OMG! Magazine V2 Issue 9 by OMG! Magazine

OMG 1

OMG 2

OMG 3

OMG 4

OMG 5

Dear OMG! Readers, Singer/songwriter & Atlanta native Barry Brandon is this issue's OMG! cover boy. Barry Brandon represents the direction OMG! is taking with upcoming shows and performances happening in Florida, Atlanta and the Big Apple. All three locations are current and future stops on OMG! Magazine's quest for media domination. You can catch Barry Brandon on Friday, May 21 at My Sister's Room in East Atlanta, GA, on Saturday, May 22 at The Palladium Theatre and on Sunday, May 23 at Club Nautico, both latter venues in St Petersburg, FL. August 6 will find the entertainer performing at The Duplex in NYC. Check out the talented singer's music at www. myspace.com/BarryBrandonsMusic. Finally, yours truly will be in New York City next month so stay tuned for photos and scoop on my adventures in the city of cities. Hope you all are enjoying this weather! Yours,

Okie

Okesene Tilo, Executive Editor

OMG 6

OMG 8

OMG 9

WRITTEN By Maggie Harbour

hat do Kate Hudson and Christina Aguilera have in common? They both like to run around in the buff! Hudson, 31, says she was brought up in a house where Mom Goldie Hawn and her partner Kurt Russell always ran around naked, so she has no qualms when it comes to going au natural. And 29 year old Christina admits she and hubby Jordan Bratman have set aside Sundays as their special time to go naked, so their two year old son Max will grow up not being ashamed of his body. All I can say is the cops better be on the lookout for prying peeping Toms who hope to catch a glimpse of the two gorgeous gals in their birthday suits!

ongratulations to INVICTUS star Matt Damon, 39, and his wife Luciana Barroso, who are expecting their fourth child! The Miami Beach residents have two daughters together, Isabella 4, and 1 ½ year old Gia, and they are raising Luciana’s daughter Alexia, from a previous relationship. Now the actor and his gorgeous 34 year old wife are hoping to buy blue. Damon, a huge Red Sox fan, says adding a son to the mix, to help him cheer on his favorite team, would make a perfect addition to the family!

id you know pop singer Rihanna didn’t always wear five inch heels? Fact is she used to wear combat boots! The 22 year old Caribbean singer was once a cadet in the Sub – Military program on the island of Barbados. And sexy singer/songwriter Shontelle was her drill Sergeant! Can you imagine being the lucky enemy combatant to be wrestled to the ground by those two bodacious babes?

ey, guess how much designer Donatella Versace is willing to pay you to be her intern for the summer? Nothing. Nada. In fact, she wants you to pay her! Yep… the designing diva is asking a whopping $20,000 for the privilege of learning the ropes from the best. But don’t despair; she is willing to sweeten the pot with a t-shirt and a signed bottle of her signature perfume. Now that’s more like it, don’t you think?

OMG 10

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!

nd guys… someone needs to keep an eye on Octomom Nadya Suleman, to make sure she’s keeping a closer eye on her 14 kids! A newly released video that popped up on TMZ, shows the 34 year old mom of many, yakking away on the telephone while her 3 year old daughter Calyssa jumps up and down on her tiny baby brother Noah. And although Suleman finally rescues the poor screaming tot and gives the toddler a much needed time out, the gossip web site received lots of comments from viewers who felt somebody ought to call CPS and yank those kids out of that mad house. But so far, no one has stepped in to rescue Noah, or any of his 13 siblings from the tentacles of the stressed out Octomom.

icole Richie and her top - pop Lionel are at odds over her upcoming wedding to baby daddy times 2, Joel Madden. While Nicole and Joel prefer a quiet, intimate wedding with only a few friends and family present, Lionel is making plans for a celebration that will look more like the MTV AWARDS, than a garden soiree. The Dancing on the Ceiling singer has an all - star line up in mind that includes such super - star entertainers as 50 Cent, Rihanna, Tina Turner and Mariah Carey. He says he’s waited so long for his daughter to tie the knot to her Good Charlotte hubby that he wants to go all out and make it a moment they will all remember. Stay tuned.

nd while Nicole and Joel definitely are planning a walk down the aisle, don’t bet your booty on Brangelina taking the plunge. Despite the fact the gossip mags are all proclaiming the upcoming nuptials of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, according to a source, they are so busy working on films and raising their kids, that the last thing on their minds is a wedding. “It’s true that Brad and Angie have grown closer during their time together in Venice, where Angie is filming The Tourist,” says a source. “They are staying in one of the most romantic cities in the world, so they can’t help but feel the romance. In fact, they’ve taken to slipping out the back door of their villa in the middle of the night while the Paparazzi are asleep, in order to spend a little quiet time together. “As a kid, Angie loved the film A Little Romance with Diane Lane, which was filmed in Venice,” adds the source, “so walking arm and arm through the city in the wee hours of the morning makes her feel like she’s living the sweet romantic tale.”And while a little romance is certainly in the air for the super couple, Angie insists they don’t need a signed piece of paper to feel like a family with their six kids.

o listen up Dawgs… you don’t approve of 4 year old Suri Cruise continuing to drink from a baby bottle, or 4 year old Zahara Jolie – Pitt dragging along her little white blankie when she goes out. And you’re sure Britney’s 3 ½ year old son Jayden James is too old to be sucking on a pacifier… but what would you say if I told you 49 year old George Clooney, still longs for his blankie??? According to a source, the Up in The Air star doesn’t go anywhere without his cashmere blanket! While filming his current project, The Descendant, in Honolulu, Clooney insisted maids at the Kahala Hotel make up his bed every morning with his special blanket. And when he checked out of the hotel – and forgot his security blanket - he asked the hotel to pack it up and send it on to his next location. Just can’t decide, is that cute… or creepy? OMG 11

OMG 12

OMG 13

Hit the Beach with Style

breath and you go to make a run for it. Seconds away from making your big splash, one of your friends spots and stops you in motion just to ask, “Girl, didn’t you wear those last year?” WaWaWa. Don’t let this happen to you. You must be prepared just in case any more waves crash into you.

Fashion

inally! Let the fun in the sun begin. It feels so good to drive with the windows down, the wind blowing in your face, the sunroof wide open, smelling the salt in the water as you’re racing across the bridge to get to the gulf. One last stop at the 7-Eleven for any last minute necessities and now the hunt for parking begins, but who cares? You are only moments away from making your summer debut on that white sandy beach. As you make your approach with cooler and lawn chair in hand, you make your visual assesement of the waterfront real estate you want to temporary occupy for the day. Once you commit to your prime location, the umbrella goes up, you take a deep OMG 14

Set the tone of your summer look at the beach with a great set of swim trunks. That is the first thing people will notice when you step back on to the beach, because it is the most fabric you’ll be wearing that day. Black and navy are boring for the beach so in the spirit of the season, go for bright colors and exotic prints. Let the stars of COPS wear the U-neck ribbed tank tops commonly known as the offensive term “wife beater”. Sleeveless T-shirts, also called muscle shirts, are all over this season. My favorites are the ones that have a hood and drawstring. Stay with solid colors so you can match your trunks. If you want to show off that body you been working on all spring or just full

of confidence, then let them have it with a mesh T-shirt. Working our way down, you are going to need some open-toed shoes. You can wear flip flops, also called thongs, sandals and slides. Flips flops have a flat sole and Y-shaped strap between the big and second toe and actually make that flip flop sound when you walk. While fashionable, there’s virtually no support at the ankle. Sandals were brought to the fashion forefront by the Egyptians and the Greeks. The straps of the sandals go around the ankle and over the instep of the foot and held in place by the sole. Slides often confused with mules or lounges are a backless shoe that slip on and off, have a strap(s) across the center top and feature an open toe. Plastic or rubber only. Please, no leather at the beach. Don’t forget your sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, beach towel, oh and quarters for the meter! Have fun, be safe and shuﬄe your feet. May the Fierce be with you!

