I'm not one to usually judge a person, mainly because every person has traveled their own personal paths in life and no one knows what another person is all about. But as a successful media reporter, we always need to put the facts (allegedly as it may seem) out there, report the news and let the audience draw their own conclusions.
So that's what I'm going to do.
A few of my friends and I went to a local eatery early Saturday morning at approximately 2:10 a.m. We sat down at our booth and ordered some food. There was another group of individuals in the same eatery at another table. I didn't really know any of them, except maybe a brief hello to a couple of them in the past. We were minding our own business, and they were minding their own business.
Approximately an hour later, the group of guys at the other table left the eatery. A few minutes later, as we were asking for our check, the waitress innocently mentioned that she was a bit surprised that the guys only left her $1 as a tip, but, as she said, "I'm not going to complain, it's no big deal".
Now my group of friends are the type of people who not only would feel bad that this would ever happen, but we are the type of people who work in the service industry - me as a bartender - and would do our best to compensate for another table's alleged foul actions. So we decided to make her day and leave her three times the amount of our tip.
Now I'm not accusing anyone of stiffing a server; I'm not in a person's mind. But nonetheless, a couple of my friends posted generic Facebook posts - not naming any names - but just saying something like "Go out to eat and leave a $1 tip, who would do that?"
Now I have no idea what transpired before Saturday at around 11 a.m., but somehow someone mentioned something to somebody, calling these people out. My friends and I were asleep, so I have no idea what happened. And to be perfectly honest, I really could give two s**ts what happened!
So allegedly, one of the members of the table who, allegedly, was part of the group who, allegedly, stiffed the waitress out a sufficient tip, decided that it was okay in some freakin' universe to message some stupid rant to one of my friends, accusing us of spreading gossip and rumors about them, which they insist were not true.
Now I don't give a damn whether it was true or not. And I don't give a damn if this person feels justified in reacting this way. But I DO give a damn that this person would be so reckless as to think that in some universe that it is okay to give me and my friends dirty looks and talk s*** about us at our local watering holes. And trust, I know that is a fact because a couple of people mentioned it ... and I, myself, saw the dirty looks.
Now this is the quiz ~~~ If you are eating in a restaurant and you, allegedly, leave a $1 tip when 3 or 4 people are eating, would you:
A) Justify it by saying a couple of the people paid by credit card (PS - the eatery DOES NOT accept credit cards);
B) Start a text altercation with a person because you have been called out for your alleged actions;
C) After thinking you've been called out, you call the eatery the next morning and complain about the server and almost get that server fired;
D) Feel justified in causing a ruckus with the people who you falsely assume made you, allegedly, look like a fool in the community.
You can decide which letter you want, but I'm going to make this plain and as clear and concise as this blogger can make it ...
If you choose letter D, you'd better be prepared for what I do after-the-fact, because if you choose to act like a fool and talk about me and my friends out in public, this is one black man who will make you second-guess choosing letter D!
So I'm putting it out there to whoever has a problem with me ~~ you are more than welcome to approach me face-to-face and discuss your concerns or issues, I welcome it. And I'm speaking for myself, no one else, and not my friends.
But best be warned ~~ you may be greeted by Eric, who is a nice, kind-hearted person who always has an open mind. Or you may be greeted by Bernadine, who is a bitchy, cunty wildcat who doesn't put up with any crap ... from anyone.
But if I were a betting man, I'd put all my savings on meeting up with Miss Bernadine!
But take your chances ... you never know.
**Editor's note ~ For those who aren't aware, the definition of allegedly is: used to convey that something is claimed to be the case or have taken place, although there is no proof.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Cameo, the newest kid on the gay community block, open for business
In case you haven't noticed, there's a new hot child in the city.
Cameo, the neighborhood's urban hangout in Asbury Park, is under new ownership and has reinvented itself as the new gay bar in our fair city. John McGillion, owner of Johnny Mac House of Spirits in the city, took over the bar and turned it into the newest gay bar in Asbury Park.
The reemergence took place about a month ago, and by the looks of it, the place is making a real dent in Asbury Park. The community has come out and has shown support for the new spot.
Cameo, located on Main Street, is just the newest member of the group of bars/restaurants already established as part of the gay scene ~ Georgie's Bar, Paradise Nightclub and Hotel Tides Restaurant & Spa.
Cameo also has a new manager. John Figueiredo, of Asbury Park, has taken over the reigns and is already making inroads in turning the bar into one of the places to be.
