“Currently, there are over 15,000 openly transgender people proudly serving in our military. This morning, those 15,000 patriotic transgender people woke up to learn that their Commander-in-Chief called them a “burden” and a “disruption” via a string of tweets. Countless trans people have bravely fought and died for our country, while Trump received five deferments from the Vietnam war draft. The contrast could not be more striking.”
-GINA LEIGH DUNCAN, Director of Transgender Equality, Equality Florida
“Donald Trump has… put a target on the backs of 15,000 transgender troops proudly serving in our military. This heinous and disgusting action endangers the lives of American service members, undermines military readiness and makes our country less safe. It is also the latest effort by Trump and Mike Pence to undo our progress and drag LGBTQ people back into the closet by using our lives as political pawns.”
-CHAD GRIFFIN, president, Human Rights Campaign
“To our 15,000 transgender brothers and sisters currently serving in the military and to those who had aspirations to serve and protect us and our country… as former military, I stand with you, I support you, and you matter!! Keep the faith; you have many people fighting for you, as you have dedicated yourselves to fight for us.”
-TERRY DeCARLO, GLBT Community Center of Central Florida
“Transgender people show more courage when they leave their f—ing houses in the morning than Donald Trump has shown his entire life…”
-MATT BELLASSAI, social media commentator
“The previous administration ended an 18-year ban on gays and lesbians serving openly in the military, and ensured same-sex partner benefits and workplace protections to LGBT federal contractors throughout the service branches – citing moral and economic imperatives for doing so. The Trump administration must realize what damage blocking transgender service members will do for our military readiness and economic health.”
-JUSTIN NELSON and CHANCE MITCHELL, president and CEO, respectively, of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, in a statement.
On June 4th of this year, Chip Wegner was named the first ever Mr. Gay Days Leather. With any contest or pageant title comes a journey filled with responsibilities and charitable quests throughout the year of the title holding. Hotspots Central recently sat down with Chip and asked him about his Journey (past, present and future) of being the first Mr. Gay Days Leather.
1 – What got you into the leather scene and how long have you been a part of it?
When I first came out I wasn’t interested in female impersonators or dancing. (This is manly what my local gay bar offered, so I explored other options.) I identified more with the bear crowd, which lead me down the path to leather. I found leather to be masculine, enticing, mysterious, and erotic. The thought of being dominated by a guy in full dress leather, being shown different kinks, being part of a leather club, this was all very alluring for me, and it is a path I chose to follow.
As far as how long, I guess it’s always been in my heart, but actively pursued since 1987. Maybe the interested peeked or was instilled with Glenn Hughes from the Village people in 1977. My first harness was fashioned after his, out of dog leashes and metal o-rings. I wore it to my first IML/Bear Pride in 1995 with a vest, boots, blue jeans and leather baseball cap.
2 – Have you ever competed in any competitions in the past and if so, did you place?
I have, I was Mr. Bear Pride in 2001, and I was also Northern Plains Leather Sir 2012.
There were a few other contests along the way, with runner up placements.
This was the 6th contest that I have been involved with, so to those of you that get discouraged because you did not place, keep at it. Use your previous attempts as learning tools, get your judges score sheet if you can and pay close attention to the judge’s comments.
3 – Why did you decide to participate in the Mr. Gay Days Leather 2017 competition?
A few friends of mine encouraged me to enter.
4 – With it being the first year, how do you think the competition went?
With this being a brand new competition, I was very impressed with how it went.
5 – What was your initial reaction when you heard your name announced as the winner of Mr. Gay Days Leather 2017?
I was in a little bit of shock and surprise. It really hit about an hour after the pool parties, when I was in my room. I shed a lot of happy tears and started realizing the journey that I had ahead of me. I was actually wishing two guys that I refer to as my dad’s would have been there to share in the joy, and help calm me down.
6 – With any title comes responsibilities and charitable quests throughout the year of your title holding. What do you plan to do and why is that a passion of yours?
I am a big dog lover, and locally we have a nonprofit no kill dog rescue, I am in the process of having vest pins made and will be asking for a $5.00 donation per pin with profits going to this rescue.
When I am traveling to events with my title, if any group needs help raising money and I have time to help, all they need to do is ask I am more than willing to lend a hand.
I would like to use my title to spread the message of Unity. We are one global GLBT family.
The infighting and division/labeling of groups/individuals, the fat shaming, slut shaming, PrEP shaming needs to stop. United we stand, divided we fall.
As a title-holder, we represent our community, we need to lead by example. This is a give back to our community. There are some organizations that either don’t qualify for federal or state funding that do good in our communities whether it is an animal rescue or an STD/HIV free clinic. These are the organizations that we need to support. I am hoping that our examples of charity work, volunteering and fund raising will get more people involved no matter what generation they are from, title holder or not.
7 – Are you excited to compete in IML 2018?
This is IML’s 40th anniversary, and I am very excited that I get to be a part of it as a contestant.
8 – If you could give any advice to someone who is on the fence about participating in a competition of this nature, what would it be?
Talk to those that have been around for a long time. Make sure you know your leather history, where we came from, why certain articles of dress hold special meaning to some, why you are competing for the title, and what responsibilities you would have if you won the title. Make sure you dress appropriately for each category, most importantly – Be yourself, have fun, and go for it. Win or lose it is a great experience.
9 – Who inspires you in the leather community?
While this looks like an easy question to answer, it is not. There are and have been so many, some that are still with us, and others who have passed. I would have to say those that inspired me the most are those that are out in their communities work and advocating for LGBT rights, working in charitable organizations or helping to raise funds for those organizations, those who mentor others, and those who are leading by example.
The next Mr. Gay Days Leather competition takes place on June 3rd 2018. For more information, visit www.gaydays.com
The GLBT Center of Central Florida announced that at his request, Terry DeCarlo would be stepping down as Executive Director, but staying with the agency as Chief Communications Officer. The new position, which takes effect immediately, will allow DeCarlo to handle the demands of media relations, communications and events that have increased significantly over the last year. The day-to-day duties at the organization will be handled by Center staff who will take on additional roles.
“This decision was not an easy one,” said DeCarlo. “However, with all that has happened during my tenure as Executive Director, I need, for my health, and for my relationship, to step back from the day to day grind. Now that construction on the new building is coming to a close, and we have passed the one year mark of the Pulse tragedy, this is the perfect time for me to make this transition. I am so proud of the community, the board, and the staff for all they have done to help me along on this journey, and I look forward to this new opportunity.”
DeCarlo also added, “I am also ecstatic that the board created the position of Chief Communications Officer. In my new capacity, I will represent The Center at all events, create communications, coordinate media and be the chief spokesperson. I will also remain on the OnePulse Foundation and the Orlando United Assistance Center advisory boards, because both are very important to me, and to the community”
According to Board President, Jeffrey Buak, “Terry has accomplished a tremendous amount as Executive Director of the Center. He has, no doubt, taken the organization to a new level with his leadership. The board, however, realizes that the Center has taken on an increased role in the LGBT community. The Center’s national and international exposure has blossomed. We have experienced increased demands for communications, media relations and special events. Terry has become the face of the organization, and has shown significant strength in telling our story and casting the Center in a positive light. We are very pleased that he has accepted this new role.”
Producers Kevin McCollum, Doug Morris and Motown Founder Berry Gordy along with the Straz Center for the Performing Arts are proud to present the return engagement of Motown The Musical, Aug. 8-13, in Morsani Hall, sponsored by the Tampa Bay Times.
Directed by Charles Randolph-Wright, Motown The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye and so many more.
Featuring more than 40 classic hits such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” Motown The Musical tells the story behind the hits as Diana, Smokey, Berry and the whole Motown family fight against the odds to create the soundtrack of change in America. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us move to the same beat.
Motown The Musical features staging by Schele Williams, choreography by Patricia Wilcox (A Night with Janis Joplin) and Warren Adams (Toy Story), scenic design by David Korins (Bring It On: The Musical, Annie), costume design by Tony Award® nominee ESosa (The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, Project Runway), lighting design by Tony Award winner Natasha Katz (Once, Sister Act), sound design by Tony Award nominee Peter Hylenski (Rock of Ages, The Scottsboro Boys), projection design by Daniel Brodie (Aladdin), hair and wig design by Charles LaPointe (Memphis) and casting by Wojcik | Seay Casting.
Motown The Musical’s arrangements and orchestrations are by Grammy and Tony Award nominee Ethan Popp (Rock of Ages), who also serves as music supervisor in reproducing the classic “Sound of Young America,” with co-orchestrations and additional arrangements by Tony Award nominee Bryan Crook (Smash) and dance arrangements by Zane Mark (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels).
Motown The Musical is produced by Tony Award-winning producer Kevin McCollum (Rent, In the Heights, Avenue Q), Chairman and CEO of SONY Music Entertainment Doug Morris and Motown founder Berry Gordy, in association with Work Light Productions.
