OMG! Magazine V2 Issue 6

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Dear OMG! Readers, I have often remarked that my life is like a musical. There are certain songs that remind me of a key moment in life. There are certain songs that evoke a specific emotion that I experienced. There are certain songs that remind me of the wonderful characters and cast members in my life. Whether the soundtrack to a happy memory or the background to a moment where a lesson was learned, music truly documents my life.

So imagine my excitement when the OMG! family began preparing our 1st Annual Music Issue. From the top moments of Madonna to the return of the pop culture phenomenon Glee, I hope that you all enjoy this issue as much as this music enthusiast does.

Sincerely,

Okie Okesene Tilo Executive Editor

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gotistical American Idol judge, SIMON COWELL, is working overtime to get himself in shape for his upcoming wedding to 37 year old Afghan make – up artist Mezhgan Hussainy. The 50 year old music mogul has traded in his favorite pastas, curries, and Sunday Roast dinners for healthier fare like salads, fish, chicken and vegetables in hopes of looking his very best when he walks down the aisle with Mezhgan later this year. He’s also admitted to having Botox injections and doing 100 push –ups every day, which he performs naked in his master bath, followed by another 100 later in the day. And while the idea of a naked Simon pressed against the cold bathroom tiles at 6 am every morning doesn’t necessarily make us swoon, at least he’s doing his best to impress his much younger fiancé who, by the way, spent eight years married to a Middle Eastern rug dealer, ten years her senior, in the 1990’s. Maybe Simon simply doesn’t want to go the way of Mezhgan’s first hubby, so he’s getting in tip -top shape before making gorgeous Mezhgan Mrs. American Idol.

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scar winner SANDRA BULLOCK’s hubby JESSE JAMES may or may not have had a steamy affair with tattooed model Michelle McGee, but he really is a good guy when it comes to his charitable donations. The Monster Garage guru recently built a $145,000, chromed out; one of a kind chopper to be auctioned off with proceeds benefiting The Children’s Village – an orphanage in East Africa.

The orphanage’s founder is former Floridian Sam Childers, a one- time Hell’s Angeles biker and drug dealer, who found God and built the oasis as a refuge for children left homeless and parentless by the war in Sudan.

Now Childers personal story of salvation is going to be told on the big screen by writer Jason Keller and Oscar nominated director Marc Forster (Monster’s Ball/ Finding Neverland) with GERARD BUTLER in the lead role! To get more information on the Children’s Village and find out how you can help, check out www.

angelsofeastafrica.org

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peaking of the Oscars, good thing Nominee WOODY HARRELSON’S Oscar garb didn’t go up in smoke. The actor confesses he had his spiffy black tux specially made for him by Burberry – out of HEMP. Harrelson has made no secret of the fact he’s an advocate for legalizing Marijuana and he openly smoked a joint during a recent Playboy interview in Hawaii. “I like the mellow vibe of herb, its uninhibiting effect. For me it’s a better drug than any of the others, and since we’re all addicts of one kind or another, I don’t think it’s a bad choice.”

Sure dude, whatever.

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ucci, Gucci – goo. Pampered Princess SURI CRUISE has a designer wardrobe that would rival that of any Hollywood star. My source tells me the three year old’s wardrobe is worth almost $2 million, and while she is mad about her designer duds, she doesn’t like to wear the same outfit twice! “Suri loves fashion,” says the source. “Her closet is filled with dresses by Armani, Donatella Versace, Pucci, and Roberto Cavalli. And she owns several mini handbags designed just for her by the likes of Valertra and Ferragamo. Recently, when Katie dropped $500 on a pair of red buckled flats by Roger Vivier, Suri insisted she have some just like her famous mom’s, which set Mrs. Cruise back another five hundred bucks. And while Tom is always telling his wife not to spoil their daughter, when it comes to the price of style for Suri, he agrees the sky is the limit.

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amed Numerologist GLYNIS MCCANTS, author of Glynis Has Your Number, and her latest tome, Love By The Numbers, tells HOLLYWOOD HOT SHEET that she discovered an interesting fact about TIGER WOOD’S troubles. She says Woods was in a personal year of 8 in 2009 when he got caught being unfaithful to his wife Elin. A personal year of 8 means that if a person is up to no good, is lying, or trying to hide something, chances are… he’s going to get caught!

The personal year is calculated by adding together the day and month of your birthday with the world number of 2 (arrived at by adding together the numbers of the year, 2009, then reducing the number 11 to a single digit).

Tiger’s birthday - 12/30/1975 - put him in a personal year of 8. Ironically the last time McCants saw this happen was with politician JOHN EDWARDS, who was also in a personal year of 8 last year when he got busted for cheating with his mistress Rielle Hunter – with whom he fathered a child. OMG! This probably means that if YOU are in a personal year of 8 in 2010, you better behave, because you probably won’t get away with trying to hide any secrets from your mate!

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exy Ghost Whisperer JENNIFER LOVE HEWITT is a woman of her word. Last year about this time, the 31 year old actress said that if her boyfriend and GW co-star Jamie Kennedy – who plays Eli - hadn’t dropped to one knee and proposed to her by June, 2010, she was kicking him to the curb. Sure enough, the guy got the boot this week. Sources say Love got the heads up from her former beau that he wasn’t ready to ask her to marry him, so she decided to cut her losses and cut him loose.

During their year of togetherness, Kennedy’s role in Ghost Whisperer got increasingly larger every week until, to the disappointment of fans who didn’t think Jamie was all that, he ended up with a bigger role than her husband, played by actor David Conrad. Now that Kennedy is JLH history, maybe he’ll fade into the background to the applause of GW fans.

Maggie is a Hollywood journalist who has written for such publications as STAR, In Touch, Life and Style, National Enquirer and OK! Magazine. Now she’ll be keeping OMG! readers up to date on all the latest celebrity dish!

We also hope you will e-mail Maggie, at maggie@omgmag.com, with any questions or comments you might have on Hollywood Hot Sheet. And let us know about local celeb sightings or news tips. We’d love to hear from you!

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oh em glee!: The Return of Glee By Okesene Tilo

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emember Cop Rock?

What about Viva Laughlin? Sadly most readers will not recall these two infamously short-lived television musical series, and those who do remember them could probably ramble on about how dreadful they both were. Glee is the current exception to the disastrous television musical curse, bringing in both critical raves and healthy ratings.

After a four-month hiatus, the pop culture phenomenon returns to television airwaves Tuesday, April 13 on Fox. The series has won the 2010 Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series (Musical/Comedy), introduced the word “gleek” (a nickname for a die-hard Glee fan) into the pop culture lexicon, debuted overseas in the UK to massive ratings and OMG 12

even chart success for some of the show’s singles, and spawned a summer concert tour that will include a three-night stop at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

For those foreign to the massively tweeted-about television hit, Glee follows “New Directions,” a high school glee club led by teacher Will Schuester (actor Matthew Morrison) who longs to restore his alma mater’s glee club to its former glory.

Members of “New Directions” include attention-craved Rachel Berry (played by the sensational Lea Michele), football jock Finn Hudson (Cory Monteith) and recently outed Kurt Hummel (Chris Colfer). The show focuses on the ongoing drama of its glee members, the clashing of the glee club with the Cheerios (the high school cheerleading squad), led by coach Sue Sylvester (perfectly played by scene-stealer Jane Lynch), and the love triangle between Will Schuester, his conniving wife Terri (Jessalyn Gilsig) and doe-eyed guidance counselor Emma Pillsbury (Jayma Mays), all while inserting clever musical numbers of popular songs in between.

Co-created by executive producer Ryan Murphy (of Nip/Tuck and Popular fame), Glee has found commercial success on iTunes with over two million copies of cast-recorded singles downloaded. Remarkable covers of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Be-

lievin’”, Rihanna’s “Take A Bow” and Salt-n-Pepa’s “Push It” have scored with audiences. A witty take on Beyonce’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” by the high school football team has become a video favorite on YouTube. Ryan Murphy promises more excitement including an all Madonna song episode when the show returns.

“I’ve worked with Madonna before,” said Murphy in a recent interview with E! News. “I admire her greatly and I’m friends with her a little bit socially. I called her up and wrote a letter and said we want to write up a tribute to you and she said yes and she co-operated in every way possible. We do ten songs altogether.

Jane [Lynch, who plays Sue Sylvester) is going to do ‘Vogue’.”

Ryan Murphy has other tricks up his sleeve to ensure that viewers stay glued to his hit show. Look out for guest appearances by Neil Patrick Harris and Broadway superstar Idina Menzel, along with Glee covers of numbers originally by Lady Gaga and Aerosmith.

Glee returns to Fox on Tuesday, April 13 after American Idol. Check your local listings.

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You’re a FAKE!

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ucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Dolce and Gabbana, Custo, Versace, Coach, Cartier and Tiffany are some of the most popular designer luxury brands in the world. The more fashion-conscious we become, the more familiar we are with designer logos, colors, traditions and craftsmanship. As a result of this fashion familiarization, we often immediately associate fashion insignia as shallow and tie it with status. Who doesn’t want to be complimented on their Friday night ensemble? Why would you wear it if you didn’t want anyone to say anything? All that effort for nothing? Sorry, ladies, if I’m wearing $500 shoes you will (or I will make you) notice. Why? Because it feels good. Fashion is not cost-effective; it’s not supposed to be. Just like anything else that tickles your fancy. But to what lengths are you willing to go just to be runway FIERCE? Well, whatever you do, do not,

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and I repeat, do not resort to designer imposters.

It’s just atrocious. How could this have happened? The designer imposter business is at pandemic levels. They are everywhere, not just at Canal Street in New York City where someone whispers “Louis Louis” and you follow them by yourself in the dark two blocks down around the corner through an alley, in the backdoor, down the stairs, and voilà!

Take your pick, pay, grab your complimentary bottle of water and run out of there. How do I know this? Don’t ask, we were all young once...very young. All of these designer replicas (which is a little nicer than saying FAKES) are not only coming out of Asia, but Latin America and eastern European countries too.

If you are buying designer goods out of someone’s trunk, I can guarantee it’s fake. Beware of eBay. Scam headquarters!

If someone is auctioning off a brand-new-with-tags Versace shirt for $10.00 and shipping is $39.99...FAKE! Flea markets, garment districts, swap meets.

