Wire Magazine Issue #53: Person of the Year

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ALL WIRED UP

BY thomas barker

Wire Magazine Presents our Person of the Year Throughout 2009, Wire Magazine has gone through some major changes. After purchasing the publication in mid-January, my fellow publisher, Rafa Carvajal, and I have been working ‘round the clock to bring you the best gay lifestyle content Miami has to offer. Personalities in fashion, health, beauty, sex, politics, food, law, accounting, and art, among many other topics, have all graced the pages of Wire Magazine this year, but there are only a few that have really made a lasting impression on us and our readers.

Every year, we review all the various features and cover stories we’ve written throughout the year to select our Person of the Year, along with nine runner-ups. While perusing the hundreds of articles, we looked for people who have made a major impact on our community, have an incredible story, or garnered the most interest from our readers.

Dale and his photography have become synonymous with SoBe, and there was no way we couldn’t include him as one of our Persons of the Year.

When we cooked with Michelle Bernstein for our biweekly column, Wired Inside the Chef’s Kitchen, we were absolutely blown away. This diva of the kitchen is an amazing chef and a very interesting person. Her column received rave reviews, as Wire readers got the chance to learn how to make her famous fried chicken and watermelon Greek salad.

We kick off this year’s issue with a profile on Wire Magazine’s Person of the Year, Cindy Brown.

Cindy is the operations director of Miami Beach Gay Pride and has played an integral role in organizing some of the most successful GLBT fundraising events in South Florida. We are so happy to showcase someone who has done so many wonderful things for our community.

Someone we have absolutely fallen in love with this year is Joe DePiro, the vice president of marketing for Papi Underwear. Joe has been a constant supporter of GLBT rights and health organizations and continues to pair his fashion events with some of the most important causes in South Florida.

Our next Person of the Year is the incredibly talented Dale Stine, who we showcased on our cover earlier this year.

Of course, everyone knows our next Person of the Year, Edison Farrow, whose weekly events have become a staple in Miami nightlife, and we love him for it.

In terms of the arts and music, one person that fascinated us, as well as our readers, was one of the only female Maestras in the country, Sebrina Maria Alfonso, who leads the Fort Lauderdale & Key West Symphony Orchestra.

This year, we also featured one of the country’s hottest divas of dance, Kristine W, on multiple occasions. Kristine has had more No. 1 dance hits than Janet Jackson and Madonna and is an avid supporter of the gay community

and marriage equality, making her one of the most famous supporters of gay marriage. This is why we just had to include her as one of our Persons of the Year.

Miami is known ‘round the world for our steamy fashion circuit and beautiful locals, and no one knows that better than local swimsuit designer, Red Carter. Red produces some of the sexiest shows on the sandbar, showcasing some of Miami’s sexiest men and women in his flamboyant fashions.

Winter Party Festival 2009 was an incredible success this year, raising over $135,000 for local GLBT rights organizations. The success of the event would not have been possible without our next Person of the Year, Winter Party chair, Chad Richter.

Finally, we close our list of Persons of the Year with someone who has made a tremendous impact on the business community. Steve Adkins has served as the executive director of the Miami-Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce for more than five years, and in that time has increased its membership by 100 percent.

At the same time, he has helped educate local businesses on the importance of marketing to the gay community.

Overall we have a fantastic group of people representing the diversity of lifestyle content in Wire Magazine this year, and we look forward to providing more features, articles, and columns for your reading pleasure throughout 2010!

Have a happy, safe, and steamy New Year!

wire staff ceo/publisher: rafa carvajal Executive Editor/publisher: thomas barker design director/PRODUCTION: jose gonzalez/true ink designs l.l.c.

COLUMNISTS/writers: alfredo barrios james cubby jim keizer michael sasser PHOTOGRAPHERs: john anthony sutton & danny gabriel | image1st.com juan saco mironoff | miami-gay-blog.com dale stine | dalestine.com WIRE MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED, PRODUCED AND OWNED BY WIRE MEDIA GROUP L.L.C. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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PUBLISHERs’ CORNER Happy New Year!

Plus Our Nation is Still Under Threat I want to wish all our Wire Magazine readers a Very Happy and Prosperous New Year. May 2010 bring great health, lots of opportunity, and much happiness to you, your family, and friends. All the best! This week we bring you a very special issue for #53, the last of 2009. Congratulations to Cindy Brown, our Person of the Year, and to all our runners-up!

We also encourage you to celebrate the New Year in style – so check out our NYE guide. Miami and the Beaches will no doubt have many alternatives to celebrate the New Year. One of them will be the grand opening of Club Azucar’s new Miami Beach location (corner of Jefferson Ave. and 5th St.) on January 3rd. Stop by Azucar and have a great time enjoying yourselves this weekend.

On Saturday, I went to see Phantom of the Opera at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. This Andrew Lloyd Webber international award-winning musical is the longest running show in Broadway history and a definite must see. I had seen Phantom on Broadway when I lived in New York City several years ago.

This past Saturday I was reminded of what a fantastic and powerful performance this production really is. Phantom has accumulated over $5 billion in revenues worldwide – the most successful entertainment undertaking of the twentieth century, surpassing Titanic, Lord of the Rings, Jurassic Park, and Star Wars. You should become one of over 80 million people in 124 cities in 25 countries that have seen Phantom of the Opera - it will be showing until Sunday, January 17, 2010.

On a very different note, our nation received a stark reminder on Christmas day that the Al Qaeda terror network is still very much at war with us. A terrorist defeated all security measures, boarded Northwest Flight 253 with 80 grams of PETN explosive sewn into his underwear, and activated the device in flight to detonate the explosive and bring down the plane. Thankfully his mission to kill 278 passengers and 11 crew failed. Another Al Qaeda operative in Yemen recently used a similar PETN underwear bomb in a suicide attempt that failed to kill Saudi Arabian deputy minister of interior, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, who leads his country’s counterterrorism efforts against Al Qaeda.

Our current administration has failed to fully accept that we are at war. Right after the terrorist was arrested, Janet Napolitano, Secretary of Homeland Security, made the ridiculous statement on National TV that our system had worked. Outrageous!

A man, whose father had gone to our embassy in Yemen to notify the U.S. that his son was a risk with possible ties to militant Islamists, whose name was on the TIDE list (the Terrorist Identities Datamart Environment - a databank administered by the FBI's Terrorist Screening Center), bought a one-way ticket with cash and traveled around the world with no checked luggage, and everyone in the system failed to detect the most obvious well know indicators of a potential risk. The system didn’t work Madame Secretary. Wake up!

This terrorist, from a network at war with our nation, was then arrested as a common criminal and afforded the same rights under the Constitution as our citizens - so he can lawyer up, get a public defender, and say nothing. This has to change. We are at war with terrorist enemies who should be treated as enemy combatants, as we treated German and Japanese soldiers in World War II – a war our nation won. This latest terrorist should have been classified as an enemy combatant and interrogated by expert FBI and CIA interrogators - no torture needed - to get the most information possible, as quickly as possible, and should also be tried as an enemy combatant in a military court. Mr. President and Madame Secretary, it is due time you realize that enemy warriors must be treated as such!

Stay safe and have a wonderful New Year.