Motown The Musical will play the Straz Center’s Morsani Hall, Aug. 8-13. Performances are Tuesday-Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $28.50, and may be purchased by calling 813.229.STAR (7827) or 800.955.1045 outside Tampa Bay, in person at the Straz Center Ticket Office or online at www.strazcenter.org. Handling fees will apply. For more information about the Straz Center and its upcoming events, please visit www.strazcenter.org.
Southern Nights Orlando’s Flex Fridays celebrates DJ Chris Tavalare Birthday! Doors Open at 9pm, with no cover before 11pm 21+ (18+ Welcome). They will feature Drag Shows at 11pm & 12:30am with Roxxxy Andrews, Tasha Long, Maya Andrews & Chevelle Brooks as well as DJs Ants and Tavi.
The Flamingo Resort presents Code: Glow Party with DJ Shannon C, sexy male dancers, and glow sticks provided.
Saturday, July 29
Parliament House presents South Beach Invasion starring TP Lords, Fantasia Royale GaGa, Missy Meyakie Lepaige, and Elishaly D’Witshes, as well as the men of Miami with beats by DJ Brianna.
Flamingo Resort presents Customer Appreciation Night with a complimentary late night breakfast and Late Night at the Improv, uncensored, hosted by Iman at 11:30p.m., with doors opening in the Blu Room at 10:30p.m.
Sunday, July 30
The Dr. Phillips Center features La Bayadere at 5pm, presented by the Russian Ballet Orlando. Set in legendary India, La Bayadere tells the story of the doomed love between the noble warrior, Solor, and the beautiful temple dancer, Nikiya, who is murdered by her jealous rival, Gamzatti. In the aftermath, Solor’s grief brings him to the heavenly realm of the Kingdom of the Shades in an opium-induced dream, where his beloved appears among the many shades and tenderly forgives him for his betrayal. However, Gamzatti’s murderous triumph is short lived as her actions provoke the wrath of the gods. In retaliation, the gods destroy the temple, killing all who are responsible for Nikiya’s death, and Nikiya is reunited with her beloved Solor beyond the reach of man. Ticket are $55.
Wednesday, August 2
Southern Nights Orlando presents Orlando Drag Race Live Season 4 hosted by Kitana Gemini. Admission is $10 with the season pass costing $45 (saves you $17, and gives you additional perks throughout the entire event season including reserved seating) and can only be purchased on Wed, August 2 or before. The dates for Drag Race are: August 2, August 9th, August 23rd, August 30th, September 13th and September 27th and is hosted by PePe. The cast for this season is: Waka Shame, Lacy Lane, Avery Valentino, Dollya Black, Juno Vibranz, Sorcha Mercy, Rita Bane Stone, Cara Cavalli, and Josie Milan.
Thursday, August 3
Wena’s Nightclub and Show Bar is featuring a benefit for Juno Vibranz to send her to Miss National Comedy Queen.
Please join Miracle of Love, Inc. at their first feast taking place at Rubio’s Coastal Grill in Winter Park from 6-9p.m. If you mention Miracle of Love to your server, Rubio’s will donate 20% of the proceeds from your meal to Miracle of Love, Inc. – All proceeds will go towards their SMART Ride 14 fundraising efforts. For more information, contact Brett Yancey at 954-299-0554.
Tuesday, August 8
The Straz Center presents Motown The Musical starting tonight and going through August 13. Motown The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” experience the story behind the music in the record-breaking smash hit Motown The Musical! Ticket Prices start at $28.50.
Thursday, August 10
Wena’s Nightclub and Show Bar is featuring 2 Club Kid parties this month. The first being tonight with the theme “Trailer Trash,” and the 2nd being Friday, August 25 with the theme “Marvel Vs. DC.” They will both be featuring Kitani Gemini , 92 Era Lords and special guests.
Friday, August 11
Tampa’s AMALIE Arena presents Multi-platinum-selling artists, multiple Grammy Award-winners and music icons, Lionel Richie: All The Hits with very special guest Mariah Carey. Tickets start at $36.20
Saturday, August 12
The Straz Center presents Pole for a Purpose inside the Jaeb Theater. The annual Pole for a Purpose pole dance and aerial arts showcase features performers from around the United States in this spectacular demonstration of strength and skill. Joining for the greater good, the Pole for a Purpose charity event has raised $23,000 in the past six years. For more information, visit poleforapurpose.com. Tickets start at $37.50.
Wena’s Nightclub and Show Bar features “A Night of Comedy Queens” as they feature Bev (Miss Gulf Coast Comedy Queen), Juno Vibranz, Kathryn Nevets and Daphne Ferraro.
Sunday, August 13
Tampa’s AMALIE Arena will host John Mayer Search for Everything World Tour at 7p.m. This tour will be comprised of a full band, solo acoustic and John Mayer Trio sets of music. Tickets start at $45.25.
Friday, August 18
The Flamingo Resort presents their annual Employee Turnabout hosted by Kenya Black (Miss Flamingo) with ShowTime at 11:30p.m. in the main bar along with raffles and lots of blackmail picture opportunities (LOL).
Saturday, August 19
Tampa’s AMALIE Arena will host Monster Jam Triple Threat Series, which is a points-based format that showcases the best lineup of Monster Jam vehicles that deliver what fans want to see most…more trucks, more racing, more freestyle, more donuts, more wheelies, more action! This series tests the versatility of the athletes as they go head-to-head in seven different competitions driving three different vehicles — Monster Jam trucks, Monster Jam Speedsters and Monster Jam ATVs. These athletes battle for points in challenging racing and freestyle events that push themselves and their machines to the limit. Tickets start at $15.
Tuesday, August 29
Tampa’s AMALIE Arena presents Multiple GRAMMY Award-winning global superstar Ed Sheeran with special guest James Blunt. Ticket prices start at $39.50.
Hot Stuff
Hope & Help Center recently moved to a new location at 707 Mendham Blvd, suite 104, Orlando FL 32825.
TLC never had to go chasing their gay fans – we came to them. And not just because “Waterfalls,” one of pop history’s most prominent HIV/AIDS-awareness anthems, made a generation of LGBT people more sexually responsible, or because “Unpretty” affirmed you’re fine just the way you are. Ever since their debut dropped in 1992, the self-proclaimed “prissy tomboys” – nobody could wear condoms quite like Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas – led us all to embrace our own crazy, sexy, cool selves, gender norms be damned.
But when Lopes, the trio’s swagging rapper, was killed in a car accident in 2002, T-Boz, 47, and Chilli, 46, took a long break from the recording studio to tour and pursue solo ventures. Now, 15 years post TLC3D, and thanks to a Kickstarter that funded the project, one of pop music’s flyest girl groups is taking their final bow with their self-titled fifth studio album TLC and opening up to their gay fans.
And no, they didn’t just stick to the rivers and lakes they’re used to. During our nostalgic and, ahem, educational interview, TLC talked about how “No Scrubs” gets the queers “crunk”… and, you know, just casually reminisced on that time they got schooled on what it means to be a top and a bottom.
Have you ever been to a gay club when “No Scrubs” comes on? Because you’ve never seen anything gayer or more inspiring.
T-Boz and Chilli: (Laughs)
Chilli: You know what’s funny? One of my friends works for VH1 and, oh my gosh, it’s hilarious. He’s gay and I’m the only girl who could be his play girlfriend he tells me, and he always sends me – and, I mean, he just sent one the other day – video of when “No Scrubs” comes on, and he’s like, “Chilli, I love you!” And he’s singing and showing me everybody singing. It is crunk!
So, I take it you’re aware of your LGBT following?
T-Boz: Oh, very aware. Very, very, very! The thing I love about our fans is, we’ve grown with them and they’ve grown with us. Some of them have kids now, so we have generations there. But, yes, we are very, very, very aware of the community, honey, ’cause all of our friends let us know. I love it!
When did you first know you had a gay following?
T-Boz: I did a party around (1994’s) CrazySexyCool and that was one of the best parties I hosted. I learned so much! Like, I didn’t know there were certain terms and stuff! They hooked me up with a lot more knowledge of stuff that went on than I really realized. I was like, “Ohh?!” It was just such a free, fun party. No judging. No anything. It was just one of the best environments I had ever been in, so I thought that was cool. So, probably around ’95-ish when I was really aware.
What did you learn about the gay community that night?
T-Boz: I learned what a top was, a bottom was. And versatile! (Laughs) I learned all of those terms! I was like, “Oh my god – this is so cool.”
Chilli: Oh, Lord. Oh, Jesus. I wasn’t at that party!
Sounds like you really missed out, Chilli. When was your gay awakening then? Ha!
Chilli: (Laughs) I don’t know why I feel weird saying it now, ’cause you already said it! The bottom part. And you know… the top. I keep laughing!
Ha! Moving on to the new album: Which songs on it do you hope become gay club anthems?
Chilli: It’s funny that you kind of break it down like that. But really and truly, for me personally, I just kind of feel like when we make our songs, we make them for everybody. I mean, everybody. So, you never know who’s gonna like what the most. I guess we’ll find out in time by what song really speaks to whomever and what’s the most popular one that’s being played at certain clubs. It’s kind of harder to gauge that one for me.
