I'm a Fortunate Homosexual Man

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emember the time when many of your friends were living large with beautiful apartments or homes courtesy of a large mortgage? I do. To- Rafa Carvajal day, several of them have lost their apartments and Publisher/Editor in Chief homes to foreclosure and they are living a very different lifestyle in rented dwellings. Associate Publisher Jesse Spencer Why did this happen? Because people borrowed more than they could afford and eventually were Editor unable to make the payments on the mortgage James Cubby contract they signed with their bank - which clearly stated what their monthly payment was. In many Associate Editor cases people did absolutely no financial planning Antwyone Ingram and forgot that life will bring economic cycles when they may not earn the same amount of money as the Design & Production Director day they signed that mortgage contract. Jose Gonzalez

Smart and prudent financial planning dictates that Columnists you have a rainy day fund and you live well within Alfredo Barrios your means in case something happens. Living at Alyn Darnay the edge of a cliff leaves no room for error and in Dane Steele Green many cases eventually leads to financial disaster Ken Hunt and a drastic change in lifestyle. Just like I know a bunch of people who defaulted on their Dr. Gregg A Pizzi mortgages, I also know many others who planned prudently and were prepared ahead of Michael Sasser time to weather a financial storm. They still live in the apartments and homes they bought Kevin Wynn for amounts they could afford even when times got tough. Writers The real issue is that the same applies to countries and in the United States we are living Neil Andrew Frias at the edge of a financial cliff. To make matters worse, the politicians in Washington care more about getting re-elected than they do about exercising real leadership, tackling the Staff Photographer difficult problems, and making the right decisions. These people are leading us straight into Henry Perez a huge possible economic calamity that could dwarf the recent tough recession. Official Photography Studio I remember it like it was yesterday, when Spain had a booming economy and all my Span- Image1stmiami.com ish friends were living large in Miami and Madrid. They had beautiful apartments, fancy cars, went out to dinner often and partied a lot. They do not do that any more. Most of them Photographers have gone back to Madrid. They no longer have places in Miami and several of them are Javi Giovanni now unemployed in Spain. The Spanish economy is in shambles and required a huge eco- Luis Santiago nomic rescue package led by Germany to save their banks and economy from bankruptcy. Dale Stine

What happened in Spain, Greece, and Italy will certainly happen in the U.S. if our “re- Local Advertising elect me” politicians don’t grow some balls and, for once, care about the country they [email protected] live in. Someone has to make the tough decisions to stop overspending us to oblivion and growing our national debt to a point where the United States will no longer be able to pay National Advertising Rep. its debt obligations. Spain, Greece and Italy all had booming economies and now they are Rivendell Media | 212-242-6863 drowning in debt and huge unemployment – the U.S. can certainly be next! Editorial Submissions Take this seriously when you think about whom you should vote for. Growing the govern- [email protected] ment with spending programs and additional employees to “buy” votes is definitely not the solution. Any private company that grew too much or spent more than it took in eventually Contact Information had to make drastic cuts, or even went bankrupt. Look at what is happening right now to Tel: 305.520.WIRE | Fax: 786.272.0123 Research in Motion, the maker of Blackberry. Countries are no different than companies Email: [email protected] and people. Nations have to live within their means or face drastic consequences. Ask 1541 Brickell Avenue, #2004, Miami, FL 33129 any of your Spanish friends what it is like to live in once booming Spain right now. The unemployment rate in Spain was last reported at 24.4 percent in the first quarter of 2012! Wire Magazine is published, produced, and owned by Wire Media Group L.L.C. All Rights Reserved Rafa Distributed in Miami, The Beaches, and Fort Lauderdale

Publisher & Editor in Chief Cover Photo: Image Credit: © s_bukley, Shutterstock.com [email protected] Cover Design by: Alexander Tsopanakis / AVisuals NYC (Soon to be [email protected])

HYPE Fridays @ MOVA photos by Henry Perez, Wire Magazine

There’s always a lot of HYPE on Fridays as one of the best parties takes over MOVA. Hosted by Edison Far- row with beats by DJ Bryan Zero. Don’t miss the party BY DANE STEELE GREEN every Friday “where the men go out in South Beach.” Image Credit: Jesse Spencer

o one knows who penned it, but he put pen to paper and wrote “Roma, which delighted in making love from behind, spelled ‘Amor’ — love — by inverting its own name.” Etymologically, this is debatable. But before or since there has never been a better reason to visit Rome.

Except for maybe from August 7 – 12, the Eternal City hosts the 2012 Mr. Gay Eu- rope competition.

But before you think this the Airheaded Himbos of Europe Expo, think again. Being handsome is serious business. Drawing in delegates from the far corners of the conti- nent — Ireland to Malta, France to Turkey — the 15 contestants (with more to come as individual pageants conclude in participating countries) have to weather a personal interview, written test, five “practical tasks,” a Q&A, sports challenge, stage perfor- mance, plus competitions for talent, congeniality, photogenics, and the dreaded — but mandatory — swimsuit. Winners go on to the final Mr. Gay World competition in Antwerp, Belgium. And that’s when the claws really come out…

What does it take to win? Unlike a lot of contests, age isn’t a factor; this year’s contestant from Switzerland is 43. Judges instead look for a charming, poised, and honorable man who is young at heart and who shows an interest in the world and people around him; one who displays patience, has a sympathetic and considerate nature; a person who will not be frightened by change, or things and people different from his own frame of reference, experience or cultural background; and, finally, a lack of arrogance.

Not to be cynical, but you can see right off how quickly the herd can get thinned.

