Wire Magazine Issue #07, 2011: Fortitude Weekend

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ISSUE #07 | 02/17/11

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ALL WIRED UP

BY THOMAS BARKER

TWISTED CIRCUS CONSUMES TWIST THIS FRIDAY NIGHT! As one of South Beach’s original gay hot spots, I would like to dedicate this week’s column to one of my favorite rabbit holes, TWIST. This Friday, the boys of TWIST will be launching a new annual event they have dubbed TWISTed Circus.

After 20 years of throwing the Warsaw Reunion Party, TWIST has decided to take the annual event to a different level by incorporating a modern day TWISTed Circus that features acrobats, over the top performances, and clowns, clowns, clowns…

Let’s just hope no one suffers from coulrophobia!

I sat down with TWIST partner, Joel Stedman to learn more about his crazy circus and what we can expect this Friday night!

Check it out!

What is the concept of Circus?

TWISTed circus will be just that, a very twisted experience.

TWIST’s take on the Circus will be a little more hardcore than say Ringling Brothers! We have horror clowns, happy clowns, and very naughty clowns. We'll have boys on stilts, jugglers, and an assortment of other questionable characters. We have a tremendous amount of people involved in this production and I know everyone is going to have an amazing time.

Why Circus?

Circus is a theme that both Richard and Peter wanted to take

on for a long time. It just seemed with the economy getting a little better, people were looking to have a little more fun and get a little silly. And what's sillier than a circus? The bartenders and whole staff have really dug into this concept with some pretty outrageous costumes for the evening.

I understand that this is kind of like your famous Warsaw party reinvented. Is that true? Why did you feel the need to reinvent?

Well the party concept and execution have changed very little. We decided to not use the Warsaw name simply because we had done the 20th anniversary last year, and we thought maybe it was time to give it a rest. When the Warsaw party at TWIST started eight years ago, it was really dreamt up as a reunion party from the club and era.

We had staff that had worked at Warsaw, Richard and I were loyal patrons, and Peter had performed there. As the years have gone by, our staff is no longer from that era and really the party has become an event more about today and this generation of partygoers. This has been our longest running, most successful party and I really wanted the Warsaw party of it to end on a high note. This year's line up is really going to be spectacular.

Can you fill me in on who the performers are and what they will be doing?

Well I won’t divulge all the surprises, but we do have an entire cast of professionally trained circus performers that are really looking forward to twisting their unusual performances in some really clever ways.

COVER PHOTO BY: JORGE FREIRE MODEL: IAN DAVIAU

What can people expect at this party?

Absolute mayhem. The lobby will be out on control. We'll have shows on every stage and every corner of the club.

Why do you think DJ David Padilla is the perfect fit for this event?

He brings a whole different vibe into TWIST. He is one of the only DJs that still spin on vinyl, which gives the music a lot more depth than the typical downloads today. He brings in his own bass system that literally shakes the room and you on the dance floor. It is also his birthday that night, so go up and give him a big birthday hug. He really is a great guy!

Every week it seems you have some A-Listers partying it up at TWIST. Has TWIST become the hottest new spot for celebrities to get wild?

It’s the craziest thing. We’ve had a lot of celebrities stopping by lately from Katy Perry to Jennifer Coolidge, so you never know who may be working it out on the dance floor next to you or sipping on a cocktail in the VIP area.

Which annual events do you have coming up that we should all be looking forward to?

Our next big event will be the Winter Music Conference week, which will have our best line up ever of entertainment.

I think everyone will really be surprised by who may show up. After that, I'm sure it will be time to get a little native with our outrageous Jungle Party and naughty with the Fetish Party.

WIRE STAFF CEO/PUBLISHER: rafa carvajal EXECUTIVE EDITOR/PUBLISHER: thomas barker DESIGN DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION: jose gonzalez/true ink designs l.l.c.

COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: alfredo barrios james cubby gregg pizzi michael sasser

PHOTOGRAPHERS + ILLUSTRATORS: john anthony sutton | image1stmiami.com juan saco mironoff | miami-gay-blog.com dale stine | dalestine.com henry perez | henry1dj@bellsouth.net rob davidson | rob@wireweekly.com WIRE MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED, PRODUCED AND OWNED BY WIRE MEDIA GROUP L.L.C. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

t: 305.520.WIRE | f: 786.272.0123 | e: info@wireweekly.com 1541 Brickell Avenue #B2004 • Miami, FL 33129

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PUBLIShER'S corNer

PUBLISHERS’ CORNER wow! iT’S BeeN A yeAr? JoiN wire mA

PEOPLE POWER. PLUS THE KNIGHT ARTS CHALLENGE CONTEST. The people of Egypt taught the entire world a great lesson by demonstrating that “the people” can affect change and do it quickly.

Egyptians from all walks of life organized themselves with a level of commitment and determination unparalleled in recent memory. Their actions led to the end of Hosni Mubarak’s thirty-year reign as Egypt’s modern pharaoh, and will hopefully lead to a bright new era in the history of an ancient civilization that built the great pyramids.

What are we, as average citizens, supposed to take away from the historic events we saw unfold right before our very eyes on our television screens and our Facebooks and Twitters? The most important lesson is that the world has been fundamentally changed by new technologies that allow thousands, or even millions, of people to communicate quickly and effectively. The Egyptian police state apparatus of old guard sensors and spies was used to tapping phones and eaves dropping on traditional communications to control their citizens. They were no match for an era of Facebook, Twitter, and text communications.

fake communist regime that has allowed

This week and last week Fidel, Raul, and their hoodlums to amasshave probably multimillion dollar fortunes at the Cuban expense? beenpeople’s the busiest weeks ever for Thomas power is in. The bottom line is that and People I working wire magazine. the people of Miamion and the United States have no excuse to put up with or mediocre they don’tof very good Why?politicians For a leaders couple want. We live in a free, open society. So there should be no reason why the people reasons: Weorganize have working of Miami cannot themselves been to get rid of Mayor Carlos Alvarez and commissioners property tax very the hard onthat raised producing our second rates and refused to balance the budget by spending – our city and our nation ever cutting Pride edition of desperately needcollector’s fiscal responsibility.

Miami, it is time to make things happen a prompt recall or other wirethrough magazine – peaceful that we think you means of exercising the power of the people! will really enjoy reading through. In This week I also want to encourage you dition, we have also been working non-stop to participate in this year’s Knight Artson the first ever Challenge Contest. South Floridians can apply for their share of millionsWire of ficial Gay Pride Pool Party, which magazine dollars in funding from this community wide contest developed to find the best ideas for l host on Saturday, April 17th at theThehotel Victor with the arts in our community.

John S. and James L. Knight Foundation is accepting applicationsTequila until March 2, as sponsors. nlandia Vodka and herradura 2011 at www.knightarts.org.

The two-question application is designed to be simple and attract applicants who are not traditional grant seekers. So take advantage of this great opportunity to fund your arts idea! There are only three rules: Your idea has to be about the arts; the project has to take place in or benefit South Florida; and applicants must find other funding to match the Knight Foundation grant.

eally is hard to believe that a year has already gone by since we To put it simply, the old Egyptian police state was overwhelmed by the people’s blished the first ever Pride Collector’s Edition of Wire magazine, ability to leverage these new technologies to communicate in ways they could not that definitely theforcase.

Pride is once again taking place in keep is up with.

It was impossible them to spy on the millions of Facebook, Twitter, and text messages. Tech members ami Beach thissavvy Saturday and we hope that all our readers in of a younger generation switched back and forth between different means of Have a wonderful week, and feel free ami and Fort chance to enjoy this communication to thwartlauderdale the tyrannical to stop uswill on thehave streets ofa Miami, the state’s attempts to hinder their efforts to Beaches, and Fort Lauderdale to protest, Pride and get rid of the dictator share your thoughts and ideas couldn’t with Wire ek’sorganize, 2010 Collector’s Edition.

