OMG 1
OMG 2
OMG 3
OMG 4
OMG 5
Dear OMG! Readers, Tampa. Orlando. Miami. Fort Lauderdale. Key West. Las Vegas. ATLANTA! Marketing genius Chris Coleman of Atlanta graces the cover of this issue representing OMG! Magazine’s invasion into the state of Georgia. Our very own Gary Randall from New York City recently flew down to Atlanta to interview and shoot Chris for our Atlanta issue. Check out the feature on page 10. I hope everyone is enjoying the hot days of summer! Love,
Okie Okesene Tilo,
Executive Editor
Okie with friends out and around Tampa, Florida.
OMG 6
Big Brother 12 In its 12th season, the Big Brother series is experiencing a rebirth at the water cooler with house villainess Rachel (pictured), masturbation showers, brigade alliances and catfights galore.
NeNe’s New Nose Gasps were heard around the country when photos surfaced of NeNe Leakes (audience favorite cast member of The Real Housewives of Atlanta) and her new nose job that has left the housewife virtually unrecognizable.
“XXXO” by M.I.A. After a poorly received start, M.I.A. releases the title-single from her new album that is burning up dance floors around the nation.
The return of Ryan Prado It’s been confirmed that one of the most talented photographers in Florida will be returning with new work this fall. Check out www.ryanprado.com to view his genius creativity.
Black Swan Trailer Film director & screenwriter Darren Aronofsky’s resume includes Pi, Requiem for a Dream, The Fountain and The Boxer… this fall’s Black Swan trailer with Natalie Portman looks to maintain his clout as the most creative director in Hollywood.
OMG 8
Katy Perry’s “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)” One of the real standout tracks on Katy Perry’s Teenage Dream album is this catchy ode to those wild Friday nights that we all say we’d want to forget but in reality cannot wait to do again.
Color Splash: Miami HGTV brings the addictive Color Splash hit series to Miami where designer David Bromstad ups the ante of his signature modern, colorful and playful style.
OMG 9
Project Q Atlanta
Q A
GARY KING OF ATLANTA:
CHRIS COLEMAN written by GARY RANDALL
You are different from other party promoters. Why? I think my business sense adds a lot of gusto to my company. Most people don't know really how much goes into a large event. The accounting alone is 10-20 hours of work a week! The idea of throwing parties, but never partying at them is ironic. Why? I don't do well when I party at my own event. I have to keep my wits and make sure everyone is doing their job! Drugs have a huge role in the party world. Why? Drugs (be it alcohol or "party drugs") have been around and will continue to be around in the nightlife scene. It's a mistake to think otherwise. All I can ask is for people to be careful and party responsibly. Some party promoters are attention hungry "popularity" seekers. Why? The promoters that seek the attention have short lives in the nightlife scene. They come and go and come and go. OMG 10
I've been in Atlanta for 20 years and I've seen more than 20 "promoters" give it a whirl. They fail every time because they are in it for the wrong reason. If you profile the successful events' promoters/producers, they all have a business mind and a business ethic. The ride up is great, keeping and sustaining your momentum takes a lot of work. The strangest deal you've ever done. And Why? I had a contract that demanded a dry rag and a wet rag in the DJ Booth. The reason: So the DJ could use the rest room in the Booth and clean up afterwards... True story. I absolutely LOVE this particular DJ to death! Big kiss! You are involved in a two year relationship, but your line of work seems contrary to that. Why? Being my partner takes a very unique and mature person. My partner needs to understand that I have a crazy schedule, talk on the phone 8,000 minutes a month and send and receive over 10,000 texts a month. I am a man of my word and once that is realized, I'm home free. It just takes a unique person to look past my job and see me. I am very lucky I found him. The most painful thing you have ever been through. And Why? My Mother's death is the most painful event in my life.
She passed away in 2003 and it took me four years to even remember the day she died. I completely blocked it out and acted like it never happened. It was a very scary time in my life. The word "rosebud" was citizen kanes last word. It refers to his lost childhood memories. What is your "rosebud"? and Why? My "rosebud" is my adolescent relationship with my Dad. I truly admire my Dad and think he's a gifted and intelligent man. I only wish he had the drive to be the Dad I think I would be in the early years. Our relationship is fantastic now, but when I think of myself as a kid, I don't remember anything about my Dad. My childhood would have been absolutely perfect if he could have been there a little more. Your best quality and your worst. And Why? My best quality is a part of me that only my closest friends, family and partner know. I am not going to reveal my best quality. It's for a select few... My worst quality is that I am a Virgo through and through. Perfectionist, detailed to the finest point and anal retentive. It sucks!
Project Q Atlanta
Describe your most unsuccessful event. And Why? Success as described by Webster is: favorable or desired outcome. I've only had one event, out of over 300, that I would actually label as "unsuccessful". Even if an event or two don't have the desired amount of people, I usually learn something about that particular event. So, in essence, that particular event was "successful". Learning is a favorable or desire that I would like to achieve. Describe the event that got you into the party planning business. And Why? The very first event I threw was Thanksgiving Eve at Club 1150. The Club is now called OPERA and is one of the most successful night clubs in the South East. I met up with my good friend, Manny Lehman, in NYC the summer of 2003. We had lunch and I asked if he would spin at my first event in Atlanta. Luckily, he said "yes" and so it began. I've hosted the Thanksgiving Eve Event every year since the initial event in 2003. In 2011, I am planning producing/promoting approximately 170 events. Including assisting Mark Baker in Orlando. I hope to see more CCE (Chris Coleman Events) supporters in 2011!