All the events in Rome take place at Gay Village, a 6.5 hectare site in the city commandeered into an outdoor entertainment fangaysia with bars, dance floors, an open-air gym, an exhibition space and an outdoor cinemaplex (and is, FYI, open right through the Mr. Gay Europe competition and on into September). This is a classic example of cramming every possible gay-themed event that you can think of into the time allotted. The real irony? This isn’t even Rome’s Gay Pride event; that was back in June. Even as pageant contestants go head to head (ahem) on stage, spectators can wander off and get swept up in a veritable Mediterranean flesh-fest pulsating to the beats of some of the best DJs on Earth. TO VIEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Steele Luxury Travel can assist you in planning a Dolce Vita vacation in Italia! Con- FROM THIS & OTHER EVENTS VISIT: tact us at [email protected] or visit www.steeletravel.com for more information! WWW.WIREWEEKLY.COM

DON’T LOSE YOUR BALANCE

ran into a friend of my mine the other day that was nursing a sprained ankle. When I asked what happened, expecting to hear that he over-trained or something similar, he replied that, “he had lost his balance crossing the street and tripped over a curb.” It might seem strange that someone who works out can suffer that kind of injury. But the truth is one of the biggest dangers we have, as we age, is falling or losing your balance.

So let’s dedicate this column to discussing ways to improve your balance as part of your workout routine.

As we age, our body can lose its quick reaction time and forget how to catch us when we fall. Adding some simple balance exercises is all you need to do.

The next time you do your dumbbell exercises like bicep curls, overhead press, triceps extensions and other exercises simply do it standing on ONE leg.

Also, passing time standing in line can be enhanced by seeing if you can stand on one leg for one minute without catching yourself. If you think it is too easy, then close your eyes while on one leg and you will feel the muscles in your legs work that keep you from falling. If you are trying this for the first time it would be a good idea to have something to grab on to. It’s much harder to do than it sounds.

There are many items to assist with balance training used by athletes as well as the average person seeking better fitness. Such items are:

1) Balance boards 2) Stability balls or bosu balls 3) Wobble boards 4) Agility ladders 5) As well as simply jumping or standing on one leg

Try standing on a wobble board and have someone toss a ball to you. Change the direction and speed at which the ball is thrown so that you have to think/react fast to catch it.

Some advanced routines you can add to balance training is to place your knees/shins on a balance board. Then use the regular dumbbell exercises you normally do while standing to challenge your balance further. You can also use the ball as a bench and do your bench press/flies on it as well with dumbbells or barbell.

The best thing about this type of program is that is does not need to replace any training you are currently doing - just supplement it. By simply adding one legged exercises and a variety of balance products listed above for 10-15 minutes during your workout will help you prevent the loss of balance that often occurs as you age. You will find that you have more stability in your every day activities. 7 | wire magazine | issue #29, 2012 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter BY JAMES CUBBY

nderson Cooper is gay! Is that such a big deal? Coming out of the closet for celebrities ing out? Coming out seems to be trendy and hip and like CNN Anchor Anderson Cooper, who recently came out publicly, can be a big is becoming less and less scandalous although some deal and a boost to the gay community. The fact that Anderson Cooper is gay was no believe that it can be the death of a career. Actor surprise to most, but it certainly made a statement. Why did Anderson Cooper’s coming out Rupert Everett says in his autobiography, Red Carpets make such a big noise? Jim Parsons, star of The Big Bang Theory, Matt Bomer, the handsome and Other Banana Skins, that he was in competition star of White Collar and one of the hot dancers in the recently released filmMagic Mike, for roles in About A Boy and Basic Instinct 2 but lost and Star Trek actor Zachary Quinto all came out of the closet in quick succession this year to the roles because of his sexual orientation. Obviously little fanfare, even though this writer screamed when he heard the news about Matt Bomer. coming out hasn’t hindered actor Neil Patrick Harris who recently wowed millions as the host on this year’s While coming out of the closet is more a personal experience for those not in the limelight Tony Awards, continues starring in How I Met Your and stalked by the paparazzi, it is more a choice and a step in one’s personal development. Mother and won an Emmy for his guest role on Glee. Celebrities on the other hand are often scrutinized and even forced out of the closet. Former ‘N Sync member Lance Bass, who officially came out as gay in 2006, was almost pushed In 1869, one hundred years before the Stonewall out of the closet by gossip blogger Perez Hilton, who himself is gay. While the gossip rags Riots, the 19th century LGBT rights advocate Karl and gay sites like Queerty.com thrive on rumors of which celebrity is gay or not, it is frowned Heinrich Ulrichs introduced the idea of coming out as upon to actually out someone. The choice to come out is a personal one and should not be means of emancipation. Ulrichs urged homosexuals forced by someone like Hilton who is known for outing celebrities. After outing Neil Patrick to come out because he believed that invisibility was Harris, the actor best known as the young doctor Doogie Howser, M.D. and the womanizing a major obstacle towards changing public opinion on Barney Stinson in How I Met Your Mother, the actor officially came out in 2006. “It upsets the subject of homosexuality. The first prominent Amer- me that people think what I’m doing is a bad thing,” Hilton told Access Hollywood. “I don’t ican to come out or reveal his homosexuality was poet think it’s a bad thing. If you know something to be a fact, why not report it? Why is that still Robert Duncan who wrote the landmark essay “The taboo?” Homosexual in Society.” Coming out as a writer is not shocking or career suicide but it’s quite a different With such a long list of out celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres, Portia de Rossi (Ellen’s wife), story for a politician or even a minister, especially Jody Foster, designer Marc Jacobs, Chris Hughes (one of the founders of Facebook), George if you’ve been preaching an anti-gay doctrine. The Michael, Elton John, Ricky Martin, Frank Ocean, Clay Aiken, Lily Tomlin, T.R. Knight, Rupert website Ranker.com recently posted a list of the “Top Everett, Alan Cumming, Cynthia Nixon, Wanda Sykes, Nathan Lane, David Hyde Pierce, 15 Anti-Gay Activists Caught Being Gay.” Among and Rosie O’Donnell, and the list goes on, why is the world making such a big fuss over com- them was the prominent anti-gay activist Pastor Eddie

