Florida Agenda

SAVE Dade:  LGBT Voters Should Be Considered in Re-Districting Debate

MIAMI, FL – Florida, the fourth most populous state in the union, has yet to elect an open LGBT state legislator. The three larger states, California, Texas and New York, have had an openly LGBT representative serve in state elected office. Other, more traditionally conservative states, including Montana, North Carolina, Utah and Wyoming, all have elected LGBT state legislators.
Florida is considered to have the fourth highest population of LGBT people, but gay and transgender people are still not represented in Florida’s state or federal politics.  Florida’s redistricting process could change this if maps are drawn to make concentrated LGBT populations a “community of interest”.

“Florida’s legislative districts unfairly disadvantage LGBT people from being elected to state and federal office and we want to change that,” said C.J. Ortuno, executive director of SAVE Dade. “We have an opportunity to right a wrong by ensuring the redistricting process fairly includes the number of LGBT communities around the state that are recognized by their residents as a community of common interests.

“Not many states have passed statewide legal protections without an openly gay or transgender person carrying the torch in the halls of state or federal government – we want to make sure that the LGBT community is given equal representation for their equal responsibility as productive citizens of our great state,” said Ortuno.

Coastal Cleanup

BROWARD COUNTY, FL – Broward County will be participating in the annual International Coastal Cleanup, sponsored by the Ocean Conservancy. The Cleanup takes place in over 104 countries around the world, typically on the 3rd Saturday of September.

The next event is scheduled for Saturday, September 17th,  from 9 a.m. to noon. Participants should dress accordingly for the weather and be prepared for rain or shine. The Cleanup will only be cancelled due to a tropical storm or hurricane watch or warning.

Last year, almost 1,700 volunteered their time to help clean the beaches in Broward County as part of the 25th Annual International Coastal Cleanup.

Cleanup locations include: Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Oakland Park, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, John U. Lloyd State Park, Dania Beach, Hollywood Beach and Hallandale Beach.

To participate, bring a hat, gloves, sunscreen and water to one of the cleanup locations. For check-in areas and more information, visit www.Broward.org or call 954) 519-1270.

Womenfest Key West

KEY WEST, FL – For over 20 years, Key West has welcomed women from all over the world to Womenfest Key West, the southernmost party for lesbians and their friends. Womenfest offers a wide range of activities guaranteed to appeal to a broad range of interests. Golfing with palm trees and iguanas, clothing-optional pool parties, a sizzling dance club scene and women-only water excursions that range from jet skis to dolphin watching all promising to pique the interest of the more adventurous, while film, live music and special comedy shows offer the opportunity to enjoy paradise at a slower pace. All of this on a tropical island that is close to perfect and far from normal.

Womenfest Key West will be held from September 6th through 11th and is being hosted by the Key West Business Guild.
For more information, visit www.womenfest.com.

Same-Sex Households Up 60% in Tampa Bay Area

TAMPA, FL – The Tampa Tribune reported that the number of same-sex couples living in the Tampa Bay area is up 60% over the last decade, according to results from the 2010 Census. Nearly a fifth of those couples were raising children, also according to the Census.

The Census counted 10,261 same-sex households in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties, up from just under 6,500 in 2000. However, this dramatic growth only represents 1% of total households in the region and the state.

Wilton Manors had the highest percent of same-sex households in the entire state with 6,200 households, or 12%.
Teacher Suspended for Anti-Gay Facebook Comments

MOUNT DORA, FL – A Mount Dora teacher was suspended from the classroom and reassigned pending an investigation by the Lake County School Board after controversial comments he made about same-sex marriages on Facebook.

According to the Orlando Sentinel, Jerry Buell, a long-time Lake County social studies teacher who was chosen Mount Dora High School’s Teacher of the Year, said during a recent Facebook exchange that he “almost threw up” in response to a news story about legalized same-sex marriage in New York. He also posted that same-sex marriages were part of a “cesspool”.

The comments were made on Buell’s personal Facebook page and visible to friends in his network.

Florida G.O.P. U.S. Senate Candidates Vow Gay Marriage Opposition

ORLANDO, FL – Though the Republicans keep saying the next election will be about “jobs, jobs, jobs,” it really appears to be more about social issues.

All of the current Republican Senate candidates, former U.S. Senator George LeMieux, former state Representative Adam Hasner, retired Army Colonel Mike McAlister and businessman Craig Miller, have come out against gay marriage.

According to the Tallahassee Democrat, when asked about New York’s recent legalization of gay marriage, the four Republicans said they supported the federal “Defense of Marriage Act,” which defines marriage as a union of one man and one woman.

Orlando attorney John Stemberger, a founder of the Family Policy Council and who ran the constitutional amendment campaign on marriage three years ago, said the four Republicans articulated strong conservative positions in the debate and that support of social conservatives and Tea Party activists was crucial to electing Florida Governor Rick Scott and Florida’s U.S. Senator Marco Rubio last year, along with some members of the U.S. House and local governing boards.

HOT LEATHER NIGHTS/MR. SAWMILL LEATHER & SAWMILL LEATHER BOY CONTESTS
Friday, August 19, from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Sawmill Camping Resort,
21710 US Highway 98 (Off of Hwy 75 between Tampa and Orlando) in Dade City. Prizes: $1,200 retail prize package including $200 cash, $10 all-you-can-drink beer bust, “Dominatrix” starring Sofonda Cox, guest appearance by Kamden Wells, poolside demonstration by TLC, Boot Black Dire. 15% off accommodations for TLC members. Laser light pool party Friday night with 2-4-1 drinks ‘til midnight, clothing optional pool.

Aids Walk St. Petersburg 2011
Saturday, September 10, registration is from 8:00 a.m. Walk Starts at 10:00 a.m. from the North Shore Park in downtown St. Petersburg. Join them for the 2011 AIDS Walk St. Petersburg in sunny downtown St. Petersburg to benefit members of our community affected and infected by HIV/AIDS. Watch for more information.

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. Remember: what happens at the resort, stays at the resort.

Flamingo Bingo
Thursdays hosted by Kevin Johnson. Win free drinks and prizes from 8 to 10 p.m. Code Bar opens at 7 p.m., the Video Bar opens at 10 p.m. and don’t miss Girl’s Night in the Blu Room, which opens at 11 p.m. 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.

Gay Bowling
First Thursday of each month from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Dunedin Bowling Lanes, 405 Patricia Avenue in Dunedin. For more information, call (727) 736-1282.

FREE DRAG QUEEN BINGO
Every week, you can play BINGO for free and win drinks and prizes at the Flamingo Resort, 4601 34th St S in St. Petersburg.

