Sexion Q 3-14

www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002 Q1

CYMK Q-COVERstory Film Frenzy Fort Lauderdale Film Fest Features More Gay Films Than Ever Before By Mary Damiano Arts & Entertainment Editor We all know that size really does matter. The Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) is back, and it’s bigger than ever. The festival, now in its 17th year, holds the distinction of being the longest film festival in the world. Though the official gala opening night is Friday, November 1, mini-fests, including the Asian Pacific Film Food of Love (Spain)—A young musician gets swept up in an intense affair with his idol, a handsome, famous pianist, as he and his newly separated mother travel through Europe. Festival, have been going on since Stars Juliet Stevenson and Paul Rhys. Dates: October 31, November 2, 3. October 22. Screenings will take place primarily at Cinema Paradiso and the Devil in the Holy Water (Canada)—Documentary Regal Las Olas Theatre in Fort about the first World Gay Pride Day, which coincides Lauderdale. with the Pope’s Jubilee in Rome, and features a colorful cast of characters, from Neo-Fascists to This year, FLIFF will feature over drag queens. Dates: November 2, 4, 7 (subtitles). 125 films, including nearly a dozen films by gay filmmakers or with gay characters or themes, the greatest number of gay films ever featured at the festival. It’s a Fine Time to be Gay at the Movies

Gregory von Celebration (USA)—A six-year-old boy makes an announcement. (This Short plays before Food Hausch, president of of Love) Dates: October 31, November 2, 3. the festival, says that that FLIFF has tried to get more gay titles in Devil in the Holy Water (Canada)—Documentary about the first World past years, but Gay Pride Day, which coincides with the Pope’s Jubilee in Rome, and features a colorful cast of characters, from Neo-Fascists to drag queens. because gay films have Dates: November 2, 4, 7 (subtitles). become big box office, their film fest window is much shorter than According to von Hausch, FLIFF may other smaller, independent films. soon feature a gay and lesbian mini-fest, much Several of the films featured at the along the same lines as the Asian Pacific Film festival may be familiar to South Florida Festival they have featured for several years. audiences because they were shown at the “I think within one or two years, the event will Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (MGLFF) take place at Cinema Paradiso, in a time frame last spring. Far from being a detraction, von outside of FLIFF but still under our direction.” Hausch sees this as a positive thing. “In some ways it can help through word The Talented Mr. Damon of mouth,” he says. “Festivals must learn to In addition to the vast array of films, work together, especially in light of the fact FLIFF is famous for hosting filmmakers and Blind Spot (USA)—Three Strangers develop a bond when they discover they’ve that there are more and more festivals every year.” special guests. This year, they include Leslie each been cheated by the same man. Dates: November 8 and 9. This year, FLIFF partnered with the local Nielsen, John Philip Law, Amanda Plummer arts organization ArtsUnited to present the and Steve Guttenberg. And FLIFF has just There will also be the Chairman’s Brunch gay films. The November 2 premiere of the announced a real coup—Matt Damon will Hollywood Glamour & Cruise on Sunday, November 3, at 10:05am. new Steve Guttenberg film, P.S Your Cat Is appear in person for a question and answer Takes Center Stage Brunch will be served on board the Caprice, Dead, in which Guttenberg stars and makes session with the audience. Everyone loves a good party, and at as the cruise winds it way through Fort his directorial debut, will be co-presented by Damon, who has appeared in The FLIFF, movies and parties go hand in hand. Lauderdale’s waterways. FLIFF and MGLFF. MGLFF Program Director Talented Mr. Ripley, Dogma and Good Will Parties punctuate this film frenzy, and it all Other parties include the Spanish Fiesta, Carol Coombes states that the screening is Hunting, for which he won an Oscar for gets started Friday, November 1, with the Mexican Fiesta, Fiesta Italiana and the MGLFF’s way of saying thank you to its screenwriting, will be at the Regal Las Olas opening night bash, Movie Masquerade, at Luminaries Awards Gala. The festival will end current members, by offering them an Theatre on Friday, November 8, at 8pm. After the Design Center of the Americas in Dania with a bang, as the November 9 closing night opportunity to attend the South Florida clips from his films are shown, Damon will Beach. Hollywood glamour is the theme. Wrap Party features fireworks. premiere of the film, at a $2 discount on FLIFF field questions from the audience. There will More than 20 local restaurants, including The For a complete rundown of everything ticket prices. Current MGLFF members who be a party afterward, with all proceeds going Black Orchid Cafe, Casa D’Angelo and FLIFF has to offer, including films, events, wish to attend must buy their tickets directly to benefit a friend of Damon’s who is fighting Susie’s Scrumptious Sweets will be parties, prices, times and locations, visit from MGLFF. leukemia. participating in the event. www.Fliff.com.

