BrianNealFittness.org In a recent third-party financial audit, it was brought to Brian’s attention that there was an inaccurate representation on his Foundation’s Guidestar account. Unknown to Brian as new Executive Director, Guidestar stated that the Foundation had three full-time and three part time employees, when in fact the Foundation only houses independent contractors, volunteers and consultants. In the recent third-party Foundation financial audit, Brian Neal was informed it is inappropriate to be compensated for his services by using the Foundation ATM card to obtain payment. “In the future I will only take compensation for my services from my Foundation in the form of a check. I will never compensate myself using the Foundation ATM card. I have been informed this is not appropriate and I will never do so again. Some ATM charges were for foundation supplies, etc. Receipts were misplaced, and in these cases for accounting, it was classified as my compensation. However, I will continue to provide high quality fitness and health programming in our community. It is a great passion of mine to help others and I will always stay focused and committed to doing just that.” On April 11 2013, Brian Neal was appointed Executive Director to manage all aspects of the Brian Neal Fitness & Health Foundation with the assistance of his life partner and board member Bobby Blair.
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THRIVING IN SOUTH FLORIDA WITH BOBBY BLAIR “Thriving In South Florida With Bobby Blair” is my new weekly publisher’s column, one designed to empower and inspire readers. Each week, I will be featuring members of our community who share their real stories of bravery, tenacity and a strong will to survive. Their dilemmas and hardships are ones to which we can all relate. Yet, in the end, these leaders came out on top. Combining our print edition with our strong online presence, I will be bringing the community inspirational stories in a whole
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new way. In addition to the print version of the column, we will also feature an Internet talk show segment through guymag.net and floridaagenda.com. You’ll be able to see episodes of the talk show “Thriving In South Florida With Bobby Blair,” exclusively through our sites. This week’s incredible success story follows singer-songwriter, Richard Cortez. I hope that you enjoy both the talk show and the feature below.
FROM THE PUBLISHER BOBBY BLAIR
ADDITIONAL WRITING BY GRANT JAMES
RICHARD CORTEZ
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lorida-native singer-songwriter Richard Cortez is one of the community’s finest youths. This year’s “Mr. Stonewall” helps people daily as both a performer and a Recreational Therapy Technician, but many people don’t know about his dark past. Though he is open about his history with drugs, alcohol and sex, it’s easy to forget that it was even a real part of his life. Although he knew he was gay at the age of 13, his environment wasn’t always as nurturing as Richard had hoped for. His mother, a case of undiagnosed Bipolar I disorder, his father, a sexually-inappropriate womanizer who was at times, homophobic. When Richard wasn’t able to process and cope with what was going on around him, he did what many young kids who are looking for a way out would do: drugs. While he didn’t delve into harder drugs, he found that whatever he was doing was in excess: at times, he was using around-the-clock. He hit his personal rock-bottom when he overdosed and nearly died on one reckless night. Richard recalls, “As my vision was blurring and I was projectile vomiting, I said to myself, ‘God, if you let me get through this I promise that I’ll change my life.’ When I woke up the next day, I drove home and I made my way to my first AA Meeting.” The decision isn’t an easy one to make. Richard admits, “It was really, really, REALLY difficult. I didn’t want to let go of the bar-lifestyle. I thought all of my friends would stop calling.” For Richard, AA Meetings worked: they helped him reach sobriety. After getting sober, he bought himself a plant. He found that he was very interested in horticulture – a form of recreation therapy. The symbolic hobby lead Richard to find that recreational activities really helped him as a coping mechanism. Now, three years later, he’s a Recreational Therapy Technician. The job is a dream come true for Cortez, who believes that recreation is a fantastic way for others to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Recreation therapy (also known as therapeutic recreation) is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions that are based upon the assessed needs of individuals with illness and/or disabling conditions. The holistic, drug-free therapy can help people of all ages reach their goals. It gives participants the opportunity to feel good about themselves and their accomplishments, learn new skills that will enhance self-esteem, develop healthy coping techniques, relieve tension and to cooperate with others through group activities. Cortez is the definition of a game-changer and a positive role model for the whole community. He urges everyone to hit their “inner pause button” when they are tense or upset, asking them to take the time to think about whether or not the decision they are about to make will in turn impact them in a positive way or not. Will your decision be a step toward your goals in life, or will it be a step away from where you should be headed? The advice may sound simple to some, but it can mean the world. It can be the difference between a negative impact on your life, or a positive one. For the full interview, visit floridaagenda.com and guymag.net
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AT BILL’S FILLING STATION
PHOTOS BY BIG DEWITTE
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k o o L T U O
MR. & MRS. STONEWALL
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BY GRANT JAMES
THE WEEK
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The Week 6/20 to 6/26
Stonewall Pride, New Kids On The Block and Bunny Yeager
Rent June 22nd at Andrews Living Arts Center
THURSDAY 6/20
FRIDAY 6/21
500 Years of Florida’s History
Crookers In Miami
Divas, Feathers & Beads
In celebration of the 500th anniversary of Florida’s discovery by Ponce De Leon, Bonnet House commemorates the event with a special art exhibit titled, “Viva Florida 500 Best in Show Series.” The exhibit--which is only one of hundreds of events occurring year-round-- features artwork inspired by 500 years of Florida history, dating back to its discovery by Leon’s convoy in 1513. While the history of Florida’s Native Americans dates back even further, Spain’s discovery in 1513 paved the way for generations to come. The goal of “Viva Florida” is to promote the 500 years of history through people, places and cultural achievements. The exhibit kicks off on the 20th and will include wine, cheese and raffles. 6 p.m. Gallery 928. 928 NE 20th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33304.