BIG GUNS AND OTHER ATTRACTIONS

In Key West there’s a lot of people to do and things to see. Make some history of your own and find out why we’ve been voted Favorite Gay Resort Town by Out Traveler.

fla-keys.com/gaykeywest ~ 1-866-848-9362 OMG 15

CWPD

OMG 16

OMG 17

OMG 18

OMG 19

OMG 20

OMG 21

Ever participate in a messy breakup with someone you didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know very well because you were instantly infatuated and immediately dived into a relationship? strategized dating is a 3 pronged approach to finding a relationship. the program takes roughly three months to complete and has no nasty side effects like irreversible incontinence or late night drunk texts.

Month #1: option exploration

Month #2: Target identification

Month #3: relationshiprocation

Assess your prospects by asking out all the people in which you even have a modicum of interest. Go on casual dates, group outings and talk online. Spread yourself thin and play the field. This step may end in friendship, a fling or a knife fight. Only the strongest survive to the next level.

Evaluate the candidates in your life and narrow it down to 1-3. Get to know these prospects better by opening up a bit more. Share childhood stories, go on private dates and get intimate (if you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t already). Give serious thought to compatibility, potential for longevity, and important issues like trust levels and if they smack their food when they eat.

Make an informed decision on which candidate is best suited for a relationship. Dump the others. Draft up an exclusivity contract and make them sign in blood. If content that after 3 months you are getting to know each other and are on the track to falling in love, let go of your reservations. Stop thinking about things so much and just enjoy whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in front (or behind or under or on top) of you.

trust that these 3 months worth of steps wil help you find that special relationship! OMG 22

OMG 23

OMG 24

OMG 25

OMG 26

OMG 27

hen reviewing restaurants, I try to shy away from terms like: “hip”, “cool”, and “trendy.” Often times, these words can be overplayed and misused in labeling a restaurant’s true style and flavor. However, this time I take exception with Ella’s Americana Folk Art Café located at 5119 N. Nebraska Avenue in the charming Seminole Heights area of Tampa, Florida. It is indeed hip, cool and very trendy! Yes it is true, that the economy maybe dragging elsewhere in the city, but you won’t find that talisman in the Seminole Heights district. Here you will find a pack of creative and brave restaurants bolting upright just north of downtown Tampa, weathering the economic storm consuming the city and fast attracting loyal crowds with such eateries as Cappy’s Pizza, the newly opened Refinery, the Taco Bus, and Ella’s to name a few. Ella’s is a fun, funky Southern-gourmet enclave with a hipster social scene that has managed to bring a little slice of House of Blues flavor to our local restaurant market. Ella’s is the brainchild of Ernie Locke and Melissa Deming who moved to Seminole OMG 28

Heights in 2001 via Kansas City. Locke and Deming wanted to showcase a space in town that married folk art, relaxed comfort food and great music. Tampa’s city zoning oﬃce wanted nothing to do with this idea at first. So with the support of Deming’s parents, who own a construction firm in town and the support of the neighborhood association backing them, they sat out on the adventure of building a sound structure from the ground up. The new restaurant may give you the impression that it’s a tiny, funky place with a few tables and a lot of art, but it’s so much more. Its pizza, burgers, custom made soups and salads, chicken, fish and pork that will satisfy any connoisseur’s palate! Lumbering into Ella’s one Friday night to grab a bite before heading out to Ybor City for a night on the town I didn’t expect much, but the Curried apple and Carrot bisque ($6) changed my mind immediately! Instantly, there was an explosion of flavor, the Ernie original reflects his sense of having fun in the kitchen creating unique dishes that reflect his creative personality and love of food. The bisque had a warm

glow similar to a fresh October apple cider and a smart blend of carrot, that keep me coming back for spoonful after spoonful. This starter was tasty and certainly satisfying. I also recommend the Deviled Crabs ($8) which isn’t Crab with a K by any means! Lightly breaded and well seasoned, this savory dish is served with a side of homemade cocktail sauce laced with just the right amount of horseradish offering a nice Cajun style kick to the appetizer. Two popular dishes that we just had to try included “the badd.” This burger, ($11 - and yes they call it the “Badd”) proved so compelling that I had to eat the whole thing. At Ella’s, all burgers come from 100% organic raised Angus Beef and the Badd is cooked to order, topped with fresh roasted red pepper, goat cheese and roasted garlic aioli. This Badd-boy comes with a side of homemade sweet potato fries cooked to perfection – crispy and slightly seasoned! My other half, being more of a “meat and potatoes” man tried ella’s Filet Medallions ($22). Three succulent asiago encrusted beef tenderloins cooked to order and melted in the mouth were served with beurre

rouge sauce (made from pan drippings, red wine, shallots, vinegar and cold butter), and complimented with a goat cheese mashed potato cake and fresh steamed vegetable of the day. Ernie’s menu success has brought a new dimension to Americana cuisine in Tampa! Any menu selection can be paired with Ella’s varied wine and beer list, the mix so eclectic that they seem to have been chosen for wacky names as much as the impressive flavor. No meal would be complete without dessert and might I suggest the Chocolate Sambuca tart, ($7) a rich dark chocolate tart paired with a Sambuca drizzle that offers just the right amount of licorice flavor to a bittersweet tart. I must admit, this is an unusual combo, but perfectly executed and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth in town. If you’re gusty and not afraid to take a risk might I suggest the fresh-from-the-fryer Chocolate bacon ($5). Yes, chocolate bacon that’s blistering hot, not too sweet with just a faint flavor of fried pork. It is an amazing Cajun style desert that seals your dining experience with an American style kiss! Finally, seating at Ella’s can sometimes be a challenge. This hip dining spot usually averages a 30 minute or more table wait time on busy nights. But what I found to be an unexpected surprise was the outside deck wrapped

around two sides of the restaurant and hugging a huge oak tree. You can even bring Fido with you if you keep him on a leash! Ella’s showcases true Southern flavor and hospitality on Sundays which even features a special menu called “Soul Food Sunday” serving BBQ delights. In true New Orleans style, Sundays at Ella’s features live bluegrass entertainment and a massive brunch featuring Green Eggs and Ham (pesto that is…), plus heaping plates of biscuits and gravy, Cuban toast, Funky Monkey pancakes with Nutella and banana, and a true southern treat: Fried Chicken and Waﬄes – chicken served on a Belgian waﬄe with bourbon maple gravy. Ella’s, nestled in the heart of Seminole Heights is a hot spot for the locals and serves Tampa’s diverse population. In the end, Ella’s is just plain fun food done well! Bon Appetite Y’all! Ella’s Americana Folk Art Café WHere: 5119 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa HourS: 5 to 11pm Tuesday through Thursday, 5 pm to midnight Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday; closed Monday CreDiT CarDS: All major reSerVaTioNS: No CHiLDreN’S MeNu: Yes aLCoHoL: Beer and wine WHeeLCHair aCCeSS: Yes PriCe: Entrees range from $12 to $22 CaLL: (813) 234-1000 OMG 29