Q2 www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002

CYMK Q-UPclose Blue Door’s Vino Forays into Book Covers By John Bryson nationwide distribution. boss, who sweeps him off his feet. Hallock called the experience “unexpected, News Editor “I asked the mother during the shoot if “I couldn’t figure out what I wanted to but exciting.” Long known for his work on Blue Door she was all right with how things were going,” do,” Vino said. “The right guy just wasn’t Where the Boys Are was the fourth novel Productions’ yearly wall calendars featuring Vino said. “And she said, ‘Yes, it’s great!’ I jumping out at me. Then I realized I had the in the project and, Vino said, his easiest. male models in sexy and sensual poses, was surprised, but glad, that she was right guy in my own back yard.” That’s because the photo used for the novel Raymond Vino has recently completed a four- comfortable with what I was doing.” Vino’s vision of Andrew was right in the was already taken. book project with Kensington Publishing Vino said the hardest novel for him to Blue Door offices. Josh Hallock, Blue Door’s “That was a circumstance where the Corporation. The publishing company, find a cover for was Boyfriend Material. A marketing director, went in front of the camera publisher and writer liked a shot that I already excited by the results, is now in negotiations novel that features a motley group of friends and became the image of Andrew Westlake. had available,” Vino said. “It was a powerful to sign him up for another four projects. living Sex-in-the-City-type lifestyles, it picture—four guys huddled together with The four books featuring Vino’s required Vino to find four guys who fit very tremendous sexual energy—which made it easy photographic work—The Night We Met, different profiles, were photogenic together to see how it could represent a novel about Boyfriend Material, Where the Boys Are and and comfortable with the idea of being on gay men and the world of circuit parties.” It’s in Her Kiss—are a first for him, an the cover of a gay novel. Vino enjoyed working for Kensington, experience he found challenging. “The chemistry can be difficult to and he is very confident an agreement will “It’s different from shooting for a capture,” Vino said. “You’ve got multiple be worked out soon for him to begin calendar or card, where the vision I’m going people of varying ethnicities. You shooting another series of for is my own,” Vino said. “With a book cover, have to get them all to see your novels. Kensington, which you have to collaborate with the writer and vision, have the right look and bills itself as the last the publisher because the photo has to fit an blend with each other in a manner remaining independent already written story.” that appears genuine and sexy. It’s a U.S. publisher of hardcover, In particular, Vino said It’s In Her Kiss tough task, and I was lucky. They were trade and mass market was the first time he had ever had the perfect!” paperback books, is also opportunity to do a photo shoot for the cover The third novel, The Night We Met, recognized as North America’s of a lesbian novel. To add to the challenge, provides an interesting story behind the largest publisher of gay novels. the mother of one of the models was present cover itself, not to mention the novel. Vino All but one of the novels have on the set—at Vino’s invitation—because said he struggled to find a model that would been released. If you are interested she was concerned about her daughter. A help him portray the image of Andrew in finding out more about Vino’s work, natural instinct, Vino said, for a mother whose Westlake, a young author whose fortunes in visit www.bluedoorproductions.com. daughter would be portraying a lesbian girl New York City appear to have left him in the Information on the novels is available at on the cover of a novel that would have dumps—until he meets the son of a mafia www.kensingtonbooks.com.

www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002 Q3

CYMK ne-time Latin Rascal, It is strange sometimes to assume freestyle pioneer and that our world is limited to what is close present-day in-demand to us. People have asked me at different producer Tony Moran has times, “What have you been doing?” or a lot of credits to his name. “I haven’t heard about you in so long!” I OHe’s a renowned songwriter, acclaimed club have done everything from freestyle DJ, hot record producer, club remixer and, music to just recently recording a pop with the release of the soundtrack to the album for a girl named Martine movie Circuit, Tony Moran is also a record McCucheon with the London Symphony label mogul. He recently took some time Orchestra. It sold over a million albums out of his busy, globetrotting schedule to there, but no one ever knew. Right now, I answer a few questions for an interview. am working on Kevin Aviance’s album Gregg Shapiro: You’ve worked and, though it is a dance album, it will with some of the biggest names in the touch on some deeper sounds as well as music industry, including Celine, what it is that I am most known for. In the Janet, Patti and Gloria. Do you have future, I would like to continue scoring any diva dish or dirt to share with the on different movie and television readers? projects. Tony Moran: When you are on the Emerge Records is the record label level that these artists are at, my experience that you started in collaboration with is that almost nothing runs smoothly until Centaur Music. What does it mean to be you actually get them in the recording running a record label? booth. It can get frustrating to wait longer Running a record label is something than you have to for some of them just to that I decided to do, fully understanding arrive, like it was for Cher (two days to be that I could never do it without partners. exact). But, how quickly the drama fades It is still a lot of work because you are away as you get into the creative process not only focused on getting your and you start joking around and singing creativity on vinyl, but I am now working back and forth with them. I’ve never had with a lot of other talented people to get anybody scream at me or try to make me some other music out there. That is the feel inferior, but I did asks Patti LaBelle’s real reason for wanting to do it. So that I designer to wait outside because I would can help that new talent get the not let her try on dresses on my time! opportunity to get their music showcased Is there anyone with whom you haven’t and to be treated fairly and with yet worked that would be a dream come understanding because with me it is not true for you? all about the money! My Partners Nick I would have to say that it would be Debiasi and Amy Chanos also add to the Madonna first and George Michael second. creative input of the company, but they I remixed “Fast Love” for George a couple also handle the other business and of years back, and it was the only mix that promotional tasks that have equal I have ever done that was turned down. importance when it comes to running a Every one else’s mixes were turned down company. also, but it still hurt. What kind of plans do you have for Do you think that being gay gives you Emerge? an advantage over some of the straight After Kevin’s album, I want to work producers/remixers/DJs working in the on putting out singles for a while. I have dance music industry? written a bunch of songs that I am so I have found that as a record producer excited about and want to finish them up and songwriter that it has not. The majority to put them out next year. of the people who make the decisions for You’ve been in the music business the artists themselves don’t really care for over 20 years. If your life had taken a about that. They normally care about hit different direction and you weren’t songs and a competent producer who can involved with music, what do you think take it there. As a DJ, you find yourself you would be doing? socializing in circles that increase your I went to college to become an visibility with a particular genre, so, of electrical engineer, but I probably would course, it increases opportunity if you have have gotten frustrated with it and would a track record of making hits in that genre. probably own a couple of Starbucks I do have to say though that for the most coffee shops right now. part, records that have become gay As busy as you are, do you have time anthems normally wind up crossing over for romance? into the straight clubs, becoming just as Absolutely! popular if not more. I, myself, prefer playing Are you currently in a relationship? in the gay clubs because I do it for the I am lucky enough to be in love with connection and return that I get from the someone for the last three years who I energy of my brothers out there. I am not feel loves me just as much. We talk and trying to be corny, but after being in this legitimately want to know how the other business for so long and having so much one feels. It takes a lot of understanding success through the eyes of others, for me, to handle a partner who has a career that true success came the moment that I became takes you in so many directions all the comfortable with who I was, and that was time. All the late hours and all the different the day that I felt I had truly achieved people, but we have found our way with something significant. a minimum of drama and no screaming. Is there another musical genre, in We have a wonderful life together which you haven’t yet worked, that you because what is most important to each might be interested in exploring? of us is the other.