Electronic producer/DJ Crookers--once a duo--is the solo project of Francesco “Phra” Barbaglia. Crookers is most known for his 2008 remix of Kid Cudi’s “Day ‘n’ Nite,” which was a commercial success, gaining heavy plays on various radio stations, eventually peaking at #2 on the UK Singles Chart. The song gave Crookers some street cred, which lead to the success of their next two full-length LPs, “Tons of Friends” and “Dr Gonzo.” 11 p.m. Grand Central. 697 N Miami Ave, Miami, 33136.
Kick off pride weekend with a Mardi Gras-inspired party at the Manor. As the only 18+ party on the Drive and featuring performances by RuPaul’s Drag Race season five contestant Serena, Estephania, TP Lords and Sasha, you won’t want to miss this decadent soiree. Sounds by DJ JPS and DJ Miik in the hip-hop lounge. 10:30 p.m. The Manor. 2345 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
To have your event listed, please email editor@floridaagenda.com
Brad Paisley Country music star Brad Paisley is anything but traditional. His blend of country, rock and pop has earned him a unique niche in the music industry, with a diverse and expansive group of fans. Paisley has charted 32 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs
PRIDE EVENTS
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Rent
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Score some free giveaways from Daisy Deadpetals and then stick around for a set by house DJ David. Did we mention $3 Long Islands from 10 p.m. til close? Guest performances by Alandra Matthews and Erika Norell. 10 p.m. Rumors Bar & Grill. 2426 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
Absolut Vodka Party at Alibi w/ DJ Michael Tank Join Alibi for an Absolut Vodka party that’s an absolute-must. From the unveiling of a special, limited edition Alibi Absolut bottle, to an Absolut ice luge, you won’t want to miss this party. Special giveaways and sounds by DJ Michael Tank. 8 p.m. Alibi. 2266 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
Growl Pride Party at Bills w/ VJs Kenny Poole & Barry Browder Bill’s weekly bear party, Growl, will be cranked all the way up this weekend for a special Stonewall edition. VJs Kenny Poole and Barry Browder will be mixing the best dance videos all night long, so suit up and shine your boots because it’s going to be a long night. 10 p.m. Bill’s Filling Station. 2209 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
SATURDAY 6/22 VJs Andy Ajar and Kenny Poole at Bill’s Join VJs Andy Ajar and Kenny Poole for some indoors fun to escape the heat, or head outside to the outdoor bar to catch the parade. Bill’s Filling Station. 2209 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
Stonewall Parade w/ Grand Marshall Craig Stevens and DJ set by Kidd Madonny Celebrate with pride at this year’s Stonewall Parade lead by Grand Marshall Craig Stevens. Costumes and wild floats are guaranteed! Stick around after the parade for a DJ set by Kidd Madonny! 7:30 p.m. Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
Carnival at Manor Join The Manor for their Stonewall edition of Epic Saturdays, with hostess Viva Mirage. Watch the parade from the balcony and experience a unique party experience with food trucks, an outdoor stage, live entertainment and eye-popping production by Erika Norell. Sounds by DJ Larry Larr. If you’re looking for some Latino fire, check out the Noche Latina room starting at 10:30 p.m. The Manor. 2345 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
Joe Posa as Joan Rivers and Jimmy James at Rumors Joe Posa as Joan Rivers is the next best thing to the real Joan Rivers. The impersonation is spot on, and at times, you won’t even be able to tell the difference. Seriously. Join Posa and a special performance by recording artist Jimmy James for an unforgettable, entertaining night. 9:30 p.m. Rumors Bar & Grill. 2426 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
VJs Andy Ajar and Kenny Poole at Bill’s Join VJs Andy Ajar and Kenny Poole for some indoors fun to escape the heat, or head outside to the outdoor bar and enjoy the Stonewall Market Place and Street Festival. Bill’s Filling Station. 2209 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
Market Place and Street Festival Stonewall Pride isn’t only about the parade. It’s expanded to a two-day experience, with a market place and street festival taking place on Sunday. With local vendors and businesses, food trucks, live performances and more, you won’t want to miss this Sunday Funday. 11 a.m. Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 33305.
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Andrews Living Arts Center has been on a roll with musicals lately. Their recent successful production of “Rent” has been gaining such a serious interest from the community that they’ve decided to add an extra slew of dates to make sure that everyone gets to see it. Centering on a group of young artists and musicians living in New York during the during the 80s and 90s, particularly in the Bohemian Alphabet City. The musical touches on themes of drug addiction, death and HIV/AIDS during the height of the epidemic. Runs Thursday to Sundays until June 30. 8 p.m. Andrews Living Arts Studio. 23 NW 5th St, Fort Lauderdale, 33301.
FRIDAY 6/21 Daisy Deadpetals Show at Rumors w/ Alandra Matthews, Erika Norell
KuttnerPix
The surge of boy bands in the 90’s was a trend that both boys and girls alike could get behind. We know you miss those old school jams--we do too. After the recent revival of boy bands, we’re left wanting more. Where is Donnie Wahlberg when you need him anyways? Thankfully, a ridiculously nostalgic package has been put together and is heading your way. Like now. Picture this: New Kids on the Block, 98 Degrees and Boyz II Men--all on one stage, in one night. The appropriately titled “Package Tour” is hard to take in all at once, and it’s hard to hear you over your screaming inner childhood, so we’ll just assume you’re excited. 7:30 p.m. BB&T Center. 1 Panther Pkwy, Sunrise, 33323.