OMG 30

OMG 31

OMG 32

OMG 33

Tasting Tampa Bay n today’s day and times, we have

been blessed to have great people come before us whom have fought, marched and protested just so some of us can vogue it up on the dance floor and marry who we choose. If you really think about what the Ybor City district of Tampa, Florida was like five years ago or more, you will know that there wasn’t a mere thought of any queens setting foot on soil in Ybor City. Since then Ybor (now referred to as GaYbor in some circles) has blossomed into one of the country’s progressive gay ghettos. Unfortunately, even though places like Boys Town in Chicago or Castro in San Francisco create a safe haven; the reliance upon these areas inhibits some to think outside of their rainbow psyches. Considering I’ve been sipping the scene for what seems like eons, I sometimes like to baptize myself in diverse environments. Besides after years of dealing with sissies, I sometimes have to detoxify my mind from the pessimistic production that sometimes

OMG 34

plagues our community. There are plenty of wonderful genres occurring around our area that don’t necessarily involve a drag show or screen names. In fact, we often (as I am just as culpable) never think to venture or explore humanity let alone outside the beaten path. Given that we are living in a world where earthquakes are as common as rain showers and tomorrow is not promised. I decided its time to seize the day.

MACAV A couple weeks ago, I decided to trek to the new Tampa Bay Museum of Art. Thinking I was just going to check out my charming friend Greg’s lyrical ballet performance out front of the museum, l was shocked to see the result of what our city had been working on for a year and a half. The Curtis Hixon Park, adjacent to the new museum has received a major new facelift. A beautiful space with fountains, open grassy areas perfect for a cute jaunt with a significant other along with brand

new seating areas with restrooms and a play area for kids and dogs are all inviting, yet so artistically revolutionary, you’re almost hesitant to partake. At night fall, coupled with lit fountains and a riverwalk, the LED art on the side of the museum adds a touch of elegance perfect for a romantic stroll through the park. Some of the art inside the museum pales in comparison to the metallic geometric structure itself. On entry, a giant mobile hanging whimsically welcomes you as a glass framed staircase attracts you up stairs to view everything from photography, paintings, digital design to modern art. If the rotating featured artist of the moment doesn’t raise your brow then the modern art piece, a life size bathroom made out of chicken wire is certainly worth the attention. After speaking with the President of the new museum, there are even plans to have outdoor concerts that connect both the park and museums. Paired with the Glaser’s Children’s Museum opening in the fall, this new area is clearly the gateway to becoming the art district in Tampa.

VITI

Trust! If you need to clear your mind, there is nothing but inspirational space and opportunity waiting. However as a side note, seeing how the park is just across the riverbed from University of Tampa, I can foresee how some of you “cunning cruisers” would attempt to turn this locale into tomorrow’s downtown get down. In this case, let’s hope history doesn’t repeat itself. Sip and Stroll I decided to pull some strings for tickets to the annual Taste the Best of Tampa Bay held at the David A. Straz Center (formerly the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center.) This annual event is where 50 of Tampa Bay’s favorite landmark restaurants, such as the historic Columbia and Oystercatchers, dish up their award-winning culinary delights to hungry crowds. In case you’ve never caught wind of this soiree; it is the see and be-seen

for the foodie in us all. By the way, did I mention there are open bars all through out the entire venue? (Yes m’am!) Of course to make this stellar event that much more pleasurable, I summoned some of my best alcohol enthused acquaintances. Sporting our best boot cuts with a button down looks, we raced the sunset to assure our early arrival. Never to be bashful toward the booze, we all kissed a couple familiar faces and found a Latin bartending daddy with a heavy hand. His hand was so heavy that before the first hour, after at least three trips, we became his personal production company encouraging everyone within ear shot to sip his sauce. After jumpin’ from booth to booth and drinking enough petrol to fly a plane, we introduced ourselves to some tangerine “Pussycat Dolls” who sequestered us for a little gay advice. Of course by this time we were so footloose, Stevie Wonder could see flames shooting from our heels. Although, I’m sure our roaming eyes checking out all the hot dads may have given us away. Or was it the fact that we outshined the entertainment on the stage? At that point, it didn’t matter as we rubbed elbows with gays, straights, the rich, the poor, the tipsy, and tipped over. Needless to say, I ate and drank so much I think I had stretch marks on my shoes. Yesssss Miss Honey, this was definitely going to go down on the books as an epic evening. As we (like you didn’t know) arrived at Gbar, I kept thinking to myself, “Maybe if other gays thought outside of their normal frame of thinking, maybe that might change not only our perspective but the worlds around us as well. Maybe one day we won’t need GaYborhoods to live life just as freely as our straight counterparts. Maybe we can stand up, embrace one another (despite online profiles) and not judge ourselves through someone else’s eyes.” But until then bitch you can best believe if you mind wonders… let it lead you here. OMG 35

OMG 36

OMG 37

CWPD

OMG 38

OMG 39

As a massage aficionado, you may already know of the wonderful benefits of therapeutic touch. You may have already tried one or two variations of massage & bodyworks as you have meandered along the path of complimentary healthcare. That experience in mind, did you know that there are at least 250 kinds of therapies classified in the ever growing massage & bodyworks world? Treatments like Acupressure, Zero Balancing and a multitude of modalities in between. In this edition of Mind, Body and Spirit, we will look at some of these modalities in greater detail. Swedish Massage: (the traditional side of massage & bodywork) It’s hard to put an exact date on when touch was first used for healing purposes. Obviously, touch has been around since the dawn of time. We swaddle our young, hold our injuries to comfort ourselves and rub our own aches and pains just as our predecessors did at the dawn of civilization. It has been recorded that the Ancient Greeks had a fond affection for massage as did their counterparts the Romans. History shows us that the Greek physician Hippocrates (500 BC) touted that the way to excellent health was through DAILY baths and massage. A more current view of massage & bodywork was established by Sweden’s Henrik OMG 40

Ling, who in the mid 18th century was the first to combine massage and gymnastics into a regimen called the Swedish Movement Cure. John Harvey Kellogg (of the Kellogg’s cereal family in the early 19th century) later established a fitness protocol at his Battle Creek Sanitarium that included a heavy use of massage & bodywork. Kellogg’s Sanitarium was the forerunner to our modern Day Spa. To this day, Kellogg’s book The Art of Massage is still used to educate potential massage therapists. Massage now reaches the masses in overwhelming numbers, over 200 million sessions annually as reported by the Association of Massage and Bodywork Professionals. Touted as the most popular treatment at spas worldwide, Swedish massage is now the ambassador for

healthy therapeutic touch. When you look at the well-rooted traditional side of massage & bodywork, one should also include deep tissue work, infant massage, medical massage and sports massage to name but a few of the modalities that can be classified as traditional modalities. asian Therapies: As one of the oldest braches of massage & bodywork, Asian therapies find their roots in the early Eastern traditions. Some of the first documentation of massage came around 2700 BC, found in a Chinese medical document entitled Huang Di Nei Jing Su Wen, which roughly translated means “massage of skin and flesh.” Traditional Chinese medicine, acupressure, shiatsu, amma massage, lomi-lomi and jin shin jyutsu are just a few of the Asian therapies. indian Therapies: There are numerous health traditions arising from the Indian culture. Ayurveda being the most popular used modality outside of India. Ayurveda helps one find balance and restoration, the ancient practice of yoga works to unify both the mind and body with the spirit. Ayurveda has been passed from generation to generation and is still taught in India in conjunction with Western Medical training. Ayurveda, as India’s traditional medical system – practiced for more than 5000 years, is a multidisciplinary approach to health. It encompasses diet, medicinal herbs, lifestyle changes and a combination of oils and massage. The success behind ayurvedic mas-

