Wire Magazine 19.2017 Pride Around the World

ISSUE # 19 | 05.11.17 ARTUNDRESSED ART + NUDITY 7TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL DESTINATIONS: QUÉBEC FABULOUSLY FRENCH CANADIAN TOP TRAX: EMIN'S MIAMI TOUR FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE

PRIDE AROUND THE WORLD PLAN YOUR CELEBRATIONS A COMMUNITY UNITED

DENTAL Insurance Physicians Mutual Insurance Company

A less expensive way to help get the dental care you deserve If you’re over 50, you can get coverage for about $1 a day*

Keep your own dentist!

NO networks to worry about

No wait for preventive care and no deductibles – you could get a checkup tomorrow

cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns…even dentures

NO annual or lifetime cap on the cash benefits you can receive

FREE Information Kit

TABLE OF CONTENTS: 8The. FEATURE: ARTUNDRESSED fusion of art and sensuality in the form of

nudity is explored extensively in the upcoming 7th annual ARTundressed Festival and Wire Magazine sat down with acclaimed artist Noel to discuss the occasion.

14Pride. COVER STORY: PRIDE AROUND THE WORLD is an international experience, so Wire Magazine brings you a special issue that offers a look at many of the celebrations dotting the globe.

20 . TOP TRAX: FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE Emin Araz oglu Agalarov (we'll just call him Emin)

1-866-748-4542 www.dental50plus.com/wire

*Individual plan.

Product not available in MN, MT, NH, RI, VT, WA. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY;call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN)

6096D

MB16-NM001Dc

is about to do what no other Russian male singer has done before – become America's newest pop star – and he's starting with Miami.

22 . DESTINATIONS: QUÉBEC Travelers can get all the French immersion and

culture they might want much closer to home and enjoy a beneficial currency exchange in Canada's Québec.

26 . GOING OUT: PLAN YOUR OUTINGS The week's rundown of nightlife, dining and cultural events.

PHOTO BY PETER ARNOW. COURTESY OF KEY WEST PRIDE

Coverage for over 350 procedures – including

Publisher/Editor in Chief Rafa Carvajal Editor Michael W. Sasser Associate Publisher/Editor Michael Bustamante Design & Production True Ink Designs L.L.C. | trueinkdesigns.com Columnists Alfredo Barrios Alyn Darnay Dane Steele Green Anthony Reyes Dr. Amy Wecker Official Photography Studio Photo Studio Miami Staff Photographer J.R. Davis Local Advertising advertising@wiremag.com

AT TWIST MPHOTUOSSBYCJ.LER. DABVISOY SS ATURDAYS WWW.WIREMAG.COM/PHOTO

National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media | 212.242.6863 Contact Information Tel: 305.520.WIRE Email: info@wiremag.com 1541 Brickell Avenue, #2004, Miami, FL 33129 Wire Magazine is published, produced, and owned by Wire Media Group L.L.C. All Rights Reserved.

Distributed in print in Miami, The Beaches, and Fort Lauderdale, and digitally worldwide through wiremag.com The views, opinions or positions expressed by contributors to and interview subjects of Wire Magazine are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Wire Magazine, its staff or publisher.

Cover photo by Jorge Freire & Abel Cruz www.photostudiomiami.com Model: Julio Rodriguez Instagram: jl_rodriguezl

PUBLISHER'S CORNER THE FIGHT FOR FULL EQUALITY UNDER THE LAW GOES ON! What began at Stonewall almost half a century ago is today a global movement inspired by those first few LGBTQ individuals who stood up to an oppressive society and asserted that they would be second class citizens no more. Here in the the U.S., the struggle for equality has had notable successes, most recently with the advent of gay marriage recognition and full civil rights protections in countless cities, large and small, around the country. We celebrate these advances each year at Pride celebrations nationwide each summer, joining together with one another and with friends and allies.

However, while we plan our Pride celebrations, we should remember that the advances we have made are not universal and are being threatened. We should recognize that while we organize for Pride this year and prepare to make a statement, with a wary eye on any who would try to strip away our rights, we are considerably better off than our brothers and sisters in many parts of the world.

Yes, we face challenges from the forces of hate and discrimination in all forms.

But, relatively, we face legitimate First World problems. As we head into Pride this summer, we should remember that in the Middle East, gays are summarily executed. In Russia, gays and lesbians are criminals simply by fact of their existence.

As we observe Pride in 2017, let's not forget that this global movement has yet to illuminate some parts of the world at all.

Activism is, and must be, as much a part of many Pride events this year as parades and parties, as you can tell reviewing Wire Magazine's Pride Around the World cover story in this week’s special Pride Around the World edition. Once again, Wire Magazine offers readers a survey of Pride events near and far. We hope this annual guide helps you make travel plans or at the very least, reminds you of the global nature of the LGBTQ community and our collective efforts toward global equality.

Call Now: 888-233-5843

Their Price

CrestorTM

Are You Still Paying Too Much For Your Medications?

870.10

$

Typical US Brand Price

for 40mg x 100

Our Price

Rosuvastatin* $

You can save up to 97% when you fill your prescriptions with our Canadian and International prescription service.

141

Generic equivalent of CrestorTM Generic price for for 40mg x 100

2011.91

$

ViagraTM

Typical US Brand Price for 100mg x 40

vs Sildenafil*

139.00

$

Generic Price for 100mg x 40

Get An Extra $15 Off & Free Shipping On Your 1st Order!

Call the number below and save an additional $15 plus get free shipping on your first prescription order with Canada Drug Center. Expires June 30, 2017. Offer is valid for prescription orders only and can not be used in conjunction with any other offers. Valid for new customers only. One time use per household. Use code 15FREE to receive this special offer.