8 | wire magazine | issue #29, 2012 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter COMING OUT Ricky Martin Shutterstock.com Image Credit: © s_bukley, “I’M A FORTUNATE HOMOSEXUAL MAN.” Lance Bass Image Credit: © Featureflash, Shutterstock.com –Ricky Martin Matt Bomer Image Credit: © Helga Esteb, Shutterstock.com Long and George Rekers, an anti-gay lobbyist who published papers like “Growing Up Straight: What Families Should Know About Homosexuality,” both caught with their pants down so to speak, but why give these types any ink, they only give the gay community a bad name and these guys were actually outed and didn’t voluntarily come out. million viewers a day. When Puerto Rican pop singer Ricky Martin came out in 2010, it seemed the gay world cheered. While it had been speculated for years that the Latin singer In 1987, Barney Frank, U.S. House Representative for was gay, it was a boost to the gay community to have him officially carry the gay flag. “I Massachusetts’s 4th congressional district, a good politi- am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man,” said Martin in a statement that he cian, became the first elected official in the United States posted on his website and was reprinted on The Huffington Post. “I am very blessed to be to come out. The following year, Svend Robinson became who I am.” the first Canadian Member of Parliament to come out. On the other hand, one’s coming out isn’t always met with Celebrities coming out in recent years have been greeted with more remarks along the lines cheers. In 2004 CNN reported that New Jersey Gover- of “it’s about time” or “what else is new?” rather than “oh, really.” In 2008, singer Clay Ai- nor James McGreevey announced that he was gay and ken came out as a gay father in a People magazine interview - an announcement that wasn’t resigned from office. He was standing next to his wife at ground breaking news. Comedian Wanda Sykes came out that same year to little fanfare the time. The former Governor spoke about his struggle and the following year singer Adam Lambert came out publicly in Rolling Stone magazine. with his sexuality. “At a point in every person’s life, one A more shocking statement would have been if Lambert had announced he was straight. has to look deeply into the mirror of one’s soul and de- cide one’s unique truth in the world, not as we may want Matt Bomer, one of the chiseled muscular hunks in the filmMagic Mike and the star of the to see it or hope to see it, but as it is,” McGreevey said. USA Network’s White Collar, came out earlier this year while accepting an award at the Desert AIDS Project’s Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards in Palm Springs. The actor came One wonders what the big deal is about coming out. out by acknowledging his longtime partner, Hollywood publicist Simon Halls and their three Ellen DeGeneres came out as a lesbian in 1997 on The children. In an interview on E! Online, Bomer mentioned that at the time he was preparing Oprah Winfrey Show and the world loves her. Ellen, we for a role in the upcoming film adaptation of Larry Kramer’s The Normal Heart. He plays a all call her by her first name, has won 13 Emmys and The gay journalist who contracts HIV. “My world has really been rocked by doing research for Ellen DeGeneres Show is viewed by an average of 2.74 Normal Heart, just in terms of the history of HIV and AIDS,” he said.

“I HATE THAT TERM ‘IN THE CLOSET’.” - Ellen DeGeneres Zachary Quinto Shutterstock.com Image Credit: © s_bukley, Sir Ian Mckellen Image Credit: © Featureflash, Shutterstock.com Ellen DeGeneres Shutterstock.com Image Credit: © s_bukley,

The most groundbreaking coming out announcement of late groups, no National Coming Out Day, no internet to blog about it. Coming out as a gay may be that of singer Frank Ocean, Kanye West collabora- athlete was extremely brave and it wasn’t for ratings. In his 1977 biography, The David tor. On July 4, Ocean published an open letter on his Tum- Kopay Story, he shares the behind-the-scene sexual proclivities of the heterosexual football blr blog sharing with the world that his first love was with players and their homophobia. Even though times are changing, only three additional for- another man. Actually he didn’t announce that he was gay mer NFL Players have come out as gay, Roy Simmons in 1992, Esera Tuaolo in 2002 and but that he’s bisexual. What’s more surprising is that the hip Wade Davis in 2012. All three of these athletes have credited Kopay with inspiring them hop community is supporting him. Russell Simmons wrote a to be more open about their sexual orientation. short congratulatory article in Global Grind saying, “Today is a big day for hip-hop. It is a day that will define who we In 1988, October 11 was designated as National Coming Out Day. Founded by Dr. Rob- really are. How compassionate will we be? How loving can ert Eichberg, his partner William Gamble, and Jean O’Leary, National Coming Out Day we be? How inclusive are we?” became a day for celebration, a civil awareness day for coming out and discussing LGBT issues among the general population in order to put light on the subject of coming out and Coming out is still a scary thing for many. For every celeb- the LGBT rights movement. In the U.S., the Human Rights Campaign, under the National rity that comes out of the closet there are probably dozens Coming Out Project, manages the event and offers resources to all in an effort to promote still hiding behind that closet door– many known in the gay awareness of being gay and living honest and open lives. National Coming Out day is community as gay but still fearful to come out publicly. Is it also observed in Canada, Germany, The Netherlands, and Switzerland, and in Britain (on wrong? Everyone has their reasons and we must all respect October 12). them. Some say Anderson Cooper’s coming out was a well- planned strategy to earn ratings. When he stated that he’s So you’re not Anderson Cooper or Ellen DeGeneres. Your coming out is still a big decision gay (“always have been, always will be”) it made him TV’s and an important step in your life. Today there are websites, blogs, and support groups to first openly gay prime time anchor and the most prominent assist you along the way. There’s even a book titled: Outing Yourself: How to Come Out out journalist in America today. as Lesbian or Gay to Your Family, Friends, and Coworkers. You don’t need to read it, just give a copy to everyone you want to come out to. For those who actually wish to read up When celebrities come out, it’s big news but we usually only on the subject before making the leap out of the closet, and there’s a plethora of books read about the fanfare and the hype. We rarely hear about available. You might want to read The Way Out: The Gay Man’s Guide to Freedom No their personal issues, the same ones that every gay man or Matter if You’re in Denial, Closeted, Half In, Half Out, Just Out or Been Around the Block. woman faces when coming out. How will my friends react? If you’re brave enough to buy a book on coming out (buying online doesn’t count), then How will my family take it? Will I be accepted? In 1975 ho- you’ve made the first step. Still stuck at your computer? Check out www.gaylife.about.com mophobia ran rampant in sports. When former NFL running where you’ll findComing Out: A Guide To Coming Out Of The Closet. And if you’re read- back David Kopay came out in 1975 there were no support ing this article, chances are the closet door is already open.