Project Q Atlanta
Project Q Atlanta
CONTINUE ON PAGE 15>
OMG 11
OMG 12
OMG 13
OMG 14
OMG 15
OMG 16
OMG 17
OMG 18
OMG 19
FABI/Getty
Scott Gries/Getty
A
merican Idol has overcome its share of obstacles over the past couple years. Paula Abdul parted ways with the show. The departure of Simon Cowell was another nail in the coffin. Ellen DeGeneres’ stint as a judge was unobtrusive but bland. The ratings spoke for themselves. Thankfully, there seemed to be good news on the Idol horizon. Just as the show seemed destined for mediocrity, rumors have been swirling for some time now that next season’s judge will be the one and only Jennifer “The Total Package” Lopez. J-Lo really is “The Total Package”. She can do it all. Sing. Dance. Act. Look hot. My friend’s uncle coined the nickname and it’s always stuck. Fingers crossed that Miss Lopez will be able to add “American Idol judge” to her illustrious resume. Jennifer Lopez is already known as a fashion icon. Remember that time in 2000 when she flew to Key West and raped someone’s couch? The resulting dress was the talk of the 2000 Grammy Awards ceremony. Lopez gained the nation’s respect that night for barely showing any cleavage. Certainly Miss J-Lo’s modest sense of fashion will be valuable when giving advice to America’s up and coming talent. Jennifer Lopez is as proficient on the silver screen as she is on the red carpet.
OMG 20
Getty Images
In 2003, Jennifer Lopez beat out Meryl Streep for the female lead in the blockbuster smash Gigli. American Idol contestants will certainly be counting their blessings for the opportunity to get advice from a seasoned and disciplined thespian. Most importantly, Jennifer Lopez has maintained the respect of the music industry for nearly ten years. Last year’s single “Louboutins” proved to be one of the most well-timed releases of 2009. In the midst of the nation’s most severe financial crisis in decades, Lopez released a new single boasting about her five hundred dollar shoes. Perhaps fans didn’t buy the single because Lopez inspired them to save up for a pair of their own? Lopez is currently gearing up for the release of her seventh full-length album entitled Love?. In a recent interview, J-Lo was quoted as saying "Love is the most confusing thing in the world, that's why the album is called Love? with a question mark." In this age when everything is ironic, perhaps an even more apropos and edgy title could be Talent?. Style icon. Artist. Singer. Actress. American Idol Judge. Is there anything Jennifer “The Total Package" Lopez can’t do? Before you know it, she may even learn how to be interesting.
OMG 21
OMG 22
OMG 23
OMG 24
OMG 25
Getty Images
“You’re going to get a present from me so you’ll always remember our agreement,” coos Lisbeth, having just sodomized her legal guardian with an anal plug sans lubrication. She continues, tattooing descriptive expletives across the man’s chest as retribution for brutally raping her the week before. If anything, she’s determined. The crime thriller follows Mikael Blomkvist, a financial journalist whose professional life is in ruins after finding himself convicted for libel. Prospects are bleak until an offer is presented to him that he can’t refuse. With computer hacker Lisbeth’s help, the two set out to unravel the 40-year-old mysterious disappearance of Harriet Vanger.
OMG 26
What they discover will leave you breathless. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Volume One of the “Millennium” trilogy, was an instant hit for the publishing industry. Globally, it has sold over 23 million copies. Its success is somewhat bittersweet. Larsson, the author, died of a heart attack in November 2004 just prior to the book’s debut. Larsson, a social advocate for women, wrote the book as penance. According to longtime friend, Kurdo Baksi, Larsson witnessed a gang rape as a teenager and never intervened. Later, he sought forgiveness from the victim, but she refused. Her name was Lisbeth. With the literary world on fire over The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, you can be sure that Hollywood is chomping at the bit for a film adaptation. Sony Pictures has acquired the American movie rights and plans to release the first film of the series as early as December 2011. David Fincher (Fight Club, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button) will direct. James Bond actor Daniel Craig has been cast as Blomkvist, and the former Mrs. Sean Penn, Robin Wright, is in talks for the role of Erika Berger.
The real question has always been who will play the crucial role of Lisbeth? Natalie Portman seemed to be the front runner for the role. Online rumblings had none other than Kristen Stewart (Twilight) in talks for the role. However at press time, it was revealed that unknown actress Rooney Mara (A Nightmare on Elm Street) had nabbed the coveted role. With summer quickly winding down, you still have time to experience the perfect beach read. Find out what all the hype is about. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo does not disappoint. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is available at all major book retailers.
(c) 2009 Vintage Crime/Black Lizard
N
ot since Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code has there been so much hype surrounding a novel. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, written by Swedish author Stieg Larsson, has easily made reading cool again. From homos to housewives, it seems everyone wants a piece of Lisbeth Salander– the book’s heavily pierced, bisexual, foul-mouthed, leather clad heroine. And for good reason.
OMG 27
OMG 28
OMG 29
Christopher Ward: how one 5th Avenue Restaurant Manager manages to stylishly let loose on the weekends, while maintaining professional looks during the week.
As with most edgy Brooklyn-ers, tattoos are the first noticeable piece of fashion on Chris. With a collection of several different elaborate designs, most notable tattoos are the words ‘fight’ and ‘strive’ positioned on each forearm signifying remembrance of his mother’s fight with cancer.