"We are now serving the gay community and creating an environment where people can relax, chill and mingle. The staff is friendly and the drinks are great," Figueiredo says. "Over the next couple of months we will be transforming this iconic bar into Asbury's newest gay destination to be. The staff is planning some exciting events to include half-priced Martini Mondays and Wicked Wednesdays, where we will be viewing "American Horror Stories'" newest season just in time for Halloween.
"Sundays we will be presenting "The Big Gay Beer Explosion," a take on the traditional beer blast. Dragon's Lair Productions is also pleased to announce "Bulge," a party for gay men, on the first Saturday of every month beginning in November."
According to Figueiredo, the LGBTQ community has been receptive of Asbury Park's newest gay bar.
"The response to our opening has been met with overwhelming excitement," he says. "I would say that the general consensus is that a new gay bar is just what Asbury Park and the gay community needs. Our community has been super supportive as the business has been growing week after week."
If you haven't gotten yourself out to check out Cameo, make sure you do.
Check out their Facebook page here!
Cameo, the neighborhood's urban hangout in Asbury Park, is under new ownership and has reinvented itself as the new gay bar in our fair city. John McGillion, owner of Johnny Mac House of Spirits in the city, took over the bar and turned it into the newest gay bar in Asbury Park.
The reemergence took place about a month ago, and by the looks of it, the place is making a real dent in Asbury Park. The community has come out and has shown support for the new spot.
Cameo, located on Main Street, is just the newest member of the group of bars/restaurants already established as part of the gay scene ~ Georgie's Bar, Paradise Nightclub and Hotel Tides Restaurant & Spa.
Cameo also has a new manager. John Figueiredo, of Asbury Park, has taken over the reigns and is already making inroads in turning the bar into one of the places to be.
"We are now serving the gay community and creating an environment where people can relax, chill and mingle. The staff is friendly and the drinks are great," Figueiredo says. "Over the next couple of months we will be transforming this iconic bar into Asbury's newest gay destination to be. The staff is planning some exciting events to include half-priced Martini Mondays and Wicked Wednesdays, where we will be viewing "American Horror Stories'" newest season just in time for Halloween.
"Sundays we will be presenting "The Big Gay Beer Explosion," a take on the traditional beer blast. Dragon's Lair Productions is also pleased to announce "Bulge," a party for gay men, on the first Saturday of every month beginning in November."
According to Figueiredo, the LGBTQ community has been receptive of Asbury Park's newest gay bar.
"The response to our opening has been met with overwhelming excitement," he says. "I would say that the general consensus is that a new gay bar is just what Asbury Park and the gay community needs. Our community has been super supportive as the business has been growing week after week."
If you haven't gotten yourself out to check out Cameo, make sure you do.
Check out their Facebook page here!
Thursday, October 10, 2013
The Pride Network presents awards reception, youth awards brunch in celebration of LGBT History Month
In celebration of LGBT History Month, The Pride Network will be hosting an awards reception and youth awards brunch honoring leaders in the LGBT community.
LGBT History Month is a month-long annual observance, held in October, of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history, and the history of the gay rights and related Civil Rights movements.
The awards reception will be held Friday, October 25 at The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, located at 1401 Ocean Ave. in Asbury Park. The event starts at 7 p.m., with an open bar from 7-8 p.m. and passed hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $65 and can be purchased at ThePrideNetwork.org.
The keynote speaker at the reception will be Daniel L. Weiss, an attorney with over two decades of experience in immigration law. Weiss, a same-sex marriage advocate, is the past chair of the District IX Ethics Committee and a special master for the OAE.
The awards reception, sponsored by Wells Fargo, will recognize New Jersey’s finest leaders. Among the honorees: Carol Watchler, chair of GLSEN Central New Jersey; Steven Goldstein, founder of Garden State Equality; Laura Pople, president of Jersey Pride Inc.; Ed Zipprich, a member of the Red Bank Borough Council; Jeffrey Campbell, executive director of the Hudson Pride Connections Center; the Rev. Robert F. Kaeding, founder of The Center in Asbury Park; TJ Helmstetter, director of Communications and Development at Garden State Equality; David Hoffman, event planner and gay rights advocate in Asbury Park; and John Loffredo, deputy mayor of Asbury Park.
Entertainment provided by DJ Mick Hale, and event design by Peter James Floral Couture.
