Romney Grilled on Gay Marriage by Gay NH Veteran
When GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney sat down next to a patron wearing a Vietnam veteran’s cap, Romney wanted to ask him about his military service. But 63-year-old Bob Garon wanted to talk about gays in the military — because he is a gay veteran. Garon was sitting in a booth across from his husband, BobLemire, at Chez Vachon, a must-stop diner for politicians looking for votes in the New Hampshire primary. Garon and Lemire eat there nearly every morning. The owners call them “The Bobs.”www.BigGayNews.com
Will Gingrich Lead the Pack?
Trying to play safe and stick to the GOP rightest, Republican presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich says he supports the ban on same sex marriage to a conservative Iowa group. He would support a national constitutional amendment banning same sex marriages! Of course this isn’t being bigoted. Questionable because of his change of position a few years ago on equality and gay rights issues. Gingrich’s gay half sister says she supports President Barack Obama.
Press Release: Tampa Bay Leather n Fetish Pride 2011
The Tampa Bay Leather and Fetish Community came out in full force as they participated in the first Tampa Bay Leather n Fetish Pride event hosted by the Tampa Bay Leather Tribe November 11-13, 2011 at the Flamingo Resort in St. Petersburg Florida.The three day Pride event also hosted the Tampa Bay Leather Sir and Tampa Bay Leather boy contest.
The overall attendance for the entire weekend was well above 1000 participants who took part in many of the activities.Friday evening’s portion opened at sunset with the National Anthem, sung by Ft. Lauderdale’s Ms. Kitty, as the Pride board of directors raised the American flag a few hours earlier. The Leather Sir and Leather boy contest meet and greet followed.Master of Ceremonies for the event was the one and only Bobby McKenzie, Mama’s Tampa Craftsman, Mr. Florida Leather 1996, and Co-Chair of the Tribe.Matt Wolf, Mr Gulf Coast Florida Leather 09, Chief of the Tribe, and Mama’s Muppet was presented the 2011 Florida Pantheon Regional Award by fellow Pantheon winners, Bill Hoeppner, Woodie Barnes, and Dave Watts. The evening continued with poolside demos which included fire play, rope suspension, food play, whips, and electro play.
Saturday, participants attended three educational workshops as the contestants for the Tampa Bay Leather Sir and Leather boy concluded their interviews with the judges. The workshops were Safe, Sane, Consensual and RACK themed beginning with a health presentation on HIV/AIDS and Cancer, followed by a Leather History and Herstory panel lead by Caro, Ms. Olympus 2005 and other Elders of the Community.Lastly, the educational workshops concluded with a Sensation Station RACK class allowing folks to explore new skills and forms of play. Along with various area vendors, demos continued throughout the course of the event as Saturday afternoon’s Living Memorial lead by Ross Scudder, member of Chicago’s Hellfire Club was held poolside at sunset. MCC Reverend Phyllis Hunt and the Tampa Order of Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence were present to assist.
Saturday evening opened the speech and jock portion of the Tampa Bay Leather Sir/Leather boy contest produced by Daddy Jeff and boy woodie. Tradition followed with the announcement of Tim Gill of Paragon Leather as winner of the 2011 Tampa Bay Brotherhood Award.A special performance was given by renowned performer Cyon Flare as DJ Phil DaBeatz (Chicago) spun till the late hours. The Leather Tribe is pleased to announce the winners of the 2012 Tampa Bay Leather Sir/Leather boy contest, Sir Frank and boy rick, who will go on to represent the Tampa Bay Community at the 2012 Florida Regional Leather Sir/Leather boy contest in February. (FLLeathersir.com)
The Co-Chief of the Tribe announced and awarded the Bill “Trooper” Boyd “Best in Show” Memorial award to Pup Flip for his outstanding service as a puppy and for continuing the tradition Bill began as “Best in Show” at IML 31.Over 30 Leather Brothers and Sisters gathered for a Mama’s Family photo before the Sunday’s Family Luncheon/Contest Victory Party and further award announcements. The Community Choice award was presented to Puppy Graphics for outstanding dedication to the community and the Tampa Bay Leather Tribe Chief’s award was given to Tim Gill for his dedication towards increasing communication, helping to educate, and unifying the Community. Checks in excess of $500.00 were presented to the event-designated charities. Sunday’s luncheon was followed by a Military themed T-Dance and an afternoon of entertainment with a concert performed by Cyon Flare along with Tampa’s own Leather Drag Kamden Cass and the Face of the Flamingo Resort, Alexis De Lamar.