THE NEARLYWED GAME
Every Thursday night from 8 to 11:55 p.m. at Hamburger Mary’s (1600 7th Avenue in Ybor City). With host Michael Dixon. You won’t want to miss all the fun and laughs as couples who think they know each other find out if they really do. Come watch, or get in on the fun. If you want to be a contestant, call (813) 241-MARY. Reservations are highly recommended!

DAVID MEUELMANS: “AS LONG AS I’M SINGIN’ BACK”

New American Theater’s Summer Cabaret Series continues with cabaret performer David Meulemans in his show “As Long As I’m Singin’”. The 75- minute show features music from Jerry Herman, Gershwin and Sinatra, to name a few. Songs in the show include: “Best of Times,” “Gonna Build a Mountain,” “What a Wonderful World,” “My Way” and many more. David has performed in venues across the country, which included numerous opportunities to perform with musical icons like Carol Channing and Davy Jones. Currently, he is at the 2011 International Cabaret Conference at Yale where he was selected as a feature performer. This fall, he will be headlining his show at the famous Don’t Tell Mama’s cabaret in New York City. Performances will be held on August 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. and August 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the New American Theater Center at BayWalk, 183 2nd Avenue N, St. Petersburg.

BENEFIT FOR THE SONIA PLOTNICK HEALTH FUND

Brunch with Bracewell and Friends at the Pro Star Studios, 3220 28th Street N, Suite #2 in St. Petersburg on Sunday, August 7, from 12 noon to 4 p.m., a benefit for the Sonia Plotnick Health Fund. Brunch will start off with some mellow vocals and jazzy piano by two of the best hidden talents in the Tampa Bay area: Leslie Kille and Rose Stauffer. The Menu includes Three-Cheese and Seasonal Veggie Egg Strata, French Toast Casserole, slices of seasonal fresh fruit, Seafood Newburg crab with rice pilaf and includes Mimosas, Virgin Bloody Marys, coffee and an “all you can eat” yogurt bar. Seating is limited to only 65, so please make your reservations ASAP. Call Pro Star Studios today and get your tickets at (727) 526-0446. Tickets are $25 per person. REPEAT: Only 65 seats available.

5TH ANNUAL STRIKE OUT FOR AIDS

Saturday, August 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. at (Pinchasers, 4847 N. Armenia Avenue in Tampa). Money raised from our Strike Out for AIDS fundraiser help Francis House keep long-standing programs running. These programs include support groups, mental health and substance abuse counseling, medical and housing case management and our daily feeding program. Francis House accomodates over 1,300 client visits each month. Francis House has been providing supportive services to Tampa’s HIV/AIDS community for over 20 years. This event has sold out two years in a row and there are only 128 spots available. Please register early – when the spots are gone, they’re gone. All registrations must be done online at www.strikoutforaids.org.

Miami

AN EVENING OUT WITH JACQUES RENAULT

Friday, June 17, from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. at Bardot, 3456 North Miami Avenue in Miami. Love disco? Come out and enjoy some of the best music on the planet as Nightdrive Miami and Bardot host an evening featuring Jacques Renault. Producer and deejay Renault was a post-punk Washington DC native who moved to Chicago in 1997 to continue his studies of viola, but in turn got a serious education in dance music. Recently voted as Best NYC D.J. for Paper’s Night Life Awards, Jacques has held residencies at New York’s famed venues Happy Ending and Tribeca Grand while currently hosting a 205 Club party showcasing an impressive line-up of weekly guest deejays. Along with friends at DFA Records, Jacques is pushing the disco conscious sweep into the new dance-punk scene. With his edits, original tracks and collaborative project RUNAWAY, he has released music on internationally acclaimed New York labels Italians Do It Better, Editions Disco, and Wurst Edits, while having EP’s slated for Brennan Green’s Chinatown, Cosmo Vitelli’s I’m A Clich, Radio Slave’s Rekids and the new internet only label RCRD LBL. As well as getting coveted spots on the Glimmers’ Eskimo mix and the Lindstrom and Prins Thomas BBC Radio 1 Essential Mix, Mr. Renault appears regularly on Beats In Space, EVR and contributes a weekly show, Runaway Disco, to VIVA Radio.

“LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS”

The Miami Gay Men’s Choir presents “Let’s Hear it for the Boys” on June 17 & 18 at 8 p.m. at the Colony Theater, 1040 Lincoln Road, on Miami Beach.

Boys and boy bands have kept us singing and dancing since the 1050’s – Paul Simon, The Beatles, Elton John, Ricky Martin, The Village People, Elvis Presley and more. Premium seats $35, regular $30, balcony $25. For more information, visit www.miamigaychorus.org.

URGE WITH D.J. ABEL

Sunday, July 3, from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Dream, 1532 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach. The biggest party of Miami Beach Pride returns for the July 4th long weekend. While Dream is one of the most sought after venues on the beach, with superb sound and lighting, they are severely limited in the number of people they can accommodate. Therefore, only 500 advance tickets are being made available, with the first 100 priced at only $20. Prices will increase on a tiered scale, so the sooner you buy tickets, the more you will save. 21 and over. Get tickets exclusively with ShowClix, http://getik.it/52098?f

Fort Lauderdale

OUT FOR LAUGHS

Jessica Kirson: Out for Laughs on Friday, June 17, at 8 p.m. at The Manor Entertainment Complex, 2345 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. For more information; www.pandoraevents.com or call (954) 288-8691.

METAMORPHOSIS

The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida presents Metamorphosis on Friday and Saturday, June 17 & 18, at 8 p.m. at the Sunshine Cathedral, 1480 SW 9th Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, 33315. For more information, visit www.gaymenschorusofsouthflorida. org.

FORT LAUDERDALE BEAR PRIDE POOL PARTY

Saturday, June 18, from 1 to 7 p.m. at The Depot, 2935 N. Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. This is a special no cover event on Saturday afternoon during pride weekend. So, if you have not checked out this new very cool space yet, this will be the time to do it. This party will be sponsored by Gold’s Gym, Pride Factory and Swiss Navy Lube. Gold’s will give out a free week’s pass and a personal training session to everyone who attends. Pride Factory will be giving away gift bags to the first 100 people who show up and Swiss Navy will sponsor a hospitality suite at the hotel. There will also be a $12 beer bust with other drink specials. D.J. Daddy O will be on hand to make sure the groove is just right.

SUMMER SERENADE II

South Florida Symphony, String Quartet, Summer Serenade II, June 21, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Josephine S. Leiser Opera Center, 221 Southwest 3rd Avenue, in Fort Lauderdale. For more information, visit www.southfloridasymphony. org.

LIVING OUT LOUD

Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus: Living Out Loud, Saturday, June 25, at both 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW 5 Avenue, in Fort Lauderdale. For more information, visit browardcenter.org.