Get an extra

$15 off

plus FREE SHIPPING

Toll-free: 888-233-5843 www.canadadrug.us/wire

Please note that we do not carry controlled substances and a valid prescription is required for all prescription medication orders.

Use of these services is subject to the Terms of Use and accompanying policies at www.canadadrugcenter.com.

touch & take off!

Plus, enjoy speeds up to 45Mbps at one all-included price, with no extra monthly fees.

Internet plan starts at $

40.00

/ mo

Internet speeds up to 45Mbps Wi-Fi Gateway router to connect your devices

If your plans have you in town this month, you may want to circle May 18-20 on your calendar. ES Arts Group is presenting the seventh annual ARTundressed Festival. Celebrating art in its most creative, original, sensual and bared core, ARTundressed will showcase more than 120 international artists and performers in South Florida's most provocative art event. The nexus of nudity and human sensuality with artists in numerous forms will be explored, dramatically and comically, at this unique art festival. We explore the occasion with an interview of presenting artist, the acclaimed Noel, to discuss the festival and his role in it.

Also in this issue of Wire Magazine, travel writer Dane Steele Green offers advice for those who might want to experience an immersion in French culture without leaving North America, positing that Québec offers it all much closer to home; and in Top Trax, music columnist DJ FR8-0 explains how Russian artist Emin Araz oglu Agalarov is about to conquer America, starting with Miami.

Let’s definitely celebrate Pride around the world, but, more importantly, let’s continue to fight at home and abroad so everyone in our community can gain their full equal rights under the law, regardless of where they live.

Cheers,

Rafa Carvajal Publisher & Editor in Chief rafa@wiremag.com

“TOLERANCE OF INTOLERANCE ENABLES OPPRESSION.” - DASHANNE STOKES

6 WIREMAG.COM #19 2017

AT&T Internet Security Suite—powered by McAfee Bundle with another qualifying AT&T service and get internet for $30/mo.

Call today and pay less

877-613-9303

DIRECTV + Internet + Home Phone Bundles Starts at

$

89.99

/ mo

Over 145 of your favorite channels Internet speeds up to 45Mbps A Genie® HD DVR receiver and 3 additional TV receivers HD Included Phone - With over 25 convenient calling features

©2017 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo, and all other AT&T marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies.

Subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. provide products and services under the AT&T brand. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

FEATURE

By Michael W. Sasser Photos provided by Noel Suarez

ARTundressed

ART + SENSUALITY rom the very beginnings of man's foray into art, the sensual aspects of life, such as nudity and eroticism have been part and parcel of the artist's tools. Somewhere yet to be discovered is probably a cave with prehistoric stick figure drawings with an extra stick here or there. Since it is impossible to survey the human experience without the inclusion of such raw, personal perspectives, it only makes sense that nudity and eroticism would have long been planks with which our modern impressions of art would be constructed.

ARTundressed takes place at Private Key Club in Wynwood. For schedule and more information, visit www.artundressed.com.

"A TRUE ARTIST IS ALWAYS SEARCHING, ALWAYS LOOKING TO FEED THEIR HUNGER FOR CREATIVITY." - NOEL

8 WIREMAG.COM #19 2017

PHOTO CREDIT: Š DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM | KAVRAMM

During the weekend of May 18-20, ES Arts Group is presenting the seventh annual ARTundressed Festival. Celebrating art in its most creative, original, sensual and bared core, ARTundressed will showcase more than 120 international artists and performers in South Florida's most provocative art event. Curated by knowledgeable art experts the ARTundressed Festival displays both the humorous and the sensual aspects of creative nude art, and also features performance art, chic fashion, live music and cutting edge visuals.

HEALTH

AND

SEX BELONG TOGETHER

Healthysexuals

COORDINATE

Get tested together. And stay in sync.

VISIT AND TALK TO A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

HEALTHYSEXUAL, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc. © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. UNBC3910 01/17

Wire Magazine sat down with presenting artist, the acclaimed Noel to discuss the creative nude art festival and his role in it.

MWS: How did you first become familiar with ARTundressed?

NS: Fritz Romeus and I have known each other for several years, back when South Beach was a small creative heaven for amazing talented people. Fritz always liked my art because it focused on the human body and sensuality, which is a very important part of my work. Once he created and started doing ARTundressed, he asked me several times to be part of it, but due to my schedule I was able to be part of it only twice... and now.

MWS: What prompted your interest in participating in ARTundressed?

NS: Fritz and I have been talking for a while about doing a painting created specially for ARTundressed, and since the event takes place in Miami he felt that this would be the perfect time for me to create a painting that represents the event... for which I'm very pleased!

MWS: What is it about your work that you believe "fit" with the themes and parameters of ARTundressed?

NS: The beauty of the human body, movement, sensuality and total freedom of creative expression.

MWS: Tell our readers about the piece you created to represent ARTundressed 2017.

NS: This painting is a new version of one that I did in 1991 titled "The Birth," so for 26 years, I've been thinking about re-creating this piece. Once Fritz told me that I was the presenting artist for ARTundressed 2017, there was only one choice, "The Birth II."

"‌ THE HUMAN BODY IS ONE OF THE WORLD'S BEST AND MOST BEAUTIFUL CREATIONS, AND THAT THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING WRONG WITH APPRECIATING IT, CELEBRATING IT, ADMIRING IT, LISTENING TO IT AND MORE IMPORTANTLY... GETTING TO KNOW IT TO ITS ABSOLUTE TOTALITY!" - NOEL

MWS: What are your expectations for ARTundressed?