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Misty Eyez (6/16)
SATURDAY 6/22
New Kids On The Block, 98 Degrees and Boyz II Men Under One Roof
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chart (with 18 reaching #1) and has even recently played with The Rolling Stones in Philadelphia. Touring in support of his newest album, “Wheelhouse,” Paisley will be making a stop in West Palm for one night only. 7 p.m. Cruzan Amphitheatre. 601 Sansburys Way, West Palm Beach, 33411.
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Bunny Yeager’s fascinating life both as a model and photographer, from early on in her career until her retirement. Both Sides of the Camera runs until October 6. 10 a.m. Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale. 1 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, 33301.
TUESDAY 6/25 Picasso drawing 6/25
SUNDAY 6/23
Summer Daze If Saturday destroyed you, all you need is some good old relaxation. As part of a summer concert series, Summer Daze is designed to keep you as cool as a cucumber. Rock out to Whole Wheat Bread or relax to local reggae band Fourth Dimension—the choice is yours. The Lake Worth street will be transformed into an outdoor party for everybody, complete with pools and wake skate competitions. Beat the heat and hop in the pool or head inside Propaganda for some drinks and live entertainment. 11 a.m. Propaganda. 6 South J Street, Lake Worth, 33460.
MONDAY 6/24
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Bunny Yeager: Both Sides of the Camera Bunny Yeager was one of the most photographed models in Miami, eventually becoming more acquainted with life behind the other side of the camera as a photographer. After meeting Bettie Page in 1954, Yeager ended up shooting the majority of Page’s photographs for the rest of the year. With photographer Irving Klaw, Yeager played a crucial role in Page’s fame, most noticeably with her photos for Playboy magazine. Both Sides of the Camera captures
100 Years of French Drawings
If you haven’t had the opportunity to catch the 100 Years of French Drawings exhibit at the Boca Museum, we recommend checking it out before its closing on July 7. Over 40 works demonstrate a variety of techniques and styles, from pen and ink to watercolor and crayon. Featuring works by Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, Matisse, Picasso, Rendon and more, this exhibit is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you won’t want to miss. Through July 7. 10 a.m. Boca Museum of Art. 501 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, 33432.
WEDNESDAY 6/26
Dr. Sketchy’s: Not Your Momma’s Drawing Class Dr. Sketchy’s isn’t your average figure drawing class. Models are surprisingly not nude and the poses range from quick two-minute sketches to 20-minute sketches. Noise is also a predominant factor as Dr. Sketchy’s plays music throughout-both good and “bad.” While Dr. Sketchy’s is usually held in bars, this particular session will be held at the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami, so no burlesque shows this time. Models for this session will be local burlesque performers Jezebelle Red and Morgan La Rue, of the Shimmy Shake Revue. 7 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art. 770 NE 125th St, North Miami, 33161.
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BAR MAP 1) ALIBI 2266 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 2) BILL’S FILLING STATION 2209 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
15) NAKED GRAPE 2163 Wilton Drive Wilton manors
16) NEW MOON 2440 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
17) PJ’S CORNER 3) BOARDWALK POCKET 1721 N Andrews Ave 924 North Flagler Drive Fort Lauderdale Wilton Manors 4) BOOM 18) RAMROD 2232 Wilton Drive 1508 NE 4th Ave Wilton Manors Fort Lauderdale 5) CORNER PUB 19) ROSIE’S BAR & 1915 N Andrews Ave GRILL Wilton Manors 2449 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 6) CUBBY HOLE 823 N Federal Hwy 20) RUMORS Fort Lauderdale BAR & GRILL 2426 Wilton Drive 7) DEPOT CABANA Wilton Manors BAR AND GRILL 2935 N Federal Hwy 21) SCANDALS SALOON Fort Lauderdale 3073 NE 6th Ave Wilton Manors 8) DUDES 3270 NE 33rd St 22) SIDELINES Fort Lauderdale 2031 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 9) INFINITY LOUNGE 2184 WIlton Drive 23) SMARTY PANTS Wilton Manors 2400 E Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale 10) JOHNNY’S 1116 W Broward Blvd 24) THE STABLE Fort Lauderdale 205 E Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale 11) LIPS 1421 E Oakland Park Blvd 25) TORPEDO Oakland Park 2829 W Broward Blvd 12)THE MANOR COMPLEX Fort Lauderdale 2345 Wilton Drive 26) TROPICS Wilton Manors 2000 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 13) MONA’S 502 E Sunrise Blvd 27) VILLAGE PUB Fort Lauderdale 2283 Wilton Drive 14) MONKEY BUSINESS Wilton Manors 2740 N Andrews Ave Fort Lauderdale
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s ifferent Item Over 12,0050WDilton Drive 220 7 954-564-298
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Beautiful Men, Intense Emotion
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ISTANBUL – PART I
TRAVEL
BY ROBERT ELIAS DEATON
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or the past two weeks, the demonstrations in Istanbul’s Taksim Square, one of the world’s largest public expanses, have attracted worldwide attention. The event started as a small sit-in to protest the proposed building of a shopping mall on Gezi Park, the tiny green space in what is otherwise a concrete jungle. It is not only a critical situation for the country’s government, the increasing scale of the protests will likely damage the tourist trade, which annually attracts 11 million to the cultural paradise and translates into $12 billion in travel revenue. Travelling to Istanbul has always been one of our most favorite destinations, making the recent turn of events all the more unsettling since avoiding Taksim Square as a tourist is difficult. It is the hub of the city’s public transportation, being the transfer point for most bus routes, and the terminus of the Hacıosman-4. Levent-Taksim-Yenikapı Subway Line of the Istanbul Metro. It is also the starting point for the historic Istiklal Avenue Tram, which takes visitors and locals alike along the most famous shopping street in all of Istanbul. To miss this street is to miss a gem. It not only contains some of the finest examples of Ottoman Empire buildings
There are many not-to-be-missed sites that are far from the demonstrations, giving you exciting options to explore.
