Category Archives: From the MC Film Mail Bag

From the MC Film Mail Bag

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Hillsborough Community College Ybor Art Gallery presents

 

The Cuban Sandwich Show

All Art-All Tampa-No Mayo

August 3-30, 2012

Opening Reception, Friday, August 3 5:30-9:00pm

Fan Still from the installation Fanattix, by Laszlo Horvath, paying homage to a vintage industrial fan in the West Tampa Santaella Cigar Factory

Performing Arts Building, First Floor, Palm Ave and 15th Street

813.253.7674

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From: brando108@gmail.com
To: dishingmcfilm@aol.com
Subj: Corpus Christi/I AM Love Campaign
Hello- I’m writing today as we continue outreach to bring our tour of the “I AM Love” Campaign to the Tampa/St Pete area. The Campaign addresses religious bullying, especially within the LGBT community, and is a combination of our internationally-acclaimed production of Terrence McNally’s Corpus Christi, a screening of our new documentary feature based on our journey, as well as a community symposium with gay and religious leaders in dialogue about the issues.

We are specifically looking for a local venue who will help us produce this event and your name was brought to our attention as a community leader who might be able to help or at least point us in the right direction. We are ideally looking at mid-October for the weekend event. To give you a fuller idea of what this Campaign is about and what we are looking for, I’ve included a more detailed outline below of our proposal. We will begin the tour in September with 3-5 cities in Iowa, ending in Chicago. We are also looking at Orlando in October and would love to include Tampa/St Pete in this experience.

Thanks for the consideration and please don’t hesitate to write should you have any more questions or inspired thoughts,

James Brandon
Producer
323-203-6322

WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE ARE DOING

The I Am Love Campaign is an anti-bullying movement designed to educate and open minds through artistic endeavors and community outreach. We travel with the campaign to bring it directly into the communities that are calling out for it or that we feel would directly benefit from it. We typically look for states and cities that have issues with equality and a need for starting a better dialogue. Our aim is to change the story on bullying and ignite conversations within communities that will move them to a better understanding and acceptance of differences. This first year of the campaign will take a strong focus on bullying of LGBT youth and bullying with a religious/spiritual standpoint in particular.

Our web site is a great tool for you and others you might want to share it with to become familiar with our mission- corpuschristi-themovie.com

This year the Campaign is centered around the play Corpus Christi and the documentary based on the play that explores where (if at all) the LGBT community finds itself at the table of faith and why they would want to return. Religious dogma seems to be at the heart of every aspect for blocking full equality to LGBT individuals. Each stop on our national tour will include a community event like a symposium of leaders, town hall style meeting, workshop or gathering to discuss issues affecting the community such as bullying, marriage equality, racial discourse and general issues of civil rights.

In each city over a period of two or three days the I AM Love Campaign would include:

1) A community event that would give voice to differing viewpoints and explore peaceful solutions.
2) A screening of the documentary Corpus Christi:Playing With Redemption.
3) Performances of the play Corpus Christi.

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From Officer Sean Mahabir
From: Sean.Mahabir@ci.tampa.fl.us
Sent: 7/27/2012 8:32:25 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time
Subj: RNC Town Meeting and Video/Picture of Taggers

Greetings,

 

Once again our Business Watch Members step up! (thank you to Honeypot, King Corona, and The Ritz!) Here is great video of the “taggers” (attached)…I really think these individuals work in Ybor City. This incident happened at 1:20 pm on Tuesday 7-10. If you know or see these guys on a daily basis…please contact me immediately. Do not share this information with them (hopefully they’re not your employees). The male with the light colored short sleeve shirt is over $1000 worth of damage to businesses in Ybor City. Let’s get em!

 

 

***For RNC updates during the event…sign up for Alert Tampa…letter from Chief Castor attached***

 

Mayor Bob Buckhorn to Host Town Hall Meetings on the Republican National Convention

 

Tampa, Fla. (July 25, 2012) – Mayor Bob Buckhorn will host three town hall meetings to answer questions and discuss the Republican National Convention’s impacts on residents and area businesses.

 

August 14, 2012 – The Florida Aquarium – Taylor Great Room

701 Channelside Drive

Tampa, FL 33602

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

 

August 15, 2012 – Stetson University – Smith Court Room

1700 North Tampa Street

Tampa, FL 33602

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

 

August 16, 2012 – Kate Jackson Community Center

821 S. Rome Ave.
Tampa, FL 33606

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

 

All meetings are free and open to the public.

 

Representatives from the Tampa Police Department, Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Office, Tampa Fire Rescue, Transportation and Parking Divisions, Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority, Department of Solid Waste and Environmental Program Management, and the Office of Special Events will be on hand to share with information and answer questions.

 

The City of Tampa will host the Republican National Convention from August 27, 2012 – August 30, 2012.

 

To find out more information about the Republican National Convention including road closures and possible detours, please visit tampagov.net/RNC.

 

 

Officer Sean Mahabir
Ybor City Liaison
Tampa Police Department – District III
3808 N. 22nd Street
Tampa, FL. 33610
Main (813) 242-3800
Cell (813) 480-1272
Fax (813) 242-3848
Email sean.mahabir@tampagov.net
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The Wizard of Oz

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! ONE NIGHT ONLY!
The Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project presents, “Annual Nite of Alternative Theatre: A WIZARD OF OZ”, a staged play reading with music.
Adapted by T. Scott Wooten, this hilarious and madcap send-up of the fabled classic by Frank L. Baum, is a rollicking good time!
Come join in the fun as Dorothy and her Friends follow the yellow brick road on an adventure like no other!

MATT McGEE as The Wicked Witch of the West; JOEY PANEK as Tin Man; BETTY JANE PARKS as Dorothy; DREW DeCARO as Cowardly Lion; JOEL GENNARI as Scarecrow; SARA DelBEATO as Glinda the Good Witch; JOE PARRA as the Wizard; MELISS KENWORTHY as Auntie Em; JERID FOX as The Munchkins and SCOTT DANIEL as Uncle Henry. MICHAEL RAABE will be making a special appearance at the keyboard.

This performance on Monday August 6th will benefit PWA (People with AIDS) programs at Metro Wellness and Community Centers and AIDS Service Association of Pinellas, Inc.

Performances start at 7:30 pm. Admission is Pay-What-You-Will and can be purchased online at www.americanstage.org or by phone 727-823-PLAY.

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TransGender-TampaBay, Inc. and the NYNA FUND
PLEASE HELP
TRADEGY STRIKES
Nyna D. a waitress at the St. Petersburg Diner on 34th Street N in St. Petersburg, FL was
recently informed that she will no longer have a job, since the diner has been sold and will be
closing shortly.
As if being jobless was not tough enough, on the night of July 21,
2012, her apartment building was destroyed by a fire. Although
she managed to escape with smoke inhalation, all her
possessions, except the pajamas she was wearing, were
destroyed in this tragic fire.
Nyna Fund Update 001
07/25/12
To all those who have shown an interest in helping Nyna D. and
may have visited the TGTB website or made a donation, see link,
here is some more information.
Brianna Lovely, the Director of TransGender-TampaBay, Inc.,
visited with Nyna D. on July 24, 2012. She spent several hours talking with Nyna and
assuring her that she really did have “friends”, people who cared about her and wanted to
help, in her time of need.
After taking Nyna to a clinic for follow-up from smoke inhalation and other medical problems,
Brianna drove Nyna to a pharmacy to have her prescriptions filled, as all her medications
were destroyed in the house fire.
Apparently Nyna, who lived on the second floor, lost her home due to a fire “allegedly” started
by a first floor tenant. The police are investigating the matter as a possible arson and
attempted murder case.
Although Nyna managed to escape with her life, she did lose two cats in the fire, but
managed to rescue a parrot that she’s had for 36 years.
Brianna presented Nyna with a check from TGTB, Inc. and the “Nyna Fund”, along with a
couple of store gift cards.
As more donations are made to the “Nyna Fund”, checks will be issued from TGTB, Inc. to
Nyna D. on a weekly basis.
During our visit, between sobs and tears, Nyna said, I never knew anyone cared. I’m so
grateful to you and TransGender-TampaBay for helping me out.
Would you please help by going to: http://transgendertampabay.org/ and clicking on the link:
“NYNA FUND” near the bottom of the Gateway page?
You may also donate to TGTB, Inc. by going to http://transgendertampabay.org/ and clicking
on the PayPal link near the bottom of the Gateway page. Although our mission is to help
Transgender people, we do not discriminate.
Checks or money orders can be made out to TGTB, Inc., please note if you are donating to
TGTB or the NYNA FUND, and mailed to: TGTB, Inc., PO Box 16192, St Petersburg, FL
33733-6192
Thank You
Brianna Lovely
Director
TransGender-TampaBay, Inc.
TGTB@att.net
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UPCOMING MUSICAL PLAY

Join us for

Karaoke Night

at

Hamburger Mary’s
Ybor City

Tuesday, July 31
7:30 pm

Call (813) 241-6279 Today for Reservations!

25% of Food and Drink will be Donated to

m.a.d Theatre

Come Sing Your Hearts Out!

Maybe some ‘straight’ talk will help Rod…?

Kate needs a day at the spa!

Adopt-A-Puppet for

One Performance During

Avenue Q

For an Adoption Fee of only $50 you will receive the following:

  • Early admission into the Shimberg Playhouse for seat selection for you and your party (Regular ticket purchase required).
  • Meet and greet your adoptee and his/her handler.
  • Photo and Adoption Certificate.
  • Recognition at the performance.

Puppets available for adoption and their particular need or affliction:

Princeton (Commitment phobia)

Kate Monster (In need of a wax)

Rod (Log Cabin Republican)

Nicky (Hoarder)

Lucy (Lockjaw)

Trekkie (Internet porn addict)

Mrs. T. (Tinman syndrome)

Bad Idea Bears (Satan’s little helpers)

To adopt one of these puppets, click the link below to go to the adoption site. Please be aware that each puppet can only be adopted once for each performance, so adopt your puppet now.

Avenue Q Adopt-A-Puppet

Thank you for your support!
Directed by

Tony Gilkinson

Musical Direction by

Deborah D. Lynch


August 9-12 & 16-19

Thursday – Saturday 8:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday 2:00 pm

$20.00*
Buy Tickets

Shimberg Playhouse
David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

Warning: For Mature Audiences Only.

*Plus a Straz Center Service Charge

www.madtheatre.com • m.a.d. theatre on Facebook and Facebook groups •
• Follow us on twitter at @MAD_Theatre •

m.a.d theatre is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit community theatre that incorporates the three performing arts; Music, Acting, & Dance. For 12 years m.a.d theatre has delivered powerful, provocative, and affordable musical theatre to stages in the Tampa area. We are always looking for people who are interested in performing or volunteering, and for donors and corporate sponsors. m.a.d. theatre survives on your generosity! Contact us at Info@madtheatre.com for more information.