sage is that with a thorough understanding of the five natural elements (air, fire, water, earth and ether, the most subtle of the 5 elements which is the space the other elements fill) coupled with an understanding of the 3 basic constitutional types (vata, pitta and kapha) and ayurvedic massage provide the detoxification and rejuvenation process called pancha karma. Incorporate all this knowledge along with the therapist’s ability to work a client’s chakras (the seven major energy centers found throughout the body that act as focal points for one’s life force) and you have the ingredients for a successful ayurvedic massage session. This is part one of a two-part series exploring the vast work of massage & bodywork modalities. In the next MBS column we will look at Energy Work, Myofascial Release (the fascia is the soft tissue component of the connective tissue), Movement Re-education and Mind/Body Therapies. Another way to connect your mind and body is through Massage Therapy! Give yourself the gift of happiness today with a massage at TAMPAPROMASSAGE. At TAMPAPROMASSAGE, I offer quality affordable massages on your terms. For more information or to schedule your appointment, call (813) 368-0532 or check out my website at www.TAMPAPROMASSAGE.com. So until next time…

OMG 41

A Day of Remembrance

Harvey May 22nd, 2010

7:00 PM

MILK Special Sale Prices on Merchandise and Tickets

Chance to Win weekend stay in various hotels or 2 night carribean cruise

Guest Speakers Romaine Patterson and Alex Nicholson Presented by:

www.standupflorida.org/harvey-milk-dinner.html OMG 42

OMG 43

OMG 44

OMG 45

OMG 46

Photo by: Goran Jovanovic

icture this: electro pop music, an unscripted and uncensored cabaret full of original music, acoustic musical performances, a documentary on surviving open-heart surgeries and the beginnings of a non profit organization; now can you imagine all this combined into one person? If you could, it would come in to form as the wonder kid: Barry Brandon. Barry Brandon has been singing and making people laugh ever since he could remember. Singing and comedy is already a multi-tasking feat on it own, now add the load of undergoing and recovering from 8 different open-heart surgeries. Exhausted? He isn’t. Like the energizer bunny, Barry keeps moving, except he is even more colorful. Brandon is now touring the East Coast with his one-man show (two-man show if you include his best friend, singer and songwriter Jose Luis Rodriguez). This show began in June of 2009 and since then has bulldozed its way to showing in 8 different cities and counting. “To think that this started from the small documentary, ‘The Tin Man Project,’ is amazing to me. I wanted to show the trials of my experiences with my 8th heart surgery with humor, music and a zest for life. I never thought it would translate in to such a successful tour,” says Brandon. His touring show, “In My Own Words” is just like his heart, the engine that just won’t give up. The audience response has kept the show alive and flourishing like the passion and drive that has kept Barry’s heart beating to this day. He states, “It’s strange actually because there are people that have seen the show 4, 5 and 6 times. Because the show is unscripted and uncensored, it’s never quite the same therefore you get to take away something different each and every time you see it. I take that as such a compliment in the highest regard! And the fact that people sing along to the music. It’s just so rewarding to hear that we are inspiring people in such a way.” A project near and dear to Barry’s heart (no pun intended) is his non-profit organization The Heart Foundation. Leaving the medical aspect of heart complications to the doctors, this truly multi-dimensional artist focuses his organization on the emotional, personal and financial struggles that patients of heart surgery have to endure. Medical bills for heart procedures are megalithic; the foundation focuses on providing financial aid to the family and friends of heart surgery patients trying to care for their loved ones during times OMG 47

of need. “I wanted to create a way to provide family members and friends money for food and toiletries while they stay in the hospital; I also wanted to assist in airfare for patients and those dear to them when traveling to embark on heart surgery, something I know from personal experience to be frightening,” says Barry summing up the goal of his non-profit project. “The Heart Foundation serves as a metaphorical shoulder to cry on during the crisis of dealing with heart surgeries,” he finalizes. In addition to the music scene and his charity, Barry Brandon is a force to be reckoned with in Atlanta with promotions and events. This firestorm of talent and energy (caffeine any one?) is attempting to enhance Atlanta’s nightlife and artist scene. He is currently the host and promoter of three monthly events: Etcetera!, Who?, and Bedlam. Etcetera! is a showcase focusing on up-and-coming visual artists in the Atlanta area, blending art gazing with cocktail lounging. Who?, held at My Sister’s Room, is a live performance night featuring both local and national entertainers. Bedlam is a private, monthly party full of everything and everyone fabulous enough to keep up with Barry’s energy and zest for life. “The goal is to bring a sense of community while allowing an outlet for artists to gain attention and recognition through their art. No one was doing it so I just thought I should.” Barry Brandon is the snowball that rolls down the hill, picking up more and more things in its path. Just when you think his hands are full, he decides to invade iTunes and other music distributors with his five-song EP of original material entitled “Scar 2 Star”. The oﬃcial remixes for his single “ElectroGlamourous” were recently released as well. The artist that never sleeps is currently recording original material for his debut album. Additionally, he is

working an original cast recording for “In My Own Words”. “I love the fact that the music we write is out there in two forms. In one sense, you get to hear produced pop tracks and in the other you get to hear totally stripped down songs with just a piano or guitar,” he states about this project. One of the most exciting projects in Barry’s career is the BShert Film’s, headed by long-time friend Jordan Hackworth, producing of his original documentary “The Tin Man Project,” helping to expand this touching film of recovery from heart surgery to a wider market. The camera that filmed his preparation for and subsequent recovery from under the knife kept rolling, transitioning from Ft. Lauderdale and Atlanta all the way up to NYC. In a day and age where talent is mostly defined by celebrities who exhibit everything but actual talent, Barry Brandon is a reminder that true talent rests with the grassroots efforts of creating a body of work that inspires and affects others. Brandon also illustrates the pious attitude of using past experiences and good fortunes to help people in less fortunate positions than himself. When asked about plans for the future, he simply states (with excitement in his tone), “I eagerly await dahlinggggggg” You can catch Barry Brandon in St. Petersburg, FL in just a few weeks. Saturday, May 22 – “In My Own Words” Unscripted and Uncensored at The Palladium Theatre. Tickets are available now - $15 pre sale / $20 at the door. Friday, May 23 – Club Nautico – Music from “Scar 2 Star”, “ElectroGlamourous Remexes” and new unreleased material. $5 at the door, no reservations required. You can also catch him performing and hosting events in Pensacola, FL throughout Memorial Day Weekend and in Ft. Lauderdale in June. There may be some Tampa performances added during the week as well. For up to date information on additional performances and appearances, please check out: BarryBrandonsMusic.com Facebook.com/BarryBrandon Myspace.com/BarryBrandonsMusic iTunes.com/BarryBrandon to download music.

