Florida Agenda

By Cliff Dunn

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – On Monday, Feb. 13, the Wilton Manors City Commission approved a motion to allow the Rainbow Business Coalition (RBC) to host the city’s annual Stonewall Street Festival on Sunday June 24. The RBC was launched in 2010 as an association of LGBT businesses and community leaders to serve both residents’ and merchants’ interests in promoting sustainable economic growth as well as market reach and share for its members.

The Stonewall Pride event, in one form or another, has taken place in South Florida every year since 2000, when the not-for-profit Pride of Greater Fort Lauderdale (PGFTL) was formed to produce the first local Stonewall Street Festival. The event and its yearly sequels recall the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York City, which represent the beginning of the fight for LGBT rights in the U.S.

Reece Darham, co-chair of the RBC, says the organization and its members take the heritage event with which they have been entrusted very seriously. Darham says that the community’s businesses are also uniquely positioned to make the event a hoped-for success.

“Wilton Manors is a unique setting, and the businesses here—bars, restaurants, and the numerous vendors and merchants who support them—have hands-on experience in knowing what works and what doesn’t work to attract both locals and visitors to a major event of this undertaking.

Darham and the RBC cut their collective teeth last year in event planning and management when the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) held its annual global convention in Greater Fort Lauderdale, with Wilton Manors serving as “ground zero” for many of the largest social events and activities, including an outdoor concert at the city’s Hagen Park.

“The business leaders of our community did a superlative job in bringing world-class entertainment to our little corner of paradise, and after 12 years of local Stonewall events, we know and understand the demographics of these things, as well as how they positively—and negatively—impact the community.

One example of the kind of operational changes that Darham, RBC co-chair Jason Tamanini, and their colleagues are bringing to bear is the organization’s negotiations with liquor brand representatives to develop a price-point for the sale of liquor at outdoor “satellite” bars during the event, which will be called Stonewall Summer Pride.

“The advantage of RBC dealing with liquor vendors for the street bars is that the prices in these satellite bars will be consistent, as will the product they will sell,” Darham explains.

This means that if Bar X has a street-side, satellite bar during the Sunday festival, it will be selling the same liquor brands as Bar Y and Bar Z, and at the same prices. These brands will be consistent with the event sponsors’ brands, but won’t impact what an establishment sells inside their permanent locations, or the pricing.

“We want people—customers as well as hospitality vendors—to know that whosoever is selling to the public from street side will be doing so from the same page as everyone else,” Darham added. One result will be the bars will only be competing with each other, rather than with each other and the event’s organizers.

Another advantage of this business model is that it encourages the participation of smaller establishments, as well as those businesses that are not located on Wilton Drive.

“Let’s face it,” Darham adds, “there are many terrific businesses, hospitality and otherwise, that participate in the joys and sorrows of our community which aren’t located in the ‘downtown’ area. Ken and Lloyd from Scandals Saloon and The Stable were especially ‘key’ in ensuring the success of the IGLTA convention last summer. They and many others are very much a part of what makes this such an amazing place to live and work. We want them to get the same benefit from this heritage festival as will Jackson and Mark [of Bill’s Filling Station and Georgie’s Alibi], Craig [of Boom], and our city’s other bar owners and restaurateurs. And the bars on Federal Highway like Mona’s, Cubby Hole, The Depot—just ask their customers: they are as gay as any bar on the Drive,” he adds with a laugh.

The organizers plan for Stonewall Summer Pride to take place on Wilton Drive as well as at the city’s Hagen Richardson Parks between 12 p.m. and 10 p.m. on June 24. Committees have been established to oversee marketing and publicity, logistics and site planning, sponsorship opportunities, vendor relations, as well as the parade, which will take place from NE 20th Street to Five-Points and be held around dusk, with the exact time to be determined.

Something else that’s new for 2012 is the organizers’ desire for Stonewall to be a truly community-wide affair. “This is not going to be solely a ‘Gay’ Pride event,” Darham notes. “This is a ‘Community’ Pride occasion, and to that end we want to encourage the participation of the traditionally ‘straight’ bars and nightspots to help promote our entire community.”

Krishan Manners, President and CEO of Wilton Manors Main Street, Inc. couldn’t agree more. “This community is turning a page in its maturation,” he notes. “We have such a unique mixture of talented individuals, gay and straight, who have shown time and time again that they can come together and build memorable and lasting creations, whether it’s a park or an annual destination-event.”

Manners adds that the RBC has some Aces up its sleeve. “When you have the support of bars and business owners as well as that of the city, you have two key components for organizing and holding a successful event on the Drive.”

Darham and his RBC associates have hopes that success for Stonewall Summer Pride will resonate in the months after the event is finished. “A profitable Stonewall means that RBC will have sufficient funds to hold future community events, as well as paying for things like closing the Drive for ‘Wicked Weekend’ on Halloween, and New Year’s, as well.”

