2015 Pride Guide - Brooklyn Pride 2016

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Brooklyn Pride Mission Statement
The mission of Brooklyn Pride, Inc. is to produce
Pride and community events that commemorate,
educate, promote and celebrate the spirit of the
Stonewall Riots.This is a year round endeavor, culminating with an Annual 5K Run, Multicultural Festival; Parade and After-Pride Parties.
Brooklyn Pride
PO Box 150508 • Brooklyn, NY 11215
718-928-3320
[email protected]
www.BrooklynPride.org
A significant percentage of the net proceeds from
these events are invested to support other organizations and events that celebrate the strength, diversity and reaffirm the value of all LGBT
Brooklynites; groups and all others who support
the struggle for equal rights.
Connect With Us!
Facebook: BrooklynPrideInc
Twitter: @brooklyn_pride
Instagram: brooklyn_pride
Brooklyn Pride is the premier LGBT community
based-service organization in Brooklyn, serving
the neighborhood communities, from Bath Beach
to Wingate.
Board of Directors
Chair
Mickey Heller
PARADE PARTICIPANTS
Treasurer
Jerry Allred
as of print time...more to come!
Secretary
Tyler Evertsen
AIDS Healthcare Foundation
Ali Forney Center
Antique Automobile Association of Brooklyn
Bogota Latin Bistro
Brightpoint Health
Brooklyn Community Pride Center
CAMBA
Cheer New York
Chip Shop
5th Brooklyn Scouts
FDNY
Front Runners NY
Gay Men of African Decent - GMAD
Gay Men’s Health Crisis-GMHC
Gingers Bar
Greenpoint Reformed Church
Kings County Democratic Party
Lambda Independent Democrats
Lesbian Herstory Archives
Metropolitan Community Church of NY
New York City Council
92.3 AMP Radio
Public Advocate Tish James
Queens Pride
Queer Pratt
Rainbow Heights Club
Red Umbrella Project
Sirens Women’s Motorcycle Club
South Asian Lesbian & Gay Association -SALGA
Tarab NYC
The Imperial Court of New York
Xstasy Bar and Lounge
Volunteer Coordinator
Jamie Farnam
Board Members
Mohammad Hamad
Kendra Kovarik
Rio Sherry
Pride Guide
Editors: Mickey Heller & Kendra Kovarik
Design and Layout: Rori Baldari
Production: Signature Litho, Inc.
Cover Design: Rowan Foley
Graphics: Rori Baldari, Rowan Foley,
Julio Castro
The Brooklyn Pride Guide is published by Brooklyn Pride,
Inc. Reproduction or use of editorial or advertising contents in any manner without the permission of Brooklyn
Pride, Inc. is strictly prohibited. Publication in the
Newsletter or Guide of the name or photograph of any
person or organization is not to be construed as any indication of sexual orientation or opinions of said person
or organization. Brooklyn Pride, Inc. shall not be held responsible for any typographical or reproduction errors
provided by the advertisers.
© 2015 Brooklyn Pride, Inc., Brooklyn, New York
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MESSAGES FROM THE BOARD
Mickey Heller
Chair
For the last seven years, I
have been honored to have
been involved with this incredible, all-volunteer organization, serving as
co-chair and chair for the
past four. There is so much
involved in putting on Pride
Week and that can only be
accomplished by dedicated and hard-working individuals, organizations and businesses, giving of their
time, talents and treasury year-round.
First Tuesday’s “Dine With Pride” provides a
monthly opportunity to come together and share
a meal and conversation at supporting restaurants
throughout Brooklyn, and partnering with the 5th
Avenue BID during the December holiday season
are just two ways that we show our “Pride”
throughout the year. Of course everything culminates with Brooklyn Pride Week, which takes the
entire year to plan and produce.
There are so many people to thank, starting
with an incredible board of directors. Jerry, three
years on the board, and many years as friends, you
continue to teach and share your incredible wealth
of knowledge. Tyler, our second year on the board
together has made me appreciate you both even
more for your dedication and work ethic. Jamie,
you started last year with the Kid’s Space, joined
the board this year, and you continue to show your
passion for this organization that is only surpassed
by your excellent work.You are a joy to work with.
Rio and Mohammad, last year’s stage managers, you
both came onto the board and continue to bring
new ideas and views helping Brooklyn Pride move
forward. Kendra, your keen insight and ideas are
helping us to expand and do even more for the
community. Thank you all!
Our graphic artists, Rori, Rowan and Julio continue to amaze with their talent. Rowan, the cover
is incredible. Rori, you continue to put together a
beautiful Pride Guide and Julio, your designs and
event ads are wonderful. You have all been there
for last minute calls or e-mails for help and Brooklyn Pride is very grateful to all of you.