still in existence, it contains the majority of the cities most elegant boutiques, cafes, nightclubs, patisseries, chocolateries, art galleries and bookstores. Considering that during the 16th and 17th centuries, the Ottoman Empire was one of the most powerful in the world, a visit here is a must. And while the protests of Taksim Square have not impacted business along Istiklal Avenue, getting to the location with public transportation makes avoiding the Square impossible. It is also the location of some of the area’s finest hotels—the Ritz Carlton Istanbul (Askerocagi Caddesi, No. 6), the Intercontinental Ceylan Hotel (Asker Ocagi Caddesi No. 1) and the Marmara Taksim (Gümüşsuyu Mh., Sıraselviler Cd No. 7). Even so, we highly recommend a visit to this exciting city that brings Asia
and Europe together along the banks of the beautiful Bosphorus Strait. There are many not-to-be-missed sites that are far from the demonstrations, giving you exciting options to explore. Chief among them is Topkapi Palace located in Sultanahmet, in the most historic area of Istanbul. The Topkapi Palace is really a huge compound that surrounds four main courtyards, with literally thousands of rooms. While only a few of these are open to the public, those that are will give visitors (and there are thousands who find their way there) a rare view of life during the reign of Sultan Mehmed II, the conqueror of Byzantine Constantinople. Among the artifacts visible here are Muhammed’s cloak and sword. Two of our favorite sites at the Palace are the Imperial Throne Room with its
secret passageway and adjacent to the Queen Mother’s apartments (all the better to keep an eye on her son), and the Imperial Carriage collection, which is housed in the vicinity of a former stable. To protect the delicate gilding, tiles and paints, photography is not allowed. Not far from Topkapi Palace is the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Meydani 7), so named for the blue tiles adorning the walls of the interior. Officially known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, this site was visited in 2006 by then-Pope Benedict XVI. It a wonderful and inspiring active mosque where the appropriate reverence is expected. So too is a tip in the collection box. We’ll continue our tour of Istanbul next week for it is truly an exciting international destination where world culture is on display.
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NUTRITION
STEER YOUR SHOPPING CART IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION
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BY ANDY KRESS
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hen it comes to food shopping, most Americans give little thought to buying the right ingredients for good health. Our current obesity epidemic is proof positive of that fact. We Americans need to stop meandering through the aisles, and start looking for healthier choices— easy enough to do since most of these choices are all in the same aisle! Head first to the produce aisle. There you’ll find the variety of the raw foods that you should be eating, including as many fruits and vegetables as you enjoy. Pay particular attention to avocados, garlic, asparagus, walnuts, sweet potatoes, blueberries, pomegranates, kale, mint, basil and thyme. All of these foods and spices not only bring flavor and variety to the dinner table, but they are all superfoods that truly nourish the body. Some quick facts about those superfoods: Avocados, once reviled for being high in fat, redeem themselves for being rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. Garlic is comprised of sulfur compounds, which is a great natural way to ward away heart attacks and strokes. Asparagus, a natural diuretic, is high in B12 and potassium. Walnuts, ounce for ounce, have twice as many antioxidants as any other nut. Sweet Potatoes are a great way to regulate blood pressure and protect your immune system, especially with all of the B6 they contain. Blueberries are ranked as one of the top disease fighting foods, due to all of the antioxidants they possess. Pomegranates are great for your cardiovascular health. They are comprised of many antioxidants your body craves. Kale is rich in vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting. Mint is a great way to boost your immune system, as well as aid in digestion. Basil has been used in Chinese medicines for thousands of years and is also another great digestion aid. Thyme is long known for its ability to fight bacteria, and has recently been used to treat cases of acne. A few drinks that are some must stops are coffee and green tea.
Coffee is more than just a stimulant. It helps jolt your system full of antioxidants that fight heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Green Tea contains an antioxidant called catechins, which helps guard against cell damage. And don’t forget the dairy. Yogurt is known for aiding in the restoration of friendly bacteria in the digestive tract. And when it comes to greasing the pan, use a virgin or extra virgin olive oil. Olive Oil is known to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Also remember to stop by the seafood case and grab yourself some wild caught salmon. Salmon is chocked-full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for fighting inflammation throughout the entire body. There are a few foods that you should be steering clear of: rice cakes, fatfree salad dressings, shark, sweetened beverages, grits and processed snack foods. Rice cakes have high glycemic index ratings, as high as 91% (pure glucose is 100%). Fat-free salad dressings can be loaded with sugar and high fructose corn syrup combating its fat-free qualities. Shark is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, but contains almost three times the mercury of most other fish. Sweetened beverages are loaded full of empty calories, plus all the sugar can be a precursor to achieving diabetes. Grits are small left over pieces of corn processing, and nutritionally speaking, lack a variety of vitamins and minerals. Processed snack foods are loaded with saturated and trans fats. These types of fats clog your arteries and promote heart disease. Know your foods and trim your waistlines. Andy Kress is a certified fitness trainer and nutritional counselor. He can be reached at 954-789-3930.