Rafa For The Publishers Rafa Carvajal: rafa@wireweekly.com Thomas Barker: thomas@wireweekly.com 6 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

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wire cover: person of the year

Two years ago Mayor Matti Bower became the first Hispanic female mayor of Miami Beach, and when she took her oath of office, she made a promise to the gay community: Miami Beach would finally host its first gay pride event. And within a few months, Matti created the Mayor’s Gay Business Development Committee, which consisted of some of the most influential members of the GLBT community.

Working together, alongside Mayor Matti Bower, this committee provided guidance to the Miami Beach commission regarding GLBT issues and gay business development and support. At the same time, members of the Mayor’s Gay Business Development Committee created the Miami Beach Gay Pride Board, a not-for-profit organization that would develop and implement Miami Beach’s first gay pride.

After the development of the Miami Beach Gay Pride Board, which I am lucky enough to sit on, our first task was to find someone to manage the logistics for Pride. A number of candidates applied for the position, but none of them seemed right for the job. Unfortunately Miami Beach Gay Pride had little to no money, and we needed someone who believed in Miami Beach Gay Pride as much as the Mayor and the rest of the Miami Beach Gay Pride Board. It literally was an investment on their part as well.

After months of searching, Miami Beach Gay Pride finally found Cindy Brown, Wire Magazine’s 2009 Person of the Year. Cindy has lived in Miami most of her life, having moved here when she was only two years old from St. Petersburg. Since the early 90s, Cindy has dedicated thousands of volunteer hours, organizing some of Miami’s largest GLBT fundraisers and gay rights campaigns. She has chaired The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force’s Annual Recognition Dinner, served on the executive committee of SAVE Dade during their fight to protect the Dade Human Rights Ordinance, and helped produce White Party and the AIDS Walk for the Health Crisis Network, now known as Care Resource.

“Ever since I made the decision to come out and be public about my sexuality, I have put myself in positions where I could be involved in the community,” says Cindy. “I always put myself in situations where I can be out. My involvement in the community has given me an interesting perspective, because the people who choose to do those types of things are phenomenal and amazing people. As a result, I think that gay and lesbian people are a lot more enlightened, community minded, and dedicated to making the place they call home a much better place. That’s why I do what I do. I want to make sure I live in city I can be proud of.”

With such an extensive resume and strong ties to the community, there was just no way we could let Cindy slip away. Within days, Cindy was officially working for Miami Beach Gay Pride and immediately went to work, managing logistics, securing city permits, recruiting volunteers, creating volunteer committees, and fundraising among many other duties. Needless to say, it was a very huge undertaking.

Within seven to eight months, Cindy had spearheaded the creation of Miami Beach’s largest annual one-day event. In fact, the Miami Beach Gay Pride Board initially expected only 5,000 attendees, which is why we were surprised when nearly 20,000 people showed up to participate in the parade, enjoy the entertainment, and peruse the Miami Beach Gay Pride expo.

Cindy Brown & partner, Michelle Simons photo by dale stine 12 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

Last April 18th, Miami Beach made history by launching our first gay pride, and that would not have been possible without the support, guidance, dedication, and determination of Cindy Brown. This is why we have selected her as Wire Magazine’s Person of the Year.

Congratulations Cindy!

wire cover: person of the year

photographer

Nightlife, entertainment, and, of course, the beaches have definitely put Miami and Miami Beach on the map around the world. However, there is one side of Miami most people don’t often hear about - our incredible arts and cultural scene. More and more, Miami is becoming a hot bed for painters, photographers, and designers, looking for an opportunity to break into the scene and make a name for themselves in our glamorous little bubble.

photo by dale stine

And since Wire Magazine first began printing over 20 years ago, we have always done everything we can to promote these local artists. Earlier this year, we gave the cover of Wire Magazine to one of Miami Beach’s most prominent photographers, the incredibly talented Dale Stine.

Over the past year, we have added a number of new columns to Wire Magazine; yet, there is one in particular that has become increasingly popular – Wired Inside the Chef’s Kitchen. Every other week, I get the opportunity to cook with some of Miami’s top chefs at some of the most opulent dining destinations our city has to offer and share my experience and their recipe with readers.

Since the spring of 2002 Dale has been working with the Wire, providing exclusive images of some of Miami’s most influential business leaders, entertainers, and personalities. As a result, Dale has become one of the most successful photographers on the Beach.

Now with a resume like Dale’s, you’d probably think he has been working as a photographer in Miami for decades, but in actuality Dale has only lived in Miami for a little more than eight years.

After growing up in North Carolina, Dale moved to New York to pursue his master’s degree in music at Juilliard. Twenty-one years later and after working as a model, actor, and aerobics instructor, Dale fell in love with Miami during the Muscle Beach party at Winter Party, and decided that he would find a way

to eventually move to Miami. Three months later, fait led him to local optometrist, Michael Seibert. The two fell passionately in love and Dale decided to move to Miami to begin a new life with Michael.

Before heading down to Miami, Dale spent a weekend, partying it up on Fire Island with friends. During the weekend, a friend of his handed him a camera and asked him to capture the weekend on film. Little did Dale know that this moment in time would eventually lead to an incredibly successful career as a professional photographer.

“I was with a friend on Fire Island,” says Dale. “My friend handed me a camera and asked me to take some photos. He eventually printed the images, and everyone who saw them would comment on how beautiful they were. I decided to take a closer look, and thought ‘oh my god,’ these are really beautiful.”

From that point on, Dale dedicated himself to his craft. He spent countless hours photographing events, people, and, of course, the local drag queens. It wasn’t long before Dale was known citywide for his incredible talent as an artist and photographer. He has been showing his work at various exhibitions around Miami Beach, and the response has been overwhelming.

Dale has come a long way in the very short amount of time he has lived on the beach. He is a successful photographer, talented artist, and a big supporter of the community, which makes Dale one of our Persons of the Year.

introducing the art of Nuevo Latino Cuisine to the rest of America, demonstrating that Latino cuisine is more than just rice and beans!

In 2005, Michelle decided it was time to take her career to the next level and departed Azul to open Michy’s with her husband and business partner, David Martinez, a seasoned industry veteran. The opening of Michy’s signaled the arrival of the burgeoning Out of all the chefs I have cooked with this year, there Biscayne Corridor area as a fertile fine dining is one chef that just really blew Rafa and me away – destination. Serving delicious, haute cuisine in a warm, the fabulous Michelle Bernstein. This may have been unpretentious setting, the gourmet neighborhood haunt the first time I met Michelle, but I had been following was quickly dubbed one of the “Top 50 Restaurants in her career for sometime. the Country” by Gourmet and “Best New Restaurant 2006” by Food and Wine.

When I first moved to Miami in the latter part of 2002, I was lucky enough to attend the South Beach Wine Eventually Michelle decided to open up another and Food Festival. It was the first year that the Festival restaurant in Miami’s hip Design District called Señora was going to take place on South Beach, and the buzz Martinez. The restaurant was an immediate success surrounding the event was almost deafening. As a city amongst foodies, as it is a chic, down-to-earth, creative that has played host to some of the best chefs in the tapas restaurant that offers an eclectic menu of Old country, it was an exciting opportunity to experience World favorites. their delectable creations all in one place. Better yet, on the sandy shores of our fabulous beaches.

