Playing Politics
With mid-terms more than a year away, it’s hard to believe election fundraising is in full swing. There are a couple highly coveted offices that have locals already pulling out their checkbooks—even in this economy. On Wednesday, June 10, Jack Lord and Adam Hunter played host to Democratic gubernatorial frontrunner Alex Sink in their beautiful condominium at The Sanctuary. Ted Maines, Jeff Miller and John Ruffier were also on a host committee that reportedly collected more than $20,000 for the campaign. Sink described saving taxpayers millions by consolidating call centers as the state’s Chief Financial Officer. “They told me the plan could be rolled out in four years,” she recalled. “I looked at them and said, ‘How about four months!’ But that’s the mentality we’re dealing with and have to overcome.” Meanwhile, an LGBT-heavy fundraising reception for Orange County Mayor candidate Linda Stewart will take place June 26 at 101 S. Eola. Among the host committee of local Democratic notables: Carol Bartsch, Doug Head and Randy Stephens.
Restaurant Rebirth
Within weeks after it was announced that Graze and Sanctuary Diner had shut down, it appears that the third restaurant in the Sanctuary condominium tower, the Beacon, has also closed. But it’s not all bad news for LGBTs who favored all three stylish South Eola restaurants. According to former Orlando Sentinel restaurant critic Scott Joseph’s blog, the Beacon will reopen in August with a more moderate price-point and atmosphere. And the same owners are developing a Mexican restaurant and tequila bar across the street, at 101 S. Eola. Sanctuary developer Steve Kodsi shared that there has been “tremendous interest” in his two vacant state-of-the-art restaurant spaces.
Tidbits
Drag entertainer Leigh Shannon will be included in a new book due out in October, 100 Most Influential Gay Entertainers * The Underground Orlando has a new drink made of rum, sugar, lime juice and crushed blueberries. According to owner Benjamin Saenz, the resulting purple color made him think of this publication, hence the “Watermark Mojito.” Drop in and order one.