Donate to m.a.d. theatre

Shop Amazon and Support m.a.d. theatre using this link

From the MC Film Mail Bag

Posted on by

Alert Tampa a letter from Jane Castor

July 18, 2012

Dear Resident,

As the Republican National Convention approaches, the City of Tampa wants to ensure all citizens and business owners are well informed and safe during this large-scale event. In order for the City of Tampa to quickly and effectively communicate developing incidents connected to the RNC, it is imperative that everyone, especially the residents and office workers who will be in downtown Tampa during the event, register for Alert Tampa. Alert Tampa allows City officials to send out emergency and informational notifications over email to inform residents about city events including solid waste service changes, street closures, and critical threats.

The City of Tampa’s communication with our citizens was recently tested during Tropical Storm Debby. Since the storm, we have enhanced the system to provide timely and pertinent information. The alerts will help you and your family during the RNC and any other major incidents and events in Tampa. These time-sensitive notifications will be sent directly to your e-mail address, cell phone, and, in some instances, your home phone.

The service is free and it only takes a minute to sign up for these invaluable alerts. Just go to www.tampagov.net/alerttampa or call (813) 231-6184. Stay in the know, sign-up for Alert Tampa today!

Regards,

 
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The Cuban Sandwich Show: All Art. All Tampa. August 1-31

The annual Cuban Sandwich Show returns with a month long series of art and

cultural events whose sole subject is the city of Tampa. No mayo, thank you!

This annual celebration of all things Tampa is organized by the Artists and

Writers Group, Inc. Events featuring visual arts, literature, theater, music, and cuisine are scheduled throughout August. New events this year include a symposium discussing the history of Tampa cuisine, a food festival, and the First Annual Chicken Parade and Rooster Promenade in Ybor City.

David Audet, a founder and current artistic director of the Artists and Writers Group, was one of the artists in the first Cuban Sandwich Show in 1991, which was created by Gordon and Denise Myhre of Seminole Heights. David recently served with the Tampa City Council’s Cultural Assets Committee as chair of the ”Sub-committee to Identify the Historic Ingredients of the Cuban Sandwich”, which was proclaimed by Tampa City Council in April as the “official sandwich of Tampa.” This has lead to interesting arguments with Miami about sandwiches.

This month long show displays, for better or worse, the sense of whimsy, history, serious humor and other idiosyncrasies of Tampa’s creative citizens, ranging from professional visual and culinary artists to storytellers, historians, writers and other joyful fabricators of the truth. The mantra given to the participants is to play, be playful, while honoring the truths about our little city by the bay.

MASTER SCHEDULE-CUBAN SANDWICH SHOW 2012

 

August 1

Opening Night Celebration

7 p.m. Free

Grownman Brand Studios

6412 Central Ave. Seminole Heights Phone 813-238-6242

August 1-23

Kurt Piazza: Composite (System) Configuration

Gallery Hours Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Hillsborough Community College-Dale Mabry Campus,

Library, 3rd Floor Phone 813-831-8858

Nine large-scale architectural prints, including several Tampa building facade

August 2

Tampa Films and Filmmakers: Curated by Paul Guzzo

7 p.m. $3.

The Buzz Coffee Bar

710 Harbour Post Drive, Harbour Island

August 3-30

The Cuban Sandwich Show

Artists reception 5:30-9 p.m. August 3, Free

Gallery hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays; Tuesdays noon-7 p.m.

A group of Tampa artists create a labyrinth of spaces, objects and

audio illuminating the mysterious city sheltering them.

Hillsborough Community College-Ybor Campus.

HCC Performing Arts Building,

2204 N. 15th Street Tampa, FL 33605.

August 4

Absolut Art and Animals

1-4 p.m., $10. donation

Gaspar’s Grotto, Ybor City

1805 East 7th Ave., Tampa, Fl., 33605

A benefit for Animal-Based Charities; with a silent auction, artist Joanna Karpay painting animal portraits, and the revealing of a new mural depicting local pets.

August 5

Chusmeria de Ybor: Fables and Tales of Our Town

2-5 p.m. Free

King Corona Cigar Lounge, Ybor City

1523 East 7th Ave., Tampa, Fl. 33605

Open to all of Tampa;s storytellers, embellishers and taletellers.

Hear the “real” history of Tampa and Ybor. And believe it or not …

August 8

Strange Fruit: Readings by Tampa Writers and Poets

7 p.m. $3

Grownman brand Studios, Seminole Heights

6412 Central Ave., 33609 Phone 813-238-6242

Melissa Fair, Rhonda Nelson, Lisa Birnbaum, Don Morrill, Gianna Russo,

Cole Bellamy, Silvia Curbelo James E. Tokely, Sr.

August 11

Food for Thought: Forum on the History of Food in Tampa

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free

Hillsborough Community College -Ybor City, Performing Arts Building,

Corner of 14 Street and Palm Avenue. Phone 813-253-7674

10 a.m: History of Food in Tampa Panel Discussion

1:30 p.m: Living in America: 100 Years of Ybor. Film Director Gayla Jamison

will screen and host a panel discussion of her documentary.

3:30 p.m: I Am a Cuban Sandwich, a one-man performance by Richard DiPietra.

Panelists include moderator Tom Shereberger, from the Poytner Institute and former food editor for the St. Petersburg Times; Dr. Susan Greenbaum, Professor Emerita of Anthropology at University of South Florida; historian and USF scholar Gary Mormino, Chris Sherman, former restaurant critic for the St. Petersburg Times; Michelle and Robert Faedo, food truck owners, among others.

August 12-31

Epic of the Sandwiche Cubano and other Poems of Tampa

Artist’s Reception, Aug. 12 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Free. Regular hours, $10.

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts

400 N. Ashley Dr., 33602 Phone 813-221-2222

Photo installation based on the poetry of Tampa Poet Laureate James E. Tokely, Sr. Photographers include David Audet, Jeff Fey, Michelle Fader, Laslo Horavath, Peter Melarango, Fred Smith, Matt Wiggins.

August 12

Tampa Musicians Get Down

2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Free

New World Brewery, Ybor City

1313 8th Ave., 33605

August 18

Taste of the Cuban Sandwich

11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free

Cuban Club, Ybor City Phone 813-248-2954

Food fest featuring traditional Tampa cuisine, featuring winners of the Cuban Sandwich Festival held in Ybor in May, plus Cuban sandwiches from numerous local restaurants; plus roast pork, deviled crabs, empanadas, flan. Live music by Ray Viladonga and Dreamboat, and a special performance of I Am a Cuban Sandwich, a one-man performance by Richard DiPietra is scheduled.

August 19

BBQ Block Party and Chicken Parade and Rooster Promenade

2 p.m.-7 p.m. Free

Big Al’s BBQ, Gaspar’s Grotto, Dirty Shame, Ybor City

Lots of BBQ and drinks, live music, and a costume parade open to everybody: children, dogs, pirates, hipsters, and, of course, fowl of all feathers. Bring costumes, do-da hats, wagon floats and umbrellas as we celebrate the life and alas, demise of James E. Rooster, a famous feathered citizen of Ybor City. Parade begins around 6 p.m. Wear sunscreen and comfy shoes. Beads optional.

August 27-30

Common Sense

Various hours. Free, call for gallery hours.

West Tampa Center for the Arts,

906 N. Armenia Ave. www.wtca-arts.org

National juried art show highlighting socio-political issues and documenting current public sentiment as seen through the eyes of the artists.

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WMNF Premier of “Vegucated”

WMNF Presents Tampa Premier Of Acclaimed Documentary “Vegucated” Aug. 15, Plus Post-Screening Panel Discussion
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJuly 23 , 2012
WMNF 88.5 FM Community Radio is presenting the Tampa Bay Area premiere of “Vegucated”—an award-winning, feature-length documentary tracking three dyed-in-the-wool meat and cheese eating New Yorkers who accept a challenge to go vegan for six weeks—on August 15 at the Roosevelt 2.0 in Ybor City, 1812 N. 15th Street, Tampa.
“Vegucated” screens at 7:30 pm, followed by a panel discussion about the film and the issues it raises. Tickets are $9 and available online at www.WNNF.org or by calling the station: 813-238-8001. The Roosevelt will provide free vegan nibbles before the screening (offered closed captioned.)
“Vegucated” writer-director Marisa Miller Wolfson will discuss the film on WMNF’s “Talking Animals” August 15 at 11 am.
The three people at the center of “Vegucated” include Brian, the bacon-loving bachelor who eats out constantly; Ellen, the single mom who prefers performing comedy to cooking; and Tesla, the college student who goes out of her way to avoid vegetables and beans.
We see their challenges and triumphs in embracing a vegan diet, but “Vegucated” explores far more than just what this trio is eating for six weeks, widening out to look at animal agriculture, factory farming and related issues.
Part of what accounts for the film’s acclaim—it won Best Documentary at the 2011 Toronto Independent Film Festival—is its light, often-humorous tone. “Vegucated” is not preachy or ham-fisted–or tofu-fisted.
Those slated to appear on the post-screening panel discussion, representing viewpoints across the omnivore-to-vegan continuum, are Eve Prang Plews, nutritionist and host of WMNF’s “Alternative Health” program; Isabelle Tassi. chief organizer of Tampa Bay Veg Fest, longtime vegan and animal rights activist; Lee “Flee” Courtney, WMNF music director and host of Monday’s “It’s The Music,” who experienced a profound change after seeing “Vegucated”; and Duncan Strauss, host of “Talking Animals.”
* * *
CONTACT: Duncan Strauss (714) 321-2224 Duncan@wmnf.org
Lee “Flee” Courtney (813) 238-8001 x102 Flee@wmnf.org
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Sonia Plotnick Health Fund
Serving on the board of the Sonia Plotnick Health Fund is a great way to help other women in our community!

The Sonia Plotnick Health Fund periodically recruits board members as we like to keep our Board energized with new perspectives. The Board typically meets once per month for 2-3 hours to consider the business of the board and to review grant applications.

There are additional meetings held as needed to plan and execute our fund raising events. A background in business or the medical field is welcome, but not required. A sincere desire to help others is a must!

If you would like to join us at our August board meeting, please contact us by July 30!

Applicants will be sent a short questionaire to complete.
All applicants must have a background check completed (at the expense of the Fund) for eligibility and a one year minimum commitment is required.

SoniaPlotnickUpdates@Yahoo.com
subject: board member
Due to the confidential nature of medical information and the anonymity of applicants,SPHF board meetings are not open to the public.
SPHF is a 501c3 charity that awards grants for
women’s health care in the Greater Tampa Bay Area.
Submit your application for assistance or if would like to help the Fund help others by making a donation go to
We would love to fund 100% of your preventive healthcare!
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Conversations at the Dali
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THE SECOND ANNUAL JEFF NORTON AWARDS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 7/23/2012
PRESS CONTACT: Michael Murphy, Theatre Tampa Bay (813) 300-3585
RESERVATIONS: (727) 823-7529 or www.americanstage.org

Theatre Tampa Bay proudly announces
THE SECOND ANNUAL JEFF NORTON AWARDS

MONDAY AUGUST 20, 2012

The Jeff Norton Awards celebrate the best of professional theatrein Tampa Bay.

The second annual Jeff Norton Awards will be held August 20, 2012at the Palladium Theater in St. Petersburg. Awards will be presented toaudience favorites in the categories of Outstanding Actor, Actress, SupportingActor, Supporting Actress, Director, Lighting/Sound Designer, Costume Designer,and Set Designer.