With most of his family in the United Kingdom, Chris likes to incorporate British fashion into his wardrobe. Prevalent are his skinny-cut suit coats and pants. Topman has the best cut for a slender body. He likes to flip the suit coat collar up to add a more noticeable British flair.
While working, Chris likes to incorporate edgy high-end designer ties and hanker chiefs into his suits. He enjoys accessories by Dior, McQueen and Emilio Pucci. These touches keep you professional yet allow some standing out in the ever boring world of Corporate America style.
OMG 30
Chris generally totes his belongings around the city in a black bag. Black is the most prevalent color throughout all of his clothing. He likes to carry around an edgy briefcase-like bag (Diesel) or a simple black messenger (Tumi).
A TRUE shoe queen at heart, you can find a wide array of black boots in his closet. At work, Chris likes to rock a popular upcoming fall trend: the wing-tip boot. This hot new take on the classic dress shoe brings additional style to work-wear.
Clearly an early-adopter of new show trends, Chris also loves to lounge around in Toms shoes (toms.com) - these comfortable , philanthropic (Toms donates a pair to the needy for every pair sold) loafer-like shoes are popping up everywhere.
While out with friends, Chris is normally wearing the classic black T. This adds to his James Dean-like edge. Lately, Chris has been taking vintage elecotro-clash tshirts and creatively ripping them to add his own style to it. This is the main stylepoint most notable within Mr. Ward's wardrobe - personal touches.
OMG 31
OMG 32
OMG 33
OMG 34
OMG 35
T
he other day, we headed out from Ft. Myers, Florida to the NOM counter protest with Stand Up Florida. Brian Brown and NOM's Motor Home of bigotry and scare tactics were rolling into town and we wanted to be there to meet them. New Line Christian Church had opened its hearts and doors to Brown and NOM, so this could be the place where all voices would be heard. In politics, you see, it is about numbers. If you do not stand up to be counted, politicians don't think it is important to you. They don't see the potential votes. In some respects yet despite so many friends, I was feeling alone. As we rolled up to the New Line Christian Church, there were people on both sides of the street. My initial thought was to be certain that I was going to the correct side rather than run with my rainbow flag into the crowd that would reject me and my family. I saw signs from The 1st Unitarian Church of Orlando that read: "We stand on the side of love." It took my breath away at that moment. I saw that they had come to support equality. Equality was on BOTH SIDES OF THE STREET! In my lifetime, I have been turned away from so many churches. The sheer rejection is incredible: I have to be a certain way in order to hear the word, to be ministered to or to be welcomed with my family to a church supper. I know what it is like not to be welcome at the table to break bread.
OMG 36
And here The First Unitarian Church of Orlando stands in the voice of love and in the summer heat to beat the pavement with us as Brian Moore and the others sat in air conditioning behind those formidable doors I will never be welcome to enter. Those very doors said: God is conditional here and yet outside, The First Unitarian Church of Orlando embraced love. I felt God’s power outside the walls of the building. Around us were people from all over the state and surrounding states. They were from diverse backgrounds. Some were atheists. Some were religious from all faiths. There were many families, widows, adults and young children. There were straight people there that were parents of LGBT kids and kids with LGBT parents. There were couples that had been together for years and married in other states only to be rejected equal rights from our home state of Florida. It was a virtual garden of people who stood in the light so all our families too could grow. I saw passerby's in cars giving the thumbs up, beeping their horns, shouting words of praise.
It felt good. I heard numerous speakers making their voices heard. They spoke of equality, of family, diversity and love. They spoke out demanding the same opportunities for our relationships, our families and our children. A young lady named Sarah came up to the microphone with the voice of an angel to sing “Amazing Grace.” My eyes welled up as she reached in, grabbed my heart and gave it wings. Our voices were heard. I was not alone. We were not alone. While rain was all around us and dark heavy clouds were in the distance, the rain was held back until it was over. Every last speaker spoke. We were protected in the light until the very end. We converged on a church and God came to listen and protect his people. I felt embraced and appreciated as we celebrated victory. August 8, 2010… this day will forever stands as a protest victory for Stand Up Florida.
Join Stand Up Florida’s Annual Membership now for just $35 a year and receive discounts at various locations totally over $400.00 in savings.
Here are a few of our participating GLBTA Businesses that have already signed up with many more to come in the next few months.
OMG 37
OMG 38
OMG 39
OMG 40
OMG 41
OMG 42
OMG 43
OMG 44
OMG 45
For more information on DJ Blaze Milan and The Vault Miami, please visit www.thevaultmiami.com
Up and coming DJ and owner of “The Vault Miami,” Blaze Milan has undoubtedly become a household name amongst southern Florida’s locals, ballroom kids and casual club hoppers alike. I took the time to interview my favorite resident DJ about his pubescent days as a DJ and his aspirations for the near future. Buzz continues to grow about Blaze, and he continues to give me the “holy ghost” as he pumps my favorite beats weekly at downtown Miami’s The Vault.