Grammy-nominated DJ/remixer/ producer Tony Moran will be spinning at crobar in South Beach Miami on Sunday, November 10th. Go to www.centaurmusic.com to get your copy of his latest continuous mix Hotlanta HEAR IT Q4 www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002

CYMK Q-OUTsound Musical Soul Mates Acoustic Duo CommonbonD Releases new CD By Mary Damiano that rockin’ blues.” Arts & Entertainment Editor The duo’s current musical favorites No one could ever call Mary Beth de include Norah Jones and Edwin McCain Pompa and Ashley Miller, the two women They recently began their own company, who make up the acoustic duo Get Bonded productions, to produce their CommonbonD, divas or prima donnas. own CDs and eventually, other artists as well. At a recent show at Kicks in Wilton Chasing Solace is the first release. They Manors to celebrate the release of their latest shop around at the music festivals they play CD, Chasing Solace, the women hung out looking for talent. “We know the cost of with fans before and after their sets, signing recording can be outrageously expensive, CDs and chatting. and we hope to help up and coming singer This genuine ability to relate just as well songwriters to curb the cost and get a decent to their audience as they do to each other on product,” says de Pompa. stage is the key ingredient to CommonbonD’s success. Their “just one of the girls” attitude shines through in their music, a mixture of blues and folk with plenty of acoustic soul, with the emphasis on their voices and lyrics everyone can relate to. They even tailor their sets to fit the audience’s mood. “We like playing our set around the energy that’s in the room,” Miller says. “If they’re loud and rowdy, we’re loud and rowdy. If they’re more mellow, we try and tone it down a little bit.” CommondbonD has built a large following since they met 10 years ago, when de Pompa’s group played Miller’s Blue Ridge Mountain college town. The two hooked up after the show and found they shared a musical common bond, hence their name. They began playing together formally CommonbonD tours extensively. two years later. Chasing Solace is their Their schedule has taken them to about 40 fourth CD. They’ve also released a six song states, including Alaska. Miller points out Christmas set. that they don’t find the tour schedule Chasing Solace captures unusual because they’ve been doing it for CommondbonD’s eclectic style. On stage, de so long. “Wherever the music takes us, Pompa and Miller are both in sync with each we’ll go,” Miller says. “We’re not really other yet are complementary as well. While sit-still kind of girls.” their harmonies are flawless, de Pompa is the Miller has been with her girlfriend for more extroverted of the two, lending balance eight years, and de Pompa has been with to Miller, the quiet, introspective musician. hers for six. “I feel like we are really more together as They agree that they have found a I could ever be by myself,” Miller says. balance between their home lives and tour “Mary is always right in tune. Wherever I’m schedule. “You have to work at it, and when going musically, she’s probably already you come home, you have to make that there. We have gotten to where we hardly special time,” Miller says. Their partners join even need to talk about stuff anymore. We them for the more exotic tour dates, like on connect on the same level.” cruise ships. “We fill each other’s gap,” says de South Florida will get another Pompa. opportunity to see CommonbonD when they Both de Pompa and Miller bring their perform at the second annual women’s music own diverse musical background to festival, Calliope Fest, which will take place CommonbonD. Miller recalls crawling up on at Young Circle in Hollywood the last her mom’s piano bench and playing weekend of March 2003. “Chopsticks” with her, while de Pompa’s Both de Pompa and Miller agree that musical tastes were shaped by her brothers’ the audience makes their busy schedule love of rock and roll and her mother’s worthwhile. “Seeing people smile because penchant for Frank Sinatra. they like your music is the most awesome “When I saw Bonnie Raitt perform when feeling in the world,” de Pompa says. I was 15, I knew I wanted to play like that,” “We’ve met the nicest people out there de Pompa says. “Girls don’t play guitar like on the road,” Miller says. “And we want to Bonnie Raitt, at least not then. She added play for anyone who will listen.”

www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002 Q5

CYMK Q-MOVIEreview Elvira’s Haunted Hills Is Cursed New Film Is Filled with Mediocre Jokes and Poor Parody By Solace Pryde notes—lots of notes. The audience for this rickety spoof is Her Mae-West-meets-Vampira shtick probably limited to three groups: diehard fans worked surprisingly well in 1988’s Elvira, of Elvira, cultists of ’60s Mistress of the Dark, horror (it is intentionally a which is actually a pretty Roger Corman homage good flick. However, this piece) and people who movie simply runs out of believe rim-shot, borscht material halfway through. belt humor ought to be In her first film, Elvira brought back. came off as a smart and The last group witty character. In this apparently includes one, she simply sounds Cassandra Peterson, the bitter and bitchy. comedian who dreamed One saving grave— up Elvira and the err, grace—is Rocky screenwriter who has Horror playwright and brought us the second star Richard O’Brien, who serving of Elvira. contributes some Her fondness for amusing ravings as a vaudeville one-liners is mysterious castle owner, either groan-worthy or pining away for a dead infectious, depending on wife who suspiciously your tolerance for such things. An example resembles Elvira. of such ramblings includes: Cassandra and her manager/husband Dr Bradley Bradley: “The village people Mark Pierson shopped this flick around for say this castle is evil.” nearly a year trying to pick up a theatrical Elvira: “Ah, who listens to the Village distribution deal to recoup the $1 million they People any more?” siphoned from their retirement funds to Keep in mind that it is supposed to be finance the film. They had to settle for a road 19th century Carpathia (I’m sure the Village show and a DVD release through Good Times People didn’t perform at their local YMCA). Entertianment. If you thought that one-liner was bad, you For more information, visit her website really should watch the whole film and take at www.Elvira.com.