The awards ceremony will begin at 8pm, with a pre-show mingle(with cash bar) from 7pm and an after-party and celebration (with cash bar,complimentary hors d’oeuvres and dancing) until 11pm.

Popular comedic actor Matt McGee will be the Master of Ceremoniesfor the event, and Karla Hartley directs. Additional entertainment – includingmusical numbers – will be provided by notable local artists.

Attendees are urged to “dress to impress” to have a chance ofwinning an award of their own: a prize for the Best Dressed Couple.

The Jeff Norton Awards are produced by Theatre Tampa Bay on behalfof the professional theatres in the Tampa Bay area. Theatre Tampa Bay is aprofessional theatre alliance whose purpose is to promote professional theatrein Tampa Bay.

Theatre Tampa Bay aims to deliver a fun-filled Jeff Norton Awardsevent that is the biggest theatre party in Tampa Bay.

~~~

Jeff Norton was a beloved member of the local theater community,and a portion of proceeds from the event will go to establish a grant in hisname.

The Palladium Theater at St. Petersburg College is a generous sponsor of the event.

~~~

WHEN
Monday, August 20, 2012
Awards ceremony at 8pm. (Pre-show mingle at 7pm and after-party till 11pm)

WHERE
Palladium Theater, 253 5th Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL33701

TICKETS
$25

RESERVATIONS
American Stage box office: (727) 823-7529 or www.americanstage.org

From the MC Film Fest Mail Bag….

Posted on by

Homeless Coalition of Hillsborough County
Homeless Coalition of Hillsborough County
July 13, 2012
Dear Mark & Carrie,

Your input is needed to help ensure homeless LGBTQI2-S people community priority moving forward.
I expect you will receive this invitation from several sources. It is very important! We need your input!

The Homeless Coalition of Hillsborough County, Inc. with support from the Corporation for Supportive Housing is in the process of finalizing the plan for how our entire community will address homelessness over the next 10 years. Using what we have learned from the public meetings held June 5th and 6th, national and local subject matter experts will be discussing recommendations that will form the framework of the strategic plan to prevent and end homelessness in Hillsborough County. This document determines community policy and spending when addressing the causes of and solutions to homelessness.

As many of you know, the LGBTQI2-S (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, Intersex and Two-Spirit) community is over-represented in the homeless population. Up to 46% of all homeless youth identify as LGBTQI2-S and one in five transgender people will require housing assistance in their lifetime. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently updated their nondiscrimination policies to include protections for sexual orientation and gender identity. However, many communities are not prepared to respond to this community in a culturally competent manner.

As we rewrite the 10 Year Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness it will be critical to include inclusive language to ensure that all people who need help are able to receive it without fear of discrimination.

Please review the attached schedule and mark your calendar for July 23rd, 24th, 26th and 30th. Each of the topic areas to be discussed is of vital importance to ensuring our community offers EVERYONE the same level of care. Your attendance will make a difference!

Please distribute this notice widely as we need to demonstrate there is a commitment in this community to ending homelessness, especially among our youth.
Thank you for continuing to be an advocate for homeless unaccompanied youth.
In service,
Jeremiah Kerr, LGBTQI2-S Homeless Youth Coordinator
AmeriCorps VISTA
Homeless Coalition of Hillsborough County
**********************************************
From: Sean.Mahabir@ci.tampa.fl.us
Sent: 7/11/2012 10:53:53 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time
Subj: Important Meetings That Affect You

Greetings,
Normally my messages are about safety and security concerns, however, my goal is to create community and teamwork. Most of you ask me on a daily basis…”who the heck came up with that idea?”…..lol…well, GET INVOLVED.
These are the upcoming YCDC meetings this month….these meetings affect YOUR business…it would be a good idea to participate or just come and listen. All these meetings are held at the YCDC Office
(2015 7th Ave….next to Elmers)
Retail Committee Meeting – Wednesday July 18th at 9am (discuss upcoming and past events, how the events affect your business, how you should plan etc.)
Public Safety/Parking Committee Meeting – Thursday July 19th at 3pm (discuss how to make Ybor City a safer place from all aspects, alcohol regulations, parking, club regulations etc)
Board Meeting – Tuesday July 24th at 4pm (ALL the board members of Ybor City…agenda items are voted on from the Retail, Public Safety, Marketing, Planning, Parking committees)
Tampa Police is in attendance at the meetings listed above….come hear the monthly crime statistics (Pubilc Safety/Board Meetings), and what trends, if any, are occurring in Ybor City.
Respectfully,


Officer Sean Mahabir
Ybor City Liaison
Tampa Police Department – District III
3808 N. 22nd Street
Tampa, FL. 33610
Main (813) 242-3800
Cell (813) 480-1272
Fax (813) 242-3848
Email sean.mahabir@tampagov.net

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2012 masthead
ADVANCE TICKET SALE
Hedda

Pre-show three-course prix fixe dinner & a free cocktail. Show your online ticket, 5 to 6:30 pm.

539 Central Avenue
Reservations call 727-823-6372
On the 30th anniversary of the release of “Mommie Dearest”, Hedda Lettuce, the beloved “Queen of Green,” is coming from New York to share her now-infamous talkback presentation of  “Mommie Dearest.”  You might think you already know this camp movie classic, but wait till you hear Hedda’s take on Joan Crawford, Faye Dunaway and “No wire hangers, ever!”

The audience is encouraged to talk back, too, shouting lines along with the characters and dressing up like Joan, Faye-as-Joan, or maybe even little Christina. Limited VIP tickets ($25) allow you to get up close with Lettuce after the show.  Online ticket $10 or $12@ the door.  In honor of the Queen of Green and the picky Ms. Crawford, please bring wire hangers to be recycled; if you do, you’ll get a free raffle ticket.  Showtime is 8 p.m.  This is a fundraiser for Friends of the Festival (TIGLFF) and is hosted by Todd Richardson.

Sponsors: C1 Bank; Frog Pond Restaurant; Hake Investments; Rearden Killion Communications; The UPS Store; GayStPete House, MityMo Design, Queens Head Restaurant & Bar Purchase tickets
July 18th – The Palladium – 8 p.m.
253 5th Ave. North – St. Petersburg
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Get Lucy the Slut off the Streets!

Find Princeton a Home!

m.a.d. Theatre of Tampa announces

Adopt-A-Puppet for Avenue Q

For an Adoption Fee of only $50 you will receive the following:

  • Early admission into the Shimberg Playhouse for seat selection for you and your party.
  • Meet and greet your adoptee and his/her handler.
  • Photo and Adoption Certificate.
  • Recognition at the performance.

Puppets available for adoption and their particular need or affliction:

Princeton (Commitment phobia)

Kate Monster (In need of a wax)

Rod (Log Cabin Republican)

Nicky (Hoarder)

Lucy (Lockjaw)

Trekkie (Internet porn addict)

Mrs. T. (Tinman syndrome)

Bad Idea Bears (Satan’s little helpers)

To adopt one of these puppets, click the link below to go to the adoption site. Please be aware that each puppet can only be adopted once for each performance, so adopt your puppet now.

Avenue Q Adopt-A-Puppet

Thank you for your support!
Directed by

Tony Gilkinson

Musical Direction by

Deborah D. Lynch


August 9-12 & 16-19

Thursday – Saturday 8:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday 2:00 pm

$20.00*
Buy Tickets

Shimberg Playhouse
David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

Warning: For Mature Audiences Only.

*Plus a Straz Center Service Charge

www.madtheatre.com • m.a.d. theatre on Facebook and Facebook groups •
• Follow us on twitter at @MAD_Theatre •

m.a.d theatre is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit community theatre that incorporates the three performing arts; Music, Acting, & Dance. For 12 years m.a.d theatre has delivered powerful, provocative, and affordable musical theatre to stages in the Tampa area. We are always looking for people who are interested in performing or volunteering, and for donors and corporate sponsors. m.a.d. theatre survives on your generosity! Contact us at Info@madtheatre.com for more information.

Donate to m.a.d. theatre

Shop Amazon and Support m.a.d. theatre using this link
*****************************************************************
2nd International Expo & Business LGBT 2012
Click Here to Register for this Event

English Translation Below

Press Center :: News

 

American Airlines y agrupación LGBT firman alianza turística, (QuintanaRoo al Dia), México

American Airlines establece alianza con LGBT confex, (TravelUpdate), Perú

American Airlines Boards LGBT Expo in Latin America, (Gay Market News), USA

Apoyará American Airlines evento internacional lésbico-gay en Cancún, (Terra), México

International Expo LGBT y American Airlines sellan alianza estratégica, (CaribbeanNewsDigital), Americas

American Airlines apoyará evento LGBT. Refrenda compromiso en derechos humanos, (NuestraVision), México

AMERICAN AIRLINES Y LGBT CONFEX ANUNCIAN ALIANZA

 

CANCÚN, México – 16 de julio de 2012 (OUTNOW) – La International Expo & Business LGBT Cancún 2012, el evento líder de marketing dirigido al vibrante mercado LGBT (lesbianas, gays, bisexuales y transgénero) ha anunciado hoy una alianza estratégica con American Airlines, líder en América Latina y en marketing de diversidad.

“Nos complace mucho anunciar esta alianza,” dijo Rubén Sandoval, Principal Oficial Ejecutivo de LGBT Confex, la compañía líder en organización de eventos y conferencias LGBT en la región. “American Airlines es un líder global en el compromiso con la diversidad y la inclusión, tanto para con sus empleados, como con sus clientes. En LGBT Confex, nos dedicamos a organizar las mejores conferencias y exposiciones para el mercado LGBT y nos sentimos honrados de que American Airlines haya decidido apoyar nuestro próximo evento de Septiembre en Cancún.”

La International Expo & Business LGBT 2012 se llevará a cabo en Cancún del 6 al 9 de septiembre. Entre los patrocinadores confirmados se encuentran la Oficina de Convenciones y Visitantes de Cancún, el Hard Rock Hotel Cancún, Out Now Global, American Airlines y la IGLTA.

“Estamos encantados de apoyar a LGBT Confex y de sumarnos a este encuentro tan especial en Cancún,” dijo Derek DeCross, Vice Presidente de Ventas Globales de American Airlines.  “American Airlines es pionera en servir a la comunidad LGBT global. Al celebrar 70 años de servicio en México y como líderes en la industria en América Latina, qué mejor momento para enfatizar nuestra dedicación a todos los segmentos diversos del mercado de la región. Qué mejor manera de expresar nuestro orgullo este año que participando en el LGBT Confex en México.”

“Agradecemos mucho el apoyo de American Airlines para nuestro evento de este año,” dijo Sandoval.

Esta segunda edición de la International Expo & Business LGBT Cancún 2012 apoyará a Vida Maya, Congresos con Causa A.C, una asociación sin fines de lucro creada por el Centro de Convenciones y Visitantes de Cancún, sus empleados, sus socios y proveedores, con la idea de contribuir a mejorar la calidad de vida de las comunidades mayas locales, enfocándose principalmente en las áreas de salud, educación y empleo.