NS: I learned long time ago that expecting anything is the number one ingredient for disappointments! With that said, being part of ARTundressed several times before as an exhibiting artist and guest, regardless of any expectations, it will be an amazing creative and discovering experience... particularly for those attending for the first time.

MWS: What do you hope guests experience viewing the totality of this show?

NS: For the attending guests to understand that the human body is one of the world's best and most beautiful creations, and that there is absolutely nothing wrong with appreciating it, celebrating it, admiring it, listening to it and more importantly... getting to know it to its absolute totality!

MWS: How would you characterize your own artistic style?

NS: Unique, different, Noel. A true artist is always searching, always looking to feed their hunger for creativity. Of course this takes time, but it is within this time that our research in an almost subconscious way creates the unique artistic language of an artist.

MWS: Who were the greatest influences on or inspirations for your career?

NS: My family was my biggest influence. I grew up in a family of artists! My style is a mĂŠlange of styles as a result of my research and studies.

Starting with the classical figurative masters, then art deco, cubism and of course my life in the theater as a ballet dancer from the age of five to 30... thus my obsession with the human body!

10 WIREMAG.COM #19 2017

MWS: What is Noel working on now?

NS: What am I not working on now! I'm always working, and loving it! For the past four years, I've been part of Oceania's Artist in Residence program. Whenever I'm not traveling the world with Oceania, I'm working on new collections or doing exhibits and events within the U.S. as well as other countries. I just introduced my new bronze sculpture limited edition, "The Dancer II," and two new collections: "Siluetas" and "Lost in Motion." Also, I'm introducing my new collection of beautiful tops and scarves. This is a collaboration with Eliott Prada from "La Isla," a wonderful jewel in Little Havana. Eliott is another great artist and we are re-creating very popular images of my work into a medium that brings fashion art to a whole new level. There is a new label coming up soon, look for it... "Noel by La Isla." I can't wait to unveil this collection!

MWS: How would you characterize the visual arts scene in South Florida today as compared to earlier years of your career?

NS: The Miami where I started (circa 1987) with an amazing group of super talented artists, art supporters and people that were creating very unique happenings (particularly in Miami Beach) was very different from the Miami of today. Although Miami has become an international art mecca and it comes across this way to the world, from the inside it is a total different story. It is quite interesting and the details will take an entirely different Wire Magazine interview, ha-ha! Regardless, the opportunities are out there and they are endless, particularly with today's amazing digital world!

MWS: Is there anything else you would like to share with Wire Magazine readers?

NS: Yes... please support the arts and artists! All MWS: What advice would you offer to aspiring it takes is to get out there and check what they are creating. Even if you can't buy it, talk about young artists?

NS: Don't ever give up! Stick to your passion it and post it on all social media. See you May (keyword passion) and beliefs, they will lead 18 at the opening vernissage of ARTundressed you to the next level. With that said and par- 2017! ticularly in your first 3-5 years, remember that you don't know it all and the most important constructive criticism could come from those you least expected! Everybody's feedback is key for your creativity to evolve!

ARTundressed takes place at Private Key Club in Wynwood. For schedule and more information, visit www.artundressed.com.

12 WIREMAG.COM #19 2017

touch & take off!

Plus, enjoy speeds up to 45Mbps at one all-included price, with no extra monthly fees.

Internet plan starts at $

40.00

/ mo

Internet speeds up to 45Mbps Wi-Fi Gateway router to connect your devices AT&T Internet Security Suite—powered by McAfee Bundle with another qualifying AT&T service and get internet for $30/mo.

Call today and pay less

877-613-9303

DIRECTV + Internet + Home Phone Bundles Starts at

$

89.99

/ mo

Over 145 of your favorite channels Internet speeds up to 45Mbps A Genie® HD DVR receiver and 3 additional TV receiver HD Included Phone - With over 25 convenient calling features

©2017 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo, and all other AT&T marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. Subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. provide products and services under the AT&T brand. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Pride Around the World LET'S CELEBRATE!

By Michael W. Sasser

f there was a unifying theme for Pride events around the globe this summer, it would be activism. Since the beginning of the movement after Stonewall, of course, activism has been a key driver of Pride celebrations in the United States. As other nations developed more welcoming cultures and public policy, international Prides developed similarly on their own timeline. Still, massive street parties and colorful parades are probably the most recognizable aspects of Pride around the world.

Whether one is traveling to East Coast Pride events this summer or to events in some of the far-flung parts of the world, there is more on the menu this year than just fabulous parties and parades. A global community has taken a look at the landscape and found essential human rights lacking. This year, the community once again stands up in unison to be heard.

Enjoy your travels and Happy Pride, wherever you celebrate.

"WHEN ALL AMERICANS ARE TREATED AS EQUAL, NO MATTER WHO THEY ARE OR WHOM THEY LOVE, WE ARE ALL MORE FREE." - BARACK OBAMA

14 WIREMAG.COM #19 2017

PHOTO CREDIT: Š DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM | NITO103

This year, however, it appears social consciousness abounds. Perhaps in reaction to conservative backlash in the U.S. and Western Europe, such Pride events as that in L.A. are promoting human rights events. In Paris, details for Pride were being withheld until the results of the national election were known. While many in the U.S. fear a rollback of protections will suddenly manifest, gays and lesbians in other countries face real threats, such as summary execution in the Middle East and harassment and worse in Russia and Cuba. The Zurich Pride Festival wants to draw attention to the situation of LGBTQ refugees, a population little addressed historically.

