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On Wednesday, May 16 at 8 pm, South Florida audiences have a chance to hear the raspy voice and poetic lyrics of rock star Melissa Etheridge in her Fearless Love tour. Etheridge is best known for chart-toppers such as “I Need to Wake Up,” “Come to My Window,” “I Want to Come Over,” “The Weakness in Me,” and “Angels Would Fall.” Her latest, Fearless Love, is her tenth studio album, the original title of which was Songs of Love and Fear. Fearless Love was inspired by her children and was produced by longtime friend John Shanks, who also produced Sheryl Crow and Michelle Branch.

Changes for a Rock Icon

Etheridge’s recent past has been marked by turning points. 2011 saw Etheridge, 50, receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the year before, she split from her wife of nine years, Tammy Lynn Michaels. In 2004, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and responded to her hair loss with trademark bravery, singing a cover of India Arie’s “I Am Not My Hair” while at the Grammy’s. In 2007, she performed at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Oslo, along with several other artists. Before that, she won two Grammy awards – one for 1989’s song “Ain’t It Heavy,” and one for “Come to My Window” off her groundbreaking 1993 album Yes I Am, which playfully hinted at questions then being asked about her sexual orientation. Etheridge is known for her confessional lyrics, classic-rock style, and passionate delivery. She is also a committed LGBT activist since her own public coming out in 1992 and often supports gay rights issues. In spite of her long history as an LGBT activist, she will appear at her very first Pride event in 2012. 

Green Activist

In the last several years, Etheridge has been involved in the environmental movement, most notably offering support to Al Gore and contributing the Academy-award winning song “I Need to Wake Up” to his documentary An Inconvenient Truth. Her website offers tips on green living. In 2006, she toured America and Canada using biodiesel and has a long track record of support for environmental and green issues.

If You Go

Melissa Etheridge will be at Hard Rock Live on May 16, 2012 at 8 pm. For more information, including ticket prices and availability, go here.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By rockzoom_de

South Florida natives often seem to be a little bit blase´ about all the beauty that surrounds us. Maybe we’re used to it. Some of us can’t imagine why the words “snow” and “plow” would ever need to be next to each other in a sentence, and if we’ve always called South Florida home, we can’t conceive of ever being more than forty minutes from the beach. The idea of people having to board planes to enjoy the beauty and serenity of our tropical state can be, admittedly, a little hard to grasp. But when people come from all over the world to visit South Florida’s beaches, there are many, many health and wellness benefits to be had.

Relaxation

Experts believe that listening to the sounds of the ocean can greatly decrease your stress levels. So, the next time you visit one of these beaches, take a moment to close your eyes and relax by hearing the lapping of the waves. Plus, the blue-green shades of the ocean will naturally allow you to relax, letting the stress of the day flow right into the sand.

Wellness

Ample chances for exercise surround South Florida beachgoers. Why not take a jog or walk on the sand? If you visit the famous Hollywood Boardwalk, you’ll be able to rent a bike or go roller blading along the 2.5-mile stretch of this paved promenade. (And people watching may not actually support physical wellness, but it could be considered a sport here.) Want a more spiritual side to your wellness? Consider taking a peaceful beachside yoga class and calm your mind while taking care of your body.

Beauty

If you’re a daytime beachgoer, take a moment to really notice the shifting colors of the Atlantic against the bright blue South Florida sky. However, there’s nothing more breathtaking than the fiery red and orange of a South Florida sunset to make you appreciate all that these beaches have to offer. The sunsets on Hollywood Beach or Fort Lauderdale beach (just a short ride from the Desoto) are truly awe-inspiring.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By epitomized1

Since the start of March, I’ve been on a quest to find the perfect juice recipe, thanks to my new obsession with juicing. Even some of my favorite farmer’s markets were getting a little bit pricy, so when a friend of mine tipped me off about Stiles Farmer’s Market in Pembroke Pines (209 North Hiatus Road) I went over to check it out.