Q6 www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002

CYMK Q CulturalEvents

Events November 1 – January 5: A Chorus Line – Michael Bennett’s legendary tribute to show Tuesday & Wednesday, October 29 & 30: dancers, winner of The Pulitzer Prize and nine Gay and Lesbian Wedding Seminar - Find out Tony Awards, is a must see musical. Performances the secrets to hiring the right professionals for your are at the Stage Door’s 26th Street Theatre,1444 commitment ceremony and reception. Tuesday: NE 26th Street in Wilton Manors. For performance 6:30pm. Location TBA. Wednesday: 6:30pm at times and tickets call 954.344.7765. Boca Dunes Country Club. $15/couple. For Fridays: Separate Checks- Spice up your information call Suzy Q Productions 954.563.2529. night with South Florida’s favorite Comedy Friday – Sunday, November 1 – 3: 4th Improv Troupe, where you the audience create Annual Garlic Festival – Inspired by the world the show! (Bring odd objects to be used in the famous Garlic Festival in Gilroy, California, The show.) Every Friday night at 9:30pm at the Blue Delray Beach Garlic Fest is the most unique culinary Box, upstairs at the Hollywood Playhouse, 2640 arts and food festival in South Florida. The main Washington Street. Admission is $7/adults, $5/ attraction, Gourmet Alley, is the heart of the students. For more information call festival. There is also live entertainment and a 954.327.9159. children’s area. Friday 5 – 11pm, Saturday 10am – Fridays and Saturdays: Just the Funny 11pm, Sunday 10am – 6pm at Old School Square in – Whose Line is it Anyway meets Saturday Night Delray Beach. Children under 12 free, no pets or Live. Performances are Friday and Saturday nights coolers permitted. For information call at 11pm at Dreamers Theatre, 65 Almeria Avenue 561.278.0424 or 561.279.1380, ext. 17 or visit in Coral Gables. Tickets are $10. For information www.dbgarlicfest.com. call 305.69.FUNNY or visit www.justthefunny.com. Friday – Sunday, November 1 – 3: 16th Annual Sound Advice Blues Festival - Features Continuous Music, Cool Blues Kids Zone, Acoustic Music Stage, Sports Tent, Cultural Workshop Area, Arts & Tuesday, October 29: No Doubt – 7:30pm Crafts Vendors and much more. Friday 5 – 11pm, at Office Depot Center, 2555 Panther Drive in Saturday 11am – 11pm, Sunday 11am – 7:30pm at Sunrise. $36. For tickets call 954.835.8000 or Fort Lauderdale Stadium, 1201 NW 55th Street. Ticketmaster. For information call 954.828.5934. Friday, November 1: Al Jarreau – 8pm at Friday, November 1: Drama Kings – Sister the Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Boulevard in Speak presents Drama Kings, where women can be kings West Palm Beach. $15 – 45. For tickets and for a night. Showtime is 10:30pm at J’s Bar, 2780 Davie information call 561.832.7469. Boulevard. There is no cover charge before 11pm. For Saturday, November 2: Elvis Costello – information or to sign up as a performer, call With Laura Cantrell, 8pm at the Jackie Gleason 954.772.0324 or go to www.sisterspeak.org. Theater, 1700 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach. Saturday, November 2: Sister Speak 1.800.535.2929 or Ticketmaster. EXPO – This expo is the grand finale event to a Saturday, November 2: Enrique Iglesias series of free workshops for female artists. – 7:30pm at American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Refreshments will be served and Sister Speak’s very Boulevard in Miami, 305.960.8500. own DJ Candy Cane will provide music. The event Sunday, November 6: Jazz Brunch - Enjoy is 7 – 10pm at the GLCC, 1717 N. Andrews Avenue, gourmet brunch and entertainment showcasing Fort Lauderdale. For more information about this South Florida’s finest jazz musicians on five stages Free event, please visit www.sisterspeak.org, e-mail at the Riverwalk in Downtown Fort Lauderdale. [email protected] or call the Sister Speak hotline This weekend’s performers are: Lola & the Sass at 954.772.0324. band, Johnny “Dr. J” James, Leo Casino & the Florida Sunday, November 3: WIN Turkey Trot T- Players. Tommy Nehls and Jump ‘n’ Jive.11am – 2 Dance - Fall/Thanksgiving themed dance and food pm. Free. For more information call the Jazz Brunch drive for All Saints Catholic Mission. Free raffle Hotline 954.828.5985. ticket for every food item you bring. 2-4-1 drinks. Friday, November 8: CHER – Living Proof Music by Doreen Daniels, One Woman Band. 4 – Farewell Tour with Cyndi Lauper, One Last Time. 8pm at Cathode Ray Club, 1307 E. Las Olas American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Boulevard Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale. Admission is $10 for in Miami, 305.960.8500. WIN Members and $15 for Non-Members. Friday, November 8: Eve – 8pm at the Sunday, November 3: 20th Annual Knight Center, 400 SE 2nd Avenue in Miami. Dolphin Democratic Club Awards Banquet - Ticketmaster. 6:30pm – midnight at the Fort Lauderdale Westin Hotel in Cypress Creek. For information and tickets Art Exhibitions please contact Event Chairperson Jeffrey Through October 31: Alan Lake - DeMontmorency at 954.467.6748. ArtsUnited exhibits the art of Alan Lake at the Sunday, November 17: WIN Creative Art Stonewall Library and Archives Gallery, 1717 N. Series Art Auction - Donations are being accepted Andrews Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. Admission is for any type of artwork such as photography, free. watercolor, jewelry, dolls, stained glass, paintings, Through November 10: In the Spirit of sketches, sculpture, etc. Proceeds will be shared 50/ Martin: The Living Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther 50 with the artist and Women in Network. 1 - 4pm King Jr. – Artists present works inspired by the civil at Artserve, 1350 E. Sunrise Boulevard. $5 for rights leader. Bass Museum of Art, 2121 Park Avenue, members, $8 non-members. Please call Helen at Miami Beach. For information call 305.673.7530. 954.922.6844. Through December 5: In Transit – A multi- media memorial to the tragic events of one year Live Theatre and Dance ago. Museum of Art, 1 East Las Olas Boulevard, Through November 3: Zombie Prom - Take 954.525.5500. the Rocky Horror Show, mix in a little Grease, top Through January 5, 2003: You Look it off with a Little Shop of Horrors and you’ve got Beautiful Like That – 71 black and white portraits the original, very funny musical Zombie Prom! by Seydou Keita and Malick Sidibe from both before Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 and after Mali’s struggle for independence from Southwest 5th Avenue. For information and tickets France in 1960. Norton Museum of Art, 1451 S. call 954.462.0222 or 1.800.564.9539. Olive Avenue in West Palm Beach. For information Through November 10: The Legend of call 561.832.5196. Sleepy Hollow - A Halloween tradition and one of Through January 31: Urban Outsider and America’s first important short stories, this spooky Visionary Folk: The Works of Purvis Young and favorite will entertain children of all ages. All seats Minnie Evans - Purvis Young, legendary as a vibrant $8. Performances are Saturdays & Sundays at 11am force in the Miami art world, portrays his own unique at Hollywood Playhouse, 2640 Washington Street. view of the world. Minnie Evans, a North Carolina- For information or to purchase tickets call the Box born “visionary” artist, paints her dreams. Museum Office: 954.922.0404 Mon. - Fri. 10am – 5pm. of Art, 100 East Las Olas Boulevard. For Through November 10: Company - This information call 954.525.5500. Broadway classic written by Stephen Sondheim Through February 2: El Viaje -The Journey opened in 1970 and won 6 Tony Awards. Robert, a - Jewish Artists and Poets of Latin America - Works 35 year old bachelor, is enjoying being single in by 18 artists and poets depict their own families’ New York until his best friends (5 married couples) journeys, as well as vignettes of 30 Florida Latin decide he’s unhappy and try to find him a wife. Jewish families. Jewish Museum of Florida, 301 Stage Door Theatre, 8036 W. Sample Road, Coral Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, 305.672.5044. Springs. For performance times and tickets call 954.344.7765. Radio Through December 8: The Lion King - The Norm Kent Show – He’s Back! One of the most beloved films of all time is Interviews and commentary with Norm Kent, Broadway’s hottest show! Winner of the 1998 Tony weekday mornings at 8am on WFTL 1400 AM. Award for Best Musical, The Lion King is a The Call-In Line is 1.877.644.1400. breathtaking spectacle miraculously brought to life Issues Over the Rainbow - MarkyG hosts by a cast of over 40 actors. Broward Center for the this gay and lesbian early morning talk show. Sunday Performing Arts, 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue. For mornings at 6:30am on PARTY 93.1 FM. information and tickets call 954.462.0222 or www.Party931.com 1.800.564.9539. Through January 5: What the Rabbi Saw – A Crazy slapstick farce takes pre-wedding jitters Television to nightmare proportions. At Stage Door Theatre, SoFla Q TV- Television for the alternative 8036 W. Sample Road, Coral Springs. For lifestyle. For information call 305.534.3975 or visit performance times and tickets call 954.344.7765. www.soflaqtv.com.