What about a plaque to honor the group’s first chairperson? “Get out,” Darham says, only half joking. “I have work to do.”

Photo: In times past, Stonewall Pride sustained businesses in the summer.

Now we may get to see if the reverse is also true.

Aqua Foundation for Women Awards Scholarships

MIAMI, FL – The Aqua Foundation for Women awarded twelve women with scholarships, recognizing their academic success and commitment to giving back to the community. Recipients of the scholarships came from Broward, Miami-Dade and, for the first time, Palm Beach County. Scholarships ranged in size from $2,500 to $4,000, with a total of $40,000 dollars granted by the foundation.

The Aqua Foundation for Women is an organization dedicated to increasing the wellness and equality of lesbian, bisexual and transgender women.

Sidelines’ Teams Headed to Gay Softball World Series

WILTON MANORS, FL – Sidelines Sports Bar’s two softball teams, the Sidelines Cyclones (“C” Division) and the Sidelines Eagles (“B” Division), will be heading to Chicago to play in the 2011 Gay Softball World Series.

Over 160 teams from around the country, such as Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York, Montreal and Vancouver, will converge on Chicago from August 29 to September 3, 2011, in hopes of coming home with the 1st Place Championship Trophy and year-long bragging rights.

White Party  Finds New Digs

MIAMI, FL – Care Resource has announced that the annual White Party will move this November from its long-time home at the Vizcaya to a new location, the Miami Sequarium. The 2011 White Party begins 7 p.m. Friday, November 25, and ends 6 a.m. on Saturday, November 26.

For over 24 years, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens was the location of the annual fundraiser. In the fall of 2010, however, due to increasing rental costs, it was decided that the 2010 White Party would be the final one held at that historic location.

Each year, the White Party draws thousands of guests from around the world wanting to attend the “Crown Jewel” of HIV/AIDS fundraisers and is recognized as one of the oldest and largest HIV/AIDS fundraisers in the world.

Get your tickets to the new White Party at Miami Seaquarium and world-renowned Muscle Beach Party at half the price. Florida Resident Passes are now on sale for $75 and includes the all new White Party and Muscle Beach parties. The pass offers a 50% savings off door prices and is only available for a limited time to Florida residents with a valid ID. This pass offers an opportunity to experience the two headline events of the week at a discounted price. This is a limited time offer with limited quantities and at these prices the pass will sell out.

For tickets and more information on this year’s White Party, visit the website at www.WhiteParty.org.

Pride South Florida Elects New Board

FORT  LAUDERDALE, FL – Pride South Florida, the producers of the annual PrideFest held each spring in Oakland Park, have elected a new board of directors. The new board consists of Marc Hansen (President), Roger Handevidt (Vice President), Rocky Bowell (Secretary) and Sonia Mitchell (Treasurer). Board Members-at-Large include John Fugate, Michael Rohrs, Marc J. Scharphorn and Michael Tisdale.

Island House Key West Marks 35th Anniversary

KEY WEST, FL – Island House Key West, touted as the longest continuously operated gay guesthouse in the world, is celebrating its 35th anniversary in business and its 10th anniversary under its current owners, Jon Allen and Martin Kay, who transformed it into a leader among the world’s premier gay guesthouses.

To mark this milestone, Island House is offering all 39 rooms at $13, the price it charged when it opened in 1976, for the night of June 25, 2012. The special offer is available exclusively through a special sweepstakes. 39 winners will be chosen randomly among those who complete the entry form at http://apps.facebook.com/sweepstakeshq/contests/141910. Sweepstakes participants are also encouraged (but not required) to “like” Island House Key West at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Island-House-Key-West-Gay-Hotel-Resort/56402142064 and post a comment with the phrase “35 and fabulous.” The offer is valid through midnight on Labor Day (September 5, 2011).

Island House Key West began operating as a modest, 16-room all-men’s guesthouse in 1976. When Allen and Kay took possession in the late ‘90s, the ramshackle 39-room guesthouse sprawled languidly across several dilapidated buildings, sorely in need of repair.

“We are honored to have served more than 125,000 guests in more than a third of a century,” said Allen, “”We’ve never rested on our laurels. We pride ourselves on our focus on customer satisfaction and professional, attentive service. We’ve invested well over two and a half million dollars since purchasing the property.”

After a massive investment of capital and time, they unveiled the new and much improved Island House Key West in 2001, transforming it into Key West’s most luxurious and pampering oasis for men. Having spent so much on award-winning upgrades over the past decade, Island House is unmatched in its class.

To book, call (800) 890-6284 or visit www.IslandHouseKeyWest.com.