We have gotten who had controlled their lives and their Magazine. We welcome your feedback nation’s destiny for the past three decades. and suggestions to continue providing re without all your support, greatand lifestyle the contentsupport for our readers.of our advertisers, The second great lesson is that determined, well-organized can achieve feats Rafaof the Wire staff. Thanks very much onsors, andpeople all the members once thought to be impossible. This, of For The Publishers course, has dictators all around the world everyone for helping us make this possible! up late at night wondering if their hides Rafa Carvajal: are next. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to see the people of Cuba rise up in a similar people-led revolution and rid themselves of the Castros, their cronies, and their

rafa@wireweekly.com Thomas Barker:

thomas@wireweekly.com e also hope that you will be able to participate in the 6 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com ide festivities on Saturday, plus many of the ancillary

events and parties taking p parade, Expo, and day of why we are including a co can use as your map of wh and times to be there.

We also want to extend welcome you to join us for t Pool Party at the hotel V decided to put together a year’s Pride, courtesy of W have fun in the company complement the Parade, Ex main stages of Pride, and for some additional fun at from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. thi miik will be spinning, complimentary Finlandia v ticket purchase.

make sure to stop by our your copy of this week’s sp contest, but definitely stop hotel Victor to celebrate Pr pool party. We will be cam some additional fun in the

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NEWS AND VIEWS ALVIN AILEY @ THE ARSHT CENTER “We are so excited to share the celebration of Revelations at 50 with Miami,” said Jamison. “It is an American classic and an inspiring gift to the world because it speaks directly to all people. Everyone who experiences the ballet is moved and filled with joy, fulfilling Alvin Ailey’s idea that dance could touch your heart, mind, and spirit.”

Since 1960, Revelations performances have brought audiences around the globe to their feet night after night, including at the 1968 Olympics Opening Ceremonies and on five separate occasions at the White House, most recently at The White House Dance Series: A Tribute to Judith Jamison presented by First Lady Michelle Obama.

Set to a suite of traditional spirituals, Revelations is a tribute to the African-American heritage and a manifestation of Ailey’s genius.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, one of the world’s favorite dance companies, returns to the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County February 17-20, as part of a 24-city U.S. Tour celebrating 50 years of Alvin Ailey’s timeless masterpiece, Revelations. Ailey’s acclaimed dancers, including Miami natives Amos J. Machanic, Jr. and Jamar Roberts, will move audiences with exciting premieres, dramatic new productions, repertory favorites, and classic Revelations.

This season will also launch an exciting new chapter in Ailey history, as Ms. Jamison introduces Miami’s own Robert Battle who will become Artistic Director on July 1, 2011, when she takes Emerita status. It is only the second time the mantle of leadership has changed hands since Alvin Ailey founded the Company in 1958.

“Choosing Robert Battle was a powerful step to ensure that this company stays vibrant in the future,” says Jamison of his appointment. "Combining an intimate knowledge

of the Ailey Company with an independent perspective, he is without question the creative force of the future."

Honored by the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in 2005 as one of the “Masters of African‐ American Choreography,” Robert Battle is a fast‐rising choreographer who over the past decade has created ballets for the Ailey Company and Ailey II. He also has served as an artist‐in residence with The Ailey School.

“It is truly a humbling experience and privilege to follow in the footsteps of Mr. Ailey and Ms. Jamison,” Battle said.

“The spirit of the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater is so timeless and powerful. I hope to be worthy of this tremendous responsibility that I’ve been given, and to honor it in the only way Alvin Ailey would have accepted: by keeping it new, alive, and moving forward. It is incredibly meaningful for me to be returning to Miami with Ailey during this exciting time, and seeing audiences in my hometown be inspired by the magic of Ailey.”

What sets this phenomenal company apart from any other is the incomparable sense of joy, freedom, and spirit that the dancers and audiences share. Discover for yourself what millions of fans already know – you don’t just see an Ailey performance, you feel it.

Tickets starting at $25 are now on sale at: www.arshtcenter.org or 305.949.6722.

POST MODERN

BY MICHAEL W. SASSER

LESSONS FROM LATE NIGHT HORROR Even the most casual fan of science fiction or horror movies knows the set-up. In some suburban town sits a piece of undeveloped land that also happens to be a toxic waste dump with a layer of top soil over it, or else it is an Indian burial ground or other native holy site -- or, both.

Then, along comes a developer who sees big dollars in developing a shopping mall or residential community on the land and uses his big dollars or clout to push the greedy local government into letting it happen. Our heroes protest, of course, but even when the bodies start piling up, no one listens to them until it’s too late and the zombies or chupacabras or whatever start eating into profits -- and residents. Hilarity ensues.

Well, what if the developer of a potential project such as the ones in these myriad movies ran into a government that wanted development to take places on its former toxic waste land, but was stubborn about who did it? What if the bodies that piled up were the corpses of failed developers and real estate holding companies who were so incompetent, they couldn't even get the Village at Zombie Gardens of the ground? And what if the whole project was taking place on taxpayer-owned land in some sort of public-private partnership? Then, folks, you would have Biscayne Landing along the waterfront in North Miami.

A few years ago, I heard the proposed massive development near FIU described as being built on the largest tract of undeveloped waterfront land on the east coast of the United States. It was triggered when 8 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

the federal government took the site formerly known as Interama off the Super Fund cleanup list in light of apparent cleanup after years as a toxic dump site.

Envisioned was high-end residential and commercial development and all of the accouterment. It was to be the economic engine that drove the turnaround of the City of North Miami, a large bedroom community that boasts the Museum of Contemporary Art and being hometown to four generations of my family as chief claims to fame (er, infamy in the case of the latter). With the City holding onto the property and leasing it to a master developer, the partnership plan called for mass boons to the city in terms of tax dollars and bonuses such as investment in affordable housing and attractions around North Miami.

There's no remedy for bad timing and when the real estate market and general economy went into the crapper, the project only materialized two vaguely creepy residential towers of mediocre quality that are evocative of old Soviet Union central planning. Development rights changed hands several times until the point where I'll be damned if I can find out exactly who is currently ultimately responsible for the entire mess. There are court appointed trustees, real estate companies representing defaulted rights holders, etc.

To its credit, the City wants a good development team to acquire the rights to complete the project. The default status and market conditions haven't been real conducive for that. So far, I am told, the groups that have actively

proposed plans have been less than reputable. You know, maybe the kind of people who wouldn't pause a moment if a builder or two ended up mysteriously contracting the Plague during construction.

Just last week the city refused to extend the default period for the development rights holders, who allegedly haven't exactly been forthcoming with payments due to the city.

Unfortunately this happened right as one or two actually legitimate development groups had suddenly come forward showing interest in developing Zombie Gardens.

Now, I understand, the chances are even less that a real good master developer will come in to save the day.

Meanwhile the public's interest languishes as its biggest asset produces pretty much no benefit to North Miami.

The lesson here is that we can learn a lot from late night horror films. We know not to be the biggest ho in the room when the slasher starts filleting. And we know not to build on toxic waste dumps or Indian burial grounds. Or at least, if we're going to build, we need to make sure to do it right -- and get some good luck.

I can't tell you there is a villain here -- not one greedy developer or a corrupt city. Nope. I'm just sure the Biscayne Landing failure can't be blamed on a Chupacabra or an Indian ghost. At least not yet.

--Author and journalist Michael W. Sasser’s commentary on all things political appears exclusively in Wire Magazine.

