Hunters will host the book release party for “Last Call South Florida: 1,001 LGBTQ-Friendly Taverns, Hangouts & Haunts” on Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 6-8 p.m.
Vinny will be passing out, Hunters’ signature Cold Brew Martini. If I may be allowed to toot my own horn a bit, “Last Call South Florida,” which I wrote with South Florida gay historian Fred Fejes, is a combination encyclopedia/coffee table book about the history of South Florida’s LGBTQ bars since Prohibition from Palm Beach to Key West.
It has hundreds of old bar ads and photos, write-ups on 1,001 bars, and interviews with the people who were on both sides of the bar. From the investors and entrepreneurs, to the entertainers, bartenders, go-go boys, drag performers, and “bar celebrities,” to the customers who came to escape their everyday lives, be entertained, be among others like themselves, and along the way, became a community.
A limited number of copies will be available for purchase ($40 hardcover). Fred and I will give a little talk, there will be a slide show of old bar ads, and we’ll be available to sign the copies purchased that evening. The event is a perfect way to celebrate Gay & Lesbian History Month.
CULTURE & COCKTAILS
Cheers to 20 years! The Cultural Council is proud to present three “Culture & Cocktails” conversations in 2025 featuring personalities from the world of entertainment at The Ben in downtown West Palm Beach. On Jan. 6, the series kicks off with a chat with Emmy & Tony Award winning comedy writer Alan Zweibel. An original “Saturday Night Live” writer, Alan Zweibel has won five Emmy Awards for his work in television, which also includes “It’s Garry Shandling’s Show,” “The Late Show with David Letterman,” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” On Feb. 24, the focus shifts to performers as Andrew Kato, Maltz Jupiter Theatre’s Producing Artistic Director dishes with divas Elizabeth Dimon, Angie Radosh, and Karen Stephens, all longtime members of the South Florida theatre community. April 14 will close out the season with Rob Russell, Avery Sommers, and special guests sharing stories and entertaining. Admission to each one session is $125 per person, $165 for VIP Seating and a season pass to all three events is $300 per person, $450 for VIP seating. All proceeds support the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s mission to champion, engage, and grow the arts in Palm Beach County. For more information, visit palmbeachculture.com.
CHIC & UNIQUE
The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida celebrates its 15th anniversary with The Chic & Unique Ball: Crystal Opulence Unleashed. This spectacular crystal-themed gala fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 2 at The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, promises to be a night of glittering elegance, luxury, and extravagant fun not to be missed! The main event, starting at 7 p.m., features a robust live and silent auction and entertainment. A VIP reception, starting at 6 p.m., offers pre-and post-concert receptions, prime seating, an open bar, exclusive live performances, private prize drawings, and special event swag. General admission includes access to the main event, food, live and silent auctions, a post-event dance party with a live band, and special surprises throughout the night. Guests are encouraged to unleash their most extravagant attire for an evening of crystal opulence.
General admission is $200, VIP tickets are $500, and tables are available for $2,000. Tickets are available at gmcsf.givesmart.com. This event will benefit the chorus’ operations, concert programming, outreach initiatives, and scholarships.