The Tribe is pleased to announce the date for next year’s event has been set for November 9-11, 2012 as we continue to help increase communication, awareness, and education throughout the Community locally, regionally, and nationally.For more information please visit: http:www.tampabayleathernfetishpride.com
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HARLEM CITY NIGHTS
Where:The Kotton Club
a.k.a Marti Maceo Club
1226 E 7th Ave
Tampa, FL
When:December 18th, 6PM to 10PM
DELICIOUS HOR DOURVES
GREAT MUSIC
Edgar Wilcox (formerly with Dizzy Gillespie)
Kitty Daniels (formerly with Jackie Wilson)
Ernie Calhoun (formerly with Jackie Wilson)
Majid Shabazz (formerly with John Coltraine & Sil Austin)
Michel Royal (formerly with John Coltraine)
Relive a fabulous night of old Harlem as talented actors and musicians become the characters of Harlem’s Underworld!Dress in your own style or become a Harlem Renaissance character of your choice!
Advance Admission: $25 call 813 850-5116 or 301-0492
Trusted Tips from Your Travel Advisor Legendary Journeys
Being your travel advisor is more than offering you enchanting vacations to the far reaches of the globe. It also involves offering you personal support and helpful advice to enhance all your travel experiences, whether near or far.
The Travel Tips below are chock-full of important information that will help you travel the world safely and efficiently. Our agency simply wants you to have the best experiences possible, wherever you travel.
As always, please feel free to contact us about your future travel plans.
Now featuring such wondrous attractions as surf simulators, waterslides, aqua-theatres, boardwalks, zip-lines and more, cruise ships have become quite amazing places in and of themselves. Many people assume that they will spend all their time onboard going from activity to activity, but the truth is, you will spend a lot of time in your cabin.
Because of this, many travelers are choosing to upgrade their interior cabin for a balcony stateroom, but is it worth it? Speaking as someone who has been on many cruises, we can say with confidence that YES, it is worth it! Here are the reasons why:
The View — The ever-changing view that cruises provide is greatly enhanced when experienced in the ease and comfort of your balcony. Just imagine sitting on your own private balcony, sipping champagne and watching your ship pull into Barcelona or sail next to a glacier!
The Space — While all cabins are extremely comfortable and well-appointed, the main difference is space. With a balcony to call your own, the limitless ocean becomes one of the four walls of your stateroom, making it feel incredibly spacious.
The Cost — Balconies do cost more than an inside cabin. But when you divide that cost by the length of your sailing, the per-day cost to treat yourself is quite low.
The Escape — Even though cruise ships are sizeable, with plenty of room for everyone to enjoy, it’s still valuable to have that one place to escape to and enjoy the cruise in total peace and quiet.
The Option — Another terrific possibility for cruise passengers is upgrading to a cabin with concierge service. Having a concierge’s assistance is invaluable, as he or she will help you secure reservations at onboard restaurants, book the ideal shore excursions, get you priority seating for on-ship events, provide insider information and much more.
Five Things to Know Before Shipping Your Luggage
There are many options when it comes to traveling, a truism travel agents know better than anyone. One such option, to avoid airline baggage fees or to simplify your time at the airport, is to ship your luggage to your destination. Here are five things to consider before employing such a tactic.
1. Shipping your luggage makes the most financial sense when you’re dealing with overweight suitcases and domestic flights. While many airlines now charge for checked bags, the cost is generally less expensive than shipping…unless your luggage is overweight, which airlines charge quite a bit extra to check. Also, shipping overseas is seldom wise, since many air carriers allow you to check one or two free bags on international flights.
2. There are several benefits to shipping your luggage. National shippers like FedEx and UPS have a better success rate than airlines at delivering your bags. Plus, their tracking codes let you know where you valuables are at all times. And shipping saves you time at the airport, since you don’t have to queue up pre-flight to off-load your bags or mull around the baggage carousal after your flight—a true benefit for those travelling with children.
3. There are several disadvantages to shipping too. You have to pack and ship days before you travel, making it difficult to make any last-minute adjustments. Also, you’ll need someone to sign for your package, which is easy if you’re travelling to see family, but not so if you’re flying for business, in which case you might need to request that the shipping company hold your bag until you can pick it up. And finally, it’s wise to purchase insurance when shipping your luggage, which will cost you a few extra bucks.