ANTWERP August 9-13 www.antwerppride.eu Antwerp, one of the most open and tolerant cities in the world when it comes to LGBTQ people and issues, celebrates Pride in style this summer. Despite being a relatively small city on the global scale at about 600,000, it has a vibrant community and long weekend of intense Pride events. Its numerous bars, clubs, shops and venues are all on display for the occasion, including the wellknown Red & Blue nightclub, cruising bar The Boots and more. A wide range of activities are planned for Pride each year. Antwerp Pride is organized by a board of volunteers. Their goal is to unite social work and business in order to present Antwerp as the city of diversity with a rich gay scene.

Photo by Tjap Pintoe. Courtesy of Antwerp Pride

BERLIN July 22 www.csd-berlin.de CSD Berlin (Christopher Street Day) is one of the biggest gay Prides in Europe, with hundreds of thousands participants each year. In 2017, the parade takes place at Kurfürstendamm on Saturday, July 22, a week after the Lesbian & Gay Stadtfest. Pride celebrations and the parade continue to campaign for equal rights and samesex marriage. But you'll find plenty of street festivals and dance parties across Berlin. Known by locals as CSD Berlin (Christopher Street Day), and by others of as Gay Pride Berlin, the festivities are now spread over a week and offer around 200 events. Berlin's Pride offers one of the most eclectic pride celebrations in Europe. Events include shows, exhibitions, lectures, films, concerts and plenty of partying. The motto of the Berlin CSD 2017 has been fixed since the beginning of February: "More of us – every voice against right!"

Photo credit: © depositphotos.com | mSzandurski

BRIGHTON & HOVE August 4-6 www.brighton-pride.org Brighton Pride celebrates the landmark 50th anniversary of the decriminalization of homosexuality in England and Wales with a life affirming Carnival Of Diversity and spectacular weekend long Pride Festival. The Brighton Pride Festival at Preston Park on Saturday, August 5, 2017 is a glittering and truly inclusive community celebration that delivers an unforgettable day of Pride.

A unique community fundraising event, the Brighton Pride Festival has enjoyed amazing performances from international stars including Sister Sledge, Carly Rae Jepsen, Fatboy Slim, The Human League, Fleur East, Alesha Dixon, Ella Henderson, Boy George, Alison Moyet, Paloma Faith, and Ms Dynamite amongst others.

Photo by Chris Jepson. www.chrisjepson.com. Courtesy of Brighton & Hove Pride

#19 2017 WIREMAG.COM 15

DUBLIN June 18-24 www.dublinpride.ie The 2017 Dublin LGBTQ Pride Parade, the occasion's centerpiece, will take place on Saturday June 24. While festival specifics won't be announced until this summer, the Pride Parade is always a highlight of the annual festival. It is an opportunity to march in solidarity and hear supportive voices combined. Admission to the Pride Parade is free for individuals and community groups that support the ideals and principles of Pride, though registration is required for all groups taking part.

"I THINK BEING GAY IS A BLESSING, AND IT'S SOMETHING I AM THANKFUL FOR EVERY SINGLE DAY." - ANDERSON COOPER

KEY WEST June 7-11 www.keywestpride.org Pageants, a cocktail competition and a parade featuring a segment of a 1.25-mile-long rainbow flag are among the attractions for visitors to Key West Pride 2017. The 2017 schedule features pool parties, nightly drag shows and aquatic adventures including snorkeling, kayaking and sunset sails. Activities also include curator-led tours of an exhibit chronicling legendary playwright Tennessee Williams' decades on the island, a pride-themed street fair on famed Duval Street, a one-ofa-kind trolley tour documenting the LGBTQ community's impact on Key West history and culture, a burlesque show with an LGBTQ flair and a lively brunch served with a drag show on the side. Contests bring excitement to the five-day festival, including pageants to select Mr. and Miss Key West Pride.

Photo by Peter Arnow. Courtesy of Key West Pride

LONDON June 24 - July 9 www.prideinlondon.org Last year, London experienced its biggest Pride ever! More than 40,000 people joined the Pride in London parade and as many as a million people took to the streets to celebrate, make their voices heard, and be a part of something special. Organizers anticipate an even bigger event this year. Pride in London's theme for the 2017 campaign is 'Love Happens Here.' Marking 50 years since Parliament first voted to legalize homosexuality in the UK, Pride in London will be marching with a message of hope, acceptance, activism and love. June will see a packed schedule of events leading up to the celebration.

Photo by Mark Nortcliff. Courtesy of London Pride

LOS ANGELES June 10-11 www.lapride.org

Photo by Chris Tuite. Courtesy of LA Pride

16 WIREMAG.COM #19 2017

Now in its 47th year, Christopher Street West (CSW) will continue to host the inclusive LA Pride Festival on Saturday, June 10 and Sunday, June 11 – a weekend-long event with live music, activations, and food and drink from local eateries. Past performances have included Ke$ha, Jennifer Hudson, Krewella, Fifth Harmony, Charlie XCX, Tinashe, Daya, Danity Kane, Carly Rae Jepsen, and Ciara. The most noticeable change to this year's programming is the #ResistMarch on Sunday, June 11. For this year only, in place of the annual LA Pride Parade, CSW will lead a human rights march starting in Hollywood – where CSW organized the world's first permitted gay rights march in 1970 – and ending in West Hollywood. Additionally, in the lead up to the LA Pride Festival and #ResistMarch, CSW plans to host a number of events throughout "Pride Week," helping to amplify the City of West Hollywood's "One City, One Pride" community initiative.