Your e-mail is welcome at Michael@wireweekly.com.

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WIRE MAGAZINE'S TRAVELING BRUNCH @ BAIRES GRILL PHOTOS BY RAFA CARVAJAL

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BRUNCHIC @ PALACE EVERY SUNDAY PHOTOS BY JUAN SACO MIRONOFF

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WIRE COVER: FORTITUDE WEEKEND ROCKS FORT LAUDERDALE

BY THOMAS BARKER PHOTOS PROVIDED BY: FORTITUDE WEEKEND outh Florida has been home to two of the country’s hottest GLBT fundraising events, Winter Party and White Party, and has dominated the dance circuit for years. Now there is a new weekend fundraising festival making some major waves in South Florida. This weekend thousands of locals and out of towners will experience the first ever, Fortitude Weekend.

The brainchild of Centaur Entertainment CEO Nick De Biase, the new GLBT benefit weekend will feature over 12 events throughout Fort Lauderdale during President’s Day Weekend 2011 (February 17 -21, 2011), including a film festival, comedy night, live concert, women’s and men’s pool parties, sunset cocktails, brunch, and nightclub/bar events.

Out of all the events, there are two that everyone seems to be talking about. The first is a fabulous night of comedy called FortLaughs. The evening will feature the hilarious wit of Judy Gold, Alec Mapa, and Julie Goldman.

“I am so excited to be involved in Fortitude,” says Julie Goldman. “Not just for the balmy Ft. Lauderdale weather and gayness, but to be a part of a great organization working so hard to do good within our community. I am proud to be a part of this year’s event and hope to see it grow and prosper. I hope many, many people benefit from the proceeds. As an OUT LEZBO comedian – my desire is to not just push the envelope and entertain, but to inspire independent thinking and creativity. I want to empower people who think they have to go with the herd. I love being a part of organizations and events like this where we take our irreverence and fun and fabulousness – alongside our urgency and the fierce attitudes that keep us in action to help ourselves and each other.”

The other “main event” taking place is FortRocks, which features an incredible line-up of perfomers, including Taylor Dane, Martha Wash, and my personal favorite little diva, Deborah Cox! “I have always been a huge advocate for equality and gay rights,” says Taylor Dayne. “It is really important to take things from a bigger perspective. We have to reach out past our own internal fears and find the tools and strengths to get through the difficult situations. We just have to work through them.”

And the best part is that a portion of the proceeds will directly benefit some really important organizations, including anfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, the Pride Center, and The Fort Lauderdale-Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festivals.

If that were not enough, it is certainly a big boost for local businesses!

We are so excited about the arrival of Fortitude Weekend; we took some time to sit down with Cindy Shaw, who has been working around the clock to make sure Fortitude Weekend is a smashing success!

Check out what she had to say!: 12 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

WIRE COVER: FORTITUDE WEEKEND ROCKS FORT LAUDERDALE What is the concept of Fortitude Weekend?

The driving force behind Fortitude Weekend is Nick De Biase of Centaur Entertainment, the largest GLBT record label. The concept arose when both of his parents were dying from cancer at the end of 2009. His mother, Lydia, was a very giving person. Before she passed away, he told her that he would establish a foundation in her name as his last “gift” to her – to carry on her legacy of giving and to honor her memory.” So Nick incorporated a nonprofit called The L Foundation in his mother’s name. The L Foundation decided that their first fund raising venture would be producing a benefit concert.

Fortitude Weekend is all about coming together as a community to have a good time and to raise money for some very worthy charities.

I understand that there will be a pretty amazing comedy show. Can you tell me about that?

How did you connect with the comediennes?

Which charities will benefit from this event?

Yes, it will be a knock you off your seat hilarious evening of comedy Saturday night at the Parker Playhouse. We are lucky to get one of these comedians in a show. To have all three in one night is simply a not to be missed night.

The night will feature Judy Gold, Alec Mapa, and Julie Goldman. Judy Gold is a two-time Emmy Award winner for her work on the Rosie O’Donnell Show, a GLAAD Award winner, and has delighted audiences with her critically acclaimed Off-Broadway hit 25 Questions for

All of the funds from Fortitude Weekend are being directed to several charities. amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, is the main national beneficiary, while the Pride Center and the Fort Lauderdale-Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festivals are two of the local charities.

The Pride Center is also coordinating the large volunteer effort to help produce Fortitude Weekend.

Top Row: Roland Balmares, Mary Jane, Deborah Cox, Taylor Dayne, Debhi Ghresol Bottom Row: Judy Gold, C&C Music Factory, Martha Wash, DJ Escape, DJ Pat Pat

How did Fortitude Weekend come about?

After Nick met with many of the powers that be in Fort Lauderdale, it became clear the concept should be expanded into an entire weekend of events. The name Fortitude was chosen for this weekend of events because the word connotes strength, heart, determination, will power, courage, spirit and toughness – all words that also define us as members of the GLBT community in terms of what we have to face and overcome in life – and the “fort” doubles back on the wonderful city of Fort Lauderdale.

Why is it important to support Fortitude Weekend?

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As opposed to focusing on just guys or just girls, you have created a pretty broad range of programming. Why is that?

That is exactly the point of Fortitude Weekend. It's not about just the guys or just the girls. Fortitude is about bringing us ALL together as a community. We are expecting several thousand people from all over the country to attend the many different events for Fortitude Weekend. Fortitude is about raising money for worthy charities, but is also about coming out as a community to laugh, to play, and to be entertained. The vision has always been one of being a weekend of entertainment for women and men and we’re working to ensure that everyone has a great time.

a Jewish Mother. Alec Mapa’s hilarious one man show, I Remember Mapa, won the LA Weekly award for Best Solo show; he is better known as the always catty series regular, Suzuki St. Pierre, in Ugly Betty. Julie Goldman is an award winning comedian in her third season on Logo’s Big Gay Sketch Show and appears on Comedy Central with her featured stand-up Live at Gotham.

You guys will also be hosting a fabulous concert, featuring some of the biggest divas of dance music? Who are the featured artists and how did you get connected with them?

The Sunday live music concert will be held at the recently renovated War Memorial Auditorium featuring Taylor

Dayne, Deborah Cox, Martha Wash, Halcyon, Ari Gold, Brian Kent, and special guest appearances for a full night of amazing musical performances. Martha Wash, the powerhouse vocalist behind C+C Music Factory's classic Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now), has had many additional # 1 one hits. Halcyon is a Florida based lesbian folk rock band, and Ari Gold is an awardwinning gay artist and a # 1 debut artist on LOGO. Deborah Cox is a platinum selling R&B and dance music artist, and Brian Kent is a Billboard Dance Top 40 artist.

Three-time Grammy award nominee, Taylor Dayne, has had 17 top ten hits and has sold more than 75 million albums and singles.

The artists performing have all been very quick to step up and say, "yes" to performing in the Fortrocks concert.

They are all very committed to helping us raise money for charity and giving people a giant night of music.

What can people expect at Fortrocks?

People should expect a music extravaganza. The Sunday night concert at War Memorial will be jammed packed with great artists and performers. It will be a rock your night away event.

You guys will also be hosting a number of dance events. Can you tell me about those?

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The dance and after parties are there as a supporting cast to our main events. People will want the night to continue and we are providing them world class DJs spinning at some great venues around Fort Lauderdale so the evening's entertainment can continue into the night.

As for the brunch, why did you choose to do it at Mojo Restaurant?

Mojo is a relatively new restaurant in Fort Lauderdale and the owners, Dominick and Anthony, were on board the moment we approached them about hosting a brunch for us. These guys have been together 30 years and are very committed to giving back to the community.

What has been the response to a new gay weekend event in Fort Lauderdale?