The youth awards brunch, recognizing New Jersey’s finest young leaders, will be held Sunday, October 27 at The Hotel Tides Restaurant & Spa, located at 408 7th Ave. in Asbury Park. The brunch, sponsored by The Pride Network and the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN), begins at 1 p.m. and the cost is $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at ThePrideNetwork.org
The Pride Network strives to develop a more involved and informed LGBTQ community through leadership programs and practical solutions that build, educate and empower sustainable community networks. The organization also looks to a time when a fundamental part of being an LGBTQ individual is the opportunity to access a community that empowers and informs its members about their collective past, present and future.
For more information on these events held to honor LGBT History Month, contact Christian Fuscarino, director of The Pride Network, at 732-685-7386 or Christian@ThePrideNetwork.org
LGBT History Month is a month-long annual observance, held in October, of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history, and the history of the gay rights and related Civil Rights movements.
The awards reception will be held Friday, October 25 at The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, located at 1401 Ocean Ave. in Asbury Park. The event starts at 7 p.m., with an open bar from 7-8 p.m. and passed hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $65 and can be purchased at ThePrideNetwork.org.
The keynote speaker at the reception will be Daniel L. Weiss, an attorney with over two decades of experience in immigration law. Weiss, a same-sex marriage advocate, is the past chair of the District IX Ethics Committee and a special master for the OAE.
The awards reception, sponsored by Wells Fargo, will recognize New Jersey’s finest leaders. Among the honorees: Carol Watchler, chair of GLSEN Central New Jersey; Steven Goldstein, founder of Garden State Equality; Laura Pople, president of Jersey Pride Inc.; Ed Zipprich, a member of the Red Bank Borough Council; Jeffrey Campbell, executive director of the Hudson Pride Connections Center; the Rev. Robert F. Kaeding, founder of The Center in Asbury Park; TJ Helmstetter, director of Communications and Development at Garden State Equality; David Hoffman, event planner and gay rights advocate in Asbury Park; and John Loffredo, deputy mayor of Asbury Park.
Entertainment provided by DJ Mick Hale, and event design by Peter James Floral Couture.
The youth awards brunch, recognizing New Jersey’s finest young leaders, will be held Sunday, October 27 at The Hotel Tides Restaurant & Spa, located at 408 7th Ave. in Asbury Park. The brunch, sponsored by The Pride Network and the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN), begins at 1 p.m. and the cost is $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at ThePrideNetwork.org
The Pride Network strives to develop a more involved and informed LGBTQ community through leadership programs and practical solutions that build, educate and empower sustainable community networks. The organization also looks to a time when a fundamental part of being an LGBTQ individual is the opportunity to access a community that empowers and informs its members about their collective past, present and future.
For more information on these events held to honor LGBT History Month, contact Christian Fuscarino, director of The Pride Network, at 732-685-7386 or Christian@ThePrideNetwork.org
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Embrace your indiscretions ~ no matter how ashamed you are of them
A funny thing happened on the way to the beach last week.
I wasn't planning on getting into the water ... I only swim in pools.
But I just love to sit on the boardwalk and watch the water. And by water, I mean the hot men.
So as I'm sitting there, deep in thought about my next blog entry, the subject just strolled by me. And as this man strolled by me, I instinctively put my hood over my head with the swiftness.
Sad to say, the hood was the only thing to hide me from ~~~ my indiscretion.
We all have one, or two, or 10! It's that person who you had "relations" with, who you are sort of ashamed of admitting.
That person could be a bit psychotic whose craziness was a hot turn-on in the boudoir, but in the light of day, you just know that everyone knows this fruit loop is one of Asbury Park's mental cases.
Or the person could be the biggest jerk in this city, but you didn't care at the time of the deed because you thought, "Hey, it's just sex!" But then it's the times afterward that you are just way too embarrassed to admit to your friends that the city's big jerk was someone you had sex with because you know you will be in for judgment.
Then you have the person who is the biggest flamer around, and despite the fact that he was a lion in the sack, in broad daylight he's just Mary's little lamb to everyone around the city. So when he comes up to you in a group of your friends, you steer all conversation away from any words that might give away the fact that you took him home with you one lonely night.
Well, mine was the psychotic. Hot, hot, hot in the bedroom ... but not, not, not in real life. So as I was able to avoid that awkward conversation, I felt a twinge of guilt. Who was I to judge? I mean, everyone has their faults, right?
Well guilt quickly turned to wonderment. Being the introspective gay that I am, I started to wonder, "Hey, am I anyone's hidden indiscretion?!?"
Everyone has sex with everyone around this city. But how many of us are ashamed to admit that we've had sex with someone not so desirable?