HAHA...FAKES. If you want designer goods and don’t want to be taken for a sucker, what you need to do is first decide how

bad you really want it and if it’s worth it. Once you have made your decision and paid more than your minimum balances on your credit cards, go, search and purchase. Pay close attention to hardware, stitching, misspelled logos and cheap leather. Check the tags; where was it made? You have to be careful with this tip because a lot of luxury items are technically being manufactured in China, then sent to Europe for detailing, final inspection and tagging. Most fashion houses don’t really like to discuss that part because they still want you to think that some little old man just spent two weeks making your left shoe by hand.

Luxury brands can only be legally sold at their own boutiques, and of course other authorized dealers. Some of my favorite online shopping websites are Gilt. com, Hautelook.com and yoox. com. These fabulous online retailers offer access to deeply discounted designer apparel and accessories. Some do require membership in order to shop the private sales events. Don’t forget, you get what you pay for, and sometimes you don’t get what you pay for. I will be watching. May the fierce be with you!

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he performing arts collective Square One is back with a creative event that is sure to exceed expectations and is sure to become the hottest happening this spring in Ybor. The event is called “Camille Leone,” an artistic experiment which hopes to showcase different artists’ creative points of view within malleable boundaries.

“Camille Leone” is the name of an imaginary woman who will come to life in the expressions of the various artists present at the event. The name sounds like “chameleon,” which is exactly what is intended. As chameleons can blend into various scenes, so will the artists with their interpretations; individualism is paramount and what can be done within the theme is most encouraged. The theme’s colors will be red, gold and green, a nod to the Culture Club song “Karma Chameleon,” and will feature prominently with artists and their exhibits. To allow everyone to “blend in,” attendees are encouraged to wear these colors and to also wear a mask, so their true identity can be masked and their creativity can speak for itself.

Over 80 local artists are expected to show off their exhibits at Camille Leone including Chris Zenger (OMG!’s very own Creative Director). The event will be held on April 17 at The RITZ Ybor and is an event for all ages. Doors will open at 7 p.m. with the event event continuing until midOMG 18

night. There will be a $2 donation which can be paid at the door; you can reserve your own VIP table by emailing rsvp@squareoneflorida.com.

Performances will be held twice, at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. and will feature Bella Danza (Artistic Director: Maria Capitano Pardo), the V.Y.B. Dance Company, Anye Cole, J-Pop, and Ashley Wilson.

Fashion shows will follow, featuring designs by Disco Dolls and Lauren Kroeger. The 10th Concession, well-known for playing Georgie’s Alibi in recent weeks, will be performing in The RITZ Ybor’s Royal Room for attendees throughout the night.

This is the fifth Square One Creative Event held at The RITZ Ybor. Led by Okesene “Okie” Tilo (OMG’s Executive Director), Square One has quickly become an institution in the entertainment district by holding their biannual events in Ybor since the spring of 2008 Past events have included “GO!” (Spring 2008), “Virgin 2.0“ (Fall 2008), “La Di Da” (Spring 2009), and “Magnum Opus” (Fall 2009). It is expected that “Camille Leone” will draw over 2,000 people to The RITZ Ybor, in line with past attendance.

Square One’s award-winning event planning ensures that “Camille Leone” will be a night to remember. Come along and have some fun.

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Irish singer Niamh Kavanagh is a multi-million-selling singer. But in the United States, she’s virtually unheard of. That is, until now. She’s now music’s “face of tomorrow” Stateside, but as for today, she’s perhaps the best singer you’ve never heard of.

With her most famous song, “In Your Eyes”, she has been awarded double platinum certifications as well as the title of highest-selling single of 1993 in Ireland, edging out such artists as Whitney Houston and Meat Loaf.

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was a recognizable name in the British Isles at one time, with her work prominently displayed in such venues as the film The Commitments and the annual Eurovision Song Contest.

Then, at the height of her recognition, she took time off to devote her energies to her life’s true crowning achievement, motherhood.

busy schedule to talk to OMG! about her musical inspirations, her success and time away, and her return to music in Ireland as well as her hopes for America.

At the age of 42, she has started a comeback in Europe, and this time she also aims to take a crack at what seemed impossible to her before: making her mark on the American market. Niamh took time out of her

I have been singing my whole life; actually, I can’t really remember a time when I didn’t sing. I guess my first strong memory is at my home, my family had parties and I would always have to sing some songs.

When did you first start singing?

Who were your musical inspirations while you were growing up?

My father sang in bands and played saxophone; I admire him greatly. He played a lot of music as I was growing up and the house was filled with Aretha Franklin and Ella Fitzgerald, Blood, Sweat and Tears. I love all kinds of music but I would say these, and then Bonnie Raitt, would be my strongest influences.

What is a typical work day like for you?

A typical workday will depend on whether I am wearing my artist hat or my mother hat. But it is usually intertwined. It starts early, mainly with sorting where everyone has to be for the day and making sure we all have what we need for it. Then I walk the dog and settle into admin work, mails that need answered, post, etc.

All this time I listen to music that has been sent to me for consideration; I listen to everything that is sent and respond to each person. Then if I am singing in the evening I prepare the clothes and equipment I need for that. In between I make dinner for the family and organise homework and activities. I am a night bird so like to finish the day by checking into facebook and chat to some people and catch up with what people have posted during the day. Of course this changes if I am travelling abroad and promoting because then it is all about the song I am promoting.

A lot of your songs are ballads in the “torch song” tradition. Do you like more fast-paced songs or do you just prefer ballads?

I love to sing all types of songs. I love uptempo songs. I grew up singing soul music and so that features in my set. I love a good ballad, but it isn’t the only thing I sing. I am in preparation for a new album and we are considering what songs to record; uptempo songs are definitely going to feature.

When you became wildly successful in Ireland in the early 1990s, how did you feel? Was it overwhelming at times?

It was a shock in the first instance, I had done The Commitments album before this and although my songs were popular, no one knew who I was, and in a weird way that

is what I was expecting when I did the Eurovision, so to be recognised in the street was a new experience for me. I enjoy meeting people so it is not a chore for me; sometimes it can take you a little longer to get places though! You just work around it the best you can. Most people are being very kind and complimentary so if they have time for me I try to make time for them. It’s not always possible but you do your best.

For a while, you retreated back into the shadows before coming out in full force this year. Was it your choice to lead a quieter life, or did your career path not progress like you had wanted?

Well you might say it’s a combination of the two, but mainly the last 10 years has been about my children. You only get one time to have with them when they are small and I have been lucky enough to be able to continue singing but still be home with them. I would not change it for the world.

You’re a big name in Ireland and you’re well-known in the United Kingdom, but few people know who you are in the United States.

Do you feel your new song “It’s for You” could be a strong contender to top the Billboard charts, in a sea of Ke$has and Justin Biebers and Rihannas?

“It’s for You” has great passion and emotion. I would like to think it has a place anywhere people value that.

We cannot predict what people might respond to anywhere in the world. But I have a voice that will work in America and there is a place for us all. After the last Eurovision I had the honour of recording an album in Nashville with John Jennings as producer (he also produces Mary Chapin Carpenter). I love America and had my green card to go live there 18 years ago, but then with the last Eurovision win I had to stay here

really. If you are asking me if I want to be in the Billboard charts the answer is hell yeah!

Do you think Americans, especially the gay community, should pay more attention to Eurovision?

It’s pretty much unheard of here.

One of our readers calls it “the gay World Cup,” meaning the collective eyes of gay Europe are glued to the proceedings. Do you think the gays across the sea could learn a thing or two from the singers and the Europop ditties some of them provide?

Not sure how to answer that question, really. I know the Eurovision is seen all over the world and is more popular in some places, but like it or loathe it it is a fantastic spectacle.

Not many people can say they have sung to over 350 million people, like I did once before and will again hopefully. I think it is fabulous to watch, and every now and then something amazing happens. I don’t know if the gays could learn anything from it, as I feel they are already well equipped and talented in the States, but perhaps they would enjoy it and feel a part of what we do. I will say this, I will be more than happy if you all paid attention to it. The more who see me the better I say!

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lease don’t take away my gay card or anything, but I couldn’t resist the temptation. Shamefully, I watched Lady Gaga’s leaked “Telephone” video a full three hours before its scheduled premiere at 11:30 P.M. on March 11.

I even posted the link on my Facebook page for all my friends to enjoy. I know, I know… Even Gaga’s pissed at me, but take a number.

In late January, Gaga teased her fans on Twitter and said, “On the set, I feel bad for the ‘Bad Romance’ video.”

Ever since then I’ve been practically salivating.

Easily, it’s become one of the most anticipated music video releases of the year. Clocking in at nine minutes and 30 seconds, the short film/music video does not disappoint. It’s pure visual campy amazingness – the likes of which only the Haus of Gaga can produce.

True to her word, the video picks up where “Paparazzi” left off. Gaga is escorted into a prison by two butch dykes who proceed to strip her down to nothing but her stilettos and fishnet stockings. One of the guards comments, “I told you she didn’t have a dick!” That’s when you know it’s on, baby!

Cue the announcer: “Beyoncé on the line for Gaga.” The catchy instrumental tune you’ve heard played on the radio countless times begins to sound, signaling the start of a pop contagious ride that takes us from behind bars to a roadhouse diner.

The girls compete against one another in over the top fashion. Gaga rocks crime-scene tape, chains, a telephone-shaped eye patch made of hair and cigarettesmoking shades.

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Beyoncé tries to keep up with short bangs and a militarystyle, jeweled blue top. All of which are very pleasing to the queer eye.

It’s obvious the video concept was somewhat inspired by Quentin Tarantino’s “Kill Bill” flicks – girls, language, chick brawls, murder, cheesy one-liners (“Trust is like a mirror. You can fix it if it’s broke… But you can still see the crack in that motherfuckin’ reflection”) and crude humor to top it all off. Beyoncé even picks up Gaga in Uma’s old ride, the “Pussy Wagon.” It all works brilliantly!

By the time you read my review, you’ll either agree with me or not.

Love it or hate it, prepare for the onslaught of this video getting serious rotation in every gay bar across Florida with a television screen.

I left my head and my heart on the dance floor…

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Singer-songwriter Makeba Riddick is called “the Girl Wonder,” and is there any doubt as to how she earned that name?

Her songwriting credits are lucrative and eclectic, ranging from Rihanna’s Top 5 single “Rude Boy” to Kelis’s dance chart topper “Acapella” to the Sugababes’ Top 10 UK hit “About a Girl.” Currently she’s working with Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins on material for Diddy’s latest album. In short, she earned her “wonder”-ful nickname.