T-Boz: I think “Perfect Girls.” The three I’ve heard mostly from my gay friends have been “Perfect Girls,” “Scandalous” and “Start a Fire.” Those are the top three. But I think “Perfect Girls” has a message that’s been universal no matter what sex you are – anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t love themselves from the inside out or have a goal they’re trying to reach but can’t ’cause they’re looking at people who they think are perfect. But there’s no such thing!
What do you remember of the LGBT community’s response to “Waterfalls” when it first came out?
T-Boz: We did a campaign for Pfizer, and there was a new cocktail out. We did seminars and it was really cool because we let it be known that there was a new drug from this company and it could help HIV/AIDS patients. They would come up to us; they felt like we were their voice. It was such an epidemic at the time, so they just felt like we were speaking for them.
Chilli: It was basically about bringing more awareness (to it) because nobody really talked about it. It was kind of just hush-hush, even though these things were happening. It was like, “People are getting sick, they’re dying and nobody is really talking about it much.”
T-Boz: People even said they thought about committing suicide and it helped save their lives. We started really seeing the seriousness of it, especially when we did charity events. We got a lot of calls for charity events for AIDS benefits, so it started making a really big difference. We basically got one of our wishes through that song, because we always wanted to help change and save lives.
Gay icon Bette Midler covered “Waterfalls” a few years ago – what was it like hearing her rendition?
Chilli: That was an honor. It was an honor because she is legend, oh my god. That’s legendary right there! And not only that, but she contributed to our Kickstarter campaign. We were shocked. We couldn’t believe, like, ‘Bette Midler?!’
During “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Tatianna showed some TLC love when she did T-Boz drag. Did you tune in for that?
T-Boz: (Laughs) I absolutely saw it and I loved it! I put it on my page; I reposted it.
Chili: I don’t think anybody ever has (dressed up as me). Maybe I’m boring! I’m no fun, I guess. (Laughs) I just got the long, wavy hair. And I don’t hardly wear any wake up, so I don’t think I’d be a fun person to dress up as, is what I’m thinking.
T-Boz: Yeah, I’ve seen T-Boz drag more than once, actually. It’s cool to see different renditions of myself. It makes you go, “Oh, that’s how you see me!” (Laughs)
What do you remember from RuPaul’s visit to the set of the “No Scrubs” video in 1999?
Chilli: I remember the first time I saw him – and at first I didn’t know even it was him because he wasn’t in drag! He was just walking around with no makeup and it was so funny. But then, when he smiled, it was like, “Oh, that is RuPaul.” You know that smile anywhere. And he was so sweet too. And really tall! (Laughs)
T-Boz: He just came to show love. He was just there to support us, which I thought was awesome. That was it. He was just showing love.
At the start of your career, you rocked a tomboy look. How intentional was your subversion of gender? And what did that do for your lesbian following?
Chilli: This is how we looked at it: We call ourselves “prissy tomboys” ’cause we’re super girly, but we’re tomboys at the same time, so we felt like we represented all the girls who did not feel comfortable wearing a tight dress. We represented that crew. Then lettin’ everybody know you don’t have to wear a tight dress to be sexy – it’s the attitude. So, even though we had baggy clothes and all that kind of stuff, we were still feminine, So, again, whoever gravitated toward that and felt comfortable, we helped them feel more comfortable. That’s how it was, because we didn’t wanna wear tight dresses! We still don’t really like dressing like that.
Did your style give the ladies the wrong idea – that you were lesbian? What do you remember of those rumors?
T-Boz: I got most of it! They was always after me, child! (Laughs) All the lipstick lesbians – everybody! Child, I got everything. But that doesn’t bother us. Ultimately, no matter what your sexual orientation, we were standing up for anybody that felt like they didn’t fit in. We were letting them know you can still be sexy in boy clothes, you can rock this, you don’t have to be naked or half-dressed. You can be yourself and be just as fly.
As editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Reach him via his website at chris-azzopardi.com and on Twitter (@chrisazzopardi).
One of the best parts of my job as an LGBT lifestyle expert is discovering all the dynamic new people, places and things expected to interest the LGBT community. Some do, some don’t – I sift through A LOT of duds, in fact (like the travel-size cold-sore medicine one PR hack pitched me for years because he thought it would make a great stocking stuffer at Christmastime) – but every once in a while I stumble upon a few gems to tell you about it. As such, here’s what I’m into right now – and you might be too.
1. REVRY LGBT Streaming Service
You have to tip your feathered caps to Netflix, Hulu and other popular streaming services for providing (for the most part) satisfying LGBT programming options, like trans creator Jill Soloway’s award-winning “Transparent” over at Amazon. But now you can effectively eliminate all the hetero noise clogging up your queues and go full “queerated content” thanks to REVRY, the first dedicated LGBTQ+ digital streaming platform. Available on Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, plus iOS and Android devices (with Pluto.tv and Amazon Fire capabilities coming soon), REVRY, which recently celebrated its first anniversary, features original content like “3030,” a series about platonic black lesbian roommates living in Las Vegas; the newly added Bob the Drag Queen comedy special, “Suspiciously Large Woman”; as well as international shows and movies, like the subtitled “Free Fall”, characterized as the German “Brokeback Mountain”. Spoiler alert: They bang in the woods using nature’s lube.
2. Varsity Gay League
When I lived in Manhattan I was a regular on the social sports scene – both “straight” and gay leagues – playing a wide range of activities, including bowling, kickball, dodgeball, trivia and cornhole (and yaaas, competitive cornhole is totally considered a sport, queen). When I left NYC for life in a small beach community on the Jersey Shore, however, being part of these teams was among the things I missed most. That could all change soon, though, as I was recently introduced to Varsity Gay League, which is celebrating its milestone 10th anniversary this year. VGL is the largest sports league in California with more than 8,000 members, and it has outposts in San Diego, San Francisco, Long Beach, Sacramento, Austin, Orlando and Portland, with plans to add other major cities to meet demand. I’m currently in talks with the league’s founder Will Hackner to bring VGL to my part of the world, and if you think your city might benefit from this organized homo-raderie, hit ’em up on Twitter @vglsocal.
3. OUTshine on the Sea
Earlier this year I attended the 10-day OUTshine LGBT film festival in Miami – which featured some of the best LGBT films I have ever seen (not an exaggeration; find French-Canadian film “1:54” and have a box of Kleenex handy) – and I’m pretty pumped for OUTshine on the Sea, the fest’s seven-night Eastern Caribbean Cruise (hitting Nassau, Punta Cana and St. Thomas), from February 17 to 23, 2018, aboard Celebrity Equinox. If you’re a film and cruise lover – two of my favorite things! – pack your movie-marathon sweatpants and let’s gain 10 pounds of popcorn weight on the open ocean together.
4. Hornet App
If you’re fed up with all the blatant racism on your gay dating/hookup apps, take a break and zip into Hornet, a gay social-networking app oddly popular in France, Russia, Brazil, Turkey and Taiwan (you want to expand your horizons, right?), but whose user base is consistently growing here at home. Aside from finding like minded men nearby (the app includes a GPS component just like Grindr and the gang), you can tap into and share LGBT-focused new stories on its companion website UnicornBooty.com; discover local queer hotspots around your home and when you’re traveling; and keep your social calendar lit with curated homocentric events.
5. Ascension Asbury Park
After years of false starts and delayed gentrification, Asbury Park, New Jersey is now a full-fledged LGBT destination for gay men and lesbians alike. There’s no shortage of “fam”-friendly places to stay (you won’t be disappointed with a night at the celebrated Asbury Hotel), dine (upscale Mexi-joint Barrio Costero has margies to die for), and get your swerve on (the pool at Paradise is always poppin’ after midnight on Saturdays during the summer). But if you really want to throw your weekend getaway into overdrive, swoop into town for Ascension, Aug. 4 to 6, featuring 11 high-octane events, including tea dances, beach bashes and glow parties taken to new heights by 14 DJs and thousands of prospective half-night stands.
6. Handmade Sexy Time
My boyfriend and I are adventurous, especially when it comes to our bodies and bedroom activity, and we had an arousing at-home date night with Haus of Betch’s hand-crocheted jock straps – it was like Captain America himself was calling me hither in his blue three-starred weiner basket (sorry, no photos) – and an arts-and-crafts project making vibrating dildos of our own dicks with kits from Clone-A-Willy. The latter was a bit stressful because the process moved ultra-fast – we had to get and stay hard while mixing the plaster at an exact 90 degrees and cast our cocks in under three minutes! – but we shared laughs along the way, amazing sex afterward, and now we’ve got life-size replicas of our own wieners that we’ll probably just use to go fuck ourselves whenever we have a tiff. (Sorry; still no photos.)
Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist and LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has been published in more than 100 outlets across the world. He splits his time between homes in New York City and the Jersey Shore with his dog Jaxon. Connect with Mikey on Twitter @mikeyrox.
