Author Archives: MC Film Festival
Towel Dancing at Liquid Lounge
Fireworks from rooftop of RISE
New Police 'Hallway of Heroes Memorial Mural' For District 3
Tampa Police Officers David Curtis Family and Jeff Kocab Family, Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, former Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio, Tampa Police Chief Jane Castor and 400 fellow officers, friends and citizens shared the new memorial police walkway entrance to Tampa Police Dept. District 3 Headquarters named Hallway of Heroes. The light rain didn’t damper the somber occasion.
The names and badges of the 2 murdered police officers are etched in glass and backlit by blue LED in the entryway. It was exactly 1 year ago, June 29th, Tampa went through a manhunt and devastating night as the officers were working and did a routine traffic stop in East Tampa. They were gunned down when trying to make an arrest by accused shooter and passenger, Dontae Morris.
“I just wish I can turn the clock back.” said tearing Pam Iorio told the crowd and gave hugs to the 2 officers wives and family members.
A lot of businesses, organizations including GaYBOR District Coalition and individuals stood up to make this project happen. Donated time, energy and products came from the local community. A new memorial reflection garden is also in the works for the Distr. 3 police headquarters.
GaYBOR District & Hampton Inn Donate Police Bicycle For Ybor City
Another community arousing effort by the GaYBOR District Coalition and Hampton Inn & Suites. Steven Nunez, mgr and Carrie West, President of GaYBOR District with the full GaYBOR Board handed the $2000 Hi Tech police equipped TREK Bicycle over to the Tampa Police Dept.and Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn. The mayor greeted with enthusiasm the efforts Tampa communities including GaYBOR for all the efforts in helping out the city in this national recession. The bicycle is going to be used by our community officers Sean Mahabir and Kevin Krupa for a broad based effort to help assist visiting tourists and riding through the historic cities residential alleys for any suspicious activity.
GaYBOR Member of the Week
Retailer and Cigar Connoisseur… Don Barco
Don Barco is the owner of “King Corona Cigars” in Ybor City. He was also a founding member of the GaYBOR District Coalition! King Corona is our favorite place for Cuban cafe’ con leche’ & town gossip! Don and his wife, Brenda had a small cigar shop in the old Ybor Square Cigar Factory for many years before moving to the 7th Ave shop. Involved in all Ybor City boards and local city politics, most all political candidates have a forum or event at King Corona. Many of our small GaYBOR meetings are also held here in this friendly welcoming environment. With a large outside cafe patio, you can enjoy people watching while in the great outdoors. When the Hillsborough County Commissioners did not sign the GaYBOR Proclamation, Don was one of the first to stand up and say that’s not right!
As board member Richard said, ” I just love Don! He is a Straight, Gay Freedom Fighter!!” Stop by King Corona today for a sandwich, lunch, fine handmade cigar, variety of coffees, assorted fine wines, unique books & a good time!!!
People R Talking
We hear more international and national GLBT travel journalists are heading to Tampa Bay to visit the GaYBOR District. Tampa Bay & Company ( Hills Cty Convention Tourism Bureau) asked again for help in showcasing Tampa’s gem area in the GaYBOR District in historic Ybor City this Thursday. Speaking of tour engagements, GaYBOR has a great 6 page spread in the new summer released German high gloss classy European magazine, Spartacus Traveler. It was 2 months ago writers from both Brazilian Gay Magazine and German writers from Bruno Gmunder – Spartacus Europe Publishing visited and toured Ybor City, Tampa and St. Petersburg. The photos and feature articles is great but it’s only written in German! Thank You to writer, Dirk Baumgartl for the Over the Top Great article. Look for more visiting German GLBT tourists! On July 4th friends, Bryan and Tim’s new Victorian house along the Hillsborough River was hit by lightning and started on fire. They are out of the house now for the major repairs. A very clever scooter was parked on 7th Ave.this week. It had a roof!
From the MC Film Mail Bag….