En Estados Unidos, American Airlines es la primera y única aerolínea en obtener un puntaje perfecto de 100 cada año en el prestigioso Corporate Equality Index (Índice de Igualdad Corporativa).  Este índice fue creado en 2002 por la Human Rights Campaign (Campaña de los Derechos Humanos) (www.hrc.org) para fungir como punto de referencia entre las corporaciones conocidas por sus políticas amigables y sin prejuicios para la comunidad gay.  Para más información del nivel de compromiso con la inclusión LGBT y la diversidad de American Airlines, visite www.AA.com/Diversity.  Para unirse a la comunidad de conversaciones LGBT de American Airlines en Facebook visit https://www.facebook.com/AARainbowTeam.  Los miembros AAdvantage® LGBT pueden también actualizar su información de perfil para indicar su preferencia en viajes LGBT y poder recibir promociones especiales.

Acerca de LGBT Confex

 

La compañía líder en conferencias y exposiciones LGBT de América Latina es LGBT Confex. Fundada en 2011, esta organización ha demostrado una gran capacidad para conjuntar a un gran y profesional equipo con muchos años de experiencia en la organización de eventos. Después del éxito de la International Expo & Business LGBT 2011, LGBT Confex inmediatamente se avocó a sentar las bases para un evento aún mayor en Cancún para este 2012. Y también se ha arrancado ya con la preparación de dos eventos más para 2013 – otro en México y uno más en otro lugar de América Latina.

Sobre American Airlines

American Airlines, American Eagle y la aerolínea AmericanConnection® sirven 260 aeropuertos en más de 50 países y territorios con un promedio de más de 3,500 vuelos diarios.  La flota de la red combinada de American Airlines cuenta con más de 900 aviones.  El premiado portal de American Airlines: AA.com®, provee a sus usuarios un fácil acceso para conferir y hacer reservaciones, además de noticias personalizadas, información y ofertas de viajes. American Airlines es uno de los socios fundadores de la alianza oneworld®, que reúne algunas de las mejores y más grandes aerolíneas, permitiéndoles ofrecer a sus clientes más servicios y beneficios que cualquier aerolínea podría ofrecer individualmente. En conjunto, los miembros de la alianza y sus miembros en proceso, sirven más de 900 destinos con más de 9,000 vuelos diarios a 150 países y territorios. American Airlines, Inc. y American Eagle, Inc.  son subsidiarias de AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, y AAdvantage son marcas registradas de American Airlines, Inc. Las acciones comunes de AMR Corporation se intercambian bajo el símbolo “AAMRQ” en el mercado de la OTCQB, operado por el OTC Markets Group.

###

 

 

AMERICAN AIRLINES AND LGBT CONFEX ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP

 

CANCUN, Mexico – July 16, 2012 (OUTNOW) – International Expo & Business LGBT Cancun 2012, the leading marketing event that targets the vibrant lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) market today announced a strategic partnership with American Airlines®, a leader in Latin America and diversity marketing.

“We are pleased to announce this partnership,” said Ruben Sandoval, CEO of LGBT Confex, the region’s leading LGBT events and conference organizer. “American Airlines is a global leader for its longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion for both its people and customers. At LGBT Confex we are in the business of producing the region’s best conferences and exhibitions designed to serve the LGBT market. We are honored that American Airlines has chosen to support our forthcoming event in Cancun this September.”

The 2012 International Expo & Business LGBT takes place in Cancun Sept. 6 through 9. Confirmed sponsors include the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Cancun, Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, Out Now Global, American Airlines & IGLTA.

“We are delighted to support LGBT Confex and to join in this special Cancun gathering,” said Derek DeCross, American’s Vice President – Global Sales.  “American Airlines has been a pioneer in serving the global LGBT community. As we celebrate 70 years of service to Mexico and as an industry leader across Latin America, this is a timely way for us to emphasize our dedication to all of the diverse market segments in the region. What better way to express our pride this year than by taking part in the LGBT Confex in Mexico.”

“We are grateful to American Airlines for their support for our upcoming event,” said Sandoval.

The second edition of the International Expo & Business LGBT Cancun 2012 will support Vida Maya, Congresos con Causa A.C, a nonprofit association created by Cancun Center, Conventions & Exhibitions, its employees, partners and suppliers to benefit and contribute to the quality of life of the local Mayan communities, with particular focus on health, education and employment.

In the United States, American Airlines is the first and only airline to earn a perfect 100 percent score every year on the prestigious Corporate Equality Index. The Index was created in 2002 by the Human Rights Campaign (www.hrc.org) to serve as a benchmark for corporate leaders known for their gay-friendly and fair-minded policies. For more background on American’s commitment to LGBT inclusion and diversity, visit www.AA.com/Diversity. To join American’s LGBT Facebook community conversation, visit https://www.facebook.com/AARainbowTeam.  LGBT AAdvantage® members may also update profile information to indicate an interest in LGBT travel and receive special offers.

About LGBT Confex

Latin America’s leading LGBT conferences and Exhibitions Company is LGBT Confex. Established in 2011, the organization quickly demonstrated its capabilities to put together a professional team with staff who bring many years in event management expertise. Following the successful event 2011 International Expo & Business LGBT, LGBT Confex immediately set about arranging the groundwork for this year’s even bigger event in Cancun. Plans have commenced for two events by the organization in 2013 – another in Mexico and one elsewhere in the Latin America region.

About American Airlines

American Airlines, American Eagle® and the AmericanConnection® carrier serve 260 airports in more than 50 countries and territories with, on average, more than 3,500 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 900 aircraft. American’s award-winning website, AA.com®, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members and members-elect serve more than 900 destinations with more than 9,000 daily flights to 150 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, and AAdvantage are trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. AMR Corporation common stock trades under the symbol “AAMRQ” on the OTCQB marketplace, operated by OTC Markets Group.

###

From the MC Film Fest Mail Bag….

Posted on by
Barney Frank weds Boyfriend, Jim Ready
    Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., married Jim Ready on Saturday in a ceremony attended by about 300 friends and family members, becoming the first married, openly gay member of Congress in U.S. history. Frank, who will leave Congress after this year, said he wanted to marry while he was still in office in order to set an example. “The kids that are going to see us, and feel strong enough to be able to come out and be who they are. That gives me more encouragement that I’m doing the right thing,” Frank said.

 ********

Community College Ybor Art Gallery presents

 

PIXELS

 

A FACULTY/STUDENT EXHIBIT

Photoshop-based Artwork

 

July 5-26, 2012

 

Opening Reception, Tuesday, July 10   5:30-7:30pm

 

 

Francy Arguella, Swimming in the Darkness, Digital Inkjet Print

ART2600C Introduction to Digital Art

 

Performing Arts Building, First Floor, Palm Ave and 15th Street 

 813.253.7674

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Grants in Ybor City
Subj: July Committee Meeting & Special Events Grant

Greetings All-
Just a reminder that the next Retail, Arts and Special Events Committee meeting is Wednesday, July 18, 2012 from 9am-10:30am.  Our attendance last month was low so please make every effort to attend.
Also, the FY13 YCDC Special Events Co-Sponsorship Grant (attached application) has been announced via FLASH and La Gaceta with a deadline of Monday, July 30, 2012 at 5:00 pm.
Have a Safe Holiday and see you on the 18th!
Brenda
Brenda W. Thrower
Ybor City Development Corporation
Economic & Urban Development Department
City of Tampa
2015 East 7th Avenue
Tampa,  FL  33605
*******************************************
SAVE 10%
or More
A special offer just for you!
Save $50
Save $15
Discounts
on
2012 Passes
Dear Friend of the Festival,

 

The 2012 festival is a few months away, but if you act now you can take advantage of exclusive early-bird discounts on festival passes. We’re still in the process of choosing this season’s films (and the picking look better then past years); since we are essentially the last of the year’s major LGBT filmfests, we can gauge the audience reaction to films in other festivals and pick the best. We’ll also have some of our regular attendees picking this year’s shorts.
The Simply Fabulous pass includes the Crown Circle pass benefits plus access to the green room (beverages), reserved seating, free festival closing night party, 12 months’ admission to all monthly film series screenings and, NEW THIS YEAR, a reserved parking space near the Tampa Theatre with your name on the meter.  Only 12 Simply Fabulous Passes are still available this year. More information and purchase coupon
The Crown Circle pass includes admission to all 30+ films at this year’s festival (in Tampa & St. Pete), early entry, and complimentary beverage for every film at Tampa Theatre. More details and purchase coupon

813 / 274-7917

 ######
60th Anniversary of Classic… “Singin’ in the Rain”
Who doesn’t like a classic musical. And what if that classic will be on the big screen for a more genuine feel of the great classic musical comedy motion picture. The classic musical named as the “Best American Movie Musical “ever, “Singin in the Rain” with Gene Kelly, Donald O’Conner and Debbie Reynolds is returning big screen for a day. TCM have put out for theatre release old restored classics and have put them on the big screen at select theatres across the country. In Tampa the Hyde Park Cinebistro in Old Hyde Park Village and AMC Regency 20 in Brandon with 2 shows at 2:00 and 7:00pm, this Thursday only.

The Rainbow Table

Posted on by
The Rainbow Table by Mark & Carrie
    A friend once asked us, “What advice do you wish an older Gay person would given you when you were young?” This got us a thinking.  Here is something we would like to share.
    When you become a couple it is not about you & me anymore. It becomes about “us” or “n”  as in Mark n Carrie. We are not saying that you should loose your identity but that a third person is created “us/n”.  Life is much easier and a lot more fun if you let “us/n” do the cooking. Here is what we did. Over the years we cook back and forth for each other. Sometimes cooking old family traditions and other times new things. When we both agreed that the recipe was GREAT we would write it down in our “Best Dish” journal. All theses recipes then received the “us/n” stamp of approval.  Some times we would also write a note about the recipe too.  What fun to come home not knowing what to cook and to just pick up this book. Then to find ourselves saying, “That sounds good, we haven’t had that for a long time!” or “Remember that crazy party when…?”
    For many years we have wanted to write a cookbook for our nieces & nephews. With “Dishing with Mark and Carrie” we now have 10′s of 1,000′s of nieces and nephews across the world. Suddenly a light bulb went off. Since we already have our web site  www.mcfilm.co  why not write it on the site. Now we can share the progress weekly.  To be quite honest… by writing one or two recipes a week we actually might get the book written!!! LOL LOL  We invite you to join us on this journey of creating our book “The Rainbow Table.”
Where did the title “Rainbow Table” come from?
    We were at a auction with our good friend Marie Hall, a neighbor and good ol Southern Charm Mom.  A new classic Florida antique white pedestal dining room table with 6 matching chairs came up for sale. While Carrie was out getting Marie & Mark our beer soaked hot dogs, Mark bought the table. When Carrie came back with the hot dogs Marie leaned over a with a smile  laughing said, “How do you like that table Carrie? Mark just bought it!” Carrie was not amused but we took it home that night.
     The next day when Carrie came home around 5pm Mark was in the back yard with the chair seats removed and was busy spray painting the chairs. Carrie yelled, “What are you doing?!?!?”  Mark said, “You really didn’t think I like antique white chairs, did you?? 6 chairs 6 colors in the Gay Rainbow flag, it’s a natural.”  We both laughed and the chairs have been a big conversation piece ever since.

From the MC Film Fest Mail Bag….