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BY CHEF JEAN DOHERTY
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THE OMELETTE
T
RECIPE
with salt and white pepper. Then, grab your whisk and whisk like mad. You’re going to work up a sweat here!! If you’re not up for that, you can use an electric beater. Whatever device you use, you’re trying to beat as much air as possible into the eggs. 4. W hen the butter or oil in the pan is hot enough, pour in the eggs. Don’t stir! Let the eggs cook for up to a minute or until the bottom starts to set. 5. With a heat-resistant rubber spatula, gently push one edge of the egg into the center of the pan, while tilting the pan to allow the still liquid egg to flow in underneath. Repeat with the other edges, until there’s no liquid left. 6. Y our eggs should now be a bright yellow pancake, which should easily slide around on the nonstick surface. If it sticks at all, loosen it with your spatula. 7. If you’re adding any other ingredients, now’s the • 2 Tbsp. whole milk time to do it. Spoon your filling over one side of • 2 Tbsp clarified butter or whole butter (or olive oil) the omelette. Now gently flip the egg pancake • Salt and ground white pepper, to taste half over, using your spatula. Cook for another few seconds, or until there is no uncooked egg 1. C rack the eggs into a mixing bowl and beat left. I like mine a little runny in the middle, so, as them until they turn a pale yellow color. I always say “you are the chef.” 2. Heat a heavy-bottomed nonstick sauté pan over There’s no limit to the number of fillings you can medium-low heat. Add the butter and let it melt. use with this basic omelette recipe. 3. Add the milk to the eggs and season to taste he omelette is thought to have originated in the ancient Near-East. Beaten eggs were mixed with chopped herbs, fried until firm, then sliced into wedges. This dish is thought to have travelled to Western Europe via the Middle East and North Africa, with each country adapting the original recipe to produce Italian frittata, Spanish tortilla and the French omelette. As the story goes, when Napoleon and his army were traveling through Southern France, they decided to rest for the night near the town of Bessières. Napoleon feasted on an omelette prepared by a local innkeeper that was such a culinary delight that he ordered the townspeople to gather all the eggs in the village and to prepare a huge omelette for his army the next day. You should always use a nonstick frying pan for best results. Use 2 to 3 eggs per person. • 2 eggs
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THEATER QUEEN
Q & A
An Interview with Amanda Palmer BY GREGG SHAPIRO
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ersatile and prolific perfor-mer Amanda Palmer made history by raising a ton of money with a Kickstarter campaign that financed her latest project, “Theater Is Evil” (8 ft.) by Amanda Palmer & The Grand Theft Orchestra. Solo, leading the Grand Theft Orchestra, as one half of The Dresden Dolls, or even as Evelyn Evelyn, Palmer is never anything short of riveting.
But it really feels like she has found her most consistently rewarding voice with this project. In spite (or maybe because) of the album’s title, Palmer maintains her theatrical edge on “Want It Back,” “Do It With a Rockstar,” “Trout Heart Replica” and “Berlin.” Heck, there’s even “A Grand Theft Intermission” at the center of the disc to keep with the theater theme. Underneath it all, Palmer’s still a modern rocker and songs such as “Massachusetts Avenue,” “The Killing Type,” “Lost” and “Olly Olly Oxen Free” allow her to be one. Palmer, who has a way of commanding your attention the moment she walks out on stage (watch her recent TED talk as proof: www.ted.com/talks/amanda_palmer_the_art_of_asking. html), is mesmerizing. I spoke with Amanda about her accomplishments, her LGBT fanbase and how Margaret Cho inspired her.
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Gregg Shapiro: Amanda, as someone who has put in time in the duos The Dresden Dolls and Evelyn Evelyn, released a solo disc on which you perform with an array of guest artists and currently is the front-person in Amanda Palmer & the Grand Theft Orchestra, would it be fair to say that you play well with others? Amanda Palmer: Yes. I am a social creature [laughs]. I really do love creating with other people. As a songwriter, I’ve grown and learned a lot from my work with other people. It’s always more difficult to collaborate than to lock yourself up in a room. But I believe it’s my path as an artist to grow and change and learn what I can learn from collaborating. In the case of this last record, it wasn’t even a matter of sitting myself down and saying, “Okay I want to collaborate with a bunch of dudes.” I wrote these songs and these songs necessitated a band. That’s an interesting place to get to as an artist where you start taking dictation from your own art. As I was writing these songs, I knew I’m going to need a drummer. I’m going to need a bassist and someone who plays synthesizer. That’s what the songs were asking, for me to go out and hunt down the personnel. I hope I find some good people, and I did. I was blessed, my band was fantastic.
Do you think your extensive background in theater is what makes you such a good collaborator? Yes. Theater was what I was originally drawn to in high school and so forth, because I’m passionate about the group experience. I was definitely an introverted teenager, but in my introverted spells I fantasized about parties [laughs]. I fantasized about the ultimate circus, about putting on my own street fair down the road and nightclubs in the kind of spaces where everybody would get together and be together. I still hold that paradox within me. I’m known to never want to be alone in the house. I would much rather take my computer to a noisy café and be alone among a huge cacophony of people. It’s where I feel the most comfortable. I like to be constantly reminded that everybody is together and connected. I think that’s part of how I popped out, part of the way I grew up. I really crave that. I was a very lonely kid. We find these antidotes as we trundle along to fit what we need. The art, I think, winds up manifesting what were hoping to find. I look at it more and more that way. The art is a kind of means to an end. The end is whatever connection we’re craving.