And if Michelle were not busy enough running two very successful restaurants, she also launched the Miami Chefs like Norman Van Aken, Jonathan Eismann, chapter of Common Threads, an after-school program Douglas Rodriguez, and Mark Militello were some that teaches underprivileged kids ages 8-11 to cook, of the hottest chefs to be seen at the event, but there socialize, and eat healthy one recipe at a time. was one chef in particular, everyone just couldn’t stop talking about – Azul’s Executive Chef, Michelle Michelle’s talent as a chef, fascinating background, Bernstein. Michelle had recently co-hosted the show, and dedication to the community definitely make her Melting Pot, on The Food Network and was currently one of Wire Magazine’s Persons of the Year.

Miami’s newest and hottest celebrity chef. What’s more, she literally put Miami on the culinary map by Congratulations Michelle!

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www.sobesocialclub.com

wire cover: person of the year I remember when I first moved to Miami, I was completely clueless on where to meet other professional gay men. I went to clubs and bars, and, of course, found some great sex, but when it came to meeting guys in an environment where we could actually converse, I was lost. I then tried searching online at Gay.com and eventually gave up because most people never resembled their pictures and some were just scary as all hell once you met them in person.

Eventually I received a forward from a friend, who suggested I check out this weekly cocktail party on Tuesdays called Martini Tuesdays and hosted by Edison Farrow. After countless hours of perusing the bars and even more hours sorting through online profiles, I figured “what’s one more party to check out!”

Maestra Sebrina had a dream of leading a worldclass symphony orchestra in South Florida. Born and raised in Key West, Sebrina studied, performed, and worked with the best around the U.S. and abroad to great reviews from critics.

from by living in other major cities, such as New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, and others. Sebrina needed to find an achievable solution to this dilemma.

Here is where Sebrina got creative and figured out a way to make it happen. The Maestra created the South Florida & Key West Symphony Orchestra by aggregating approximately 90 top talent musicians from around the country to perform in South Florida a minimum of three times per year, up to six weeks per year, in total.

“I think one of the things I am most known for is my ability to put together these orchestras, and, even though we are coming together only about a week at a time, it’s always been written that you’d never know that these musicians hadn’t played together all year,” Sebrina explained when Rafa asked her what she is best known for.

This Maestra was determined to bring orchestra music to her hometown, because she loves living in Florida and did not want to give up her career by relocating here. This talented Maestra set out to implement her dream and bring together some of the best orchestra musicians in the world as the Key West Symphony Orchestra. How did she do it? Simple, right?

Everyone wants to live in paradise?

Under Sebrina’svisionary approach, her symphony orchestra is also expanding their performance venues to a much broader audience and funding pool by performing in Miami and Fort Lauderdale. This will ensure the continued success of the orchestra, while providing all of us with the opportunity to enjoy fabulous performances from top musicians that we wouldn’t get to experience unless we traveled to great concerto halls in other cities around the United States.

Turns out that it is nearly impossible to bring the most talented musicians in the U.S. to South Florida on a permanent basis, because our cities do not have the breath of career opportunities and competitive compensation that top orchestra musicians can benefit

Maestra Sebrina has created an organization that will continue to provide South Floridians with some incredible performances by some of the most talented musicians in the country, which is why Maestra Sebrina is one of our Persons of the Year.

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Over the next eight years, Edison organized hundreds of Martini Tuesdays all over Miami in some of the most exclusive venues.

Edison has always been able to draw crowds and continues to produce some really great events. In 2009, Martini Tuesdays and his weekly Thursday night, Simple Life Thursdays has continued to be one of the hottest soirees in Miami, which is why Edison is one of our Persons of the Year.

photo courtesy of sfkwso

A few months ago, Rafa had the opportunity to sit down with Maestra Sebrina Maria Alfonso, the music director of the South Florida & Key West Symphony Orchestra, who also happens to be one of the country’s few Maestras, to learn more about this dynamic woman and her orchestra.

The next week about 35 people showed up and by the fourth week, 75 people attended Edison’s new cocktail soiree. By the fifth week, Edison realized that he was onto something, and decided to start taking a commission off the party.

And we have definitely seen our fare share of venues, parties, and bars come and go, so in a city To my surprise, Martini Tuesdays was unlike any as fickle as South Beach, it is an amazing feat to other event I had been to on South Beach. It was in reach eight years. What’s more, Edison has also an upscale lounge area of a hotel and the crowd was launched and hosted some of Miami Beach’s most full of smart, professional men, ranging in age from infamous parties, including Euphoria at Jade Lounge, 21 to 65. Within minutes, I had a $6 martini and met Piano Man Wednesdays, and Tea Dances at Opium a number of interesting people.

Gardens amongst many, many other events.

Eight years later, Edison Farrow is still throwing Martini Tuesdays as well as an assortment of other fabulous weekly events. It’s almost hard to believe that the most successful weekly cocktail party on the Beach once started out as a small get together with 10 of Edison’s friends at the Tides Hotel.

Miami is filled with a diverse group of people, who speak a number of different languages. While strolling down a block on Lincoln Road, it’s not surprising to pass someone speaking French, Spanish, German, Italian, or Creole. Now, we may not all be able to communicate verbally, but there is one universal language everyone can understand and appreciate – music.

“There were so many beautiful hotels on the Beach at the time, but gay people really were not going there for drinks,” says Edison. “I decided to pick 10 of my friends and invite them for cocktails at the Tides Hotel. We literally pulled two tables together, had cocktails, and just sat around and talked.”

Key West Symphony Orchestra

wire cover: person of the year Miami is home to some of the most talented designers, and, of course, even hotter models. Beautiful people from around the world flock to our sandy shores to strut all that they have in hopes of becoming the next big supermodel. Over the years, one local fashion label has gone above and beyond to take some of Miami hottest faces and bodies and turn them into international sensations. Of course, I am talking about everyone’s favorite underwear brand, Papi.

long before Papi Underwear became synonymous with South Florida and the hot men who reside here.

“Who’s Your Papi?’ references the various types of men’s underwear available, such as briefs, boxer briefs, and trunks and what features are best for you,” says Joe when asked about Papi’s marketing campaign.

“Is your Papi the low-rise brief for showing off workout abs? Is it a Brazilian trunk, which shape accentuates strong legs? Maybe your Papi is the thong, the strongest Earlier this year, I got the opportunity to spend a little display of self-confidence and playfulness a man can time with the man who helps make Papi underwear one realize through his undergarment.” of the most recognizable brands in South Florida, Papi’s If that were not enough, Joe and Papi Underwear have vice president of marketing, Joe DePiro. dedicated a lot of time and money to various gay Joe was born and raised in Hundson Valley New York rights and HIV organizations. Earlier this year, Papi to an Amish/Italian family. As a kid he spent most of Underwear participated in the Passport annual fashion his time delivering pizzas by buggy. After college, he extravaganza, where the latest trends in pop culture and and his boyfriend were living in New York City, but music all blend to benefit an important issue – finding a cure for HIV/AIDS. The event has raised more than dreamed of moving to a warmer place with a tropical $27 million for HIV/AIDS programs. climate. Eventually they decided to pack everything up and move down to Miami or as Joe would say, When asked why raising money for HIV/AIDS programs “America’s Riviera”. was important Joe stated, “At least half of all new HIV infections are under the age of 25. That tells us that we While Joe was preparing for the move, Papi Underwear have to do a better job preventing and protecting the was beginning to make a name for itself in Miami. Alan next generation from contracting the virus.”