Posted on by

A N N O U N C E M E N T

The City of Tampa Hosts Two Public
Information Workshops regarding Proposed City-wide Regulations for Nitghtclubs

On Tuesday, June 26 and Wednesday, June 27, 2012 beginning at 6:00 p.m., the City will be hosting two
Public Workshops to discuss the proposed business regulations for “nightclubs” City-wide with the general public and stakeholders.

Meeting Location: City Council Chambers, Old City Hall, 315 E. Kennedy Blvd. 3rd Floor

Meeting Dates & Time: June 26 & 27, 2012 from

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm**

** Please note that the meeting will end when the presentation and discussion ends or promptly at 8:00 pm, whichever comes first. It is anticipated that the same information will be presented on each meeting date.

For more information, please contact the City of Tampa

Planning Division at 813-274-3100.

UNA VOCE Saturday Pride Breakfast

StageWorks! Opening Night!! “Sylvia”!

Please join us as our guests for the opening night pre-show reception, performance and cast party
of the romantic comedy “Sylvia” !
If you love dogs… you’ll love this show !
Sylvia
by A. R. Gurney

(Enter your dog in “Sylvia’s Cutest Dog Contest: Stageworks Facebook page!)

Friday June 29th, 7:30pm Pre-Show Wine and Cheese and 8pm curtain!
Stageworks Theatre in The Channel District!
The show runs through July 15th if you are not free this night.
A romantic comedy about a dog and the couple who adopts her. “Sylvia” is a hilarious commentary on mid-life angst, and the role pets play in our lives. When middle-aged, Greg brings stray dog “Sylvia” back to the empty nest he shares with his wife, a romantic triangle ensues! Sylvia is a beautiful, frisky young blonde and yes, she talks, sings Cole Porter and quotes Shakespeare! (Sarah Jessica Parker created the role on Broadway!) For dog lovers this is a must! Bring a photo of YOUR dog to put on our “Sylvia’s friends” wall in the lobby!

From the MC Film Fest Mail Bag 6-12-2012 ….

Posted on by

This Week with St. Pete Pride

For a full calendar of events, visit www.stpetepride.com
Thursday, June 14
ProSuzy Grrrls Mingle for Professional 40+
6 p.m., A Taste For Wine
241 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg
Join the 40+ crew for this second Grrrls Mingle of the season as they welcome in St. Pete Pride at this beautiful venue to meet and greet new women in town and have a drink and some appetizers to start off the night.

Friday, June 15
Big Gay Art Show Reception
6 p.m., Metro Wellness & Community Center
3251 3rd Avenue North, St. Petersburg
Presented by Suntan Art Center, local LGBT and allied artists will participate in this month-long exhibition. Come meet the artists at our opening reception featuring live entertainment by the UV Rays, food from Ricky P’s, Meze 119, Hamburger Mary’s and Spaghetti Warehouse, wine from Barefoot Wines and more. Proceeds will be split between St. Pete Pride, Metro Wellness & Community Center and Suntan Art Center, a volunteer non-profit organization offering classes, exhibits and networking for the local arts community. The show will be on display throughout the month of June.

Saturday, June 16
LGBT Leadership Training
9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., Metro Wellness & Community Center
3251 3rd Avenue North, St. Petersburg
Metro Wellness & Community Center and St. Pete Pride will present a special LGBT Leadership Training Conference. Terry Stone from CenterLink, the Community of LGBT Centers, will present topics that help non-profit boards create successful planning for the future. $25 registration includes lunch and snacks. ($20 for 2 or more from the same organization). For more information and to register, call 727-321-3854, ext. 245 or email LGBT@MetroTampaBay.org.

Saturday, June 16
The Dalí Celebrates Pride with Little Ashes: A Film Screening
3 p.m., Dalí Museum
One Dalí Boulevard, St. Petersburg
A fictionalized account of Dalí’s early life, Little Ashes is a contemporary story about universal themes such as love and relationships, longing, loss and betrayal. The three main characters are important Spanish figures—Salvador Dalí, poet Federico Garcia Lorca and filmmaker Luis Bunuel—who met as students at the Academy of Fine Arts in Madrid. Dalí, Lorca and Bunuel defied their society’s politics and forged new ground during a time when being an artist was revolutionary—and being a gay or bisexual artist was dangerous. Together, these distinct personalities learn from each other and develop a complex new language about the nature of art. The event is free, but space is limited and based on first come, first served. For more information contact: CGuidry@TheDali.org or CKamen@TheDali.org

Saturday, June 16
Pride Night at the Rays
7:10 p.m., Tropicana Field
One Tropicana Drive, St. Petersburg
The Tampa Bay Rays take on the Miami Marlins, but not before Una Voce: The Florida Men’s Chorale sings the National Anthem. General tickets are $20 and a portion of the proceeds benefit St. Pete Pride. VIP Tickets sponsored by GayStPete House and Your Neighborhood Reality range from $50 to $95, including unlimited draft beer for 2 hours and food buffet. 100% of the proceeds benefit St. Pete Pride. Limited space available for VIP Option. For more information and to purchase tickets visit StPetePride.com. Tickets also available in the Sports Bar inside Georgie’s Alibi.

Saturday, June 16
2nd Annual Red Ribbon Dance
8:00 p.m., NOVA 535
535 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street N., St. Petersburg
This year, ASAP (AIDS Service Association of Pinellas) takes you back to the ‘70s again for a “Boogie Nights” Dance Party and Celebration. The event raises money for ASAP, a Suncoast Hospice affiliate. Tickets are $50 with two free drinks and complimentary valet parking, or $100 VIP tickets with complimentary bar & menu. Tickets are available at ASAPServices.org.

Sunday, June 17
Trans*Action presents Mister St. Pete Pride
4 p.m., Flamingo Resort
4601 34th Street South, St. Petersburg
Come cheer on your favorite area male impersonators as they compete for the title of Mister St. Pete Pride 2012 poolside at Flamingo Resort. The pageant, hosted by Faith Michaels and Meagan Towers, will feature several categories, including Creative Pride Presentation, Talent and Evening Wear. The winning king will receive a cash prize, a spot on the main stage at the St. Pete Pride Festival on June 30 and honorary crown and sash. Sponsored by FindADragShow.com, 6S Boutique and Sacino’s. For more information or if you’d like to compete, email Pageants@ StPetePride.com.

Trans*Action presents Miss St. Pete Pride
8 p.m., Flamingo Resort
4601 34th Street South, St. Petersburg
Stick around the Flamingo Resort to see some of the best area female impersonators as they compete for the title of Miss St. Pete Pride 2012 inside the Flamingo’s main bar. The pageant, hosted by Faith Michaels and Meagan Towers, will feature several categories, including Creative Pride Presentation, Talent and Evening Gown. The winning queen will receive a cash prize, a spot on the main stage at the St. Pete Pride Festival on June 30 and honorary crown and sash. Sponsored by FindADragShow.com, 6S Boutique and Sacino’s. For more information or if you’d like to compete, email Pageants@ StPetePride.com.

The St. Pete Pride Office is open from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday
Purchase your tickets here. Pick up your 2012 St. Pete Pride T-shirt and other cool merchandise!!
Visit us at the Metro Wellness & Community Center
3251 3rd Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL

****************************************

Metro LGBT Leadership Seminar

 

Dear Colleagues,

 

On Saturday Metro Wellness & Community Centers is proud to present our first in a series of LGBT leadership education. This Saturday we’ll begin with the foundation for a healthy organization the “Board of Directors and the Executive”. The roles of each and the relationship between the two are fundamental and imperative for successful results within an organization.

 

We have brought in an expert Terry Stone of Centerlink ( association of LGBT community Centers) who has worked with almost every center ion this very subject. Along with this seminar you will have a chance to network with your colleagues .

A light lunch will be provided . The cost is only $ 25.00 Call today to reserve a seat.

 

I look forward to seeing this Saturday

.

Lorraine Langlois

CEO

Metro Wellness & Community Centers

 

 

June 5, 2012
Contact: Greg Stemm, 727-542-6958; Gstemm@aol.com
ST. PETE QUAKERS TO PRESENT “THE WIZARD OF OZ MEETS ROCKY HORROR” IN TRIBUTE TO ST. PETE PRIDE MONTH
(St.Petersburg) — If you’ve ever been to Rocky Horror you know most of the campy fun of seeing it is the audience participation through call backs and use of props like rice, a squirt gun, toast, etc. The St. Pete Quakers have taken the concept to a whole new level as they present the Wizard of Oz as a funny, campy evening of alcohol free fun in tribute to St. Pete Pride. Participants will be encouraged to shout out funny call backs to the film much like is the tradition with Rocky Horror.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, June 23 at 7 p.m. at the Quaker Meeting House, 190 19th Avenue Southeast and is free and open to the public.
Those attending are encouraged to wear costumes and be prepared to sing along to songs like Somewhere Over the Rainbow and Follow the Yellow Brick Road and give funny outlandish comments back to the film as it’s playing.
‘When you get to the Meeting House just “follow the yellow brick road” to the door, but don’t forget your ruby slippers…you’ll need them to get back home!” said Judy Nelson, co-clerk of the Peace and Community Concerns Committee of the Quakers who are producing the event.
“There are two sides to Pride,” said Greg Stemm, co-clerk of Peace and Community Concerns and clerk of the Quaker’s LGBT Issues Committee. “There is a serious side and a fun side. Last year we celebrated the serious side by screening ‘Milk’, but this year we want to do something really fun. This has been a great year for members of the LGBT community and there is much to celebrate. This gives people a chance to have a great fun evening that is also alcohol and drug free. And you don’t have to be gay to enjoy it!”
The St. Petersburg Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) has been a long standing and outspoken advocate of LGBT rights. The Meeting has been marrying same sex couples since the 1970s and have marched in the St. Pete Pride Promenade and had a booth at the Street Festival every year since the event’s inception. Quakers have a 400 year history of supporting issues surrounding equality, having been the first mainstream congregation in America to oppose slavery decades before the Civil War.
************

 

 
Directed by

Tony Gilkinson

Musical Direction by

Deborah D. Lynch


Tickets Now On Sale!

August 9-12 & 16-19

Thursday – Saturday 8:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday 2:00 pm

Buy Tickets

Shimberg Playhouse
David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

Warning: For Mature Audiences Only.

www.madtheatre.com • m.a.d. theatre on Facebook and Facebook groups •
• Follow us on twitter at @MAD_Theatre •

m.a.d theatre is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit community theatre that incorporates the three performing arts; Music, Acting, & Dance. For 12 years m.a.d theatre has delivered powerful, provocative, and affordable musical theatre to stages in the Tampa area. We are always looking for people who are interested in performing or volunteering, and for donors and corporate sponsors. m.a.d. theatre survives on your generosity! Contact us at Info@madtheatre.com for more information.

Donate to m.a.d. theatre

Shop Amazon and Support m.a.d. theatre using this link

**********************************

 

Sunsational Summer Shows
Florida Festivals and Events
Gulfport, FL: Aqua Mania Festival ~ June 23, 2012
Inaugural Water Themed Event

Event:InauguralLocation: Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707

Date & Time: June 23 ~ 10am-8pm

Description: Come kick off the summer and chill out on Boca Ciega Bay. The Aqua-Mania Festival will feature a water themed summer celebration on Gulfport Beach including live entertainment, water rides, games and contests. The event will feature various themed merchandise, artists & crafters, food and beverage vendors, along with an abundance of family friendly activities. This interactive day of events is not to be missed.