In spite of its title, your new album “Theater Is Evil” definitely has a theatrical flair. Because of your theater background do you feel like being a musician provides enough of an outlet for your inner thespian or do you think that there might be a Broadway musical—starring you, written by you or both—in your future? I’ve done a lot of theater projects. I starred in “Cabaret” with a giant theater a couple of years ago. I’ve written and helped produce original pieces of theater over my adult career. I really love it. I can’t stay away from the theater. It feels like home to me. Broadway does not feel like home. Probably feels like a different kind of game. I don’t know if it would necessarily be the venue for the kinds of people that I want to connect with [laughs]. But look at “The Book of Mormon” and the broad audience to which it appeals. In defense of Broadway, it has produced some incredible, really beautiful original work and a lot of really terrible stuff. But then again, name a format…turn on the radio, turn on the TV, you get a little bit of everything. I just went to the Broadway opening of Tim Minchin’s new musical “Matilda.” I f****** loved it! I was also
I think people connect with my music and my work for all kinds of reasons. One of the things I get thanked for often, particularly by my LGBT fans, is that they feel like my voice and my willingness to tell the truth, whether it’s on my blog or my songs, empowers them and makes them feel a little safer about speaking with their own authentic voices. I know I needed that really badly as a teenager, confused about everything from sexuality and sex and femininity and power, the whole complication of being a human being. I desperately needed to hear voices speaking the truth to inspire me to do the same. And they did. The majority of people that I looked to were musicians. The big, brave, outspoken men and women in my life who I listened to and looked to gave me cosmic permission to not be so afraid myself. It still happens to this day. I read Margaret Cho’s Twitter feed or her writing for salon. com and I find myself thinking, “F***, if Margaret can be that brave and say that, I need to say more.” She inspires me to be more authentic with people.
The day it happened I was sitting in a café in Cambridge. Everybody in the café felt the shock of all the news and let their guard down and started talking to each other. I spent the next six or seven hours ditching everything else I had to do that day, just talking to my Twitter feed [laughs]. Sharing news, sharing updates, sharing words of comfort. Freaking out together, reminding each other that we were all there and what was important, culminating in something I’ve never done before, but that I felt really inspired to do. At nine o’clock, I was still talking to thousands of people online, and everyone I knew, especially those nearby, were having a really rough time with it, we held a moment of silence via Twitter [laughs]. It sounds silly, but whatever tools you’ve got, you use them. Just before nine o’clock, I had seen and shared the horrific picture – that I warned everyone not to look at unless you wanted to be haunted for the rest of your life – of someone who had had their legs blown off. I was like, “what the f*** can you do?” We’re all just sitting here. I wish desperately that I could call on everyone and just meet at Boston Common, but the police are telling us stay in our houses, telling us not to gather. So how can we feel not alone. That’s what we did – the moment of silence – and it was beautiful.
I graduated from Emerson College in Boston and the city has remained near and dear to my heart.
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I know it did because my husband [Neil Gaiman] gave me the idea for the song [laughs]. He said something that sparked the inspiration for the song. I owe him that one. I helped him with his last book, so we’re kind of even. We inspire each other and it’s a beautiful relationship. I treasure that man and what he does, what he believes in.
As someone for whom Boston also has special meaning, as you sing in the song “Massachusetts Avenue,” how have you been dealing with the recent tragic events that took place in the city?
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“The Bed Song” (from “Theater Is Evil”) is one of the most beautiful and emotionally stirring songs I’ve ever heard. Do you think that being part of a couple had an influence on the composition of a song such as this?
In 2007, the Dresden Dolls performed as part of Cyndi Lauper’s True Colors tour and in June 2013, you were a headliner at Milwaukee Pridefest. What do your LGBT fans mean to you?
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so proud to see that Tim and his collaborators had managed to put something on Broadway that is not coloring in the usual lines. They were doing something stylized but not cheesy. They weren’t hitting all the usual color by numbers Broadway spots. I was not only proud to be in the audience, but proud of the audience for sharing the enthusiasm about these people taking some risks on stage. I wanted to hug everybody [laughs]. You just see so much standard, off-the-shelf, forgettable un-risky theatrical material as far as I’m concerned. It’s such a beautiful medium and we need art so badly. It’s painful to see it wasted on a $50 million production that’s closing the next day [laughs].