I would hate to think that a person that I had sex with would be afraid for others to know he did. But then again, we all have that person in our past ... or present.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that if you run into that person, don't ignore him/her because you are ashamed of your "relations" with this person. Just smile, greet that person with a warm hello, chit-chat a little. It would go a long way in making this city a friendlier place.
And isn't that what all of us gays really want ~ a friendly city?
Now the next time I run into my psychotic indiscretion, I know now what I will do ... Hell, I'm going to do the same exact thing I did last week! The dude is cra-cra!!
Sorry 'bout it ... but Bernadine isn't!
I wasn't planning on getting into the water ... I only swim in pools.
But I just love to sit on the boardwalk and watch the water. And by water, I mean the hot men.
So as I'm sitting there, deep in thought about my next blog entry, the subject just strolled by me. And as this man strolled by me, I instinctively put my hood over my head with the swiftness.
Sad to say, the hood was the only thing to hide me from ~~~ my indiscretion.
We all have one, or two, or 10! It's that person who you had "relations" with, who you are sort of ashamed of admitting.
That person could be a bit psychotic whose craziness was a hot turn-on in the boudoir, but in the light of day, you just know that everyone knows this fruit loop is one of Asbury Park's mental cases.
Or the person could be the biggest jerk in this city, but you didn't care at the time of the deed because you thought, "Hey, it's just sex!" But then it's the times afterward that you are just way too embarrassed to admit to your friends that the city's big jerk was someone you had sex with because you know you will be in for judgment.
Then you have the person who is the biggest flamer around, and despite the fact that he was a lion in the sack, in broad daylight he's just Mary's little lamb to everyone around the city. So when he comes up to you in a group of your friends, you steer all conversation away from any words that might give away the fact that you took him home with you one lonely night.
Well, mine was the psychotic. Hot, hot, hot in the bedroom ... but not, not, not in real life. So as I was able to avoid that awkward conversation, I felt a twinge of guilt. Who was I to judge? I mean, everyone has their faults, right?
Well guilt quickly turned to wonderment. Being the introspective gay that I am, I started to wonder, "Hey, am I anyone's hidden indiscretion?!?"
Everyone has sex with everyone around this city. But how many of us are ashamed to admit that we've had sex with someone not so desirable?
I would hate to think that a person that I had sex with would be afraid for others to know he did. But then again, we all have that person in our past ... or present.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that if you run into that person, don't ignore him/her because you are ashamed of your "relations" with this person. Just smile, greet that person with a warm hello, chit-chat a little. It would go a long way in making this city a friendlier place.
And isn't that what all of us gays really want ~ a friendly city?
Now the next time I run into my psychotic indiscretion, I know now what I will do ... Hell, I'm going to do the same exact thing I did last week! The dude is cra-cra!!
Sorry 'bout it ... but Bernadine isn't!
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Don't worry, summer may be over but this city will still be sizzling
Now that the summer is over, and the out-of-towners have begun to vacate our fair city, things can get back to normal (as normal as Asbury Park can be).
And if anyone is thinking that things will slow down around this city, think again.
There are so many events, openings and happenings in store, the city will have so much to offer. Here are some things we can look forward to enjoying:
1) The reopening of La Sierra, now under the name Cascada
As many of us already know, La Sierra closed in the past couple of months to totally renovate and transform itself into a swanky nightclub atmosphere. Being the investigative reporter that I am, I was able to get a peek. And I must say, it looks awesome.
Recently I spoke with CeeMour Cox, entertainer of the year and the host of its Drag Warz, which happens on Monday nights. She was able to fill me in on some of the things on the new club's horizons.
CeeMour says "For Drag Warz, expect the unexpected. The competitions will continue, with upcoming twists and turns that will blow your minds. More drag stars, etc. I just can't wait to start it off!"
With regards to the new night spot, Miss Cox shares, "Cascada will have even better service and it will have more of an ambiance. We're looking to bring a cleaner crowd with familiar and new faces. We don't want to be known as "Oh it's a Mexican bar", or a straight bar with "a gay night" because we are so much more than that. We are going to be a nightclub that is diverse in every way, just like our beautiful town is."
The nightclub will reopen this fall, so let's amp up and support the business.
2) Fun times at Georgie's Bar
Georgie's Bar always holds the excitement for the community. It has always been a place where people can hang out and have drinks served by some awesome bartenders, dance, eat some great bar food courtesy of Pepe's Pit Stop, shoot pool, be throughly entertained by some fierce drag queens, listen to the jukebox and sing a little song or two on the stage.
