MichaelDuBour.com: Provincetown Blog

Provincetown News for July 2009

2009-07-17T20:38:00.000-07:00

This month's episode features an update of the sewer back up, events and how Provincetown did over the 4th of July weekend. Varla Jean, Miss Richfield, Dina Martina and more...also, other summer fun in Provincetown.

Provincetown News Bullets

2009-07-10T09:18:00.000-07:00

Tourism is down in Provincetown. Over the Fourth of July Weekend, all sectors of business reported weak performance. Retail, restaurant, transportation (ferry, bus and plane), entertainment, art galleries and hotels overwhelmingly concur that the combination of the poor economy and rainy weather in June has impacted Provincetown.
The town sewer backed up over the Fourth of July weekend and created a mess along the entire length of Commercial Street. Homes and businesses were awash in raw sewage. It even seeped out of manhole covers. Beaches were closed, businesses impacted and some renters had to switch their accommodations at the expense of the owners. There has been a huge loss in revenue due to this incident. It is reported that a cell phone flushed down the toilet in the East end triggered a valve failure which caused the system to back up. The town has disinfected the streets with bleach.
14 arrests were made over the 4th of July weekend. 12 males and two females were arrested for disorderly conduct and assaulting an office. One incident involved a knife attack in the Stop and Shop parking lot.
The Secret Garden Tour will take place this weekend from 10AM-3PM. The tour will guide walkers to 12 secret gardens in Provincetown. The cost is $30.

For questions please email Michael.dubour@century21.com

The Fourth in Provincetown to go off with a Bang!

2009-07-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a combination of 124 businesses and individuals, the Independence Day pyrotechnics spectacular, will shoot off over the bay Saturday night.

Through a fundraising effort led by Rick Murray, co-owner of The Crown and Anchor Inn, close to $46,350, the cost of the fireworks was raised to pay for the display. In addition to the contributions from donors, the Visitor Services Board gave $5,000. Stop and Shop will provide food to feed the extra police officers needed to help keep order in the crowd that can blossom to over 50,000 sparkler gawkers.

The only thing that will stop the show is rain or fog. This was the case a few years ago when a rain storm threatened to cancel the celebration. The show started a few minutes before heavy rains and clouds moved in. The grand finale exploded through thick clouds giving the viewers an interesting perspective.

Have fun this weekend and please refer to last week’s entry or July’s video news (link on home page of http://www.mikedubour.com) for a list of events and parties.

Thanks for reading and email me at michael.dubour@century21.com if you have any questions.

The Fourth of July is here

2009-06-25T13:02:00.000-07:00

The Fourth of July is here! This week I provide a list of events for you to choose from in Provincetown for the festive weekend. In addition, I’ve included all events in June and July including The Portuguese Festival which starts today.
FOURTH OF JULY

The parade starts down Commercial Street around noon. You can get a pretty good view from almost anywhere along the parade route.

Fireworks start over the bay at dusk. The display is pretty good for our little seaside town so I hope you can make it.

The Art House Theatre

Varla Jean Merman and the Mushroomheads, Tuesday thru Friday at 8PM.. a special Varla film festival starts at 7:30 PM
Miss Richfield is Tuesday through Sunday at 10PM
Blanche Survives Katrina… Thursday-Sunday 8:30 PM
Suzanne Whang… Wednesday through Sunday 7PM, no show on the 4th.

The UU Meetinghouse

Hedda Lettuce with Eat Me at 10PM all weekend long
Mimi Gonzalez starts July 5th at 8:30 PM

The Crown and Anchor

Kate Clinton Thursday through Saturday at 7PM
Illusions Drag Spectacular is all weekend at 7:30 pm
Dina Martina is whacked all weekend at 9PM
Thirsty Burlington performs all weekend at 10:30 PM
Independence Day Dance Friday and Saturday at 9PM
On Tuesday, catch Ryan Landry’s Willie Wanker and the Hershey Highway.

The Boatslip

Special extended Tea Dance from 4-11PM on Saturday. This is also a great spot to watch the fireworks.

The Post Office Cabaret

James
Jackie Beat
Naked Boys Singing

The Vixen and AHOUSE

Dancing all weekend

David Flower’s features Summer Camp

Pier Dance Saturday from 3-8PM
Hangar Party at the airport Sunday from 8PM-1AM
Sunset cruise Monday 5-9PM

Remember to check your ferry or flight times and reserve your ticket if you haven’t yet. Allow for heavy traffic if you are driving here. For more information check mikedubour.com. Other events for the remainder of June and July include:

June 25-28th The Portuguese Festival and Blessing of the Fleet. This includes dancing, singing and food. There is also a parade!

The Art House

Two Boys in a Bed on a Cold Winter’s Night, weekends in June
ANT June 26-28th
Jen Kober June 29-30th

July 11th there will be an auction to raise money to help renovate the library

July 11-18 is Bear Week

July 12th is the secret garden tour

June 20th its the 10K Dog Run Dog owner and pooch run

July 22-26 is Girl Splash

Please come to Provincetown and enjoy yourselves. Summer is fleeting. Email me at Michael.dubour@century21.com for more information.

Provincetown News for June 2009

2009-06-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

Provincetown News Update

2009-06-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

The summer rental season is upon us and so is a scam. If you are seeking to rent a vacation home here on the Cape, make sure you are renting directly from the owner or realtor representing the owner. Criminals looking to make quick cash have advertised homes for rent on Craigslist that they do not own. There are no reported victims as of yet. However, this could potentially cost vacationers thousands of dollars if they fall for it. Always try and validate the owner’s name by visiting the town website and checking the Assessor’s database.