www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002 Q7

CYMK Heard It Through the Gayvine Queers, Quotes and Quips of Interest

The Sweet Smell of Penis Designer Tom Ford, who was a fashion trendsetter for years with Gucci, is breaking a taboo in the realm of advertising by featuring full-frontal male nudity in an ad for his new Yves Saint Laurent men’s fragrance. The black-and-white print campaign for the M7 fragrance features a reclining model— Samuel de Cubber—who is also a former martial arts champion, according to Reuters. The ad began appearing on Thursday in a variety of fashion magazines, mostly in Europe. “Perfume is worn on the skin, so why hide the body?” Ford said in a statement. “The M7 campaign is really pure. It’s a very academic nude.” Some mainstream publishers, however, will feature a cropped version of the ad. A representative of Genre, a gay men’s lifestyle monthly magazine that features fashion editorial, said he would publish the ad if given the chance. “Of course I would run the ad,” said Doug Shingleton, associate publisher of Genre, noting that the magazine regularly features artistic nude photography. “The photo is artistic, not gratuitous.” Ford, who is openly gay, took over as artistic director of the YSL ready-to-wear and perfume divisions in 2000. University students paid to test condoms Fashion and advertising reporters have noted that University students in Great Britain are being offered the chance to earn £100 a term the hairy-chested model in the ad may also signal a testing condoms. Manufacturer Condomi says it expects to be inundated with requests trend away from the hairless ideal of male beauty that to take part in the “rigour pleasure tests.” Advertisements for testers began running in has been common in advertising for companies such as Calvin Klein and Abercrombie & university newspapers and on student radio stations across the U.K. and Ireland on Fitch. Friday. “I wanted to show a man who represents a natural and relaxed image of male beauty,” To be picked, students must be in a relationship already (straight or gay), Condomi Ford said. said. The company expects to initially recruit about 100 testers. Shingleton noted that a Genre fashion spread in the June 2002 issue with hairy Victoria Wells, marketing manager, said, “We are always looking for ways to improve models received a “tremendous response” from readers. our condoms, so using the feedback from eager consumers seems an ideal opportunity of “I think the trend is for a more masculine figure, and that includes showing body testing every aspect of our performance.” hair,” he said. “Test results will be fed back to our research and development department, and we The campaign comes two years after YSL relaunched its women’s perfume Opium hope that the students who participate will both enjoy the testing and the money, and with an ad featuring a nude female model. The campaign elicited protests that led to the give us a frank response, which we can use for product development,” Wells said. “I removal of billboard ads in England. don’t think we will have to look far for our new employees.” Source: PlanetOut.com Source: Ananova.com