Charcuterie A CHEESE NIGHT Platter TO REMEMBER Images Credit: The Cheese Course & Rafa Carvajal

remember like it was yesterday when my mom brought a fondue set home for our family to enjoy a brand new dining experience. I was a young boy who Roasted Pepper & Eggplant was thrilled by the excitement of Provencal Sandwich dipping an assortment of different items into a delicious melted cheese as we sat as a family around a pot kept warm by a live flame. That was exciting stuff for a little boy and his brothers.

My recent visit to The Cheese Smoked North Course, a European-style artisanal cheese shop and bistro in Midtown Miami, brought Atlantic Salmon Salad back so many of those wonderful memories. Jesse Spencer and I enjoyed a delicious meal in a very relaxed atmosphere with a bottle of white wine – very reminiscent of some wonderful, relaxing meals I’ve had in Europe.

Dessert Cheese Course Classic Swiss Fondue Assortment of Cheeses

The Cheese Course recently unveiled a new menu with a greater assortment of phenom- ries, pine nuts, greens, honey-tarragon vinaigrette and fresh baked bread. enal cheeses and homemade spreads, plus full service dining on Friday and Saturday in a casual setting that is perfect to spend quality time on a date or with friends and family. You Besides all the delectable food we enjoyed, The Cheese Course menu also in- can enjoy several mouth-watering alternatives in the heart of Midtown Miami. cludes 19 mouth-watering sandwiches such as the Roasted Pepper and Eggplant Provencal made with fresh goat cheese, tomatoes, marinated artichoke hearts, We sampled several of The Cheese Course’s scrumptious choices during our visit last red onions, cucumbers, capers, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar Thursday: 1) Classic Swiss Fondue with smooth, creamy swiss cheese paired with fresh and greens; 9 succulent salads; and a wide array of cheese courses with yummy baked breads; 2) Charcuterie Platter with prosciutto, Serrano ham, sopressatta, and sau- cheeses from around the world. They can help you create a cheese course cission sec, served with parmigiano reggiano crumbles, cornichons, roasted red peppers, unique to your taste and desires by selecting from over 100 cheeses plus ac- marcona almonds, mixed olives, and fresh bread; 3) Classic Greek Salad made with Feta companiments to match, or you can choose from several cheese courses that are cheese, chunks of tomatoes, green peppers, red onions, kalamata olives, dolmas, lemon part of their permanent menu selections. vinaigrette and fresh baked bread; 4) Smoked North Atlantic Salmon Salad made with fresh goat cheese, cucumber, red onions, capers, dill, lemon vinaigrette and fresh baked The Cheese Course has mastered the artistry of cheese right in our own back- bread, and 5) Roasted Beet Salad made with fresh goat cheese, sliced oranges, strawber- yard, so stop by for a dining experience unlike any other!

The Cheese Course, Midtown Miami, 3451 NE 1st Ave., Miami.

ooks like Target has found itself on the bad side of gay rights organizations once again. This time it’s over Channel Orange, the new album by R&B/ Hip-hop artist Frank Ocean. Earlier this month Ocean published an open letter on his Tumblr page to his “first love,” a boy he spent two summers with when he was 19. When describing their time together, Ocean wrote “Sleep I would often share with him. By the time I realized I was in love, it was malignant. It was hope- less. There was no escaping, no negotiating with the feeling. No choice. It was my first love, it changed my life.” Besides being a heartfelt story about unrequited love, Ocean’s confession made history by making him the first openly gay R&B/Hip-Hop artist.

Surprisingly, the industry, which generally has a derog- atory view of homosexuality, has been very supportive of Ocean’s decision. Props by Beyoncé, Jay-Z and Ty- ler, The Creator were tweeted after the announcement as well as from fellow members of the hip-hop collec- tive Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All (OFWGKTA). Hip-hop mogul, Russell Simmons wrote in the Global Grind, “Today is a big day for hip-hop. It is a day that will define who we really are. How compassionate will we be? How loving can we be? …Your decision to go public about your sexual orientation gives hope and light to so many young people still living in fear.”

So why has the retail giant suddenly decided NOT to carry Frank Ocean’s sophomore release, Channel Orange? Still a bit sour over the controversy involv- ing a Minneapolis Target that donated $150,000 to a political group that backed an anti-gay marriage gubernatorial candidate; gay rights advocates don’t think this is a coincidence. Target publicly denied the finger-pointing on MTV News claiming the decision was based on iTunes’ advance sale of the album one week prior to the physical release date and saying “The claims made about Target’s decision to not carry the Frank Ocean album are absolutely false. Target supports inclusivity and diversity in every aspect of our business.”