4. Know your hotel. Call to confirm ahead of time your hotel’s shipping address (which may differ from its street address), whether they accept bags at the front desk and if you will incur a fee for doing so.
5. Sports Equipment – Instead of shipping sports equipment such as skis, it may be cheaper to rent once you arrive. The benefit of renting is that you may end up with better equipment or at least get a chance to try out a different brand or style.
What to Pack for an All-Inclusive Vacation
Our clients book all-inclusive vacations in order to play, relax, eat and drink to their heart’s desire while being surrounding by a wealth of included amenities and activities. Packing for such a vacation can be perplexing, however, since resorts often assert that they have everything you need for the perfect vacation. While that may be true, you should consider the following before packing for you amazing vacation.
Ask your travel agent about your resort. We have personally stayed at many of the resorts we sell, so we know exactly what activities, amenities and services are free. We also know if a specific resort allows you to bring outside food or beverages, such as a special bottle of wine you’ve been saving for your anniversary.
Bring smaller items or specific brands. All-inclusive resorts will supply the basics when it comes to toiletries, so you should bring the smaller accessories or specific brands that you just can’t live without, such as your toothbrush, make-up, grooming supplies, medications and so on. Also, you’re most likely going to be outside a lot, so it’s paramount that you pack sunscreen.
Leave all beach and entertainment items at home. All-inclusive resorts specialize in fun, so all your beach and entertainment needs will be taken care of. Leave your bulky beach towels, snorkeling gear, family games and movies at home.
Don’t forget a wide range of clothes. Most resorts are located on gorgeous beaches, so packing your favorite bathing suits and other warm-weather attire is a no-brainer. However don’t forget to also bring athletic gear for the gym, tennis courts or golf course, as well as light evening wear for on-site clubs and romantic dinners.
Pro tip: bring a travel mug. You will be drinking a lot—from coffee and mimosas in the morning, to margaritas and iced tea on the beach. Insulated travel mugs keep your hot drinks hot and your cold drinks cold as you wander about and enjoy all the resort has to offer.
Travel Etiquette 101: Scandinavia & United Arab Emirates
When traversing the globe, we should never forget that we are guests in the countries we visit. Acting respectfully of the local customs is not just preferred but expected, so you should be prepared and know which actions are acceptable. With that in mind, here are general etiquette introductions to Scandinavia and the United Arab Emirates.
Scandinavia
Never Call Someone a “Scandinavian” — While the three countries that comprise Scandinavia—Norway, Sweden and Denmark—share many cultural similarities, they still maintain strong independent national identities. Refer to each country’s people individually (ie. Norwegians, Swedes, Danes) rather than collectively. Also, inhabitants of Finland and Iceland, while sometimes included with their Scandinavian neighbors, are more accurately classified as Nordic.
All Men & Women Are Created Equal — Equality of the sexes plays a strong role in Scandinavian society, in both professional and familial roles, so always treat both sexes the same. That being said, chivalry still has a place, so men should never shy away from opening a door for lady.
No Time for Chit Chat — Scandinavians typically avoid idle conversation. So as much as you’re tempted to ask, “How are you doing?” it’s best to be direct with your conversation while looking them directly in the eyes.
Don’t be Late for Dinner Parties — Scandinavians tend to be extremely punctual, so if you are invited to someone’s home for a meal, show up on time. Also, a small gift is expected, such as sweets for the host’s children or a bottle of wine for the host.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Respect Goes Both Ways — Consisting of seven principalities or sheikdoms, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a rising star in the travel world. Although 80% of the population is Muslim, the country is, in general, very tolerant of all visitors in order to appease the business travelers who frequent Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Travelers, however, should never take this tolerance for granted. Both men and women should show respect for the country’s religious beliefs by dressing moderately and not showing a lot of skin.
Please Drink Responsibly — While most of the Muslim population stays clear of alcohol, it is still available in select restaurants and nightclubs. If you partake, drink responsibly in order to refrain from any “boorish” activities, which might attract the attention of local authorities.
Meet and Greet — Greet everyone in the room with a gentle handshake, direct eye contact, a smile and a polite “Salaam aleikum,” or “Peace be upon you” (the reply to which is “Aleikum assalaam,” or “and on you peace”). As with many Middle Eastern countries, always shake with your right hand, since the left is occasionally used for less sanitary purposes.