OMG 48

OMG 49

OMG 50

OMG 51

Hey yawl, It’s been a full month of fundraising in the City Beautiful and let me be the first to say THANK YOU ORLANDO for freely giving to the many local based charities. The first event to point out is Babes N Bonnets, an annual fundraiser where creative bonnets were auctioned off with all proceeds donated to the Orlando Youth Alliance. The Orlando Youth alliance does a great job of proOMG 52

viding a safe venue where local gay youth are given counseling, education and supervised recreation. Congratulations to Michael Slaymaker, Susan Unger, Michael Wanzie and yours truly for a sensational and hilarious event that raised over $3,500.00. The Orlando White Party, Runway for a Cure Fashion Show showcased 6 local designers’ Spring Collections. With a packed venue and patrons dressed in all white, this event raised over $5,000.00 for the Hope and Help Center of Central Florida; a local full service organization that provides free of charge medical, counseling and pre-

ventive services to individuals who are HIV+ and/or with AIDS. Kudos to Josh Evans, Susan Unger and yours truly for producing this spectacular event. Later that same evening, the Gucci Boys (Jorge and Thomas) gave away “The Gucci Boys Favorite Things” raﬄe where one person won the entire prize package of $6,000.00 worth of high end products and services. A huge congratulation to The Gucci Boys who raised nearly $4,000.00 for their favorite AIDS charity, the Hope and Help Center, from raﬄe ticket sales alone. Special thanks goes to Pulse Night Club,

Roxy Andrews and Angelica Sanchez for selling raﬄe tickets and especially to the fearless Footlight Player Ladies, Sassy Devine, Armani, V and yours truly for selling over $1,400.00 in raﬄe tickets. The following week, Drew Sizemore’s Broadway Heels, an evening of entertainment saluting songs of Broadway, raised $1,200.00 for AIDS Walk Orlando, a part of Team Parliament House. Continuing the Team Parliament House fundraising drive were the Real Housewives of Orange County Orlando FL: Sassy, V, Armani and yours truly. By selling Real Housewives postcards for a buck each, the girls and I raised over $1,100.00. Well done sisters! Finally on Saturday April 24 at 8am (bitter), Sassy, Armani, Jessica, Eddy and yours truly repre-

sented Team Parliament House at the annual AIDS Walk Orlando. This year garnered a record number of walkers and I hear that over $175,000.00 was raised. Wow! I want to also congratulate the Real Bitches of Orlando who raised over $20,000.00. Their group was well organized, fun, and fiercely attired! Coming up on Saturday, May 15, it’s the return of Nina Flowers to the Parliament House. If you’ve not heard of Nina Flowers, she’s the extraordinary entertainer originally from Puerto Rico who made her claim to fame on season 1 of RuPaul’s Drag Race by coming in second place. In my opinion, she should have won. Orlando loves Nina Flowers and I’m looking forward to spending a few days with her and her partner.

On Saturday May 29, JuJu Bee and Jessica Wild from season 2 of RuPaul’s Drag Race will join the nationally renowned Footlight Players for two kick-ass shows. You don’t want to miss these two dynamic entertainers! I’m sure it’s goanna be WILD! For more information on JuJu and Jessica, check out RuPaul’s Drag Race on youtube.com. That’s all for now! Next time, I’ll give you the scoop on who won the Miss Metropolitan Continental Pageant, RuPaul’s Drag Race and who’s sizzling hot in Orlando. Peace, Love, and Soul!

Ms. Darcel

OMG 53

OMG 54

here’s a mixed bag of goodies this time around. Classic Dance Diva’s, Underground bangers, sharp electro and samples galore!

Big Love – Suzanne Palmer She’s covered “Fascinated” and “Hide You”, now this little gem based on Pete Heller’s ’99 classic of the same name. The mix of choice is by Peter Rauhofer and is surprisingly good. Looks like the Austrian Circuit DJ King may be back on track and cranking out the monsters again. Dirty Talk – Wynter Gordon The featured vocalist on David Guetta’s fab “Toyfriend” breaks out on her own and blasts a neat electro offering. Laidback Luke provides the mix. The sweet harmony of her voice delivers a message of contrasting bad girl horrors. She’s definitely not an angel and wants to do some dirty things tonight. Watch out for this one… it’s contagious! Freeze – Bimbo Jones Seek out the Wicked Mix of this track. Vocalist Katherine Ellis weaves a sexy pop vision over the familiar Chris Isaak classic. Makes me wanna chase some hotbeauty down a deserted beach! Lovely stuff and perfect for early summer play. Get this now! OMG 58

2Gether – Roger Sanchez Massive party track from the S-Man. It samples vocals from the B-52’s “Love Shack” to great result. Already being played on the circuit during Winter Music Conference last month this one brings quality house back to the dancefloor. Right Here Right Now - BWO The initials stand for “Bodies Without Organs”, a group spear-headed by the artists responsible for the groups Alcazar and Army Of Lovers. Fluffy and fun this one reminds me of Gigi D’Agistino’s “I’ll Fly With You” and anything by Lucas Prada or Cascada. Go ahead… it’s OK to sing along. Wait For Me - Moby Eminem’s fave genius to bust on returns with a song that will have “EVERYONE listening to TECHNO”! It’s a brilliant Underground banger that drops into a slow female piano sonnet inspiring visions of the best of Tori Amos or Sarah McLachlan. When the chords arrive the track will move ya to tears! A little bit of heaven in a dance track.

Thanks for playing along! Remember…. “You ARE What You LISTEN To”! 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: facebook.com/myflexradio twitter.com/myflexradio Dance-House-Circuit-Tribal-Chill and more. YOUR MUSIC

DJ JOANIE

OMG 59

OMG 60

OMG 61

Dolly Parton

Dancing With The Stars finally got rid of its reality stars! The Bachelor Jake Pavelka left this week and the worlds’ most annoying mom Kate gosselin finally left last week. Thank God! Jake was great to look at and all but I must ask, “where are the stars this year on the show?” Give me some REAL stars next season. Maybe more stars would do the show if all the money went to a charity. So next year, bring me some Dolly Parton, Cyndi Lauper, Faith Hill, Rihanna, Hugh Jackman and my dream star Tina Turner. American Idol is not without criticism this year. Ellen not cutting the mustard, Simon is too nice, four judges are too much and people say the contestants are not that strong. Or has the show just run out? BTW, Dolly has been asked four times to do DWTS!

Page & Me

The club circuit in Orlando, FL has lots of news and some related to reality TV. Special guests at the Parliament House will be Jessica Wild & Jujubee from RuPaul’s Drag Race on Saturday, May 29, 2010. The winner bebe Zahara benet from RuPaul’s Drag Race season one will be the special guest at Revolution during Gay Days Weekend along with Danielle Hunter and cast. Also dur-

ing Gay Days Weekend, Hamburger Mary’s orlando will feature a Disco Sunday Brunch with me as host and a full disco show at 1:00PM. The mimosas and brunch menu are fantastic, so come out and ride a mirror ball! There was so much gossip and talk a few months back, I feel it is my duty to bring it back to front and center. I was given a personal tour of a new hot spot that I personally cannot wait to open! brian Humphries is a well-known local personality, bartender, but I like to call him a mixologist and icon in the bar scene. He invited me to tour the location for his new club, lounge, and restaurant and all I can say is WoW! I was blown away by his new place. For sure, some new history will begin at this new place called Mr. Sister’s. The design, technology, staff, music and entertainment seem to be Brian’s greatest passion and focus. He is no stranger to the club scene and I predict he will do very well indeed. Look for Mr. Sister’s to open this summer. In the meantime, please visit their website at www. mrsisters.com.

Brian Humphries

y name is Leigh Shannon and I am hoping to bring you some local and national happenings to you from our everyday world. Our world is full of reality TV, celebrities, gay drama, drag queen updates, club fun, good eats, music downloads, fashion do’s and do-not’s, and all sorts of information. So FYI (for your information) here we go…

Predictions: Look for Nancy Grace and Joy Behar to start dating. Oprah and Gayle will break up, Tom Cruise will finally be outed along with Charles Crist and Linda Stewart will be elected Mayor! Till Next Time,

Leigh

www.leighshannon.com

OMG 65

Gay’s Anatomy

t seems that the recent sunshine has brought out the weekend warrior in all of us. Lately, I’ve been bombarded with patients dealing with broken bones and torn tendons, many of which could have been avoided if they were wearing proper protection. If you want to keep your ‘leg bone connected to your knee bone’, here are a few helpful tips on treating and preventing some of summer’s most common weekend wipe-outs.

Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) - A condition where the outside aspect of the elbow becomes tender, painful or even swollen. This is an injury that typically occurs from repetitive motions or ‘minor’ trauma, such as playing tennis or other racquet sports. Pain is caused by consistent inflammation and can be treated conservatively with antiinflammatory medications and an elbow brace that redirects the tension at the elbow over a greater area, minimizing point pressure on the elbow.

Medical Epicopndylitis (Golfer ’s Elbow) - Similar to tennis elbow and is also caused by persistent inflammation from repetitive strain injury. Medial epicondylitis affects the inner-side of the elbow and is treated with similar methods. Using RICE therapy (Rest, Ice, Elevation and Compression) should also be included in any rehabilitation care. Ankle Sprain - Whether you were running, playing soccer, or tripping over a curb in a drunken stupor, ankle sprains are a common medical condition where one or more ligaments of the ankle tear or are partially torn. Anterior talofibular ligament is one of the most commonly involved ligaments (on the outside aspect of your ankle). Sprains to the lateral aspect of the ankle account for 85% of ankle sprains. Rehabilitation should include RICE therapy, radiographs if boney tenderness indicates a possible fracture and possible splinting and physical therapy for improved joint motion and strength building. Thumb Sprain - The thumb is sprained when the main liga-

ment (ulnar collateral) that supports pinch and grasp activities is torn. The ulnar collateral ligament helps the hand function properly, acting like a hinge to keep the joint of the thumb (the metacarpophalangeal joint) stable. If the ligament is only partially torn, the thumb joint will probably be immobilized with a bandage or cast until it heals. The splint will be worn for about three weeks. After that, it can be removed when performing flexion and extension exercises with the thumb. Hernia – Perhaps you were lifting something or someone heavy off of you and felt a disheartening ‘pop’ somewhere near your prized possessions. You may have blown an Oring – a hernia that is. Normal development of the testicles require that they pass through a small opening in the abdominal wall called the inguinal ring which leads to the inguinal canal, eventually ending in the scrotum. Typically, the passage way closes behind itself, and the testes are locked in place where they belong. My guess is that most of you can locate these structures blindfolded with both hands ties behind

your back. Failure of the passage way to close, can lead to problems later in life if other abdominal organs find their way into this tunnel of tissue. A hernia occurs when intra-

enlarge, extend the length of the canal and even exit the canal through the external inguinal ring and into the scrotum. The closed space of the scrotum with the testes and

evaluation and may require surgical treatment for correction. If you plan on pounding the pavement for a run, showing off skills in a game of pickup ball or finally learning to swing a golf club, please make sure you are aware of impending signs of damage or strain. Many injuries can be avoided or rehabilitated early and prevent further wear and tear with proper gear and support. I do not endorse “gay-bashing” of any kind, especially when self inflicted. If you’re worried that your ‘lovely bones’ are being used and abused by your athletic ambitions, see your health care provider to learn about proper preventative measures. Please e-mail questions or concerns to doctordan@omgmag.com and look for answers to your questions in upcoming issues. This column is intended to address concerns, not to evaluate, diagnose or treat any medical conditions. All personal health decisions should be made in coordination with your health care provider.

abdominal contents, commonly including fatty tissues, peritoneum (protective layering of intestines) and eventually intestines, protrude through the ring to enter the inguinal canal. As time passes, the hernia contents may

the abdominal contents can cause swelling, tenderness and pain. This injury usually occurs from bearing down, weight lifting or a direct blow to the groin – traumatically that is! Pain in this region deserves immediate medical

Tim reviews

OMG 72

WRITTEN BY TIM EVANS

Connie Francis Info and Calendar of Events

CONCERT SCHEDULE

Where the Boys Are/Connie Francis Weekend A series of concerts in Florida began in March at the Mahaffey Theatre in St. Petersburg, with additional dates in Connie’s town of Coral Springs, and beautiful Orlando. The excitement is a prelude to the “Where The Boys Are/Connie Francis Great American Beach Party” scheduled for Memorial Day Weekend (May 28-29) in Fort Lauderdale, with Connie present to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the ﬁ lming of “Where The Boys Are.”

Saturday, May 1, 2010 Bergen Performing Arts Center 30 North Van Brunt Street Englewood, NJ 07631 Friday, May 21 through Sunday, May 23, 2010 Las Vegas Hilton Connie will be appearing with Dionne Warwick Friday, May 21 and Saturday, May 22 shows deﬁ nite; Sunday, May 23 may be added.

This should be the biggest “International Beach Party” and Connie has been part of the planning and will be excited to see all of you there. As Connie sings in V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N, “We’re going to have a ball!” For the latest information, contact Chaz Adams in the City of Fort Lauderdale, (954) 828-4748. Keep checking conniefrancis.com for updates.

MEET & GREET

Connie Honored in Fort Lauderdale Connie was recently given a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival in November. A spokesperson for the festival said, “Everyone was very impressed with her. This was our best event ever!”

One of the many special qualities about Connie is the warmth and generosity she shows her fans. After every concert, Connie signs autographs, poses for photos and accepts gifts from her fan who ﬂ ood backstage to meet the icon. It’s always a nonstop “We Love You Connie!” and her gracious response proves that she is not only a superstar but a remarkable lady. Fans can e-mail photos in jpg format to conniefrancis.com. Include your name, location of photo and date photo was taken. Connie Francis International Fan Club For question about the fan, please e-mail Pat Niglios, the fan club representative, at conniefrancis.com.

A EVENING UNDER THE STARS WITH

DEBRA HAMPTON

THURSDAY’S LIVE ON THE PATIO

7:30PM

$3 Lycheetini’s Advance Reservations 954-202-0000

2389 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-202-0000 | www.galangarestaurant.com

DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL Que pasa OMG! readers? How’s the everyday life treating our female readers? I hope that everyone is keeping their heads up high given the current times of job searching and stressing over bills, relationships, school, friends and family. I don’t know if you all heard about President Obama and the 1993 “Don’t ask, don’t tell” (DADT) Policy. A little history… Don’t ask, don’t tell (DADT) - is the common term for the policy restricting the United States military from efforts to discover or reveal closeted gay, lesbian, and bisexual service members or applicants, while barring those that are openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual from military service. (from Wikipedia) In his 2008 Presidential campaign, President Obama continually gave the guarantee to kill the controversial policy only to reiterate that promise in his State of the Union address. The progress to repeal the plan has been noticeably slow, but the administration blames the need for a full repeal mandating a separate bill in Congress. In March of this year, the Pentagon agreed to a “relaxing enforcement of the ban,” (don’t know what the hell that means in military language) given the clear path for final repeal. On April 21, 2010, President Obama was giving a speech at a fundraiser for Senator Barbara Boxer in Los Angeles, CA. There were protestors who vocally expressed the White House’s failure to push the full repeal of the DADT policy. Obama reminded the crowd that both he and Senator Boxer stood for the same thing, and that the protests should be directed at those who oppose and not support the repealing of the policy.