RELATIONSHIFTS

Presented by OUTlet. Saturday, June 25. A conference for and by young women ages 15+. RelationSHIFTS is Outlet’s sister conference organized by OUTlet’s young women’s leadership conference devoted to four topics YOU desire to know more about: healthy relationships, healthy sexual intimacy, eating for wellness and healthy bodies and relationship violence. Free to attend, no walk-ins. Register online today at www.Outlet4YoungWomen.com.

DYNAMIC WOMEN

Dynamic Women: Gathering our Resources Together to Make a Difference on Tuesday, June 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. Join Brenda Hartley and the Staff at Bank United, 2723 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors. Please RSVP to (954) 630-3126.

Bay Area

“PROTECT YOUR MONSTER” PARTY

Friday, June 17, from 7 to 10 p.m. at Chelsea Nightclub, 1502 N. Florida Ave. in Tampa. Join the Sister Bonnie Sattva for her Novice Project along with the other Sisters for a night of fun and frivolity as they present Harry Monster and Woo- Woo. Enjoy some Jello shots. Partake in the costume contest with a $25 prize for best outfit. So, bust out your feathers, fur and assorted monster wear. 50/50 raffles and a special safer sex basket will be auctioned off full of all kinds of goodies.

DIXIE LONGATE’S TUPPERWARE PARTY

Friday, June 17, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. It’s not your grandmother’s Tupperware party in conjunction with Florida LEGAL’s Annual Retreat. Be prepared to have great time, drink, laugh ‘til your sides hurt or pee in your pants. Dixie is amazingly funny and will again be donating all the proceeds to Florida LEGAL, Inc. Advanced ticket sales $15 via PayPal on the fla-legal.com website. Make sure to mark your donation payment for Dixie Longate and bring a copy for entrance to the event. Tickets at the door are $20. All donations to FLA-LEGAL, Inc., are Tax Deductable under §501(3)(c). The Flamingo Resort (4601 34th St. S in St. Petersburg) will be providing a full cash bar, menu and table service during the event for your drinking and snacking pleasure. Donations are going to help with the cost of hosting the 2012 International Conference of LGBT Law Enforcement Professionals Conference, to be held in Orlando, FL the last week of May into June, 2012. For more information, go to www.dixiestupperwareparty. com.

SOUND GARDEN T-DANCE

Saturday, June 18, from 2 to 8 p.m. at Chelsea Nightclub, 1502 N. Florida Ave. in Tampa. Power Infiniti and Chhoy Sutimek Productions present “Sound Garden” with hosts Conun Drum and New York singing sensation, Frankie Presley performing live and doing a meet and greet. 3 to 4 p.m. open bar, after 5 p.m. $3 cover. Fire and Ice raffle items, hot music, cool vibe. Frankie was in the former pop group Wow. While with his former group, Frankie, he had the privilege to open for Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez and Sean Kingston. Frankie joined Jason Derulo, Ludacris, Lyaz, T-Pain and many other artists at the Chicago B96s Summer Bash concert in 2010. Frankie can also be seen in multiple issues of Popstar! Magazine, Maximo TV and various interviews on YouTube, on Red Carpet and Charity Events.

Central Florida

ORLANDO GAY PARENTS GROUP

Social group for children of gay parents. Monthly outing to parks, zoos, puppet shows. Geared toward children under 10 years old. For more information, call (407) 420-9955 to receive newsletters and invitations to events.

GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE OF MID-FLORIDA

Rescue can take many forms, from a single individual trying to make a difference by saving one dog to a group of people working together for the common goal of saving many animals. GRRMF concentrates on Golden Retrievers because they are passionately devoted to this breed. All across America, local Golden Retriever clubs are working to save Goldens that show up wandering the streets or in shelters. GRRMF is comprised solely of volunteers and is self-supporting, relying on fund raising and donations to support all rescue efforts including veterinary care. 100% of all donations are used for the rescue effort. GRRMF, Inc. is recognized by and affiliated with The Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc. GRCA is highly supportive of the rescue efforts of all of its member clubs. For more information, contact the Intake Coordinator at 407-332-2840.

BACK DOOR BUMBY

Revolution Nightclub (375 S. Bumby Ave (408) in Downtown Orlando) along with GRINDR (iPhone App) 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.

ORLANDO PRIDE

October 7 through 10. Nationally recognized celebrities and entertainment, respected speakers, scores of vendors, and the longest parade in the history of Orlando Pride all have contributed to this special event that continues to break records for Orlando LGBT festivals in which attendance has doubled or tripled each year. The Come Out with Pride committee is comprised of volunteers who are dedicated to bringing a free, world-class event to Central Florida. For more information, visit www.comeoutwithpride.com.

Fort Lauderdale

BEYOND THE L-WORD Fascinating performance workshop/ lecture on lesbian culture. This workshop/lecture invites participants to enact a colorful range of scenarios taken from lesbian history, lesbian theatre, and lesbian pulp fiction. Discover what has been missing in popular culture-the fierce and fascinating archetypes of women who choose women! Playwright and director Carolyn Gage is the author of more than sixty plays and seven books on lesbian theatre, and in 2009, she won the national Lambda Literary Award in Drama. This is a performance workshop for all abilities, all genders, and all orientations. Audience welcome. Friday, June 10 at 7:30 p.m. at The Pride Center at Equality Park, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors.

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.

UGLY DUCKLINGS WORKSHOPS An anti-bullying workshop confronting teen suicide, Sunday, June 12 at 12 noon at The Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. This workshop involves a hands-on dramatic component, where 30 minutes of key scenes from Gage’s play Ugly Ducklings are presented by participants. This play explores the impact of homophobic policies and harassment on counselors and campers at a girls’ summer camp. The readings are followed by a screening of the documentary, “Ugly Ducklings,” based on Gage’s play, as well as a panel discussion featuring the playwright and others connected with the issues. These workshops are free and open to the public. For more information, call the Women’s Theatre Project at 954-462-2334.

”KEYS TO BUSINESS SUCCESS” Monday, June 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway. The market is changing: Are you? Join Yvonne Rohrbacher for a free preview of “Keys to Small Business Success: Workshop Series. This short presentation will include a free opportunity to self-assess your own business skills and hear an explanation of what business experts consider the main skills crucial for success, including strategic planning, prioritizing and time use, communication and negotiations, sales and customer services and employee selection, training and managing.

Miami

“IN THE NEXT ROOM” OR “THE VIBRATOR PLAY” At GableStage through June 12, 1200 Anastasia Avenue in Coral Gables. GableStage presents The Next Room” or “The Vibrator Play” by Sarah Ruhl through June 12. A comedy about marriage, intimacy and electricity. “A sex comedy for adults with open hearts and minds.” Performances will be held on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturday at 8p.m. and Sundays at 2p.m. and 7p.m. For reservations and information, call (305) 445-1119 or visit www.gablestage.org.