QOMG! MAGAZINE & ADJ BLAZE MILAN OMG!: Blaze, when was the “birth” of The Vault Miami, and how long have you been a DJ? BLAZE MILAN: The first night of operation at The Vault was January 30, 2009. I’ve been DJ’ing for almost a year now. OMG!: What type of music do you play and what is your personal preference when it comes to taste in music? BM: I really play everything. I play ballroom house, b-more house, hip hop, R&B, reggae, underground hip hop and any other songs that people ask me to play. I take a lot of requests, so I always learn about different songs that I didn’t know before. My personal preference is b-more house music. I love the sound of the beats and just how the songs are put together OMG!: When did you become a Milan? How did you become a Milan, and what category did you walk? BM: I have been in Milan since October of 2009. Rico Milan took me in as one of his own and told me that the house was interested in me. I walked my first ball at Rico’s Flip The Script ball and won for body as a 007. Of course, I gave my points to The Milans and soon after that it was all history. I became a Milan and walked again for body and won that one as well. OMG!: How have your experiences been DJ'ing at ballroom functions? BM: Ok, so that was the hardest thing to get used to. There are so many different categories and knowing which songs to play was very hard for me. I did have a lot of help from Nic Nac Ebony and many more.
OMG 46
I pretty much have it down now and I am constantly getting new music from other ballroom peeps to help me get better. I used to take insults too seriously from MCs during the ball because I felt like they were trying to basically go off on me and I am not the kind of person to keep quiet. I have been rude to a couple of MC’s which I do regret now b/c it really is not that serious and I really didn’t need to get upset. Now, I take the time to get ready for the balls, make sure I have my music ready and just have fun doing it. It’s a breeze to me now. OMG!: How do you feel about the ballroom scene? BM: I really do like it. I think it is very interesting to see what looks people can come up with. I look forward to going to them just b/c I never know what I’m going to see. OMG!: What direction do you see The Vault going in and should we be expecting any new additions or surprises? BM: I see the Vault being the club that everyone knows about whether they are local or out of town. We plan to do some expansions but still are working out the details. We are always trying to re-invent ourselves as well as upgrade the venue that we have. For anyone that has seen where The Vault started and where it is now will see a complete difference. Basically The Vault is constantly changing because we put a lot of money back into the club to do enhancements. OMG!: Lastly, tell us a little about yourself Blaze. I know “Blaze” when he’s not on the 1’s and 2’s and making me stomp around The Vault in a drunken stupor to my favorite beat but tell your audience some things about you that they may not know.
BM: Most peeps know me as just a DJ, but there is a lot about me. I owned the club with Linc. I graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a Computer Science degree. I was the first African American to receive the Outstanding Achievement Award. I graduated as Summa Cum Laude with a 3.957 final GPA. Most peeps would not know that I’m really a geek. I love computers and learning new technologies. I never thought in a million years that I would be a club owner and/or a DJ. I always wanted to learn how to DJ, but didn’t see where the opportunity would present itself. When we first started the club, DJ Surreal was the DJ there. As time passed and DJ’s came and went, I decided to start DJ’ing at The Vault myself. DJ Surreal took the time out to show me the basics and basically got me on the right track. From there, I just started practicing a lot and kept trying to get better. When I first started, I was terrible, I know I was, but within about 2 months I started getting less complaints. Then it turned into peeps saying: “wow, you are starting to get good.” Then eventually peeps started seeing me as a DJ and not a person learning how to DJ. In this past year I have been able to DJ at The Vault and a few other clubs. I also DJ’ed at the Gay Pride event in Wilton Manors, and a few other events that weekend. I have started to get bookings out of state. I even have one coming up to go to the Bahamas which should b a lot of fun. I really do love my life right now because I am working for myself and having a lot of fun doing it.
OMG 47
OMG 48
OMG 49
OMG 50
OMG 51
OMG 52
OMG 53
OMG 54
Light
up!
T
he world is becoming increasingly unpredictable as increased levels of stress and anxiety bombard us daily. With all the insecurity and instability in life, where can one turn to achieve peace and happiness? Simply put: look within yourself. Search yourself to find "Virtutem in temporibus infirmitatis inveni. (Find strength in your moments of weakness)." Let me offer a couple of suggestions to help focus from within:
1. Live in the moment!
Focus on the everyday. When you find yourself in the midst of a nerve-racking situation, stop! Take a breath, focus inward and ask yourself, “What’s wrong with this situation?” More often than not, you will find that nothing is really wrong at the moment. We become overwhelmed when we loose focus and regress into past regrets or focus on future concerns – this equals anxiety. I’m not saying to deny what you are facing, but don’t get lost in the drama either. Deal with it, compartmentalize it and move on. Being in the present will bring you greater alertness and inner security, allowing you to face challenges with more neutrality and great inner peace.
2. Laugh at yourself!
When you realize that you are obsessing over a concern or worry, I recommend looking at it from a different point of view. Find a way to laugh about it. Try looking up at the sky and remind yourself that you are obsessing again. Speaking from experience, I can assure you when you don’t take yourself so seriously, you will immediately defuse the apprehension of the human intellect. Trust me, taking a minute to rewind and breathe will allow you to assess the situation more clearly.
3. Roll with it!
Often times as adults, we lose our ability to “think like a child,” we become too rigid and no longer go with the flow. We cling to ideas about what “we want,” and fight against the natural current of life. We get wrapped up in the idea that acquiring what we want out of life make us happy. Far too often, this is not true. Our happiness depends on the wisdom of the choices we make “in the moment.” So, here’s what you need to ask yourself: “Am I choosing to be happy or am I fighting for what I want?” “Am I obsessing over this particular idea or am I willing to go with the flow?”