I was delighted. As a Floridian, I’ve started to despair that truly fresh produce will always cost an arm and a leg. Whether I’m going to standard grocery stores or organic health food stores, even most farmers markets seem to cause me to dig a little deeper into my wallet then I’m comfortable. However, Stiles is amazing. It’s tucked away in the Home Depot shopping center on Hiatus just before Pines (if you’re coming from the North), and only a short drive from the Desoto.

Locally Grown

While there were several organic and locally grown veggies and fruits, the majority of their stock seemed to be locally grown, as opposed to organic and locally grown, even though there were a few organic veggies and fruits here and there. Even for those who eat strictly organic produce, Stiles is worth a drive.

Produce and Prices

My personal indicator of whether or not I’ll like a farmer’s market is the price of ginger. In traditional grocery stores, I’ve seen ginger as high as $4 a pound. At Stiles, you can load up a plastic bag with ginger and one pound is only $1. Plus, there were rosemary stalks as big as my forearm. Not to draw a tight comparison, but in traditional grocery stores, herbs may be a low price but they are rarely if ever this large or this fresh.

A Lot For a Little

The veggie glee continued. I purchased huge cucumbers as large as my forearm for a fraction of the cost elsewhere, about three for a dollar.By the time I finally left Stiles, I had a mountain of produce for a mere $25. If I’d gone to a high end organic store, I probably would have spent twice that on vegetables.

Homemade Bread

Plus, on the weekends, Stiles sells homemade bread. There are several different kinds of loaves, from olive to wheat, all at a very reasonable price. Bring cash if you plan on taking the bread home with you.

If You Go

This place is a gem if you’re looking for farmer’s markets with a wide range of produce at reasonable prices. Find them at 209 North Hiatus Road, Pembroke Pines, FL 33026 or call 954-437-4852.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By Strikkelise

Let your inner explorer out to play with these fun and local South Florida activities.

The Museum of Discovery and Science

Locals know the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Discovery and Science by the 52-foot-tall Great Gravity Clock, which stands in front of the museum. The Museum of Discovery and Science is home to many fantastic exhibits. True, while parts of the museum are geared to children, curious and young at heart adults will also enjoy the many things to see and experience, including the brand new EcoDiscovery Center, which features the Everglades Airboat Adventure and an otter exhibit. The Museum of Discovery and Science is also home to the biggest movie screen in South Florida, the Autonation Imax, a 300-seat, surround-sound theater with a screen that’s five stories high. For more information about the Museum of Discovery and Science, please go here. Adult admission is $13; Senior admission is $12; children from 2-12 are $11.

The Buehler Planetarium and Observatory

Tucked away on the Broward College main campus (formerly the Broward Community College main campus) in Davie, the Buehler Planetarium offers patrons a unique chance to gaze upon the night skies from one of the most advanced planetariums in South Florida. Experience the skies for free on observation nights, which are Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8 to 10 pm. The planetarium also offers a variety of shows, from musical shows to story time for kids. Most of the planetarium events are extremely affordable. To learn more about the Buehler Planetarium, go here or call 954-201-6681.

South Florida Amateur Astronomers’ Association at Markham Park

Every Saturday from dusk to midnight, the South Florida Amateur Astronomers’ Association opens Markham Park’s observatory for an evening of stargazing. Founded in 1965 and incorporated in Florida one year later, the SFAAA makes its home inside Markham Park in Sunrise. This free event is a perfect way to spend an evening. All are welcome and its perfect for the curious. For more information, call 954-384-0442 or visit the South Florida’s Amateur Astronomers’ Association here.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By osseous

Love is in the air. It’s time for hearts, flowers, and going green, gay-style. Here’s our guide to a romantic and green Valentine’s Day.

Nix the Big Trip…

Turn your Valentine’s Day celebration into a staycation of the best kind and explore the wonders of home – and each other. If you’re into bath time goodies, cozy up the bedroom with some eco-friendly goodies or soy candles.