“A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE” The New Theater Presents “A Streetcar Named Desire” now through June 12 at 4120 Laguna Street in Coral Gables. “A Streetcar Named Desire” is by Tennessee Williams. Performances Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 1 and 5:30 p.m. This modern classic follows the decline of a fading Southern belle and the sexy, beer-chugging barbarian responsible for her tragic fall. For more information, visit www.new-theatre.org or call (305) 443-5909.

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.

“LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS” The Miami Gay Men’s Choir presents “Let’s Hear it for the Boys” on June 17 & 18 at 8 p.m. at the Colony Theater, 1040 Lincoln Road, on Miami Beach. Boys and boy bands have kept us singing and dancing since the 1050’s – Paul Simon, The Beatles, Elton John, Ricky Martin, The Village People, Elvis Presley and more. Premium seats $35, regular $30, balcony $25. For more information, visit www.miamigaychorus.org.

Bay Area

SOMEDAY SOUVENIR Friday, June 10 from 8 to 11 p.m. at Play Ybor in Tampa. “Someday Souvenir” is a by request show. Send them a request and they will try and pull it off but hurry to get your request in.

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. Later attend the St. Pete Pride Closing Party at Flamingo Resort. Visit www.alandchuck.travel. com to book a room.

JAGERMEISTER ST. PETE PRIDE PRE-PARTY Friday, June 24 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Celebrate St. Pete Pride at the official kickoff party at Georgies Alibi (3100 3rd Ave. N. in Saint Petersburg) the night before the Street Festival and Promenade. Don’t miss this night of fun with great music, special entertainment, drink specials, giveaways and more. Come out and kick-start the weekend fun. For more information visit www.GeorgiesAlibi.com.

TROPICAL T-DANCE Official St. Pete Pride Closing Party on Sunday, June 26, from 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. 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. For more information visit their website at www.FlamingoFla.com. The Flamingo Resort is located at 4601 34th St. S. in St. Petersburg.

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 Asianthemed patio with Jacuzzi.

Central Florida

ORLANDO GAY PARENTS GROUP Social group for children of gay parents. Monthly outing to parks, zoos, puppet shows. Geared toward children under 10 years old. For more information, call (407) 420-9955 to receive newsletters and invitations to events.

GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE OF MID-FLORIDA Rescue can take many forms, from a single individual trying to make a difference by saving one dog to a group of people working together for the common goal of saving many animals. GRRMF concentrates on Golden Retrievers because they are passionately devoted to this breed. All across America, local Golden Retriever clubs are working to save Goldens that show up wandering the streets or in shelters. GRRMF is comprised solely of volunteers and is self-supporting, relying on fund raising and donations to support all rescue efforts including veterinary care. 100% of all donations are used for the rescue effort. GRRMF, Inc.

is recognized by and affiliated with The Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc. GRCA is highly supportive of the rescue efforts of all of its member clubs. For more information, contact the Intake Coordinator at 407-332-2840.

BACK DOOR BUMBY Revolution Nightclub (375 S. Bumby Ave (408) in Downtown Orlando) along with GRINDR (iPhone App) 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.

ORLANDO PRIDE October 7 through 10. Nationally recognized celebrities and entertainment, respected speakers, scores of vendors, and the longest parade in the history of Orlando Pride all have contributed to this special event that continues to break records for Orlando LGBT festivals in which attendance has doubled or tripled each year. The Come Out with Pride committee is comprised of volunteers who are dedicated to bringing a free, world-class event to Central Florida. For more information, visit www.comeoutwithpride.com.

Fort Lauderdale

BEAR  NATION  T-DANCE

Sunday Mar 27 from 6 to 11 p.m. at The Manor Entertainment Complex, 2345 Wilton Dr. in Wilton Manors. A monthly special event featuring Bear deejay, Bill James, spinning the classics and the music you love to dance and sing along to. Hot man dancers and flaggers too. $15 import beer buckets, $12 domestic beer buckets. Drink, dance and be hairy.

“The best little whorehouse in texas”

The Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus is presenting their first fully staged production of a musical – “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” with a twist. All roles, including those traditionally played by women, will be played by men. This show is for mature audiences. The Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus production of “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” will be presented on Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2, 2011 at 8 p.m. at the Parker Playhouse in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets are $25, $35 and $45, plus $1.50 parking fee and any handling charges that may apply.

Tickets are now available through the Parker Playhouse website, www.parkerplayhouse.com, the Broward Center Box Office in person, or at (954) 462-0222, from www.TheFTLGMC.org, or through chorus members.

THE STARS SHINE BRIGHT

Mark your calendars for Sunday, April 3 from 4 to 6 p.m. for the 2011 Stars of the Rainbow honorees represent individuals, businesses and organizations that exemplify the spirit of volunteerism and/or activism. Honorees have represented the LGBT community in a positive light, and have supported the efforts of the Pride Center.

Only a limited number of $150 tickets are still available for what promises to be the social event of the season located in the Crystal Ballroom at the Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six, 2301 S.E. 17th Street Causeway in Fort Lauderdale. To purchase tickets go to, starsoftherainbow.com.

This year’s event will be hosted by Bishop S. F. Makalani MaHee and Donna Woessner and includes great entertainment, terrific hors d’oevres, cocktails, and outstanding company and fellowship in service to our community.
For information about additional underwriting and sponsorship opportunities, please contact David Yalen, Membership Development Coordinator at (954) 463-9005 or email dyalen@pridecenterflorida.org

Central Florida

NIGHT  OF  HOPE

3rd annual Night of Hope: Benefiting the Hope & Help Center at Revolution, Thursday Mar 24 from 8:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. at Revolution Nightclub, 375 S. Bumby Ave in downtown Orlando. Hosted by Neema and Chantel Reshae with special guest, Miss Florida USofA, Deloris Van Cartier. Doors open at 9:30 p.m. Cover $5, suggested donation. 100% of the proceeds benefit The Hope and Help Center of Central Florida. Complimentary champagne. Showtime at 10 p.m. Performances by Angelica Sanchez, Jahnelle Mizion, Alana Michaels Adonis, Kai’ja Adonis, Baby Blue, Kitana Infiniti, Bella Adonis, Christopher McIntyre, Adriana Infinity, Atomic Adonis and many more. Reserved seats or questions, contact Jose Marrero at (407) 421-6979.

ORLANDO  WHITE PARTY

Saturday Apr. 16, 2011 from 8:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Parliament House, 410 N Orange Blossom Trail in downtown Orlando. Time to start planning for one of Orlando’s biggest parties of te year. Featuring Juju Bee, Alexis Mateo, Shangela and Yara Sofia. D.J. Brianna Lee spinning the hits for “Elevate” White attire encouraged. Rooms are going fast. Book now at www.parliamenthouse.com.