Michael, at AHF, you became involved three
years ago and by AHF’s generosity, you have helped
us go to new levels. Congratulations to our welldeserving Grand Marshals of 2015 for your sup-
port and tireless giving to the entire community.
To our sponsors, volunteers, participants and
friends, you are all vital parts to the Brooklyn Pride
Family and help to make us who we are.
For all those reading this, please support the
businesses and organizations you see in the Pride
Guide and throughout Brooklyn Pride. Because of
their support, we are able to continue to provide
an incredible week of events and expand throughout the year.
Finally, welcome home Oluyai. I look forward
to the journey we are pursuing together. You keep
me grounded while we fly together, and I am proud
to identify with you.You bring me such peace when
storms come.
Thank you all and God Bless!
Jerry Allred
Treasurer
It is hard to imagine that
19 years has passed since
a hand full of others and I
founded Brooklyn Pride.
To see what it has become amazes and pleases
me. We of course could
have not done this without your support and the support of our many
sponsors over the years. I want to applaud the
many board members that have served on this
board over the 19 years. Without your dedication
and patience, we would not be where we are
today. And of course I would never want to leave
out our tireless volunteers, who put in so many
hours to make this look so good and run so
smoothly. If you run across one of our volunteers
or know one of our current or past board members be sure and thank them.
As many of you know, after 13 years or service,
I retired from working at Brooklyn Borough Hall
as your LGBTQ liaison under the leadership of
former Borough President Marty Markowitz and
current President Eric Adams. It was time to pass
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the reigns onto someone else. I hope that you
enjoy the week long events we have planned for
you. If not, come and get involved and let your
voice be heard. We always need new members
and ideas.
all that goes along with it. She would also like to give a
special thank you to her loving partner,Thomas, for all
his support, love, and assistance.
Mohammad
Hammad
Tyler Evertsen
Mohammad Hammad joined
the Board of Brooklyn Pride
in February, 2015. He moved
to New York in the fall of
2013 to pursue graduate
studies in Sociology at The
New School. He makes an effort to stay informed and
proactive as an organizer on
issues of social (in)justice, especially those facing the United States and Middle East,
and has served on numerous academic panels. Mohammad is currently an Adjunct Professor at York College in Jamaica, NY and uses that role as a platform to
empower students, both intellectually and socially. He
currently lives in Downtown Brooklyn and enjoys
good local food and long walks, when the weather permits.
Secretary
Tyler Evertsen is a native New
Jerseyan who presently resides
in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. Having
obtained an MSW from NYU,
an MBA from AIU and currently
working on his PhD. in Education from Walden University, he is also a college professor teaching social science courses. His limited
spare time is spent advocating for HIV/AIDS causes as
well as other LGBT non-profits. As his alter-ego,Tyler
Alyxander, he is kept quite busy.
Jamie Farnam
Jamie Farnam is a Jersey girl
transplanted to Brooklyn
seven years ago. She currently resides in Park Slope
and loves how eclectic the
borough’s neighborhoods
are. She is a non-profit
professional dedicated to LGBTQIA+ causes and is so
excited to have been able to merge these two passions
working and serving on the board of Brooklyn Pride,
Inc. in its 19th year. She wishes to say a huge Thank
You to all of the volunteers and supporting partners
and a giant XO to Jeana P for all of her love and support. Can’t wait to see what Brooklyn Pride 20 has
to offer!!!
Rio Sherry
The Rochester, New York
native moved to the New
York City area in 2000 to
obtain his B.A. degrees in
Sociology and Psychology
from Manhattan College.
Rio has volunteered in the
LGBTQIA+ community
with various organizations
such as the Ali Forney Center and DapperQ, and
is active in the bustling social scene. Rio hopes to
help increase Brooklyn Pride's reach throughout
all the Brooklyn neighborhoods, as well as expand
visibility and education of issues effecting the
trans* and queer communities.
Kendra Kovarik is very excited to be a new board
member for Brooklyn Pride
19! Kendra moved across the
country to Crown Heights,
Brooklyn from Tucson, Arizona four and a half years ago.
In addition to her involvement with Brooklyn Pride,
she is currently the chair of her company’s LGBTA+
community service subcommittee. In this position, she
advocates for and works with various LGBTQIA+ organizations around the city. In her free time, she plays
bass in a band called Golden Alphabet.