“Angels in America”

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL – The famed play “Angels in America” will be playing at Andrews Living Arts, 23 NW 5th Street in Fort Lauderdale with a preview on August 11 and opening on August 12, playing Thursday, Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday at 7:30 p.m. through September 12.

“Angels in America” is set in New York City during the mid-1980s and follows the interconnected lives of several people affected by the AIDS crisis.

From the tragedy of AIDS to the camp comedy of drag queens, “Angels in America” transports us from NYC to Washington, the Kremlin, the South Bronx and Salt Lake City,  while dealing with Jews, Mormons, WASPs, mixed ethnic cultures and switching between realism and fantasy.  There are intense spiritual experiences and frequent references to the Reagan Administration.

“Angels in America” first appeared on Broadway in 1993 and was included in Harold Bloom’s controversial list of what he considered to be the most important works in literature published in 1994.

Tickets on line at www.andrewslivingarts.com – click on Brown Paper Tickets – or by phone at (800) 838-3006. Limited seating. Tickets in advance: $24.95; at the door $29.95.

Bachmann to Speak at Anti-Gay Group Dinner

ORLANDO, FL – The Florida Family Policy Council has invited Republican presidential candidate Michele Bachmann to headline its annual policy awards dinner.

According to Think Progress, the FFPC raises hundreds of thousands of dollars every year to oppose abortion rights, “the gay agenda,” and Islam. In 2008, they successfully led the charge to ban same-sex marriage and civil unions in Florida’s state constitution.

By Jennifer Morales

Gay Pride 2011 in Wilton Manors, FL had a rather significant meaning for me. Not only did I find the entire Stonewall Street Festival & Parade to be a lot of fun and very successful for my partner’s business, this was one parade that I will remember for a very long time.

My partner, Laurie Whittaker and I, were given the honor to be named a founding “Luminary Couple” of this year’s Stonewall Festival and Parade. Luminary Couples were defined as same-sex couples whose long term relationship of 10+ years may have been kept closeted and secret, but through their perseverance, have, in actuality, lit the way for future generations. We were very proud to be a part of this innovation since Laurie and I just celebrated our 30th anniversary!

As such, the Luminary Couples were to be showcased in the Stonewall Parade.

Our business duties as owners of Sidelines Sports Bar unfortunately kept us longer than anticipated and thus made us late for the parade’s staging. We were thoroughly disappointed to find out that our vintage convertible vehicle was earlier dispatched, since we had not arrived on time. Happily, through the efforts of the Stonewall organizers, a car was found for us to ride in and yes, the sole occupant of this car was none other than Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schulz who beckoned us to join her in her car for the parade! To my amazement, she was welcoming and insistent that we join her, and so we did. Climbing into her car, we laughed at the sheer coincidence of this occurrence.

As the parade crawled down Wilton Drive, the main thoroughfare of our little gay village, and our parade vehicle moved at a turtle’s pace, crowds converged upon us with applause and shouts of gratitude. “THANK YOU
DEBBIE!”, “THANK YOU SO MUCH!” and “WE LOVE YOU DEBBIE”! Laurie looked at me and winked and said, “this is all for Debbie”. Congresswoman Wasserman Schulz kept repeating “thank you very much” … “no – thank you” … “I love you, too” all the way down the parade route. It was a love fest for the newly appointed Democratic National Chair to be sure. Oh, yeah, of course, there were a few shouts of “Congratulations Laurie & Jen”! But, the greatest thrill for me was to see the accolades and outpouring of appreciation for the work that the Congresswoman has done for the LGBT community in South Florida.

In the car, we laughed a lot, talked about Father’s Day, Debbie spoke about her children, and we discussed the upcoming Presidential elections and simply had a fun time! Afterwards, she confided in us and said “I am so overwhelmed with the amount of appreciation and passion people have for me! Wow! I’m in awe”! Laurie told her that this was just the tip of the iceberg. Debbie was articulate, friendly, funny, laid-back and a real human being. Today I felt proud to be a gay women, but prouder of my Congresswoman. If she has any aspirations for the Presidency, she’s got my vote!

OAKLAND PARK, FL – Through attendance and revenue from this past spring’s PrideFest held in Oakland Park, Pride South Florida has continued their tradition of giving back to community organizations. Each of the following organizations received grants of $1,000:

Red Hispana Florida is a safe place where LGBT’s and heterosexuals can listen to guest speakers on LGBT issues and themed shows to bridge the acceptance gap between our communities.

Gilda’s Club South Florida, which offers men’s and women’s LGBT support groups for those diagnosed with cancer along with their partners and friends.

Names Project (AIDS Memorial Quilt), which recognizes the enormity of the AIDS crisis through community education and awareness.