“EROTICA” ORLANDO’S HOTTEST PARTY

The art of seduction! This is always a giant event with adult video stars everywhere. Meet with the stars starting at 10:30 p.m. and autographs at 1 a.m. Vendors in the courtyard. This is one you don’t want to miss, it’s one of the biggest events of the year, so make your reservations now rooms are limited. Lots and lots of half-naked men everywhere. Don’t forget you can also get a great bite to eat or a gourmet steak at the Rainbow Cafe. Saturday, Mar 26, from 10 to 2 a.m. at the Parliament House, 410 N Orange Blossom Trail (W Livingston St) in Orlando.

Babes in Bonnets Fundraiser at Parliament House

Monday, Apr 18, 7 to 9:30 p.m., Parliament House, 410 N Orange Blossom Trail in downtown Orlando. This is a citywide event benefiting the Orlando Youth Alliance (OYA), a local charity that provides free of charge, peer-to-peer support groups, education and a positive environment for Orlando’s LGBT youth. Hosted by: Darcel Stevens & Michael Wanzie.

MISS HEART  OF ORLANDO PAGEANT

This is a preliminary to Miss Heart Of Florida. Monday, Apr. 18,  from 9 to 12 p.m. at Mr. Sister’s, 5310 E Colonial Dr. in Orlando.

Miami

PANDORA EVENTS: DESCARGA

Saturday Mar 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Bar 721, 721 North Lincoln Lane on South Beach. A monthly Latin night filled with beautiful women. Special guest, D.J. Vixen playing a hot mix of your favorite Latin sounds with go-go dancers and live entertainment. Great new prices. $4 domestic beer, $5 imported beer, doors open at 10 p.m., 21 and over.

AIDS  WALK MIAMI

Sunday Apr 3 from 7 to 10 a.m. Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Dr. on Miami Beach.  Join our grand marshal, Jai Rodriguez, Bravo Network’s “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” for the  23rd annual AIDS `Walk Miami, a 5K (3.1 mile) walk-a-thon fundraiser benefiting Care Resource.
Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. at the Miami Beach Convention Center followed by the opening ceremonies and invocation at 8:30 a.m. The Walk begins promptly at 9:00 a.m. and is followed by a post-walk celebration at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens featuring complimentary drinks, snacks, vendor booths and entertainment sponsored by MTV Latin America.

Join as an individual, join a team or start a Walk team of your very own. Raise a minimum of $50 and receive an official AIDS Walk Miami T-shirt on the morning of the event.

Please contact us at 305-751-WALK (9255) or by email at info@careresource.org.

SIZZLE  MIAMI

May 26-Jun 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. Everyone is encouraged to participate.

For more information, visit http://sizzlemiami.com/

LADY GAGA MONST

BALL

Wednesday Apr 13, 2011 from 8 to 11 p.m. at the American Airline Arena in Miami. The Scissor Sisters and Semi Precious Weapons have been selected as the opening acts for the third North American leg of Lady Gaga’s Monster Ball tour.

MEET  ME AT THE MOVIES!

The Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, a critically acclaimed event, is based in the world-renowned historic South Beach neighborhood and screens films and videos in locations throughout Miami-Dade county and Ft.

Lauderdale. The 13th Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival will run in April and May of 2011.

Bay Area

HAMBURGER MARY’S WELCOMES MISS CONCEPTION

Friday Mar 25 from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at Hamburger Mary’s, 1600 E. 7th Ave. in Tampa. From Los Angeles, CA, Miss Conception has captivated audiences with her amazing talent for make-up and entertainment. A former headliner in Las Vegas, she has been able to create illusions and impersonations which have filled theaters on the west coast. Now she comes to Hamburger Mary’s on her Florida tour to join Daphne Ferraro’s Doll House Show for one night only. Do not miss this amazing entertainer. Also the Doll House will welcome “Miss Black America 2010”, Champagne Bordeaux and another mistress of illusion, Kathryn Nevets. This show will be packed so please RSVP now: (813) 241-MARYS.

18 FORE LIFE GOLF TOURNAMENT

Saturday Mar. 26 from 1 to 6 p.m. at Rocky Point Golf Club, 4151 Dana Shores Drive in Tampa. Join MCC Tampa, Francis House and Metropolitan Charities as they host the 3rd annual 18 Fore Life Golf Tournament. Individual golfers: $85, foursomes $300. (Prices will soon go up.) Fees include 18 holes of golf, lunch, goodie bag and award dinner. Great sponsorship opportunities available as well. Don’t miss out on this great chance to participate, advertise and, most importantly, play golf! Please contact MCC Tampa, Francis House, or Metropolitan Charities for further information.

Drag king idol 2

Come out for the second Drag King Idol 2 which runs every Thursday in March. Grand prize $250 for the finals on March 31st. 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. at Flamingo Resort, 4601 34th St. S in St. Petersburg. Some of the guest performers and judges are: Madisyn Michaels DelaMer, Dani Panic, King Aramis, D.J. Stacey X, Jo Jo, Teddy D, Tariq, Frankie J. Marstone, Michael Keefe, Lasha, Crystal and Natasha. No cover.

A twisted fetish gathering…

Sunday Mar 20 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Chelsea Nightclub, 1502 N. Florida Ave. in Tampa. Our fetish “men’s” special opening is from 2 to 3 p.m. and continues ‘til 6 p.m. or later. The bar officially opens at 3 p.m. for all. Get together to socialize, have a cigar or two, experience a demo, Bootblacking services and maybe learn about the Brotherhood of community bonding … it’s open to all fetishes, rubber, skin, bear, leather, and gear.

For more information, contact tbrulesz@gmail.com.

TAMPA, FL – Just 24 hours after Equality Florida called for the replacement of notoriously anti-gay activist Terry Kemple from a board tasked with supporting equality, more than 700 people have contacted the Hillsborough County Commission demanding action.

By a 5-2 vote, Kemple was appointed to the Human Relations Board whose purpose is to, “encourage equality among all people.”

“People are speaking up because they are outraged by the appointment of someone who opposes equality, the very thing this board is supposed to represent,” said Nadine Smith, executive director for Equality Florida.

Kemple articulates an absolutist view — that homosexuals are stealing children from Christians by indoctrinating the young to gay lifestyles. He calls it the “homosexual agenda.” Gay marriages pose the biggest threat of all.

Terry Kemple is a leader in the Florida Coalition to Protect Marriage. He is responsible for bringing in the Hillsborough County vote in November for Amendment 2. It would cast in state constitutional stone marriage between men and women only.

No gay marriages. No legal unions. No exceptions.