Zelcar, fashion designer and CEO of Papi Underwear, decided to take the brand beyond its hometown of Joe and Papi Underwear have continually contributed Harlem, New York to the sandy shores of Miami Beach. to our community by taking their product and using it for He launched the line in Miami with a new marketing the benefit of others, which is the reason why Joe DePiro campaign called, “Who’s your papi?” It didn’t take is one of our Persons of the Year.

Dance Music Diva

Every day there seems to be more and more musicians trying to make a name for themselves on the music circuit. Some fail miserably or only get 15 minutes of fame due to a one hit wonder, while other artists, who stay determined and true to themselves, eventually become a household name and a mainstay artist.

photo by Adam Bouska

This year, our music feature writer, Alfredo Barrios, otherwise known as DJ FR8-O, was spinning in Montreal and happened to meet a musician that has been able to do just that – the diva of dance music, Kristine W. Without skipping a beat, DJ FR8-O asked Kristine for an exclusive and, before he could snap on his recorder, found himself sitting with the Amazonian dance beauty.

Papi underwear

in her family, friends, and music and bounced back with her third album appropriately titled Fly Again. The album spawned a record-breaking three consecutive No. 1 hits on Billboard’s Dance Charts and Kristine’s career did indeed take flight.

This past summer, Kristine released her latest creation, The Power of Music, an album that’s already boasting five No. 1 hits, including her latest single Be Alright, which was inspired by her struggle with Leukemia and her determination to “be alright”.

As someone who adores her gay fan base, Kristine W has continued to support our community by donating her time to a number of gay prides around the country. She also participated in the Growing up in a small farm town in northern No H8 Campaign by being photographed by Washington, Kristine wasn’t always the Adam Bouska, who has photographed a number glamorous dance diva we see on stage or hear of celebrities that support gay marriage. in the clubs, but she’s always been a chameleon, a survivor, and an inspiration to those around “I have two siblings, who are divorced—one her. of them twice, so I’m not exactly draggin’ out Kristine busted onto the dance music scene in my pompoms for marriage,” Kristine responded 1996 with her breakout hit One More Try and when DJ FR8-O asked her about marriage has been a staple in gay clubs ever since. Her equality. “But if anybody wants to exercise their jazzy pipes have won her 14 No.1 hits on the right to do it, I think they should be able to. Why dance charts. If that were not enough, she’s also shouldn’t gay couples be given the same rights worked with the biggest names in dance music. as straight couples?”

At the height of her career, Kristine was diagnosed with leukemia and hospitalized for two years.

For most people in the music industry, this would have meant the end, but Kristine found strength

Krisine W is a determined, talented, and successful artist, who loves and supports the gay community, which is why we have named her one of Wire Magazine’s Persons of the Year. wireweekly.com | wire magazine | 15

fashion designer

wire cover: person of the year Miami is home to some of the hottest people in the world. Beautifully tanned and tone men and women flood our streets, bars, and clubs, making Miami one of the sexiest cities to visit. Now, no matter how beautiful a person is, it really takes the right fashion elements to take a diamond in the rough and turn it into a sensational piece of work. And one Miami designer who continually dresses the glamorous and beautiful is the ever-talented Red Carter.

“I am always looking for interesting patterns and prints,” says Red. “I also do my own original development of prints and patterns. My collections Born in Southern California, Red spent most of his always showcase what’s happening in Italy and trends teenage years as a swimmer, diver, and water polo that I think are important, which is why I design and player. As he grew up, Red felt the need to explore his develop some of my own prints. The silhouettes are creative talents and decided to attend the Otis/Parson all uniquely designed, and I put the color stories and School of Art & Design. From that point on, Red’s love pallets together. We are a true design house.” for the water and fashion combined to create some incredible clothing for a number of big name brands And Red definitely knows how to put on one hell of a including Victoria’s Secret, Espirit, GUESS Jeans, and production, and that is something we love him for. For those of us who have spent a lot of time sitting next Oscar de la Renta. to a runway, fashion shows can sometimes be a little After a few years of working in the L.A. fashion scene, tedious; however, Red always spices up the catwalk Red decided to take a job working for a fashion with beautiful models donning dramatic accent pieces, licensing company, creating swimsuits for a variety and that is exactly what he did during his show at the of major labels. Eventually Red decided to utilize his Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 2009. experience and love for swimwear and create his own label, Red Carter.

Red Carter has become one of the most famous designers in SoBe, and we just can’t get enough of Seven years later, Red Carter is one of the most sought him, which is why we all agree that Red Carter should after swimwear lines in the country. Saks Fifth Avenue, be one of Wire Magazine’s Persons of the Year.

Barney’s New York, and Intermix, among others, have all signed on board to offer Red’s unique swimsuits.

Congratulations Red!

Chad also joined the Miami Beach Gay Pride Board, providing technical support to the organization. At the same time, Chad was also dedicating hundreds of hours to the Task Force, meeting with local leaders, lining up sponsors, organizing various committees,

We are very thankful for all of Chad’s hard work and community involvement, which is why we have made him one of our Persons of the Year.

When asked why Chad volunteers, he replied, “The personal satisfaction of giving back and of knowing that when those checks are given out to the different beneficiaries, that might not be around otherwise, makes me feel like I have done something really special. It’s so nice to see the community come together, even if it’s just to celebrate.

Last March, I wrote a cover story on The During these very difficult times our nation is National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and divided because of so many different things, the 16th Annual Winter Party Festival. While and we all really need to stick together.” doing my research, I had the pleasure of interviewing Winter Party Festival chair, Chad’s dedication to the community and to Chad Richter. the work that the Task Force does has paid off, as they recently donated $135,000 to Now I have known Chad for a couple of years, but I had never really got the chance the Dade Community Foundation, which will to sit down and talk with him. I first met in turn allocate the funds to local GLBT rights him in the early part of last year, when he and health organizations that rely heavily on joined me on Mayor Matti Bower’s Gay those funds.

Business Development Committee, now known as the Miami Beach Gay Business For some, Winter Party Festival may just Enhancement Committee. While serving on be another fabulous party, but for those the committee, Chad has helped the Miami organizations and the people who rely on Beach commission pass pro-GLBT legislation, their services, Winter Party is a blessing. And including a resolution that allowed the gay if it were not for people like Chad, it would be another event that could not exist. pride flag to fly freely in Miami Beach.

Congratulations Chad!

winter party festival chair

and doing all that he could to ensure the success of Winter Party.

photo by dale stine

Throughout the year, a number of nonprofit organizations and foundations host an assortment of fundraising events.

Organizations like the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, Equality Florida, SAVE Dade, and Care Resource, among many others, host some of the largest events in Miami – all of which would not be possible without the help and support of local volunteers.

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During this year’s Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, Red premiered his latest collection of men and women’s swimsuits. The collection, which he jokingly refers to as “Rock ‘n’ Roll, Space Hooker circa 1984,” was chock full of colorful new prints – some of which he personally designed himself.

wire cover: person of the year

photo by rafa carvajal As we struggle through the current crisis that is our economy, it is hard to stay positive. Sometimes it feels like we are all working twice as hard to make half as much as we used to. Luckily, there is a strong and viable GLBT community out there that is still investing, spending, and supporting each other. Marketing studies estimate that over 200,000 members of the GLBT community reside in Miami and have a spending power of approximately $6 billion dollars annually. What’s more, an estimated 1.2 million GLBT visitors flock to the Magic City every year, spending more than $1.7 billion at our retail shops, hotels, bars, and restaurants.