Makeba Riddick talked to OMG! this week about her personal style, and what she thinks is in store for this year so you can be on top of the latest fashion trends.

What do the words “personal style” mean to you?

When I think of personal style it means your own expression on fashion or what’s fashionable...from your personal perspective. It’s like the streets of the world are my runway and it’s my “line” that I designed making a debut. Personal style is a look uniquely derived from who you are as a person in the world of style and fashion.

How long did it take for you to find a personal style that works for you?

I was a late bloomer in the style department. Growing up I was a musical prodigy child even into my college years.

I was most focused on making music that affected peoples emotions. Not style and fashion.

As I blossomed and traveled the world I was exposed to many different cultures and styles. I began to hone my own personal style as I traveled and was exposed to the works of different fashion designers. I was heavily influenced by hanging out with superstars in the studio and on the road.

What kind of clothes and accessories do you have to have in order to pull off your... ...professional daytime look?

My professional daytime look is very rock star chic, or sometimes colorful. Being that I’m an artist/producer/songwriter I like to stay on the fun side of fashion and keep a youthful element. ...going to the club “evening” look?

The evening look is always sexy but classy. Black, navy bue and gold are three of my favorite colors for the nightlife. Sexy with a dash of color. ...relaxing/going shopping with friends look?

The fun look is usually designer jeans or American Apparel leggings. I love any kind of boot and a fashionable sweater or light jacket. I always incorporate bright colors whenever I can.

What advice would you give to our readers who are still struggling a bit with their own personal styles?

Start reading Vogue Magazine, Cosmo, and W Magazine. Try to identify yourself in other people that you see on these public platforms. Never be afraid to ask for assistance in putting an outfit together when you’re in a store.

What kind of fashions do you think will be in this year for men and women?

I think for men it’s going to be a more tailored look. Suit jackets and slacks. I think white will be a popular look for men this year as well. For women I think it’s going to be more casual. Summer is coming and Anne Klein and Gucci have some really hot cruisewear.

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t has been said that great service is an art form. As Bernini’s of Ybor turns 14, I decided that for this edition of Tampa Bay Eats, I would see if the “teenager” can live up to its reputation. Noted to be one of the strongholds of classic Italian cuisine in Tampa, and having been voted the “Best Place to Impress,” I wanted to put this title to the test.

Bernini’s of Ybor provides a pleasant dining experience in a setting that enchants all who step inside. Located at 1702 E. 7th Ave in Ybor City, Bernini’s is a restaurant that stands on its own merit, not being part of a corporate chain. They promise to take your dining experience right to the heart of Italy. Offering “innovative Italian cuisine,” Bernini’s menu features an astounding array of culinary delights from lemon-scented calamari, pistachio-crusted grouper, or the signature risotto entrée. Bernini’s offers entrees that will satisfy even the sternest Mama Celeste!

Named for the 15th century father of Baroque art, Giovanni Bernini, the restaurant is housed in a century-old former bank building in the heart of Ybor’s entertainment district.

The restaurant is a tasteful collection of art and sculpture encompassing three distinct floors of candlelit tables ready to accommodate any size dinner party. A strong mix of old and new, the lovely classical space gives way to a quaint wood-fired oven that turns out pizzas of every combination imaginable. But it is what you find beyond the pizza station that makes this Italian food fan ecstatic.

It was a brisk Saturday night, when my party descended on Bernini’s for a jovial monthly dinner party. Our evening began with our waiter, leaning over the table and sounding very much like a priest probing for a painful confession, intoning, “Do you know how our dishes work here at Bernini’s?”

Not waiting for an answer, he continued, "The servings are prepared to order, with specialized ingredients, so it may take a while for your food to arrive.” If service is a true sign of a restaurant’s maturity, then this would be my major sour note of the night. The wait staff seemed to be in a hurry, bustling around, but I was never quite sure what they were in such a hurry about.

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Perhaps it can be chalked up to a busy Saturday night, but everything coming out the kitchen seemed slow. I understand a great meal is to be savored and enjoyed, but a 15 minute wait for a bread basket and water is unacceptable, even on a Saturday night.

Hungry, and in search of good Italian food, we perused the menu for starters. The food at Bernini’s can be spectacular. Composed salads are a mainstay of the first group.

Sometimes these hang together and blend well (as in the case of the signature “house salad,” the Mista – a mix of Mescal greens tossed in Bernini’s house vinaigrette garnished with bleu cheese, dried cranberries, pine nuts and shaved red onions), but sometimes they seem like random objects on a plate (as did the Bernini salad, a pile of marinated artichoke hearts, mix with radicchio, asparagus, baby greens, bleu cheese, endive and tomatoes with a sweet/tart herb dressing). The latter combination just laid on the plate awaiting consumption – no pop, no flair!

Excellent dishes can be found in the starter section like the sumptuous eggplant Bonanno - a crispy fried eggplant stacked with ricotta cheese, fresh prosciutto, fresh basil and mozzarella topped with spinach pesto and marinara sauce. It was a triumph in itself, with just the right blend of pesto and marinara – a memorable part of our meal.

Graduating to the main course, again Bernini’s boasts a reputation as being the best place to impress in Tampa.

The pasta selections are characterized as the cornerstone of Bernini’s allegiance to being a true Italian restaurant.

Perhaps this is based on the evidence provided by their featured pastas. These pastas are the best part of the menu, even though the small size of the servings might drive you crazy. Take the cinzano de pesce: an assortment of shrimp, mussels, clams, fresh fish medallions and blue crab sautéed in a sweet red vermouth marinara sauce with crushed red pepper served over linguine. My date and I counted just four shrimp, two mussels and a couple of pieces of undistinguished seafood meat that could have been either fish or crab, all ladled over an overbearing bowl of pasta in a sauce that could curl an alcoholic’s toes. In fairness, the pasta was tasty, but this wasn't a case of less equals more.

Chef Jason Fernandez delights in mutating traditional recipes, often with exciting results.

One such offering is his signature dish, simply titled Jason’s Favorite. This pasta dish has just the right mix of fresh garlic, tomatoes, basil, extra virgin olive oil, marinara sauce and parmesan cheese tossed with capellini pasta and grilled chicken. It was a simple but elegant dish that I can say I would order again.

If you are a “meat and potatoes” person, you might enjoy the 8 oz. grilled tenderloin filet served over mashed potatoes with grilled asparagus and Bernini’s signature steak sauce (a well guarded secret mixture of spices that made the steak “pop”), topped with bleu cheese crumbles; it's well worth the wait. Juicy, tender, and cooked to perfection; you could cut it with a butter knife!

No dinner experience would be complete without dessert! Like most Italian restaurants in town, Bernini’s offers the standards: tiramisu, cheesecake with fresh berries, two layered Belgian chocolate cake, and key lime pie. However, what sets Bernini’s ahead of the competition are their home-made gelatos (Italy’s regional variant of ice cream). Made with some of the same ingredients as most other frozen dairy desserts: like milk, cream, and various sugars, Bernini’s gelatos are flavored with Tahitian vanilla and cappuccino hazelnut. I am not much on desserts in general, but you would be missing out on one of the best items on Bernini’s menu if you pass up the gelatos!

So the question remains, did the “teenager” impress our dinner party? Food at Bernini’s can be spectacular. From a food point of view, we found the menu to be a nice mix of traditional virtue with cutting edge innovation. There were some “hits and misses” in our group, but on this night, it seemed the overall consensus was the chemistry between food and service just wasn’t balanced. Until next time: Buon appetito!

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ositive thinking is the greatest power a human being has at their disposal.

The world today is in the state it is as a result of mankind’s thinking; collectively, each nation is in its present state of peace, prosperity, poverty, murder, and anarchy as a result of its thinking as a group. Each person is what they are, with a life being what it is as a result of one’s thoughts. What a person thinks is what they become; what a person thinks attracts to them to a type of environment; what a person thinks determines what type of people they will surround themselves with; a man decides whether he will be happy or unhappy, successful or unsuccessful, healthy or unhealthy, prosperous or poor, hated or loved. What a man thinks can overcome fate.

There is no limit to the power of thought, because it is a spiritual power of strong influence. Through thought, man either blesses or curses himself.

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piness, poverty or prosperity in their lives. It is all in our mind and thoughts. We live in a common Universe, but we do not always act accordingly. We should not attempt to alter the universe; we should be the ones to change.

We carry in ourselves the cause of the disorder in our own individual world because we live in a world of our own creation.

Therefore, only we can change that world which we have created. We can change our lives by the power of positive thinking.

There are two kinds of thought, positive and negative. Our lives depend on which thoughts we insist on thinking and pass to our subconscious mind. If we allow our mind to dwell on destructive, negative thoughts, which unfortunately happens many times since it requires little or no effort, then destructive and negative action will result.

On the other hand, if we promote positive or constructive thoughts, which requires effort, positive action takes place as a natural result.

Therefore a man who thinks destructive thoughts will do de-

structive things, but if the same man focuses his intentions on the positive aspects of life then his life will become happy and peaceful, and in its highest form, a success.

A man who has fearful thoughts will probably fail, because all his actions will be weak and without the strength and decision making abilities which are necessary for the achievement of success.

A man who believes in himself, however, will succeed due to his positive thinking.

Life is not a matter of chance or luck; it is not something out of our control. It is largely the result or effect of our thoughts.

By controlling our thoughts, we can regulate our lives to attain almost unbelievable successes, or we can think non-positive thoughts and doom ourselves to a life of unhappiness, poor health, and little or no success.

Most people mean well and want to do well. But, nevertheless, we fall into negative thinking due, mainly, to ignorance or to the way we were taught. Because it is not generally understood that negative thoughts are highly de-

structive, we mistakenly indulge in them, thinking that they do no harm. Actually, thoughts of anger, revenge, fear, failure, weakness, sickness, and death, are all highly destructive. They are destructive of health, of happiness, and of life in general; yet, we perpetuate them.

It seems to me that the world is divided into two classes of people: those who overcome life, and those who are overcome by life. Those who overcome life’s difficulties are those who do so by their own thoughts. Those who are overcome by life’s difficulties are those who can’t seem to overcome life’s difficulties by thought.

This leads me to dialogue about worrying. Worry is a destructive force. By worrying over our troubles, we cause fear, resulting in more worry and an endless cycle. Worry becomes a habit. That is to say, as soon as a thought of some impending trouble comes to us, or something goes wrong in our life or work, or we think that something has gone wrong or will go wrong, or we fear that it may go wrong, we immediately go into the worrying mode.