“People are speaking up because they are outraged by the appointment of someone who opposes equality, the very thing this board is supposed to represent,” said Nadine Smith, executive director for Equality Florida.

FORT LAUDERDALE

VEGAS NIGHT—CHIPS FOR CHARITY Wilton Manors Council and Gay & Lesbian Business Exchange (GLBX) announces its first fundraising reception. Vegas Night – Chips for Charity, will take place on Thursday, Jan. 13 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Hagen Park, 2020 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors. Admission is $40 per person and includes tastings from local restaurants, five hours of gaming, live music, and open bar service. The event will raise money for the Chamber and Kids in Distress. For more information, call 954-462-4911 or e-mail Dan@FTLChamber.com.

“A CHRISTMAS CAROL” What would Christmas be without Charles Dickens’ beloved tale. The Empire State Theater at 1140 North Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, is presenting a oneman version Thursday – Saturday until Dec. 25. Scott Sowers, who recently appeared in HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire,” plays all the parts. For showtimes, tickets and information, call (954) 678-1496 or visit www.empirestage.com.

“BROADWAY BOUND” BY NEIL SIMON The Boca Raton Theater Guild Presents “Broadway Bound” by Neil Simon Jan. 7-16 at the Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park, 301 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton. Showtimes are at 8 p.m. (Wednesday – Saturday) and 2 p.m. (Saturday & Sunday). Tickets are $18. For more information, call (561) 948-2601 or visit www.brtg.org.

“ROCK OF AGES” Broadway Across America presents the highly-acclaimed “Rock of Ages,” Dec. 28 – Jan. 9 at the Broad Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets start at $21. “Rock of Ages” is an arena-rock love story told through the mind-blowing, facemelting hits of JOURNEY, NIGHT RANGER, STYX, REO SPEEDWAGON, PAT BENATAR, TWISTED SISTER, POISON, ASIA, WHITESNAKE and many more. Don’t miss this awesomely good time about dreaming big, playing loud and partying on featuring some of the greatest hits of the ’80s. For more information, call (954) 462-0222 or visit www.browardcenter. org.

MIAMI

MIAMI INTERNATIONAL ART FAIR It’s time for the Miami International Art Fair (MIA) in Miami Beach, Jan.

13-17, 2011 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Hall D, 1901 Convention Center Drive. Come experience America’s most exciting midwinter contemporary art fair. MIA will be an inaugurating, intriguing and unique new model this year, combining a highly selective art fair with a strong, central curatorial vision, in addition to independently curated projects. Highlighting MIA in 2011 is the special installation Museum of Modern Ice, bringing Canadian artist Gordon Halloran’s dazzling paintings in ice to sunny South Florida for the first time. Tickets are $50 in advance and $75 at the door. For more information, call (239) 949 5411.

JUMP! SUNDAYS Edison Farrow, Omar Gonzalez and Tony Ferro present JUMP! Sundays, South Beach’s new hot spot on Sunday nights. Doors open at 10 p.m. with free Svedka vodka drinks until 11 p.m. Admission is $10. JUMP! takes place at Lux (formerly Liquid Niteclub), 1439 Washington Ave., Miami Beach.

BARTON G PRESENT CHEYENNE JACKSON The star of “GLEE,” “30 ROCK” and BROADWAY’S “XANADU” will be on hand to ring in the New Year on Friday, Dec. 31 & Saturday, Jan. 1 Tickets are $75 and $95and are available by calling (305) 357-7900 or visiting www.preludebybartong.com. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. Venue is located at 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Stepping up to a new arena of entertainment which now counts three successful restaurants, The Villa By Barton G (former Versace Mansion) and a corporate events division that services national and international clients, New Year’s Eve will mark the entry of restaurateur/hotelier Barton G. Weiss’ newest venture, PRELUDE BY BARTON G PRESENTS.

GEORGE BALANCHINE’S “THE NUTCRACKER” Miami City Ballet presents George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker,” Dec. 23 at the Adrienne Arsht Center Ziff Ballet Opera House, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. This production is a magical treat for young and old. Miami City Ballet’s production boasts beautiful sets, lavish costumes and magical special effects. A large, talented cast present a holiday treat for the entire family. For ticket information, call (305) 949-6722. Prices vary.

BAY AREA

DRAG BINGO BENEFIT Nicky Summers Drag BINGO Benefit night on Wednesday, Dec. 29 from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at Hamburger Mary’s Bar & Grill Tampa, 1600 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. Proceeds from this night to benefit Nicky Summers in her quest to capture the title of “Miss Large and Lovely.” Come support your hometown girl as she prepares to compete in something she truly believes in. BINGO starts at 7:30 p.m. Hosted by Amy Demilo (“Miss Heart of Florida”). Free Jello shots and performances by the girl of the hour. Reservations are highly recommended. Call (813) 241-6279 or Nicky at (813) 447-5786.

MASQUERADE BALL AT FLAMINGO Friday, Dec. 31 from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. at Flamingo Resort, 4601 34th St. S., St. Pete. The event will star comedienne Chtistine O’Leary at 10 p.m. Evening includes a mask contest and Burlesque show at 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. amd a champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. Holiday buffet dinner for $24.95. For reservations, call (727) 321-5000. Two seatings: 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Party in the Blu Room until 5 a.m. Visit www.FlamingoFLA.com for more information.

“NEW YEAR’S EVE IN WHITE” PARTY Hosted by Steam Fridays/Tease Saturdays at The Honey Pot, 1507 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City on New Year’s Eve from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. Join over a thousand of your closest friends and ring in the New Year at Tampa Bay’s biggest LGBT party. Honey Pot will be all decked out in fabulous white with special lighting and effects along with three floors of entertainment, great dance videos in the main room and Hip Hop/Top 40 on the third floor. A special drag show at 11 p.m. with the state’s top divas, lots of free party favors and champagne toast at midnight followed by an amazing production number by Macaviti and Company. White attire suggested. Doors open at 9 p.m. with no cover before 9:30 p.m. and $10 cover after 9:30 p.m. Enjoy $1 drinks from 9 p.m. to10 p.m.

DRAG QUEEN BINGO FOR GAGME 2011 At Hamburger Mary’s Bar & Grill, 1600 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City on Wednesday, Jan. 5 from 8 p.m. to midnight. Most everyone knows the fun at Mary’s on Wednesday nights, so head out there for the first Wednesday of the New Year and enjoy some fun Drag Queen BINGO. The cost is $10 per set of BINGO. Invite all of your friends as the proceeds for this event will directly benefit GAGME 2011 and the charities that it supports.