…Or Find a Sustainable Resort

Our very own Desoto is a cozy, green, and very gay-friendly inn located on Hollywood Beach, mere miles from the thriving gay culture in Fort Lauderdale. Not sure where else to go? Check out the Keys for gems such as Pearl’s or The Banyan Resort, both of which are certified green lodgings.

Food

Open your big heart with some organic fruits and veggies for some homemade Valentine’s Day snacks. Try sprinkling some organic fruit with some all-natural, unsweetened cocoa powder and natural sugar. Want a lot more chocolate than that? Check out a nearby green foodstore for a host of organic or naturally sweetened gooey goodies.

E-Cards

Tired of adapting straight e-cards for your baby? Check out these adorable and free gay and lesbian e-cards from Twosome Gifts or go here. Send a romantic e-card while cutting down on the paper waste generated by traditional Valentine cards.

Getting Hitched?

Are you getting married? Having a commitment ceremony? Thinking about proposing to your honey for Valentine’s Day? Check out SoYou’reEnGAYged.com. This blog is one of my all-time favorites. It’s an open forum for photo albums and wedding plans for LGBT couples and straight allies. It also has some original green tips for your gay wedding and a great DIY section. If you’re planning a wedding and you and your honey like to travel, check out some of the great sustainable cruise options such as Sweet or check out Traveler’s Joy so that friends and family can help you create the honeymoon of your dreams, whether you want to build a national or an international trip.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By lynn.gardner

Looking for green ways to celebrate your relationship? Celebrate Valentine’s Day with these fun local tips.

Trains

Train travel is a greener option than car travel. Plus, there’s an inherent sort of romance to boarding a train bound for a nearby city. Amtrak has several South Florida stations (including stations in Miami, Hollywood, and Fort Lauderdale) in case you and your beloved want to travel while reducing your carbon footprint.

Parks

A little ways into Tree Tops Park off of Flamingo Road in South Florida is a small playground and a footbridge. Cross the foot bridge and you’ll find some picnic tables overlooking a lake. This spot is a beautiful place for a Valentine’s Day picnic. In the five minutes that I stood on the bridge, I watched a pair of ducks glide through the lake and even heard a loud splash as some fish jumped out of the water and then dove back in. Check out some of Broward’s parks to explore fun and green ways to be romantic.

Maximize Sunsets

South Florida has many wonderful and romantic places to watch the day come to a close. Any of South Florida’s parks – including my Tree Tops nook – would be a perfect choice for watching the mesmerizing golden-red of an early evening sunset. It’s only a short, two-minute walk from the front door of the Desoto Inn to Hollywood Beach, and the ocean is so close that you can watch the sunset just from standing on Desoto Street. Hollywood Beach is fairly intimate, a natural romantic getaway. Closer than the Keys, this section of Hollywood Beach can give you all the intimacy of Key West without putting all the extra mileage on your car.

Get Raw

If you’ve wondered about raw food and thought, “I can’t eat raw food! It tastes like garden clippings,” then think again. I defy you not to get addicted to the nearby wonder of The Green Wave Café. For couples looking for a casual green restaurant, you can’t go wrong. Located on Broward Boulevard in Plantation, proprietor Raoul runs the Green Wave with a mixture of charm and intelligence. He and the staff will answer any questions you have about raw food and they’ll go easy on you if it’s your first time. The cafe’s laid-back diner atmosphere brings to mind a green version of Cheers (where everybody knows your vegan habits) and it’s a wonderful casual place to take a date.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By joshDubya

This past weekend, I went to Hollywood Beach, right near the Desoto. I almost never go to the beach, but all my work was done and it was time to play. I decided to make the nearby Hollywood Beach the setting for my solo adventure. I can’t remember when I’ve had so much green fun, and right in my own backyard! Looking to have some ecofriendly fun? Hit the beach!

Green Lifestyle

Hollywood Beach supports a green lifestyle. From the green and comfortable Desoto Inn to the electricity saving lights that shine over the Broadwalk, Hollywood Beach supports an eco-conscious lifestyle.