Some people are “worry-warts” naturally or learn it from their parents. Rather than to submit to imaginary fears, we must meet them boldly with posi-

tive thinking. There probably is nothing more negative and destructive than running away from our fears. Attempting to avoid an issue likely will increase the trouble, really creating more to “worry” about.

The fact of the matter is that we live in an orderly universe, but we are not orderly ourselves. Life may contain many disappointments and many blows. Many of these, however, are of our own creation as a result of negative thinking. Life is essentially good.

If we harmonize with life and self, we avoid much misery and trouble.

Thought affects our health far more than is generally realized.

While it is true that hereditary traits and unhealthy ways of living play an important part, thought is believed to be a huge factor. Maybe we should not think so much of sickness, ill health and disease, and think instead of good health, wholeness, and well-being. Thinking about disease and ill health creates a condition likely to result in disease. It is a good thing to think of oneself as whole, healthy, radiant and filled with life, joy and energy. Such a mental picture can do nothing but good. It does help to say, “I am in wonderful health” and try to feel like it, picturing yourself,

mentally, as the image of perfect health and vitality. By doing this you are taking a great step towards better health. However, this is in no way a substitute for a doctor’s opinion; as such I do not diagnose nor prescribe in any way.

By using the power of positive thinking, we become so strong that we can meet and overcome the natural results of negative thinking. What that means is that we have come into alignment with the harmony of the Universe, the Divine Order which nothing can destroy, and over which the forces of disorder have no power whatsoever.

Positive thinking wins out over the negative, when human beings allow stressful events roll easily off our backs.

So unplug, allow yourself to relax and let go. Give yourself a break today with massage!

There are plenty of LMT’s out there, but make sure you are getting what is right for you. At TampaProMassage, I offer quality, affordable massage on your terms. For more information contact me today at (813) 3680532 or check out my website at www.tampapromassage.com

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Hola everyone!

I'm back in da house, running down all that is girlie and glamorous around the bay!

Let's get started with the topic everyone wants to chat about these days: RuPaul's Drag Race. After a week off, the show came back with fireworks in tow! After a fierce wedding/alter-ego-style photo shoot, the girls lit up the catwalk with high fashion and classic drama. This week it seemed that all arrows were aimed at central Florida's Tyra Sanchez. Now, I have not had a chance to sit and talk to Tyra personally, but I have heard from a lot of the local girls that the Tyra they are seeing on the show is not the Tyra they know.

In person they say she is one of the most laid-back, humble people around. I do not know if it is clever editing or the hyper-reality that is TV, but she seems to not be coming out in the best light. After their discussion in the Interior Illusions Lounge, I do think that in future episodes we are going to see a different side to her. Can't wait to see!

Now back to the real world! I was chatting with Esme Russell, who recently had the chance to work at the Flamingo Resort in St. Petersburg. She hosted the T-Dance by the pool and said she had an absolute blast. She was filling in for Flamingo resident Alexis de la Mer who was in Ft. Lauderdale representing the resort at Pridefest. Esme said the resort was absolutely beautiful and the people were definitely enjoying soaking up the sun by the pool. I OMG 32

haven't had a chance to go yet, since my schedule has been so crazy, but I'm looking forward to checking things out soon!

new pageant to the Honey Pot in Ybor this July. I will be talking more about it as the date approaches, but I can already say it is going to be an event not to be missed. Bob has a reputation of putting on stellar shows and with the staff and management of the Honey Pot behind him, it is going to be a flawless night!

Well, boys and girls, that does it for this issue, but I do need your help! I know we have many readers in the Key West area and I have never had the chance to visit, so I don't get a

Esme Russell Not too much happening on the drag pageant circuit right now, but we have some fun events coming in the near future! Pulse in Lakeland is preparing for their annual Miss Lakeland Newcomer Pageant. The reigning Miss Lakeland Newcomer is Jaq'lyn Chambers and this year's contest is being held on May 17. The presentation theme is "Lemons & Limes"; this gives the contestants a chance to introduce themselves in their own creative way using the colors green and yellow. If you are interested in competing or attending, you can contact Jarrod or Marshall at MissLakelandPageant@MySpace.com.

Also coming soon will be the Miss Florida USofA Newcomer Pageant.

Owner Bob Taylor is bringing this

Jaq'lyn Chambers chance to chat about them very often. So if you have some info on the shows and entertainers in Key West, feel free to write me at JocelynSummers@aol.com and I will make sure that I include them in the next issue!

Much love to all!

Jocelyn

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“cult” favorites, to perform for the most hardcore electronic music fans.

At this time, the Ultra Music Festival also aligned itself with the longrunning Winter Music Conference, which brings DJs and music industry gurus from all over the world to work together and sample each other’s ideas and works. This alliance is still in place today, although both events are run in separate locations and by different people.

he Ultra Music Festival celebrates its 12th annual celebration this year, and considering its meteoric rise and gargantuan success, they have a lot to celebrate. This year’s event, to be held on March 26 and 27, is expected to blow away attendance records, an occurrence that is now rather routine.

In 2005, Adam Russakoff and Charles Faibisch were brought on to have a hands-on role in running the event, and for the first time, the event completely sold out. The next year, an even bigger venue was needed, so the organizers of the festival moved just next door to Bicentennial Park.

Each year, attendance has skyrocketed, with 85,000 people attending the 2009 Ultra Music Festival, an increase of 35,000 from the 2007 event, the first year the festival was expanded to two days from the original one.

First started in 1999 by Russell Faibisch and Alex Omes, the latter of whom was the publisher of DVOX Magazine, the debut festival was held on the sands of Miami Beach, with just three stages. After two years, demand grew so much (attendance doubled between 1999 and 2000) that the Ultra Music Festival was moved to the Bayfront Park and Ampitheater, where it would stay for the next four years. During this time, the number of stages expanded from three to twelve, allowing more acts, both nationally-known and smaller

The Ultra Music Festival’s reach spans far beyond Miami; 2010 will mark the third year Ultra will be running a festival in Brazil, and the fourth year a mini-event has been held in the Spanish tropical paradise of Ibiza.

Plans are even in the works to bring a version of the festival back to New York City, where it was a massive success in 2005 and 2006. The Ultra Music Festival has won many awards, including “Best Music Event” by the International Dance Music Awards four times (including 2009), and the “Best Festival” by the Village Voice

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Media New Times four consecutive years running.

There are so many artists performing across 12 stages over the course of two days that it would be impossible to name them all in the magazine, but we will run down the headlining acts who will be featured on the Ultra Main Stage. Dutch DJ Tiësto will start things off on Friday, followed

by French sensation David Guetta.

Also performing that day will be duo Groove Armada, the band Passion Pit, English electropop singer Little Boots, electro-hip-hop duo LMFAO, wonky pop artist Dan Black, electro house DJ Wolfgang Gartner, Dutch spin artist Afrojack, German modelturned-DJ Miss Nine, Italian producer Francesco Rossi, and the robot laser show Kryoman.

Saturday starts out with Canadian progressive house DJ deadmau5.

From there, performers on the main stage include house DJ trio Swedish House Mafia, Dutch trance producer Armin van Buuren, British electronica band Faithless, Italian electro house producer Benny Benassi, reggae artist Damian Marley with rapper Nas, DJ sets to Groove Armada and the songs of Scottish singer Calvin Harris, Australian duo Nervo, indie rock band Jaguar Love, and resident Ultra DJ, Australian Nate Campbell.

Tickets are on sale now and cost $139.95 for general admission (both days), or $350 for VIP access. May the groove be with you at Ultra!

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PARTNERS SPORTS BAR

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What’s up Miss Honeys? That’s right, the bitch you love to hate but can’t wait to see is back again. I'm ready to give you the news and queues with a taste of attitude. Now I know it’s been a minute since you last were able to “read me,” but just in case we have some fresh faces, let me explain “The Goings On.”

Everything you read here is merely my opinion and not necessarily that of any OMG! magazine staff or its advertisers.

This is the truth told through my rose-tinted frames on all the happenings in Central Florida.

Picture me as the genie guiding you on a magic carpet ride, or like the light at the end of the tunnel, or that healthy 10-incher you met last night on Manhunt.

That’s right, this ain’t gossip, it's gangsta! I’m giving it to you raw and real. So hold on tight, it could get a little bumpy.

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Looking through the GLASS Lounge

Unless you have been lying under a rock (or smoking it), then you're already up on the new place to party called GLASS Lounge, located at Vintage Ultra Lounge on 162nd St. North in downtown St. Pete. This whimsical weekly Wednesday party welcomes the gays, the straights, bisexuals and transsexuals. Even those who are straight with questions can find the answer there. As you walk into this ultra-swank locale, the flirtatious lighting draws you in to the heterogeneous environment of characters. It's the ideal place for the Avec Moi: Wonderland party, a theme event based on Alice and Wonderland, hosted by yours truly as the Cheshire Cat. No matter what the premise or crowd, on Wednesday nights you can always expect a diva guest host coupled with the unexpected.

Kicking Balls

This past Saturday I decided to go have some fun in the sun with ladies at the 2nd Annual Kickball Tournament. Of course, like many of you I could have thought of a shopping bag full of things to do with my time. However, I would like to thank my sista “Big Girl” for dialing me up to remind me, as if the 101 emails and updates I received weren’t inundating enough.

Nevertheless, I threw on my best “trying not to look like I strategically coordinated” outfit since our plans were to head to the gym afterwards. Knowing our reputation all too well, I knew if there was a whiff of an alcoholic beverage in our midst, all plans would be null and void. I must admit, upon reaching the field, I was shocked

that these queens were actually out in the sun amongst dirt and clay kicking balls. I mean, really, in the back of my mind I was hoping 2nd Annual Kickball Tournament was some kind of new gay slang for a BYOB party. Nope! These whores were actually serious… with teams and stuff. Who knew?

At this point I’m sure you're asking yourself, “Did Macaviti get out there and play?” Hellz no! I sat in the stands with the “cheerleaders” and laughed at all the sissies who could catch cold before they learned how to catch a ball.

A Mike’s Hard Lemonade (or three) later, the game was finally ovah, and a few of us set off to The Lodge to celebrate whoever won.