4. Take responsibility for your personal happiness!
I can’t tell you how many times I have found myself saying, “if only he/she wasn’t so… then, I could be happy!” Being dependent on the behaviors of others will never bring us happiness. Whenever “they” aren’t doing what we want them to do, we suffer. This is not right. If you are allowing YOUR happiness to be dependent on others, you are continuously setting yourself up for disappointment. People change, and things are never what you expect them to be. Stop trying to change the people around you. Accept the world as it is and focus on praising and approaching the people around you. Trust me, its so much easier this way. While I am no expert and this column is by no means a diagnosis or prescription for a cure; I just set out to offer sound advice for the reader to apply as they see fit. It has worked for me. I challenge you to give a try to work for you. Another way to connect your mind and body is through Massage Therapy! Give yourself the gift of happiness today with a massage at TAMPAPROMASSAGE. There are a lot of massage therapists out there, give yourself the massage you pay for. At TAMPAPROMASSAGE, I offer quality affordable massage on your terms. For more information or to schedule your appointment today call (813) 368-0532 or check out my website at www.TAMPAPROMASSAGE.com.
Y
Trouble Getting Up?
our mood that is… major depression is one of the more commonly encountered psychiatric disorders in gay men and women. While many effective treatments are available, this disorder is often underdiagnosed and undertreated because patients do not mention their symptoms or share many personal feelings with their providers. While women experience higher rates of depression compared to men, recent research has suggested that nearly 18% of men over the age of 19 experience major depressive disorder at some point in their lives. That’s just depressing! Major depressive disorder is a diagnosis that has many associated lifetime risks including increases in rates of suicide, medical illness, disruption in interpersonal relationships, substance abuse and lost work time.
The most common presenting symptoms for depression are:
1. Depressed Mood A person may report feeling "sad" or "empty" or may cry frequently. Children and adolescents may exhibit irritability. 2. Decreased Interest or Pleasure A person may show markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all, daily activities. 3. Weight Changes Significant changes in weight when not attempting to gain or lose (a gain or loss of 5% or more in a month) may be indicative of depression. In children, this may also present as a failure to make expected weight gains. 4. Sleep Disturbances Insomnia or sleeping too much may be a symptom of depression.
OMG 58
5. Psychomotor problems The person may be observed to be both agitated and restless or physically slowed down in their movements. 6. Fatigue Deep fatigue or a loss of energy is a symptom of depression. 7. Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt A depressed person may feel that they have no value or they may feel inappropriately guilty about things they have no control over. 8. "Brain Fog" A depressed person may have a diminished ability to think, concentrate or make decisions. 9. Thoughts of Death A depressed person may have recurring thoughts of death, especially thoughts of suicide, with or without a specific plan. There are several effective options for treating depression, most of which have had significant research to back their claims of success. Psychotherapy and counseling has been shown in clinical trials to be an effective treatment option, either alone or in combination with medication. Medication alone also can help relieve symptoms. However, the combined approach generally provides the patient with the quickest and most sustained response. One of my first recommendations is to get moving! The symptoms of depression often improve with exercise. Here are some realistic tips to help you get started and stay motivated. Exercising reduces inflammatory chemicals such as histamine that may contribute to depressed mood or fatigue. Exercising releases endorphins and natural ‘pain killers’ into the blood that help relieve aches and ‘crampy’ muscles. Remember that achieving your goals or challenges, even small ones, can boost your self-confidence. Getting in shape can also make you feel better about your appearance. Exercise can also act as a distraction that can get you away from the cycle of negative thoughts that feed anxiety and depression.
The word "exercise" may make you think of running laps around the gym. While running, lifting weights, playing basketball and other fitness activities that get your heart pumping can help, less traditional forms of activity work in similar ways. Gardening, washing your car, or strolling around the block and other less intense activities can achieve the same effect when used to treat symptoms of depression. Anything that gets you off the couch and moving is exercise that can help improve your mood. The most important step in treating depression is recognizing symptoms and the need to pursue treatment. If you’re concerned that you may in fact suffer from major depression, ask to be evaluated by your health care provider. There are standard questionnaires and important interview skills that your provider can use to help distinguish your symptoms from other common psychological diagnoses, such as atypical depression, anxiety or adjustment disorders. If you’re considering suicide and cannot bring yourself to ask for help from someone you know, contact any national hotline specializing in mental crisis or suicide prevention. The U.S. National Suicide Hotline is 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) or alternatively at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
OMG 59
OMG 60
OMG 61
When OMG! informed us of their debut ATL issue, the Flex staff and especially Brian, our program director reached out to our friends in Hot-lanta to get a taste of what’s “hot” in one of the coolest places to be. Atlanta is all about diversity, especially when it comes to music and hang-outs.
Mary Edith Pitts, the grand diva of Burkhart's is currently singing along to the latest from Christina Aguilera called “You Lost Me.” The Hex Hector mix is a drama filled epic dripping with emotion.
DJ/VJ Bill Berdeaux spins at Blake's on the Park and is super passionate about the anthem “Happiness (Wideboys Club Remix)” by Alexis Jordan. It’s his pick for the Song of Summer 2010. Its melody gets under your skin and will have you swept up in its magic.
Matt Colunga TSwinging Richard’s general manager and jock is grooving to Jumpsmokers “Dance Rock Shake Pop (Reydon Club Mix).” A combination of electro and hip-hop, it’s perfect for the bar’s steamy setting. Bring it on…and take it off!