MADRID June 23 - July 2 www.madridorgullo.com In Madrid, Madrid Pride, or MADO, is a series of street celebrations that take place during the city's LGBTQ Pride Week. Outdoor concerts, parties, expositions, culture and sports make up the whole of MADO. Madrid Pride has been for years the largest urban event celebrated in Europe because it brings over two million people together in the main streets and squares of the city. The performances take place in Plaza de Chueca, a symbol of freedom and LGBTQ rights that offers concerts and other activities for all kinds of audiences. On Saturday, July 1, 2017, the Pride Parade will travel along Paseo del Prado, one of Madrid's main streets. This is the climax of the World Pride festival. It takes place in the center of Madrid, starting at Atocha Station and ending in Plaza de Colón. Participating will be some 40 floats from different companies, associations, political parties, etc. The parade culminates at the Plaza de Colón where a stage will welcome all the participants with music and the reading of the manifesto of freedom, inclusion and diversity.

Photo credit: © depositphotos.com | demidoff

MONTRÉAL August 10-20 www.fiertemontrealpride.com From August 10-20, Montréal will be the host city for Canada Pride Montréal 2017, a special nation-wide edition of Montréal Pride. For the occasion, a new outdoor site will be inaugurated at Parc des Faubourgs with four times the capacity of Place Émilie-Gamelin, the festival's primary venue in past years which will continue to play a major role during this year's festivities. Canadian singer Nelly Furtado will headline the festival this summer. Furtado will give a 90-minute performance on Friday, August 18, 2017 at 9 p.m. on the TD stage in Parc des Faubourgs. In addition to the rollout of daily shows, Canada Pride Montréal 2017 will also host two human rights conferences – a three-day national conference and a one-day international conference highlighting issues in the Francophonie – as well as a sports tournament, a Community day and the traditional Pride Parade.

Photos by André Bilodeau. Courtesy of Montréal Pride

NEW YORK CITY June 16-25 www.nycpride.org The city where the movement began celebrates Pride this year with the theme 'We Are Proud.' This year's roster will include the March, Rally, PrideFest, OutCinema, Teaze and a new multi-day cultural experience on Pier 26. Sure to be one of the biggest draws will be LeAnn Rimes, who will take center stage at NYC Pride's annual LGBTQ street festival on Sunday, June 25. Located at Hudson Street between Abingdon Square and West 14th Street, PrideFest welcomes more than 350,000 local residents and visitors from across the country and world, combined with local business owners, LGBTQ-serving non-profits, corporate sponsors, community leaders, and friends of all ages.

Photo by Charles Roussel. Courtesy of NYC Pride

#19 2017 WIREMAG.COM 17

OSLO June 23 - July 2 www.oslopride.no Norway's largest festival for the lesbian and gay population takes place in Oslo, with concerts, art exhibits, shows, film screenings, parties and political debates. The Pride Park festival area in the city center is free to enter for everyone! Oslo Pride consists of more than 150 small and large events over the course of 10 days. Oslo Gay Pride's aim is to make gay culture visible and contribute to increased acceptance and respect for the gay part of the capital's diverse population. The event was first established as "Gay Days" in 1982 and got its current name in 2014.

Photo by Petter Ruud-Johansen. Courtesy of Oslo Pride

PARIS June 24 www.gaypride.fr Paris Gay Pride (or the "Marche des Fiertés" in French) has steadily grown in popularity over the years to become one of the city's most-anticipated annual festivals, drawing tens, and sometimes hundreds, of thousands of people into the streets of Paris every summer, for a colorful street party celebrating diversity. More than just a carnival-like festival, it's also served as an important platform for supporting full civil rights for LGBTQ people, in France and around the world.

Local politicians and celebrities are known to join the procession, and it's a bit like Carnival: colorful and willfully over-the-top, full of music, dancing, creative drag and floats. Most details of Pride in Paris weren't announced until after the national election.

Photo credit: © depositphotos.com | KovalenkovPetr

SAN FRANCISCO June 24-25 www.sfpride.org

Photo credit: © depositphotos.com | kobbydagan

The 2017 San Francisco Pride Celebration & Parade is scheduled for the weekend of June 24-25 in the heart of citywide events commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Summer of Love. The theme for this year's Pride event is A Celebration of Diversity. The San Francisco Pride Parade/March will take place in downtown San Francisco on Sunday, June 25, along Market Street. The Celebration, a rally and festival at Civic Center Plaza in San Francisco, will take place on Saturday and Sunday, June 24-25. The Celebration features keynote speakers addressing pressing issues facing LGBTQ communities; along with performances, live entertainment, and more than twenty community-produced stages and venues.

SITGES June 8-12 www.gaysitgespride.com

"THE BEAUTY OF STANDING UP FOR YOUR RIGHTS IS OTHERS SEE YOU STANDING AND STAND UP AS WELL."

This year the Sitges Gay Pride, June 8-12, 2017, brings together all participants to enjoy a great atmosphere, activities and fun as never before. Sitges is celebrating its eighth anniversary and wants to celebrate it in the best way possible with the main bar of the Gay Village open uninterruptedly the five days that this event lasts for a meeting point where you can come together with thousands of people and enjoy the best party in the entire Golden Coast. All this surrounded by the best environment where diversity is the hallmark, plus some of the best beaches on the Catalan coast.

- CASSANDRA DUFFY

18 WIREMAG.COM #19 2017

Photo credit: © depositphotos.com | digoarpi

SWEDEN June 7-11 www.westpride.se Don't miss the chance to see the city of Gothenburg covered in Pride colors for two weeks, securing its reputation as one of the most LGBTQ-welcoming cities in the world. West Pride, Gothenburg's LGBTQ culture festival, is a unique fun-filled event, free of charge, which takes place on June 7-11 – the most beautiful time of the year.

The program consists of about 260 activities, where 30 are in English. On Saturday June 10, it's time for the big Rainbow Parade with more than 15,000 participants and some 25,000 people lining the streets. A major part of the program has not yet been made official.

