By BRAD “SCOOP” CASEY
One of Fort Lauderdale’s veteran mixologists is retiring. John Lyons, who has held court at Mona’s Bar on East Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale for the last 12 years, is retiring due to health problems. Mona’s owner, Jerry Schultz, is throwing a “let’s send John on his merry little way” retirement party this Saturday, June 11, from Noon till 4pm.
It’s somewhat of a “FUNraiser” for the veteran, who was recently diagnosed with bone and lung cancer. There will be a cookout on the patio beginning at 3pm and light entertainment during the afternoon. A jar will be set up on the pool table for those who wish to throw in a “retirement” gift.
John Lyons has spent most of his adult life serving up favorite beverages to thirsty customers at former watering holes such as Bus Stop, Everglades, 825 and the Haymarket. Thousands of people know him as John ‘Mary’ Lyons, and know his friendly manner. He has been a positive fixture at Mona’s, discussing the day’s events and just being a friend. So, put it on your calendar: This Saturday, Noon till 4PM at Mona’s. John will be there around 2pm.
Enough is Enough
Many Miami Beach residents have had it with the annual Hip Hop Memorial Day weekend
bash. They are getting tired of the crime and overcrowded conditions the event brings. This past Memorial Day weekend saw an influx of crime on South Beach that rivaled a war zone with shootings, killings and uncontrolled crowds. Many South Beach residents left the island for the weekend and it’s costing the City of Miami Beach a bundle for added police presence, including off-duty police from other jurisdictions. Expect fireworks from residents and some businesses, which were almost destroyed, at the next Miami Beach city commission meetings.
Shorttakes
The new Royal Palms Resort Memorial Day Weekend Sunday T pool party was such a success they will be having it once a month with the next TDance on Sunday, The Memorial Day weekend pool party drew a jammed crowd of 500 sun worshippers who paid $5 to get in. The next pool T-Dance will be held on Sunday, June 26. The resort has two pools, a bar and small café.
• The Memorial Day Weekend Tea Cruise was a fabulous success with a sold out boat. Cruise promoter Peter Burke is ecstatic over the fun time that was had by partygoers.
• The 16th anniversary party for the monthly Fetish Party’s was held at The Manor over the Memorial Day weekend. Hundreds of people were bused to the Manor from the host hotel, the Sheraton, for the private party. The Manor went all out for the party and the Fetish Party people were happy.
• Mark Lowe of Living Room is extremely happy now that the property that houses the Living Room and other establishment has been sold. Mark says he can now get a long-term lease and dispel rumors that the Living Room is closing.
• The Ramrod has booked famed DJ Lydia Prim for Saturday night, June 18th, Stonewall weekend. Her appearance draws hundreds of dance-music lovers. • Former Fort Lauderdale resident and entertainer Ricki Lee has been booked for performances at Matty’s on the Drive for the Stonewall Street Festival next weekend.
• The Rodeo Bar & Grill on Wilton Drive has opened for lunch. Diners love the food and presentation. The restaurant, also offers beer and wine and will open for dinners very shortly.
• Final permits have been issued and construction has resumed on the Bier Garden and Sushi Rock, both to be located on Wilton Drive. That’s it for this week. Thanks for picking us up and remember: To have a friend, you must first be a friend.
If you have a “scoop” for Brad Casey, please e-mail your information to BradC@jumponmarkslist.com