The Turtle Café

Turtle Café borders Keating Beach (a part of North Hollywood Beach Park, located just at the end of Sheridan Street) and is a great place to sit and people watch. (The burgers aren’t bad either.) In front of the aptly named Turtle Café is a protected turtle preserve. 90% of sea turtle nesting happens right here in Florida, so I had fun watching some adorable baby turtles.

The Broadwalk

The Broadwalk is a 2.5 mile promenade of shops, restaurants, and hotels on the west side, and of course, the Atlantic ocean on the east side. First built in 1925, Broadwalk renovations were completed in 2007, and in 2010 the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk was named one of best broadwalks in America by Travel and Leisure editor Nilou Motamed, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a wonderful place to people-watch, soak in the cool ocean breezes, rent a bike for two, or simply wander around with a backpack full of green snacks to munch on. The Broadwalk is the perfect place for a beautiful stroll and is a great place to take a break from busy weekdays.

Green Yummies

Don’t forget a handy selection of green snacks for your beach afternoon. Trail mix, organic fruit, or raisins are perfect light snacks for a day of beach fun. Be sure to take a reusable water bottle with you – temperatures can soar, even in our so-called winter. If you’re there on a Sunday between 9 am and 5:31 pm, stop by Josh’s Organic Market (located on the Broadwalk and Harrison Street, by the Ramada Hotel) for a smoothie or some fresh produce for the week. Josh is something of a local treasure; his reasonably priced market is practically legendary among veggie lovers in South Florida.

From the crystal-clear ocean to the golden-red sunsets, Hollywood Beach is a laid-back, eco-friendly, and relaxing place to spend your weekend.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By Fabio – Miami

I’ve always been impressed by women who traveled solo or with small groups. A few years ago, I had the chance to do some international travel to Southeast Asia and it was an amazing experience. However, women traveling solo should be aware of basic guidelines.

Know Your Area

If you’re traveling abroad, make sure that you’re dressed appropriately to the country you’re traveling in. In some areas of the world, wearing a long skirt or another item that covers your body is preferable. Long shawls can come in handy as everything from a head covering to even a makeshift blanket on long flights.

Smart Money

Going green often means being aware of financial issues. When traveling try to keep small and large bills separate. Consider an under-the-clothes money belt or divide your money on your person, putting some cash in your socks or even your bra, in lieu of carrying in your purse. That way, if you’re the victim of a purse-snatching, you won’t be left high and dry.

Surroundings

Green or alternative travelers are often encouraged to get to know other travelers. Chatting with others on the road can be informative and fun. But for women traveling alone, be mindful of surroundings. Look and act confident. When boarding a train or bus, try to stand next to other women or young families to ensure safety.

What to Leave At Home

Consider leaving valuables at home. Make sure that a trusted friend has a complete copy of your itinerary, a color copy of your passport, and your flight plans.

SmartPhone Smarts

Thanks to Smartphones, we have the ability to constantly document our surroundings. Smartphones are handy for taking photos, finding your way, and checking in with folks back home or members of your travel group.

Intuition

Many women report sensing that something is “off” before they are harassed or robbed. If something about your environment (or your interaction with a particular person) is making your stomach twinge, trust your hunches and find a safe way out of the situation.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo by garryknight

You can rest assured that if South Florida is your destination in December, snowstorms will not ruin your vacation. You can reinvent the usual white, chilly Christmas with the white sunny beaches where you can  make “snow” angels in the sand.

The holidays in Florida are colorful and charming.  The beach community can make a Christmas tree out of tall, majestic palm tree or a pink flamingo. The holiday lights sparkle in the distance as you take a winter swim or just walk in the nippy evening along the town just to enjoy the joyful, festive atmosphere, with coastline stretching in the distance.

In Fort Lauderdale and Miami alike, you can warm your heart by making sure to take in one of the following South Florida annual pastimes:

Santa’s Enchanted Forest

If you want to see Christmas done gitchy style, this is the place. Home to South Florida’s tallest Christmas tree, Santa’s Enchanted Forest’s millions of lights and hundreds of holiday displays. It’s bright, loud and the decorations may have seen one too many seasons but its open thru Jan 8 from 5 pm – midnight each day, making it a dependable blast of holiday spirit any night of the week. Visitors can enjoy the festive Christmas music, and carnival foods and rides and plenty of live entertainment, Miami style.