Very Good. As the word is getting out, people are excited to see such a great event finally making its way to Fort Lauderdale.

Which brunch items are you most looking forward to?

Do I have to choose only one?!

What do you hope to accomplish with Fortitude

Brian Kent

Alec Mapa

Ari Gold

DJ DeMarko

WIRE COVER: FORTITUDE WEEKEND ROCKS FORT LAUDERDALE

Weekend? Will this become an annual event like Winter Party and White Party?

The vision for Fortitude Weekend has always been for it to be an annual event. Plans for 2012 are already underway. The hope is to raise as much money as possible for our beneficiaries, for people to have a great time, and for the buzz of 2012 to be at a fever pitch.

If someone wanted to get involved in Fortitude as a volunteer, how would they go about that?

We have a great crew already that has been helping.

It's easy, you just go to FORTITUDEweekend.com and go to Volunteer and sign up.

FORTITUDE

WEEKEND

February 17 -21, 2011 www.FORTITUDEweekend.com

JUAN SACO'S BIRTHDAY @ DISCOTEKKA PHOTOS BY JUAN SACO MIRONOFF

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WIRED ON THE ARTS: FEBRUARY 17 - MARCH 2

BY JAMES CUBBY

FEBRUARY 17 Miami continues to live up to its name as the City of Festivals. Prepare to laugh as the South Beach Comedy Festival returns with a roster of comedians sure to have you rolling in the aisles. Arts lovers will want to check out the Coconut Grove Arts Festival exhibiting more than 380 TO MARCH 2 international artists. Live music is plentiful in local venues, but upcoming festivals such as the Flamenco Festival Miami and the Miami Blues Festival are celebrations of their genre. The Arsht Center and Broward Center always offer the best in entertainment, including the current Broadway smash hits, Jersey Boys and West Side Story. Miami is also blessed with top-notch dance companies like Miami City Ballet and Dance Now Ensemble, both performing this month.

CONCERTS

THEATRE

Miami venues always offer a variety of musical genres, from blues to pop, jazz to classical, rock to international.

Marco Antonio Solis and Ricardo Montaner, two of the most popular Spanish singer-songwriters in the world, will bring their music to the American Airlines Arena on February 19.

Broadway comes to town once again with West Side Story and Jersey Boys.

Hal Linden, best known as the star of the TV series Barney Miller, has been entertaining audiences for years with his concert performances. The actor/ singer/musician, who has won three Emmys and a Tony Award, will be performing in concert at the Robert Russell Theater at Alper JCC on February 24 at 8 p.m.

Pulse, the new Late Night series at the New World Symphony, brings classical music to the stage for night owls on February 25. Conductor Benjamin Shwartz and DJ/composer Mason Bates create the music for this new concept that combines classical music with the South Beach nightlife scene. 10 p.m.

Celebrating Miles, part of the Jazz Roots Series at the Arsht Center, pays tribute to the music of Miles Davis on February 26. Multiple Grammy Award-winning trumpeter Wallace Roney headlines the first half of the show with legendary musician Marcus Miller bringing his show "Tutu Revisited, The Music of Miles Davis," to the stage for the finale. 8 p.m.

West Side Story, the legendary musical that changed the face of Broadway fifty years ago, comes to the Broward Center for a two-week run starting February 15. An American favorite with memorable songs like "Something's Coming," "Maria," "America," "Somewhere," "Tonight," and "I Feel Pretty."

Everybody loves Lucy. If you've ever dreamed of spending an evening with Lucy, here's your chance when An Evening with Lucille Ball comes to the Amaturo Theater of the Broward Center (February 17-20). A one-woman play directed by Lucie Arnaz.

The Broadway smash hit, Jersey Boys, based on the life of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, comes to the Arsht Center (March 2-20). This is the true story of one of the greatest successes in pop music history, featuring hit songs like “Earth Angel,” “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don't Cry,” and “Walk Like a Man.”

The incredible Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre returns to Miami for the third year in a row for a four-night run (February 17-20) at the Arsht Center. Enjoy the 50th anniversary of their masterpiece Revelations, South Florida premieres, and a couple of new productions.

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EVENTS The 48th Annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival returns with more than 380 international artists exhibiting their finest work (February 19-21).

The festival also features live musical performances and world-famous chefs. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Along McFarlane Road and South Bayshore Drive in Coconut Grove. For more information visit www. cgaf.com.

VENUES DANCE

Opera lovers will get a chance to see the popular opera, Turandot, the story of the conversion of an ice princess through the power of love, presented by Opera International at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center on February 24.

The South Beach Comedy Festival returns with a hilarious line-up of comedians, including Doug Benson (March 2), Bill Burr, Adam Corola, Gabriel Iglesias, and Wanda Sykes.

Comedians will be appearing at the Fillmore Miami Beach, the New World Center, the Colony Theatre, Lincoln Road Free Stage, and Backstage at the Fillmore (March 2-5). Visit www. southbeachcomedyfestival. com for a complete schedule.

Submissions for Wired on the Arts should be sent to cubby@wireweekly.com

Bright Eyes, an indie/folk band, comes to the Fillmore Miami Beach on March 2 to perform songs from their new album The People's Key.

OPERA

ART

The Arsht Center presents Flamenco Festival Miami 2011: Ballet Nacional de España for their exclusive American engagement (February 23-26). Spain’s foremost ambassadors of flamenco will perform two of the most riveting works at every performance.

Miami City Ballet once again presents their Open Barre Dance Series, an intimate performance in the 200-seat theater, on February 25 & 26. This is a rare opportunity to see these talented dancers up close.

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Downtown Miami 305.949.6722 or www.arshtcenter.org

American Airlines Arena 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami 786.777.1000 or www.aaarena.com Broward Center for the Performing Arts 201 Southwest Fifth Ave., Ft. Lauderdale 954.462.0222 or www.browardcenter.org Colony Theatre 1040 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach 786.397.7717 The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theater 1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach 877.598.8690 or www.livenation.com New World Center 500 17th St., Miami Beach 305.673.333`or www.nws.edu Robert Russell Theater at Alper JCC 11155 SW 112th Ave., Miami 305.271.9000 or www.alperjcc.org

17 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

Food 11Th @STreeT DiNer 11th Street Diner 660 THE ANGLERS

StreetAve., andWashington Washington Ave.,MB Corner 11th Street and Ave., 660 Washington MB | 305.534.9600 MB 305.534.6373 The new Winter menu highlights 305.534.6373 Array ofofhome-style American Contemporary American withdiner a fewcuisine, Medarray home-style american diner inspired appetizers share like the highly from meatloaf friedtochicken.

Daily specials cuisine, fromtomeatloaf to fried chicken. addictive $5 Fried with lime and and great prix fixe menu only $12.99. daily specials andEdamame greatfor prix fixe menu adobo, and succulent main dishes like the Can’t beat the prices here!

It’s the where for only $12.99.

Can’t beat prices popular $18 Cut locals eat as well as the starving tourists. here! it’swith where theHand locals eatPappardelle as well as

Carbonara and $20 Buttermilk Fried the starving tourists.

Chicken.

Daily Happy Hour can be enjoyed A lA Folie in the bar, Front Porch Mermaid lounge 516 Espanola Way MB |or305.538.4484 a La FoLie with WiFi original throughout.

Southfree Florida’s crêperie that is more

516 Espanola Way MB | 305.538.4484 café-likeFlorida’s in its offerings classic that French south original ofcrêperie is 11TH STREET DINER crepes, sandwiches, salads, and of platters.