And no one knows this more than our next Person of the Year, Steve Adkins, the Executive Director of the MiamiDade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (MDGLCC). We may be in a recession nationally, but you would never know it by looking at the membership roster of the MDGLCC. In fact, the MDGLCC is the largest it has ever been, with over 600 members, ranging in size from small “mom and pop” shops to large corporations like Burger King. And a major reason for the success of the MDGLCC is due in large part to Steve’s hard work and dedication to educate business owners on the importance of marketing to our community.

Steve first moved to Miami in 1999 from San Diego in order to pursue a lifelong dream of owning a gay bed and breakfast. After a couple of visits to our sandy shores, Steve opened the Jefferson Hills Bed and Breakfast.

Over the next five years, Steve spent every second of every day working to build his business. While managing the B&B, Steve began to get involved with the Chamber. Eventually the grueling hours took its toll on Steve and he decided to sell the business and take a break.

While debating what to do next, Steve got more involved with the Chamber, which was going through its own changes at the time. As luck would have it, the executive director position within the Chamber became available and Steve jumped at the chance.

Steve immediately went to work on building a stronger membership of gay owned and gay friendly organizations that included non-profit organizations and for-profit businesses. In the past four years, the Chamber’s membership has literally increased by 100 percent. Now, that’s a success story if I ever heard one.

In the short time that Steve has been running the MDGLCC, he has become one of the most influential members of our community, and, as such, was honored this year at National Gay and Lesbian Task Force’s annual recognition dinner with the 2009 Eddy McIntyre Community Service Award.

We have been so impressed by Steve and the incredible work of the Chamber; we just couldn’t resist selecting him as one of our Persons of the Year.

Wire Magazine Celebrates the 2009 Persons of the Year

miami-dade gay & lesbian chamber of commerce

Congratulations Steve and thank you for all your hard work! wireweekly.com | wire magazine | 17

wire's guide to a glamorous NYE!

by thomas barker Thursday, December 31, 2009

Da Leo Trattoria

midnight toast, live NY Time Square telecast, salacious go-go girls, and tons of party favors.

Admission: Free

Admission: Free

Da Leo is definitely the place to be if you’re a local.

And this year Da Leo is offering a prix fixe menu that’s really a bargain, as well as live entertainment by Jenny Love and the hostess with the mostess Marcos. The threecourse dinner also includes your own bottle of Perrier Jouet champagne! Have a shrimp cocktail or a prosciutto and melon then move on to a filet mignon, New York steak, or flounder filet. There’re plenty of choices on this menu. And if you’re looking to start off the New Year with a stiff drink, Da Leo also has a full bar. And remember, New Year’s Day, Jan. 1 they are serving their full menu all day long.

Catalina Hotel

Per couple: $180

Buck15

707 Lincoln Lane, MB | 305.538.3815 Tonight Edison Farrow will glam out his weekly Thursday night soiree, Simple Life Thursdays, by inviting revelers to party the night away with a couple bottles of some of your favorite libations, including Absolut, Kettle One, and Grey Goose – all at very affordable prices. Of course, Simple Life Thursdays wouldn’t be complete without the fabulous beats of DJ Daisy D.

1720 Collins Ave., MB | 305.674.1160 The Catalina Hotel goes retro this year by toasting the New Year with an all access pass to live music and entertainment, including food and open bar. For an affordable price revelers will get access to a fun, allinclusive celebration. Each of the hotel’s three buildings will feature the hottest music including a live performance

by The Spam Allstars.

Guests will receive a party-hopping pass allowing access to each building. The buildings will feature a line-up with their own musical acts including The Spam Allstars in Maxine’s Bistro & Lounge, the best of old school hip hop at Kung Fu Kitchen & Sushi, and 80s groove in the Red Bar while enjoying three separate delicious dinner buffets, gourmet sushi, decadent desserts, open bar including vodka ice luge, and specialty cocktails.

Admission: $95 18 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

819 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.674.0350

Discotekka

950 SE 2nd Ave., Miami | 305.371.3773 Throw on your glitter and head over to Discotekka for their All that Glitters Party with DJs Bruno Pozzo and Carlos G spinning the best of house and Top 40. The evening will also include a special production by house divas Vegas Dion, TP Lords, and Gina DAngelo, plus a complimentary champagne toast as the ball drops at midnight.

La Marea @ The Tides South Beach 1220 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.604.5070

Ring in the New Year with a special four-course prix fixed menu that includes a glass of prosecco, caviar tasting, delicious foie gras, grouper or ribeye, and a wonderful dessert. While New Year’s revelers indulge in the fabulous offerings, a live DJ will help set the mood by spinning an eclectic mix. There will be two seatings, one at 6 and 6:30 p.m., second one at 9 and 10 p.m.

Admission: $100 for first seating / $125 for second seating

Maya Tapas & Grill

809 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.538.0058

Admission: $10 for 21 and up/$15 for under 21

Enjoy a relaxing end to 2009 and celebrate New Years Eve with family and friends at Maya Tapas & Grill. To help ring in the New Year, Maya will offer a three-course feast plus dessert with mouthwatering choices like white lobster bisque with sweet cream, lobster meat salad, duck empanadas or gentlemans churrasco with mash potatoes, warm red pepper salad, and bleu cheese crouton. A complimentary glass of champagne will be provided with reservation.

Halo

Admission: $79.95

1625 Michigan Ave., MB | 305.534.8181 Swing by South Beach’s most sophisticated gay bar to ring in the New Year with the girls during Pandora Events' New Year’s Eve soiree, Sweet New Year’s Eve Bash. The evening will include beats by DJ Zehno, a complimentary

Palace

1200 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.531.7234

For most people enjoying the fireworks display is a must, and there is no better place in town to catch the Miami

Beach fireworks show than on the outdoor patio of the Palace. This year, the Palace is hosting a very special dinner celebration that includes three courses ranging from lobster tail to filet mignon and more. The evening will also include music by the infamous DJ Kris and special performances by Tiffany Fantasia and Noel Leon.

Admission: Packages range from $45 to $145 per person

Penny Back Boyz NYE Soiree

Meridian Lofts 2001 Meridian Ave., MB | pennybackboyz.com The holiday season really is the most wonderful time of the year, and the perfect time to help our community as well. The Penny Back Boyz are working alongside their wonderful neighbor Darryl Fox to throw a fabulous New Year’s party and benefit for the South Beach AIDS Project.

Please help them reach their goal of raising $1,000 by making a voluntary contribution at the door.

Admission: $20 Donation to SoBAP

Score

727 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.535.1111 Every week for the past 10 years Score has provided the gay community with an amazing party, and this year is set to be out of this world. With all of Score’s renovations this year, there is so much more to see and do. This year, Billy and Luis are bringing in DJs Miik and Drew Tribe to kick off the New Year. The night will also include tons of give-a-ways, a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, and some of the hottest Go-Go boys Miami has to offer. Score will also be offering bottle service for people looking to celebrate the New Year in style.

Admission: $7 before midnight/$10 after

wire's guide to a glamorous NYE!