Whether you’re on Team Ocean or Team Target, one thing is clear: Channel Orange is an R&B masterpiece of emotion and melodies co-produced by Ocean himself and some of the hottest names in hip-hop including Malay, Om’Mas Keith and the legendary Pharrell Williams. The collection debuted at #2 on the U.K charts and was flooded with positive reviews even days before its official U.S. drop date. Only two years into his recording career, Frank Ocean is no industry rookie. The 24-year-old New Orleans native paid his dues writing for other major artists like Brandy, Justin Bieber, John Legend and Beyoncé and has collabo- rated with hip-hop icons Jay-Z and Kanye West. Now fresh from his recent appearance on Jimmy Fallon, his Coachella debut and all the pre-sale drama, it looks like Ocean is ready to start making some waves of

Frank Ocean Frank his own.

If you’re a recording artist, musician or producer and would like your work featured on TOP TRAX, hit me up at [email protected].

JULY 19 - 25 CONCERTS Sing Show Tunes…and play with pup- Gorgeous Gallery, a homoerotic art The Spinners and The Manhattans will XXVII International Hispanic Theatre Fes- pets, an inside glimpse of what it takes book, along with photographer David be hitting the stage of Hard Rock Live on tival of Miami, with productions from to be a man in a modern world, at the Vance who will be signing his new book July 19 at 8 p.m. some of the best theatre companies from Miracle Theatre thru August 12. Jungle Fever on July 19 at 7 p.m. Latin America, Europe and the U.S., Nicki Minaj, currently on tour promoting comes to Miami with productions at ven- COMEDY Miami Beach Bruthaz Conference, the her second studio album Pink Friday: Ro- ues throughout Miami-Dade County thru Actor/comedian Seth Meyers, best annual summer lifestyle event for gay man Reloaded, will be at the James L. July 29. www.teatroavante.com known for his political commentary on men of color, offers a variety of parties, Knight Center on July 24. Saturday Night Live, brings his humor to workshops, and networking opportuni- Hair, the award-winning rock musical the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek on ties at various locations throughout Mi- that recounts the hippie era, comes to July 19. ami Beach. For more info, visit www. Area Stage thru July 22. miamibeachbruthaz.com. ART The Donkey Show, the celebrated smash Graphic Intervention: 25 Years of Inter- The annual Mercedes-Benz Fashion hit, recreates a disco-era nightclub on national AIDS Awareness Posters 1985– Week Swim returns with a showcase for the stage of the Arsht Center thru August 2010, exploring the role of the poster in designers to launch swimwear and re- 12. efforts to prevent HIV/AIDS, continues at sort collections at runways set up in tents the Wolfsonian – FIU Museum thru Sep- at the Raleigh Hotel July 19 – 23. www. GableStage presents Race, Pulitzer tember 2. miami.mbfashionweek.com Prize-wining playwright David Mamet’s new play, at GableStage at the Biltmore Tom of Finland: Male Masterpieces con- Funkshion: Fashion Week Miami Beach, THEATRE thru August 5. The play poses blunt ques- tinues thru July 31 at the World Erotic presents six-days of fashion shows and Cirque du Soleil’s Dralion, a fusion of tions with provocative language that will Art Museum. events showcasing swimwear at The Tent ancient Chinese circus traditions and the leave everyone talking long after the on Collins Park between 21st and 22nd avant-garde style of Cirque du Soleil, lights go down. EVENT Street on Collins Avenue and The Soho comes to the BankAtlantic Center July Author David Leddick will be at Books Beach House. Thru July 22. www.fash- 19 – 29. Actors’ Playhouse presents Real Men & Books South Beach with his new book ionweekmiami.com Submissions for On the Arts should be sent to: [email protected]

Guests enjoyed a fabulous night at TWIST with delicious beats by DJ Scott Mann and a crowd that was sure to please. Seven different bars, stiff drinks, beautiful dancers, and, of course, the only place where there’s “Never a cover...Always a groove.”

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Palace divas pack a punch every Sunday at the Palace Brunchic and T Dance with the most outrageous shows. Don’t miss the hottest spot on the ocean, with the sexiest people in town every Sunday on Ocean Drive. Stop by and taste the new BBQ menu!

TO VIEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS FROM THIS & OTHER EVENTS VISIT: WWW.WIREWEEKLY.COM

Image Credit: Ian Smith urrounding the central theme of knowledge, culture, and fashion, Miami Beach Bruthaz returns to Miami Beach to bring partygoers from near and far an exceptional party weekend complete with an illustrious event line-up that is sure to make your head spin. Wire Magazine sits down with founder of MBB, Ian, to get the latest on this year’s event!

Ian Smith, some people may not know that MBB has been around since 2006. What did you envision upon creating this event, and what encouraged you to create MBB? Miami Beach Bruthaz really started out of a need I saw among African-American and Latino same-gender loving men who were looking for something different. So, this idea was born under the theme of Knowl- edge, Culture and Fashion. And those three things are really the three pieces of Miami Beach Bruthaz that I try to bring to incorporate into each event.