MOVIES – “Atomic Blonde” – is about an undercover MI6 agent sent to Berlin during the Cold War to investigate the murder of a fellow agent and recover a missing list of double agents. The movie, which premieres on Friday, July 28, is 115 minutes long, and stars Sofia Boutella, Charlize Theron, James McAvoy, and Bill Skarsgård.
MOVIES – “The Emoji Movie” – Gene, a multi-expressional emoji, sets out on a journey to become a normal emoji. This animation adventure comedy premieres on Friday, July 28 and stars the voices of T.J. Miller, James Corden, Anna Faris, Maya Rudolph and is 86 minutes in length.
WATCH:
“OVO” – Cirque du Soleil – brings the high-energy performances of “Ovo,” meaning “egg” in Portuguese, create a headlong rush into a colorful ecosystem of insects teeming with life. After a successful 10 days at the BB&T Center comes to the American Airlines Arena from July 28-30. Tickets start at $48 at TicketMaster.com.
SUPERHEROES – Florida Supercon – takes place at the Broward Convention Center from Thursday, July 27 through Monday, July 31 and features the best in Comic Books, Media Guests, Anime, Animation, Video Games, Fantasy, Sci-Fi and Pop Culture in South Florida. Superson will also feature celebrity guests, comic book creators, voice actors, industry guests, cosplayers, artists, writers, panels, Q&A’s, films & shorts, costume & cosplay contests, vendors, parties, anime, workshops, video gaming and more! Admission starts at $25.
TELEVISION – “Room 104” – is a new comedy drama Set in a single room of an average American hotel, Room 104, which tells a different story of the assorted guests who pass through it. The show premieres on HBO on Friday, July 28 and stars Davie-Blue, Spencer Garrett, Will Tranfo, Karan Soni.
CONCERT – Lady Antebellum – The Grammy-winning country trio has crossed over into the mainstream with such singles as “Need You Now,” “I Run to You” and “Just a Kiss.” After a brief hiatus, they are back with the “Heart Break” release, featuring the lead single “You Look Good.” Opening are Kelsea Ballerini and Brett Young. Catch them in concert at the Perfect Vodka Amphitheatre in WPB on Saturday, July 29 with tickets starting at $26.75.
ROYALTY – Prince Royce – The Bronx-born singer, songwriter and guitarist broke out as a Latin pop star, infusing his tropical fusion music with bachata and R&B sounds. He has collaborated with Snoop Dogg, Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull. Catch him in concert on Sunday, July 30 at Bayfront Park Ampitheater with Luis Coronel as his opening act. Tickets start at $20.75.
Comedian – Mo’Nique – will be playing at the Palm Beach Improv on Friday, July 28 and Saturday, July 29 with 2 shows each night. The Baltimore native is a veteran comedian who has appeared on “Showtime at the Apollo,” HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam,” “Apollo Comedy Hour,” HBO’s “Snaps,” BET’s “Comic View,” the Montreal Comedy Festival and Uptown Comedy Club. On television, she starred in “The Parkers” and hosted an eponymous talk show.
ACTING – Improv Acting 1 – The seven-week introductory class focuses on improvisational acting. Learn the techniques to improvise scenes and characters for auditions, ad-libbing, or just to sharpen your acting skills. The beginners’ course culminates in a student performance on the final night of class. The class which takes place on Tuesdays starting August 1, takes place at Just the Funny (3119 Coral Way Miami, FL) and the price ranges from $225-$250.
AWARDS – Fox Latin Music Awards – takes place on Thursday, July 27th at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center (10950 SW 211th St) starting at 7:30p.m. and will feature musicians from such countries as Argentina, Chile, the Dominican Republic, Peru, Mexico, Venezuela and Cuba will be feted at the inaugural event celebrating new talents as well as established artists. Admission ranges from $35-$80.
It’s a rare movie that stars an actress you have never heard of or seen before and half way through the film you realize you have become a huge fan. That definitely was the case for me with Florence Pugh who plays Katherine in “Lady Macbeth.” This young actress (she is now only 21) is able to convey a thousand words, just with a look. She is a more gifted performer than most actresses twice her age. Pugh just commands the screen; you literally cannot look away. If I was a betting man, I would say there are definitely Academy Awards (yes plural) in her future!
This is not Shakespeare’s “Lady Macbeth,” although Florence gives her character many of the ambitions that Shakespeare’s “Lady Macbeth” had. As the movie starts out we see Katherine, a beautiful young lady, being married off (for land) by her dad to a man 20 years her senior, Alexander. Immediately we feel sympathy for Katherine, and the sympathy grows when we are shown that she is treated like a property by both her new husband, who refuses to be intimate with her, and her father in law, who clearly has anger issues.
WATCH:
Shortly after her marriage, Alexander is sent out of town to handle an emergency. Now that Katherine is not being monitored she can go outside and explore the land. Almost immediately she attracts the attention of cocky Sebastian (played by the very sexy Cosmos Jarvis), one of her husband’s servants that works the land. It doesn’t take long for them to start an affair that is steamier than your eyeglasses could ever get! This affair unleashes something in Katherine, and the young innocent girl we saw in the beginning of the movie, now becomes a woman that takes control of her life. She will no longer be told what to do or how to live her life.
How far will Katherine go down the proverbial dark path? Since I don’t want to give away the plot, you will have to watch the movie to find out.
I cannot end this article without also giving kudos to the fantastic performances turned in by Cosmos Jarvis (Sebastian), Naomi Ackie (Anna the maid), Paul Hilton (Alexander) and Christopher Fairbanks (Boris the father in law).
Many people will see the movie and think Katherine unleashed an evil side to her, but I think she will go to any lengths to protect the ones she loves. And after all, isn’t that maternal?
“Lady Macbeth,” from Roadside Attractions, opens Friday, July 28 in South Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Palm Beach
Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Emory Entertainment present comedic performer Robert Dubac in his newest Off-Broadway hit, “The Book of Moron: If Thinking Were Easy Everyone Would Do It,” on Friday, August 4 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, August 5 at 4 and 8 p.m.
Creating mind-boggling characters and delivering rapid-fire satire, Dubac combines the raucous laughter of stand-up comedy with the startling thrill of live theater.
Having been brainwashed by a culture that worships Kardashians over character, delusion over truth and selfies over self-effacements, Dubac begins his journey in The Book of Moron with the simple questions, “Who am I?,” “What do I believe?” and “What’s the point?”
He has no answers, just inner voices who come to life with precision and wit. One by one they pull him into a hysterical alternative universe of critical thought in search of the bigger picture.
WATCH:
Reviewing a performance of “The Book of Moron,” The Denver Post reported, “This is high-concept comedy that is provocative and smart; a philosophy lecture with punch lines. The bottom line: Dubac is back and brainy with plenty of laughs, a razor-sharp comedian.”
Dubac draws on decades of showbiz experience as a writer, actor and stand-up comic to create solo shows including “The Male Intellect: An Oxymoron” that explores social mores, political ideas and the complexity of the human experience with intelligent and absurd humor.
The show contains adult language and subject matter. Performances are held in the Amaturo Theater and tickets are $50. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center, Parker Playhouse and affiliated venues. Buy tickets online at BrowardCenter.org or Ticketmaster.com; by phone at 954-462-0222; or the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. Know who you are buying from when you purchase tickets. We CANNOT PROVIDE REFUNDS OR CUSTOMER SERVICE for tickets purchased from unauthorized sites, brokers or secondary ticket sellers.
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located in the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District at 201 SW Fifth Avenue in Fort Lauderdale.
Florida Supercon starts today and goes through Sunday, July 30 at the Broward Convention Center. Supercon features the best in Comic Books, Media Guests, Anime, Animation, Video Games, Fantasy, Sci-Fi and Pop Culture in South Florida. Superson will also feature celebrity guests, comic book creators, voice actors, industry guests, cosplayers, artists, writers, panels, Q&A’s, films & shorts, costume & cosplay contests, vendors, parties, anime, workshops, video gaming and more! For more information or to purchase tickets, which start at $25 for adults, go to FloridaSupercon.com.
Friday, July 28
Miami Gay Men’s Chorus accompanist, Dr. Gregory Taylor, would like to share a romantic summer evening of music with everyone as he performs the music of Chopin, Debussy, Liszt, and Rachmaninov. The performance takes place in the Coral Gables Congregational Church Sanctuary. Admission is free, but any offering will be gratefully accepted.
Cirque du Soleil’s “OVO” moves to the American Airlines Arena from today through Sunday, July 30. “Ovo,” meaning “egg” in Portuguese, creates a headlong rush into a colorful ecosystem of insects teeming with life. Tickets start at $48 at TicketMaster.com.