Jay McCracken shuffles multiple Atlanta residencies at Amsterdam, The Heretic and The Eagle. He’s loving “Back 2 NY (Robbie Taylor & Benny Royal Mix)” by Rob Mirage & DJ Chus. This underground gem is a sexy late night stomper with a driving bassline and cool negative space effects that will have the sweat pouring.
Also on our list is the self-proclaimed gay dive bar Mary's in East Atlanta. Great music from indie to disco to dance. PD Brian has been caught here trying to sing along to that obscure Pet Shop Boys tune. It would help if he knew the words. Munchies & Carbs rule! Joe’s on Juniper offers the most decadent temptations for those all-day bar crawls with friends. Walking distance from Blake’s, its chicken fingers, burgers and yummy comfort food is perfect anytime. Or take in the amazing midtown ATL vibe! Grab the dog, a backpack full of food and your iPhone with MyFlexRadio.com and hang out in Piedmont Park with friends. It doesn’t get any better on a Sunday afternoon. There are so many great Atlanta people and places but so little article space. ATL, we love you and your sexy city. ATL boys… thanks for turning it up with MyFlexRadio.com!
Thanks for turning it up with MyFlexRadio.com! Remember... “You ARE What You LISTEN To!” MyFlexRadio.com is pleased to announce the debut of our hot, new iPhone App! Download it now for FREE in the App Store and turn it up! It’s your inside connection for GREAT MUSIC, your eQuests, Artist Info, Giveaways and tons more! Follow us: facebook.com/myflexradio twitter.com/myflexradio Dance-House-Circuit-Tribal-Chill and more. YOUR MUSIC
OMG 65
O
STEVEN SLATER
K, I have said it over and over again. If you do something bad, outrageous or illegal, you will get rich and/or at least have a TV show. Just one week after he slid down an airplane's emergency shoot, JetBlue flight attendant Steven Slater has received an offer to host a reality TV show in which he helps unhappy workers quit their jobs in creative ways. TMZ reports: “According to well-placed industry sources, Stone Entertainment is going after Slater to host a show in which various disgruntled workers quit their jobs in extravagant ways.”
The offer was received by Slater’s lawyer who is representing the flight attendant facing criminal charges after cursing out passengers upon arrival at JFK airport and exiting from the plane’s emergency slide last Monday. Now, I think this stunt was funny but it was highly illegal.
TREVOR DONOVAN
JOHN & MIKE
I am tired of cases like felon politician Tom Delay getting paid over $300,000 for participating on “Dancing With The Stars” as well as disgraced Rod Blagojevich from Illinois getting paid and receiving exposure on “The Apprentice.” This is getting ridiculous. I called and asked fellow OMG! columnist Darcel Stevens if we could rob a 7-11 or at least pretend to… all while dressed in drag. I thought we would be arrested and then we would have our own show about drag queen robbers. Just kidding! But it does make you think. Let’s bring back fortune and greatness to people who deserve it. Speaking of Darcel Stevens! The well-known female impersonator is turning 50 and will have a very special birthday show on Wednesday, September 8th at the Parliament House Resort in Orlando.
Darcel has touched many lives in this town and was hired when Miss P retired as host. Darcel had been with the Footlight Theatre for many years as a cast member. She was a shoe-in for Miss P’s replacement and has done a terrific job. Check out their website for more info on the celebration show. You are looking good, Girl! Last month, “90210” producers teased fans with the promise that one of the three male characters would be coming out in the fall. According to Zap2it, Trevor Donovan who plays Teddy is the male character coming out in third season. It will be the first major gay character on the remake of the popular 90’s primetime soap. Celebrity managers of the week: While I do work for them at Hamburger Mary’s Orlando, I have to tell you that everyone loves them and they do a great job for the community in Orlando. John & Mike are long time partners as well as partners at this favorite restaurant in Orlando. Drop by and say Hello Mary! Thought of the week: Why do negative people like to bother positive thinking people? It may be that they may want to change. I personally think that most of the time, it is only to bring down the positive person. So I say if you are negative, don’t expect to bring it to my house. Have a great week! Till Next Time,
Leigh
www.leighshannon.com leishannon1@aol.com
Photos by Leigh Shannon
OMG 72
H
ola Senoritas! So the summer is ending but the heat is still whooping our asses. Everyone better bust out the suntan lotion because the summer’s end is going to be blazing. So remember the last time we talked about our awesome adventures on MySpace and how girls are freaking stalkers? The majority of readers have long abandoned MySpace and took the leap to solely use Facebook as their primary and sometimes only public social media site. I bet half of your parents have Facebook accounts where all they do is post notes on your page that read: “you better behave yourself,” what is the person’s comment talking about on your page?” Trust me, I’ve encountered that with my mom the other night and I laughed because I had to take her off. There’s times I like Facebook than MySpace: less crap on your page and you can easily find updates about clubs and locations around your area. Facebook also has those addictive games such as Farmville and Aqua World where you have to keep up feeding your virtual fishes or they will die.