After hanging out, shooting the

breeze, and sipping the sauce in the sun, as the other patrons whispered and pointed at the table full of gays, I felt my perm sweating out and we agreed to assemble at everyone’s main dive, GBAR!

Manny Panny at the Pot

A few Fridays ago I got ear that one of my favorite circuit sensations, Manny Lehman, was descending upon one of my favorite hot spots, The Honey Pot, located in the heart of GaYbor at 1507 E. 7th Ave. I mean, really, who else is going to bring us this world-renowned entertainment other than The Honey Pot? When I arrive on the scene there was what I would call a "Manny Panny."

Everyone rushing, pushing, and scampering to get inside to catch those sensational beats. Never a disappointment, Manny stirred the pot with a concoction that included a dash of Barbara Tucker’s "Feeling Like a Superstar", a spoonful of Rihanna’s "Hard" with a little of Beyoncé & Gaga peppered throughout the evening. Yes, I must say, yet again, it hit the spot.

Weather it be Kristine W, Mike Curz, Manny Lehman, or that one-hit wig wonder Kim Zolciak, why even gag, cause Florida Entertainment Group gives it to you every time.

Well folks, that’s all this time. I’m sorry I must cut this short, but remember, never fear; if your mind wanders, let it lead you here.

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n fourth grade, my grammar teacher handed out a survey on the first day of class. I read the first question. “What is your goal in life?” I chewed on my soft, soothing pencil and carefully wrote, “To see Phantom of the Opera.” When my teacher read my answer, she explained that I needed to come up with something important. I stubbornly refused to revise my response.

Six years later I finally got to see the musical in Tampa. I dressed up in velvet, wore perfume from The Body Shop and clutched a shawl the whole time like a Victorian heroine with the vapors. For weeks afterward, I walked around in a happy, dizzied fog. Looking back, I can’t wholeheartedly mock my childhood self. I can’t blame myself for getting so wrapped up a story about the power that music holds over us when I continue to be a complete bitch for music.

In college, I made dozens of mix CDs. I labeled them not by their contents but by the time of year or occasion. Spring 1999. Road Trip to Atlanta. Spring Break in Tennessee.

Christmas 2001. My memories are folded into weird, eclectic mixes full of everything from clips from Sifl and Olly to Fleetwood Mac to classic Outkast.

Can you remember when you heard a certain song for the first time?

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Does your childhood have a soundtrack? Do you remember the albums your parents played? Do you remember your first concert? (Mine was Three Dog Night at a waterfront park in St. Petersburg.) Do you remember lullabies or dirty rhymes you learned in school?

Something in our brains is hardwired to memorize the beautiful math of chords and melodies. We remember songs. We remember lyrics. We move. We dance. I think music is what separates us from the animals.

Two weeks ago I enrolled my son in ballet classes. Once a week, we drive to a nearby city recreation

center and he spends an hour dancing with six little girls and another little boy. He’s four years old. Ballet isn’t for boys.

Ballet isn’t for girls.

Dance has no gender, as far as I’m concerned. He wants to move his body, his feet. I’m not going to tell him no. And if, when he’s eight, his goal in life is to see a band or a broadway musical, I won’t tell him to come up with something serious. Music is as serious as the air we breathe.

CMILLE LEONE AD

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et’s face it, we all know we need to exercise. Many of us know how to exercise.

How many fitness magazines or videos do you own? How many gym memberships have you had in your life? But you’re not doing it! Why? Simple…lack of motivation. This is a subject that hits close to home with me. I have family member who is extremely obese and starting to have health issues even thought she’s only 28 years old. Like most in my family (including myself ), she has struggled with her weight most of her life and can’t seem to get it under control. We have had several discussions about what she needs to do and how important it is, but she just can’t get motivated to start exercising. Does this sound familiar? What can be done about it?

You need to find YOUR motivation and become consistent. Once you become consistent, you will start to see results and that will keep you motivated to continue. Here are some steps that will help:

Step One: Find Your “Why” To be successful at anything, including exercise, we must have a good reason for doing it. What will get you up in the morning when you just want to stay in bed? Many people say “because I want to lose weight” or “I want to be fit.” These are good goals but they are they are not good enough reasons for long-term success. You have to dig deeper. “I want to lose weight because it’s hard to breathe when I’m sitting” or “I want to be fit because I’m really tired of taking diabetes medications.” What’s really important to you? Answer these questions to find your “why.”

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Finding the motivation to start exercising Step Two: Make a Commitment Once you find your “why,” it’s time to make a commitment and carry it out. How many times have you been excited to start an exercise program, only to become bored? As soon as the excitement passes, most people stop exercising. Be sure you

Step Five: Avoid the “All or Nothing” Mentality

are ready to commit, and if you are not, it’s okay. Let go of the guilt and commit when you are ready.

What if you plan to exercise five days this week and you missed the first day? Many people give up on the rest of the week. This is known as the All or Nothing Mentality. It doesn’t work and you set yourself up for failure. Allow for flexibility in your exercise plans and know one missed day is not a setback.

Step Three: Set Daily Goals

Step Six: Have a Support System

If your only goal is to lose 50 pounds it will be a while before you feel successful. Set daily measurable, achievable goals that allow you to feel successful every day. Keep a weekly diary and set goals each day for what kind of exercise you will do, how long you will work out, how hard you will exercise, etc.

About 95% of beginners will stop exercising. Why? No support. Research has shown those who have a support system have a better chance of continuing exercise. You need someone who will hold you accountable.

A personal trainer, coach or mentor will give you the support you need and you can work together to keep your commitment and overcome obstacles. Most people need more support, follow up and accountability than they think.

Step Four: Keep Track of Your Progress After you set your goals and write them down, chart your progress.

This will become extremely motivating as you see yourself meeting your goals. With consistent exercise, you will become stronger and more powerful. This often happens faster than visible results on your body.

Many people become frustrated and quit exercise right before big changes happen because they don’t see the results on their bodies. Seeing measurable progress on paper will keep you motivated while you work towards the bigger goals.

To help avoid the All or Nothing mentality, don’t try to implement all these steps at once. Pick one or two and when you have those working, add another step. Just like results from exercise, building motivation and consistency will take time. Fitness is not just about reaching a destination, it 8goals.

Chris Alberts Independent ACSM Certified Personal Trainer (727) 542-9716 www.SoHoHealthandFitness.com Locations: SoHo Health and Fitness, South Tampa and Elite Training Center, St Pete

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CWPD

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Hola, putas!

As of this writing, March 11, I’m onboard AirTran flight 120HELL en route to Puerto Rico for a little tropical fun in the sun. After traveling through about 25 minutes of sky turbulence and feeling like I was about to puke, my plane finally settled.

Thank God it did, or I would’ve had to bitch slap the passenger next to me; it was his first flight. Speaking no English, he was as nervous as a virgin at a prison rodeo (lol).

So Miss Darcel, what are you going to do while in Puerto Rico? Well, contrary to popular belief, it’s not WHO I’m going to do, but what I’m going to do. Five things I must see and do: hike in El Yunce (The Rain Forest), visit Old San Juan, go parasailing, visit Spanish Michael’s 106-year-old great-grandmother, and see the drag shows at Club Crash and the Sunday T-Dance drag shows on the beach.

Don’t get me wrong about men, if by some small chance I meet a hot Puerto Rican who’s at least 30 years of age, has a job, loves his mother, and has a credit score of 800 or more, I may not return to Orlando (keep dreaming, fat bitch!). Can’t wait to hit the clubs where your favorite Big Old Fat Black Bitch will shake her ass to the hot sounds of Puerto Rico: salsa and merengue music! Be sure to read my next issue when I’ll tell you all about the island sights, shows, and men.

The Parliament House Resort will present its annual Miss Parliament House Pageant on Monday, March 22 at 9 p.m. in the beautiful Footlight Theatre. Entertainment for the evening includes the reigning Miss Parliament House, Dorae Saunders; former Miss Parliament House Daphne Ferraro; The Minxx; and Miss Central Florida Newcomer Makaylah Sanchez. With contestants judged OMG 52

in three categories: presentation (Project Runway), talent, and evening gown, only one contestant will join the long legacy of extraordinary entertainers as the 34th Miss Parliament House. For guaranteed seating, check out the box office at www.

WANZIE.com or walk in at 8:30 p.m. for available seating.

Saturday, April 17 is Orlando’s White Party! Just around the corner, this nationally recognized party is sure to be blast. Tradition dictates that everyone should wear white clothing, which represents AIDS awareness. Scheduled to kick off this year’s White Party is Josh Evans' annual Runway for a Cure fashion show, hosted by Josh Evans and yours truly.

You won’t want to miss this professionally orchestrated runway fashion show, featuring top designers and retailers from the Orlando area. To purchase your ticket (VIP $50.00, DIVA $20.00 and Standing Room $10.00), check out the volunteer sales team starting March 19, located at the Parliament House breezeway every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 100% of ticket sales go directly to the Hope and Help Center of Central Florida, a full service local charity that’s dedicated to helping Central Floridians who are affected by/infected with HIV or AIDS. Runway for a Cure tickets also include FREE ENTRY into the Orlando White Party later that evening (SWEET! Thanks, Don). Guest entertainers include: from Atlanta, the Grand Empress of the South, Charlie Brown; from Jacksonville, Sania Cruize; from Tampa, Robyn Demornay; from Fort Lauderdale, Kitty Meow; and from Miami, Chyna Girl.

This diverse cast will join the awardwinning Footlight Players (Sassy, Armani, V, Keith, Nick, Paul, Freckles, and myself ) for a gigantic White

Party pool stage show at midnight.

Don’t watch from the sidelines or wait for highlights to appear on YouTube; come be a part of the Orlando’s White Party 2010. See you there!

OMG! I just saw Lady Gaga’s new music video, "Telephone", featuring Beyoncé, and it's f**king awesome!

You must check it out by logging onto http://www.ladygaga.com/telephone/#. This video blew me away; it’s visually creative, lesbian-oriented, and a bit of '60s camp drag.

OMG! You must also pick up Vanessa Mitchell’s new release, "Rejoice", a mix of gospel and high-energy house music. With Vanessa’s powerful vocals, this artist is never drowned out by the background music, unlike many others. Best known for her house gospel classic "This Joy", Vanessa Mitchell continues to give us great music with meaning and power.

OMG! My final pick for new music comes from Sade. Her new CD is hauntingly beautiful, full of passion, and filled with great lyrics. Sade may not appeal to those Gaga or Beyonce fans, but if you’re looking for music that will stand the test of time, you’ve got to check out Sade.