Here's a rundown on what happens during the week:
On Mondays you can enjoy half-priced drinks with the city's favorite Ginger, Joe Cole;
On Tuesdays it's "Tempted Tuesdayz", when you can watch some very sexy go-go boys from New Hope and Philly while DJ Matty Flip spins the tunes. (P.S. - my favorite is Angel, or who some refer to as Clark Kent)! Yeah boy!!
On Wednesdays and Saturdays, karaoke hostess Jilly Sentino lets us belt out some strong vocals (or for some like me, sing like I'm trying to break a champagne glass).
On Thursdays we have a real treat, as Christy Girlington takes the stage as host of the bar's night of drag. Christy and the rest of the drag queens perform their hearts out as DJ Mick Hale spins the tunes, and at the end of the show, the queens get the chance to Kiki for the Coin to decide who the evening's winner will be. Such fun to watch!
On Fridays musical talent performs for the crowd, and Sundays will be the football on the TV screen while a lot of alcohol flows.
3) Paradise nightclub
So many thrilling things happen at Paradise. You can dance the night away to some great music, enjoy karaoke, stay at its Empress Hotel, enjoy some time in the pool, get some great drinks from some cool bartenders and feel like you are part of the family (unless you get messy, rambunctious drunk and find yourself escorted out by an awesome group of security guards - I never get messy drunk so I'm good! :-)
Sundays you can hang out for drinks and then once the nighttime hits, you can sing as off-tune as you like during karaoke, hosted by Nick Peters.
Mondays are for moviegoers, as Skootie and Fig show some fierce films that run the gamut from "9 to 5" to "Creature from the Pink Lagoon"!
And who says playing bingo is for old ladies? Well Tuesday evenings get out your scorecards and enjoy some "Bitchy Bingo" with its host, drag queen Holly Girlington!
Wednesdays you can enjoy game night with Fig; Thursdays you can work out those frustrations during an all new Rumba-Latin Night, complete with Latin dancers, manager/bartender Jo-Jo and hosted by Verona Voulure DeMornay; and Saturday is the dance party where you can groove to the beats until 3 a.m. with a slew of amazing DJs.
And on Fridays it's on, literally, with some stellar drag queens performing center stage for our excitement, hosted by Miss Paradise 2013 Empress Vizcaya Lord. A don't miss!
4) Hotel Tides Restaurant and Spa
This place sizzles in the summers and doesn't slow down just because autumn is approaching. This is a great place to stay, and during the fall you will still be able to see some great musical performers from all over the map.
And of course, the cuisine served by the fabulous chef and his staff is to die for! And I love to eat a good meal since I don't like to cook myself. The menu is all the buzz; you should definitely check it out. If you do, you will definitely be back for more!
Piano and songstress extraordinaire Barbara Rose; jazz duo Debra and Patrick; music man Josh Zuckerman; rockin' duo Wendy and Lisa; just to name a few. The hotel is always spotlighting talented artists during the art showings, and once RuPaul's Drag Race premieres, the crowd descends on the hotel bar for its viewing parties every Monday night.
5) Booze Bus Crawl
The last one, about a year ago, was a roaring success. So now it's back again this October. Organized by entertainment planner/bartender David Hoffman and Ryan Jimenez, who runs the Hotel Tides, this will surely be a hit once again. What better way to drink and get from bar to bar than to ride on this party bus?
The bus will stop at Georgie's Bar, Hotel Tides, Cascada and Paradise, in that order. The crawl, occurring Oct. 4th from 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., will have drink specials at the stops and the cost is $30.
So contact David or Ryan and get your tickets fast so you don't miss out on this event!
6) LGBT History Month
This October we all will be celebrating the history of those who have paved the way for all of us to get a little closer to full equality. There will be a number of events occurring to commemorate the successes of us all. I am in the process of working with Ryan, attorney and owner of the Kissing Booth Stephanie Hunnell, and LGBTQ leader Christian Fuscarino to make this month one that will not soon be forgotten.
Stay tuned for an upcoming blog on the final plans.
7) Ricky McChesney Tribute
So many of us in the community knew Ricky, and his death has been felt throughout.
Next Sunday, Sept. 8th, his family and friends will be holding a tribute in his honor at Paradise. The event, held from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., will be hosted by CeeMour Cox. A portion of the proceeds will benefit The Trevor Project. Tickets are $25 at the door, $20 advance purchase. For advance purchase, you can contact Barbara McChesney, 732-996-1643. You can also contact Paradise for more information.
Please come out and show your support, as Ricky's family and friends will be sharing memories and honoring his life.