Kendra would love to thank her fellow board members for their friendship, support, and selfless dedication to the rich tradition of Brooklyn Pride week and
(Photo Credit: Allison Specketer)
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Kendra Kovarik
Kings County Pipes and Drums
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GRAND MARSHALS – 2015
Farid Ali Lancheros and
George Constantinou
Farid Ali Lancheros and George Constantinou, coowners of Bogota Latin Bistro and Miti Miti Taperia
in Park Slope, are not only successful business owners but also respected community advocates with an
unwavering commitment to the welfare of the community they serve and to the members of that community whom they employ. Farid and George are also
exemplars of commitment to their own personal relationship of 14 + years.
Both Farid and George are children of immigrants
of different nationalities who sought better opportunities in America. Farid was born in Bogota, Colombia, and raised in Allentown, Pennsylvania. His father
is Palestinian; his mother, Colombian. George was
born and raised in New York. His father is Greek
Cypriot; his mother is Costa Rican. It is that diversity
that drives much of their own dedication to community and advocacy. Both have supported Brooklyn
Pride, having held various fundraisers for the organization.
Before meeting each other, Farid was an IT expert
at a Manhattan law firm and George was managing a
soul-food jazz restaurant in Brooklyn. They met at a
speed-dating event in 2001 at the New York City Gay
and Lesbian Community Center and have been making history since then.
In 2005, Farid and George opened up Bogota Latin
Bistro -- a pan-latin / Colombian restaurant in Park
Slope, Brooklyn which has become a New York dining
destination and is a New York City fixture. The jewel
in the crown of 5th Avenue restaurants, it’s packed
with eager patrons, including politicians and celebrities. Not only does the Mayor dine there, the Mayor’s
office frequently uses the restaurant as a platform for
media announcements. It also entertains celebrities:
Will Smith, Katie Couric, Wilmer Valderrama, Lisa
Ling, and numerous others have come there. For five
years in a row it has been listed by Inc. Magazine
among the fastest growing private companies in
America. George himself sits on the Inc. Business
Owners Council and Farid sits on the Board of Directors of the New York State Restaurant Association, the Park Slope 5th Avenue Business
Improvement District and recently was appointed to
the newly established Food Service Advisory Board
by NYC Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito. In
2013, the U.S. Small Business Administration honored
Farid and George with the New York Small Business
Person of the Year Award for the New York District.
After 10 successful years in business running Bogota
Latin Bistro, in 2015 Farid and George opened a second restaurant, Miti Miti Taperia, also located on Park
Slope along 5th Avenue.
If Bogota Latin Bistro has become a prominent
fixture in the community, so too have Farid and
George. They have been recognized for their commitment to recruiting from the community. Their
healthcare benefits and hiring practices are strong
positive examples (which have been profiled by the
media and are recognized by numerous awards they
have received) as they seek always to create a diverse
environment that allows people to freely express who
they are and celebrates diversity. In 2014, the White
House invited them to meet President Obama in
honor of their ethical practices, commitment to
neighborhood hiring, and other outstanding features
of their business practices.
Both have also been at the forefront of advocating
for marriage equality, and they themselves got married in 2012 – one year after same-sex marriage was
legalized in the State of New York and a year after giving birth to a set of twins through surrogacy, Gustavo
and Milena. Last year Farid and George were 1 of 14
couples to appear on “Americans in Bed,” an HBO
special focusing on relationships. They have also been
featured in Google and American Express commercials. In addition, Farid speaks on a variety of issues
and topics, including personal and professional selfdevelopment as well as entrepreneurship, the restaurant business, and social media. His is also a Personal
and Business life coach (MumtazCoaching.com).
“We’ve achieved quite a lot in the past 14 years since
we first met but we both feel strongly that our greatest achievements have been in having children and
creating a family as well as being able to marry in the
State of New York in 2012. Having my family be asked
to be Grand Marshals of this year’s Brooklyn Pride
parade and representing not only our family but to
symbolize the face of the new American family gives
us pride and we are extremely honored.”