About the show:
Andrew Rally seems to have it all: celebrity and acclaim from his starring role in a hit TV series; a rich, beautiful girlfriend; a glamorous, devoted agent; the perfect New York apartment; and the chance to play Hamlet in Central Park. There are, however, a couple of glitches in paradise: his series has been canceled; his girlfriend is clinging to her virginity with unyielding conviction; and he has no desire to play Hamlet. When Andrew’s agent visits, she reminisces about her brief romance with John Barrymore many years ago, in Andrew’s apartment. They summon his ghost and from the moment Barrymore returns, Andrew’s life is no longer his own. Barrymore, fortified by champagne and ego, presses Andrew to accept the part and fulfill his actor’s destiny. The laughs are nonstop as Andrew wrestles with his conscience, Barrymore and his sword.
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TAMPA GEARS UP FOR WORLD
DRAGON BOAT CHAMPIONSHIP
All eyes will be on Tampa Bay in August as the area hosts the 10th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championship. The IDBF Championship will take place on the Seddon Channel in downtown Tampa from Aug. 2-7.
It has been nearly a decade since the United States hosted the World Championship, and teams from more than 20 countries, including the United States, Canada, Russia, China, Philippines, Trinidad and Tobago, and more, are expected to arrive in Tampa to compete.
The Tampa Bay area is no stranger to dragon boat racing. It has served as the location for the annual Tampa Bay International Dragon Boat Races since 2004 and with the help of the Tampa Bay Dragon Boat Institute has become one of the most successful dragon boat cities in North America.
The Tampa Bay community is invited to take part in all the excitement, including the opening ceremonies on Aug. 2 at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, which is a free event. It takes place from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and includes a parade of nations and world-class entertainment and will serve as a grand welcome to Tampa Bay.
The racing begins on Wednesday, Aug. 3 and concludes on Sunday, Aug. 7, and will include racing from 500 meters to 2,000 meters. Competitors will be as young as 12 years old in the Junior Division and exceeding 65 years old in the Grand Dragon Division. For more information, including race schedules and public events, log on to www.tampa2011.idbfworldchamps.com.
Tampa Bay & Company leads the effort of “Economic Development Through Tourism” in Hillsborough County. Comprised of approximately 700 members, the mission of Tampa Bay & Company is to create vibrant growth for the Tampa Bay area by promoting, developing and expanding a united visitor industry.
Economic Development Through Tourism
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Subj: PRESS RELEASE New Film Project (My Fair Lidy) in Orlando
PRESS RELEASE:
MY FAIR LIDY
…a human comedy about tolerance & illusion…..
Involving….
Construction workers, Marlene Dietrich…….. and a few drag queens!……...
Exciting news about a new film project that starts shooting July 7th right here in Orlando. This will be starring Christopher Backus co starring Leigh Shannon and lots of great local professional actors being used. Rus Blackwell, Michele Ferrin, Erin Andrews & more. If you need any further information, please contact me Executive Producer Sandi Bell and/or Co Producer Leigh Shannon. We can share whatever you need to help let people know of this great project. We will be shooting at great locations like Parliament House, Shakers Cafe, Church Street, Hot Dog Heaven, Winter Haven, Ritzy Rags Wigs & More and Lake Ivanhoe.
“My Fair Lidy” SAG Indie Film being filmed entirely in Orange County, Florida.
Produced by local Film Producer, Sandi Bell, SandWoman Films, LLC, in conjunction with Valencia College Film School, Directed by Ralph Clemente, DGA and Program Chair of Valencia Film Production Technology and Co- Producer, Leigh Shannon, local Celebrity Comedian Performer. Also…..Stars Christopher Backus as “Lidy” and co starring Leigh Shannon as “Sal”.
With over 30 speaking roles, 95% of the actors are local talent and 90% of the Crew are local film makers.
12 actors are members of the Gay or Transgender communities.
Some of those actors are Tia Devine as Fallex, Melissa Mason as Cherry Nougatt, Crystle Chambers as Cher, Page King as Donna Summer and store clerk, Mercedes Deverore as Liza, Darcel Stevens as Sugar, and Sassy Devine as Exotic Dancer.
Film Florida has awarded State Film Incentive funds for the production of “My Fair Lidy”.