Mo’Nique the comedian, who won an Academy Award, A Golden Globe Award, and A Screen Actors Guild Award for her performance in Precious, will be playing at the Palm Beach Improv today and tomorrow with 2 shows each night. The Baltimore native is a veteran comedian who has appeared on “Showtime at the Apollo,” HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam,” “Apollo Comedy Hour,” HBO’s “Snaps,” BET’s “Comic View,” the Montreal Comedy Festival and Uptown Comedy Club. On television, she starred in “The Parkers” and hosted an eponymous talk show.
Saturday, July 29
The Pet Project (Pets and People together forever) presents their annual Bowl-a-Thon at Manor Lanes (1517 NE 26th Street in Wilton Manors). There will be 2 shifts of bowlers with the 1st shifts registration at 8:30a.m., and start bowling at 9:45 a.m., and the 2nd shift registration at 12:15 p.m., and start bowling at 1:30 p.m. Even if you are not bowling, go by and support this important event.
The Grammy-winning country trio, Lady Antebellum, will be in concert at the Perfect Vodka Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach. Lady Antebellum has crossed over into the mainstream with such singles as “Need You Now,” “I Run to You” and “Just a Kiss.” After a brief hiatus, they are back with the “Heart Break” release, featuring the lead single “You Look Good.” Opening are Kelsea Ballerini and Brett Young. To purchase tickets, which start at $26.75, go to westpalmbeachamphitheatre.com.
The Manor Complex presents a tribute to Florida’s Supercon at the Broward Convention Center entitled “Heroes, A Spectacular Cosplay Theme Party” starring DJ Kidd Madonny in the Ballroom. In the Ivy Dance Room and patio, Noche Latina Saturdays presents special guests Kalah Mendoza and Mia Patricyk (Miss Noche Latina 2015 & 2016), along with resident DJ Larry Larr and sexy Latin Go-Go Papi’s. Doors open at 11pm with no cover before Midnight!
Sunday, July 30
Scandals Saloon presents their monthly Lady Fancy’s Gospel Jubilee at 6 p.m. which is a joyful celebration of Southern Gospel Music.
Thinking Cap Theatre at The Vanguard presents GAP (Gender and Pulitzer Prize) a yearlong play reading series. Today they are reading The Heidi Chronicles by Wendy Wasserstein directed by Carey Brianna Hart, and featuring Elizabeth Price, Sabrina Gore, Christina Groom, Emma Magner, Noah Levine, and Adam Simpson. The Heidi Chronicles was the winner of the Pulitzer Prize, the Tony Award, the New York Drama Critics Circle Award, the Outer Critics Circle Award, the Drama Desk Award, the Hull-Warriner Award and the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize. According to Variety “…not many plays manage Heidi’s feat of inducing almost continuous laughter while forcing the audience to examine its preconceptions.” Doors open at 12p.m. with the reading starting at 1p.m.Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at brownpapertickets.com/event/2995351.
The sexy Prince Royce will be in concert at the Bayfront Park Ampitheater at 7:30p.m. with Luis Coronel as his opening act. The Bronx-born singer, songwriter and guitarist broke out as a Latin pop star, infusing his tropical fusion music with bachata and R&B sounds. He has collaborated with Snoop Dogg, Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull. Tickets, which can be purchased at Livenation.com start at $25 each (including fees).
This is HOT
OPENING NIGHT – Stage manager Nick (Topher Grace) has the odds stacked against him backstage on opening night of the new Broadway Musical “One Hit Wonderland.” He must corral the eccentric cast and crew after learning that Chloe (Alona Tal) had a drunken fling with the star, JC Chasez (yes, NSYNC’s JC Chasez). From prima donna back-up dancer (Taye Diggs), to a temperamental producer (Rob Riggle), to his leading lady (Anne Heche) suffering one accident after another, Nick makes sure ‘the show must go on’ in this R-rated musical comedy.
Opening Night, which is 83 minutes in length and is rated R is available for purchase at Wolfe Video for only $26.95
According to reports by CNN and The New York Times, President Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States will not “accept or allow” transgender people in the United States military.
After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow……
….Transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military. Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming….. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 26, 2017
….victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail. Thank you
As Benjamin Franklin was leaving the Constitutional Convention of 1787 somebody asked him what kind of government the U.S. was going to have. “A republic,” he replied. “If you can keep it.”
And for over 200 years we’ve managed to do that. Our Republic is still standing. It hasn’t been easy. In fact, at times it’s downright ugly. But we have ideals, damn it, and we keep trying to get it right. But are we honestly even trying anymore?
Ever since the election of Donald Trump, I’ve heard Franklin’s voice in my head saying, “If you can keep it” over and over.
Trump’s on a rampage and he’s leaving democratic norms crumbling in his wake. Meanwhile, Republicans, who have the majority in the House and Senate, are just standing by and watching. Actually, they’re helping him do it by not doing their jobs.
The fact of the matter is, we have never had a president this dangerously ignorant before. This contemptuous of the Constitution. This petty and gross.
But here we are. Some people say that Trump makes them miss George W. Bush and, furthermore, maybe we were wrong to criticize Bush so much. I disagree. Bush was a terrible president. He sent us to war based on lies. He appointed right-wing yahoos to his cabinet and the federal bench. He supported amending the Constitution to deny same-sex couples the right to marry.
Was he better than Trump? Well, yes. But that’s a low bar. Trump is the worst. So much progress made by Obama is being walked backwards: LGBTQ rights, environmental protections, voting rights, criminal sentencing reform, expanded access to health insurance, even encouraging kids to eat vegetables. It’s painful to watch.
Most painful of all is watching as all of the parts that work to “keep” the Republic are torn apart and flung here and there like an exploding cartoon cuckoo clock.
Except this isn’t a cartoon. But Trump is certainly a caricature. He’s a clownish buffoon who has been nothing but honest about himself with the American people. Yes, he lies about everything, even things that are easily disproved with a quick Google search, but his lying is part of his honesty about who he is. “I’m a liar!” he screams. “I care only about myself! I shouldn’t be trusted. I’m a terrible person.” He’s been telling us for decades.
Yet he was elected anyway.
And now? A lot depends on the Republicans in Congress who have already shown that they’re more than happy to kiss Trump’s ass if it gets them closer to giving tax cuts to the wealthy and taking away health care from the poor. I’m not holding my breath.
Many people have their sights set on the 2018 midterms, hoping for a Democratic wave to take the Republicans out and put grown-ups in charge. I hope for that, too.
But I worry that Democrats think that Trump’s abysmal reign is going to do all of the work for them. It won’t. Millions of people voted for this man even after he told us, showed us even, that he was unfit. The Democrats have their work cut out for them.
A man who hears, “If you can keep it” as a dare instead of a warning is a lunatic, not a leader. Lunatics can be entertaining, but they can also be dangerous. We are not obligated to let Trump lead our Republic off a cliff. In fact, in a functioning Republic we are obligated to stop him. So I guess this is the test. I sure hope we pass. D’Anne Witkowski is a poet, writer and comedian living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been writing about LGBT politics for over a decade. Follow her on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski.
Latinos Salud, a non-profit agency based in Wilton Manors, hosted an Open House Party at their new location in Miami Beach. The new location is at 925 Arthur Godfrey Road, Suite 200, Miami Beach, Florida 33140. View the full gallery: Latinos Salud’s Miami Beach Grand Opening
I have a strange problem. Sometimes when I cum, I cry. I’m not sad, but the tears come anyway. It doesn’t happen all the time but I’ve run off a few promising dates because they thought I had “issues.” It’s not like I blubber or anything, but it’s noticeable. The thing is, it’ll happen even with a trick I don’t ever want to see again. What can I do to stop this?
—Reaching for the c*m towel AND the Kleenex
Dear Reaching:
You’re breaking my mom’s first rule: Don’t cry over spilled milk. Though I don’t think she had you in mind when she said it.
There’s nothing wrong with you. In fact, I think it’s rather sweet. In addition to a physical release during climax, there’s also an emotional release. There are men, for instance who convulse with laughter after they cum. Nothing strikes them funny; it’s just the way their mind-body connection reacts to the release.
Like my boyfriend’s moods, sexual response is multiphasic. Energy builds from excitement (the first stirrings) to resolution (the last dribble). By the time you’re ready to “pop,” all that built-up energy gets released in different ways. For you, it’s crying. For others, it is laughing. For my boyfriend, a compulsive need to brush his hair. Crying may be your body’s way of saying “Thanks, I needed that.” Be grateful. That kind of emotional juice doesn’t come often.
As for scaring off partners, just treat it lightly. If they think you’re crying because you’re falling for them, just say “Don’t flatter yourself, I cry when I beat off.”
Hey, Woody!
I’ve got a pet peeve I thought you might want to tackle. It’s deep-throating! It seems the majority of gay men have somewhat learned this technique but not as a continuing part of a stroke. Instead, they take the penis down their throat, and then STOP! They hold it down as long as they can hold their breath, and only then continue the motion that brings pleasure to the recipient. I wish men would consider what a good sexual technique is and what a parlor trick is. When men masturbate, do they simply grab their penis with both hands motionless? NO! They move their hands up and down continuously. It’s the motion that brings pleasure, not just the contact. Tell them to stop slowing the momentum down, Woody!