10-12: Live music TBA: and Water Balloon Toss

12-2: Live music TBA: Kayak Race and Bartender Beach Race

2-4: Live music TBA: Paddle Board Race and Corn Hole Tournament

4-6: Live music TBA: Recycle Regatta

6-8: The Urban Gypsies (Live music)

All day long the Dunk Tank will feature local ‘celebrities’.

Cost: No charge for Admission or Parking

Contact: Lori Rosso at 727-687-0426 or rsvp@seabreezemanor.com

Website: http://gulfportareachamberofcommerce.org/aquamania

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AquaManiaFestival

Vendor & Sponsor Information >
Gulfport, FL: July 4th Celebration ~ 5500 Shore Blvd. S.
Fantastic Fireworks and Community Parade

Vendor Information >
Punta Gorda, FL: Fishermen’s Village Pirate Fest ~ July 27-29, 2012
by POTTC

Event:4th AnnualLocation: 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950

Date & Time: July 27-29 ~ Friday 12-6pm & 7-11pm, Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 10am-6pm

Description: This adventurous weekend is loaded with bountiful booty and extraordinary treasures that can be seen and purchased while you wander through more than a quarter mile of shaded corridors and breezeways at this amazing covered venue. Outside, there’s plenty to see and do as well. From one end of the village, to the other, visitors can watch the pirate boat parade, hear cannons thunder, visit a pirate encampment, browse the vendors, grab a cold beer, see Blackbeard’s Pirate Ship and even meet a live mermaid. A variety of events including a Pirate’s Ball, sea battle and boat parade, a family treasure hunt, adult and children’s costume contests, various themed merchandise, artists & crafters, food and beverage vendors, along with an abundance of pirate performers.

Cost: Suggested donation “a-buck-an-ear” ($2)

Contact: Kathy Gilbert, 561- 792-9260 or piratefestinfo@gmail.com

Website: http://www.fishermensvillagepiratefest.com/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/FishermensVillagePirateFest

Vendor & Sponsor Information >
Gulfport, FL: Gecko Ball ~ August 25, 2012
Auctions of the artist-created geckos have raised over $6000 in the past two years

This Year’s Theme:“Hooray for Geckowood”Location: Peninsula Inn, 2937 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707

Date & Time: August 25th ~ 7-11 PM

Description: Welcome to our 4th annual soiree leading up to the Gecko Fest street festival one week later. Our theme this year – “Hooray for Geckowood” – evokes the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood. Costumes encouraged (not required). Glam it up for the red carpet in lush evening wear; or dress as your favorite movie star or movie character. Cocktail hour appetizers, full dinner buffet, cash bar and cocktail specials, live music by Kevin Wilder and his band, dancing, silent auctions, live auctions of artist-created geckos, costume contest, over the top decor, frivolity galore – all the fabulous things you’ve come to expect from the annual Gecko Ball. As always, a portion of funds raised will benefit a local cause. Funds from last year’s Gecko Ball and Gecko Fest paid for the creation and installation of 2 public art pieces on Beach Blvd.

Cost: $25.00

Contact: Jon Ziegler at 727-254-9587 or jonkziegler@yahoo.com

Website: http://geckofest.com/

Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/373967305995010/
Gulfport, FL: Gecko Fest ~ September 1, 2012
Art Work by Jo Silverleaf

Event:11th AnnualLocation: 3129 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707

Date & Time: September 1 ~ 10am-10pm

Description: This whimsical send off to summer is like Mardi Gras meets the Renaissance, and brings together strolling street performers, main stage performers, performing artists and vendors with all types of weird and wonderful wares up and down Beach Blvd. Audience participation, especially parade (6pm… join in anywhere on the route!) Adult & children’s costume contests and a hat contest at end of parade. Live entertainment will be provided on two main stages from noon till 10 pm, with a street dance at 8:00 pm. Bring your dancing shoes!

Cost: No fee for Admission or Parking

Contact: Suzanne King, 727-322-5217 or SuzFest@gmail.com

Website: http://geckofest.com/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Geckofest

Vendor & Sponsor Information >
Gulfport, FL: Tangerine Blues Fest ~ September 25, 2012
Benefitting All Children’s Hospital

Event:5th AnnualLocation: 4900 Tangerine Ave S. (Tangerine Greenway), Gulfport, FL 33707

Date & Time: September 29 ~ 4-10pm (gates open at 3:00) Description: The Tangerine Blues Fest has grown in popularity, starting with an attendance of 500 in 2008, ballooning to an estimated 5,000 last year. This year’s line-up of Blues bands will include headliner Sean Chambers, No Money Down and Betty Fox. Along with great music, there will be food truck vendors, beverages, beer and wine and a family fun area for the kids. The Blues Fest is a community event to raise awareness about the 49th Street South corridor and is a sanctioned fundraising event for All Children’s Hospital.

Cost: No Fee for Admission or Parking

Website: http://tangerinebluesfest.com/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TangerineBluesFest

Contact: Rick Smith at 727-409-1269 or tangerinebluesfest@gmail.com

Vendor & Sponsor Information >
Gulfport, FL: Art Walk
Gulfport T’s by Leslie Gilchrist & Karen Gates

Event: 1st Friday & 3rd Saturday ~ Year RoundLocation: 3129 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707

Date & Time: 6-10pm – June 16, July 6 & 21, August 3 & 18, September 7 & 15, October 5 & 20, November 2 & 17 and December 7 & 15

Description: Observe and purchase from talented independent artists and crafters at work all along Beach & Shore Boulevards, as well as the works of local authors and entertainers stretched over a half-mile up and down scenic Beach Boulevard. Live musicians appear at venues throughout the Village. View the stars through St. Pete Astronomy Club’s state of the art telescopes, weather permitting, every first Friday. While browsing the art and craft booths, don’t miss Gulfport’s unique shops, boutiques and galleries. Enjoy dinner at one of over a dozen fine restaurants within the Art District, now one of the foremost dining destinations in the Bay Area and one of six small-town finalists from across the country in the 2011 Rand McNally/USA Today “Best of the Road” competition in the “Best Food” category.

Special Summer Entertainment Line-up:

June 16th: Buskin Trio with Stone & Friends, Motown with Magic

July 6th: Chicago Rich & Teri, Caribbean Cowboys, Cellfish

July 21st: Canadian Mike, Motown with Magic

August 3rd: Chicago Rich & Teri, Caribbean Cowboys, Motown with Magic

August 18th: One Lone Something, Delta 88

September 7th: Caribbean Cowboys

September 15th: Da Buskers, Delta 88, Motown with Magic

Cost: No Fee for Admission or Parking

Website: http://gulfportma.com/gma-events/art-walks

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/GulfportArtWalk

Contact: Suzanne King, 727-322-5217 or SuzFest@gmail.com

Vendor & Sponsor Information >
Gulfport, FL: Tuesday Fresh Market
Get Fresh Every Tuesday!

Event: Every Tuesday ~ Year RoundLocation: 3007 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707

Time: 9am – 2pm (Summer Hours)

Description: The Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market is an open-air market held in Gulfport’s Waterfront District on Beach Blvd. Vendors offer a variety of produce, including but not limited to, local, organic and hydroponic fruits and vegetables. Vendors also offer local honey, teas, herbs, seafood, Florida grass-fed beef, cheese, fresh breads, pastries, nuts and granola, gourmet, vegetarian/vegan and ethnic foods, candy, garden plants, fresh flowers, bath and body products and much more. Many other unique items, including a variety of local arts and crafts are available from over 50 vendors. Live music is featured during each market.

A free clothing swap to benefit CASA is regularly scheduled on the second Tuesday of each month. The swap takes place in the courtyard adjacent to the historic Peninsula Inn at 2937 Beach Blvd. South. Participants are invited to bring up to 5 gently used garments to exchange for vouchers that may be used to select clothing brought in by other participants. Items may be for women, men or children. Gently used shoes and wardrobe accessories are also accepted. Please provide hangers for all garments to be used in the swap. Swap vouchers may also be purchased for $3 each. Donations of clothing above the 5-garment limit are encouraged and accepted. All additional donations should be contained in bags or boxes. All cash proceeds, donated clothing, and non-selected garments at the end of the swap will be donated to Community Action Stops Abuse (CASA). CASA is a local non-profit organization providing services to survivors of abuse or violence.

Cost: No Fee for Admission or Parking

Website: http://gulfportma.com/gma-events/tuesday-fresh-market

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/gulfportfreshmarket

Contact: Daniel Hodge, Fresh Market Coordinator, at 727-366-4086 or dan@igc.org

Vendor & Sponsor Information >

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From the MC Film Mail Bag 6-06-2012

Posted on by
 

Iconic Actress/ Singer Judy Garland 90th Birthday 
    A child performer and singer who turned Hollywood’s loving starlet, icon actress, singer and crusader, Judy Garland’s 90th Birthday. Born June 10,1922 in Minnesota and was named after  both parents, Frances Ethel Gumm. She was a part of the family vaudeville act, The Gumm Sisters in the late 1920’s. Suggesting the act change its name to Garland Sisters in 1934 World’s Fair. Frances Ethel adopted the name Judy. Thus now she will be and forever known as Judy Garland! The family relocated to California 1929.
    Of course she auditioned for many movies at MGM Studios. It was “The Wizard of Oz” in 1939 where she became America’s sweetheart and played Kansas country girl, Dorothy Gale who left the real world to a world of make believe.  Of course the Oscar winning song that everyone sings along to, “Over the Rainbow” became synonymous with Judy Garland. Many other acclaimed Judy Garland films included, “The Harvey Girls”, “Easter Parade” and “A Star is Born.”
    Judy did live radio, live theater,numerous movies and had her own 1963 TV show for 2 years on CBS, “The Judy Garland Show.”  The big secret of her life was the demons that seem to run and ruin her life. Pain pills, alcohol, finances, health issues and her many failed marriages.
     One thing people loved about the persistent spitfire singing entertainer was her beautiful voice, personal charm and cheerfulness.
    Judy didn’t know it but her death was a major reason for the Gay Stonewall Riots in New York City in 1969!
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Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project

Phone:  941-758-6399

Contact:  Garry Allan Breul

garallan@msn.com

 

For Immediate Release, Please

 

Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project

Presents:

 

PRELUDE TO PRIDE:  A WIZARD OF OZ

 

Starring MATT MCGEE, JOEY PANEK, BETTY JANE PARKS, DREW DECARO and more!

Special Guest: Musical Accompanist MICHAEL RABBE

Script adaptation by T.SCOTT WOOTEN

 

Benefitting Metro Charities and ASAP HIV/AIDS programs

 

Monday, June 25, 7:30pm & Monday, July 2, 7:30pm

 

American Stage Theatre, 163 3rd St. North, downtown St. Petersburg

 

Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project is celebrating its 10-Year Anniversary!  Their annual “Prelude to Pride” salute will be an original production of the time honored classic, “A WIZARD OF OZ”.  Adapted by T. Scott Wooten, this hilarious and madcap send-up of the fabled classic by Frank L. Baum is just in time for St. Petersburg Pride Celebration.  Come join in the fun as Dorothy and her Friends follow the yellow brick road to an Emerald City we’ve never seen before!

