Travel - News

SIZZLING STONEWALL NIGHT PARADE FESTIVAL JUNE 16TH JUNE 22ndThe Pride of Greater Fort Lauderdale is proud to announce the theme of the 9th Annual Stonewall Street Festival 2008: “Sizzling With Pride!” A full week’s worth of events, parties, food and entertainment with the first ever Annual Night Parade!Monday, June 16th- Sunday, June 22ndThis is our opportunity to be a part of the excitement and festivities that will be the 2008 Stonewall StreetFestival. Feature your business and build on community relations as an official sanctioned event.Saturday, June 21stFirst Ever Night Parade & Street Party that begins at Rosie’s Bar & Grill, with a special T-Dance starting at 5 pm. Then dance to sounds of DJ Joe Bermudez until the unbelievable Night Parade. The crowed will be thrilled by the vibrantly lit float sponsored by the businesses and organizations in support of the GLBT community. After the parade ends around 9:30 pm, singing sensation Tammy Wright will perform her hit “Passion” and then everyone continues to dance to DJ Bermudez until midnight!Sunday June 22nd Annual Street Festival &Exhibition. Don’t miss it because it starts earlier than you might think – 10 am! Crystal Waters will perform at 2 pm and it ends at 5 pm.    SELENIUM CONSUMPTION SHOWN TO SUPPRESS HIVAccording to the BBC News, theUniversity ofMiami   According to the BBC News, theUniversity ofMiami’s Researchers concluded that people with greater amounts of selenium in their blood tended to have a lower HIV viral load and higher numbers of CD4 cells which fight off infection. According to the research, taking daily selenium pills can block the build-up of HIV in the blood. HBO +FLORIDA = “RECOUNT”The HBO movie Recount takes us back to the 2000 election headache in Florida with the use of historical news footage with a last scene very memorable shot of theFlorida ballots, boxed and abandoned in a basement. The Supreme Court that made the final decision has never given any reason why. GAY PRIDE WIN INFLORIDAHIGH SCHOOLTriumph for junior high school student Heather Gillman of Ponce de Leon High School inFlorida, who sued and won the right to wear Gay Pride gear! The principle was against the words “gay pride”, written on their belongings and for having other symbols relating to the GLB community. MOLDAVIA ISHTAR & DANAMANCHESTERMoldavia Ishtar and Dana Manchester are deeply missed and still remembered and celebrated for their total magnificence as female impersonator entertainers and for themselves.       

PINKIES UP 316

It’s hard for me to believe that we are coming up on the one year anniversary of Martini Madness, it’s even harder for me to think that we have raised nearly $300,000 for our local 501 © 3 charities.  For the first time, this May we are taking the martini glass on the road and visiting

See you on May 3.  Buzz Multimedia is a proud sponsor of St. Pete Pride.

Then on Wednesday, May 14 the Martini moves back to Georgies’ Alibi from 7-9pm to raise money for Pride of Greater Fort Lauderdale that produces the Stonewall Street Festival and Parade.  This years event will be a two day celebration beginning with a night time parade “Festival of Lights” with entries being decorated in lights, and the festival opening at 10:00am on Sunday.  Once again BUZZ Multimedia is a proud sponsor

All of this means one thing, it’s time to get the calendar out and start all over for year number two of Martini Madness.  Are you on the list?  Make sure to email me information on your 501 © 3 non-profit organization so that you may be included!

RODEO A HUGE SUCCESS!

Once again, organizers of the Sunshine Stampede can be proud of what they accomplished for a third year in a row.  Record numbers of attendees came out for the two day event and Scandals, Alibi and Bills all report record numbers.  Friday night at Scandals the K-Mart parking lot across the street was FULL and people just had to keep circling to find parking.  Having been attending the Rodeo since its’ inception three years ago I can say without hesitation that it’s one weekend that I truly look forward to.  Each year the organization has fine tuned the “machine” to make it an event that goes so smoothly.  Unfortunately, there were a few injuries that required the ambulance to take a couple of contestants  to local hospitals but none were life threatening.  Even with the overnight rains on Saturday night didn’t damped the spirits, the sun came out late in the morning and by noon the crowds were flocking in.  I’m sure that many were nursing hangovers from the Hoedown the night before.  Sunday night I was pleased and proud to be one of the presenters at the closing dinner at the Hilton Hotel.  The boys from Naked Grape had sponsored one of the award buckles, and since they were on vacation asked if I would stand in for them.  Thanks Guys! 

In speaking to several of the members of the FGRA Board it looks pretty promising that they may get another contract at Bergeron Rodeo Grounds for at least another year or two.  Again, congratulations to Florida Gay Rodeo Association for a terrific event!