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GRAND MARSHALS – 2015
Brooke Guinan
Brooke Guinan (pronounced
GUY-ninn) is New York
City's first openly transgender female firefighter. She has
been a strong advocate for
equality since she started
her high school's first GSA
(Gay Straight Alliance) and her passion for advocacy
has only grown with age and knowledge of the issues
that non heteronormative people face. Brooke became part of V.O.I.C.E.'s (Vocal Organization for International Courage and Equality’s)
LGBTQ media campaign for equality when she joined
as a So Trans So What model. Since then she has been
profiled on the cover of the Daily News and The Village Voice. She has also been featured on news programs such as MSNBC's the Reid Report and
HuffPost Online. Not only a fierce advocate for trans and other
LGBTQ identified people but Brooke is a passionate
advocate for women as well.Working in a male dominated field that is less than half of one percent
women, she has fought strongly with her sisters in the
United Women Firefighters to improve equality for
all in the FDNY. Brooke feels that at the end of the day she has
been very lucky as a trans woman and recognizes the
vast amount of discriminations that we face as a trans
community in this moment.There is much to fight for
and unfortunately too many who are silenced by fear
and hate. Brooke is committed to making the world
a better place where trans people no longer face either the loss of their lives or living with oppression. Brooke wishes to thank Brooklyn Pride for this
recognition, all her brothers and sisters in the
LGBTQ community for their support, and her partner and family for their unending love. In this time of
pride and strength remember as Winston Churchill
said "if you're going through hell, keep going." Stay
strong and live proud. s
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BROOKLYN PRIDE THANKS YOU...
Brooklyn Pride offers our deepest gratitude and appreciation to the individuals,
groups and organizations that provided us
unwavering support and assistance in bringing this year’s pride event to Brooklyn.
Without your support, encouragement
and belief Pride 2015 would not have
been possible.
• Daniel Ferguson &
Gilbert Gaona, Jr.
Front Runners New York
PO Box 230087
Ansonia Station
New York, NY 10023
Brooklyn, NY 11201
www.frny.org
• PO Jerry Gallante
PO Brian Laffey
78th Pct. Community Affairs Office
65 6th Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11217
(718) 636-6410
• The dedicated volunteers of
Brooklyn Pride, Inc. and
• Craig Hammerman, District
Manger, Community Board #6
260 Baltic Street
Brooklyn NY 11201
(718) 643-3027
www.brooklyncb6.org
• Kimberly Maier, Exec. Dir.
Kim Fenwick, Docent
The Old Stone House
Washington Park
336 Third Street
Brooklyn, NY 11215
The Park Slope Civic Council
357 Ninth Street
Brooklyn, NY 11215
(718) 783-1723
www.parkslopeciviccouncil.org
• Louis Greco &
The Park Slope Volunteer
Ambulance Corp
453 Bergen Street
Brooklyn, NY 11217
(718) 398-4500
www.psvac.org
• Mark Caserta Executive
Director
5th Avenue BID
172 Fifth Avenue, Box 124
Brooklyn, NY 11217
www.parkslopefifthavenuebid.com
PLEASE patronize and support the
various businesses and organizations that
placed ads in this Pride Guide. They
support Brooklyn Pride and help us
continue to get better every year.
• The Prospect Park Alliance
NYC Parks & Recreation
95 Prospect Park West
Brooklyn, NY 11215
(718) 965-8974
www.prospectpark.org
There are SO many people to thank,
and if we accidently omitted anyone, we
apologize greatly, but appreciate all of
your support.
• Nancy J. Melissas, City of New
York Parks and & Recreation
Litchfield Villa
95 Prospect Park West
Brooklyn, NY 11215
(718) 965-6993
www.prospectpark.org
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EXCELSIOR- Ever Onward and Upward!
EXCELSIOR opened in 1999 and was located at 390 Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. for fifteen years. Richard Kennedy, Mark Nayden and their staff
were proud to be a part of the LGBT community of New York City providing “an extension of everyone’s living room”- a gathering space for all.
Quickly named one of NYC‘s best bars by TIMEOUT, NEW YORK Magazine, The Village Voice and HX and NEXT Magazines, EXCELSIOR was first and foremost a
neighborhood bar. Excelsior became a place where couples met, marriages & birthdays were
celebrated, and new friendships were formed. Richard and Mark eventually celebrated their
own marriage in July 2014 after being together for 24 years. They had hoped for a five-year
extension on their lease, but unfortunately, the building was sold and they closed the doors
on August 3, 2014, vowing to relocate.
Renovation/construction has been ongoing at their new location, 563 Fifth Avenue, between
15th and 16th Streets and they hope to be open again very soon, hopefully by BROOKLYN
PRIDE 2015. The new location is more than double the original size with two floors, a performance area with a separate bar that can be used for private parties, dancing and other
events. There is a small patio area off the main floor, still perfect for relaxing on a weekend
day or any evening. Richard and Mark, Martin, Jim & Cris as well as some new faces, look
forward to raising a glass again soon, toasting the community that they love and support.
Happy Brooklyn Pride!
s
Editor’s Note: Mark was gracious to give me a sneak peak in mid-May and the place looks GREAT! We cannot
wait until the grand opening and hopefully, the good news will be that by Pride Week, Excelsior will be back
open in their new location. Check out Excelsior on Facebook to see how they are doing.