TORONTO June 23-25 www.pridetoronto.com One of North America's leading gay destinations, Toronto has been holding Pride observances since the '70s, and events have been held annually there since 1981. These days, Toronto Pride's most prominent event, the Pride Parade draws more than 1.2 million spectators and participants annually, making it one of the top such draws in the world. The key Toronto Gay Pride events generally take place in the city's Church Street area, around the intersection with Wellesley Street – a neighborhood also known as the Gay Village.

Photo by Scott Corman. Courtesy of Toronto Pride

Photo credit: © depositphotos.com | ademyan

VIENNA June 9-18 www.viennapride.at Vienna Pride 2017 will be the longest that Vienna has ever seen. The highlight is the Rainbow Parade, which will take place on June 17 on the Ringstrasse Boulevard.

Vienna Pride will last a whole 10 days this year. For these 10 days, Vienna will be the center of gay and lesbian Austria. Numerous parties, art and information events, live performances and of course the Rainbow Parade will turn up the heat in Vienna and make a visible statement for the acceptance of homosexuals and against their exclusion. The focal point of the activities will once again be the Pride Village, which will be erected from June 14-17 against the beautiful backdrop of City Hall. What's more, the Vienna Fetish Spring will also take place from June 14-18, 2017.

ZÜRICH June 9-10 http://zurichpridefestival.ch Under the motto "No Fear To Be You" the Zürich Pride Festival wants to draw attention to the situation of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) refugees.

While Zürich's Pride consists of scores of demonstrations, resource booths, bars and entertainment, the focus remains squarely on advancing its human rights agenda and raising awareness of and support for the community efforts. #19 2017 WIREMAG.COM 19

TOP TRAX

By DJ FR8-O

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE :

MEET AMERICA'S SMOOTHEST IMPORT ooks like Stoli is about to have some stiff competition. After a decade of churning out hits, selling out live shows and amassing international music awards in the land where vodka was born, Emin Araz oglu Agalarov (we'll just call him Emin) is about to do what no other Russian male singer has done before – become America's newest pop star – and he's starting with Miami.

The years that followed were a whirlwind of concerts throughout Europe, performing at the Miss Universe Pageant in Moscow, winning a Russian Grammy and a World Music Award for "Best Artist (Azerbaijan)," and of course more albums. British hitmaker, Ash Howes (Kylie Minogue, Ellie Goulding, Jennifer Hudson, Annie Lennox), songwriters Rob Davis (Kylie's "Can't Get You Out of My Head"), Jamie Scott (One Direction's "Story of My Life") and Wayne Hector (Britney Spears, Olly Murs, The Pussycat Dolls) are just a few of the major music players that 37-year-old Emin has had the privilege to

share the studio with. For last year's hit single, "Boomerang," he teamed up with multi-Grammy award winning music legend Nile Rodgers. The track made the top 40 on UK's Music Week's chart while the remix reached No. 9 on Billboard's dance charts in the U.S., opening the doors for his next adventure – conquering the U.S. Bubbling over with lush covers and original songs, Love is a Deadly Game is Emin's official U.S. debut, which fuses jazz, pop, Latin, big band and classical elements. This time around, the charismatic crooner enlisted the industry's hottest producers, including Fraser T Smith (Adele, Sam Smith, Britney, Ellie Goulding), John Shanks (Take That, Jon Bon Jovi) & David Foster (Madonna, Michael Bublé, Jennifer Lopez, Rod Stewart). While most of this collection is dominated by ballads, there are moments like the Sinatra classic "Mack the Knife" and the Latin-infused "Creative" where Emin loosens up his bowtie and has a little fun.

As inspired as these tracks sound through my headphones, I have a feeling nothing can compare to hearing them performed live. Well, America will finally get its chance as Emin launches his 5-stop U.S. tour, starting with Miami's Faena Theater on May 18-19. The show will feature tracks from Love is a Deadly Game as well as a decade of Emin's international hits in English and Russian. Nastrovia!

If you're a recording artist, producer or musician and would like your work featured in TOP TRAX, hit me up at abarrios@wiremag.com.

20 WIREMAG.COM #19 2017

PHOTO CREDIT: © DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM | KAVRAMM

He's been called the "Russian Ricky Martin" by the Today Show, but Emin's journey took him on a much different path. Born in Baku, Azerbaijan, he was only four when his family moved to Russia, then eventually relocated to America's East Coast. That's when he first fell in love with American music and began to write songs, sing, and learned how to play the guitar and the piano. It was in high school where his passion for music evolved into more than just a hobby, when he recorded his first full Russian album at just 17 years old. He released his first English language album, Still, just a few years later, and many more albums followed; almost one per year. However, 2010 marked a pivotal milestone for Emin. That was the year he moved to London to work with internationally acclaimed producer Brian Rawling (David Bowie, Cher and Kylie Minogue). After its release, their collaboration Wonder was crowned "Album of the Week" by BBC Radio 2 and earned Emin the commercial attention he'd been working so hard for.

FREE YOURSELF F R O M BA D C RE D I T

The FTC suggests that over 10 million consumers have errors on their credit reports. You might be at risk!

Remove negative items from your report* More than 92% of our clients see positive results within the first 90 days!* Get the credit score you deserve!

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY

800-682-9609

*Client results vary. There is no guarantee that your results will match those above.

We count a single removal from all three bureaus as 3 removals.

DESTINATIONS

By Dane Steele Green

QUÉBEC

PHOTO CREDIT: © DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM | ZIMMYTWS

LE BEAU NORD

o you're a Francophile. The boys! The food! The... no, that's it.

Oh, well, yeah – Paris and all that. But there's this thing about Paris. And Marseille. And Bordeaux. And the Loire Valley.