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TEXAS HOLD’EM BBQ
DINING
The Secret Is in the Sauce BY RICHARD DAVID CHAMBERLAIN
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here certainly no shortage of great barbecue joints in South Florida in general, or Fort Lauderdale in particular. The familiar waft of smoky essence is as addicting as any drug when you pass by it on the highway-big kettle smokers filling the air with the telltale aroma that great barbecue is being prepared not far away. Call us crazy, but that aroma is half the fun for us—a smoked goodness that is so thick it sticks to your clothes hours after leaving the restaurant. Unfortunately, Texas Hold’Em BBQ loses points on the aroma front. Enter the small A-frame building on North Federal Highway and you’d be hard-pressed to know that you’re even in a barbecue joint. There’s no smell of slow-roasted pork or beef brisket; not even a hint that there’s a barbecue involved at all. But there is. Place an order for the Baby Back Ribs Dinner ($14.95) and prepare to enjoy a delicious four-bone rack of pork ribs cooked to near perfection with dropfrom-the-bone meat. Unlike some barbecue restaurants that rely on rubbed-in spices for flavor, Texas Hold’Em makes optimal use of their own special sauce— an exceptional blend of tangy apple vinegar and roasted tomato that is smackyour-lips good. It’s the same sauce that you’ll find gracing the Pulled-Pork Dinner ($14.95)—succulent, moist and flavorful. All dinners at Texas Hold’Em come with two side dishes. Select from your choice of Mac & Cheese, French Fries, Corn on the Cob, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, Potato Salad or Collard Greens. For the true diehards among us, there’s also fresh Cornbread, Fried Okra, Sweet Potato Fries and Hush Puppies. Pick two from the bunch and expect to have enough leftovers for a doggy bag between you. The sign out front boldly advertises “BBQ on the Beach,” despite the fact that
the restaurant is on Federal Highway and a good two miles from the nearest sand. Chalk it up to poetic license, since Texas Hold’Em is on a canal that does make for beautiful waterfront al fresco dining. Or, at least, it would if the outside area had any seating. In this case, there’s none—but word coming from behind the bar is that new seating for the outside has been ordered and will be coming sometime. In the meantime, you’ll need to be satisfied inside with the basic essentials of cookhouse utensils and a thick roll of paper towels at each table. Expect that each meal will surely need quite a few to wipe away the splatters of sauce that seem to leak everywhere. Case in point: The All In Sandwich ($7.25), a monster of an event that assigns two thick slices of white bread to encase a mound of pulled pork, cole slaw and sweet potato fries, topped with Texas Hold’Em barbeque sauce which comes served in its own side cup. There is no easy way to eat this sandwich other than to dive in and attempt one sloppy way or another. It’s a heavy affair, meant to satisfy—and it does. Only slightly easier to eat: The Grilled Stuff Bell Peppers Bluff ($6.75). This dish features either pulled pork or beef stuffed within a grilled bell pepper cut in half and topped with a mound of blue cheese crumbles. It’s a civilized way to explore the traditional barbecue flavors served here, since technically you can use a knife and fork, and fewer paper towels for cleanup. At the end of the day, however, while the taste lingers, the missing barbecue aroma leaves us wanting more.
TEXAS HOLD’EM BBQ 2528 N FEDERAL HWY, FORT LAUDERDALE FL 33334 954-527-4115
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MARKETPLACE CAREGIVER SERVICES
LICENSED MASSAGE
POLISH BOY CAREGIVER Available to work for livein 24/7, or come and go full time or part time. I have 10yrs. experience in the elderly care field. As an aide/ companionship. My duties include Bathing/Showering, Companionship,Doctor’s Appointments, Dressing, Grooming, Grocery Shopping/Errands, Laundry/Change of Bed Linens, Light Housekeeping, Medication Reminders, Meal Preparation/Cooking, Toileting/Incontinent Care. Speak fluent English and Polish. I have a car fully insured and a clean driving record. To learn more about me and my qualifications, feel free to contact me at your convenience. Looking forward to hearing from you. Julian (954) 440-5775
RECESSION RELIEF- $40 per 90 Mins-Out Calls Higher. Swedish & Deep-Tissue. Specialty is Back, Lower Body, and Feet. Couples Discount. Seniors Welcome. 16 Years Experience. Delray Beach. MA 18563 Dennis (561) 502-2628
CLEANING SERVICES
ELITE RELOCATION MOVING & STORAGE We’ve provided quality moves for over 30 years. It’s always a smooth move when you choose Elite Relocation. Contact us today: 954.975.8660 www.elitemoving.com RED BOX MOVING -- owner in truck on every move. Call norbert directly. Affordable, reliable, careful. Mv#567/insured. (954)305-9176 or (561)506-5540-www. redboxmoving.com
CLEAN IT RITE! THE BEST CLEANING SERVICE FOR YOUR BUCK! 1BR-$55, 2BR-$65, 3BR-$75. 10 years in business. Serving BROWARD, South Palm Beach, and North Miami. Excellent rates and references! Call Manny, (954) 560-4443 EMERALD IS BACK! we speak English. Hand scrub your floors-cleaning products included!Guarantee all service! Serving the community for 30 yrs! $55.00 3 hrs. $20.00 additional hrs. You’ll do the Irish jig! 954-524-3161 www. emeraldirishcleaning.com
PAINTING
COMPUTER SERVICES
GOT ANTS? Aloha bugs inc. Full service pest control. Ant Specialist, White Fly, Lawn Spraying. Serving your Community for over 20 Years. (954) 920-BUGS (2847)
OPTIMA COMPUTER REPAIR-IN-HOME SERVICE Proudly serving our community for over 12 years. Get the BEST performance, protection & value from your computer investment. A+ Hardware & OS certified. Friendly, professional, RELIABLE service. Reasonable rates. Call: Mike (954) 817-3883
EMPLOYMENT 5 POINTS MASSAGE, Your Relaxation Oasis in Wilton Manors is looking for 2-3 exceptionally talented Licensed Massage Therapists to work as contract workers, part time on an appointment by appointment basis. Thai massage, Reflexology, and other specialty techniques especially considered. Men and women considered. Must be licensed in the State of Florida and carry state-required personal liability insurance. Studio opens in early June. Call Tom Marten at 954295-7041 or e-mail at tom@5pointsmassage.com for further info. Be part of Wilton Manors premiere massage studio.