These are just some happenings coming up in the near future. Check out these hot spots and events and support the community. Remember, you get back as much as you give out.
And if I forgot anyone or any events, this will be my disclaimer, as I smile coyly, shrug my shoulders and utter those five little words ... "Good God, getta grip girl!"
And if anyone is thinking that things will slow down around this city, think again.
There are so many events, openings and happenings in store, the city will have so much to offer. Here are some things we can look forward to enjoying:
1) The reopening of La Sierra, now under the name Cascada
As many of us already know, La Sierra closed in the past couple of months to totally renovate and transform itself into a swanky nightclub atmosphere. Being the investigative reporter that I am, I was able to get a peek. And I must say, it looks awesome.
Recently I spoke with CeeMour Cox, entertainer of the year and the host of its Drag Warz, which happens on Monday nights. She was able to fill me in on some of the things on the new club's horizons.
CeeMour says "For Drag Warz, expect the unexpected. The competitions will continue, with upcoming twists and turns that will blow your minds. More drag stars, etc. I just can't wait to start it off!"
With regards to the new night spot, Miss Cox shares, "Cascada will have even better service and it will have more of an ambiance. We're looking to bring a cleaner crowd with familiar and new faces. We don't want to be known as "Oh it's a Mexican bar", or a straight bar with "a gay night" because we are so much more than that. We are going to be a nightclub that is diverse in every way, just like our beautiful town is."
The nightclub will reopen this fall, so let's amp up and support the business.
2) Fun times at Georgie's Bar
Georgie's Bar always holds the excitement for the community. It has always been a place where people can hang out and have drinks served by some awesome bartenders, dance, eat some great bar food courtesy of Pepe's Pit Stop, shoot pool, be throughly entertained by some fierce drag queens, listen to the jukebox and sing a little song or two on the stage.
Here's a rundown on what happens during the week:
On Mondays you can enjoy half-priced drinks with the city's favorite Ginger, Joe Cole;
On Tuesdays it's "Tempted Tuesdayz", when you can watch some very sexy go-go boys from New Hope and Philly while DJ Matty Flip spins the tunes. (P.S. - my favorite is Angel, or who some refer to as Clark Kent)! Yeah boy!!
On Wednesdays and Saturdays, karaoke hostess Jilly Sentino lets us belt out some strong vocals (or for some like me, sing like I'm trying to break a champagne glass).
On Thursdays we have a real treat, as Christy Girlington takes the stage as host of the bar's night of drag. Christy and the rest of the drag queens perform their hearts out as DJ Mick Hale spins the tunes, and at the end of the show, the queens get the chance to Kiki for the Coin to decide who the evening's winner will be. Such fun to watch!
On Fridays musical talent performs for the crowd, and Sundays will be the football on the TV screen while a lot of alcohol flows.
3) Paradise nightclub
So many thrilling things happen at Paradise. You can dance the night away to some great music, enjoy karaoke, stay at its Empress Hotel, enjoy some time in the pool, get some great drinks from some cool bartenders and feel like you are part of the family (unless you get messy, rambunctious drunk and find yourself escorted out by an awesome group of security guards - I never get messy drunk so I'm good! :-)
Sundays you can hang out for drinks and then once the nighttime hits, you can sing as off-tune as you like during karaoke, hosted by Nick Peters.
Mondays are for moviegoers, as Skootie and Fig show some fierce films that run the gamut from "9 to 5" to "Creature from the Pink Lagoon"!
And who says playing bingo is for old ladies? Well Tuesday evenings get out your scorecards and enjoy some "Bitchy Bingo" with its host, drag queen Holly Girlington!
Wednesdays you can enjoy game night with Fig; Thursdays you can work out those frustrations during an all new Rumba-Latin Night, complete with Latin dancers, manager/bartender Jo-Jo and hosted by Verona Voulure DeMornay; and Saturday is the dance party where you can groove to the beats until 3 a.m. with a slew of amazing DJs.
And on Fridays it's on, literally, with some stellar drag queens performing center stage for our excitement, hosted by Miss Paradise 2013 Empress Vizcaya Lord. A don't miss!
4) Hotel Tides Restaurant and Spa
This place sizzles in the summers and doesn't slow down just because autumn is approaching. This is a great place to stay, and during the fall you will still be able to see some great musical performers from all over the map.
And of course, the cuisine served by the fabulous chef and his staff is to die for! And I love to eat a good meal since I don't like to cook myself. The menu is all the buzz; you should definitely check it out. If you do, you will definitely be back for more!