Soyka

5556 NE 4th Court, Miami | 305.759.3117 If you are looking to celebrate the New Year without breaking the bank, look no further than the festivities taking place at Soyka, which will offer their fantastic menu at regular price and an incredible performance by Kimona and her three-piece band from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

TWIST

1057 Washington Ave., MB | 305.538.9478 "Never a cover... always a groove", holds true at TWIST everyday including New Year’s Eve. Champagne toast, party hats, and noise makers at midnight. DJ Eddie X is spinning and everyone will be out on the dance floor.

TWIST will be open two extra hours till 7 a.m.! Since the party at TWIST is the best thing going on New Year's Eve - "no cover" – it’s suggested to arrive early, as the line down Washington Avenue waiting to get in is as legendary as the party.

award winning songwriter, producer, and DJ, Oscar is one of dance music's brightest and most enduring stars. VIP ticket holders will receive express entrance, private area, private bathroom, refreshments, and other wonderful perks.

Admission: $150 for VIP & $75 general admission

Palace

1200 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.531.7234

After sweating it out with DJ Tracy Young head over to the Palace for a nice ocean breeze, beautiful boys, and a stiff cocktails as DJ Just Oliver hosts the Resolution T Dance. There are always tons of nearly naked hot boys working it out on the makeshift dance floor. What a great way to spend the first day of ’10.

Cover: Free

Friday, January 1, 2010 Happy New Year!!

Genesis VII @ Mansion

1235 Washington Ave. | www.tracyyoung.com Miami’s favorite DJ, Tracy Young will help the boys ring 2010 in proper with a high energy party that starts bright and early at 8 a.m. and goes… and goes… goes! It’s Tracy’s Genesis VII, a New Year’s Day morning party that’s not to be missed. Tracy’s annual party always brings in the hottest boys and entertainers and you can bet this year’s won’t be any different. For the first time ever, Tracy Young welcomes Miami's own Oscar G. An wireweekly.com | wire magazine | 19

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wireweekly.com | wire magazine | 21

FOOD 11th Street Diner

Corner 11th Street and Washington Ave., MB 305.534.6373

Array of home-style American diner cuisine, from meatloaf to fried chicken.

Daily specials and great prix fixe menu for only $12.99. Can’t beat the prices here! It’s where the locals eat as well as the starving tourists.

A La Folie

516 Espanola Way MB | 305.538.4484

South Florida’s original crêperie that is more café-like in its offerings of classic French crepes, sandwiches, salads, and platters. A very casual, friendly lounge with competent, knowledgeable wait staff. No need to rush here! It’s French, after all! Sit, relax, peruse the numerous periodicals over a glass of Pouilly Fumé or a Stella Artois. Or maybe an herbal tea or infusion. Right in the heart of the fabulous Española Way neighborhood.

Outside lounge open for special champagne nights in season. Call for special prix fixe international dinners.

Andiamo

5600 Biscayne Blvd.,Miami | 305.762.5751

Seven-year-old

pizzeria

that

has

expanded outdoor seating with video screens and complimentary wi-fi.

Gourmet pizza is award winning and nationally recognized! Additional Italian menu selections include paninis, salads, soups, desserts. Serves beer and wine.

Now Serving Frankie’s Philly Cheese Steaks!

some of the best people-watching while dining al fresco. Ask about their special prix fixe menus – one at $15.95 and one at $27.50. They can’t be beat. Full bar with drink specials, too. The service has been outstanding as owners Leo and Mario keep careful watch. That’s why this restaurant is so popular!

Café at Books & Books

David’s Café II

One of the most important things that Books & Books has that sets it apart from any other chain bookstore is a wonderful personality. Not only can you find the latest books and coolest magazines, now you can enjoy truly delicious and generous food in one of the most relaxed environments possible on Lincoln Road. The food is really quite something, especially their Miami Cheese Steak Sandwich.

You don’t have to travel 90 miles to enjoy Cuban cuisine. Just walk over to David’s Café II off of Lincoln Road Mall on Meridian Avenue for some of the finest Cuban dishes anywhere. And all at very reasonable prices. They’re open 24 hours. Full bar. Incredible buffets for those on the go.

933 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.695.8898

Da Leo Trattoria

819 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.674.0350

One of the pioneers of Lincoln Road, Da Leo is popular spot with locals, tourists, and celebrities. Where else could you enjoy rich, tasty food, which is basic home-style pastas and meat dishes, and

bOOK An AppOintment tODAY AnD enJOY 20% OFF YOur First Cut AnD/ Or COlOr eXperienCe simply mention this offer when you schedule your appointment before may, 31st and bring this advert along with you.

660 COllins AVenue miAmi beACh | Fl 33139 t: 305 672 3600 blithe | spring summer 09

22 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

sAssOOn.COm

1654 Meridian Ave., MB | 305.672.8707

Front Porch Café

1418 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.531.8300

After 17 years of serving South Beach locals the freshest, impeccable meals in generous portions, this restaurant has nothing to prove. It’s the best for casual fare at any time, but especially for their breakfasts. A great menu with the most reasonable prices. You might have to wait, but be patient, it’s well worth the

effort as Larry, Michael, and Dawn cater to your every need.

Joey’s

2506 NW 2nd Ave., Miami | 305.438.0488

Swing by this new artsy Italian eatery for some incredibly authentic Italian nibbles as chef Ivo takes you on a culinary journey through the Veneto region of Italy. The mista salad is a great way to kick off your meal and the spaghetti alle vongole – spaghetti with mussels – or the butter flied beef tenderloin are two tasty dishes to enjoy as an entrée.

KonExpress

445 Espanola Way, MB | 305.420.5809

Brazil’s most well known Japanese Brazilian restaurant concept is now in Miami Beach, and offering an assortment of delicious Kones, sushi rolls, sakes, and salads. Swing by for Sake-Bomb Fridays starting Nov. 20th at 6 p.m. for $5 sake-bombs and free sushi.

La Sandwicherie

229 14th St., MB | 305.532.8934

Sandwiches and salads along with fruit smoothies and shakes is what you will find at this landmark sandwich shop on 14th Street between Washington and Collins. It’s one of the best places on

WIRE MAGAZINE’S LIST OF DINING PLEASURES the Beach for an outstanding selection of light fare with a French flair. Very reasonable prices. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 a.m. and delivery until 10 p.m.

Michy’s

6927 Biscayne Blvd., Miami | 305.759.2001

As one of the original members of the infamous Mango Gang, Michelle Bernstein is known for her exceptional use of local ingredients and flavors.

Michy’s showcases Michelle’s fantastic talent with a simple; yet, delicious menu ranging from fantastic fried chicken and watermelon Greek salad to her succulent steak dishes. No matter what you choose, everything is sure to be scrumptious.

Miss Yip

1661 Meridian Ave., MB | 305.534.5488

Not even Cameron Diaz could have a successful and long-lasting restaurant in this space, but leave it to the intrepid Jennie Yip to defy gravity. This Hong Kong-style Chinese restaurant has easily become a very popular spot right off Lincoln Road in a very short time. They serve truly scrumptious homemade Wonton or hot and sour soup; really good Moo Shu pork and Mongolian beef; and a terrific variety of vegetable,

rice, and noodle dishes. Don’t forget their awesome Shanghai Express $8.88 lunch specials – over 45 choices!

Palace

1200 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.531.7234

Landmark gay owned and operated restaurant and bar on Ocean Drive and 12th Street with a simple, popular tourist and locals’ menu. An American bistro flair still with one of the best 8-ounce burgers on the Beach. The bar has long been a meeting point for American and international gay tourists. Stop by any day of the week – open from 10a.m until 2 a.m. and serving food until 10p.m.