— Got something caught in their throat
Dear Got:
You’re complaining about guys who deep-throat? You probably came out of the womb complaining about the back-lighting.
Here’s advice #1: Never complain when somebody can deep-throat you. Complain when they can’t.
Advice #2: When somebody’s doing something you don’t like, don’t bitch. Request. As in: “Wow, that feels great, but it feels better when you don’t stop the motion.” Grab his ears and gently show him how to swallow the sword without nicking his throat or stopping the mo’.
Your partners aren’t the problem, guy. You are. You seem to think that your partners should know what you like before you tell them. Here’s a hint: You can’t move a man’s mouth down your shaft through telekinesis. Why are you so unwilling to tell your partners what you like?
If you’re one of those people who just can’t seem to cram an exercise routine into an already hectic week, I’ve got good news for you! It’s actually possible to get in the recommended one to two sessions of 150 minutes of moderate, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity needed to maintain good health and overall fitness in a single weekend. Get ready weekend warriors, here are some pointers that’ll help you put together some personalized, fun, and hassle-free workouts that you’ll look forward to all week long.
According to The International Sports Sciences Association, the average adult should accumulate 30 to 45 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity most days of the week. So, if “most days of the week” you’re stuck behind a desk or conference table at work, why not up your cardio-vascular activity on the weekends? On Saturdays and Sundays devote more time, 45 or even 60 minutes to a run on the beach, a nature walk, a long swim, a Zumba class, or a two-hour hip-hop dance workshop. Build these regular activities into your weekend planner and stay committed and you’ll soon see and feel the difference.
I wrote about the benefits of circuit training several weeks ago and for weekend warriors, this type of training can be taken to new heights. Break up a 60 to 90- minute training session and make it more exciting by being creative, maybe even a little wild. Begin with stretching and a vigorous warm-up with calisthenics. Get your heart rate up with wind sprints, jumping rope or jogging up flights of stairs. Don’ forget to include resistance training with free weights to build lean muscle. Cool down with more stretching, stay hydrated, and don’t forget to document your workouts in a journal or on your phone. Check out some more great circuit training ideas at Health Central or Livestrong.com.
Make the most of your time and get the biggest bang for your bucks by incorporating full body exercises into your workouts. Push-ups, squats, lunges, exercise ball crunches and rolls, clean and jerks, burpees, and deadlifts are seven of the best exercises for those looking for a simple and effective full body workout. Of course, not everyone is at the same level of fitness. Begin with some pushups and squats and work your way up to the tougher moves.
For those who work out multiple days a week, the best way to make progress is to switch things up a little from time to time. The same is true for weekend warriors. Search for original and fun exercise options, such as trying new machines at the gym, taking a class, going kayaking with friends, or joining a yoga group. Outdoor activities abound all year long in South Florida, so the possibilities are limitless! The important thig is to stay active, have fun, try new experiences and meet new people!
Tom Bonanti is a certified trainer, massage therapist (MA#40288) and fitness writer. Contact Tom at trainertomb@aol.com with questions and check out his training and massage facility at www.pumpnincgym.com.
Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.) really doesn’t like transgender people and she really, really doesn’t want them serving in the military.
You may remember that a year ago, the Pentagon gave the green light for trans men and women to serve. After all, letting gays and lesbians serve openly didn’t destroy America’s military might despite dire predictions by idiots, so why block trans service members based on those same idiots’ objections?
But that was under a legitimate President. Now that we have Trump, the anti-LGBTQ right is pushing back against previous gains. While they certainly don’t want gays, lesbians and bisexuals in the military, they currently have their sights set on trans men and women.
During a June 28 House Armed Services Committee meeting, Hartzler proposed and then withdrew an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would essentially boot all trans service members from the military. Why bother proposing this measure only to withdraw it? Hartzler wanted to make it clear that if the Pentagon doesn’t deal with ousting trans service members, then Congress is waiting in the wings to do it.
According to Hartzler, transgender people are incapable of serving and should be disqualified the same as someone “with less complicated conditions like flat feet, bunions, asthma and sleepwalking.”
And then she brings up showers, of course.
“Is it fair to recruit our sons and daughters to fight for the nation and – instead of being able to focus on the enemy – subjecting them to disturbing distractions of very personal privacy issue involving sleeping and showering with individuals born of the opposite sex?” she asks.
First of all, trans people are also “sons and daughters,” thank you very much. And if someone can’t cope with showering and bunking with other people, do we really want to give them a gun and train them to kill people?
During a June 29 interview with the Family Research Council, Hartzler reiterated her disdain for trans people, calling them “a threat to national defense.”
“At a time when we should be focusing on the threats from North Korea, and Putin, and ISIS, we’re having to deal with a threat here at home, a domestic threat , of allowing transgenders [SIC] in our service,” she said, apparently unaware and no doubt unconcerned that “transgenders” isn’t a word.
I’m certainly glad she sees Putin as a threat since many of her Republican pals don’t, but it sure is hard to buy that she’s truly focused on actual threats when she puts trans service members in the same category as ISIS.
Needless to say, Hartzler was very happy when Defense Secretary James Mattis announced a six-month delay on the military’s trans members policy.
“The Obama transgender policy, which was implemented without input from Members of Congress, is ill-conceived,” she said in a July 3 statement. “This delay is indicative of a policy that was rushed and never clearly thought out, and I am pleased that Secretary Mattis has decided to delay the accession policy. It is my hope that he will move forward with full repeal in the coming months.”
Mattis has apparently said that “full repeal” isn’t going to happen. But we shall see. After all, the Republicans need a “win” and fighting trans service members is a lot easier than fighting ISIS.
D’Anne Witkowski is a poet, writer and comedian living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been writing about LGBT politics for over a decade. Follow her on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski.
The National LGBTQ Task Force will present The Miami Foundation with its annual donation from 6:30 p.m.to 8:30 p.m.at El Tucán in Miami Beach, FL. The annual donation benefits local, grassroots, non-profit organizations serving South Florida’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community through a grant-making process administered by the GLBT Community Projects Funds at The Miami Foundation. Funding for the award is made possible by the proceeds from the annual Winter Party Festival and the National LGBTQ Task Force Gala – Miami. The two events also support the National LGBTQ Task Force’s work to advance full freedom, justice and equality for LGBTQ people throughout the country. Since 2005, the National LGBTQ Task Force has donated more than $2.4 million to LGBTQ organizations in South Florida.
Stonewall National Museum – Wilton Manors Gallery (2157 Wilton Drive) presents
Media Rebels and Renegades: Taking Control Over Our Own at 7p.m. This will feature a screening of stories from the historic In The Life documentary series featuring: Jonathan Capehart, Stacyann Chin, Martin Duberman, Richard LaFortune, Katherine Linton, and Rev. Irene Monroe. Producers John Catania and Charles Ignacio will screen stories about family, diversity, gender identity and faith. Learn how In The Life became the longest-running LGBT television program in history and how to use its new online archive resource. Free to attend. Suggested donation $5. Light refreshments provided courtesy of Barefoot Wine & Bubbly.
Friday, July 21
The Ramrod invites everyone to meet International Mr. Leather 2017 Ralph Bruneau from 12 a.m. to 1 a.m. during their Mandance party. On Saturday they feature the official welcome party for IML from 11 p.m. to 1a.m. and on Sunday catch Ralph hosting their leather event from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.
The Miami Beach Botanical Garden is presents Asado in the Garden, a sumptuous Uruguayan Asado from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. prepared by Gaucho Ranch, paired with the wines of Alto de la Ballena, a boutique winery above the coast of Punta del Este. The “Gaucho Squad” will grill their grass-fed beef cuts served with complimentary side dishes. Savor traditional appetizers, a main course of marinated rib eyes and tenderloins carved from the grilling station, selections from Alto de la Ballena’s Tannat blends and dessert. The cost is $75 per person, all inclusive, or $65 for members and can be purchased at mbgarden.org.
Saturday, July 22
Bigger Saturdays at Score presents “Game of Thrones” starring “RuPaul’s Drag Race’s” DJ Nina Flowers and hosted by Luciano Presents.
Hunters presents“Stoli in July Beach Party” where they invite you to donate toys to benefit Broward Medical Center and donors will receive drink tickets.
Southern Nights Fort Lauderdale presents “Glow in the Dark” with décor by Chou Chou Guilder, music by DJ Branden Vidal and shows by Noel Leon, Poizon Ivy, Nicole T Phillips and Fantasia GaGa Royale. They will be giving away free glow sticks and more!
The Jungle Ball is taking place at The Hangar Club (60 NE 11th St, Miami, FL), which is right next door to Space. They are promising the biggest Ball in SFL history! My friend, Alexis Lords (father of the House of Lords), has Icons, Legends and many other State Houses coming to participate in the event. They will also feature a Red Carpet event outside the club from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. followed by the introduction of the Houses, Icons, Legends and Stars inside the club and then The Jungle Ball will commence with over 24 categories in which House members will compete for cash & trophies. Admission is $30 and can only be purchased at the door.