 

PRELUDE TO PRIDE: A WIZARD OF OZ stars Matt McGee, as The WICKED WITCH OF THE WEST; Joey Panek as TIN MAN; Betty Jane Parks as DOROTHY; Drew Decaro as COWARDLY LION; Joel Gennari as Scarecrow; Sara DelBeato as GLINDA THE GOOD WITCH; Joe Parra as the WIZARD; Meliss Kenworthy as AUNTIE EM; Katie Castonquay as THE MUNCHKINS; and Scott Daniel as UNCLE HENRY.  Michael Raabe will be making a special appearance at the keyboard.

 

These two performances will benefit PWA (People with AIDS) programs at Metropolitan Charities of Pinellas and AIDS Service Association of Pinellas, Inc.  Admission is Pay-What-You-Will and all performers are donating their time and talents.

 

Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization whose mission is to raise awareness, provide assistance, and perpetuate a life of dignity for those affected and infected by HIV and AIDS.

 

PRELUDE TO PRIDE: A WIZARD OF OZ will perform: Monday, June 25th and Monday, July 2nd, 2012 at American Stage Theatre, 163 3rd St. N. St. Petersburg.  Doors open at 7:00pm, curtain time is 7:30pm.  Cash bar will be available.  For further information contact American Stage at 727-823-PLAY or www.americanstage.org. 

 

To learn more about The Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project contact Garry Allan Breul, Artistic Director at 941/758-6399 or garallan@msn.com.

 

# # #

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Press Release Metro Wellness & Community Centers

June 4, 2012

The Board of Directors of Metro Wellness & Community Centers, chaired by Dr. Scott Strader, recently announced a restructuring of the organization’s executive management.

Metro Wellness & Community Centers began providing services in St. Petersburg 19 years ago, with 30 clients and a budget of $42,000. Today, with over $5.8 million annually in Federal, State, County and private funding, it serves over 8,000 clients within 20 programs in Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties. MWCC also provides social activities, education and health and wellness services for the Tampa Bay LGBT Community and their allies.

Metro Wellness & Community Centers is pleased and proud to announce that Ms. Lorraine Langlois, the organization’s founding director, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Tonicia Freeman, who leads Metro’s Prevention programs, has been appointed Vice President of Health Prevention Programs, and Ms. Priya Rajkumar, heading Metro’s case management and minority AIDS initiatives, has been appointed Vice President of Client Health Services. Mr. Alberto Vazquez leads Metro’s financial operations in his new appointment to Vice President of Finance & Administration.

Other programs are led by current Directors and executive staff. “This new structure better reflects the growth and managerial expertise within our culture,” said Ms. Langlois. “It also places us in a better strategic position as an organization, following the current trend of non-profit agencies moving to a more accountable corporate structure.”

Questions and comments may be directed to Ms. Langlois at 727-321-3854 or info@metrotampabay.org.

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Ybor Residents Protest Plan for Power Poles
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SAVE 10%
or More
A special offer just for you!
Save $50
Save $15
Discounts
on
2012 Passes
Dear Friend of the Festival,

 

The 2012 festival is a few months away, but if you act now you can take advantage of exclusive early-bird discounts on festival passes. We’re still in the process of choosing this season’s films; since we are essentially the last of the year’s major LGBT filmfests, we can gauge the audience reaction to films in other festivals and pick the best. We’ll also have some of our regular attendees picking this year’s shorts. Be assured we’ll have a great selection.
The Simply Fabulous pass includes the Crown Circle pass benefits plus access to the green room (beverages), reserved seating, free festival closing night party, 12 months’ admission to all monthly film series screenings and, NEW THIS YEAR, a reserved parking space near the Tampa Theatre with your name on the meter.  Only 20 Simply Fabulous Passes are available this year. More information and purchase coupon
The Crown Circle pass includes admission to all 30+ films at this year’s festival (in Tampa & St. Pete), early entry, and complimentary beverage for every film at Tampa Theatre. More details and purchase coupon
***************************
 
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MEDIA ALERT: DINE TAMPA BAY TEMPTS TASTE BUDS WITH LOCAL OPTIONS

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

Tampa Bay & Company l  401 E. Jackson Street, Suite 2100 l  Tampa, FL 33602

(813) 223-1111 l   (813) 229-6616 l  VisitTampaBay.com

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                            MEDIA CONTACT:

May 31, 2012                                                                        Travis Claytor at 813-342-4052

 

TAMPA, FL – The third annual Dine Tampa Bay Restaurant week is just over two months away, and the excitement is already building for what’s expected to be the best restaurant week yet. 

 

Tampa Bay & Company and Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater, as well as the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, have teamed up to present the third annual event, which will take place Aug. 3-17, 2012.  Food lovers have a chance to experience some of the area’s finest restaurants during the two-week period.  Each restaurant will provide a special Restaurant Week menu in addition to their standard menu, which will suggest three options for each course. 

 

Participating locations will showcase their dinner options by offering $25, $35, or $45 prix-fixe, three-course menus, which includes an appetizer, entrée and dessert (prices are per person and exclude beverages, tax and gratuities).

 

Nearly 40 restaurants have already signed up to participate, with many others expected to join before it kicks off in August.  Current participating restaurants include:

 

400 Beach Seafood & Tap House

Aqua

Beachwood BBQ

Bella’s Italian Café

Besa Grill

Boizao Brazilian Steakhouse

Bon Appétit Restaurant

Café Largo

Capital Grille, The

Cassis American Brasserie

Centre Club

Datz

Dempsey’s Steakhouse

Dempsey’s Too

FlameStone American Grill

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

GrillSmith -Brandon

GrillSmith-Carrollwood

GrillSmith-Countryside

GrillSmith-Lakeland

GrillSmith-New Tampa

GrillSmith-South Tampa

Hangar Restaurant & Flight Lounge, The

Kona Grill

Lauro Ristorante

Marchand’s Bar & Grill

Melting Pot, The-St.Petersburg

Melting Pot, The-Tampa

Ocean Prime

Parkshore Grill

Pelagia Trattoria

Roy’s Restaurant

Seasons 52

Shula’s

SideBern’s

Tinatapas

Villaggio Ristorante

 

For more information about DINE Tampa Bay Restaurant Week, for sponsorship opportunities or to participate, log on to DineTampaBay.com or email Info@DineTampaBay.com.

 

Media contact is Travis Claytor, communications manager for Tampa Bay & Company, at 813-342-4052 or TClaytor@VisitTampaBay.com. 

 

Tampa Bay & Company is an independent, non-profit membership organization created to attract and serve visitors to Tampa Bay in an effort to create “Economic Development Through Tourism.”  Tampa Bay & Company is funded, in part, by the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners/Tourist Development Council.

 

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From the MC Film Mail Bag

Posted on by

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 PFLAG Tampa – Homeless Youth Forum Invitation

Dear Mark & Carrie-

PFLAG Tampa has been working for months with The Homeless Coalition of Hillsborough County (HCHC) and other service providers (some of whom are also members of GaYbor) to develop a Homeless Youth Forum event to raise awareness of the plight of homeless youth. On any given day there are hundreds of young people in our community who find themselves without a place to call home and this event promises to provide great insight into how our community can address this crisis. The Forum will include a guest panel of homeless and formerly homeless youth who will tell their stories through a powerful video and answer audience questions about their experiences and how they are addressing the challenges they have faced, including domestic violence, aging out of the foster care system, lockouts and commercial sexual exploitation. Resources for homeless adults in Hillsborough County are scarce. For youth, they’re almost non-existent. PFLAG Tampa is particularly concerned about this vulnerable population — research has shown that up to half of homeless youth are LGBT, having been locked out of their homes.

Mr. Jeremiah Kerr, an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer working at HCHC (and a PFLAG Tampa officer!), has worked tirelessly to make the Homeless Youth Forum a reality. This event will be hosted by HCHC and co-moderated by Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner and Homeless Coalition CEO, Rayme L. Nuckles. (Please see the attached flyer.)

Invitations have been extended to elected officials at the city, county, state and federal levels. Gov. Rick Scott has graciously accepted his invitation and will speak at the Homeless Youth Forum.

PFLAG Tampa would like to extend a special invitation to the members of GaYbor to attend this extraordinary event. Seating is limited, so be sure to register as soon as possible for your FREE tickets. A complimentary breakfast will be provided.

We’d like these kids to look out across a packed theater full of interested and supportive allies. If you can possibly attend, please do. Feel free to forward this to anyone you think might be interested.

Where:

Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Jaeb Theater, 1010 North W.C. MacInnes Pl., Tampa, 33602

Date:

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Time:

Complimentary breakfast — 8:30am to 9:30am
Forum — 9:30am to 11:00am

Cost:

Free, but registration required.

Register:

www.homelessofhc.org (If the link doesn’t work, browse to the HCHC website and register from there.)

Parking:

Inexpensive and plentiful parking available at the Poe Garage, with a covered walkway to the Straz Center. Hourly parking entrances are on W. Cass St. and N. Ashley Dr.(Please see the attached map.)

See you at the Straz!

– John & Nancy Desmond, PFLAG Tampa

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
– Martin Luther King, Jr., Letter from a Birmingham Jail, 1963

“We must make it clear that a platform of ‘I hate gay men and women’
is not a way to become president of the United States of America.”
– Jimmy Carter, 1996

Email: pflag.tampa@gmail.com
Web: http://pflagtampa.org
Telephone: (863) 535-5239
Calendar: http://goo.gl/gg3dp
Facebook: http://facebook.com/PFLAGTampa
========================================================
PFLAG Tampa meetings:
1st Wednesday of the month — 7:00pm in the Fellowship Hall of the First
United Church of Tampa (UCC), 7308 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617.
(Temple Terrace area of Tampa, just off I-75.)
3rd Tuesday of the month — 7:00pm at Faith Family UCC, 9350 Bay Plaza
Blvd, Suite 125, Tampa, FL 33619. (Off Rt. 60, E. Adamo Dr., between
Rt. 301 and S. Falkenburg Rd.)
========================================================
PFLAG is a nonprofit organization that is not affiliated with any political
party or religious institution.

******************************************************************

6th Annual LGBT Community Survey
Dear CenterLink Friend,

We would like to invite you to take a new survey about your opinions and preferences, from an LGBT perspective.

There’s power in our Pride! Participating in this study helps open minds and doors around the world, and influences positive changes for our community. Previous surveys have yielded 45,000 respondents from 100+ countries! You may have seen CMI research quoted in the New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, etc.

Click here to start the survey, or paste the following into your browser: http://www.LGBTSurvey.com.

Please let them know that CenterLink referred you!

It only take about 10 minutes to complete. Everyone who completes the survey by June 30th may opt to be entered into a drawing to win one of five $100 cash prizes, or if you win, you can designate a charity to receive the $100.