FOR HIRE HOUSE-SITTER AVAILABLE Former New York City butler and private Palm Beach chef available now to house-sit long/short term. For extra secuity, I am teamed with a retired State Police K-9. Prior and local refrences available. Please call Kevin at 954-804-0862 or e-mail kphyman@msn.com for an interview. Thank you. DO YOU HAVE AN INTEREST IN GRAPHIC DESIGN? We are looking interns or anyone willing to learn any aspect of putting together a publication. You may be a recent grad, still a student in school, or maybe you just want to get some experience as a photo-journalist. Let us know what your interest is. Email: georgedauphin@mmplgbt.com
FURNISHED HOUSING PERFECT RELOCATION RENTALS FROM $325/WEEK &
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MOVING
$1200/MONTH Gay Owned & Operated Apartment Hotel. Beautiful Studio,1 & 2 BR Apts. With Full Kitchens. Turn-key, fully furnished & equipped, clothing optional pool, laundry, parking. Central to Wilton Manors & Haulover Beach. Incl. Wi-Fi, utilities, cable, tel. Pets Welcome. Call Joe or Jack at: (954) 927-0090 or visit www.LibertySuites.com
LAWN MAINTENANCE MCCRATER LAWN SERVICE, INC. Your Personal, Professional Lawn Care Company. Lawn and Bed MaintenanceHedge Trimming-Weed Control-Seasonal Planting- Party Preparation and much more! Serving East Broward, Ft. Lauderdale to Lighthouse Point. Call Tom at 954-567-2121
LEENYX PROFESSIONAL HOME IMPROVEMENT We offer Baseboard & Crown Molding, Interior & Exterior Painting, Popcorn & Wallpaper Removal, Pressure Washing, Electrical & Plumbing, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Wood Flooring. Please contact Tizpo, 954696-6840 or AJ, 954-588-2532
PEST CONTROL
PET SITTING PawPal Dog Walking, Pet Sitting. Serving Wilton Manors, Fort Lauderdale, & Oakland Park. Robb Gardner, (469) 2606969 email: petwalker11@hotmail.com www.pawpal.co
RENT / LEASE HOLLYWOOD HILLS-EXCLUSIVE AREA 1BR/1BA, with private entrance. Living room, kitchenette, fully furnished, new carpet. Rent is $775, reduced from $1200 is willing to do some work around house. (954) 549-8243 FT. LAUDERDALE 1414 NE 5TH TER. LARGE 2BR/1BA Open gourmet kitchen w/ smooth-top stove, D/W, crisp white cabinets. Tile floors, Cen Air, Designer Bath, onsite laundry, $1,250/mo. F/S. Owner/Licensee (954) 448-9811
ROOMMATES FT.LAUDERDALE-CLOSE TO WILTON MANORS Medium-sized, unfurnished room with closet, available immediately! Seeking roommate to share 3BR/2BA, in private home with 2 gay males. Prefer clean, neat and quiet individual. MUST be employed and have references. Use of house, including W/D and internet. Lite cooking. Please call Jim for more details. (954) 303-5355 $550/Mo. Plus a small deposit. NO Pets. All Firm. Smoking only outside.
SPIRITUALITY SPIRITUAL ADVISOR WITH JONATHAN Tells you your past, present, and your destiny to come. Will reunite you with your loved-ones, friends, and family. Will put you in a path of happiness. For further information and appointment, (954) 549-8243 THE PARISH OF STS. FRANCIS & CLARE 101 NE 3RD STREET - STAFFED BY FRANCISCAN FRIARS - just N of Broward Blvd. and E of Andrews Ave. Mass Times: Sat @ 5 PM; Sun @ 10:30 AM; Wed @ 7 PM. Where we welcome and appreciate diversity - a progressive community in the Catholic tradition. 954-731-8173; www. stsfrancisandclare.org
TREE SERVICES TREES WITH LEAVES, INC.-Your Personal, Professional Tree Service. SPRING TREE MAINTENANCE-PRUNING, PLANTING, ETC. Tree pruning-Palm Trimming-tree removal, and Fertilization. Stump-Grinding-Storm Preparation & Clean-up. Serving East Broward, Ft. Lauderdale to Boca Raton FREE ESTIMATES! Call George at 954-444-7710 Insured. Lic. CCB-206
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Health Insurance Will Be Mandatory In 2014
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We're Hands-on Men Simply, the best massage. Period. 954.630.1444 2153 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors www.78DegreesSpa.com
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As low as 3-4 dollars a day for full health coverage, with prescription, vision and 0 dollar co-pay dental.
Government giving subsidies for health insurance now!
Life insurance that accumulates tax differed interest / Annuities, 401k, IRA and Retirement Plans
Homeowner insurance quotes available upon request
Hormone and testosterone therapy covered on some health plans with a $15 co-pay for prescriptions
Dog/Cat insurance plans also available
Zero co-pay for physical, lab, EKG, colon/prostate screening If you are turning 65 within the next 3 months or on disability you may be eligible for a zero premium medicare advantage plan.
Call, Email or Text me for a free quote, no obligation what so ever!
Alexander H. Vorgias Zander One Insurance Corp. www.southflhealthexchange.com Direct 954-529-5564 wilton.health.exchange@gmail.com
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