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Saturday, June 13, 2015
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BROOKLYN PRIDE 2015
PARADE ROUTE and FESTIVAL LOCATION
Saturday, June 13th
The 2015 FESTIVAL starts at 11am ON 5th Avenue, between 3rd & 9th Streets.
The PARADE will kick off at 7:30 pm at its starting point:
5th Avenue and Lincoln Place
PLEASE JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE PRIDE, BROOKLYN STYLE!
www.brooklynpride.org
Facebook: Brooklyn Pride, Inc.
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Brooklyn Pride’s 19th Annual Pride Celebration
“In Unity There Is Strength” June 8th – 13th, 2015 - SCHEDULE
SUNDAY JUNE 7th • 11:00 am Queens Pride Parade
37th Avenue & 39th Street – Jackson Heights
Join Brooklyn Pride and help us carry the huge rainbow flag
SUNDAY JUNE 7th • 6:00 pm Official Pride Week Kickoff Party
The Rock Shop – 249 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn
Party with the Hot Rabbit/Boy Wonder Crew ($5.00 cover)
MONDAY JUNE 8th • 12:00 pm - Flag Raising Ceremony
Brooklyn Borough Hall 209 Joralemon Street
Calling all Veterans and borough LGBTQIA+ organizations!
Join us as we raise the Pride Flag above Borough Hall
MONDAY JUNE 8th • 6:00pm - Pride Reception
Brooklyn Borough Hall - 209 Joralemon Street
Co-sponsored by Borough President Eric L. Adams
Boro. Pres. L. Adams honors the local LGBTQIA+ community Reception and music to follow.
Bring your dancing shoes!
TUESDAY, JUNE 9th • 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Open House & LGBTQIA + Art Exhibit “EVERYBODY in LOVE”
Sponsored by Brooklyn Community Pride Center - 4 Metrotech (Willoughby & Gold Streets)
Visit our friends at the Brooklyn Community Pride Center (BCPC). Learn about BCPC’s Work.
Refreshments, Community and Art
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10th • 7:00 pm - Interfaith Service
Brooklyn Heights Synagogue - 131 Remsen Street - Brooklyn, NY 11201
A spiritual group comprised of varying faiths will come together for a worship service for the LGBTQIA
+ community and friends
THURSDAY, JUNE 11th • 6:30 pm Screening: Matt Shepard Is A Friend Of Mine
Hosted by The Brooklyn Museum – 200 Eastern Parkway
Winner of four Best Documentary awards, followed by a panel discussion about the film, and media
coverage of hate crimes
THURSDAY, JUNE 11th • 8:00 pm Indie Rock Music Showcase
Friends and Lovers - 641 Classon Avenue
A showcase of LGBTQIA+ Brooklyn based live indie rock: Girlcrush, Bitchtits, Sateen and Golden
Alphabet. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Must be at least 21yrs old-$10 at the door
FRIDAY, JUNE 12th • 6:30 pm Queer Memoir with Kelli Dunham
AHF/Out of the Closet – 475 Atlantic Avenue 2nd Floor
NY’s first and longest running LGBT storytelling series giving voice to our collective queer experience.
Theme: Strength
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PRIDE DAY Saturday, June 13th, 2015
Pride 5K Run - 10:00 am (Check-in begins at 8:00 am / Registration, if not sold out)
Prospect Park Loop – Enter at 15th Street Bartel Pritchard Circle
Run over the beautiful rolling hills of Prospect Park for the LGBTQ+ community & friends in a festive
and inclusive environment
Multicultural Festival / Stage Entertainment (11:00 am – 5:00 pm)
Join us at 5th Avenue from 3rd to 9th Streets. It’s more than your usual street fair! TWO Stages, Shopping,
Great Food, Beer Gardens and More! Learn about community organizations, issues and local merchants
Kids Space (11:00 am – 5:00 pm)
Old Stone House / Washington Park, 5th Ave. between 3rd & 4th Streets
Fun family activities, music, face painting, arts & crafts, and more!