CENTRAL FLORIDA

FELIZ NAVIDAD Christmas Eve Celebration: Feliz Navidad on Friday, Dec. 24 from 10:30 p.m. to 3:30 a.m. at Revolution Nightclub, 375 S. Bumby Ave., Orlando. Orlando’s hottest Christmas Eve celebration with no cover until 11 p.m. for 21+ (18+ welcome). Free drinks from 11 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Ladies of the Majestic Theater Shows at 11 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. featuring: Lisa Lane, Maya Andrews, Selena, Susan Whitney and special guest Kimora Santi. D. Lui Lou spinning Latin house, freestyle, salsa, merengue and dance in the main room. DJ Infinite dropping the hottest beats in hip/hop, top 40s, old school and more in the Hydrate Video Bar.

PULSATE CHRISTMAS Saturday, Dec. 25 from 10 p.m. to 3:30 a.m. at Pulse, 1912 S. Orange Ave., Orlando. Complimentary valet. Come and check out your favorite things and have a chance to win fabulous gifts. 18+ welcome, 21+ no cover before 11 p.m. DJ Scott Robert with “The Official Night of House Music.” Showtime at 12:30 a.m. hosted by Blade Mathews and Roxxxy Andrews with Tyra Sanchez and Axel Andrews. Featuring the Pulse dancers, Orlando’s hottest dancers up close and personal.

SIP’S NEW YEAR’S BLOWOUT Party at Sip, 724 Virginia, Orlando from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. Everyone is invited to party it up big time at Sip this New Year’s Eve. DJ Di will let you sing away 2010 with karaoke and then DJ Sketchy will mix it up to dance into the New Year. Free champagne at midnight and party favors for all guests.

MASQUERADE BALL New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball at Pulse, 1912 S Orange Ave., Orlando from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. Free champagne toast at midnight. DJ Scott Robert spinning the top hits from the past 10 years. Showtime 12:30 a.m. hosted by Angelica Sanchez, Roxxxy Andrews and Blade Mathews. Great New Year’s drink specials and more.

Fort Lauderdale

GILDA RETURNS TO THE MANOR

She’s back for Christmas at The Manor with new holiday songs and some new dresses too. Come hear her stories about her years in Hollywood, on Broadway and on television. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you won’t believe a word of it. Dec. 9 – 11 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 or $35 for VIP. Call 1- 800-838-3006 or visit www.brownpapertickets. com/event/136281.

A NIGHT WITH ACTRESS LESLIE CARON

The Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLiFF) hosts two evenings with Oscar® nominated actress Leslie Caron. Fans can join Caron on Friday, Dec. 10 for a tribute film and book signing event at Cinema Paradiso, 503 SE Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale; and on Dec.11 for the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade. Tickets for the FLiFF tribute evening are $30 in advance/$35 at the door. FLIFF Member price is $25 in advance/$30 at the door. Tickets for the Winterfest Boat Parade are $150 for general admission/$125 for FLiFF members, and must be purchased in advance.

WIN BRUNCH 2011

Women in Network (WIN) will be holding a special brunch at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 9, at the Torch Club. The brunch will include entertainment and there will be a t-dance following the brunch with music provided by Bonnie. Tickets are $25, which includes brunch, two drinks, entertainment, the t-dance and tax and gratuity. Admission to just attend the t-dance is $10 and starts at 3 p.m. For more information, call Geri/Joyce at (954) 354-0548 or Toni at (954) 565-0094.

“HOLIDAY TREASURES” CONCERT

Join us on Wednesday, Dec. 15 for a very special holiday concert as the Fort Lauderdale Women’s Chorus and the South Florida Pride Jazz Ensemble present “Holiday Treasures,” a fun-filled romp through your holiday favorites. The Jazz Ensemble will perform familiar tunes with a jazzy twist while the Women’s Chorus will put you in the holiday spirit as they perform everything from traditional hymns to the hysterical “Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer.” The concert begins at 8 p.m. and will take place at Broward Center for the Performing Arts, New River Room, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale. Tickets can be purchased at www.browardcenter.org/fortlauderdalewomenschorus

Miami

MIAMI INTERNATIONAL ART FAIR

It’s time for the Miami International Art Fair (MIA) in Miami Beach, Jan. 13-17, 2011 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Hall D, 1901 Convention Center Drive. Come experience America’s most exciting mid-winter contemporary art fair. MIA will be an inaugurating, intriguing and unique new model this year, combining a highly selective art fair with a strong, central curatorial vision, in addition to independently curated projects. Highlighting MIA in 2011 is the special installation Museum of Modern Ice, bringing Canadian artist Gordon Halloran’s dazzling paintings in ice to sunny South Florida for the first time. Tickets are $50 in advance and $75 at the door. For more information, call (239) 949 5411.

MIAMI GAY MEN’S CHORUS HOLIDAY CONCERT – DEC.

On Friday, Dec. 10 and Saturday Dec. 11, the Miami Gay Men’s Chorus will present their annual holiday concert at 8 p.m. with special guest Sharon Gless. This year’s performance, “Destination Holiday,” will be at the Lincoln Theater, 541 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Come fly with them as they take you through a musical journey of song and dance around the world. Tickets are $25, $30 and $35. For tickets or more information, visit www.miamigaychorus.org.

MDGLCC TOY DRIVE & HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

Please join the Miami Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce for a toy drive and holiday celebration on Thursday, Dec. 16 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the LGBT Visitor’s Center, 1130 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Please bring an unwrapped toy to benefit the Miami Beach Police Toy Drive.There will be an open bar, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a DJ, a visit from Santa Claus and other special surprises. Please RSVP to Stephanie@tma-pr.com or call (305) 673-4440.

SANDPIPERS NETWORKING EVENT

Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce presents its monthly Sandpipers networking event on Wednesday, Dec. 15 at 5 p.m. The event will take place at Angler’s Resort Hotel, 660 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. There will be a cash bar and free hors d’oeuvres. The event is limited to 50 people. Call (305) 673-4440 or email mdglcc@bellsouth.net.

Bay Area

CHRISTMAS PARTY FATURING DJ ALYSON CALAGNA

will be held at G-Bar, 1401 E. Seventh Ave., in Ybor City on Saturday Dec. 11 from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. No cover until 10 p.m. and a $5 cover after. $1 drinks from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Doors open at 9 p.m.. The entire club will be decked out for the holidays by Mathieu.

LEATHER BENEFIT

The Tampa Leather Club will hold a Leather Benefit for Francis House at the Ybor Eagle, 1909 N. 15th St., in Ybor City. Francis House has been providing spiritual, emotional, educational help to individuals and families infected, affected and at-risk for HIV/AIDS.