For a sneak peek from her CD, log onto http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=JbB1eI5WlEg. Got to run; time to eat some Puerto Rican roasted pork!

Love you all but I’ve got to go…

Ms. Darcel Stevens

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SPREAD

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Love her or hate her,

there is no denying Madonna Louise Ciccone’s influence on music and pop culture.

Today’s music landscape would look a lot different had the fearless girl from Bay City, Michigan never moved to New York City and released her debut album nearly 27 years ago. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2008, and continues to thrill and titillate the masses. No music issue could ever be complete without some type of Madonna mention. Move over Lady Gaga and Beyoncé! OMG! looks back at some of the reigning Queen of Pop’s top moments since she touched us for the very first time.

Madonna Bonaparte

Madonna kissed a girl and she liked it

(1984) On January 14, 1984 and in one of her first major televised appearances, 25 year old Madonna performed her hit single “Holiday” on the popular American Bandstand show. Afterwards, host Dick Clark asked the upand-coming pop star, “What do you hope will happen not only in 1984 but for the rest of your professional life? What are your dreams? What’s left?” Madonna’s classic and prophetic response: “To rule the world.”

whole world was invited to see? Well, that actually happened in 1991 when Madonna showed up on the Oscars red carpet with none other than the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson, as her date. She was there to perform her Oscar-nominated song “Sooner or Later” from Dick Tracy, and was dressed in her best Marilyn Monroe ensemble. The press went crazy over their arrival together, and viewers were glued to their television sets to catch a glimpse of the star couple in the audience shots stuffed in between the presenters and awards speeches. The 1991 Academy Awards will forever go down not as the year that Dances with Wolves won Best Picture, but the year when the King and Queen of Pop ruled Hollywood’s biggest night.

Queen of the VMAs

(1984, 1987, 1989 & 1990) From her virgin performance at the very first MTV Video Music Awards in 1984 where she writhed around onstage to “Like a Virgin” to her show stopping performance of “Express Yourself” at the 1989 show, Madonna has consistently been a highlight performer at the annual MTV awards fest. Sure, she had a misstep with her 1998 performance of “Shanti/ Ray of Light,” but there is always the unforgettable and iconic 1990 Marie Antoinette-inspired “Vogue” performance that makes up for it.

The King & Queen of Pop… and Hollywood

(1991) What if the two most famous people in the world went on a date and the

(2003) At the time, Madonna was recuperating from the commercial failure of her American Life album. Younger pop starlets like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera were ruling the pop charts and generating enough press to start their very own daily tabloid publication. On August 28, 2003, Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera opened the MTV VMAs dressed as brides while performing their rendition of the Madonna classic “Like A Virgin.” Emerging from a cake and dressed as a groom, Madonna performed “Hollywood” while relegating Britney and Christina as her back-up singers. Sealing the performance by kissing both pop stars, Madonna proved that while her music albums might not be the red-hot sellers they once were, she can still easily top international headlines, grab everyone’s attention and remind the newer generation of pop stars who’s still the boss.

House of Madonna Ninja

(1990) The “Thriller” music video is to Michael Jackson’s legacy as the “Vogue” music video is to Madonna’s legacy.

Ranked as the second best music video of all-time by MTV (only behind “Thriller”), “Vogue” is the magnum opus of Madonna’s music videos.

Filmed in black and white, the video pays homage to 1930s Hollywood glamour and movie stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Marlene Dietrich while bringing the underground “strike a pose” dance obsession to mainstream popularity. Directed by David Fincher, the “Vogue” music video is nearly two decades old but remains ageless and timeless. “Beauty is where you find it.”

Not dry and sour

(2008) Madonna had just signed a record breaking $120 million contract with Live Nation to release her next three albums and promote her next world tours. While many critics suggested that the Pop Queen could no longer justify such a massive payday, the first tour under hew business

Golden Globes

deal with Live Nation proved to be her most successful yet. Earning a staggering $408 million, Madonna’s Sticky & Sweet Tour became the second highest grossing tour of all-time and the highest grossing tour ever by a solo artist. Fans were in Madonnaecstasy as she performed classics such as “Borderline” and “Vogue” along with newer singles “4 Minutes” and “Give It 2 Me.”

Love justification

(1990) Madonna was MTV’s most played and most popular video artist in 1990. When the Material Girl sent the video channel her newest video to the racy “Justify My Love,” the network decided not to air the video due to its strong sexual content, sexual references and nudity. Talk of a banned Madonna music video featuring bisexual romping, androgynous characters and S&M play spread like wildfire. Media commotion followed, which only helped catapult the single to the #1 spot on the Billboard charts. Madonna released the banned video as a VHS single, which quickly became the top-selling music video of all-time.

It’s a Celebration

(2009) As her recording contract with Warner Bros. Records came to a close, Madonna released Celebration, a greatest hits album and DVD documenting the best in the Material Girl’s catalogue. The retrospective combined 1990’s The Immaculate Collection, 1995’s Something To Remember and 2001’s GHV2 into one 2-disc set. Fans were able to own videos to “Who’s That Girl,”“Erotica,” and “Deeper and Deeper” for the first time since their release. Along with two new singles, Celebration was the ultimate “thank you” to Madonna fans.

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(1997) Madonna… an award winning actress? Not quite something one often hears or would dare dream could become a reality. At the 1997 Golden Globe Awards, Madonna beat out acclaimed actresses Glenn Close, Frances McDormand, Debbie Reynolds and Barbra Streisand for the Best Actress (Comedy/Musical) award for her role in the musical Evita. While the Academy Awards virtually ignored her applauded turn as Eva Peron, her Golden Globe win was the one notable accolade that Madonna received from an industry that she has faced incredible difficulty in conquering.

Madonna releases Truth or Dare

(1991) A shock doc? A vanity project? Critics and audiences had varying opinions on Madonna’s notorious tour documentary that chronicled her onstage and backstage during her iconic Blonde Ambition World Tour.

One thing that can be agreed upon is the superstardom that Madonna had reached. Twenty to thirty years from now, it will be crystal clear to anyone viewing this film why this brassy blonde was ever the most famous woman in the world. In the vein of Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe, Madonna had become a legend and Truth or Dare is the proof why.

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Spring is in the air and MyFlexRadio.com has your musical weather report for the season. In the club DJ business, humidity is measured in the amount of kinetic dance floor steam on the walls and windows of the club. As Florida finally transforms into “The Sunshine State” and the circuit boys frantically hit the gyms in preparation for the early summer parties, Circuit DJs play a little game called “What Song Will Be The Summer Anthem This Year?” There are lots of contenders this year. Check out these releases that will have you singing along all summer long and pumping your body to the beat.

“Make My Heart” – Toni Braxton She’s back and boy did we miss her! I get tons of shocked reactions when patrons ask who sings this track. Sounding a little like Deborah Cox and singing in a higher register than her low, signature Toni mumblings, the diva comes back with a fun, light and happy circuit monster.

I can already hear this one blaring from the convertibles on the beach.

“Never Had Another Love” – Inaya Day She’s left her problems on the dance floor and moved on up to this pretty ode to a spectacular love affair. Perfect song to dedicate to your significant other. Simply luscious.

“Telephone” – Lady Gaga feat. Beyoncé The kiddies already love this formulaic pop offering from the two biggest divas of the decade. Not to be confused with their other lesser duet “Videophone”. What’s next… ..”Cell Phone”? It’s fun for a second.

“One Love” – David Guetta feat. Estelle Wow. This anthem has been around for a few months now but its amazing quality is still winning over fans. Hands in the air, everyone, for this song that transcends race, creed, color, and sexual orientation.

“Drummer Boy” – Debi Nova Bossa Nova, everyone! Sounding like a mash-up of “The Boy From Ipanema” and the Christmas classic “Little Drummer Boy”, Debi makes you wanna bang on some pots and pans. Super cute and catchy.

“Whataya Want From Me” – Adam Lambert A great homage to the best of gay '80s pop, Adam’s vocals

and the Fonzerelli mix reincarnate Dead or Alive, Erasure and Jimmy Somerville into a nice neat package.

“I Am” – Mary J. Blige Moto Blanco provides the mix. Mary sings about how good her love is. Disco house for the new millennia. In short, it’s the spawn of “Be Without You” and “Just Fine”.

“Rise” – Vernessa Mitchell The Gospel dance diva returns with another HOT barn burner. Grab the bar napkins or use this for your next workout because sweat does ensue.

“If We Ever Meet Again” - Timbaland feat. Katy Perry The most unlikely of all duos knock out a pretty anthem that reminds me of a Kelly Clarkson track, or “Halo” for all you who only speak Beyoncé.

“Glitter In The Air” – Pink The Grammy Awards aerial stunt is still being analyzed and buzzed about. Bootleg club mixes are trickling in. Here’s hoping we get some meaty club mixes from the best circuit remixers. Oh dear Pink, how we love thee! Spin, bitch, SPIN! “Nasty Boy” – Jipsta The Princepenned Vanity 6 classic gets a male remake that has the balls and the smart-ass lyrics that all the horny boys identify with. Think of it as a live Adam4Adam ad on the dance floor.

“Can U Hear Me” – Altar feat. Amanda I’m feeling a late '90s Thunderpuss Veronica track here. A little Hispanic Freestyle flavor, a Tony Moran remix and sweeping strings make this a joy to spin. It’s even got a spoken word breakdown where she disses her guy

before she says goodbye. Getting the last word in never sounded sweeter.

“Dust In Gravity” – Delerium First off, let me remind you that these are the folk who had commercial success with a classic trance single featuring Sarah McLachlan called “Silence”. Now we’ve got them teaming up with R&B artist Kreesha Turner for this Macy Gray-sounding goodie. Totally unexpected, it’s Leona’s “Bleeding Love” meets Duffy’s “Mercy”.

“Sweet Disposition” – The Temper Trap This is the commercial buzz song of the moment. You can hear it in the Diet Coke and iPod adverts. The '80s are back baby! An uplifting marriage of U2 and The Communards, it brings back memories of good times. Watch out for this band from Australia.

We love to put the HOTTEST TRACKS in your head at MyFlexRadio.com.

Listen to us while you work, work out, relax, drive or play. We’ll bring you cutting edge imports, mash-ups and the hottest buzz records via laptop, iPhone/iPod Touch, iTunes Radio or smart devices, 24-7. Get the info at MyFlexRadio.com Click the tab called "smart devices".