Twilight Pride Parade (7:30 pm Start)
5th Avenue - From Lincoln Place to 9th Street. – MC: RonB as Tina Turner
Join the fun with the ONLY “Twilight Parade in the Northeast; a celebration of our Pride and Heritage
Official Brooklyn Pride After-Party
Lot 45 – 411 Troutman Street – Bushwick - (347) 505-9155
Come Party with Hot Rabbit/Boy Wonder Productions – $10 Cover
718-928-3320
The 5th Brooklyn Scouts
The 5th Brooklyn Scouts are a co-ed, all inclusive Scouting group, with an emphasis on "back to basics" traditional Scouting. As part of the nationwide Baden-Powell Service Association (B-PSA), the
5th Brooklyn gender-neutral program focuses on the outdoors, including camping, woodcraft, orienteering and nature games and crafts. We also emphasize service and "Good Turns", and engage
with the community through both service projects, field trips to key community services, and our
unique "Brooklyn" badge. 5th Brooklyn has four age-based divisions: Chipmunks (under 5), Otters
(5 - 7), Timberwolves (8 - 10) and Pathfinders (ages 11 - 18). The group welcomes all families, regardless of religious affiliation, gender identification or sexual orientation.
5th Brooklyn Scouts will be the recipient of the Brooklyn Pride 5K Run
Community Grant this year. 23
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Many thanks to our
Dine With Pride Hosts
Cheryl's
236 Underhill Ave,
Brooklyn, NY 11238
http://www.cherylsglobalsoul.com/
Tutu's
25 Bogart St, Brooklyn, NY 11206
www.tutusbrooklyn.com
Wheated
905 Church Ave,
Brooklyn, NY 11218
http://wheatedbrooklyn.com/
Mo's Fort Greene
80 Lafayette Ave,
Brooklyn, NY 11217
[email protected]
917-494-4606
Bedford Hall
1177 Bedford Ave,
Brooklyn, NY 11216
http://www.bedfordhall.com/
Bogota Latin Bistro
141 5th Ave,
Brooklyn, NY 11217
http://bogotabistro.com/
Chip Shop
129 Atlantic Ave,
Brooklyn, NY 11201
http://www.chipshopnyc.com/
And another special thanks to:
Tom’s Restaurant
782 Washington Ave, Brooklyn,
NY 11238
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NY’s first and longest
running LGBT
storytelling series
giving voice to our
collective queer
experience
Friday, June 12
FREE EVENT
Film
FREE EVENT
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ENTERTAINMENT STAGES
Aaron Paul
London born, Brooklyn
based singer and songwriter, Aaron Paul has returned bigger and stronger
than ever with his 1st solo
album after leaving Worlds
Apart teen boy pop group.World Apart had a unprecedented chart run of over 5 top 30 UK singles. As we fast-forward to 2015, Aaron Paul is
preparing for the international release of his new
single, "I Don't Care". "I Don't Care", is an up
tempo anthem of peace, understanding and acceptance amongst us all. The Sobel Promotions
promoted single will feature an extensive remix
package featuring a remix by re-known Producer/Remixer Julian Marsh (Dolly Parton, Boy
George, Shannon and Taylor Dayne).
Gruft. In early 2016 she will be releasing her
debut full-length album. Listen to her debut EP
and new single at https://soundcloud.com/bellsroar. You will be moved by her personal lyrics
and commanding vocal style.
Billy Winn
Billy Winn is a singer,
songwriter, recording artist, and performer
from
Washington
DC,
who has spent the past twenty-four months captivating audiences all across the East Coast and
United States Midwest. His live shows have been
described as exciting and energetic—as he combines fashion with his sexy dance routines and
electrifying presence—giving his audiences a
thrilling musical experience. Now with the stage
set, Billy is gearing up for the release of his next
single, while continuing to perform and gain widespread exposure. Billy describes his music as
“Electro/Pop with a sexy urban edge,” noting
artists like Prince, Aaliyah, and Janet Jackson as
some of his biggest influences.
Batala NYC
BatalaNYC is
New York City’s
home
grown
band! A Sambalanche of music
and dance, we are part of a larger global arts project called Batala.We are an Afro-Brazilian Percussion band playing the music typically heard in
Carnival in Salvador de Bahia, in North Eastern
Brazil. Owing our existence to Giba Gonçalves, a
drummer and composer from Salvador, Bahia,
Batala has spread internationally. There are many
Batala Bands around the world, but few are all
women! Our instruments are made in Salvador
de Bahia. We play Samba-reggae, and Baterias
playing this style of music typically consist of five
types of instruments:
Brett Gleason
Combining the intimacy of
a singer-songwriter with
the intensity of arena rock,
Brett Gleason is a piano
player from Brooklyn, NY
who also writes for the
Huffington Post. His self-titled record is both aggressive and vulnerable, abrasive yet beautiful
with an emphasis on his classical piano and literary background. Both an out gay artist and bipolar sufferer, Gleason knows what it’s like to live
a life of intensity outside the mainstream and his
music reflects this.