Lambda Men’s Brotherhood, which promotes visibility, education and awareness of the leather community to the LGBT and straight communities.  The funds are to assist in the Leather Masked Ball, which will raise funds for a new Teen Suicide Prevention Initiative at Broward House.

South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble, to support the new Youth Pride Band of South Florida performing at the Broward Center on February 12th, 2012.

Church of the Holy Spirit Song, to assist in the construction of an LGBTQQ Youth Drop-In Center, a safe, healthy, empowering space, where youth (14-20) and allies can connect with one another and resources within our community.

KP Productions, which provides quality entertainment to seniors suffering with debilitating illnesses who reside in assisted or day care facilities and are physically unable to travel to attend performances outside the facility.

MOUNTAINVIEW VIEW, CA – For the next few weeks, if you type in the word “gay”, “lesbian”, or “transgender” in a Google’s search box, you’ll get a rainbow along with results. It’s Google’s way of honoring gay pride month

and will be available for the next few weeks.

This is not the first time Google has shown their support during gay pride month. For the last two years, Google added a rainbow bar below the search box.

In a written release, a Google representative wrote: “Google supports its LGBT employees in many ways: raising its voice in matters of policy, taking a moment to remember the plight of transgender people around the world and going the extra mile to ensure that its employees are treated fairly.

By James Michaels

In just nine short years, St. Pete Gay Pride has become the largest gay pride event in the state of Florida with nearly 100,000 people expected to attend this year from around the country. The streets will be packed, the beaches will be packed and there will be plenty of opportunities to show your pride this weekend.

Within a relatively short amount of time, St. Pete Pride has grown into one of the largest Pride events in the southeast. What started as a few thousand native Floridians and a couple city blocks on Central Avenue has become an international attraction, spanning eight blocks and attracting tens of thousands of people.

St. Pete Pride weekend is more than just a few hours on the hot streets of Central Avenue and, of course, you don’t want to miss the Pride Prominade, but there is so much packed into four days (Thursday, June 23rd – Sunday, June 26th) of showing your pride to the world.

Official Pride Events

Thursday, June 23rd, from  6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Stonewall Commemorative Reception at the Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive, N.E., St. Petersburg – The Stonewall Commemor-ative Reception is St. Pete Pride’s sponsor and friends’ reception. Fine food and beautiful art will be provided for those who have helped make St. Pete Pride a successful organization. Exhibitions on display will be “The Human Touch: Contemporary Art from the RBC Wealth Management Collection” and “New Folk: Contemporary Self-Taught Art from the Collection”.

Friday, June 24th, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., Pride in Fashion at the Macy’s in Tyrone Square Mall, 6901 22nd Ave North, St. Petersburg. Join celebrity guests, including two-time Olympic figure skater Johnny Weir and Alexis Mateo, from RuPaul’s Drag Race. See the latest trends in fashion, including the famous Papi Underwear models and enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and champagne provided by Barefoot Wine and Bubbly. Weir will also be on hand to autograph copies of his new autobiography “Welcome to My World.” A $10 suggested donation to the event is requested which Macy’s will return with a $10 gift card to be used on merchandise. All proceeds benefit St. Pete Pride.

Friday, June 24th starting at 9 p.m., Jagermeister Pre-Party at Georgie’s Alibi, 3100 3rd Ave N. in St. Petersburg. A night of fun with great music, special entertainment, drink specials, giveaways and more. Come out and kick-start the weekend fun. Included will be some of the stars of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Shangela, Alexis Mateo and the legendary Lady Bunny.

Saturday, June 25th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., St. Pete Pride Street Festival & Promenade in the Grand Central District of Central Avenue between 21st and 28th Streets in St.

Petersburg. Don’t miss one of the best parties of the year in Tampa Bay and celebrate the diversity of St. Petersburg and Central Florida. Floats from organizations, clubs, social groups and businesses will be decked out in rainbow colors for the annual St. Pete Pride Promenade starting at 9 a.m. The parade will feature LGBT activist and founder of Metropolitan Community Church, Rev. Troy Perry, this year’s Grand Marshal and Alexis Mateo from RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Following the parade, vendors from across the state will line Central Avenue to celebrate their commitment to diversity.
Saturday, June 25th from 3 p.m. to midnight, Ice Party at the Postcard Inn on the Beach, 6300 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach. The best way to cool off after St. Pete Pride. A cool dip in the biggest pool on St. Pete Beach with hot bodies dumping cold ice on you. Or a frolic in the Gulf. Join D.J. Luis Perez and thousands of hot new friends on Postcard’s private beach for drinks, dancing, fireworks and more at the inaugural ICE Party. $20 Saturday Resort Pass required for admission.