Christmas on the Beach

This religious variety show extravaganza includes bands, vocalists, dancers and mime artists! Children can meet Grinchy, sing along Christmas carols, and dance to the unique sound of a steel drum band. It takes place at the Hollywood Beach Theater located on Johnston Street and Broadwalk , Hollywood.  For more information, call 954-921-3404.

Christmas on Las Olas

Walk along Las Olas Boulevard and feel the snow melt on your bare shoulders.  Snow is the attraction of this free annual Christmas tradition,
making the highlighted events sledding down a mountain and skating in the artificial ice rink at JM Lexus on the Riverside Lawn.  Take in some holiday movies and visit Santa. As you stroll, sing along with the holiday songs sung by local choirs, the Archbishop McCarthy Jazz Band and the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus. You will find Las Olas Boulevard decked out with wonderful seasonal lights and find all the wonderful fashionable shops open late on Tuesday from 5 to 10 p.m. for this holiday celebration.

Cirque Dreams: Holidaze

Catch a holiday show in Fort Lauderdale complete with thrilling performances from Florida’s version of Cirque Du Soleil, with just as much
dazzling talent. Be mesmerized by the high wire acts, juggling and balancing acts in this wonderful performance with a holiday theme.

Pines Ice Arena

You may have left your cold state, but you know you miss the ice-skating! Rent your skates at this Fort Lauderdale old time ice rink and twirl away on the ice, enjoying some holiday music. Warm up with delicious hot chocolate and watch as others take a turn on the ice. Very family friendly and inexpensive- not a bad way to spend an afternoon.

By Nuria Almeida

The Riverwalk is located in Fort Lauderdale, in the downtown historic district. It is a 1.5 mile long brick-lined walkway along the north bank of the New River. Many of the city‘s historical landmarks can be seen along the way.  The path starts near the oldest surviving structure in the city, the lovely pine and oak house known as Stranahan House. This gorgeous stretch of river front has been preserved by the city of Fort Lauderdale, ensuring the quaint park, which houses some interesting nautical ‘art’, is extremely clean and safe, and the outlining buildings, including the renowned Florida Grand Opera House, are showcased.

Take this pleasant stroll along one of the rivers of a network of canals known as the Venice of America, in the warm Florida sunshine, and enjoy a breeze and the view of the marina. It is truly one of the most romantic walks you will take along Florida’s most enchanting mile. The Riverwalk connects two main streets that run through the district- Las Olas Boulevard and Himmarshee Street. Along these streets, amidst lush tropical landscaping and wide, tree lined walkways link downtown Fort Lauderdale attractions, including the Broward Center for Performing Arts, the Museum of Discovery and Science, Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art and the Fort Lauderdale Film Festival- all within walking distance of one another.

If yachts and mansions float your boat, check out the year-around sightseeing cruise departing three times daily from the New River Docks. The cruise takes you along the Intracoastal Waterway and into Port Everglades, to enjoy the sights of large mansions, celebrity homes in Millionaires Row and massive yachts on the water. Visitors can also see some of the world’s largest cruise ships while in a smooth gliding tour cruise.

Treat yourself and loved ones to a scrumptious meal in one of the many restaurants right on the river or  hop on a water taxi and experience the marina’s fisheries across the way.  You can even become part of the Riverwalk landmark by purchasing a personalized, engraved signature brick.

The Riverwalk is the perfect place to unwind, fall in love or just have a truly unique experience. Even waiting for the various draw bridges along the way to be raised and lowered is a marvel. It is enjoyable anytime of the year, however if you are a music enthusiast, visit in February and dance to the Riverwalk Blues & Music Festival outdoor concerts.

By Nuria Almeida

Photo by Christopher Gosselin