DEAN AND LEE TO DEPART

It was great to see Dean and Lee, local country western entertainers at the Rodeo last week, however,  there is some good news and some bad news.  First the good news; Mathew Dean is doing very well following a massive heart attack as few months back, and he looks great.  The bad news is that they are moving to

Good Luck Boys!

PINKIESUP.INFO

If you haven’t visited www.pinkiesup.info recently, why not check it out?  We’ve added lots of new things to the site, including a great new look, more photos, articles and blogs.

Many times celebrity interviews will only run in the book where the individual is appearing, now all celeb interviews will be on the site.  Why not check it out.  Have photos you’d like to submit for the site?  Email them to me at dalemadison1@aol.com.

While I can’t guarantee that all will be used, we’ll certainly consider them and give you photo credit!

DON”T MISS CASHETTA

One of my favorite entertainers is now starring in her own Vegas style magic show.

Cashetta, Queen of Magic is now performing in her own, new full-length illusion show on stage with her cast of beautiful showgirls and handsome assistants.  This show is a Cashetta you’ve never seen before with an act that truly rivals and Vegas headline.  Opening night is Friday, April 25 at 10pm with future performances the last Friday of the month through September (which means the girl ain’t goin’ to P-town for the summer) at the Cinema Paradiso Theatre located in downtown

www.buzztickets.com or at the box office the night of the performance.  Reservations are strongly recommended.  Call 954-525-FILM.

LOOKING FOR A LOVE?

I’ll bet I got your attention!  If you are looking to adopt a pet, I urge you to visit www.getalifepetrescue.com website.  Stacy, who runs the rescue/adoption, no kill organization has some adorable, adoptable dogs on the site.  She’s great about telling you the story behind the animal and how it became orphaned.  I will warn you, some of the stories really get to you.  If you are thinking about adopting a pet, I urge you to log on to their website!

That’s it for this week!  Remember, keep those press releases, announcements and invitations coming to me at dalemadison1@aol.com, and don’t forget my website at www.pinkiesup.info

COMMUNITY CORNER 316

MEN’S BRIDGE CLUB (Monday & Friday afternoons, April 21 & 25 1-4PM GLCC Main Hall)

Whether you are a novice or master bridge player, the men’s bridge group is always looking for “new friends” who like to play (bridge, that is)!  Meet and play some cards with guys at the GLCC on Friday and Sunday afternoons from 1-4pm.  No need to register, just show up to play.  Great guys-great cards-great fun (no cheating!)for all.  Try it out and see for yourself.  Only a $1 donation at the door!  How may things can you do these days that are fun, involve men, and only cost a dollar?

MAN2MAN TLAK (Monday, April 21, 7-8:30PM, GLCC Meeting Room 1)

The requirements are easy…if you’re a gay man, any age or background and have issues or things you would like to talk about, this is for you.  If you don’t have issues, perhaps you could share and help others.  Man2Man Talk is not a self-help program, or twelve step program and there are no set issues or topics…just a bunch of guys getting together each week with an opportunity to talk and be social.  If you’re lonely and would like some healthy interaction, this could be perfect for you.  Don’t make a reservation…just show up!  There are optional trips after the meeting if you want to grab something to eat or drink with potential new friends or good people to know.  For more information please email John at Jwilson@email.com

SMRCA GENERAL MEETING-MAIN HALL (Tuesday, April 22, 7-10PM GLCC)

This large neighborhood association that includes the GLCC and meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month and affects a lot of the GLBT community who live in the area South of Wilton Manors, North of Sunrise Blvd. East of Powerline, and West of Wilton Drive.  The meetings are designed to inform, educate and develop a community spirit.  Know what is happening, what’s planned and most importantly, your voices being heard on these and other subjects.  If you live in this huge are and would like to be more involved and meet your neighbors, this is an excellent first step.  For more information contact Rick Gibson, President of SMRCA at 954-592-4120.

AfterLife Group Meeting (Wednesday, April 23, 6:30-8:30PM, GLCC, Room 2)

Did you know there is a group that discusses the afterlife?  Well there isn’t silly.  This is a meeting for men who have completed the Life Program talking about HIV and life.  The Life Program is a powerful and strengthened by participating in the AfterLife Group Meetings at the GLCC.  If you wish more information about the Life Program, call GLCC for more information.  PROGRAM AND TALK ABOUT HIV AND LIFE.

The GLCC of South Florida sends out regular EVoice email newsletter that will keep you informed and up to the minute on events, services and helping you to stay connected to OUR community.  If you do not currently receive the GLCC’s EVoice and you would like to learn more about everything from travel services and events, to how to get help with your health or emotional well being, please visit the GLCC website, www.glccsf.org and sign up to receive the EVoice, it’s easy to do.

HOW FAR WOULD YOU GO?  The GLCC is launching a Full Service Travel Webiste that can take you further that you ever dreamed possible, while helping to raise new funds needed to support the programs and services we provide to the community.  Check the GLCC website in the coming weeks.