The Miami Gay Men’s Chorus first Painting with a Purpose fundraiser in May sold out and was so much fun they just had to do it again! And this time they are doubling the class size so no one gets left out. Go and join an evening of wine and painting with the Miami Gay Men’s Chorus at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person and include nibbles, wine, and your very own painting! Half of the proceeds go to the Miami Gay Men’s Chorus, so not only will you have a great time, you’ll be doing it for a great cause! To find out more information or to purchase a ticket, go to: MGMChorus.org
The Manor Complex, presents the break out star of “Ru Paul’s Drag Race” Season 9, Valentina (pictured), with DJ Sushiman on the turntables. In the Ivy Dance Room and Patio, Noche Latina Saturdays presents a “Colombian Independence Party” starring, Colombian Sasha Lords, resident DJ Larry Larr and sexy Latin Go-Go papis. Saturdays at the Manor Complex are from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. and feature no cover before midnight and only $7 after midnight for members and $10 for non-members ($12 for 18-20 years old)
Tuesday, July 25
My friend and the community’s friend, Russell Matheney, was tragically taken from us way to soon, and we all miss him dearly. Today is the day we remember him and celebrate his contribution to our lives and society as a whole. Events will be happening at many locations all over town (Smarty Pants at 12 p.m.; United Church of Christ at 2 p.m. and Ramrod at 10 p.m.) but the main event will take place at his beloved Scandals Saloon at 4 p.m. If you would like to donate to his expenses please go to: gofundme.com/Russell-matheney-memorial-fund.
Hot Stuff
My good buddy, Dr. Max Z, is pictured here with his mom Janet, while celebrating her 80th birthday at Cooper’s Hawk Winery. Happy Birthday Janet and wishing you many more years of health!
“Ru Paul’s Drag Race” has been nominated for EIGHT Emmy awards. This is so amazing for the LGBTQ community. In a statement Ru said: “I want to thank the Academy for honoring the entire cast and crew of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ my family at World of Wonder, and our champions at VH1. It takes a village, people! Their creativity and dedication to telling the stories of our brave and talented queens never ceases to amaze, amuse and inspire.”
This is HOT
Pet Shop Boys are pleased to announce CATALOGUE: 1985-2012, a very special series of reissues that will include of all their studio albums released on Parlophone. This definitive edition will feature each album from the duo’s discography on the label, remastered and accompanied by “further listening” albums of master quality bonus tracks and demos created in the same period of time as each album, as well as Pet Shop Boys’ own remixes of their tracks. Many tracks are being released for the first time. Each album will be packaged with an extensive booklet in which Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe discuss each song, illustrated with many archive photographs. The entire project is designed by Farrow Design.
The reissue series begins release on July 28 nationwide, with the release of three very different-sounding PSB albums: Nightlife, Release, and Fundamental. Each album is available on 180-gram vinyl, as well as on CD and digitally.
CONCERTS – Shawn Mendes – In support of his sophomore album, “Illuminate,” multi-platinum singer/songwriter Shawn Mendes is performing in his first-ever headlining arena world tour with special guest Charlie Puth. The concert takes place at the American Airlines Arena on Wednesday, July 26. For more information go to AAArena.com. To purchase tickets go to Ticketmaster.com
SYMPHONY OF THE AMERICAS – Summerfest Concert 2017 – represents the Symphony’s 26th Anniversary Summerfest & Maestro Brooks-Bruzzese, features soloists from famous European orchestras representing 10 countries joined in cultural exchange by musicians of the Symphony. Performances include music of Vivaldi, Mendelssohn, Vaughan Williams, Piazzolla, Moncayo, Ravel’s Bolero and premieres by Italian composer Lorenzo Turchi-Floris. Taking place at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center on July 22.
COLOMBIA – Independence Celebration – 1er Festival Cultural Celebrating la independence of Colombia takes place at the Pembroke Pines City Center on Saturday, July 22. Enjoy the culture of Colombia including live music, traditional dances, arts & crafts, and food. This one day event will be expected to have 2,000-3,000 patrons in attendance. Admission is $20 or $35. (Children under 3 are free).
MUSICALS – MNM Productions – has announced that the July 20 Preview Performance of Stephen Sondheim’s “Company” will benefit the Kretzer Piano Music Foundation, which brings the gift of music to children and seniors. Tickets for the benefit are $50 each and can only be purchased through the Kravis Center, either online, by phone or at the box office. As an added bonus, the Kretzer Kids will perform in the lobby from 6:45 to 7:15 pm, before the 7:30 pm curtain.
ROCK BANDS – Every Time I Die – performs at the Culture Room on Thursday, July 20 at 7pm. Since 1998, the metalcore band from Buffalo has garnered acclaim for their energetic and intense live shows. Opening are Dyne Side and Fero Lux. Admission is $17.
Piaf – A Tribute – Miami New Drama presents a journey through Edith Piaf’s life, featuring her most beloved songs. The theatrical work has played across Latin America and now makes its North American premiere. This takes place at the Colony Theatre starting on Thursday, July 20 and all performances are in Spanish except for 3 p.m. July 23 and 8 p.m. July 28, which are performed in English. Admission is $50-$65.
MOVIES – “Girls Trip” – Premieres on Friday, July 21 and is about four lifelong friends traveling to New Orleans for the annual Essence Festival, sisterhoods are rekindled, wild sides are rediscovered, and there’s enough dancing, drinking, brawling, and romancing to make the Big Easy blush. This 122 minute R Rated comedy stars Regina Hall, Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, and Tiffany Haddish
DREAMGIRLS – in Concert – featuring “American Idol” finalist LaKisha Jones in the concert-style production of the Tony- and Grammy Award-winning hit musical. The show tells the rags-to-riches tale of a fictional 1960s Motown girl group based on the stories of real-life acts like The Supremes and The Shirelles. The R&B-tinged score includes “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” and “One Night Only,” and takes place at the Miramar Cultural Center starting Saturday, July 22.
COMEDIANS – Moshe Kasher & Natasha Leggero – perform at the James L. Knight Center on Sunday, July 23,at 7:30 p.m. On their Endless Honeymoon Tour, the married comedians perform stand-up and offer live relationship advice that will keep couples laughing. Leggero is known for Comedy Central roasts, Showtime’s “Dice” and as the creator and star of “Another Period.” Kasher is host of the Comedy Central talk show “Problematic,” a regular on “@midnight” and the author of the memoir “Kasher in the Rye.” Tickets are $31.50 to $41.50.
ROCKERS – Ratt & Ace Frehley – perform at the Hard Rock Live on Saturday, July 22 at 8p.m. 1980s metal band Ratt teams up with Frehley, the former lead guitarist and founding member of the rock band Kiss. Tickets are $30-$70 and can be purchased at TicketMaster.com.
“Stray,” a bromantic comedy series, will be released this weekend by gay streaming service Dekkoo.
The series features Jay, a brash gay dude, and Rich, a nerdy straight guy, who talk sex and relationships while reconnecting in New York City years after college.
The teaser clip, titled “How Gay Are You?” unambiguously sets the tone for this refreshingly frank and funny series. And like Dekkoo’s original dramedy “I’m Fine,” episodes are only minutes long, in this case, averaging just over three minutes per episode.
From a quick perusal of gay pop culture websites and social media, it’s clear that gays have a fascination – if not fetish-like obsession – with straight, “bro” culture, yet there is scant evidence of the reverse, aside from homophobia. Enter “Stray” – created and written by, hello, a straight guy, New Yorker Pablo Andreu.
WATCH:
Andreu says he was inspired to create a show about mo-bro friendship because, “I didn’t see anything out there that quite represented the dynamic my close friend and I have – one in which a pair of male friends joke with each other, pick on each other, posture and share thoughts on sex and attraction…where sexual orientation is at once topical and incidental to the friendship.”
Eschewing stereotypes, instead of a battle of clichés Andreu has given us a more realistic conversation between a swaggering bro-ish gay dude and a not-so-bro-ish, mild-mannered straight guy, which is key to the show’s refreshing, reality-check realness.
When asked who did you write the show for curious straight guys or curious gay guys? Andreu says, “I honestly didn’t know. The dynamic between the two main characters made me chuckle, so I figured I’d keep writing until I stopped chuckling.”
While some may categorize “Stray” as a gay-themed show, as there are only two characters – one gay, one straight – the show is a balance of the two.
An interesting take-away from “Stray” is that the show highlights an overlooked and occasionally commented on truth that there are loads of gay guys out there who have much more in common with straight men than they do with straight women – a welcome truth that may surprise as many gay as straight guys. “I think that’s spot on,” says Andreu. “Desire and attraction manifest quite similarly in gay guys and straight guys. The object of attraction just happens to be different.”