Saturday, June 25th from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m., Heatwave Party for Women at the Postcard Inn on the Beach 6300 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach. Girls know how to have fun too so the conference facility at Postcard Inn will be converted into a disco, complete with a huge (and incredibly romantic) second story deck overlooking the beautiful property and the Gulf of Mexico. $20 Heatwave Party ticket required for admission (additionally serves as your Resort Pass for admission to the Ice Party).

Sunday, June 26th from 2 p.m. to 3 a.m., Tropical T-Dance at the Flamingo Resort, 4601 34th Street in St. Petersburg. Come party around the pool for the hottest t-dance in town. Drink specials, drag queens, hot male strippers and the Florida sun ensure that the party never ends. Come dance the afternoon away at St. Pete Pride’s Official Closing Party.

Other Pride Events at the Flamingo Resort

June 24 to 27 at the Flamingo Resort, 4601 34th St. S. in St. Petersburg. No resort pass to buy to attend and plenty of extra parking. Come party around the pool for the hottest t-dance in town. Drink specials, drag queens, hot male strippers and the Florida sun ensure that the party never ends. Come dance the afternoon away at St. Pete Pride’s Official Closing Party.
Thursday, June 23 from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., Miss Flamingo Pride Contest at the Flamingo Resort, 4601 34th St. S in St. Petersburg, Come show your support for the Miss Flamingo Pride Contest. Winners get to ride in the Saint Pete. Pride Promenade the following day.

Friday, June 24th from 6 to 9 p.m., Flamingo Pride Kick-Off Party with the Double M Band performing live poolside.
Saturday, June 25th, ride the Flamingo Express from Flamingo Resort to their depot on Central Avenue and 28th Street ($1 each way) and see the St. Pete Pride Promenade then cool off at the largest pool party in Florida at Flamingo Resort. Deejays, drag shows, male dancers, food, drinks and fun.

Also …
Saturday, June 25th starting at 6:30 p.m. at Georgie’s Alibi, 3100 3rd Ave N. in St. Petersburg. Performing live will be Yara Sofia, Alexis Mateo and Lady Bunny. Sunday, June 26th, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Party at the Beach at the, Postcard Inn on the Beach 6300 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach. Deejays Jeffrey and CK keep the party going with all-day parties going. Sponsored by Outings and Adventure. The cost is $10.

By Michael French

June: the International Pride month for the GLBT community. Pride parties, galas, theme park events and parades abound. And Florida’s no exception. People are inclined to believe Ft. Lauderdale and South Florida is THE place to call home for GLBT residents. While South Florida is home to the largest GLBT community in Florida, central Florida (Tampa/St Petersburg and Orlando) has the highest concentration of GLBT residents in the state! Actually, the largest Gay Pride parade in Florida is in St. Petersburg. Surprised? Florida is second only to California, with almost 2 million GLBT residents! That being said, it nevertheless seems the voice, the Pride of Florida’s huge GLBT community, outside of its plethora of glitzy clubs, bars and gay resorts, seems muffled at best. Illinois just passed a civil union bill! I wonder what has the GLBT community in Illinois did that its brothers and sisters in Florida are unable to do – or won’t do – to find the unity, support and momentum to achieve the same equality for GLBT Floridians?

The State of Florida’s population is a mosaic of people from every state and, practically, every nation. She seems to be “unity challenged”. Florida is a paradox: Home to powerful ultra-right wing conservatives, religious zealots and “bleeding heart liberals”, whatever that really means. Florida also has some of the wealthiest and poorest citizens in the nation. She is home to well-respected universities, but her funding of education per capita ranks in the very bottom. Further supporting the paradoxical social climate here is the fact Florida, though home to the second largest GLBT community in the entire nation, has an abysmally poor record of equal rights for us. Why does true equal rights status for the GLBT community in Florida continue to be so elusive? Blind partisanship is totally counterproductive, myopic and, at the very least, immature. In general, politicians’ platforms are duplicitous with more holes than a colander. Too many of them use the Bible and the flag as “beards,” manipulating the public with fear, shouting from every stage and pulpit, “No Big Government!”

Yet, they never cease their demagogic rhetoric preventing tax paying, voting GLBT citizens from marrying the person they choose with laws denying us the same rights heterosexual people take for granted, or believe they are entitled to because they are “normal.” There is no federal law protecting GLBT citizens from discrimination in the workplace. In many locales throughout the United States, it would be perfectly legal to not hire or even fire someone just for being Gay! Yes, that action might cause a firestorm, but none the less it is legal! The United States, OUR country, self-proclaimed leader of the “Free World” and beacon of democracy receives a poor grade in its treatment of GLBT citizens. Isn’t it totally bizarre that in Iowa, Gay Americans can be legally married, but Gay Americans in Florida are denied the same by their government?

Where is the outrage, Floridians? Where is our pride?