Can you say "sticker shock?" No offense to France, or to the rest of the Eurozone, but Europe is one expensive continent. Sucks for boy/food-crazy Francophones on a budget, right? No, as it turns out: What America tends to forget is that France 2.0 is right next door. It's called Québec.

Montréal, Québec City, and maybe a few you haven't heard of like Rimouski or Drummondville, are very, very (and very) proud of their Frenchness, and the culture of the whole province is decidedly different from the Native and English-speaking parts of the country. Montréal and Québec City are laid out in the French style, and as history goes,

are some of the oldest European settlements in North America; Québec City popped into existence in 1608, and most of its city-center is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Even better, the strong U.S. dollar overpowers the weaker Canadian dollar; you make money just by showing up. You can indulge in your francophilia and still not break the bank! As it is, the whole province of Québec is pushing itself hard as a destination.

From an LGBTQ perspective, Montréal wins, hands down. Its clubs, along with the prerequisite restaurants, etc., are world class. Québec City, despite being the older, more dignified sibling, is a little more for the rough-n-ready crowd into sports (but has a gay scene all its own, thank you very much). That western section of the province between the St. Lawrence River and the U.S. border is particularly well-known for its win-

eries. Over in the east, the Gaspésie Peninsula, basically the entire southern shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, is even more butch than Québec City. I'm talking winter safari territory, and that includes whale watching.

The province also has a very strong Native presence, and it's something to check out if you want to give your vacation a little more of a cultural spine. It's tough to sum up a territory larger than Texas into a 450-word article, but the gist here is that there is something for everyone, and it will be in French.

And for all those folks who want to experience French culture but cannot, in fact, speak French, have no fear. This is still Canada, and you would be hard-pressed to find Québecois that can't speak English.

Visit www.quebecoriginal.com/en-us/discover for more information.

Steele Luxury Travel can assist you with all your travel plans. www.SteeleTravel.com 22 WIREMAG.COM #19 2017

G

HILTON WOLMAN'S SA

PHOTOS BY J. WWW.WIREMAG.R.CDAOMVIS/P

HOTOS

AYTHERIN HPHOOTOSPPBYYJ.RH. DAOVISUR AS T HÔTEL G

LVATION 6 DE MAYO AT SC

TO WWW.WIREMAG.COM/PHO

ORE

SIGN UP! WIREMAG.COM/SIGNUP

WIREMAG.COM/GOINGOUT NIGHTLIFE AND ENTERTAINMENT THURSDAY, MAY 11

$6 Gordon Gingers and $7 Hunnie Bunnies. Then join Bears & Hares at 10 p.m. The animal house is open, welcoming bears & hares… and all other creatures.

HÔTEL GAYTHERING: Hoppy

"On Fridays we wear flannel."

Hour 5-9 p.m. with $5 well drinks.

At 9 p.m., get ready for Throw- MIAMI BEACH CINEMATHEQUE: back Thursday #TBT with $3 local At 6:45 p.m. and 9 p.m., Miami craft beers and $7 Alexander Bea- Premiere Engagement: Graduaverhausens. At 7 p.m., join in for

tion by Cristian Mungiu. For info,

inner space yoga. Donations are visit www.mbcinema.com. encouraged. #YoGay! Locals can enjoy savings with a complimentary

SCORE: Athena Dion in associ-

membership! Sign up in person, or

ation with Score present The Lab

visit www.gaythering.com. 1409

Lounge: Mommy Dearest. Music

Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach

by DJ Yazz Burrell. Open bar 1111:30 p.m. and no cover for FL ID

MIAMI BEACH CINEMATHEQUE: Holders. Shows by The Lab Rats.

At 6:45 p.m. and 9 p.m., Miami Plus, Marco Perez and his hot Premiere Engagement: Gradua-

male dancers. 1437 Washington

tion by Cristian Mungiu. For info,

Ave., Miami Beach

visit www.mbcinema.com. 1130

Giveaways Contests Event & Show Tickets

Washington Ave., Miami Beach

THE MANOR: Bubble Gum Fridays. Viva Vegas. Music in the

TWIST: Sabroso Thursdays! 10

Ballroom with DJ JPS. Ultra Lounge

p.m. - 5 a.m. 2-4-1 drinks until with DJ Miik. $150 VIP room 3 a.m. on everything. Music by bottle special. No cover before DJ Adora & DJ Mika. Stiff drinks midnight., 21+ for FL Residents; and beautiful dancers. "Never a

after midnight, 21+ members $7,

cover... Always a groove." 1057

non-members $10; $12 all night

Washington Ave., Miami Beach

for under 21. For more info, visit

www.themanorcomplex.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 12

2345 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors

HÔTEL GAYTHERING: Hoppy

TWIST: Always Packed Fridays

Hour 5-9 p.m. with $5 well drinks.

with DJ Sushiman. 2-4-1 Happy

CALENDAR CALENDAR OF EVENTS OFMARCH - APRIL EVENTS26MAY 11-172 Hour, 1-9 p.m. on everything. "Never a cover… Always a groove."

Call Now: 888-233-5843

Their Price

$

CrestorTM

Are You Still Paying Too Much For Your Medications?

870.10 Typical US Brand Price

for 40mg x 100

Our Price

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Rosuvastatin* $

You can save up to 97% when you fill your prescriptions with our Canadian and International prescription service.

141

Generic equivalent of CrestorTM Generic price for for 40mg x 100

$

ViagraTM

2011.91

Typical US Brand Price for 100mg x 40

HÔTEL GAYTHERING: Hoppy Hour 5-9 p.m. with $5 well drinks.

Enjoy $3 Peroni beers.

vs Sildenafil*

139.00

$

Generic Price for 100mg x 40

Get An Extra $15 Off & Free Shipping On Your 1st Order!