Follow us: www.facebook.com/myflexradio www.twitter.com/myflexradio Dance-House-Circuit-Tribal-Chill and more. YOUR MUSIC.

DJ JOANIE

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&B singer CeCe Peniston, from Phoenix, Arizona, has been a legend on the club circuit for nearly two decades. She is best known for her club anthem "Finally," one of the biggest hits of 1991, which reached #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Billboard Dance Charts.

She reached more club acclaim throughout the 1990s with hits such as "We Got a Love Thang", "Keep on Walkin'", "I'm in the Mood", "Hit by Love", and "Lifetime to Live."

CeCe Peniston recently performed at South Florida Pridefest, and she talked with OMG! about her gay fan base, what she considers a "club anthem" to be, and if she gets tired of being known just by her biggest hit.

How did you like performing at South Florida Pridefest? What's the one memory that will stick with you long after you've gone?

I really enjoyed peforming at Ft. Lauderdale Pridefest, I love doing shows for my girlfriends... they know how to have a good time. I feel the thing that most people will remember about me is the way I connect with the audience, that I keep it real, and that blue push-up bra I had on. *smiles*

Out of your entire repertoire, people most associate you with "Finally." Does it bother you that you have become most tied to your signature hit? What other songs are you most proud of?

I have worked for 19 years now in the music business, so no, I don't mind that they associate me with "Finally". It's the song I wrote and my checks are great, so I feel blessed. I do know there is so much more of me to come though. I feel better now than I did when I was younger.

I'm more polished now and my voice feels stronger. The other songs I'm proud of are "Keep on Walkin'" and "We Got a Love Thang."

You've had five #1 dance hits. In your opinion, what makes a dance song an "anthem," and do you believe "Finally" is a "dance anthem"? If not, which of your songs are?

I feel like an anthem is a song that you hear over and over again and never get tired of it.

It's also a song that touches all ages, cultures, etc. I do feel like "Finally" is an anthem and I would have never guessed that it would become that when I was writing it.

How do you feel about being "adopted," per se, by the GLBT portion of your fan base?

What kinds of civil rights gains do the GLBT population need to make immediately, and do you think the Obama administration is doing enough to further GLBT rights?

The GLBT community has been supportive of my career from the beginning. It's because of that love I have kept working, become a better artist, and learned how to beat a face and walk in those high-ass heels. I feel like the community just needs to continue to have faith and know that President Obama has walked into so many issues, but he is doing his best to make life better for everyone.

Nearly every one of your singles has been remixed. Which one of your remixes is your favorite?

I have so many favorites, but I really love the "Finally 2008" mix by Vandalism.

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he Winter Music Conference is gearing up for its 25th annual meeting, in which music industry professionals such as record producers, DJs, artists and media from all over the world converge on Miami to learn tips of the trade and to hear what new sounds will be "in" for the year.

The idea behind the conference was started in 1985 by Bill Kelly and Louis Possenti, two DJs and owners of a successful record pool.

Putting the idea in motion, 80 music industry professionals converged on the Marriott Hotel and Marina in Fort Lauderdale in February 1986 to discuss the newest trends in electronic and house music. It became a "best kept secret" to many European music aficionados and travelers, as these genres of music did not gain mainstream acceptance in the United States until the 1990s. British newspaper The Telegraph described the event's early years as making south Florida "a hot spot to rival Ibiza for the (night) club traveller."

By the tenth year, however, the five-day event had grown so large that it was moved to a more trendy spot, Miami's South Beach. By that time American interest in electronic and house music was at its mainstream peak, and thousands of industry professionals flocked to Miami every year. As the events grew, so did its scope; in 1996 The Producers Forum was introduced, showcasing the works and musical points of view of well-established mainstream artists, and in 2007 the International Record Collectors Show was introduced to hook the truest of the true music fans. The International Dance Music Awards, currently a very big

draw to the Winter Music Conference, has been an event mainstay since the very beginning, rising in prominence with each passing year to become the equivalent of the Grammys for the electronic and house genres.

The event has been on a slight downturn in recent years in terms of registered industry delegates. 6,500 registered delegates were present in 2001; this number has fallen to 3,228 in 2009. However, the event makes up for lagging delegate attendance in sheer fan base: over 70,000 people from all over the world attended at least some part of the event last year, which is an increase from 2001, when only 30,000 people attended. In addition, people from nearly every country in the world viewed the Winter Music Conference website between 2008 and 2009, gathering an astonishing 2.7 billion media impressions in the three-month run-up to 2009's conference.

If you'd like a chance to attend, you have not lost out yet! You can still purchase your tickets at the gate, although they will be much more expensive than if you purchased yours months ago. The walk-up price is $475 and gets you into nearly every event across the five days. Don't worry about buying separate tickets to the Ultra Music Festival; your $475 ticket covers that as well. The host hotel for the event is the Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach, which has booked quite a few rooms for their industry delegates, so I would think twice about trying to stay there. However, there may be vacancies that come up through last-minute cancellations, so call ahead and book wisely!

JUDGE

W

hoever wrote “friends are God’s apology for relations” must have been thinking about gay couples when one of them has come to lack the capacity to make health care decisions or is unable to give informed consent. In that instance, Florida law allows a domestic partner or anyone who is not a relative, child or legal guardian to make an advance appointment of a domestic partner or another person as a health care surrogate; they would then be able to make decisions regarding life-prolonging or ending procedures and other important health care decisions.

A written and properly-witnessed health care surrogacy even takes priority over a durable power of attorney so long as it has the required health care language. Even when no health care surrogate designation form has been prepared in advance, a substitute decision maker called a “proxy” can, instead, make medical decisions on your behalf.

Just as with a surrogate, a proxy can be domestic partner or a close friend, a judicially appointed

guardian, a spouse, an adult child (or a majority of the adult children who are available for consultation), a parent, an adult sibling (or an adult relative who has exhibited special care or concern), or a clinical social worker. A proxy’s decision to withhold or withdraw life-prolonging procedures must be supported by clear and convincing evidence that the decisions the proxy is making would have been the decision you would have made yourself if you were competent to do so. If there is no indication of your wishes, it would need to be proven that the decision would be in your best interest. Before either a proxy or surrogate can make such decisions on your behalf, a patient must be incapacitated without a reasonable medical probability of recovery due to a persistent vegetative state, a terminal condition, or an end-state condition which makes him or her physically or mentally unable to make informed decisions of the risks and hazards in a proposed treatment or procedure.

What if you’re a domestic partner

or friend and don’t agree with the decisions a proxy or health care surrogate is making? Florida statutes allow expedited judicial intervention of a proxy or surrogate’s medical decisions to be sought by any interested party; this can include family members, a health care facility, or an attending physician. Intervention can occur if the person believes that a surrogate or proxy’s decision is either not in accord with the patient’s known desires, the patient has changed his or her mind, the written surrogate’s authority was ambiguous or improperly made or revoked, the proxy abused his powers, or the patient has sufficient capacity to make his or her own health care decisions.

Prior to taking any action on any patient’s behalf, a health care surrogate must notify the patient’s spouse or adult children of their appointment as surrogate. Even after being appointed, the surrogate cannot take action unless he or she is satisfied that the patient is incapacitated without a reasonable medical probability of

recovery. This can be due to a persistent vegetative state, a terminal condition or an end-state condition which makes one physically or mentally unable to make informed decisions of the risks in a proposed treatment or procedure. When your surrogate or proxy does act, he or she is required to substitute his judgment for yours and do what you, the patient, would have done under the circumstances. If there is no indication of what course of treatment you have chosen, the surrogate must consider what’s in your best interest to withhold or withdraw treatments. A living will

can also be signed by a competent adult in the presence of two witnesses, neither of whom is a spouse or blood relative, which allows you to direct the providing, withdrawing or withholding life-prolonging procedures as long as you have a terminal condition (or in a permanent vegetative state or in an end stage condition). However, a Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO) cannot be made through a living will and must be made on a designated yellow form. The law currently holds that DNRO’s are subject to the same threshold requirement that the patient does not have a

reasonable medical probability of recovering capacity to give informed consent.

What if you’re feeling just fine and still playing with all your marbles?

Well, you don’t have to wait until you’re incapacitated to designate a health care surrogate under the Federal HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) which will give your surrogate immediate access to your medical records, medical history, billing and any other information related to your medical care.

Thank God for Music What’s happening, OMG! readers? How’s the south Florida weather going for you (since spring break started early for some of us out there)? I notice the music is getting better, since the year started out just "okay." Only seldom do I keep hearing the same song being played over and over. Don’t get me wrong, when a good-ass song has a beat booming into your ears and the bass is just going, you intend to repeat it. One of the songs I enjoy jamming to is “Sexy Bitch" from Akon featuring David Guetta. As soon as that house beat comes on, a lot of females go a little wild, and it sets the blood rushing. Sure as hell enough, you’re on the dance floor holding your drink in one hand and a camera in the other.

A few of my friends and the people I’m acquaintances with, we get picky with the clubs because of the music choices being overplayed, and it sadly makes our rating of the club go down. Sorry to admit but it’s true. If we want to hear loud beats or a hip-hop mix with house music put together with reggaeton, we'll go to that club and seriously have the best night, dancing and having a few drinks in our system. A lot of the local residents like to stay in a close range where the "good clubs" are easy to get to and back. Exploring other clubs outside of the county is the best thing I like to do with my close friends.

I’ve been visiting Miami a lot than I ever have in my whole life, it’s been years since I left "the M.I.A." and their music is off this planet, meaning I don’t hear the same shit over and over. The stations that these DJs play are better than what I’ve heard in forever.

If you’re into hip-hop, house music, remixes of old R&B, top genre reggaeton or bachata, you might want to take a trip down to the 305 and the 786. I have to give props to Daddy Yankee, Wisin y Yandel, Nicki Minaj, Gucci Mane, who all have come out this year with the sickest jams, and Usher with the best hip-hop and R&B music. I don’t know about the rest of the musical genres such as pop or country...I can’t vibe or jam to that. Oh, and let’s not also forget crazy rock screaming; I have no step moves for that! Lol!

We all have different tastes and most of the time it depends on the mood we’re in. There are days where I can’t go without music tuning out the noise around me, so I don't have to hear people yap or cars blowing their horns or the idiot who keeps yelling, "Hey mama!" Time to put those headphones on.

Thank God for music.