Sit Up, Soles Down — When sitting in a group, slouching is considered rude, so sit straight. Also, the soles of your shoes should remain on the ground and never be pointed in someone’s direction.
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Behind the Scenes: Working & Touring with David Bowie
Tony Michaelidies, David Bowie publicist, will kick-off each show with stories & pictures & never-before-seen video clips from his time working & touring with Bowie. Get there early!
WMNF & BAAMO & WSLR & Sarasota Music Scene Present:
We Can Be Heroes: David Bowie’s 65th Birthday Tribute
Behind the Scenes: Working & Touring with David Bowie
A Special Presentation by Tony Michaelidies
On a cold Manchster February afternoon in 1969, 15 year old Tony Michaelides cut class and headed to The Magic Village club to catch a rare solo acoustic set by his already idol, David Bowie. He was at the Hard Rock in 1972 when the Ziggy Stardust tour came to town. As a teenage fan, how could he imagine that 25 years later, he would be on tour with Bowie as his publicist? It’s the stuff dreams are made of and Tony is the consummate story-teller.
Tony’s also a pack rat and he has memorabilia and never-before-seen footage of the most innovative artist of our generation. These nuggets form the story board of Tony’s 32 year journey from wild-eyed fan to trusted advisor.
Tony is cataloging and scanning decades of images to share during his 30-minute presentation, “Behind the Scenes: Working & Touring with David Bowie.” He’s even going through mountains of UK video tapes to find special segments to include. This is a never-before, never-again chance to get a unique first-hand view into the artist, the entrepreneur, and the person behind the legend.
Tony Michaelides will talk for 30 minutes beginning at 7:00 pm at the State Theater in St. Petersburg on Friday, January 6; at 6:00 pm at Skipper’s Smokehouse in Tampa on Saturday, January 7; and at 4:00 pm on Sunday, January 8 at Cock & Bull in Sarasota. A brief Q & A period will follow.
Tony Michaelides has been lauded by the best of the best. “One of the UK’s foremost record promoters and undoubtedly one of the best that U2 have had the pleasure of working with” (Paul McGuinness, Manager U2). “Tony Michaelides is a legend”( Estelle Wilkinson, Manager, Coldplay 2002 -2006). In addition to David Bowie and U2, Tony’s worked with many other superstars, including The Police, Peter Gabriel, Whitney Houston, Matchbox Twenty, Massive Attack, Neneh Cherry, Annie Lennox … and the list goes on and on.
Tony’s book‘Insights from the Engine Room’ (Lessons learned from Rock and Roll) is littered with wonderful stories and valuable lessons. ‘It’s about the music industry and it’s about the people I met along the way, it’s about teaching some and learning from others. It’s about how they stared at failure and how they handled success. It’s about where they came from and where they went and what happened to them in between.’
Tony adores talking and speaks in quotable chunks: (727) 234-5717
Complementary Drinks, Appraisers, Entertainment & More
GaYBOR Bar Crawl This Sunday
Pick Up yourT-Shirts at MC Film NOW
Small Business Shopping Day; A Success
As Black Friday came on a late Thanksgiving night, shoppers had there list out and checked it twice. To se where the bargains were. We were proud that American Express Services along with major labor groups and individually owned businesses took the initiative to let shoppers know how to help the struggling economy. Shop Small Business. Big box stores are here but the money spent goes out of the communities.
A lot of long weekend shoppers came in to MC FILM to shop and were also shopping independent cigar shops like King Corona, Tribecca Hair Salon and area restaurants to show that they cared. And it is a gift item everyone can use be it local theatre shows, lawn care, house cleaning service, car serviced or a dentists visit to get your teeth cleaned, the independent service industry needs all our help. Buy gift certificates or gift cards! BUT don’t stop now, great deals at small businesses are to be had!
We whole heartedly say… THANK YOU!