Although your event caters to a variety of people, do you feel that there is a lack of Paulo Brazil who is going to turn it out at Score major circuit events (i.e. White Party, Winter Party, etc.) that cater to the gay African with those serious sounds of Brazilian house/ American community? dance music. We’re rounding out the weekend at Well, it really depends on what people are looking for. I would say that there are major events that Palace on Sunday, July 22 with DJ Oren Nizri for cater to the African-American audience in larger cities like Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, New York, etc. our T-Dance party. But I still felt like there was room to create something a little different, something on a smaller, more intimate scale that encourages people to have fun on Miami Beach, but they can also get together and You’ve been doing this for a number of talk about major social, political and health issues. years, I’m sure it takes a great amount of hard work and dedication to pull off Describe Miami Beach Bruthaz for those who may not be familiar with the event. such a large-scale event. What encour- Miami Beach Bruthaz was founded in July, 2006 as an annual summer lifestyle event for same gender ages your drive to produce such a suc- loving men from across the country. The event is focused around a central theme: Knowledge, Culture, cessful event each year? Fashion and includes a variety of knowledge-filled and cultural events that promote unity, camaraderie, To be honest, it’s the attendees and it’s also the empowerment, emotional well-being and a sense of belonging among its attendees. The event is held local support I receive from the community. You’re the third weekend in July in South Beach and creates opportunities for attendees to enjoy a fun-filled, right, this truly is a labor of love. It’s hard work VIP-style weekend getaway on Miami Beach, while discussing social, economic, political and health and very tedious. But every year I meet lots of issues during informative workshops. We’re known for our great events, quality accommodations, inti- new people, I see some of the same people from mate settings and the attention we pay to customer service. previous years and everybody is having fun, en- joying themselves and building long-lasting friend- What kind of music can partygoers expect for your upcoming party weekend and ships. People actually look forward to this event who is on your roster of DJs? and some of them plan their birthday celebration We really like to mix it up each year at Miami Beach Bruthaz and give people a variety of music. At- around our weekend. Seeing that kind of partici- tendees will get everything from hip hop, to house/dance, to Brazilian beats and old school ‘80s and pation from people really makes this worthwhile. ‘90s. On Thursday, July 19, we’ve got DJ Dias who’s going to get us started with the MBB White Party at The Well at 444 41st Street with an open format, including some oldies but goodies. On Friday, July What key components are needed to pull 20 we’ve got DJ Gavin who’s going to give us that hard hip hop beat at Discotekka at 950 NE 2nd Ave. off a successful event year-after-year? On Saturday, July 21 we’ve got DJ Yung Mal at the pool party at the Congress Hotel on Ocean Drive Well, needless to say, the financial coverage is from 12 - 8 p.m. Then on Saturday night, we’ve got DJ the backbone of the whole event, but it’s really Rodolfo Bravat all the way from Sao about creating a quality product that people

19 | wire magazine | issue #29, 2012 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter MIAMI BEACH BRUTHAZ BY ANTWYONE INGRAM THIS WEEK THURSDAY JULY 19th Beats by DJ Scott Mann. Enjoy seven different bars, stiff drinks, beautiful dancers. EROS LOUNGE: Latin Fuego Thursday “Never a cover... Always a groove.” nights hosted by Teresita La Caliente. Shows at 11p.m. Free parking and SATURDAY JULY 21 $6 Cuba Libres all night long. 8201 Biscayne Blvd. DISCOTEKKA: Samba with Brazilian sounds by superstar DJ Rafael Calvente. MOVA: Happy hour 3 to 9 p.m. Vanity Doors open at 11 p.m. 950 NE 2nd Girl Thursdays gives you gorgeous girls Ave. & great music by DJ Zehno, $4 Miller Lites, $6 Finlandia cocktails, and a free MOVA: Happy Hour 3 to 9 p.m., fol- Miller Lite when you buy the shot of the lowed by FLASH Saturdays with the week. 1625 Michigan Ave. hottest music videos and visual entertainment by VJ Chris Racine til 3 a.m. $9 PALACE: Stiletto Nights with fierce drag Grey Goose cocktails all night. shows by host Missy Meiyakie and special diva cast members. Show at 6 p.m. PALACE: “Drags Gone Wild” with per- Weekly drink specials all night. 1200 formances by Tiffany Fantasia and cast! Ocean Drive. Sounds by DJ Hans at 4 p.m. can appreciate and want to come back for year after year. At the end of the day, are people happy and experiencing something they don’t get elsewhere? SCORE: Score hosts Pop Fever Thursdays. SCORE: Miami Beach Bruthaz and A number of local favorites are included in the MBB itinerary, what Fashionably Fit Party with beats by DJ Ejoy International present Brazil, with DJ local venues have you teamed up with this year to host some of Daisy D & AJ Reddy. Half price drinks Rodolfo Bravat. Doors open at 11 p.m. your parties? We’ve got The Well at 444 41st Street. Beautiful venue. We’ve got Discotekka in from 9 p.m. – 12 a.m. No cover! 727 downtown Miami at 950 NE 2nd Ave. We decided to spread out a little bit this Lincoln Road. TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 with Tommy year. We’ve got Score at 727 Lincoln Road. They have been tremendous support- and the locals from 1 to 9 p.m. on ers of our event from the very beginning. And we’ve got Palace at 1200 Ocean TWIST: Seven different bars, DJ everything. MUSCLE BOY Saturdays. Drive. We always round out our weekend with a great T-Dance at Palace. Sushiman, stiff drinks, and beautiful Incredible beats by DJ Mika. “Never a Your fashion show is always a hit, showcasing some of Miami’s (and dancers. DJ Adora hosts Sabroso in cover...Always a groove.” abroad) beautiful models. What brand are you showcasing this year Bar 5! 2-4-1 Special on everything til in your fashion show and how did you select your models? 2 a.m. “Never a cover... Always a SUNDAY JULY 22 We’re doing something a little different with the fashion presentation this year. We are showing Andrew Christian at the MBB White Party on Thursday, July 19 and groove.”1057 Washington Ave. we’re also showing Mundo Unico at the MBB Pool Party on Saturday, July 21. I’m ANGLERS: Great food and delicious moving the more formal fashion industry show to Friday, October 5 in partnership FRIDAY JULY 20 libations in one of the most beautiful bou- with Celebrate Orgullo. So, we’re expecting a huge turnout and big names in tique resorts Miami Beach has to offer. fashion for that event. MOVA: Edison Farrow’s HYPE Fridays. 660 Washington Ave. Where do you see Miami Beach Bruthaz in several years? Beats by DJ Bryan Zero. $7 Finlandia I really hope to make this event more international, especially across the Caribbean drink specials all night. No cover. LALA DIOSADIOSA:: Grand Grand opening opening night night of of and Latin American countries. We’re already making connections with Brazil, and “Where the men go out in South Beach Goddess & & Adonis. Adonis. Open Open Bar Bar 10 10 p.m. p.m. I want to continue to groom that and develop our reach even more. on Friday nights!” – 1212 a.m.a.m. MusicMusic byby DJDJ Franken,Franken, withwith spespe-- cial guest Our Lady of Tallahasse. 1334 Are there any new changes to Miami Beach Bruthaz this year or can cial guest Our Lady of Tallahasse. 1334 guests expect the amazing line-up from previous years? PALACE: Drag Madness with fierce Washington Ave, Miami Beach. We will always present a quality product for our guests. I think they can expect shows by some of South Beach’s most a few visual surprises at the MBB White Party. We definitely will get their senses spectacular drag performers! Show starts MOVA: Sucia Sundays with DJ Paul De going at that event. The hip hop party at Discotekka is also going to be a bit different. We’re working with EVO Miami to put on a quality show. And, the Brazilian at 6 p.m. Leon. Open bar from 9 – 10 p.m. $3 house/dance party at Score will be one of those events that keep you on the dance Threesome Shots, $4 Miller Lites, $5 Red floor all night long. DJ Bravat is over the top. SCORE: Penny Back Boyz host one of Headed Slut Shots and Herradura, and the hottest parties in South Beach, Filthy $6 Finlandia. No cover. How do you feel Miami Beach Bruthaz “stands out from the crowd” in reference to competing parties? Gorgeous Fridays, with sounds by inter- I think because we do offer a variety of events with different music each night, we national DJ Willy G. Celebrating the PALACE: South Beach’s most legend- really give people a bang for their buck. It’s not the same product each night, it’s birthday of international photographer ary drag brunch. 11a.m. to 4 p.m. with a different sound, a different space and a different experience. We really cater to Manny Roman. two seatings: 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. the customer and our number one goal is to make sure everybody leaving Miami Beach Bruthaz is filled with Knowledge, Culture and Fashion! TWIST: Free Happy Hour BBQ at 6 p.m. Performances by Noel Leon. Afterwards,