A more café-like in its offerings classic Corner 11th Street and Washington Ave., MB very casual, friendly lounge with competent, French crepes, sandwiches, salads, and 305.534.6373 knowledgeable wait staff. no need lounge to rush platters. casual, friendly Array ofa very home-style American diner here! It’s French, after all! Sit, relax, peruse with competent, knowledgeable wait cuisine, from meatloaf to fried chicken. the numerous periodicals over a glass of staff. specials no needand to great rush here! it’smenu French, Daily prix fixe for Pouilly Fumé or a Stella Artois.

Or maybe an after all! sit, relax, numerous only $12.99.

Can’t peruse beat thetheprices here! herbal tea or infusion.

Right the heart of periodicals over a glass Fumé It’s where the locals eat of asinpouilly well as the the fabulous Española Way neighborhood. or a stella artois. or maybe an herbal starving tourists.

Outside lounge open forinspecial champagne tea or infusion. right the heart of the nights season.

Call for special prix fixe A LA in FOLIE fabulous española Way neighborhood. international dinners.

516 Espanola Way, MB | 305.538.4484 outside lounge open for special

South Florida’s original crêperiecall that for is champagne nights in season. cAFé AT BookS & more café-like its BookS offerings dinners. of classic special prix fixeininternational

933 Lincoln Road,sandwiches, MB | 305.695.8898 French crepes, salads, and One of the most important thatlounge Books platters.

A very casual, things friendly anDiamo & Books has that sets it apart fromwait any staff. other with competent, knowledgeable 5600 Biscayne Blvd.,Miami | 305.762.5751

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chain is athey wonderful not one atbookstore $27.50. can’tpersonality. beperiodicals beat. Full Sit, relax, peruse the numerous only with can you find the latestFumé booksthe andaservice coolest over a glass ofspecials, Pouilly or Stella bar drink too. magazines, now you delicious Artois.

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Just walk over to 1223 Lincoln Road, MBof| 305.532.3061 One of the pioneers Lincolnroad Road,mall Da david’s café ii off of Lincoln Stop by onespot of with South Beach’s best Leo meridian is popular locals, tourists, on avenue for some of and the restaurants for seafood, Chef Simon celebrities.

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Theincredible menu changes onfora people-watching while dining al fresco. Ask those the go. regularonbasis; depending upon what chef about their special prix fixe menus – one at Simon can get his hands on that day. Our $15.95 and one atcaFé be Front Porch favorite dishes are $27.50. definitelyThey the can’t hogfish beat.

Full bar with drink specials, too.

The 1418 Ocean Drive, MBferro. | 305.531.8300 and the octopus with Delicious! service17 hasyears been of outstanding owners Leo after serving as south beach and mario keep careful watch. locals the freshest, meals in BLT STEAK @ THEimpeccable BETSY

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Pair90that the breakfasts. a great menu with the most Cuban cuisine.

Just walk over to David’s delectable nibbles of BLT Steak, and you reasonable prices. you might have to Café IIone off fabulous of Lincoln Road onworth meridian have restaurant.

Samuel wait, but be patient, it’small wellChef the Avenueasfor some of the the finest dishes Gorenstein mans helm, consistently effort Larry, michael, andCuban dawn cater producing dishes would even tempt a anywhere.

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FroNT Porch cAFé

CAFÉ AT BOOKS &| BOOKS 1418 Ocean Drive, MB 305.531.8300

933 MB |South 305.695.8898 After Lincoln 17 yearsRoad, of serving Beach locals the One of the most important that Books freshest, impeccable meals in things generous portions, & has that it apart fromIt’s any thisBooks restaurant has sets nothing to prove. theother best chain bookstore a wonderful personality. for casual fare at isany time, but especially for Not can you latest books and their only breakfasts.

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on Lincoln Road. The food is really quite something, especially their Miami Cheese Joey’S Steak Sandwich.

2506 NW 2nd Ave., Miami | 305.438.0488 DA LEO TRATTORIA Swing by this new artsy Italian eatery for 819 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.674.0350 some authentic Italian nibbles as Da Leoincredibly hosts it’s very popular Bubbly Brunch chef Ivo takes you a culinary journey every Sunday.

This on year’s selections are through the and Veneto region of Italy.the Thecareful mista tantalizing delightful under salad isofa Managing great way to kick offMarcos. your meal and watch Director Enjoy the spaghettiFrench alle vongole – spaghetti with pancakes, toast, and more, plus mussels – or drink the butter flied beef all you can champagne fortenderloin $32 per are two tasty to enjoy as an entrée.Da person, with dishes alla carte menu options.

Leo is a popular spot with locals, tourists, koNexPreSS and celebrities who love their delicious 445 Espanola Way, MB food, complemented by| 305.420.5809 some of the best people-watching while dining al fresco on Brazil’s most well known Japanese Brazilian Lincoln Road.

expanded outdoor seating with video joey’S screens and complimentary wi-fi. 2506 NW 2nd Ave., Miami | 305.438.0488 Gourmet pizza is award winning and swing by this new artsy italian eatery for nationally recognized! additional italian some incredibly authentic italian nibbles menu selections include paninis, salads, as chef ivo takes you onFAMILY a culinary OUTING soups, desserts. serves beer and wine. journey through the veneto region of Even if you’ve known about your sexualcheese orientationitaly. for most Acceptance.

After way a time, now serving Frankie’s philly theofmista salad is a great to most people come to accept the news. They may cycle through these stages a few times, but your life, it may come as a surprise to other people.

Almost steaks! kick off your meal and the spaghetti alle every gay, lesbian, and bisexual person faces the challenge of eventually the facts sink in. Only then is the person ready to – spaghetti musselsand – ormove the on. acceptwith the situation coming out to friends and family members at somevongole point in his BookS butter itflied orcaFé her life.at ForBookS some, it is&relatively painless. For others, can beef tenderloin are two tasty Kübler-Ross, and others who have done research be933 extremely the coming-out goes dishes dependstoon enjoyElizabeth as an entrée.

Lincoln difficult.

Road, MBHow | 305.695.8898 in the area of death and dying, discovered that people many factors.

When the news is a complete surprise, it usually one of the most important things that takes some time for family members to process it, and the experience the same set of reactions in response to any kind of books & books has that sets it apart from konexPreSS experience is often very much like a loss. The people receiving loss, including hearing the news that a son or daughter is gay. other a wonderful MB | 305.420.5809 theany news arechain losingbookstore the imageisthey once had of445 the Espanola person Way, some families, it is difficult to accept the fact that a child personality. only can youa different find theview. brazil’s mostFor coming out and not must replace it with For some is well gay orknown lesbian. Japanese Some family members process the news people, can be an coolest extremelymagazines, emotional experience. latest this books and brazilianAsrestaurant concept now init with little or no difficulty. Others quickly and seem is to accept with anyyou other major loss,truly many people experience reactions a hard time and may never completely understand or like now can enjoy delicious and miami beach, have and offering an assortment such as: what they haverolls, learned.

There are things you can do to try generous food in one of the most relaxed of delicious Kones, sushi sakes, to make the coming-out process easier on yourself and your environments Lincoln road. orand salads. by for sake-bomb Shock.

The firstpossible reaction on may be numbness denial.

A swing loved ones: the may foodask, is “Are really starting nov. 20th at 6 p.m. for person youquite sure?”something, or say, “It’s justFridays a phase.”

Have a support Some feel nothing several days, claiming to have no 1)and especially their for miami cheese steak $5 sake-bombs free sushi. system. You shouldn’t have to go through the coming-out experience on your own. Discuss it with others reaction at all. sandwich. who have gone through it themselves. Meet with a mentalLa SanDwicherie Anger. After the shock wears off, people may become angry. health professional who is trained in GLBT issues and talk through your feelings.