Have an upcoming community event that you’d like to have listed in the Community Corner?  Please email me the details to dalemadison1@aol.com at least 14 days in advance to allow for maximum exposure.

PINKIES UP 314

Lots to report to you this week so let’s get to it……

BIG EVENT AT

Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour will host and event TONIGHT, April 3, 2008 from 6:00pm-9:00pm.  Sorry for the short notice however, the information got to me late. The event tonight will benefit AIDS Walk Miami, of which BUZZ Magazine is a proud sponsor.  Tickets for the event are $25.00, and with the purchase of a ticket you will also receive a $25.00 gift card from Saks to be used towards any Men’s Contemporary purchase made during the event.  The AIDS Walk Miami benefiting Care Resource, Broward House, Gay and Lesbian Community Center of South Florida and Food For Life will be held on April 20^th.

DOG WASH BIG SUCCESS

On Saturday, March 22 the Pet Project held a dog wash in the Shoppes of Wilton Manors parking lot.  Crews set up in teams were washing lots of pets and diners at the Alibi patio got a good look at the pooches and their owners.  Great turnout and fortunately the rains held off for the better part of the afternoon.  Plans are being made already to repeat the event soon, and Pinkies Up will have it for you.

THEATRE NEWS

SIX DANCE LESSONS IN SIX WEEKS

Rising Action Theatre presents Richard Alfieri’s moving comedy Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks beginning on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8pm and Sundays at 3:30pm from April 10-May 25 at their theatre located at

The plot: When Lilly Harrison, a recent widow of a Southern Baptist Minister hires an outspoken dance instructor 30 years her junior to give her private dance lessons, she get more than she bargained for leading to a profound compatibility and friendship between the unlikely pair.  The show is a crowd pleaser for all age groups, and a show you can take your mother to.  The movie of the same name is slated for production with Shirley McClaine and Rupert Everett.  The play debuted in LA with Uta Hagan and David Hyde Pierce, then opened at the Coconut Grove Playhouse with Rue McClanahan and Mark Hamill finally transferring to Broadway with Polly Bergen and Mark Hamill.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE GRAND RESORT AND SPA

Just a quick congratulations to the Grand Resort and Spa in Fort Lauderdale on their recent recognition as one of the Top Ten Gay-Owned Resorts and Spa by Out Traveler Magazine.  They were number 7 on the list and a distinction well deserved.  I have experience several of their spa treatments and can easily say, they earn Two Pinkies Up!

Congrats!

That’s it for this week.  Remember to keep those press releases, announcements and invitations coming to me at dalemadison1@aol.com.  Until next week.

DEBORAH COX INTERVIEW

International recording star, Deborah Cox is much more than just a singer.  Add to her resume songwriter, actress on television, film, stage as well and now part of the Cyndi Lauper “True Colors” tour.  An amazing career of a

I recently caught up with Deborah who was preparing for her upcoming performance in Y’bor City at Steam this Friday, March 21 for a quick Q & A.

DM: Who in your professional life has impacted your career?

DC: I started making records with Clive Davis.  Si I guess he would have been the first to really help me get started professionally.  Over the years, I have met some amazing writers and producers who I feel really have made my journey….very interesting!

DM:  With all that you have accomplished in your career what has been the most exciting?

DC:  For me, I have learned to “be in the moment”.  Singing has taken me all over the world.  I went to Bali last year and I love

DM: When it comes to performing live on stage, or going into the studio to record, which do you prefer, and why? 

DC: I prefer the live shows myself.  Being in the studio is isolating.  I’d rather be in front of a crowd feeling the energy of the people.  I live for performing for my fans and friends.

DM: What one piece of advice to aspiring singers/performers would you have?

DC: Try to get as much knowledge of the business as you can.  It is much easier to get attention nowadays.  With reality shows and American Idol, you can use those tyopes of shows to make connections but without knowledge of the business side you won’t last.  I would highly recommend reading and getting knowledge about the record business.

DM: How did you get interested in performing?

DC: I have always had a love for music.  I love expressing myself through song.  I like writing music too.  By the time I was 6 or 7 I knew that music would be the path I would take.  My mother told me that as a baby I would sing along to all the commercials on TV.

DM: I see that you are going to be performing with Cyndi Lauper’s True Colors tour.  How did that come about and how did you respond upon getting the news?

DC:  I was approached by her people to some dates on the tour.  I love her music.  I even included some of my faves of hers in my own show….Songs like TRUE COLORS and TIME AFTER TIME are my all times favorites.  She is an amazing performer and I am so looking forward to being on the same stage as her!

Make sure to get to STEAM early as it will be packed!  Deborah is scheduled for this Friday night, March 21.