Piano and songstress extraordinaire Barbara Rose; jazz duo Debra and Patrick; music man Josh Zuckerman; rockin' duo Wendy and Lisa; just to name a few. The hotel is always spotlighting talented artists during the art showings, and once RuPaul's Drag Race premieres, the crowd descends on the hotel bar for its viewing parties every Monday night.
5) Booze Bus Crawl
The last one, about a year ago, was a roaring success. So now it's back again this October. Organized by entertainment planner/bartender David Hoffman and Ryan Jimenez, who runs the Hotel Tides, this will surely be a hit once again. What better way to drink and get from bar to bar than to ride on this party bus?
The bus will stop at Georgie's Bar, Hotel Tides, Cascada and Paradise, in that order. The crawl, occurring Oct. 4th from 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., will have drink specials at the stops and the cost is $30.
So contact David or Ryan and get your tickets fast so you don't miss out on this event!
6) LGBT History Month
This October we all will be celebrating the history of those who have paved the way for all of us to get a little closer to full equality. There will be a number of events occurring to commemorate the successes of us all. I am in the process of working with Ryan, attorney and owner of the Kissing Booth Stephanie Hunnell, and LGBTQ leader Christian Fuscarino to make this month one that will not soon be forgotten.
Stay tuned for an upcoming blog on the final plans.
7) Ricky McChesney Tribute
So many of us in the community knew Ricky, and his death has been felt throughout.
Next Sunday, Sept. 8th, his family and friends will be holding a tribute in his honor at Paradise. The event, held from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., will be hosted by CeeMour Cox. A portion of the proceeds will benefit The Trevor Project. Tickets are $25 at the door, $20 advance purchase. For advance purchase, you can contact Barbara McChesney, 732-996-1643. You can also contact Paradise for more information.
Please come out and show your support, as Ricky's family and friends will be sharing memories and honoring his life.
These are just some happenings coming up in the near future. Check out these hot spots and events and support the community. Remember, you get back as much as you give out.
And if I forgot anyone or any events, this will be my disclaimer, as I smile coyly, shrug my shoulders and utter those five little words ... "Good God, getta grip girl!"
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Save the date ... a benefit planned for one of our own, David Hoffman
As many of us in the community already know, Asbury Park bartender and event planner ~ and Pink Prom King 2013 ~ David Hoffman has been ill for a bit now.
He's been having a lot of medical difficulties, and he's being put through painful procedures to find some relief for his condition. He's been diagnosed with neuropathy and walking is close to impossible for him, he's had fevers and at the latest, he had to undergo a spinal tap. Through it all, David has managed to hold on to his sense of humor and spirits. When I was speaking to him, he even made ME laugh. He does that to everyone; just one of the reasons we love him.
Now for those who don't know what it is, neuropathy is a collection of disorders that occurs when nerves of the peripheral nervous system (the part of the nervous system outside of the brain and spinal cord) are damaged.
Words of love and prayers have been expressed by so many members of the community and beyond for David's quick recovery. This condition has rendered him unable to work at this time and to help him financially and to show our support, the community will be putting on a benefit for one of our own.
Now everyone knows that when any of us have experienced some difficulty in our lives, David has always, always been one of the first ones to come to our rescue, either with words of wisdom, a shoulder to cry on, a hand being lent, or a fundraising benefit to help us make it over the hump. He's done this for over 20 years ... it's just the kind of man that he is.
So now, it's time to give back to the man who always gives us so much!
The benefit will be held Sunday, July 14th from 5 to 9 p.m. at Georgie's Bar, located at 5th and Memorial in Asbury Park, NJ. What we can expect for a $5 donation at the door is a hell of a lot of love. There will be go-go dancers; performances by Christy Girlington, host of drag night Thursdays at Georgie's and a favorite in the community, and Georgie's karaoke hostess and fabulous singer Jilly Sentino; a silent auction; 50/50; and a food buffet.
When I spoke to him, he explained a lot of the problems he's been having from years of up-and-down medical struggles. I wanted to go into detail about it, but I think me writing it will never be the same as the words that David will have to say at the benefit.
I know this for sure ~ those individuals in the community who think they are invincible and there may be some magic pill to overcome all medical crises should get out to the benefit to not only support David, but also to hear what he has to say. He's been through the ups and downs of his HIV-positive status, and to hit it home for all of us, you need to see first-hand.
Okay, this is when I shouldn't be listening to George Harrison's "My Sweet Lord" while writing this blog because the song has a lot to say and makes me cry a bit.