For those unfamiliar with Senator Barbara Boxer, she did not vote for the DADT policy in 1993. Senator Boxer supports the repealing of the policy, something that a lot of families, soldiers and supporters have been fighting for since 1993. I was only 6 yrs old when the controversial DADT policy was passed in 1993. I remember watching many from the LGBT community protesting its existence outside the White House. 17 years later and those protestors’ voices may finally be heard. Reelect Senator Barbara Boxer in California. To contribute a monetary donation towards Senator Barbara Boxer’s 2010 campaign, please send a check to: Friends of Barbara Boxer, PO Box 411176, Los Angeles, CA 90041.

ast week, I found myself in the most European-city in the United StatesSan Francisco. And where did I lay my head? The Best Western Americania. Yeah seriously, the Best Western. This one is owned by the touchy-feely, quirky yet highly-competent Joie de Vivre Hotel Group. And that makes all the difference.

over there. I flashed my fake smile, checked my bags with the porter and went off exploring. At 3pm, I was exhausted and got to see my room. My expectations were at an all-time low but this place delivered a one-two punch and I was impressed and instantaneously revived. The rooms, recently renovated, are extremely clean and inviting. The 50s-inspired décor was restrained with white walls, red curvaceous lamps and bright prints- it was all cheeky and cheerful. I had a comfortable bed dressed in the sort of sheets you find at classier joints, and loaded with down-filled pillows. There was a big flat-screen television, an ipod dock, 2 comfy chairs and a great desk to drop my stuff on. They even have complimentary (!!!) wireless. I was elated and relieved.

The cheap rate ($69/a night) was the main reason I first entertained the idea. See, I wasn’t looking for (i.e. couldn’t afford) luxury. I just wanted a decent and clean room to pass out in and an easy jump-off for my many planned Bay-Area adventures. After a quick look to tripadvisor.com, I took a deep breathe, stifled my inner doubts and booked a standard queen room here. I am so glad I did. The bathroom, my favorite part of an hotel room was spotless but a bit It didn’t start off well, though. After whomp whomp compared to the landing at 9am from JFK, taking the colorful, playful room. Not much Bart from the airport, getting off at renovating in there. And get this; the designated station and walking they had Lather brand shampoo, 2 semi-gnarly blocks to the hotel, I conditioner, and bath gel in an “ecowas told by the not-too-friendly front friendly” dispenser. The down-side desk that my room wasn’t ready and to that was I couldn’t take any home. I’d have to chill till about 3pm (Eye But it was one of the many little roll). touches that make this hotel a true gem and one of the best hotels I have The hotel is not in a classy spot. ever stayed in. They promote their hood as “hip and edgy” (Hmmm…). Homeless people The next morning, I went downstairs are definitely around. Most of the to ask a question from that same surrounding buildings are decrepit. front desk clerk (it appears she stayed The young woman at reception was in the night before ‘cause she was all deshelved and looked hung over- ba- smiles and giggles) and found free sically a hot wrinkled mess. But this is delicious and strong San Franciscan San Francisco. They do stuff different coffee. The Americania even have

free loaner bikes, an in-house burger Truck (1900 Folsom St)- neighborjoint, a small gym and a roof-top hood bar, friendly and husky boys pool! Is this place serious? galore. Tuesdays are supposed to be raunchy and off the chain. I missed it. Besides, luxuriating at the Best Western Americania, I decided to do it big. Chaps II(1225 Folsom St)- laid-back, Here’s how I spent 4 full-filled days in leather-ish bar. One of the bartendSan Francisco: ers practically stalked me and I liked it. Sleep I strongly recommend the Best Western Americania. It’s my new favorite hotel. The surroundings might be a bit icky but the location is sort-of unbeatable. Two blocks to the Bart (that takes you to the Castro in 10 mins). It’s also 2 blocks from all the Folsom Street gay bars. After a night out, it’s very easy (a key to sealing the deal with your new friend) to just stroll/stumble over to your cozy and ultra-lush bed.

Powerhouse (powerhouse-sf.com)to be honest, I was bored. But the back-room (I mean the smoking patio at back), was busy. Lookout (3600 16th St)- very popular video bar and a definite must checkout. I spent my last night here before racing to the hotel to pack. I was determined to shamelessly make out at the bar with a nerdy, muscular man (brains and brawn, my favorite) I had spotted right upon entry. Mission Accomplished.

Other contenders: (If you are rich) The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco; The eat Westin San Francis I had my best meal(s!) at Home (home-sf.com/). I was directed there Drink by a local and it seems everyone Blue Bottle Coffee (http://www.blue- loves it there. bottlecoffee.net)- considered one of the best coffee shops in the United La Boulange Bakery (laboulangeStates. I agree. bakery.com)- I felt like I was in Paris as I sipped on pricey yet amazing cofMoby Dick- laid-back bar. Start your fee. I noshed on a delicious braised night out here. Great happy hour chicken sandwich while chatting specials and a pool table. with a glamorous couple that had just flown in from Buenos Aires. Harvey’s- go after warming up at Moby Dick. An interesting mix of Café Flore (cafeflore.com)- great destwinkies, young professional wan- serts and strong, cheap drinks. It’s nabes, and ready-for-anything tour- where everyone goes to finally meet ists. Good music. their Match.com dates. I pretended

to read as I watched the drama unfold. rent a bike. On my second day there, I woke up early and hit the trails. I suggest you spend a day exploring this beautiful city on a bike. Squeeze into your biker shorts, strap on some comfortable shoes and grab a bike at Blazing Saddles (http://blazingsaddles. com). I clocked 12 miles cruising (pun intended) out and about. I rode from Fisherman’s wharf, over to Park Presidio, past the Palace of Fine Arts, over the Golden Gate Bridge and into Sausalito. If you get tired, like I did, end back to San Francisco in style. Just hop on the 20-minute ferry from Sausalito which drops you off right at Fisherman’s Wharf. relax After a few days of walking, biking, eating and drinking my way through San Francisco, I hit Kabuki Springs & Spa (kabukisprings.com)for the most unique (and non-slutty, its not that kind of place) spa experience. Kabuki is a Japanese-style bathing complex where one can indulge in the lostand-harmonious art that is communal bathing. This joint is clean, relaxing and totally worth your time. It has all you need to detox with freshly cut apples, strawberries and cucumbers which you nimble on before you walk into 2 large steams rooms. Traveling is a way to live another life. And San Francisco is just the prefect city to live your other gay life. Eat, drink, explore, meet fun laid-back people and most of all, relax and recharge so you can hit your real life head-on. San Francisco should be your next trip!