20 | wire magazine | issue #29, 2012 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter BY ANTWYONE INGRAM SAMBA check out the Sunday T-Dance with local TUESDAY JULY 24 DJs. MOVA: Tiffany Fantasia hosts DRAG SCORE: Karaoke night! Doors open at 9 BINGO, benefiting the LGBT Visitor’s p.m. Upstairs, HIP SUNDAYS, in associa- Center. Win amazing prizes courtesy of tion with Club Boi 2.0, featuring hip-hop, the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber house, and R&B beats by DJs Gavin T & of Commerce! Diaz from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. PALACE: “Dine With the Stars” featuring TWIST: 2-4-1 happy hour from 1 to a full roster of impersonators and show- 9 p.m. & the free BBQ at 6 p.m. stopping performances. Special guest Afterwards, Pussila’s amateur strip con- hosts and performances every week, with test. Upstairs DJ Paulie will be working it dinner specials starting at $19.95. out on the main dance floor. At TWIST: “Never a cover...Always a groove.” SCORE: Planeta Macho, the hottest Latin Party in Miami Beach, featuring ire Magazine sits down with Ve- he promises this night to be one not to MONDAY JULY 23 Latin beats by award winner DJ George Ferrero. Amazing shows by Miami’s best gas Dion of Discotekka to get the miss. He flies in that same Saturday from latest on Samba, an extravagant Rio de Janeiro ready to serve the beats KILL YOUR IDOL: Dustin Reffca pres- female impersonators. Dancers on the Brazilian inspired dance event, Wa- with a lot of style! 2nd level hosted by Teresita La Caliente. ents GLITTER BOX MONDAYS - South terworks, and exciting news about the expansion of Discotekka and what that There is a whole historical culture Beach’s hottest Monday night party with TWIST: 2-4-1 Happy Hour from 1 to means for its patrons. behind Samba. Are patrons en- multiple DJs, sparkling guest appearanc- couraged to dress in celebratory 9 p.m. on everything. TWIST presents es, DJ Smeejay, DJ FR8-O and Maximus This time around, you chose a attire, similar to that of a Samba Keeping It Real Fun With Daisy D. Get Samba theme. What influenced 3000. $1 PBR, Beer, $2 Jell-O shots, $4 parade in Rio, or should they leave ready for ridiculous beats and $5 Jumbo you to do Samba, a genre of music that up to the Discotekka team? Jack Daniels and $4 Vodka drinks all Blue Long Island Iced Teas all night long. with so much flavor? A party is not a party without a group night! 222 Española Way. In honor of one of our most beloved bar- “Never a cover. Always a groove.” of fun people that want to have fun…. tenders Italo, who is Brazilian, we were TRUST ME, there is nothing more fun than inspired in the heat of Brazil, the color, the MOVA: MOVA’s weekly SHOUT kara- dressing up. We encourage everyone to WEDNESDAY JULY 25 music and of course the hot Brazilian boys fluff their feathers and pop some color… oke party with VJ AJ Reddy. Half priced to do this Samba event. DRESS UP and HAVE FUN! drinks all night long and $5 glasses of EROS LOUNGE: Eros Idol Karaoke at wine. For those who may not be 100% Discotekka has really been heat- 8 p.m. Happy Hour 4 to 9 p.m. with $5 familiar with it, describe Samba in ing things up with theme par- Long Island Iced Tea all night long. a few words. ties back-to-back. Will there be a PALACE: Palace Drag Race hosted by Samba is a Brazilian dance originating in regular Saturday anytime soon or the audacious Missy Meyakie LePaige Bahia and with its roots in Brazil. It has MOVA:: MOVA’sMOVA’s weeklyweekly CollegeCollege NightNight are you sticking to the formula of with appearances by RuPaul’s Drag Race become an identity rhythm for Brazil. It is theme parties which seems to be Wednesdays, hostedhosted byby thethe PennyPenny BackBack played with drums, strings and other per- such a hit? Season 4 contestant, Latrice Royale! Boyz. DJDJ DaisyDaisy D Dwill will be beworking working the turnthe- cussion instruments. It is a catchy Carib- THEME PARTIES will continue, it is what Absolut open bar from 7-8 p.m. Divas bean, African rooted rhythm that is almost turntables,tables, $5 $5Finlandia Finlandia cocktails cocktails and andfive makes us….a big unveiling of a new impossible to resist to move your body to. in drag receive $4 Absolut cocktails all fiveMiller Miller Lites Lites for onlyfor only $15 $15 all night all night long. space and a new era of Discotekka will night long! How are you incorporating Samba come in the next following weeks. It is PALACE: Elite Nights with live music into the theme and what is going prime news, here in Wire Magazine, that we announce that Discotekka’s Main SCORE: Happy hour with all drinks ½ and hilarious comedy presented by the to be the overall feel of the party? Everything will have the feel of a Carnival Room will be only 21 and over and will price, followed by Video Freak where one and only Noel Leon. complimentary in Brazil. The feathers, the color, the music open a NEW space “Forbidden at Dis- you can request your favorite music vid- Drinks from 8 to 9 p.m. Show at 8 p.m. and of course the boys. House music will cotekka” for all under 21 patrons. But….. eos and enjoy $5 vodka cocktails, $7 be pounding along with live drum beats Nothing will look the same ! SURPRISE UNVEILING VERY SOON! martinis and $3 beers. No cover. SCORE: Martini Madness Night. A half- and some eye candy for everyone to enjoy. price Happy Hour runs till 9 p.m. Rumors have it Waterworks will TWIST : Happy Hour 2-4-1 drinks ‘till When thinking of a Samba party, be making an appearance at Dis- 9 p.m. Then it’s Arrasando hosted by TWIST: Sean Brady hosts the Sean Brady people immediately think of ener- cotekka again sometime soon. Marco Perez & Nicholas Torres with Show. Karaoke and tons of entertainment getic and lively music. Who have Can you confirm a date? In this heat…we cannot wait any longer, beats by house diva Justice Divine. Join all night long. TP Lords and DJ Felix on you chosen to “serve” the beats for your Samba event? we need some WATERWORKS….pack Nathan in the Frolic Lounge for signature the main dance floor. 2-4-1 Happy Hour None other than the international Brazil- your swim trunks and put your cellphone mix of Pop and Top 20 & DJ Bryan Zero’s from 1 to 9 p.m. on everything. “Never ian DJ/Producer Rafael Calvente. Not a in a ziploc bag, the date is AUGUST 11! fab beats on the main dance floor. a cover...Always a groove.” stranger to the South Florida party crowd,