David has been there for all of us, myself included. A couple of years ago, when my mother was close to death, my family was going to have to make some difficult decisions, and I was having a hard time with it. More than most people know. But living a distance from my family, I just needed someone to talk to about it all, someone at that particular moment (while I'm in tears) who would be supportive, firm, wise and would tell me what I may not want to hear but needed to hear to clear my mind. I called David. We talked, it must have been, for a couple of hours. After speaking with him, I knew that I had to allow others to support me, but I had to be the strong one as well. My mother passed away a few days later. David's words were just what I needed to hear to come to peace with it. When I moved up here, gee about 6 years ago, David was working at The Harrison and was one of the first people who extended a friendly hand to me to make me feel welcome.
Whenever David sees me, his first words are, "Everybody loves a parade" ... Parade - his nickname for me ... love it!
We've been friends ever since. He's one of my closest friends and confidantes. He's a friend and confidante to us all.
So we all need to come together and support David. He's given so much to make the LGBTQ community a much more unified group, and it's time we give back.
I also request that we all send up prayers for our brother to make a speedy recovery.
Benefit ~ Sunday, July 14th ~ 5-9 p.m. ~ Georgie's Bar ... Be there!
He's been having a lot of medical difficulties, and he's being put through painful procedures to find some relief for his condition. He's been diagnosed with neuropathy and walking is close to impossible for him, he's had fevers and at the latest, he had to undergo a spinal tap. Through it all, David has managed to hold on to his sense of humor and spirits. When I was speaking to him, he even made ME laugh. He does that to everyone; just one of the reasons we love him.
Now for those who don't know what it is, neuropathy is a collection of disorders that occurs when nerves of the peripheral nervous system (the part of the nervous system outside of the brain and spinal cord) are damaged.
Words of love and prayers have been expressed by so many members of the community and beyond for David's quick recovery. This condition has rendered him unable to work at this time and to help him financially and to show our support, the community will be putting on a benefit for one of our own.
Now everyone knows that when any of us have experienced some difficulty in our lives, David has always, always been one of the first ones to come to our rescue, either with words of wisdom, a shoulder to cry on, a hand being lent, or a fundraising benefit to help us make it over the hump. He's done this for over 20 years ... it's just the kind of man that he is.
So now, it's time to give back to the man who always gives us so much!
The benefit will be held Sunday, July 14th from 5 to 9 p.m. at Georgie's Bar, located at 5th and Memorial in Asbury Park, NJ. What we can expect for a $5 donation at the door is a hell of a lot of love. There will be go-go dancers; performances by Christy Girlington, host of drag night Thursdays at Georgie's and a favorite in the community, and Georgie's karaoke hostess and fabulous singer Jilly Sentino; a silent auction; 50/50; and a food buffet.
When I spoke to him, he explained a lot of the problems he's been having from years of up-and-down medical struggles. I wanted to go into detail about it, but I think me writing it will never be the same as the words that David will have to say at the benefit.
I know this for sure ~ those individuals in the community who think they are invincible and there may be some magic pill to overcome all medical crises should get out to the benefit to not only support David, but also to hear what he has to say. He's been through the ups and downs of his HIV-positive status, and to hit it home for all of us, you need to see first-hand.
Okay, this is when I shouldn't be listening to George Harrison's "My Sweet Lord" while writing this blog because the song has a lot to say and makes me cry a bit.
David has been there for all of us, myself included. A couple of years ago, when my mother was close to death, my family was going to have to make some difficult decisions, and I was having a hard time with it. More than most people know. But living a distance from my family, I just needed someone to talk to about it all, someone at that particular moment (while I'm in tears) who would be supportive, firm, wise and would tell me what I may not want to hear but needed to hear to clear my mind. I called David. We talked, it must have been, for a couple of hours. After speaking with him, I knew that I had to allow others to support me, but I had to be the strong one as well. My mother passed away a few days later. David's words were just what I needed to hear to come to peace with it. When I moved up here, gee about 6 years ago, David was working at The Harrison and was one of the first people who extended a friendly hand to me to make me feel welcome.
Whenever David sees me, his first words are, "Everybody loves a parade" ... Parade - his nickname for me ... love it!
We've been friends ever since. He's one of my closest friends and confidantes. He's a friend and confidante to us all.
So we all need to come together and support David. He's given so much to make the LGBTQ community a much more unified group, and it's time we give back.
I also request that we all send up prayers for our brother to make a speedy recovery.
Benefit ~ Sunday, July 14th ~ 5-9 p.m. ~ Georgie's Bar ... Be there!
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