FLORIDA

GUIDE

M:FI: LM'I>M>

5 9

2 3

YBOR CITY

CHELSEA NIGHTCLUB 1502 N. Florida Ave 6 813-228-0139 7 CITY SIDE 3703 Henderson Blvd. (813) 350-0600 8 VALENTINES 7522 N. Armenia Ave 813-936-1999

10 TRIBECA COLORSALON 1600 E 8th Ave 813-242-4080

GAYBOR COALITION

gaybor.com

CZAR VODKA BAR

HILTON GARDEN INN TAMPA YBOR HISTORIC DISTRICT 1700 East 9th Ave. Tampa, Florida 33605 813-769-9267

HOWARD JOHNSON 111 W. Fortune St. 813.223.1351

BUDDHA LOUNGE 1430 E 7th Ave 813-242-0400

JOFFREY'S COFFEE & TEA COMPANY

1600 East 8th Ave. Tampa, Florida 33605 813-247-4600

HAMBURGER MARY'S 1600 E 8th Ave 813-241-6279

SPECIAL VENUES The RITZ Ybor 1503 E 7th Ave 813-247-25550

FLORIDA

GUIDE

M:FI: LM'I>M> 5

3 4

PARTNERS

46th Ave S

2924 5th Ave N. St. Pete 727-827-2831

37th St. S

34th St. S

PENINSULA INN & SPA

2937 Beach Blvd. Gulfport (727) 346-9800

PUB 5

BG’S BAR

10387 Gandy Blvd. St Pete FL 33702

BUSINESSES

MANILOWS NIGHTCLUB

1148 U S 19 N. HOLIDAY FL 34691 727.940.5854

TRIBECA SALON South Tampa 920 West Kennedy Blvd 850-250-0208 www.tribecasalon.com

FLORIDA

<>GMK:E ?EHKB=: Orange

FIRESTONE 578 N. Orange Ave. Downtown Orlando 407-872-0066

3 4 5

RAIN 4732 S. Kirkman Rd Orlando 321-276-9466

6 7

GUIDE

FLORIDA

<>GMK:E ?EHKB=: 5 1

2 4

TEAHOUSE &

(321) 422-8610

GUIDE

FLORIDA

GUIDE

NE 27th Ave

LHNMA ?EHKB=: Access Rd

E Oakland Park Blvd

Bayview Dr

NE 32nd St

Access Rd

5 8

NE 26

th Te

rr.

NE 30th Pl

4 10

6 14

13 12

WEST PALM BEACH BARS HG ROOSTERS 823 Belvedere Rd. (561) 832-9119 HOTEL NIGHTCLUB 700 South Rosemary Ave. (561) 651-1110 MONARCHY 212 Clematis St. (561) 835-6661 THE LOUNGE 517 Clematis St. (561) 655-9747 WILTON MANORS ATOMIC/BOOM NIGHTCLUB 2232 Wilton Dr. 1 (954) 630-3556

BILL’S FILLING STATION 2209 Wilton Dr. 2 (954) 567-5978 EDEN 3 2387 N Dixie Hwy. (954) 630-3556 GEORGIE’S ALIBI 4 2266 Wilton Dr. (954) 565-2526 5 GIGI & GAVIN’S GOURMET CHOCOLATES 2041 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors, FL 954-626-0629 THE MANOR 2345 Wilton Dr. (954) 626-0082 ROSIE’S BAR & GRILLE 6 2449 Wilton Dr. (954) 567-1320

SCANDALS SALOON 7 3073 NE 6th Ave. (954) 565-3084 SIDELINES SPORTS BAR 8 2031 Wilton Dr. (954) 563-8001 9 TROPICS 2000 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors (954) 537-6000

BUSINESSES BALL 2252 Wilton Dr. (954) 537-4120 BOTTOMS & TOPS 2258 Wilton Dr. (954) 562-6670

CHIC OPTIQUE 2228 Wilton Dr. (954) 567-3937 DENNIS DEAN GALLERIES 2440 B. Wilton Dr. (954) 530-2789 GAYMART 2228 Wilton Dr. (954) 630-0360 ROCK HARD ADULT STORE 2301 Wilton Dr. (954) 318-7625 RUFF RIDERS 2043 Wilton Dr. (954) 318-7625 TINY TREASURE 10 PUPPIES 2043 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors, FL (954) 630-1751

GIGI & GAVIN’S GOURMET CHOCOLATES & COFFEES 954.626.0629 2041 WILTON DR. TO THE MOON 2205 Wilton Dr. (954) 564-2987 VERTIGO SALON 2420 Wilton Dr. (954) 530-0946 RESTAURANTS COURTYARD CAFE 2211 Wilton Dr. (954) 563-2499 GALANGA THAI KITCHEN & SUSHI BAR 2389 Wilton Dr. (954) 202-0000 HUMPY’S PIZZA 2244 Wilton Dr. (954) 566-2722 ISLAND CITY BISTRO 2037 Wilton Dr. (954) 563-2266

JAVA BOYS 2230 Wilton Dr. (954) 564-8828 JUICEBLENDZ 2248 Wilton Dr. (954) 358-0772 LIPS RESTAURANT 1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd TROPICS 2004 Wilton Dr. (954) 463-4269

SEA MONSTER 13 2 S New River Dr. West (954) 767-6200 14 TORPEDO BAR 2829 West Broward Blvd. (954) 587-2500 VOODOO LOUNGE 15 111 SW 2nd Ave. (954) 522-0733

FT. LAUDERDALE CLUBS

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

8 BOARDWALK 1721 N. Andrews Ave. (954) 463-6969 9 COZMOS 2674 E. Oakland Pk Blvd 954-616-8239 THE DEPOT 10 1243 N.E. 11th Ave. (954) 568-7777 JOHNNY’S BAR/ 11 NIGHT CLUB 11 1116 West Broward Blvd (954) 522-5931 LIVING ROOM 12 300 SW 1st Ave. (888) 992-7555

BUSINESSES

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

BY OKESENE TILO

USHER’S GREATEST MOMENTS

Christopher Polk/Getty Images

good & Not Fast “Nice & Slow” becomes Usher’s first number one song to top the Billboard Hot 100 charts in January 1998. It will become the first of Usher’s string of eight number one Billboard chart-toppers. To this day, “Nice & Slow” remains an audience favorite from the singer’s entire catalogue.

The Velvet rope Tour As a huge admirer of the late Michael Jackson, Usher was in for a special treat when he was asked to open up for the King of Pop’s sister on her Velvet Rope Tour in the late 90’s. Janet Jackson’s Velvet Rope Tour went on to gross $32.5 million in the US alone; introducing Usher to a whole new audience.

bieber Fever As Bieber Fever rapidly spreads across the globe, one can send a huge thank you card to Usher for helping pop singer Justin Bieber land his record deal. Says Usher about the teen sensation, “Justin Bieber is more talented than I was.” Whatever the case, the signing of Justin Bieber only flaunted Usher’s business savvy and forecasted a possible new future career path as a music industry executive.

Chris Pizzello/Associated Press

Hell Yeah! Usher’s fourth studio album, Confessions, sold a staggering 1.1 million copies in its first week. This record-setting week was an all-time high for Usher and an all-time high for any male R&B artist ever. The album boasted four number one singles which included “My Boo,” (a duet with Alicia Keys) “Burn,” “Confessions Part II” and the inescapable club anthem “Yeah!”

all That Jazz After conquering the music charts, Usher next set his sights on… Broadway. Filling the shoes once worn by Richard Gere and Jerry Orbach, Usher landed the splashy role of Billy Flynn in the Broadway musical Chicago. Playing to packed theaters, Usher’s turn as the celebrity lawyer garnered him favorable reviews with the critics. Suzanne DeChillo/The New York Times

t’s oﬃcial! Usher Raymond is back with a new Top 10 hit single coincidentally and beautifully titled “OMG” along with a new album called Raymond V Raymond. OMG! Magazine takes a look back at some of the R&B crooner’s top moments since he first entered the scene.

Usher’s Raymond V Raymond is in stores now.

E N J O Y T H E F L O R I D A T H AT Y O U O N C E F E L L I N L O V E W I T H

Fly Islands to the

————— a b o a r d —————

SeaCoast

airlines

FLIGHTSEEING ADVENTURES T A M P A B AY • K E Y W E S T Available for charter anywhere in Florida or the Southeast.

A I R L I N E

O F

T H E

C O N C H

R E P U B L I C

1-866-302-6278 SeaCoastAirlines.com