Sometimes it gets hard to focus on any drama on Facebook because of these distractions. But hey, I still got love for the females. Just don’t get carried away and make yourself look like online whores. The one thing we can’t control on our page is the interesting comments we receive. Everyone is going to know what you’re doing every minute because how many freaking postings you people display within a few hours. Family picnic outing on Sunday that everyone will know about. Upcoming vacation trip to NYC that everyone will see photos of. Drunk and obnoxious behavior that your coworkers will undoubtedly read about. You better not have any sexual comments because that gossip will sure as hell spread in minutes. It’s the beauty of technology. Welcome to the new networking, I’ll all there. Just don’t become stalkers MySpace whores and maybe that girl rious about will come into your life. Facebook bitches!
meet you like those you’re cuLove you
FLORIDA
GUIDE
M:FI: LM'I>M>
8
6
7
1
5 9
2 3
10
4
YBOR CITY
7 CITY SIDE 3703 Henderson Blvd. (813) 350-0600 8 VALENTINES 7522 N. Armenia Ave 813-936-1999
10
TampaProMassage 3601 W Swann Ave (813) 368-0532
1 HILTON GARDEN INN TAMPA YBOR HISTORIC DISTRICT CZAR VODKA BAR
2
3
1700 East 9th Ave. Tampa, Florida 33605 813-769-9267
TRIBECA COLORSALON 1600 E 8th Ave 813-242-4080
HOWARD JOHNSON 111 W. Fortune St. 813.223.1351
4
BUDDHA LOUNGE
5
JOFFREY'S COFFEE & TEA COMPANY
5 CHELSEA NIGHTCLUB 1502 N. Florida Ave 6 813-228-0139
GAYBOR COALITION
gaybor.com
1430 E 7th Ave 813-242-0400
9
1600 East 8th Ave. Tampa, Florida 33605 813-247-4600
HAMBURGER MARY'S 1600 E 8th Ave 813-241-6279
SPECIAL VENUES The RITZ Ybor 1503 E 7th Ave 813-247-25550
FLORIDA
GUIDE
M:FI: LM'I>M> 5
6
1
3 4
PARTNERS
46th Ave S
2924 5th Ave N. St. Pete 727-827-2831
37th St. S
34th St. S
2
PENINSULA INN & SPA
2937 Beach Blvd. Gulfport (727) 346-9800
55
4
PUB 5
2
3
6
BG’S BAR
10387 Gandy Blvd. St Pete FL 33702
BUSINESSES
1
MANILOWS NIGHTCLUB
1148 U S 19 N. HOLIDAY FL 34691 727.940.5854
TRIBECA SALON South Tampa 920 West Kennedy Blvd 850-250-0208 www.tribecasalon.com
FLORIDA
<>GMK:E ?EHKB=: Orange
1
FIRESTONE 578 N. Orange Ave. Downtown Orlando 407-872-0066
2
3 4 5
RAIN 4732 S. Kirkman Rd Orlando 321-276-9466
6 7
GUIDE
FLORIDA
<>GMK:E ?EHKB=: 5 1
6
2 4
3
7
TEAHOUSE &
(321) 422-8610
GUIDE
FLORIDA
GUIDE
NE 27th Ave
LHNMA ?EHKB=: Access Rd
9
E Oakland Park Blvd
Bayview Dr
NE 32nd St
Access Rd
10
5 8
9
NE 26
th Te
rr.
NE 30th Pl
2
1
7
8
4 10
6 14
11
15
13 12
3
WEST PALM BEACH BARS HG ROOSTERS 823 Belvedere Rd. (561) 832-9119 HOTEL NIGHTCLUB 700 South Rosemary Ave. (561) 651-1110 MONARCHY 212 Clematis St. (561) 835-6661 THE LOUNGE 517 Clematis St. (561) 655-9747 WILTON MANORS ATOMIC/BOOM NIGHTCLUB 2232 Wilton Dr. 1 (954) 630-3556
BILL’S FILLING STATION 2209 Wilton Dr. 2 (954) 567-5978 EDEN 3 2387 N Dixie Hwy. (954) 630-3556 GEORGIE’S ALIBI 4 2266 Wilton Dr. (954) 565-2526 5 GIGI & GAVIN’S GOURMET CHOCOLATES 2041 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors, FL 954-626-0629 THE MANOR 2345 Wilton Dr. (954) 626-0082 ROSIE’S BAR & GRILLE 6 2449 Wilton Dr. (954) 567-1320
SCANDALS SALOON 7 3073 NE 6th Ave. (954) 565-3084 SIDELINES SPORTS BAR 8 2031 Wilton Dr. (954) 563-8001 9 TROPICS 2000 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors (954) 537-6000
BUSINESSES BALL 2252 Wilton Dr. (954) 537-4120 BOTTOMS & TOPS 2258 Wilton Dr. (954) 562-6670
CHIC OPTIQUE 2228 Wilton Dr. (954) 567-3937 DENNIS DEAN GALLERIES 2440 B. Wilton Dr. (954) 530-2789 GAYMART 2228 Wilton Dr. (954) 630-0360 ROCK HARD ADULT STORE 2301 Wilton Dr. (954) 318-7625 RUFF RIDERS 2043 Wilton Dr. (954) 318-7625 TINY TREASURE 10 PUPPIES 2043 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors, FL (954) 630-1751
GIGI & GAVIN’S GOURMET CHOCOLATES & COFFEES 954.626.0629 2041 WILTON DR. TO THE MOON 2205 Wilton Dr. (954) 564-2987 VERTIGO SALON 2420 Wilton Dr. (954) 530-0946 RESTAURANTS COURTYARD CAFE 2211 Wilton Dr. (954) 563-2499 GALANGA THAI KITCHEN & SUSHI BAR 2389 Wilton Dr. (954) 202-0000 HUMPY’S PIZZA 2244 Wilton Dr. (954) 566-2722 ISLAND CITY BISTRO 2037 Wilton Dr. (954) 563-2266
JAVA BOYS 2230 Wilton Dr. (954) 564-8828 JUICEBLENDZ 2248 Wilton Dr. (954) 358-0772 LIPS RESTAURANT 1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd TROPICS 2004 Wilton Dr. (954) 463-4269
SEA MONSTER 13 2 S New River Dr. West (954) 767-6200 14 TORPEDO BAR 2829 West Broward Blvd. (954) 587-2500 VOODOO LOUNGE 15 111 SW 2nd Ave. (954) 522-0733
FT. LAUDERDALE CLUBS
CLUB FT. LAUDERDALE 110 NW 5th Ave. (954) 525-3344 GAY SKATE 2604 S FEDERAL HWY (954) 547-3419 LEATHERWORKS 501 NE 13th Street (954) 761-1236 PRIDE FACTORY 850 NE 13th Street (954) 463-6600 TROPIXX VIDEO 1514 NE 4th Ave. (954) 522-4749 PRIDE Center 2040 N. Dixie Hwy.