This June, take real action and show pride not by being in parades, parties, etc., but by getting involved. Join organizations that strive to win equal rights for all Americans.

Write your representative at the local, state and federal level. Search the net for names, addresses, etc. Demand officials to fight for your rights. Say where your vote will be cast. Politicians know each letter represents 600 like-minded constituents. In our democratic society, we have the responsibility to be ever vigilant. In life, more often than not, we get what we think we deserve. If we don’t take the initiative to demand full equal rights, we will never have them.

Show Americans outside the GLBT community how more similar you are to them instead of broadcasting your differences. Pass up the parades, parties etc., and do some volunteer work at an animal shelter or assisted living home. Adopt a highway! Clean a beach! Paint the home of an aged, disabled or financially troubled neighbor. There’s never a shortage of volunteer opportunities. Give of yourself to the present – and future – generations! Pride is more evident in what we do than what we say.

Michael French is Agenda’s Home from Home columist. Contact Michael at mf7954fla@gmail.com

KEY WEST, FL – Key West has a lot to be proud of – they recently tied with San Francisco for the title of “Best City for Unity Between Gays and Lesbians,” and they won hands down in “Best City for Unity Between Gays and Straights.” Both their city and county official mottos are “One Human Family.” Their LGBT leaders serve openly, and visitors are welcomed throughout the island. They show their Key West Pride every day, and this is your chance to be a part of the celebration!

Join them for Key West Pride and enjoy dance parties, drag shows, bike tours, water excursions, a street fair, and even a parade through town. Their Miss Pride, Mr Pride and Ms Pride competitions are infamous for their fun and their skin. Make your plans now to attend Key West Pride. Most events are All Welcome. All events are uniquely Key West.

For a full schedule visit www.pridefestkeywest.com

Fort Lauderdale

THE RICHARD CORTEZ SHOW

Wollenberg Records and the Manor Entertainment Complex proudly present The Richard Cortez Show on Thursday, May 19, from 9 p.m. to midnight. The Manor is located at 2345 Wilton Dr. in Wilton Manors. No cover. Join award-winning singer, songwriter and recording artist, Richard Cortez for a vaudeville-inspired variety show. Introducing the mean girl of Wilton Manors, comedian and master of ceremonies, Robert Marks. Returning: the star of “Blood Brothers” at Slow Burn Theatre Company, Lisa Braun, and the winner of the 2011 Bushman World Ukulele Video Contest, Eric Jaffe, plus special guest as seen on Logo, award-winning and critically acclaimed Washington, D.C.-based singer-songwriter and gay activist, Tom Goss.

”VALUING OUR FAMILIES”
SunServe’s eighth annual conference, Saturday, May 21st, 9 a.m.to 5 p.m.
at 1480 S.W. 9th Avenue in Fort Lauderdale.

For more information or to register, call (954) 764-5557 or visit www.Sunserve.org.

BUNCO TO BENEFIT JUDY SHEPHERD
An afternoon of Bunco to benefit Judy Shepherd on Sunday, May 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Pride Center at Equality Park, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Bunco is easy to learn, fast-paced and a great way to meet and make new friends. You can win prizes, too. Everyone is welcome. Donation is $10, and all proceeds go to Judy. Please bring a dessert to share.

Please RSVP to Ellen Slavin, (954) 854-4513, or email: monday4women@gmail.com.

FUNDRAISER FOR JAPAN

On Wednesday May 25 from 8pm to 1am, Convict Promotions brings you Diana Kramers Dinka Designs Fashion Fundraiser for Japan. Proceeds from this event goes to the Clemente Bornacelli fund which helps directly with this crisis. The fundraiser will be held at Delux Nightclub, 16 E Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach. Music provided by D.J. X and the emcee of the night is Chuck Dogg of the X102.3 and Studio 202. The fashion show part of the event begins at 10pm and goes until 11pm so be there early for free. Visit www.clementebornacelli.com.

WIN EPICUREAN DINNER CLUB

Women in Network’s Epicurean Dinner Club and The Pride Center Present: Brunch and T-Dance on Sunday, June 12th, from 12:30 to 2:30 pm for brunch and 3 pm for the Patio T-Dance at The Manor Entertainment Complex, 2345 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Prix Fixe menu includes two drinks. For further information please contact: Joyce Schweitzer at 954-558-3657 or Toni Hadi at 954-565-0094.

Miami

Nina Flowers Returns to Club Sugar

Friday, May 20, from 9:30 p.m. to 3 a.m., at Club Sugar, 2301 SW 32nd Ave in Coral Gables. Back by popular demand after her electrifying performance last time, she’ll set the stage on fire. House Music in the Main Room with D.J. Jarell. Hip Hop & Latin in the Spice Lounge with D.J. Dave. Shows by resident divas resident divas TP and Sasha Lords. Hosted by Alex Infiniti. $5 house drinks and $4 domestic beer all night long, 2 for 1 drinks ‘til 11:30.