Da Leo trattoria 229 have 14th St., | 305.532.8934 Family members may say or think, “Why does this to MB happen to me?” or “What did I do to deserve this?”

819 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.674.0350 sandwiches and salads along with fruit 2) Decide for yourself how open you can safely be. You don’t shakes you will one of the pioneers of Lincoln road, da smoothies andhave to tellisorwhat explain everything.

Bargaining.

The person may start to think that he or she Leo is popular spot with locals, tourists, find at this landmark sandwich shop on can do something to change the fact of your gayness. He or 3) Don’t take others’ reactions personally. People’s reactions 14thwith street Washington and and Where just else could you she maycelebrities. say, “You probably need a nice vacation the between say everything about them, and nothing about you. collins. it’s enjoyto rich, tasty head food,andwhich is basic family clear your then you’ll feel differently,” or one of the best places on pray to god, “Please this go away and and I’ll the neverbeach say a for4)anTelloutstanding home-style pastas make and meat dishes, them it’s notselection their fault. In fact, it’s nobody’s fault. It bad wordoftothe himbest again.” just is.a French flair. very some people-watching while of light fare with Open from 9 a.m. to dining al fresco. ask and about their special Depression.

Sadness lethargy may then reasonable set in. The prices.

5) Be prepared to do a lot of listening, which is a way to 5 a.m. and until 10sense p.m. of dignity and power. When you are prix fixe – and one sad at $15.95 person may menus feel guilty for a longand time, wishing that delivery maintain your

WIRED ON: MENTAL HEALTH

things could be different.

18 || wire 40 wire magazine magazine || wireweekly.com wireweekly.com

listening, you are in control. Ask them questions about how

restaurant concept DAVID’S CAFÉ IIis now in miami Beach,

and offering assortment of delicious 1654 Meridianan Ave., MB | 305.672.8707 Kones, sushi rolls, and miles salads.

You don’t have to sakes, travel 90 to Swing Cuban by for Sake-Bomb starting enjoy cuisine. JustFridays walk over to David’s Café of for Lincoln Road Mall nov. 20th at II6 off p.m. $5 sake-bombs on Avenue for some of the finest andMeridian free sushi.

Cuban dishes anywhere. And all at very reasonable prices. They’re open 24 hours. lA SANDwicherie Full buffets for those on the 229 bar.

14thIncredible St., MB | 305.532.8934 go.

Sandwiches and salads along with fruit

smoothies and shakes is what you will find

DE RODRIGUEZ CUBA shop on 14th at this landmark sandwich

956 Washington Ave, MB | 305.673.3763 Street between Washington and Collins.

As one of Miami’s most celebrated culinary It’s one of the best places on the Beach geniuses, chef Douglas Rodriguez always for an outstanding selection of light fare attracts a fabulous crowd of foodies, who with can’t a French Very prices. just get flair. enough ofreasonable his contemporary open from 9 a.m. to 5 a.m. and delivery take on traditional Cuban bites. We just until 10 can’t getp.m. enough of the snapper and conch

ceviche, Cuban malanga Tacos, and the mAyA TAPAS & Grill oxtail.

The Sangria Sunday brunch with 809 Lincolnsangria Road, MB 305.538.0058 unlimited is |also an event you Lincolnwant Road jamaspacked some won’t to is miss, you getwith to try six of the trendiest to grab a bite different signature places sangrias! in SoBe, and maya is definitely one of

FRONT PORCH them. Indulge in CAFÉ their succulent steak

1458 Oceanon Drive, | 305.531.8300 and imbibe oneMB of their fantastic wine After 17 years serving South aBeach selections – all of while enjoying front locals the offreshest, mealsand in row seat miami’simpeccable most beautiful generous glamorous!portions, this restaurant has

nothing to prove. It’s the best for casual

BY DR. GREGG A. PIZZI, PSYCHOLOGIST

they are feeling, since giving them a chance to express their thoughts and feelings is likely to help them let go and move on.

6) Accept their reactions. You don’t have to agree with them or like them, but you can accept them. Also, expect them to say hurtful things they will take back later. You can choose whether you want to be exposed to severely negative reactions if hurtful behaviors persist.

7) Tell family members about PFLAG support groups and give them something helpful to read about homosexuality. Families who cannot seem to recover from the coming-out may need to be seen by a qualified GLBT-trained professional to resolve things.

Finally, keep in mind that the decision to come out and the details regarding to whom, when, why, where, and how one comes out, are very personal and vary from individual to individual. One should not come out unless he or she is truly ready, has adequate support, and feels it is safe to do so.

Dr. Gregg A. Pizzi, Licensed Psychologist, specializes in the Emotional Health & Wellness of the GLBT community. An Imago Relationship Therapist and HIV Psychologist Trainer, he can be reached at 1.888.DRPIZZI or www.drpizzi.com The content of this article is for informational purposes only. Reliance upon the information contained herein does not create a professional relationship, nor is the information intended to provide psychological evaluation or treatment.

wire mAGAziNe’S liST oF DiNiNG PleASUreS

The Florida! menu features a number of delicious in South It has coffee, deserts, light PAlAce chy’Sfare at any time, but especially for their MICHY’S dishes kebabs, breakfasts. great| menu with the most 6927 Biscayne Blvd., Miami | 305.759.2001 food,Mediterranean a fabulous bar, and including the best music, 1200 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.531.7234 27 Biscayne Blvd., A Miami As gay oneowned of the members of the and falafel.

You cantime nowfor also reasonable prices. You might have to wait, all ofhoummus, which guarantee a fantastic Landmark andoriginal operated restaurant 5.759.2001 Mango Michelle Bernstein grabout breakfast at Pasha’s well. Located but the be patient, well worth as barinfamous hanging with miami’s hottestas coolsters and on Ocean Drive Gang, and 12th Street with one of originalit’smembers of the theeffortand is popular known for herand exceptional use An of local on alike.

Lincoln Road, restaurant also and Dawn cater to your tourists This is wherethe the hip hangs out a simple, tourist locals’ menu. amous Larry, mangoMichael, Gang, michelle Bernstein ingredients and flavors. Michy’s showcases features outdoor dining for great people every need from their new location.

American bistro flair still with one of the best with the hipper. known for her exceptional use of local Michelle’s fantastic talent with a simple; watching, and you can either take the food 8-ounceyet, burgers on the Beach.

The from bar has gredients and flavors. michy’s showcases delicious menu ranging fantastic to go or have a nice sit down dinner.

JOEY’S long been a meeting point for American and SoykA chelle’s fantastic talent with a simple; 2506 NW 2nd Ave., Miami | 305.438.0488 fried chicken and watermelon Greek salad international gay tourists. Stop by any day of 5556 N.E.4th Court, Miami | , delicious menu ranging from fantastic Swing by this new artsy Italian eatery for to her succulent steak dishes. No matter SEGAFREDO 305.759.3117 theasweek – open 10a.m until 2 a.m. andto be ed chicken and watermelon Greek salad what you from choose, everything is sure 1040 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.0047 some incredibly authentic Italian nibbles scrumptious.

Famed restauranteur Soyka’s namesake serving food until 10p.m. her succulent steak dishes. no matter This is the mostmark fun and authentic Italian chef Ivo takes you on a culinary journey restaurant at 55th and Biscayne.

Great array at you through choose, the everything is sure to be café in South Florida!