HOMO HIPHOP? BY MICHAEL W. SASSER Image Credit: Nabil Elderkin

Salvation: Olympixx @ Score photos by Henry Perez, Wire Magazine

In recognition of the upcoming Summer Games, Hil- ’d like to think that the recent Frank The worst attacks on Ocean are largely ton Wolman took it back to the days of Salvation with Ocean admission was just the begin- hidden in the Net. Those anti-gay lyrics “Olympixx;” also celebrating the birthday of international ning and that, in the wake of his an- and that anti-gay urban culture? DJ/Producer Chris Cox. The hottest men and extreme beats nouncement, scores of other hip hop figures -- and fans -- would suddenly feel Just turn on the radio. filled Saturday’s largest gay dance party on Miami Beach. empowered to come out of the closet and be embraced by their suddenly inclusive Is that going to change because of community. Ocean? Probably not, and that’s why I’m unable to muster much optimism that his Sadly, I can’t believe it. Ocean deserves bravery is going to make any difference credit for the mild but daring risk he took, overall to a culture that denigrates gays and personally and professionally, I wish even more so than women. him nothing but the best. Not that he cares, but hey, there aren’t all that many Imagine what would have happened if celebrities on that short well-wisher list. the top ten names in hip hop all came out in support of Ocean -- loudly and In any event, it was equally good to see proudly. How would it affect today’s ur- much of the public reaction positive, ban youth if a group of folks led by the although I think it’s notable that there likes of Diddy (or P. Diddy or Puff Pastry, wasn’t exactly an outpouring of support. whatever the hell it is this month) came If Ocean’s story was mild, then the sup- out and loudly praised his gay brother, port he engendered was faint -- nice, but Ocean? If Eminem did? If R&B’s Usher faint. There was certainly support from came out and said not only that Ocean such global figures as Beyonce, Jamie was cool by him but also that Ocean also Foxx and 50 Cent, among others. The had a nice ass? (Sorry, a little fantasizing support is nice but pales in comparison there.) to what, say, media’s Anderson Cooper received from his peers and fans follow- How much would that have done for ing his coming out. bringing a little enlightenment to a population desperately in need of it? But, that said, there has been some un- pleasant reactions to Ocean too. You Ocean’s story would be far more sig- have to dig deep into websites cater- nificant if that had been the case. But ing to hardcore hip hop fans to find the it wasn’t what happened. Instead, too stories claiming Ocean’s move was for many industry figures hid, said nothing. public reactions and otherwise criticizing him -- sometimes rather ferociously. They stayed silent so to not slow their flow of cash from exploiting and reinforc- While the negative reaction to Ocean ing the worst possible human values. might not be making front pages, there’s a fundamental problem: critics’ lan- Frank Ocean elevated himself by taking guage, references and insults mirror the a risk. language and sensibilities of too much hip-hop and rap. The attacks on Ocean Sadly, too few of his peers are doing the sound like the lyrics to way too much ur- same. TO VIEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS FROM THIS & OTHER EVENTS VISIT: ban music. WWW.WIREWEEKLY.COM