Q8 www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002

CYMK www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002 Q9

CYMK Q-DINNER and a show Dumb and Dumber ‘What the Rabbi Saw’ Is Farce at its Worst By Mary Damiano Arts & Entertainment Three Stooges gene: Genetic anomaly, usually carried by human males, characterized by the enjoyment of the lowest form of nonsensical comedy—which sometimes involves mild violence—and named for the comedy trio who epitomized the style. If you were born with the Three Stooges gene, you will probably love What the Rabbi Saw, the current production at the Broward Stage Door Theatre in Coral Springs. I was not born with the Three Stooges gene. What the Rabbi Saw is full of exaggerated situations, improbable plots and over-the top characters. It is a farce, but it’s not a good farce. I can’t describe the plot of What the Rabbi Saw because to say it had a plot would be stretching it. The very short play—about 90 minutes with an intermission—involves a wedding. The maid of honor is sleeping with the groom, the bride is sleeping with the best man, and nobody wants to get caught by anybody else. Toss in a jealous hit man, a flaming wedding planner, a sex-kitten singer and the parents of the bride. The title rabbi is thrown in, but in keeping with the theme of the piece, his presence makes no sense. dumb characters do dumber things. The whole lot. Hope Feifer is a breathtaking bride, So, what did the rabbi see? Well, if he That’s really about it. The most audience the night I saw it laughed, but from Jon Hensley is appropriately high-strung as saw this production, he didn’t see a very disappointing thing about What the Rabbi the comments I heard, they wondered why the the wedding planner and Michaela Cronan good play. Saw is that it has all the makings for a show had no plot but were happy they would is the voice of reason as the maid of honor. What the Rabbi Saw runs through sparkling little comedy—a wedding, wacky get home in time for The Sopranos and Alias. There is one very neat little sight gag right January 5 at the Broward Stage Door Theatre, situations and whacked-out characters. The actors do the best they can with out of a Roadruunner cartoon, but that’s 8036 W. Sample Rd., Coral Springs. Call Instead, the whole thing consists of watching what they’ve got to work with, which is not a about the only clever moment. 954.344.7765 for tickets and showtimes.

Q10 www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002

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www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002 Q11

CYMK Need Wood? m4m4sex.com By Woody Miller Hey woody! could so easily lie about? I could tell you 9 we meet, you’re out the door if I unzip and and refused to play the size game. The stupid I met this guy online, we traded pictures inches and how would you know until you turn out to be average? Or even bigger than thing is that I really DO have a big dick and if and, oh my God, I thought I’d beat off right unzipped my pants? average but not WELL above average? I would have just told him that I’d have gotten then and there. I wanted him worse than Bush Hotsex4U: You’re right, and if you’re Hotsex4U: Yep. Might as well be head from my fantasy guy. wants Saddam Hussein. But when we not WELL above average I would honest—that’s why I asked. But I just don’t want to play that game. started chatting, he turned me off because leave—so don’t waste your time Jockwithbrains: It’s honest; I’ll give It’s degrading to have your worth be he was such a size queen. He ended up if you’re small or average. you that. determined by the size of your dick. Yes, I’d ignoring my IMs, and there I was, Mr. Jockwithbrains: Hotsex4U: ;>) win the game more than I’d lose, but it’s a Lost Opportunity. Wow. So even though Jockwithbrains: And you, pray tell, no-win game, because someone’s always Would you read the “transcript” of you think I’m hot and must have at least 8 inches, right? bigger than you. I don’t want sex to be about a chat I had with him so you know what even if there’s great Otherwise, you’re going to be very winning or losing; I want it to be about, well, I’m dealing with? At the end I have some chemistry when embarrassed when I unzip you. sex. questions for you. I was on a website Hotsex4U: Yes, it’s honest. And I’m I’m not some starchy prude—hell I have called m4m4sex.com and my screen bigger than 8 inches, btw. just as many one-nighters as the rest of my name was “jockwithbrains.” Jockwithbrains: Well, if that’s friends. Do you think I’m wrong? Should I Jockwithbrains: Dude, you true I guess you’re putting your just have measured myself, told him how big are SO my type. Let’s hook up. money where your mouth is. I was and had him come over? It just feels Hotsex4U: How big? Hotsex4U: Yes, but it doesn’t like if I do that I sink to his level. I’m really Jockwithbrains: Come really matter how big I am. I’m only torn over this. On the one hand I stuck to my over and measure it. interested in servicing another man’s principles. On the other hand, I could have Hotsex4U: LOL. cock. had a hottie if I would have just kept my trap Jockwithbrains: Come Jockwithbrains: Well, like I said, shut. What do you think, woody? Am I on, man, we live in the same I’ve never measured myself. I mean I nuts? neighborhood. Let’s hook up. know I’m bigger than most of the guys —Victorian Whore Hotsex4U: Cool, but how I sleep with but if you’re looking for How did woody answer? Stay tuned big are you? a monster cock, I’m not your man. next week for the meat cleaver that he will Jockwithbrains: Never Hotsex4U: Later, man. surely wield in his response. measured myself. Jockwithbrains: ? Hotsex4U: Well, you must Hotsex4U: I want dick, not have some idea. drama…. Anyway, that was it Jockwithbrains: Why are woody. He just signed off. I lost Need Wood? Ask woody how to spice you asking me something I out because I stood on principle up your sex life. E-mail him at [email protected].