It has coffee, deserts, Veneto region of Italy. The PALACE of affordable food”bar, for and everyone. umptious. light food,“comfort a fabulous the best mista salad is a great way to kickPAShA’S off 1200Road, OceanMB Drive, MB | 305.531.7234 Comfortable andofinviting. a great local 900 Lincoln | 305.673.3919 music, all which Draws guarantee a fantastic your meal and the spaghetti alle vongole Landmark gay owned and operated time for hanging out with Miami’s hottest who like to hang out at 55th Street As one of miami’s healthiest places to grab crowd SS yiP– spaghetti with mussels – or the butter restaurant and bar on Ocean Drive and coolsters and alike. This is and where Station adjacent to tourists the restaurant.

Food a bite, Pasha’s has with become a staple amongtourist 61 Meridian Ave., MB | 305.534.5488 flied beef tenderloin are two tasty dishes to 12th Street a simple, popular theare hip well hangs out a with thenow hipper. as an entrée. service worth visit. featuring South Beach’s trendiest dieters.

The menu ot evenenjoy Cameron Diaz could have a and locals’ menu. An American bistro The news Lounge! featuresflair a number of delicious ccessful and long-lasting restaurant in this still with one ofmediterranean the best 8-ounce SOYKA SANDWICHERIE including hoummus, ace, butLA leave it to the intrepid Jennie Yip dishes burgers on kebabs, the Beach.

The bar and has long 5556 N.E.4th Court, Miami | 305.759.3117 229 14th MBKong-style | 305.532.8934 a meeting American SPriS falafel. been You can now alsopoint grabforbreakfast at and defy gravity.

This St., hong Chinese Famed restauranteur Mark Soyka’s Sandwiches and salads along with fruit gay on tourists.

Stop by any 731 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.2020 as well. Located Lincoln Road, the day taurant has easily become a very popular Pasha’s international namesake restaurant at 55th and Biscayne. smoothies and shakes is what you will find of the week – open from 10a.m until 2 a.m. pizzeria Tiramesu. ot right off Lincoln Road in a very short restaurant also features outdoor dining for The Great array restaurant of affordableof “comfort food” at this landmark sandwich shop on 14th and serving food until 10p.m. the best Comfortable Italian pizzaand on South great people watching, and you can either Absolutely e. They serve truly scrumptious homemade for everyone. inviting.

Street between Washington and Collins.

Beach prepared by alocal greatcrowd pizza who chef.like An to take the food to go or have a nice sit down onton or hot and sour soup; really good Draws a great It’s one of the best places on the Beach for PASHA’S selection of white pizzas, too. You to dinner. 900 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.3919 excellent oo Shu pork and mongolian beef; and a hang out at 55th Street Station adjacent an outstanding selection of light fare with a can the alsorestaurant. order your pizza a whole rific variety of flair. vegetable, rice, and noodle Food and with service are well French Very reasonable prices. Open As one of Miami’s healthiest places to wheat crust.

Sandwiches and salads SeGAFreDo hes. Don’t forget their awesome Shanghai worth a visit.

Now featuring The are News from 9 a.m. to 5 a.m. and delivery until grab a bite, Pasha’s has become a staple Lounge! excellent.

Best bet for an after movie light | 305.673.0047 press $8.88 amongRoad, SouthMBBeach’s trendiest dieters.

10 p.m.lunch specials – over 45 1040 Lincoln dinner or late night snack.

This is the most fun and authentic Italian café oices!

CHEAP CHIC

Introducing our new half portion sharing menu.

CHINA GRILL 19 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

SOUTH BEACH • at Washington & Fifth • $9 valet parking

TiDeS SoUTh BeAch SPRIS 731Ocean Lincoln Drive, Road, MB | 305.604.5070 305.673.2020 1220 TheGonzalo pizzeria restaurant Chef Rivera combinesofhisTiramesu. mexican Absolutely best Italian pizza on South roots with thethe carribean flavor of miami to Beachanprepared by a greatforpizza chef. create exceptional menu The Tides An excellent selection of white pizzas, South Beach’s restaurant La marea. We too. You can also order your pizza with a suggest off your meal with and the lobster wholekicking wheat crust.

Sandwiches salads corndogs or crab cakes and enjoying Chef are excellent. Best bet for an after movie Gonzalo’s delicious Angussnack. filet Rossini or light dinner or late night fantastic yellowtail snapper for an entrée.

TIRAMESU

721 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.532.4538 TirAmeSU A Lincoln thrivingRoad, Italian on Lincoln 721 MB restaurant | 305.532.4538 great serviceonand excellent, A Road thrivingwith Italian restaurant Lincoln Road moderately priced Northern Italian with great service and excellent, moderately specialties. Expansive menu – open for priced Italianwith specialties.

Expansive lunchnorthern and dinner very friendly staff menu open for lunch and dinner with very and–management. friendly staff and management.

VAN DYKE CAFÉ

846Dyke LincolncAFé Road, MB | 305.534.3600 VAN What News Café Ocean Drive, the 846 Lincoln Road, MBis| to 305.534.3600 Vannews Dyke is to Lincoln Road. Drive, Another What Café is to Ocean thehuge Van success for Mark who hassuccess now Dyke is to Lincoln Road.Soyka Another huge partnered with Graziano Sbroggio to run for mark Soyka who has now partnered with the place. Always packed offering some of Graziano to run the Always the bestSbroggio people-watching on place. the Road and packed offering some of lunch, the bestor people-watching a quick breakfast, dinner. Also oncheck the Road and a quick lunch, or out Upstairs at thebreakfast, Van Dyke for an dinner.

Alsoofcheck at the Van Dyke evening Jazzout andUpstairs entertainment. for an evening of Jazz and entertainment.

THIS WEEK THURSDAY, February 17 BUCK15 LOUNGE: It’s a special edition of The Simple Life Thursdays, as Edison Farrow hosts the official BASE Spring Collection Preview Afterparty with free Finlandia Vodka cocktails from 10:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. DJ Daisy D. spins fun hip-hop, ‘80s, rock, and dance hits, with Chyna as Door Goddess. 707 Lincoln Lane, Miami Beach.

MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by a night with the ladies, as Pandora Events hosts Sweet with $3 beer specials all night long and music by DJ Zehno. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: Palace hosts Cabaret Thursdays with solo performances by the incomparable Tiffany Fantasia. Show starts at 6 p.m. $3 domestic beer and $11 draft pitcher specials all night.

SCORE: Enjoy cocktails out on the patio and watch the famous Lincoln Road traffic pass by as you and your friends chill and enjoy great music. Tonight Score hosts the steamiest Thursday night soiree with fab beats by DJ Pride paired with an incredible crowd of delicious partygoers. 727 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach.

TWIST: Don’t miss out on a fabulous night at TWIST with scandalous clowns, twisted acrobats, and over-the-top performances, as TWIST turns into a TWISTed Circus. Expect tons of surprises and debauchery.

FRIDAY, February 18 CHA CHA CHA ROOSTER ROOSTER @ CHA @ THE THE LORDS: LORDS: From 5 5 p.m. p.m. to to 9 From 9 p.m., p.m., Lords Lords will will introintroduce their their new new weekly duce weekly happy happy hour, hour, “Bottoms Up,” Up,” for for everyone everyonewho wholoves lovesa “Bottoms a stiff, inexpensive cocktail a stiff, but but inexpensive cocktail after after a long long week at work. $4 drinks and week at work.

Enjoy Enjoy $4 drinks and tantatantalizing specials lizing small small plate plate specials from from Cha Cha Cha Cha Rooster, DJ fill willthe fill bar the with bar Rooster, while while a DJ awill with vintage vinyl 80s tunes, and vintage vinyl tunes, hits,80s andhits, Motown Motown classics. classics.