Pasha’s

900 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.3919

As one of Miami’s healthiest places to grab a bite, Pasha’s has become a staple among South Beach’s trendiest dieters. The menu features a number of delicious Mediterranean dishes including kebabs, hoummus, and falafel. You can now also grab breakfast at Pasha’s as well. Located on Lincoln Road, the restaurant also features outdoor dining for great people watching, and you can either take the food to go or have a nice sit down dinner.

Segafredo

Tides South Beach

This is the most fun and authentic Italian café in South Florida! It has coffee, deserts, light food, a fabulous bar, and the best music, all of which guarantee a fantastic time for hanging out with Miami’s hottest coolsters and tourists alike. This is where the hip hangs out with the hipper.

Chef Gonzalo Rivera combines his Mexican roots with the carribean flavor of Miami to create an exceptional menu for The Tides South Beach’s restaurant La Marea. We suggest kicking off your meal with the lobster corndogs or crab cakes and enjoying Chef Gonzalo’s delicious Angus filet Rossini or fantastic yellowtail snapper for an entrée.

1040 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.0047

Soyka

5556 N.E.4th Court, Miami | 305.759.3117

Famed restauranteur Mark Soyka’s namesake restaurant at 55th and Biscayne. Great array of affordable “comfort food” for everyone. Comfortable and inviting. Draws a great local crowd who like to hang out at 55th Street Station adjacent to the restaurant. Food and service are well worth a visit. Now featuring The News Lounge!

Spris

731 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.2020

The pizzeria restaurant of Tiramesu.

Absolutely the best Italian pizza on South Beach prepared by a great pizza chef.

An excellent selection of white pizzas, too. You can also order your pizza with a whole wheat crust. Sandwiches and salads are excellent. Best bet for an after movie light dinner or late night snack.

1220 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.604.5070

Tiramesu

721 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.532.4538

A thriving Italian restaurant on Lincoln Road with great service and excellent, moderately priced Northern Italian specialties. Expansive menu – open for lunch and dinner with very friendly staff and management.

Van Dyke Café

846 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.534.3600

What News Café is to Ocean Drive, the Van Dyke is to Lincoln Road. Another huge success for Mark Soyka who has now partnered with Graziano Sbroggio to run the place. Always packed offering some of the best people-watching on the Road and a quick breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Also check out Upstairs at the Van Dyke for an evening of Jazz and entertainment.

CHEAP CHIC Introducing our new half portion sharing menu.

CHINA GRILL SOUTH BEACH • at Washington & Fifth • $9 valet parking wireweekly.com | wire magazine | 23

this weeK THURSDAY, December 31 BUCK15 LOUNGE: It’s The Simple Life Thursdays. DJ Daisy D. spins fun hiphop, ‘80s, rock, and dance hits, with Chyna as Door Goddess. 707 Lincoln Lane, Miami Beach.

HALO: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: Swing by for Palace’s New Year’s Eve dinner complete with a fabulous prix fixed menu, cocktails, and drag performances. Throughout the day bartenders offer beach combos of beer, cocktails, and apps. Ocean Drive and 12th Street.

SCORE: Enjoy cocktails out on the patio and watch the famous Lincoln Road traffic pass by as you and your friends chill and enjoy great music. Tonight Score hosts the steamiest Thursday night soiree with fab beats by DJ Miik and Drew Tribe paired with an incredible crowd of delicious partygoers. 727 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach.

TWIST: Don’t miss out on a fabulous night at TWIST with seven different bars, DJ Eddie X, stiff drinks, beautiful dancers, and of course, the only place where there’s “Never a cover... Always a groove.”

VLADA LOUNGE: The most happening happy hour in Midtown from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with 2-4-1 infused vodka drinks, well drinks, and beer. DJ Yono Toko on the decks, spinning an eclectic mix from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m.

FRIDAY, January 1 HAPPY NEW YEAR! HALO: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: Drag Madness is the place to be to see the hottest Friday night shows beginning at 7 p.m. with Palace’s house divas working the street and the stage.

SCORE: The Penny Back Boyz host the weekly Friday night party Filthy Gorgeous Fridays with DJ Mac spinning a true open format and Score’s hottest Go-Go boys on the speaker boxes.

SEGAFREDO: Friday Happy Hour starts at 6 p.m. This outdoor Italianinspired café has comfortable, livingroom style furniture on the terrace so that patrons can truly enjoy themselves in friendly surroundings. 1040 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach.

TWIST: Don’t miss out on a fabulous night at TWIST with seven different bars, DJ Mika, stiff drinks, beautiful dancers, and of course, the only place where there’s “Never a cover...Always a groove.”

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VLADA LOUNGE: The most happening happy hour in Midtown from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with 2-4-1 infused vodka drinks, well drinks, and beer.

SATURDAY, January 2 HALO: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: The only gay bar on Ocean Drive and 12th Street, stop by for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and enjoy the hottest people-watching this side of the ocean. Tonight is Drags Gone Wild with drag shows starting at 6 p.m.

SCORE: Tonight is Score’s weekly Bigger Saturdays, the largest gay dance party on the Beach with beats by international DJ sensations, and performances by CircX. 727 Lincoln Road.

TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 with Tommy and the locals from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Come tonight and enjoy a full house of hot men and some incredible beats by DJ Mika. “Never a cover...

Always a groove.”

SUNDAY, January 3 AZUCAR: Tonight South Beach welcomes a new addition to the already glamorous nightlife, as Azucar hosts its official grand opening. Complete with fabulous performance by new house divas, great music by resident DJs, and, of course, free flowing delicious cocktails. www.clubazucar.com HALO: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

ESCUELITA SUNDAYS: For all the Latin lovers, this place will give you fever! Outside dance club provide the most intimate moments with your LATINO of the week from 8 p.m. to whenever. $1 drinks till 9 p.m. and no cover before 10 p.m. “La Escuelita” para todos que defrutan de la Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Reggaetón, y Rock en español. Hosted by Daniel Gilbert and Oscar Christian. 655 Washington Ave. LA FOLIE: Omar Gonzalez and Tony Ferro present the hottest Sunday dance party in South Beach, featuring a hot crowd of trendsetters, jocks, and socialites from 8 p.m. to whenever. $1 drinks till 9 p.m. and no cover before 10 p.m.

Two rooms, two DJs, and too much fun.

655 Washington Avenue.

PALACE: Stop by and check out Palace’s Sunday drag brunch. Unlimited champagne and fabulous nibbles for only $29. You also won’t want to miss their weekly Sunday T with fab drinks, gogo dancers, and incredible drag shows at 6 p.m. by Tiffany Fantasia!

1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Stop by for Score’s weekly Karaoke night with over 2,000 titles to choose from. Grab a cocktail and belt out your favorite number.

SEGAFREDO: Hip outdoor Italianinspired café with comfortable, livingroom style furniture on the terrace for patrons to truly enjoy themselves in friendly surroundings. 1040 Lincoln Road.

best Latin music in a posh New Yorkstyle lounge and drink specials.