Call the number below and save an additional $15 plus get free shipping on your first prescription order with Canada Drug Center. Expires June 30, 2017. Offer is valid for prescription orders only and can not be used in conjunction with any other offers. Valid for new customers only. One time use per household. Use code 15FREE to receive this special offer.

Get an extra

$15 off

plus FREE SHIPPING

Toll-free: 888-233-5843 www.canadadrug.us/wire

Please note that we do not carry controlled substances and a valid prescription is required for all prescription medication orders.

Use of these services is subject to the Terms of Use and accompanying policies at www.canadadrugcenter.com.

LIV: LIV presents Laidback Luke. For info, visit www.livnightclub.com.

touch & take off!

4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach Plus, enjoy speeds up to 45Mbps at one all-included price, with no extra monthly fees.

Internet plan starts at $

40.00

/ mo

SCORE: Bigger Saturdays presents

Internet speeds up to 45Mbps Wi-Fi Gateway router to connect your devices

Hercules with music by DJ Hansell

AT&T Internet Security Suite—powered by McAfee Bundle with another qualifying AT&T service and get internet for $30/mo.

Call today and pay less

Leyva.

Bundles Starts at

$

89.99

/ mo

11 p.m. For more information, visit www.clubspace.com. 34 NE 11th St., Miami

Over 145 of your favorite channels Internet speeds up to 45Mbps A Genie® HD DVR receiver and 3 additional TV receivers HD Included

SPACE: Link Miami Rebels presents Wolf + Lamb vs. Soul Clap.

877-613-9303

DIRECTV + Internet + Home Phone

Phone - With over 25 convenient calling features ©2017 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo, and all other AT&T marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies.

Subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. provide products and services under the AT&T brand. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SUNDAY, MAY 14

HÔTEL

GAYTHERING: 10:30

a.m., join in for Gaythering Beach THE MANOR: Official OMW DJ

Volleyball at Lummus Park (12th

Tour Event. DJ Guy Scheiman. 18 St. & Ocean Dr.). At 2 p.m., head & over. No cover before midnight, back to the Hôtel for a barbecue in 21+ for FL Residents; after midnight

the courtyard with complimentary

21+ members $7, non-members

burgers, veggie burgers & hot

$10; $12 all night for under 21. dogs while they last. Hoppy Hour $3 well drinks 11 p.m. - midnight. 5-9 p.m. with $5 Well Drinks. En$150 VIP room bottle special.

joy $3 Heinekens all night.

TWIST: Muscle Boy Saturdays

SCORE: Dustin Reffca & Score

with DJ Mika. 10 p.m. - 5 a.m. 2-41 Happy Hour 1-9 p.m. on everything. "Never a cover… Always a groove."

present Electric Sheep Sundays.

10 p.m. Sunday nights are back with special performances. $6 drink specials and $4 Becks.

WIREMAG.COM/GOINGOUT

CALENDAR OF EVENTS MAY 11-17

TWIST: 2-4-1 Happy Hour 1-9

Sounds by DJ Josh Riptide. "Never

TWIST: 2-4-1 Happy Hour 1-9

TWIST: Getting Fresh with TP

p.m. on everything. Steamy Sun-

a cover… Always a groove."

p.m. on everything. Globoy Tues-

Lords, featuring Josefina La Glo-

days with beats by DJ Carlos

bos and sounds by DJ Sushiman.

G. "Never a cover… Always a

Showtime 1 a.m. "Never a cov-

groove."

er… Always a groove."

days in the Garden Bar. Pussila's TUESDAY, MAY 16

Underwear Contest: winner gets $100 bar tab. Music by DJ Paulie. "Never a cover... Always a

HÔTEL GAYTHERING: Hoppy

groove."

Hour 5-9 p.m. with $5 well drinks.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17

Enjoy $6 Rekorderlig ciders. At 7 MONDAY, MAY 15

HÔTEL GAYTHERING: Hoppy

p.m., join in for inner space yoga.

HÔTEL GAYTHERING: Hoppy

Donations are encouraged. #Yo-

Hour 5-9 p.m. with $5 well drinks.

Gay!

Join in for Trivia/Gayme night

Hour 5-9 p.m. with $5 well drinks.

with $3 PBRs and $7 Absolut fla-

Enjoy $5 house margaritas all

SCORE: Planeta Macho hosted by

vors. 8 p.m. - midnight. Winner

night long.

Lola Lotus and Marco Perez with

receives $50 off bar tab.

his hot male dancers. Music by DJ TWIST: 2-4-1 Happy Hour 1-9

Yazz Burrell. $6 Rum & Coke, $4

p.m. on everything. At night, VJ

Modelo Especial and $100 vodka

Nathan presents: Pop! Mondays.

bottle special.

SIGN UP! WIREMAG.COM/SIGNUP

Giveaways Contests Event & Show Tickets

60 MINUTES FREE TRIAL

THE HOTTEST GAY CHATLINE

1-800-395-4540 Ahora en Español/18+

Attention: VIAGRA & CIALIS Users There’s a More Affordable & Effective Alternative to U.S. Pharmacy High Prices!

50 Pill Special:

Only $99 Plus Free Shipping!

For discreet home delivery, CALL NOW!

800-368-3022 Operators Available 24/7!

Our Family – Proudly Caring For Yours Our commitment to families in our community is unwavering. We’ve been consistently recognized as a “Leader in LGBTQ Healthcare Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation.

Learn more at LGBTQHealthLeader.org.

Jackson Memorial Hospital • Jackson North Medical Center • Jackson South Community Hospital Holtz Children’s Hospital • Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital • Jackson Rehabilitation Hospital