HYPE: Tonight Edison Farrow hosts his Friday night sensation, Hype, with free Finlandia vodka cocktails from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. and music by DJ Smeejay. 721 Lincoln Lane. www.sobesocialclub.com MOVA: It’s MOVA Fridays with $6 Finlandia vodka cocktails and a late night 2-4-1 happy hour from 1 a.m. to 3 a.m., as well as fab beats by hot DJs. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: Drag Madness is the place to be to see the hottest Friday night shows

by Latrice Royale, Champagne Bordeaux, and Noel Leon beginning at 6 p.m. You never know what these girls are gonna do, so get there early!

TWIST: Don’t miss out on a fabulous night at TWIST. Enjoy seven different bars, DJ Michael Tank, stiff drinks, beautiful dancers, and, of course, the only place 20 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

where there’s “Never a cover...Always a groove.”

SCORE: The Penny Back Boyz host the weekly Friday night party Filthy Gorgeous Fridays with DJ Mac spinning a true open format and Score’s hottest Go-Go boys on the speaker boxes.

SATURDAY, February 19 ANGLERS: If you are looking to nurse that hangover with some unlimited mimosas and bloody Mary’s, look no further than 660 at the Anglers. Enjoy great food and delicious libations in one of the most beautiful boutique resorts Miami Beach has to offer.

DISCOTEKKA: Downtown Miami’s only gay dance party delivers one hell of a shindig every Saturday night as Discotekka divas Vegas Dion, TP Lords, Sasha Sky, and Victoria Sky entertain and mesmerize the crowd while international DJs keep up the beat. Doors open at 11 p.m. 950 NE 2nd Ave. www. discotekka.com MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by FLASH Saturdays with the hottest music videos and visual entertainment till 3 a.m. with $7 Belvedere cocktails all night. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: Enjoy a special day of drag shows, great food, and stiff cocktails, as The Palace Bar hosts Drag Madness with Tiffany Fantasia and her gaggle of performers! Heels hit the pavement at 6 p.m. sharp!

SCORE: Tonight is Score’s weekly Bigger Saturdays, the largest gay dance party on the Beach with beats by international DJ sensations, and performances by CircX. 727 Lincoln Road.

TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 with Tommy and the locals from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Come tonight and enjoy a full house of hot men and some incredible beats by DJ Mika. “Never a cover...

Always a groove.”

SUNDAY, February 20 ANGLERS: If you are looking to nurse that hangover with some unlimited mimosas and bloody Mary’s, look no further than 660 at the Anglers. Enjoy great food and delicious libations in one of the most beautiful boutique resorts Miami Beach has to offer.

DA LEO: As one of Lincoln Road’s first Italian restaurants, Da Leo always attracts a crowd of locals and regular visitors, and that is no more evident than its weekly Sunday brunch. A two-course menu paired with unlimited mimosas and champagne. Corks pop at 12 p.m. sharp!

THE LORDS: If you love great food paired with free drinks, Punch Brunch is the way to go, as Cha Cha Rooster at

The Lords offers a two-course meal paired with two free cocktails for only $20.

Afterwards, enjoy cocktails poolside for their weekly Punch T-dance.

LUX: LUX: Edison Edison Farrow, Farrow, along along with with Omar Gonzalez, Gonzalez, hosts hosts South South Florida’s Florida’s hottest new newdance danceparty partyatatone oneofofthe themost mostluxuriluxuous riousvenues venuesininSouth SouthBeach.

Beach. Hot Hot boys, great great drinks, drinks, and and fab fab music! music! Doors open at at 10 10 p.m. p.m. and and the the party party continues all night night long. long. 1439 1439 Washington Washington Ave. Ave. MOVA: Swing by for a night of dirty house beats and sexy Go-Go boys during VICE Sundays. Revelers will enjoy $1 Svedka drinks from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m., 2-4-1 drinks from 1 a.m. to 3 a.m. and $4 Herradura Tequila shots all night long! No cover.

PALACE: Swing by the only gay bar on Ocean Drive for one of SoBe’s most unique and over-the-top brunches, as some of South Florida’s most fabulously frocked fellows take to the sidewalk to perform for hundreds of onlookers during Brunchic. Two seatings: 11:30 a.m. or 2 p.m. Afterwards, check out the sexiest Sunday T Dance in SoBe. 1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Stop by for Score’s weekly karaoke night hosted by Geraldine. With over 2,000 titles to choose from, you are sure to find a song to inspire your inner star.

Grab a cocktail and belt out your favorite number.

TWIST: 2-4-1 happy hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Afterwards, some of the most scandalous drag performers will hit the stage upstairs, while DJ Paulie works it out on the main dance floor.

At TWIST: “Never a cover...Always a groove.

MONDAY, February 21 KILL YOUR IDOL: Dustin Reffca presents Glitter Box Mondays with Manic Monday beats by DJ Smeejay. $1 PBR Beers and $4 vodka drinks. Doors open at 10 p.m.

222 Espanola Way, Miami Beach.

MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by Movie Mondays complete with popcorn and your favorite Hollywood hits. Half priced drinks all night long. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: Stop in for comfort food at lunch or dinner. Special bon voyage cocktail specials all day. 1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Happy Monday, where all drinks, well and domestic, are half-price from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. No cover.

TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 drinks ‘till 9 p.m. Then it’s “I’m A Local” night, with $3 drinks for anyone with TWIST’s “I’m A Local” I.D. all night long. Join Nathan in the Frolic Lounge for his signature mix of pop and the top 20. Also check out the 21 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

fabulous men of Gaiety in the Bungalow Bar starting at 10 p.m. and DJ Bryan Zero’s fab beats on the main dance floor.

TUESDAY, February 22 MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. followed by Mova’s weekly Drag Bingo, hosted by Geraldine and serving as a benefit for Care Resource from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Afterwards it’s Stereo Jungle with DJ Chris V spinning the best in international house music with $5 Finlandia cocktails. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: Better than ever before on Ocean Drive and 12th Street, try it for lunch or a late afternoon snack, or just hang out at the bar with the locals. No matter what you’re in the mood for, Palace is sure to have it!

SCORE: It’s Planeta Macho, the hottest Latin Party in Miami Beach, featuring incredible Latin beats by award winner DJ George Ferrero, Pelu Rivero on drums, amazing shows by Miami’s best female impersonators, and the hottest crowd in town. Don’t miss this party – it’s South Florida’s Best Latin Party!

TWIST: 2-4-1 Happy Hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Tonight Dustin Reffca hosts his weekly party, Fun House Tuesdays. With DJ Daisy D working the turntables on the main dance floor, you can be the beats will be hot and the dance floor packed. $5 Jumbo Blue Long Island Ice Teas all night long. Never a cover… Always a groove.

WEDNESDAY, February 23 THE LORDS: There’s no better way to spend hump day than with a fabulous happy hour. Join Adora as she hosts Gettin’ Lucky with Adora. $5 Cha Cha margarits, $6 Finlandia cocktails, and $5 domestics from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

MOVA: Stop by for MOVA’s weekly College Night Wednesdays, hosted by the Penny Back Boyz. While DJ Bryan Zero works the turntables, enjoy a Finlandia open bar from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. followed by $3 Finlandia Cocktails all night long. Located on the corner of Michigan and Lincoln.

PALACE: Stop by the Beach House to enjoy one of Palace’s signature cocktails.

1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Come and spend a pleasant evening on one of Score’s outdoor couches as they host Martini Madness Night.

A half price Happy Hour runs till 9 p.m.

TWIST: It’s time to hit the stage as Sean Brady hosts the Sean Brady Show.

Karaoke and tons of entertainment all night long. After getting your jam on, head over to the main dance floor to snag some beats from DJ Maximus 3000.

Happy Hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. with 2-4-1 on everything. “Never a cover...

Always a groove.”

THE LOVE UNION @ BLUSH BRICKELL PHOTOS BY JUAN SACO MIRONOFF

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