To my eternal regret, my roommate discovered the gym. Now that he’s down to a 34 waist, his eyes narrow every time I go near the fridge or crack open a beer. Now he’s on me about working out, promising my sex life would be better. He swears he gets harder and stays up longer now that he’s “in f–king shape.” Is he making this s–t up to get me to the gym, or can you really improve your sex life by getting in shape?
— Say it isn’t so
Dear Say:
Well, I’d love to be able to tell you to go ahead and eat that second helping of pie, but I’d be lying. Most studies show being overweight drastically increases your chances of developing some form of Erectile Dysfunction.
A while ago the Harvard School of Public Health presented a study showing that men with a waistline measuring 42 inches or more were almost twice as likely to be impotent than men with a 32 inch waist. Inactive men who didn’t exercise at least 30 minutes a day were also much more likely to suffer sexual problems.
So, sorry guy. Losing weight really will improve your sex life. Why? Because being overweight or inactive isn’t good for blood circulation and that ain’t good for erections.
Look at it this way: Because of your weight, your sex life is probably limited to men who got trapped in your gravitational pull, right? By slimming down you can expand the number of people willing to throw out the welcome mats. Hey Woody!
So I wake up one day after a night of total debauchery to find myself in an empty bed with a sore a–, dirty condoms and what looked like tread marks on my throat. I freaked! Not about my a– (been there, done that), but my neck! It was practically covered with red, splotchy bruises. Woody, what are they and how do I get rid of them?!
— Necking gone awry
Dear Necking:
You woke up with a sore a–, a used condom, an empty bed and no recollection of what happened? Man, you are class with a capital K.
Would you let someone drive your car if the brakes weren’t working? Then why let someone drive you when yours aren’t? You need to wheel yourself in to the nearest brake shop for a realignment. It’ll only cost about $150 an hour, without health insurance. As for the bruises on your throat…what, did you sleep through high school? They’re hickeys, whorina. They’re made when guys suck your neck through slightly parted teeth, rupturing small blood vessels under the skin.
To reduce the size of a hickey, apply cold packs every 15 minutes for the first two hours. Well, that’s for conscious people. For the unconscious who wake up with a sore ass and amnesia, it’s probably too late for ice. Try therapy. And maybe a topical vitamin K (make sure it’s a cream containing phytonadione).
There is no other substance on the planet that is more essential to life than water, good old H20. Water is the most abundant substance in your body, making up 75% of your total body weight and 90% of your blood volume. Water is vital to every one of your bodily systems – from your heart to your reproductive system. While you can survive for weeks without food, you can survive only a few days or less without water.
Water is responsible for a host of important bodily functions. Temperature regulation is controlled by water. If you do not have sufficient amounts of water in your body, cooling cannot take place. Your digestive system operates with the help of water, and your joints are lubricated by this illustrious substance.
Water is also responsible for the actions involved in energy production. It is required for the digestion of food, helping your body to convert food to energy and get rid of waste. Water helps your kidneys flush out toxins. Drinking more water helps your liver metabolize fat. Water can even make you look healthy by actually making your skin look younger.
Drinking more water can help you with nagging daily problems. Bothered by food cravings even though you are eating healthy? Try drinking some water instead of grabbing for the chips or M&M’s. You may be just a little dehydrated. Feeling tired and cranky? Your body may be telling you that you need to drink water. Troubled by constipation? Increase water consumption and your problems will be solved.
It’s recommended by The International Sports Sciences Association that you consume plenty of water, at least 8 to 10 eight ounce glasses per day, especially 20 minutes before working out and following high carbohydrate meals. Don’t wait until you are thirsty before drinking water. By the time your body reaches that point, you’re already dehydrated.
Here are some tips on how to uptake water consumption. Have a tall glass of water when you get up each day. Try to drink 4 ounces of pure water every hour throughout the day.
Prepare for exercise by hydrating with water before you begin your work out. Sip water while exercising to replace what is lost as you perspire in order to keep up your energy level. I always prefer water as opposed to other sports drink that are heavy in sugar and corn syrup. You can, however, add a small amount of juice to flavor it up if you get bored.
Finally, make sure your water is pure. Bottled water can be a little expensive. Today, there are a number of water purification systems available for home and public use. Charcoal is often used as a purifying agent in water and a simple filter can be installed on any kitchen faucet.
Tom Bonanti is a certified personal trainer and massage therapist in Fort Lauderdale. Contact Tom at trainertomb@aol.com or (954) 557-1119 to set up a free consultation. Check out www.pumpnincgym.com.
Have you raped a rainbow today?
No, that isn’t from a Skittles advertisement gone wrong. It’s just what LGBTQ people do. Take things away from good Christians and rape them out of spite..
At least that’s what Linda “human-frown-that-won’t-turn-upside-down” Harvey claims. She wants to take the rainbow away from the gays and give it back to God (the Christian God, obviously). And as we all know, June is an especially traumatic month for rainbows. And bigots, incidentally.
According to Harvey, God created the rainbow to “convey simple joy, innocence and purity of heart.”
“It’s clear God did not intend for the rainbow to represent rebellion, iniquity and division,” Harvey writes in an “exclusive” column for World Nut Daily. “So how did this precious symbol become the banner, with few objections, for human depravity, lust, defiance and heresy?”
I know that conservative Christians hate science, but I feel it’s important to point out here that the scientific explanation for how rainbows form is when sunlight and rain get together and decide to do gay stuff.
“The sweet rainbow image has been violated, raped by the deluded and fraudulent, and it now serves too often as a garish signpost for slavery to grave homosexual sin,” Harvey laments.
See? I told you she thinks LGBTQ people are rainbow rapers [SIC].
In reality, the rainbow flag was designed and adopted in 1978 by artist Gilbert Baker (who just died in March) at the request of Harvey Milk. The idea was a symbol to represent the LGBTQ community’s pride and diversity (not, as Harvey puts it, “grave homosexual sin”). The flag became especially popular after Milk was assassinated.
And now, the rainbow has become a mainstream symbol of LGBTQ pride, which angers folks like Harvey who think that LGBTQ people should live in shame and fear, hence the need for LGBTQ pride in the first place.
“Rainbow flags are flown in America from some government buildings, at some of our embassies, and these colors on several occasions even lit up our White House (under the former regime, thank God),” she writes.
Yes, thank God we now have a man in the White House who doesn’t stoop to the level of celebrating our country’s LGBTQ citizens and just brags about grabbing women’s p*ssies instead, as God intended.
So what should those offended by rainbows do?
“As Christians, we have [the] option [to sue],” she writes, “but believers in Jesus Christ don’t always go this route because we are more secure than that.”
Yes, believers in Jesus are so secure says the woman complaining that gay rainbows hurt her feelings.
Another option, she says, is to “trademark the rainbow,” which she acknowledges is “probably impossible.”
I have a better idea. If anti-LGBTQ Christians want to reclaim the rainbow so badly, they should tattoo a rainbow across their faces and include the words “God’s Property” in letters large and bold enough to be read from a distance.
If enough conservative Christians did this, LGBTQ people would surely abandon the rainbow in droves and have to adopt another symbol. May I suggest the smiley face?
D’Anne Witkowski is a poet, writer and comedian living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been writing about LGBT politics for over a decade. Follow her on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski.
-Actress CHARLIZE THERON, talking about her lesbian sex scene in the upcoming movie, “Atomic Blonde.”
“I hope that we can make a powerful statement to say that we believe that trans people are cherished and loved by God, who created them, and is present through all the twists and turns of their lives.”
-Rev. CHRIS NEWLANDS, spokesman for the Church of England which just voted to condemn gay conversion therapy and welcome transgender people into the Anglican faith.
“I’m not a lawyer, but I am a Texan. I’m disgusted by all this. Tell the lieutenant governor I don’t want the suicide of a single Texan on my hands.”
-Republican House Speaker JOE STRAUS of Texas, who blocked Texas’ ‘bathroom bill’ which would have banned trans people from using public restrooms matching their gender identity. Straus told The New Yorker he was disheartened to watch the Republican Party become increasingly influenced by Christian ideologues and cultural concerns at the expense of economic issues.
“When people have so much hate toward black people, and that hate gets ignited when they find out these people of color are refined, dignified, smart, successful and beautiful, we get this kind of virulent and vile reaction from the most hate-filled, racist Americans in the country. Unfortunately, we’re now learning that there are many, many more than we previously had thought – before a certain orange person normalized this sort of thing. That’s okay though, we know who they are. Disgusting.”
-JASON GONZALEZ, Fort Lauderdale
“Utterly ignorant and classless, Mr. Woods. I’m friends with this family. You know not of what you speak, and should be ashamed of yourself.”
-Actor NEIL PATRICK HARRIS, responding to comments made by James Woods about a proud family who shared a photo of their young son wearing make-up. “Wait until this poor kid grows up, realizes what you’ve done, and stuffs both of you dismembered into a freezer in the garage.”
“Some days you just gotta lay around binge-watching Bob’s Burgers. I don’t make the rules, I just follow them.”
-JINKX MONSOON, entertainer and winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 5.