If you have LGBT friends around the world who might be interested in this survey, please forward this message to them. And please post it to your Facebook and Twitter accounts

**********************************************
 SPI Red Dress Ball

Novice Sister Tootie Truly Humble and the Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence are excited to announce their first annual Red Dress Ball. It is a Sister event so it will be HOT, SEXY, and FUN.
The SPI Red Dress Ball in conjunction with St. Pete Pride is the Pre-Pride Kick-off in Tampa, and will be held at Bradley’s on 7th Avenue in Ybor City Saturday, June 23rd starting at 9 P.M.
ALL proceeds will benefit the Francis House and St. Pete Pride.  There will be Jell-O Shots, Two Raffles (prizes & 50/50), and Gift Basket drawings throughout the evening.
RED DRESS BALL
$10 suggested donation
June 23, 2012
9 P.M. till… ?
Bradley’s
1510 E. 7th Avenue
Ybor City, FL 33605
For more information about the Sisters and this event please visit www.tampasisters.org
Or search for the Red Dress Ball event on Facebook

From the MC Film Fest Mail Bag…. 5-23-2012

Posted on by

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

May 16, 2012

St. Pete Pride kicks off the festivities with a Pride + Fashion event

 at Macy’s Tyrone Square

Celebrities Jai Rodriguez and Alec Mapa to host the event

WHAT:             St. Pete Pride, in partnership with Macy’s, is excited to announce that television host and Broadway singer/performer Jai Rodriguez and award winning actor, comedian, playwright, and journalist Alec Mapa will headline this year’s Pride + Fashion event at the Macy’s in Tyrone Square Mall on Friday, June 29. The annual event officially kicks off St. Pete Pride weekend for visitors and residents alike and showcases the latest trends in fashion.

WHO:             The Emmy award-winning Jai Rodriguez began his career at 18 when he was cast as Angel in the musical RENT. Although most recognized for his role in Bravo’s culturally groundbreaking series Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Rodriguez has shared the stage with legends like Gladys Knight, Patti Labelle, Brian McKnight and Taylor Dayne. He currently serves as the Co-Creator and Co-Executive Producer for LOGO’s new series Bad Sex, a docu-reality series that helps people face their fears around love, sex and intimacy. Most recently, Rodriguez returned to TV in roles on NBC’s Harrys Law and Are You There Chelsea?; ABC’s Detroit 187, Days Of Our Lives and How I Met Your Mother; FOX’s Bones; FX’s Nip/Tuck; and Teen Nick’s GIGANTIC. Additionally, he starred in an ABC sitcom (pilot) opposite Reba Mcentire, Lily Tomlin and Sara Rue.

Alec Mapa’s career on Broadway, television and movies spans more than twenty years. As Mapa says, “Luckily, he’s Filipino, which means he’ll look thirty when he’s fifty, fifty when he’s seventy and by the time he’s eighty he’ll be too pooped to care. But enough with the Asian Math!” Mapa had the distinction of playing network television’s first gay Asian series regular character on the short-lived CBS sitcom Some of My Best Friends. Alec then spent four seasons on the UPN sitcom Half and Halt. His Wisecrack! Comedy special debuted on LOGO in 2005 and has played in heavy rotation ever since. Currently, he can be seen on Reruns of the hit ABC comedy Ugly Betty and Desperate Housewives. As an out gay actor of Filipino descent, Mapa has long been a Worker for causes benefiting AIDS and the LGBT and Asian American communities, including The Human Rights Campaign, The Matthew Shepard Foundation, Gay and Lesbian Adolescent Social Services (GLASS), Project Angel Food, AIDS Project Los Angeles and Lambda Legal, among others. For his dedication, Mapa was recently honored with the East West Visionary Award, the Rand Schraeder Distinguished Achievement Award from the Gay and Lesbian Center of Los Angeles and the Davidson/Valentini Award from GLADD; and he was nominated for a Maggie Award for his editorial columns in The Advocate magazine. He truly is “America’s Gay Asian Sweetheart!”

This year’s Mistress of Ceremonies and one of America’s 50 Funniest Lesbians, Christine O’Leary, will join Jai and Alec for what’s sure to be a great time on the runway. There may even be a few more surprise guests left in store for the audience!

WHEN:             Friday, June 29, 2012      6pm

WHERE:             Macy’s at Tyrone Square Mall, Men’s Department

6901 Tyrone Square St. Petersburg, FL

MORE:             A $10 suggested donation to the event is requested. In turn, Macy’s will provide customers with a $10 Macy’s gift card. All proceeds benefit St. Pete Pride. Guests will also enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, provided by Georgie’s Alibi, and champagne, provided by Barefoot Wine and Bubbly. This fashion extravaganza kicks off the annual Jagermeister Pride Pre-Party, which follows at Georgie’s Alibi, 3100 3rd Avenue North in St. Petersburg and starts the party for the 10th Annual Pride in Paradise.

 

St. Pete Pride is expected to draw an estimated 90,000-100,000 people this year and has a plethora of events occurring throughout the month of June leading up to the official St. Pete Pride Street Festival & Promenade.

 

Photos: Attached.

About St. Pete Pride

St. Pete Pride is a 501(c)3 organization whose purpose is to promote unity, visibility, self-esteem and a positive image of and among the LGBT community of St. Petersburg and throughout the state of Florida by way of cultural and educational programs and activities including an annual St. Pete Pride Promenade and Street Festival Event.

For more information call St. Pete Pride at 727-279-LGBT (5428) or visit www.stpetepride.com.

 

St. Pete Pride is sponsored by Macy’s Inc, Creative Loafing, Florida Blue, FunMaps, JetBlue Airways, PepsiCo, PLAY 98.7, Tampa Bay Times, Visit St. Petersburg Clearwater, Watermark Media, AYP 1, Inc, Gayborhood App, GSH Radio, HotSpots Magazine, Jagermeister, One Magical Weekend, Rainbow411.com, Snap!Qpon.com, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, Bud Light, EDELWEISS AIR, Flamingo Resort, Georgies Alibi of St. Petersburg, ProSuzy.com, Trans*Action Florida

Thank you to our additional media partners: tbt, Beadle Media, LGBT Live, MyQmunity.com, What’s Happening Magazine, Dishing with Mark & Carrie, GayStPete.com, ILoveTheBurg.com and Pet Pride Magazine.

Media Contacts:

Chris Rudisill, Executive Director

St. Pete Pride, Inc.

Email: chris@stpetepride.com, (cell) 727-643-9160, (office) 727-279-LGBT

P.O. Box 12647, St. Petersburg, FL 33733

 www.stpetepride.com  |  www.facebook.com/stpetepride  |  www.twitter.com/stpetepride

Georgi Pipkin, Macy’s Media Relations

Georgi.Pipkin@macys.com, (305)577-1973

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Chris Rudisill
Executive Director

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St. Pete Pride Looks for New Executive Director
May 17, 2012
St. Pete Pride Looks for Executive Director
Following Executive Director Chris Rudisill’s resignation release two weeks ago, the Board of
Directors at St. Pete Pride are opening up a search for a new Executive Director to step in for the
2012-2013 Season. Resumes are now being accepted and must be filed with the organization no
later than midnight on June 15, 2012. Rudisill will work out this year’s Pride event and will be
leaving the organization on July 15, 2012.
The Executive Director is responsible for leadership and management of the organization, funds
development, planning and coordination of events, office management and media/public
relations for the organization.
St. Pete Pride is expected to draw an estimated 90,000-100,000 people this year and has a
plethora of events occurring throughout the month of June leading up to the official St. Pete
Pride Street Festival & Promenade.
Applicants interested in the Executive Director position should e-mail a cover letter, resume,
contact information for three references and salary requirements to Stanley Solomons, Board of
Directors President at Stanley@stpetepride.com. The board asks that “Executive Director
Position” be placed in the e-mails subject line.
For more information email Stanley Solomons at Stanley@stpetepride.com or visit www.stpetepride.com.
St. Pete Pride is a 501(c)3 organization whose purpose is to promote unity, visibility, self-esteem and a positive
image of and among the LGBT community of St. Petersburg and throughout the state of Florida by way of cultural
and educational programs and activities including an annual St. Pete Pride Promenade and Street Festival Event.
—
Media Contact:
Chris Rudisill, Executive Director
St. Pete Pride, Inc.
Email: chris@stpetepride.com, (cell) 727-643-9160, (office) 727-279-LGBT
P.O. Box 12647, St. Petersburg, FL 33733
www.stpetepride.com | www.facebook.com/stpetepride | www.twitter.com/stpetepride
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PFLAG Tampa Working with Others
From: pflag.tampa@gmail.com
To: pflag.tampa@gmail.com
Sent: 5/22/2012 2:07:53 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
Subj: PFLAG Tampa – Homeless Youth Forum Invitation

Friends-

If you’ve been reading our newsletters, you know that PFLAG Tampa has been working for months with The Homeless Coalition of Hillsborough County (HCHC) and other service providers to develop a Homeless Youth Forum event to raise awareness of the plight of homeless youth. On any given day there are hundreds of young people in our community who find themselves without a place to call home and this event promises to provide great insight into how our community can address this crisis. The Forum will include a guest panel of homeless and formerly homeless youth who will tell their stories through a powerful video and answer audience questions about their experiences and how they are addressing the challenges they have faced, including domestic violence, aging out of the foster care system, lockouts and commercial sexual exploitation. Resources for homeless adults in Hillsborough County are scarce. For youth, they’re almost non-existent. PFLAG Tampa is particularly concerned about this vulnerable population — research has shown that up to half of homeless youth are LGBT, having been locked out of their homes.

Mr. Jeremiah Kerr, an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer working at HCHC (and a PFLAG Tampa officer!), has worked tirelessly to make the Homeless Youth Forum a reality. This event will be hosted by HCHC and co-moderated by Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner and Homeless Coalition CEO, Rayme L. Nuckles. (Please see the attached flyer.)

Invitations have been extended to elected officials at the city, county, state and federal levels. Gov. Rick Scott has graciously accepted his invitation and will speak at the Homeless Youth Forum.

PFLAG Tampa would like to extend a special invitation to all of you to attend this extraordinary event. Seating is limited, so be sure to register as soon as possible for your FREE tickets. A complimentary breakfast will be provided.

We’d like these kids to look out across a packed theater full of interested and supportive allies. If you can possibly attend, please do. Feel free to forward this to anyone you think might be interested.

Where:

Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Jaeb Theater, 1010 North W.C. MacInnes Pl., Tampa, 33602

Date:

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Time:

Complimentary breakfast — 8:30am to 9:30am
Forum — 9:30am to 11:00am

Cost:

Free, but registration required.

Register:

www.homelessofhc.org (If the link doesn’t work, browse to the HCHC website and register from there.)

Parking:

Inexpensive and plentiful parking available at the Poe Garage, with a covered walkway to the Straz Center. Hourly parking entrances are on W. Cass St. and N. Ashley Dr.(Please see the attached map.)

See you at the Straz!

– John & Nancy Desmond, PFLAG Tampa

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
– Martin Luther King, Jr., Letter from a Birmingham Jail, 1963

“We must make it clear that a platform of ‘I hate gay men and women’
is not a way to become president of the United States of America.”
– Jimmy Carter, 1996

Email: pflag.tampa@gmail.com
Web: http://pflagtampa.org
Telephone: (863) 535-5239
Calendar: http://goo.gl/gg3dp
Facebook: http://facebook.com/PFLAGTampa