Q12 www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002

CYMK www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002 Q13

CYMK By Charlene Lichtenstein For the week of 10/28/02

Cast your vote for a winner this November as the Sun wanders from Scorpio to Sagittarius. But mind your Ps and Qs buster as Venus, Uranus and Saturn retrograde through the month. With these balls of love, surprises and nasty lessons the real question is - will you notch your belt... or your heart? ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 20) Love for sale? Check the price before you buy, gay Ram. Retro Venus overcharges you through the 21st but will exceed your wildest temptations after that. Uranus delivers more fun than you can handle. Hmmm, how much fun can you handle, pal...? TAURUS (APRIL 21 - MAY 21) Balance is everything queer Bull so juggle those balls and smile. Your sex life heats up around the 23rd when the Sun dips into Sag. But life is more than a quick shot in the dark, loverbull; Venus directs on the 21st and hones your style, thank goodness! GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) Pink Twins don’t usually shoot from the lip, but you can’t help it. Innocuous things that you let slip after the 4th reach global proportions and overturn the landscape. Expect petty tantrums at work through the 21st. You move from drone to drone on. CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) How accurate is your intuition? Pink Crabs may be tempted to go to the Outer limits through most of November but will find static on the psychic line. Make this Thanksgiving an all Out affair. You and the turkey should be stuffed and trussed. LEO (JULY 24 - AUGUST 23) You are voted most likely to this November but all that unfettered sex proves to be more expensive than first thought. Reassess your social circle. Are you on the “A” list or something lower on the scale? (And does “A” stands for asshole?) VIRGO (AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23) Feed your inner soul, gay Virgo. Nirvana is attained through a bowl of ice cream...or is it through exercise... or is it through contemplation? Crack the cosmic egg after the 4th then fire off a missive that catapults the rainbow cause. Shout Out ! Get heard! LIBRA (SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23) Queer Libras are raring to go go go this November but be careful of burning out before the party gets going, going, gone. You realize that the dreamboat who cruised into your port may be a destroyer. However you happen to pack a fairly big gun yourself... SCORPIO (OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22) It’s tough to climb the corporate ladder when family ties bind. The straight jacket loosens after the 4th but then queer Scorps face intimacy issues when Saturn packs a whip in every dollop of whipped cream. Get quiet time away from the stuffed turkeys and baked hams. SAGITTARIUS (NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 22) How much of yourself are you prepared to give up to form a partnership, gay Archer? Mergers and acquisitions take place towards the end of the month resulting in a change of personal taste. Isn’t it time to give up that party poodle with purple leather shorts type? CAPRICORN (DECEMBER 23 - JANUARY 20) Pink Caps adjust their personal compasses this November when even minor tremors on the job reverberate on the Richter scale. Be prepared to overturn some established life tenets. A new broom sweeps clean or at least pushes the dust around. AQUARIUS (JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19) Are you headed in the right direction? Set a new course when Venus redirects on the 21st. Aqueerians experience an “expansion” thanks to retro Uranus. Volcanic changes occur in how you appear to others. Is piercing your forehead a fashion statement? PISCES (FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20) Everything you value will be held up for inspection. Revelations abound especially before the 23rd when the Sun sits in contemplative Scorpio. Remember, Guppie, you only have to live up to your own standards, tacky and lurid as they may be.

© 2002 MADAM LICHTENSTEIN, LLC., All Rights Reserved.For Entertainment Purposes Only. Check out her site www.AccessNewAge.com/Stargayzer for egreetings, horoscopes and Pride jewelry. Her book “HerScopes; A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians” from Simon & Schuster is available at bookstores and major booksites.

Q14 www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002

CYMK Pumping It Up with Maximum Volume New Album Releases

Supreme Beings of Leisure: Divine Operating System (Palm) Divine Operating System is the second effort from Supreme Beings of Leisure, a duo consisting of musician Ramin Sakurai and vocalist and writer Geri Soriano- Lightwood. Pop this CD in the player and don’t be surprised if a mirror ball starts swirling around you. Electronica, dance and soul mixes easily on this disc. The odd thing about Divine Operating System is that it sounds like the soundtrack to a movie that doesn’t exist—a ’70s spy movie or retro erotic thriller, perhaps. Rather than standing alone, the songs sound like they were written to complement a story.

Soriano-Lightwood’s voice is intriguing—soaring and seductive. It’s easy to get swept away with the Dilemma/ Nelly Featuring Kelly Rowland combination of her style and her lyrics. 1. “Catch Me” is one of the better cuts on the CD, featuring a Brazilian twinge and recalling several one-hit- 2. Like I Love You/ Justin Timberlake wonder dance groups from the ’70s. “Get Away” is bombastic but sexy, and “So Much More” is the most sexual piece on the disc, sort of a slow-building musical orgasm. 3. A Moment Like This/ Kelly Clarkson Divine Operating System is a worthwhile disc, even though it feels like there should be a movie to go along Heaven/ DJ Sammy with it. 4. 5. Lose Yourself/ Eminem 6. Complicated/ Avril Lavigne 7. Work It/ Missy”Misdemeanor”Elliott Idia.Arie Voyage to India 8. Underneath It All / No Doubt feat. Lady Saw (Motown) 9. One Last Breath/ Creed India.Arie is a breath of fresh air in an industry often polluted by stagnant sameness. Her voice, clear and rich, washes over its listener like a spring rain 10. Cleaning Out My Closet/ Eminem shower, unexpected and welcome. After making a splash with her winning debut album, Acoustic Soul, Arie is back, and her sophomore effort fulfills the promise of the first disc. Arie revels in acoustic guitar and poetic, yet straightforward lyrics. Nikki Nite Y100 • Miami 100.7 The theme of the album is captured in its title, Voyage to India, and Midday’s 10am-2pm • Monday Thru Friday illustrated in several short songs, “Growth,” “Healing” and “Gratitude,” which serve as musical statements. The lyrics are a personal testimony from someone www.Y100.Miami.Com who has taken the time to examine her life and has decided to share her discoveries. [email protected] You can’t help but groove to this disc. The songs, for the most part, sashay along, segueing perfectly into each other. “Heading in the Right Direction” has a lilting bounce to it and is the kind of song you can sing along with after hearing it just once. “Can I Walk With You” is toe-tapping soul. Intricate is the best way to describe “Complicated Melody,” a lovely set of lyrics set to simple acoustic guitar. Voyage to India is a dangerous CD. Once you put it on, you’ll be compelled to kick back and while away the Readonline day at a secluded beach or in a backyard hammock. India.Arie is truly food for the soul. www.OURweeklynews.com