bell’s roar
bell's roar is the new solo
project from Bronx native
Sean Desiree. The tone of
the project is best described
by the source of its name
feminist writer bell hooks. It
began with just a guitar and a
voice. Over the years Sean
has
expanded
her
singer/songwriter roots by
fully taking advantage of her skills as a drummer,
bassist and ultimately a producer. She is working
on a remix album with guest producer Joshua
Electro Honey
ELECTROHONEY is the
nuclear fusion of New
York City’s nightlife entertainer, recording artist and
beauty queen Sir Honey
Davenport and music production duo the Beat Battalion. Their debut album
ELECTROHONEY has charted in independent
radio stations across the US. To celebrate the re-
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ENTERTAINMENT STAGES
lease of their self-titled album, the band produced
an off-broadway electro-rock musical, The Electric Highway. With a theatrical company of 24
talented singers and dancers, they performed the
production at XL NYC to rave reviews, "To call
this show high-energy would be an understatement. The audience took in a multi-media production that relied on live instruments,
background vocalists and an army of dancers and
actors in various states of expression along the
gender spectrum.”-Next Magazine
riving from Puerto Rican descent, Joshua was raised in the
Soundview section of the
South Bronx, a community
that would cultivate and nourish his desire in becoming a
singer/songwriter. “In the
summer of 2014 I decided to
take a trip to Los Angeles. I
found myself on the sands of Venice Beach for
some down time. Suddenly, I received a spiritual
message from the universe advising me to pursue
my future career—to fully hone my singing talents. Ironically, the message expressed that the
time was—now! That same night I performed at
a jazz lounge in North Hollywood, an experience
that offered major fuel to get the ball rolling on
my singing career. After returning to New York
from Los Angeles I wasted no time in making my
dreams come true.”
Gabriella Pizzolo
(Understudy Small Alison,
Christian, John). Flying high on
her return to Broadway: previously seen as Matilda in Matilda
the Musical. Regional: Les Miserables (Young Cosette), Ragtime (Little Girl), and Miracle on
34th St. (Susan Walker). Gratitude and love to: Dad, Mom, Gillian, Orlando
School of Dance, Fun Home family, Jim Carnahan,
and John Mara Jr.
Little Us
We are a band called Little
Us and are from Harwinton and Burlington Connecticut and we are all
high school students who
are very experienced musicians. We started on
March 15, 2012, and have performed at many
events. We play all original, rock and roll, with a
style similar to Scorpion, Journey, Boston, Def
Leppard, and White Snake.We have a very unique
style that is rare to find in the music industry
today. We have perfected their instruments, as
well as four part vocal harmonies.With a total of
28 original songs, we have the ability to entertain
for two and a half hours long. We have played
shows for up to 1200 people and are hoping we
can increase that number. Our performance is
very energetic and enjoyable for the audience and
every song has many aspects to hook the audience’s interest.
Gina Germaine
Miss Empire State Emeritus,
the legendary Gina Germaine
of Sally's Hideaway fame. The
blonde Venus herself!!! The
hips, the lips, the magic that is
Gina Germaine!
Janna Pelle
Janna Pelle is an alternativepop pianist originally from
Miami and now living in
Brooklyn. She’s been described as a cross between
Lady Gaga and Fiona Apple.
Janna recently released my
single, "CITY LIFE" and a music video for it. Her
previous albums, "Shameless Self-Promotion" and
"The Show Must Go On" can be heard at jannapelle.com/music. Feel free to check out my
#makeshiftpopstar music video series as well.
Ray Isaac
Ray Isaac is an independent Singer-Songwriter-DJ
who has shaped himself
into a brand that is
sought after by producers
and labels who admire his
intoxicating lyrics and his
Joshua Mateo
Born in the heart of New York City, Joshua Mateo
has always shared a passion for creative expression—found in the arts, science and a deep desire
to better understand the human condition. De-
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ENTERTAINMENT STAGES
insanely original performance style. Ray wrote the
new Bob Sinclar Single “Feel the Vibe” which is
officially released June 2015 worldwide. Ray
Isaac’s debut single “U Want or U Don’t” was released in June 2014. Ray’s music will be featured
in the new mega dance film ‘Dancin Its On’ written and directed by the original ‘West Side Story’
actor, David Winters. Ray also plays a small role
in the film as well as performing the theme song
and five of the featured tracks.The film will be released in cinemas in summer of 2015.
awarded "Best Performance" at the
Heritage of Pride
Fest, and they were
voted "Best Drag
Kings" by GO
magazine readers
in 2009 and 2010. In 2015, they were nominated
for the Brooklyn Nightlife Awards in the categories of "Best Performance Show" and "Hall of
Fame." Switch n' Play currently produces the
monthly drag and burlesque show "Staches &
Lashes" every fourth Saturday at Branded Saloon
in Prospect Heights. For more information find
them at www.switchnplay.com or on instagram:
@switchnplay."