“My Fair Lidy” is a timely film that delivers a message of tolerance, offered up as a good natured comedy. It is also a great tribute to meaga star Marlene Dietrich.
www.myfairlidy.weebly.com
Leigh Shannon, Producer
My Fair Lidy
Sandwoman Films
www.leighshannon.com
leishannon1@aol.com
407- 443-0241
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SAVE THE DATE
Thursday Evening December 1, 2011 (World AIDS Day)
2011 Tampa Bay Red Ribbon Run
Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo |
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5k Walk / Run / Virtual Run 5-6:45pm check-in/entertainment 7pm run/walk 8pm awards ceremony Rain or Shine
Annual fundraiser to support the HIV/AIDS education, advocacy, prevention, and treatment programs of The AIDS Institute and
Click Here for Event Website Location
Host:
Goals 300 participants $50,000 ($25,000 for each organization)
Snacks, refreshments and prizes for all participants and fundraisers. Fun for all ages, and family friendly.
For more information, contact Ted Howard at |
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The AIDS Institute, Inc. a 501(c)3 organization, is a national nonprofit organization that promotes action for social change through public policy research, advocacy and education. http://www.theaidsinstitute.org/
Metropolitan Charities, Inc. a 501(c)3 organization, is committed to providing premier HIV services, social networking, and other health and wellness programs that enhance the quality of life. We strive to promote a healthy environment for all and to foster diversity within the community as a whole, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or economic status. http://www.metrocharities.org/
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Headlines from this Weeks
Headlines from this Weeks
“Dishing with Mark & Carrie”
to read all scroll down
This is THE BIG GaYBOR DAY’s 2011 SHOWCASE WEEK!
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Queen & I Thai Restaurant, GaYBOR Thanks You
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MC FILM PRIDE SPECIAL
The Annual PRIDE WEEK SPECIAL is on now at MC FILM.
MC FILM PRIDE SPECIAL
The Annual PRIDE WEEK SPECIAL is on now at MC FILM.
30% + off underwear, swim suits, shirts, flags and decorations.
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Gay Marriage Set to Boost New York Tourism
Gay Marriage Set to Boost New York Tourism
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St. Pete Pride
100’s of Photos
100’s of Photos
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What would make Esme Russell lay down on the floor
in disbelief @ Hamburger Mary’s?
Read about it in this weeks Dishing.
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Great Friends @ G.BAR
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Cat House Party @ The Honey Pot
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Good Times @ Liquid Lounge
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FUN @ The Social
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People are Talking
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Just Say “N”
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Meet the GaYBOR Member of the Week
Tessa Shiver
Tessa Shiver
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Mark & Carrie’s Nephew of the Week
Mikey McKinney
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From the MC Film Mail Bag…
Mikey McKinney
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From the MC Film Mail Bag…
Take a Walk Down the Aisle with “Our Son’s Wedding ” at FST.
Forget Your Troubles Come On Get Happy!”
Dishing with Mark & Carrie 6-29-11
GaYBOR Day’s 2011
HAPPY 4th of July
This is THE BIG GaYBOR DAY’s 2011 SHOWCASE WEEK!
GaYBOR Days 2011 is on this week. An increased crowd of thousands is expected to be coming and visiting Tampa Bay and for the 4th Annual GaYBOR District events in Historic Ybor City. What a great time to showcase the history and changes to this diverse and historic gem district. $25.00 VIP Passes get you into all events and are being sold at many GaYBOR busineses. In the lineup of events is;
Thursday, June 30 the 7th Ave FREE Community Health & Wellness Fair at the Metro Wellness & Community Center from 11am – 4pm. Free testing of HIV, diabetes, general health will be on site. A variety of over 15 different medical groups will be present to offer anyone in the community the free services and information will be on site. Young or old it is FREE for the whole community!!