House Music Cruise 2011

The Sistah Sojourn Travel Club Presents the second annual  Old School House Music Cruise  sailing from Saturday, May 21 to Thursday, May 26, and cruising from Miami, to Jamaica, to Grand Cayman  back to Miami. Featured deejays will include: Farely Jackmaster Funk, Gene Hunt, Melvin Gentry, Omar Abdullah and more. If you haven’t already booked your spot, do so today at www.housemusiccruise.com or call (708) 374-7824. Use promo code “JACKIE” for special prices. This will sell out so reserve your spot today. Just $50 holds your spot.

SIZZLE MIAMI
May 26 – 29, 2011, in Miami. Party-seekers from around the world  convene in sunny Miami, Florida, celebrating life, pride and liberty. Originally a one-day occurrence, Sizzle Miami has evolved into a  5-day smorgasbord of captivating day-time events and pulsating nightlife. Although Sizzle participants are mostly comprised of African-Americans and Latinos, all races are welcomed and encouraged to participate. For more info, visit www.sizzlemiami.com.

TASTE FOR CHANGE WINE TASTING FUNDRAISER
Abzyme Research Foundation and Joel Santos invite you to this very special wine tasting. The vaccine for Polio was developed with grassroots fundraising through the March  of Dimes. ARF is funding a promising new therapeutic HIV vaccine through a series of charity wine tastings. Join them and support hope for a future without HIV/AIDS. All proceeds will go toward the continued development and advancement of HIV-EVAC, a revolutionary therapeutic HIV vaccine candidate. To learn more about
ARF and HIVEVAC, visit www.endhiv.com. Friday June 17, from 7 to 9 pm at Bar 721, 721 Lincoln Lane on Miami Beach. RSVP by Friday June 3 via Host Joel Santos: joel@sobeteethwhitening.com, (786) 267-0404. Suggested donation of $40, 21+ to attend this event.

BRITNEY SPEARS AT AMERICAN AIRLINES ARENA
See Britney Spears live on the Femme Fatale Tour with special guest Nicki Minaj and opening performances by Jessie and the Toy Boys and Nervo. Tickets now on sale at Ticketmaster.com. Get your tickets now if you’ll be a part of this epic Britney Spears Femme Fatale Tour. The concert will be held on Friday July 22, 2011 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Boulevard in Miami.

Bay Area

HOT PINK SPY PARTY
Hot Pink brings you Drum and Bass vs. Dubstep — a la spy v spy. Dress up as your favorite spy (pink/black spy or black/pink spy) and come party down and watch the mayhem ensue as Dubstep and Drum and Bass go head-to-head under our very own D.J. Vague E. Nueman. Free vodka for the ladies from 10 to midnight. guys drink 2-4-1 all night long with the lovely and blonde Katie behind the bar taking care of you all evening long, plus their very own dancing diva, Miss Natalie and friends. Don’t miss Alexis De La Mer hosting “Flamingo’s Got Talent” at 9 pm. No cover. Thursday, May 19, from 10 pm to 3 am at the Flamingo Resort, 4601 34th St. S, in St. Pete.

FIRE AND ICE WEEKEND AT ST. PETE PRIDE
Florida’s only Gay beach party of the summer with world renowned deejay, Luis Perez spinning Saturday. Fire & Ice Weekend represents what is so hot about a party on the beach and what is so cool about supporting St. Pete Pride. The very retro Postcard Inn (6300 Gulf Blvd.) on St Pete Beach will play host to the private gay party for the largest pride celebration in Florida on Friday, June 24 from 1 to 7 p.m. Highlights of the weekend include Friday’s Fire Party that includes the hottest pool and beach event of the summer. Friday also includes St. Pete Pride’s Kick-Off Party at Georgie’s Alibi. Saturday will bring the parade and promenade at St Pete Pride. The highlight of the weekend will be the Saturday Ice Party with D.J. Luis Perez. Sunday will focus on a festival Beach Party including our pool party and beach pavillion, dancing on the beach, and the beautiful Gulf of Mexico open for business all day. Later attend the St. Pete Pride Closing Party at Flamingo Resort.

Visit www.alandchuck.travel.com to book a room.

THE SUNDAY BBQ IS BACK
Ybor Resort and Spa, 1512 8th Ave. (15th Street) in Ybor City. Every Sunday at 5 p.m. Lots of hot flavorful guys here lining up for some buns, wieners and other tasty items. Come on down and put some sun on those buns in our open-air tropical Asian-themed patio with Jacuzzi.