People are Talking
The rest of this month looks like one big contentious Party in the GaYBOR District!!! It now looks like we will have time to rest up sometime in the middle of January!!! GaYBOR is full of surprises &excitement!!! Holiday parties are booked everywhere.Laughing Cat, Bradley’s on 7th, Hamburger Mary’s, Steam, Don Vicente Inn, Gaspar’s Grotto & many more all are hosting fun parties. After the Y.C.D.C. Holiday Party a fun group partied the night away at The Ybor Social. In the basement of Ybor Social, “That 70’s Bar” has been spinning great 70’s & 80’s music. At Hamburger Mary’s there was a wedding proposal on stage at the end of Daphne Ferraro’s Drag Show!!! Every Saturday on the Hamburger Mary’s balcony you will find Tea Cup mixing up drinks. What a Great way to start a Saturday Night. Miss Sherry Vine of NYC was in the house at Steam Fridays. Her performance was comical & just plain fantastic. Back stage there was a wild party. Out on the balcony Miss Teresa was spotted with out of town visitors. Bradley’s on 7th hosted former Miss SouthernStates Continental Plus, Miss Melissa Masons Birthday Party. Miss Joey Brooks pulled the newest Hottie from Michigan to move to Ybor, Josh, up on stage & got him to show his micro phone tat to everybody!!! Don Arnold was spotted picking up homeless guitar musicians with his limo for a holiday party at Valentine’s Bar. We can just imagine what the party was like. Tripp hosted his annual Holiday Party at The Liquid Lounge. Liquid co-owner Manny was on one of the holiday floats in the Macy’s Day Parade in New York City! Wow now for the character balloon ride. A new video release about Tampa strip club owner, political candidate and humanitarian, Joe Redner. “Strip Club King:The Story of Joe Redner;” had a showing on Harbor Island last weekend. Known as the Larry Flynn of the South, Joe is a respected first amendment, religious & political activist and also owns the Mons Venus Strip Club in Tampa. And the BIG PARTY of the week had to be at Don Vicente Historic Inn for the Tampa Bay BartendersGuild Holiday Party with 500 attending this “share the bottle with your bartender friend” affair! The liquor companies sponsored the area bartenders appreciation fest including Stoli Vodka!
RED & GREEN: St. Pete Pride Benefit
A Benefit for St. Pete Pride is the 2nd Annual Red & Green Party at the famous Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg Saturday, Dec 10th!. A full night of jazz by classical jazz vocalist Rose Bilal, performances by local Diva singing star IMAN. Great food catered by Orange Blossom Caterers, open bar and VIP Parking with a nighttime walk through the famous lush tropical gardens, 6-10 pm. $75.00 per ticket or buy 2 offer and save $20 and a chance to win tickets to singing great Diva Patti Labelle in Concert, Feb 1, 2012 at Ruth Eckerd Hall. It will be a full house!!
Candidate Michele Bachmamn Hears An 8 Year Old Boys Truth
Presidential contender Michele Bachmann heard a surprising comment from an 8 Year old boy, Elijah on her book tour. On Bachmann’s new book tour, “Core of Conviction:My Story,” in South Carolina the young boy stood in line to meet the potential presidential candidate. He wanted to whisper something to her and said, ” My Mommy, Miss Bachmann… my Mommy’s gay but she doesn’t need fixing!”
The moment was caught on video by local TV stations. Bachman was caught off guard and offered no further comment. www.huffingtonpost.com
Historic Holiday Spirit Tree Lighting+ PLUS in Ybor City
Putting up a 34′ tree with a 4 ‘ star on top isn’t easy but Yborian and set designer, Matheiu Stanoch and his many elves climbed the branches to get it glowing for the Nov 30th Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Centro Ybor. Businesses all around Historic Ybor City helped make the festive holiday kick off event happen. Hundreds of people attended the first Ybor City Historic HolidaySpirit lighting along with hundreds of children who had a chance to meet Santa Claus in his big fluffy chair. YCDC Manager Vince Pardo introduced the great team of players putting on the event including Stephen Moss of the Florida Entertainment Group, YCDC Board Members and the GaYBOR District Coalition. Tampa City Council Chairman Charlie Miranda had the honor of hitting the switch before a countdown was given.
“It really adds sparkle to Ybor in a dim economy. It really looks great.” said a father and his 2 kids. His 2 young children agreed! The long Santa line had them get free hot chocolate at Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea and a free sandwich from the soon to open Jimmy Johns Gourmet Sandwiches. Over 250 children some happy – some scared, had a chance to sit with busy Santa and their eyes widened with anticipation. Anxious parents and grandparents took 100’s of family pictures.
Actually all of 7th Ave, 8th Ave and Centennial Park are beautifully lighted with colorful decorated garland. A full month long event of festive holiday activities for the whole family still include Holiday Art in the Park Art Show, 25 cent rides on the TECO Streetcar – Dec 10th, Photos with Santa and Snow on 7th, Dec 17th, 8-10pm. FMI www.YborEvents.com