Rios
Riios is a Singer-songwriter and Producer crafting moody Electronic
music in a genre described
as 'Dream Chill' and writing dark acoustic pop
songs. Riios is known for
his vocal harmonies, funky
and eclectic beats and catchy melodies that
works well with his fluidity throughout the
genres.
T McCrae
T McCrae in Bronx
New York to an
African
American
mother and an Antiguan, Immigrant father, he is the first
born and only son of
two children. Named
after the musician Tiran Porter of the extremely
popular and successful R&B group, The Doobie
Brothers, T McCrae was destined to be a music
entertainer. He is presently collaborating with
Dance music recording artist and producer Ifa
Halima Bumi on a single titled “Wide Open” set
to be released in January of 2014. T McCrae is
also in negotiations and talks for future projects
with a plethora of music industry heavy hitters.
Shirley House
Shirley House isn’t
just band: it’s a
community, a family.
Shirley House—DJ
Natural State (Gillian
Sandman), vocalist
(Sa)Moncé (Sam Smith), choreographers Omari
Tipton and Prentice Whitlow, dancers Grace Eucker and Jaqui Rice, plus a host of dancers, musicians, and engineers—work together to make
something bigger, more complicated, than just a
single track, a lone dance step. Shirley House is
an experience. Shirley House is a world. A blend
of voice, dance, and electronic music, Shirley
House is in no way traditional. Pop, House,World,
Soul...this is Shirley House.
Tyler Alyxander
Tyler Alyxander, the current Miss Brooklyn
Pride, has traveled extensively and brought
entertainment
and
laughter to many an audience. Whereas there
is a renaissance regarimale impersonation, it's
th "seasoned" entertainer that can bring it and bring it good! Tyler has
also won the titles of Miss Gay New Jersey 1990 as
well as Miss New York City FI 2003. Tyler's alter
ego, Bill Evertsen, has a Masters Degree in Social
Switch N Play
"Switch n' Play is a Brooklyn drag collective established in 2006. Queer in every sense of the
word, SnP spans the gender spectrum in life and
on stage.They have performed at Brooklyn Pride,
Manhattan Pride, Hot Rabbit, Coney Island Burlesque at the Beach, Murray Hill's Miss Lez Pageant, and IVY-Q 2013 & 2014. In 2008, SnP was
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To find directory on line go to:
http://comptroller.nyc.gov/help/lgbtq-directory/
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ENTERTAINMENT STAGES
2015 SPONSORS
Work from NYU and an MBA from AIU and is currently working on a PhD in Education from Walden
University. Keep updated with Tyler's antics and
performances by friending on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/tyler.alyxander!
Tym Moss
Tym Moss is a Singer,
Actor, Radio/TV Host
(Artists Exposed
w/Tym Moss), Songwriter, Producer, etc.
in TV, Radio, Film,
Cabaret, Music and
Theater. He is performing and producing
cabaret nights of the
music of Little House
On the Ferry on Sun
June 28 at West End Lounge at 107th and Broadway immediately following the NYC Pride Parade
in which they will be marching.
s
Kaz and Jean
Jean Wimberly
(right) and Kaz
Mitchell (left)
are a proud couple of 13 years.
Jean, is the Exe.
Director & Kaz,
the Director of
Circle of Voices
Inc. a non-profit Womyn of African Descent
and Womyn of Color organization that produces multi-cultural events of an artistic nature as nourishment for the human spirit.
Join them for their annual tribute “Digging
Up Da Sistah Roots 4 on July 17th, 2015. It
is a Tribute to LGBT Womyn Legends &
Icons of African Descent & their Allies, to
recognize the contributions proud LGBTQ
Womyn of African Descent & their Allies
who lived and celebrated their sexuality
from the 70’s and beyond. Sharing their herstory as they reflect on their many challenges, and how the LGBTQ community has
progressed. For more information about the
organization and its resources, visit:
www.circleofvoicesinc.org or see Facebook.
s
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Congratulates Brooklyn Pride on their 19th year
and congratulations to this year’s Grand Marshals
Farid Ali Lancheros, George Constantinou & Family
and Georgia Brooke Guinan – FDNY
Antique Automobile Association of Brooklyn is the proud provider of the antique
vehicles used in the Brooklyn Pride Parade.
http://clubs.hemmings.com/brooklyncarclub
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