www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002 Q15

CYMK Expressitorials [email protected] Letters to the editor A Contribution to the Discussion of The Dade Human Rights Foundation/Gay and Lesbian Foundation of South Florida In response to an offer from Norm Kent, I Human Rights Campaign dinners across the Reno and dozens of local political leaders. The netted about $160,000 from gross receipts of have prepared some thoughts about the current country, and to do so before HRC returned to Florida Dinner raised $52,000 from a gross of $193,000 or $330,000, or 48 percent—a sharp improvement community discussion about the Dade Human to take the profits back to Washington for their 27.1 percent—an improvement, but at least $15,000 and certainly in the range of acceptable dinner event Rights Foundation/Gay and Lesbian Foundation exclusive use. The adopted goal suggested that a less than anticipated. Why? The combined review returns. Moreover, it was honored by a speech by of South Florida. I do so as an dinner with over 1,000 by the Dinner and the Finance Committees of the Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton; its Humanitarian individual, not as a representative people, higher ticket price, board found that proper financial controls had not award to local activist Lee Brian Schrager was of the foundation. I do so from corporate sponsorships, been in place and that several decisions—made by sponsored by the Miami Herald and presented in what I have learned from my participation by nationally staff without Dinner Committee or board approval person by the publisher, Alberto Ibarguen; participation on the Finance, prominent and locally non- — reflected poor judgment. Honest mistakes, yes. internationally renowned Nestor Torres helped open Development and Dinner gay individuals would Intentional or cavalier disregard for the community, the evening; and Latin Grammy’s Best New Artist Committees and from my roles as enhance our local coffers and no. Nevertheless, the dinner was a major step and local Miamian, Jorge Moreno, closed the an event volunteer and occasional make important political and forward, disappointing as it was, and a significant evening. advisor to board members and social statements. Among investment for future growth—in profit and in Was the evening a success? Yes, in every executive directors. other things, it was hoped prestige for the community. respect. Did it achieve each of its goals? Yes It is my hope that by putting that an aggressively Following the dinner, in December 2001, the Is there room for improvement? Of course. some of the discussion in a brief expanded scope for the board was presented with a written strategy for the Lessons learned are providing the backdrop to the historic context, the debate will be dinner would contribute to 2002 Dinner. That strategy was prepared by those board for its goal-setting for Seventh Recognition illuminated. Financial analysis is Stephen E. Herbits building a defense against the who had led the just completed event. It contained Dinner. essential to the well-being of any emerging threat of a repeal a set of goals for board consideration, including the Some are unhappy with two of the people organization, but numbers alone are insufficient for of the December 1998 Miami-Dade County following: “1. Grow perception of the gay associated with the dinner. My only hope is that a fair and full understanding of those numbers. What amendment, which includes sexual orientation in community as an important, integral party of the those who are complaining the loudest never do follows seeks to provide some background, history its Human Rights Ordinance. A new group of larger community; 2. expand the number of attendees anything for which they have to ask forgiveness, and context and is done so in the hope that on volunteers was asked to take on that project. The from Miami-Dade County; 3. expand the number pay their dues and, at the same time, give as much reflection, both the past and future of our dinner, then, had a specific strategy to engage the of attendees from Broward County; 4. expand the back to the community. community’s leading organization will garner more straight leadership and enhance equal rights. number of straight attendees; 5. expand the number community participation and support. In November 2000, the Recognition dinner of straight community leader attendees; 6. target an A Brief Review of the was moved to a new location, 500 people attended, audience of 1,200.” GLFSF’s Management and 2002 Recognition Dinner two national figures—one straight, one gay—and The volunteer dinner committee was asked to In November 1999, DHRF’s Third Recognition three local gay leaders, accepted awards. The dinner pursue those goals. The understanding at the time Structural Development Dinner not only didn’t generate much profit from raised a net of $27,000 for an event with that there was a much greater likelihood of an anti- In February 1999, the board authorized the its 400 plus attendees but also was a program failure dramatically new, high-production qualities and gay ballot initiative to repeal the sexual orientation hiring of its first director of events. My and a public relations disappointment. The broad created a “buzz” in the community. anti-discrimination provision of the County understanding of the intent of the board was to consensus from those attending was that it would In November 2001, building on the success of Human Rights Ordinance—a referendum that, in professionalize its major source of income, the not be worth returning the next year. the previous year, the Recognition Dinner sold 825 fact, did become a reality. In addition, the board Winter Party, up to then led exclusively by Following that event, the board adopted a long- tickets, showcased the Democratic Leader of the agreed to raise the ticket price, selected a location volunteers. The specific goal was to obtain a term vision for its second most important source of U.S. House of Representatives and Cyndi Lauper, and selected at least one local honoree. significant increase in the profit from each event, funds: to model itself after the highly successful and was attended by former Attorney General Janet The October 2002 dinner hosted 1,200 guests, See HERBITS on page 25

Q16 www.ExpressGayNews.com • October 28, 2002

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