W

hat is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “Canada”? I am betting that the people most unfamiliar with our neighboring country would automatically think of maple syrup, moose, or Celine Dion. However, Canada is the second-largest country in the world by area, and is home to Toronto, one of the most multicultural cities in the world.

ABOUT TORONTO: With a population of 2.5 million (5.5 million in the Greater Toronto area), Toronto is often referred to as a smaller and cleaner New York. It is one of the safest large metropolitan areas in North America as rated by Places Rated Almanac, and has become a filming hot spot for television and movies due to inexpensive production costs. It is home to the CN Tower, the tallest free-standing structure in North America (even taller than Chicago’s Willis Tower) and was the tallest structure in the world from 1975 to 2006. Toronto Pride, at the end of June, is the third largest gay pride celebration in the world and is the largest in North America, attracting over 1.4

million people each year. Toronto will be the host city for WorldPride in 2014.

TRAVEL: My first travel suggestion to anyone embarking on their virgin voyage to Toronto: (1) fly into Buffalo International Airport in Buffalo, New York, (2) rent a car at the Buffalo airport that you can drop off in Toronto, (3) drive the Niagara Falls route from Buffalo to Toronto, (4) drop rental car off in Toronto and enjoy the public transit system to navigate around the city, and (5) fly out of Toronto back to your home destination. It will take less than two hours for anyone to drive from Buffalo’s airport through US Customs & Border Protection, to Niagara Falls, and then to Toronto.

The breathtakingly grand scope of Niagara Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world, should be enough incentive to convert the first two hours of your Toronto experience into a mini-road trip. Also, it is very unnecessary to have a rental car around while in Toronto.

There are an abundance of taxis available to drive you from Point A to Point B, along with a convenient subway system, not to mention that the daily parking fees for a rental car can be outrageous at times.

ACCOMODATIONS: The Bond Place Hotel, located at 65 Dundas Streeet East in the heart of downtown, is the most affordable and centrally-located hotel in Toronto's center. Choosing this option will give you a very spacious room at $99 US/night, and will also grant you walking distance to the Toron-

to Eaton Centre, which is located directly across the street. The Toronto Eaton Centre is one of Canada's largest malls, offering over 230 shops, restaurants, eateries and more. The Toronto Theatre district is also within a short walking distance. If you are seeking a more intimate hotel stay, check in to Hotel Victoria, located at 56 Yonge Street in downtown. Hotel Victoria is situated in the financial district of Toronto, close to Union Station and such major attractions as The CN Tower and Waterfront Harbour.

For an upscale hotel chain, there is always The Westin Harbour Castle located at 1 Harbour Square. Ask for a scenic room with windows overlooking Lake Ontario and The CN Tower, and order from their endless room service menu.

DINING: Two local restaurant chains that continually impressed me very much are Richtree Market Restaurants and Spring Rolls. Richtree Market Restaurants have convenient locations in the Toronto Eaton Centre and College Park. The restaurant is set up as a gigantic à la carte buffet-style cafeteria offering such delicious dishes as rösti, a Swiss dish mainly consisting of potatoes, baked pasta gratin, and numerous pizza and salad entrees.

There are also plenty of various soups, sandwiches, desserts and homemade ice creams to choose from. Spring Rolls could be considered Toronto’s version of PF Chang's, offering fine pan-Asian

cuisine such as vermicelli noodle and rice bowl dishes along with dim sum. The house spring rolls are a must, which consist of tiger shrimp, chicken, taro and shiitake mushrooms. There are two great Spring Rolls locations at 40 Dundas Street West and 240 Queens Street West. Looking for more authentic cuisine? No large city is complete without its own Chinatown. Toronto’s Chinatown is located downtown between Dundas Street West and Spadina Avenue. For those late night diners, look no further than Hair of the Dog, which is open until 2 a.m. and is located at 425 Church Street in Church and Wellesley, Toronto's gay village area. Breakfast items, seafood dishes and Asianinspired entrees are some of the many selections on the menu at this downtown hotspot.

SHOPPING: Besides the Toronto Eaton Centre, those looking to open their wallets should take advantage of PATH. PATH is the largest underground shopping complex as listed by the Guiness Book of World Records. Boasting over 16 miles of shopping, services and entertainment, PATH offers over 1,200 shops and services and employs 5,000 individuals. PATH connects underground through Toronto’s subway system and links to 50 buildings, 20 parking garages, five subway stations, two major department stores and six major hotels. It is also the site of the world’s largest underground sidewalk sale. Be sure to also check out the Fashion District, located near Chinatown on Spadina Avenue, and the trendy Queen Street West Shopping District, where shoppers can find the best in edgy and hip fashions.

NIGHTLIFE: The popular Showtime series, Queer as Folk, filmed in Toronto from 2000 to 2005. Two locations in the show are still the late

night hot spots to go to. Woody’s, located in the heart of Church and Wellesley at 465 Church Street, is a large and cavernous complex with five bars. It is a more low key atmosphere compared to Fly Nightclub.

Fly Nightclub, Club Babylon from Queer as Folk, is the place to be on Friday nights. Located at 8 Gloucester Street, this nightclub offers the best in dance and pop music, and offers a multi-level nightclub experience and stage shows. On Saturday nights, I personally love going to The Guvernment, located at 132 Queens Quay East in the heart of downtown Toronto’s waterfront.

Billed as an entertainment complex, this nightclub is gigantic.

There are multiple rooms such as The Orange Room and The Drink which overlooks a view of the main room’s dance floor which can only be described as a veritable "sea of people" dancing to the best in house and dance music. If the nightclub scene is not your thing, Toronto’s Theatre District is a miniBroadway region where visitors can see the best in stage at one of the many theatres such as the Royal Alexandra, Panasonic and Princess of Wales. The Air Canada Centre, located at 40 Bay Street, is the sports and entertainment venue home to Toronto’s Maple Leafs hockey, Raptors basketball and Toronto Rock Lacrosse teams. Popular recording artists such as Madonna, Kylie Minogue and Lady Gaga have all performed at this venue.

For more information on Toronto, please visit www.toronto.ca.

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BOARDWALK 8 1721 N. Andrews Ave. (954) 463-6969 9 COZMOS 2674 E. Oakland Pk Blvd 954-616-8239 CLUB OZ 2674 E Oakland ParkBlvd.

(954) 616-8239 10 THE DEPOT 1243 N.E. 11th Ave. (954) 568-7777 JOHNNY’S BAR/ 11 11 NIGHT CLUB 1116 West Broward Blvd (954) 522-5931 12 LIVING ROOM 300 SW 1st Ave. (888) 992-7555

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

FT. LAUDERDALE CLUBS

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 BUSINESSES CLUB FT. LAUDERDALE 110 NW 5th Ave. (954) 525-3344 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. 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

D>R P>LM CLUBS/BARS

INNS/GUESTHOUSES

ASSOCIATIONS

Mar 20 - Apr 19 If you wanna be my lover, you better not get with my friends! This isn't Dynasty, it isn't cute to know your boy has slept with all 500 boys in the club.

Take a cold shower and think twice before you get your ho on or you'll be on Maury soon enough.

Sept 22 - Oct 22 You're usually so good at conversation, Libra, so why are you stuttering like a Justin Bieber song? "Baby, baby, baby, ohhh, like, baby, baby, baby, nooo..."

Count to three and compose yourself, then start over. You can't attract a guy sounding like you're a 12-year-old boy unless you're in a church, honey!

Apr 20 - May 19 When Stevie Wonder sang about the sunshine of his life, he wasn't talking about fake bake. I'm not saying go completely pasty or anything, but you may want to rethink your tanning bills considering YOU LIVE IN FLORIDA. You don't want to be broke AND a joke, do you?

Oct 23 - Nov 21 Scorpios are fiery as hell and they charge through life wearing a Tina Turner-esque sequined red dress and matching fuck-me pumps. Find a balance and don't run over everyone in your path, or you'll mess with the wrong bitch and end up rollin' on the river. Even Scorpios aren't invincible!

May 20 - Jun 20 Do you wake up in the morning feeling like P. Diddy? Do you brush your teeth with a bottle of Jack? Then you need to stop your spending spree and detox for a bit. Ke$ha looks like she smells like garbage for a reason. It's not chic, it's disgusting...and no way to pick up men!

Nov 22 - Dec 21 If you could turn back time, what heinous wrongs would you fix? Even though Cher knows how to sell a hit song, she knows just as well as you do that the past is the past. Look forward and learn from those past mistakes so your future ends up more like "I Found Someone" and not "We All Sleep Alone."

Jun 21 - Jul 21 Love me, love me, say that you love me!

This is the perfect time to jump into a brightly-colored Cardigans "Lovefool" kind of romance (except yours should end well). It's a time for you two where you both are pretty and happy and you can't care 'bout anything but them. Enjoy!

Dec 22 - Jan 19 So I see you have your eye on a dancing queen, young and sweet, only...seventeen?! Put the brakes on that Volvo, honey! They may be a bit more sexually free in Sweden, the land of ABBA, but in the good old U.S. of A, you'll be carted off and charged with statutory. Don't do the chiquitita with that jailbait, Fernando!

Jul 22 - Aug 22 When you cut Leona Lewis open, she bleeds love. When you cut someone else open, you get a one-way ticket to the big house. Rethink your violent nature, lion, and put the claws away, because no matter what Miss Leona tells you, violence and heartbreak do not end in a glory note in the whistle register.

Jan 20 - Feb 17 Feeling like your life is as humdrum and pointless as a nine-minute Celine Dion ballad? We all have nights where the wind was so cold. Reconnect with your old friends and put yourself in new situations. The marriage of familiar with unfamiliar will go as smoothly as Celine's with her grandpa-husband, which is to say, very smooth indeed.

Aug 23 - Sept 21 Yo, Virgo, I'm really happy for you, and I'mma let you finish, but everyone else in the horoscope section is having the best March of ALL TIME! Pull yourself together and take some time out for some peaceful reflection, and then you'll know why you're having problems...apart from Kanye stealing your mic away!

Feb 18 - Mar 19 If you liked it, then you should have put a ring on it? Girl, please. BeyoncĂŠ only sang the praises of marriage after she got herself a man, so she is now considered the enemy. You know what works for you, so find your OWN happiness, whether you got the ring on it or not. Although...I'd be happy if I had Jay-Z's money too!

Note: precise dates vary slightly from year to year, and from source to source. These are not meant to be definitive.

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