FLAMINGO BINGO
Thursdays hosted by Kevin Johnson. Win free drinks and prizes from 8 to 10 pm. Code Bar opens at 7 pm, the Video Bar opens at 10 pm and don’t miss Girl’s Night in the Blu Room, which opens at 11 pm with $3 Miller Lite longnecks. The Flamingo Resort is located at 4601 34th St. S in St. Petersburg.

For more information, visit www.flamingofla.com.

Central Florida

CUCA LA RACHA @ CAMP DRAG
Wednesday, May 25, from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at Parliament House, 410 N Orange Blossom Trail (W Livingston St) in downtown Orlando. Come see Cuca drag it up at Camp Drag. You never know what this crazy girl is going to end up doing so come out to be surprised and entertained.

ELECTRIC DAISY CARNIVAL
Friday, May 27, and Saturday, May 28, from 1pm to 11 pm. North America’s largest electronic music festival comes to Orlando for the first time. Expect a wide array of attractions, full-size carnival rides, art installations and performers. World-class deejays, artists and performers, thousands of beautiful people, massive stages and full-size carnival rides. At Tinker Field, 1610 West Church St. in Orlando.

For more information, visit www.electricdaisycarnival.com.

THE RED BALL
At the Parliament House (410 N Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando) Saturday, May 28, from 7 pm to 2 am. The ticket also gets you into the club for the night to see RuPaul Drag Race Runner Up Manila Luzon and the number one queen from Puerto Rico, Queen Bee Ho joining the Footlight Players. Every room will be decorated with a different style. See Judy Tenuta then enjoy the
rest of the night with all the Red Ball glory included in the price of your Judy Tenuta ticket. Judy, the self described “Love Goddess” and “Aphrodite of the Accordion,” is appropriately described  as “Outrageous Mind-Blowing Comedy”. Don’t forget to wear red!

ORLANDO BLACK PRIDE
May 31 to June 5, 2011; Orlando Black Pride brings thousands of LGBTers together for a long weekend of events and entertainment.

There are parties for the fellas, the ladies and everything in between and you can find all the great events on the official website. So head out to Orlando and get ready to party… www.orlandoblackpride.com.

A NIGHT OF PERPETUAL COMEDY
The Orlando Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence present a night of perpetual comedy on Thursday June 2. featuring the talents of improv comedians formerly of the Comedy Warehouse at Disney’s Pleasure Island and benefitting The Sister Claire Annette Blowood Memorial Granting Fund. Show times are 8 and 10 p.m. Cover: $7 suggested donation. To be held at the Parliament House, 410 N Orange Blossom Trail (W Livingston St) in downtown Orlando.

GAY DAYS AT WALT DISNEY WORLD
June 2 through 5, 2011 in Orlando
The long standing Gay Day at Disney has morphed into a week-long celebration at the theme parks of Orlando. The days are focused on the parks and pool parties, the nights are packed with dance parties at various venues. One point of confusion, two promoters run events during the week, each with their own events and their own host hotels: Gay Days – the original group is still quite popular, especially among folks more interested in the park-focused events and connecting with others.

For a more detailed Gay Disney Events Schedule go here: http://floridaagenda.com/2011/05/19/a-beginners-guide-to-orlando-gay-days/

BACK DOOR BUMBY
Revolution Nightclub (375 S. Bumby Ave (408) in Downtown Orlando) along with GRINDR and MyFlexRadio presents: “Back Door Bumby: Enter Through the Back” every 3rd Thursday of the month. This is Orlando’s premier college night as you’ve never seen it before. No cover when you show your GRINDR or MyFlexRadio App. No cover ‘til 11pm for those 21+ (18+ welcome) and no cover ‘til 12 midnight with college or theme park ID. Free drinks 11 to 11:30 p.m. Drinks specials throughout the night. Performances by: Shantell D’Marco and Macaviti. D.J. Joanie on the decks in the disco area and V.J. J.B. Burgos in the Hydrate Video Bar.

By ALEX VAUGHN & ERIC CHRISTIAN

As Pride comes to Miami Beach we will all be ready to see those muscle hotties in tiny bathers and very little else. If you are spending the weekend in Miami, however, remember it is one of the most stylish cities in the world.

Miami used to be the last stop for the grannies of the world.

Not for a long time have you seen a blue hair parading down Ocean Drive or Lincoln Road. No, Miami is a serious competitor in the global style stakes.

To really get into the Miami vibe, you have choices; uber trendy day casual, swim wear or flashy evening with cool accessories.

To really make Miami style work, borrow from the 70’s and 80’s with silk shirts and linen blazers (sleeves rolled up of course) and for the day, dare to be bear with your swimwear and accessories. Hats are a must and remember: A simple scarf turns a plain suit into effortless chic.

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