HALO: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

MARTINI TUESDAY: Edison Farrow hosts the most sophisticated cocktail party in South Beach from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. www.sobesocialclub.com

TENDER TRAP RESTAURANT: Stop by for some incredible food and fantastic cabaret shows from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., while Dining with the Divas, hosted by Geraldine, Fernan-D-Cute, Akisha Dumant, and Strawberry.

305.812.6627. 661 Washington Ave.

PALACE: Better than ever before on Ocean Drive and 12th Street, try it for lunch or a late afternoon snack, or just hang out at the bar with the locals. $6 Long Island ice teas till 5 p.m. then half priced cocktails after.

TWIST: 2-4-1 happy hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Ebonee Excell and her girls perform upstairs. At TWIST: “Never a cover...Always a groove.

SCORE: It’s Planeta Macho, the hottest Latin Party in Miami Beach, featuring incredible Latin beats by award winner DJ George Ferrero, Pelu Rivero on drums, amazing shows by Miami’s best female impersonators, and the hottest crowd in town. Don’t miss this party – it’s South Florida’s Best Latin Party!

VLADA LOUNGE: Vlada is taking you back, way back, every Sunday!

Enjoy awesome drink specials and your favorite retro music from the past! Every Sunday from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m.

MONDAY, January 4 HALO: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: Stop in for comfort food at lunch or dinner. Special bon voyage cocktail specials all day. 1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Happy Monday, where all drinks, well and domestic, are half-price from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. No cover.

TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 drinks ‘till 9 p.m. Then it’s “I’m A Local” night, with $3 drinks for anyone with TWIST’s “I’m A Local” I.D. all night long. Join Nathan in the Frolic Lounge for his signature mix of pop and the top 20. Also check out the fabulous men of Gaiety in the Bungalow Bar starting at 10 p.m.

VLADA LOUNGE: Swing by the only gay bar in Midtown Miami for a 2-4-1 happy hour on infused vodka drinks, well drinks, and domestic beers from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. followed by open mic night with Joe at the bar, expect to experience something different.

TUESDAY, January 5 BOTANICAL GARDEN: Weekly book club meeting begins at 12:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public. 2000 Convention Center Drive.

305.968.1068 CRÈME LOUNGE: It’s Latin Night tonight at Crème Lounge, playing the

TWIST: 2-4-1 Happy Hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Tonight Dustin Reffca hosts his new weekly party, Fun House with DJ Daisy D working the turntables on the main dance floor. $5 Jumbo Blue Long Island Ice Teas all night long. Never a cover… Always a groove.

VLADA LOUNGE: Welcoming Kimona live at 8 p.m., who will be performing an amazing vocal mix of Broadway, jazz, and standards every Tuesday from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, January 6 HALO: Stop by for Halo’s happy hour from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Located on the corner of Michigan and Lincoln.

PALACE: Stop by the Beach House to enjoy one of Palace’s signature cocktails. 1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Come and spend a pleasant evening on one of Score’s outdoor couches as they host Martini Madness Night. A half price Happy Hour runs till 9 p.m. and then it’s $7 Martinis all night long.

TWIST: It’s time to hit the stage as Sean Brady hosts the Sean Brady Show.

Karaoke and tons of entertainment all night long. Happy Hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. with 2-4-1 on everything. “Never a cover...Always a groove.”

VLADA LOUNGE: The most happening happy hour in Midtown from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with 2-4-1 infused vodka drinks, well drinks, and beer and $5 well cocktails all day everyday. wireweekly.com | wire magazine | 25

Wire Magazine Miami Beach Community Resource Listings Presented by South Beach Insurance

Accountants Manal Oliver Manal Oliver & Associates 305.868.7620 1666 Kennedy Cswy. Suite 30 Miami, FL 33141

Attorneys Elizabeth Schwartz, Esq. 305.674.9222 560 Lincoln Road Miami Beach, FL 33139 www.sobelaw.com

Miami Beach City Attorney’s Office 305.673.7470 1700 Convention Center Dr. Miami Beach, FL 33139

Financial Advisors Erik Sherman John Hancock 305.266.6300 ext. 123 1101 Brickell Ave. PH-S Miami, FL 33131

Fitness Specialists & Gyms

Steven Kozlowski, Esq. 305.673.8988 1111 Lincoln Road, Suite 400 Miami Beach, FL 33139 www.kozlowlaw.com

Proper Form 305.531.8818 1250 SW 20th Street Miami Beach, FL 33139 www.properform.com

Dentist

Dr. Etti Ben-Zion 305.861.9383 5700 Collins Ave., 16M Miami Beach, FL 33140 www.dreitti.com

Julio Hernandez, DMD Biscayne Dental 305.657.1600 2125 Biscayne Blvd. Suite 510 Miami, FL 33137

Domestic Partnership Registry City Clerk of Miami Beach 305.673.7411 1700 Convention Center Dr. Miami Beach, FL 33139

GLBT Discrimination Complaint

General Practitioners Dr. Joseph Piperato WP&A 305.538.1400 1613 Alton Road Miami Beach, FL 33139 Dr. Albert Albert Canas MD PA 305.534.0503 1680 Michigan Ave. Suite 912 Miami Beach, FL 33139

Handyman & Carpentry

Mortgage Broker

CJ Ianuzzi 3 Square Feet 305.423.5035 www.3sqft.com

Robin Schwartz 305.794.1864 www.robinjschwartz.com

Free HIV Testing Center CVS 305.532.1033 306 Lincoln Road Miami Beach, FL 33139

Insurance Consultants Daniel Spring South Beach Insurance 305.532.7623 1315 14th Street Miami Beach, FL 33139

Licensed Psychologist Peter Popejoy, Ph.D 305.527.6637 940 Lincoln Road, Suite 323 Miami Beach, FL 33139 Melissa Friedman, Ph.D 305.534.3636 Mt. Sinai Medical Center Miami Beach, FL 33140

Medical Insurance Representative William Warren, CEBS Benefits Design Resources, Inc. 305.604.8035 407 Lincoln Road, Suite 11H Miami Beach, FL 33139

Realtors Laura Veitia Urban Resource 305.674.4141 www.UrbanResource.com Jeffrey J. Wilkinson, P.A. Douglas Elliman Florida 305.213.1495 Jnots@bellsouth.net Sherry Roberts SBB Realty 305.205.2030 www.southbeachboutiquerealty.com Alexandra Suarez Brickell Investment Realty 786.346.6663 www.alexandrasuarez.com Nathan Smith America’s Real Estate 305.724.8951 nps2376@comcast.net

GLBT Rental Properties Peter Gosselin Palm Grove Investment Properties 786.326.6366 pmgosselin@yahoo.com

WE B S ITE RE S O U RCE S Community Resources SoBe Social Club www.sobesocialclub.com Aquafoundation www.aquafoundation.org

Lesbian Events www.icandeeproductions.com www.pandoraevents.com Miami Beach Gay Pride www.miamibeachgaypride.org

MDGLCC www.gogaymiami.com

Local GLBT Health Organizations

Penny Back Boyz www.pennybackboyz.com

South Beach AIDS Project www.sobeaids.org

26 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

Care Resource www.careresource.com

American Civil Liberties Union www.aclufl.org

Local GLBT Civil Rights Organizations

Pride Lines Youth Services www.pridelines.org

SAVE Dade www.savedade.org Equality Florida www.eqfl.org

Unity Coalition www.unitycoalition.com GLSEN www.glsen.org

wireweekly.com | wire magazine | 27

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