8 BOARDWALK 1721 N. Andrews Ave. (954) 463-6969 9 COZMOS 2674 E. Oakland Pk Blvd 954-616-8239 THE DEPOT 10 1243 N.E. 11th Ave. (954) 568-7777 JOHNNY’S BAR/ 11 NIGHT CLUB 11 1116 West Broward Blvd (954) 522-5931 LIVING ROOM 12 300 SW 1st Ave. (888) 992-7555
D>R P>LM CLUBS/BARS
INNS/GUESTHOUSES
BUSINESSES
Village of Wilton Manors, Fl. 33305 954-463-9005 MIAMI AZUCAR Too! (new location) 427 Jefferson Ave. (305) 502-2096 CLUB AQUA 2991 Coral Way (305) 448-2214 CLUB SUGAR (formerly Azucar) 2301 SW 32nd Ave. (305) 443-7657 DISCOTEKKA 950 NE 2nd Ave. (305) 371-3773 HALO LOUNGE 1625 Michigan Ave. (305) 534-8181 PALACE BAR & GRILL 1200 Ocean Drive (305) 531-7234 SCORE BAR 727 Lincoln Road (305) 525-1111 TWIST 1057 Washington Ave. (305) 538-9478
ASSOCIATIONS
G
rowing up in Florida, there was always this idea that New York City was a mecca of gayness and creativity where I would move and one day thrive. It would be a big pond and I would be one of the many small fishes. I know many of us have had friends that have made the big move only to return home a few months or a year later, saying it just wasn’t for them. I remember thinking in my head, “they just couldn’t hack it” and that one day I would go up there and prove that I could. As someone who has effectively “made it” up here, my outlook from the lake is completely different. If we are referring to New York City as a big pond, then lets say that it is a poisonous pond that is constantly trying to drown you. This idea that other people “cant hack it” in new York is socially constructed and stems from our own insecurity about where we are in our own lives. We see other people move on to different things and feel a pang of jealousy. If their new lives don’t work for some reason, we feel a tiny pang of delight because of what it means about us. It means that they are no better than us. Living in New York is not easy. You have to plan out where you are going in advance. You can’t get toilet paper, thumbtacks and Golden Grahams from the same place unless you want to pay a fortune.
It is a place full of unhappy people commuting to and from jobs that sap the life out of them as well as social lives that are their only short-lived solace. You are constantly going, day in and day out. Sex & the City made it seem so glamorous. I am here to tell you that those 50-year-old broads must have kept heroin in their clutches in order to live the life they portrayed. My point is that after living here for some time, I completely understand why people move back. It is not for everyone. Not everyone wants to fight the city day in and day out for their right to exist here. Not everyone can stand commuting an hour to and from work every day. Not everyone can be happy living and loving a city that does not love you back. I have the utmost respect for people that move here and then decide to move back because they did not just sit around thinking or talking about what they wanted to do. They actually did it. They decided NYC was not for them. And they made another decision to move back for the sake of their own happiness. That actually takes more courage and self-worth than staying in either place forever. In the end, there are no small ponds—only small perceptions. But for the sake of scale, let’s imagine that Tampa, Florida is a small pond and New York, City is a large lake. This comparison would Panama City (where I come from) a rain puddle or drainage ditch. In retrospect, I have truly loved living in all of these places. It doesn’t matter whether you are a big or small fish, as long as you are a happy fish. Being happy means following your own drum, taking risks and being willing to admit both when things are working for you and when they aren’t. What I have learned is that I have to constantly keep moving in order to live. In the end, that makes me a shark and not just a fish.
I have lived in New York City for two years but will always be a Florida boy at heart. Each issue, my column will document the craziness I have encountered in my journey from the bottom of the U.S. to the top.
E N J O Y T H E F L O R I D A T H AT Y O U O N C E F E L L I N L O V E W I T H
Fly Islands to the
————— a b o a r d —————
SeaCoast
airlines
FLIGHTSEEING ADVENTURES T A M P A B AY • K E Y W E S T Available for charter anywhere in Florida or the Southeast.
A I R L I N E
O F
T H E
C O N C H
R E P U B L I C
1-866-302-6278 SeaCoastAirlines.com