Friday, July1 at 7:30 pm is the Harvey Milk Movie Night at Muvico Theaters in Centro Ybor and showing the documentary, “The Life & Times of Harvey Milk.” This is the Kick-off to the GaYBOR Day’s weekend showcasing over 100 members businesses in the district. Featured Special Guest, Stuart Milk, nephew of slain San Francisco supervisor and gay rights advocate Harvey Milk and also himself an international human rights activist. The movie event is in concert with the Hills GLBTA Democratic Caucus. A dinner before hand at Blue Dog Bistro is a preliminary to the featured movie night. The Una Voce Ray’s Chorus will warm up the evening and Hillsborough Cty.Commissioner Kevin Beckner will be in attendance. Proclamations have been received from the White House and signed by President Barack Obama, Congresswoman Cathy Castor, U.S. House of Representatives, Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn and Tampa City Council. The clubs, restaurants and businesses are offering great deals and national performing guests.
Saturday, July 2 is a day to relax and take in the museums, open air farm market, shopping, sights of the historic district or head out to the beaches and relax before the big night events. Guests dip into the area hotels pools. Stop by Joffrey’s Coffee Shop, King Corona, Mema’s Alaskan Taco’s or Fresh Mouth. A great variety of top acts all over the GaYBOR District will be showcasing our diverse community. Headliners include Intl DJ/VJ David Knapp at G. Bar.
Sunday, July 3 is a variety in Ybor Brunches. At Hamburger Mary’s is the famous Drag Queen Brunch with national special guests (15% off with VIP Pass), Gaspar’s Grotto has the make your own Bloody Mary and Seafood Brunch and at Bernini’s, their eclectic Italian Brunch. BUT the BIG INFAMOUS GaYBOR BAR CRAWL starts at 5:00 pm at the Reservoir Bar and travels to 14 bars for shots all around Ybor City. Ending at Hamburger Mary’s will be a very special RuPaul Drag Race Extravaganza Show .LOGO TV’s Ru Paul Drag Race winners Alexis Mateo joins with fellow Drag Race Competitors Yara Sofia and India Farrah for a very energetic and classy revue. Always a very memorable event.
The Ybor Eagle Leatherman’s Reunion Party is at the Social Club (Old Ybor Eagle) at 9 pm.
Monday is July 4th. At 5:00 pm is the Music Festival at Crowbar and Gaspar’s Grotto. Intl headliner VJ/DJ Power Infiniti will be spinning in the Crowbar venue during a holiday T-Dance, Drag illusionists and tallest drag queen Daphne Ferraro, Kori Stevens, and Divinity Everlasting, Jamn 106 DJ Cloe’ and Bill & Kyles Hot Karaoke with Carlos Lopez starts off the afternoon fun. At Gaspar’s Grotto is singing comedic Judy B. Goode and Pianoman Paul Thomas performing and shaking up the crowd with their antics and songs. An easy stroll to each of the clubs. Rise Sunday’s at TABU is open Monday and having the doors open at 8:30 to see the Fireworks from the clubs rooftop. FMI www.gaybor.com
Queen & I Thai Restaurant, GaYBOR Thanks You
A lively night out Tuesday at the GaYBOR BINGO at the Queen & I Thai Restaurant on Central Ave. in St. Pete. Arica Love was the “B” caller for the fun prizes. BINGO is every Tuesday and the money goes to a weekly community charity. Thank You Brian and Don.
MC FILM PRIDE SPECIAL
The Annual PRIDE WEEK SPECIAL is on now at MC FILM. 30% + off underwear, swim suits, shirts, flags and decorations.
Gay Marriage Set to Boost New York Tourism
New York’s tourism industry is cheering the state’s newly approved same-sex marriage legislation, with supporters predicting that thousands of gay couples will bring their wedding parties — and dollars — to New York once the law goes into effect July 24. Mayor Michael Bloomberg will launch “NYC I Do,” a campaign to build on the law’s passage by selling the city as a gay-wedding destination, a spokeswoman for the city’s marketing office told Bloomberg News. The city’s tourism website already includes a Q&A about the new law and highlights hotels advertising gay wedding specials. Among them: Le Parker Meridien, which offers a “Love Has No Boundaries/Born This Way” wedding package, with a ceremony and reception for 100 people for $25,000. www.biggaynews.com