FUNDRAISER FOR THE ST. PETERSBURG MEN’S CHORUS

The Gay St. Pete House will he holding a fundraiser for the St. Petersburg Men’s Chorus on Thursday, Dec. 23 at the Gay St. Pete House, 4505 Fifth Ave., N., Saint Petersburg. Enjoy a relaxing evening poolside with incredible eats, full open bar, live entertainment and plenty of holiday cheer. No gifts, but please make a donation to the chorus. All proceeds from your donation goes to the chorus. For more information, visit www.stpetemenschorus.com.H STEAM

FRIDAYS CHRISTMAS PARTY

DJ Manny Lehman will headline at Steam Fridays’ Christmas Party, to be held at The Honey Pot, 1507 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. The party will be held on Friday, Dec. 17 from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. D.J. The club will be transformed into the “Nutcracker Suite” and will come to life with aerialists performing and so much more. Doors open at 10 p.m. with no cover until 10:30 p.m. and $10 after. $1 drinks for everyone from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m.

FLAMINGO TURNABOUT

The first-ever turnabout at the Flamingo Resort. All the money raised will go to benefit A.S.A.P. Don’t miss this event as everyone will be in rare form and it will be the only time you will see most of the staff dressed up and performing. Make your plans now to attend on Thursday, Dec. 9 from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. at the Flamingo Resort, 4601 34th St. S., St. Petersburg.

HOLIDAY HOOPLA!

The Gulfport Merchants Association presents Holiday Hoopla on Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit Operation Santa, The Gulfport Senior Center Foundation, and Get Rescued. Admission is free. Brighten your holidays with a visit to Beach Boulevard in Gulfport at the Holiday Hoopla. For more information, call (727) 322-5217 or visit www.gulfportma.com.H

Central Florida

“A CHRISTMAS CAROL: A GHOST STORY OF CHRISTMAS”

… is being performed now through Dec. 19 at the Garden Theatre, 160 West Plant St., Winter Garden. Dickens’ classic family tale ushers in the holiday season and the wonderful sprit (or spirits) of Christmas. Film and television star Dennis Neal portrays the miser Ebenezer Scrooge. Performances are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets: $24 ($20 seniors/students) $10 for children under 12 on Thursdays and Sundays. For more information, visit www.gardentheatre.org.

FA-LA-LA-LA FABULOUS

This Orlando Gay Chorus concert will feature many of your favorite songs and some new tunes, too. Once again, OGC will be serving as a collection site for the U.S. Marine Corps’ “Toys for Tots” programand will mark its 20th year of collecting for “Toys for Tots.”Your generous donations of toys have brought joy to thousands of deserving children in Central Florida. Just bring any unwrapped toy to either show for collection. Two performances: Dec. 11 and 12 at The Plaza Theatre, 425 North Bumby Ave., Orlando. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased at www.orlandogaychorus. org.

“GOD HELP US, EVERYONE”

Ashton Kutcher, Lucille Ball, Joan Crawford, Miss Piggy and Cher (or at least their impersonators) present “A Glittering Star-Studded Christmas Carol” on Saturdays, Dec. 11 and 18 starting at 7:30 p.m. in the Footlight Theater at the Parliament House, 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando.

CLAUS FOR PAWS – THE ROAD RALLY ADVENTURE

A four-person auto adventure with stops and fun along the way throughout downtown Orlando on Dec. 11. Entry fee $100 per team. Presented by and a fundraiser for the Sunshine Invitational Tournament, and a portion of the proceeds benefit Paws Care, which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping to care for the pets of those affected by HIV/AIDS, cancer and other terminal and devastating illnesses. For more details, visit www.sitorlando.org/fundraising.

“THE NEARLYWED GAME”

at Hamburger Mary’s in Orlando, will be held on Saturday, Dec. 18. This is a fun and new twist of the classic TV game show, “The Newlywed Game.” Each month, six couples (same-sex and opposite sex couples) will compete to see who knows, or thinks they know, each other the best. For more information, visit www.hamburgermarysorlando. com.H

The Bay area’s gay scene offers great dining and plenty of nightlife action

Tampa Bay is a world hidden in plain view. Kindness is the rule here, and it doesn’t seem to run out. Tampa and St. Petersburg conceal a busy and unpretentiousness gay community, and every month advocate groups come together to support worthy gay causes. They are focused and can be very sophisticated but maintain their innocence. Guys are sweet, friendly and pleasant. Words like “sincerity,” “downto- earth” and “reality” have meaning here, yet the outside world doesn’t seem to take notice.

Ybor City and St. Petersburg Nightlife

Every week an anxious crowd gathers in front of the Honey Pot (Friday) and G-Bar (Saturday) waiting for the doors to open. They stand smiling in good cheer, even on the days that odd groups of bigots spew hatred from megaphones across the street. Eyes twirl upon hearing crazy megaphone magnified speeches spreading words of nonsense, yet no one speaks ill-will in return.

The gay nightclubs are all located near each other, close to the main drive of Seventh Avenue. Hundreds of lively nightclubs and restaurants line the bright street for nearly a mile and thousands of people frequent the clubs each week.

On a recent weekend, NOH8, a powerful antidiscrimination organization with a big presence in Ybor City, had a fundraiser at the Honey Pot. During the event, NOH8 tattoos were applied to the donators’ cheeks, and duct tape was placed across the lips. It looked like a hostage crisis. Newly created “victims without say” were photographed. It was so crowded that lines backed up for the pictures.

Steve Moss, owner of the Honey Pot and G-Bar (two mega mainstream gay bars), is friendly, fun and sees to everyone’s festivities. The staff is top notch, and drinks are $1 before 11 p.m.

“I like everyone to be included”, said Moss of his bars and the community.

Ybor is also home to Streetcar Charlie’s, a beautiful bar and restaurant whose manager, Charles Moresci, is as laid back as the scene itself. “You can say anything you want as long as it’s nice,” said Moreci.

The thing is, there really are only nice things to say about Streetcar Charlie’s. The food is great, and the bartenders really know how to take care of their customers.

The Eagle, Ybor City, is the area’s premier leather bar. But, on Thursday nights it hosts a popular event called “Social Cub,” which is in essence a college night. The club also features various performers on the weekend.

According to a promoter, The Eagle will have an Indy pop-rock night, and the Cataracts Band has already performed at the club.

In St. Petersburg, Georgie’s Alibi is as popular as it is in Ft. Lauderdale. The difference is that parking is never an issue. Huge lots surround the club.

Thursday, as usual, is popular Long Island Iced Tea night. Its patrons are friendly, and you’ll find an absence of attitude here.

On Dec. 2, the Alibi will host Morgan McMichaels – a Rupaul sensational drag show, and on Dec. 17 the venue will host Pandoras Box drag show.

Additionally, don’t forget to mark Jan. 28-30 on your calendar, which is El Gancho Party weekend. It is one of Ybor’s biggest circuit parties, held at the Castle on Friday night and at the Ritz Ybor Theatre on Saturday night.