A newly renovated town hall isn’t the only jewel Provincetown is seeing unfold. Recent work has uncovered numerous items from the past. A beer can from the 1950’s, a copy of a 1937 Cape Cod Colonial newspaper which headlined a story on Adolph Hitler’s actions and four signatures from workers who signed their names in the belfry in 1886.

The historic town hall which was built 123 years ago, is undergoing massive renovations after being deemed unsafe last year.

As a side note, there was an advertisement for a four bedroom summer cottage in the 1937 newspaper. The selling price…$2500.

The off road beach access to Race Point Beach South was temporarily closed due to the hatching of Plover chicks. Expected closures will also take place as eggs hatch along other ORV routes to Race Point Beach. If you use these roads, you may be able to use Race Point North roads most of the summer as nesting activity in this area is very minimal.

Piping plovers are on the endangered species list and the nests are monitored daily by the National Parks Service biologist. Once the chicks leave the nest, the roads are re-opened.

If there are unexpected closings, permit holders will be allowed to park for free at Herring Cove Beach, Race Point Beach and Head of the Meadow Beach. Recreational vehicles that are self contained will find parking accommodations at Race Point Beach and The Province Lands Visitor Center.

Provincetown residents have consistently used more water than the town’s allotted daily 850,000 gallons. This over usage may cause the state to enforce a water ration on the town.

Any rations would be a detriment to the hospitality industry which is a cornerstone of the economy. It will also impact homeowners and businesses seeking to expand their water capacity for additions or development. Provincetown gets its water from three wells in Truro. Alternative well fields are being sought out as a back-up water supply.

Remember the old saying… water is a precious resource here in Provincetown, please use what you need and waste none.

Austin Knight, a Provincetown Selectmen, broke his arm this past Tuesday as he was working on a home in the center of town. He was taken to Cape Cod hospital and is doing ok.

The class of 2009, the smallest graduating class in the state, marched through light rain to shake hands and grab diplomas last Friday. The ceremony took place at The Pilgrim Monument where the 23 graduates and over 400 attendees were sheltered under a large tent. The commencement address was delivered by State Representative Sarah Peake. Good luck to all graduates.

Thanks for reading and if you have any ideas, please email me at michael.dubour@century21.com.

Finback Whale on Provincetown Beach

2009-06-04T12:32:00.000-07:00

This week, I posted pictures of the Finback Whale which washed ashore on Herring Cove Beach in Provincetown. Click over to michaeldubour.com to check them out

A New Season Begins

2009-05-29T17:31:00.000-07:00

The Memorial Day holiday in Provincetown proved to be a promising kick off to the summer season.

Business owners reported that the weather, although a bit gloomy at times, cooperated to make conditions ideal for tourists.

Retail shop and restaurant owners said that this was a very busy holiday weekend. Although the economy is slow, visitors seem tired of bad news. Provincetown provided a breath of fresh air and a chance to get away from the negative media. Most purchases were small, like t-shirts, ice cream cones and bric-a-brac items. But, folks were buying nonetheless.

Even though the holiday is over, the past week was also very busy. The true test of the summer economy will start July 1st with Independence Day holiday. Last year, restaurants, retail shops and entertainment did very well, while galleries struggled. Some galleries have been replaced with retail shops so it will be interesting to see how the newcomers fare.

Send an email to Michael.dubour@century21.com or call 508-789-1107 if you have any questions or to contribute. Thanks for reading and come back next Friday. Have a happy summer.

Provincetown News for May 2009

2009-05-22T06:03:00.000-07:00

This month, you'll see town election results, new businesses that will open this season, a quick tour of The Pilgrim Monument and Memorial Day events.

Spring in Provincetown

2009-05-08T11:14:00.000-07:00

Ballot Questions Pass

Provincetown voters approved five ballot questions in this week’s election.

Property taxes will increase in order to fund the Recreation Department, the town’s sidewalks and roads will be repaired, storm drains will be maintained, a new ladder truck will be purchased and a new street sweeper will be purchased.

New Businesses Come to Provincetown

Post “rented” signs over the majority of vacant retail space on Commercial Street. What could have potentially been a disastrous look for Provincetown this summer has been averted. An unusually large number of retail spaces have been rented by new businesses in spite of economic times.

Here’s a list of newcomers to support this year.

Wabi Dumplings is opening a take out food service only at 206 Commercial Street. This eatery will be owned by the chef from Victor’s in the West End, but no need to worry, he will not be quitting his night job.

The Caribbean Corner will open at 269 Commercial Street, directly across from town hall. There will be a full liquor license. This restaurant is actually moving from a smaller location, all meals are cooked to order. The food is absolutely delicious, but, put on your patience cap as the preparation takes time.

Townsend Lobster will open in the former Clem and Ursie’s building on Shank Painter Road.

The Brass Key will open its “Shipwreck Lounge” to the public.

The former Commons Guest House Restaurant and Level has a new owner. This summer the businesses will be called The Waterford.

New galleries include the J. Lucas Gallery at 437 Commercial Street, Julie Heller East at 465 Commercial Street, Portraits by Storm Cloud at 346 Commercial Street.

Numerous artists have rented the sheds on MacMillan Pier for the season as well. Look for watercolor paintings, drawings and knitting shops.

Garden Renovations, a nursery, has opened on the corner of Nelson Avenue and Race Point Roads.

Melt will open at 199 Commercial Street. This store will offer facial creams and other skin care products.

Klymaxx Unlimited will open at 207 Commercial Street and sell skin care products, cosmetics and fragrance.

A jewelry store will be opening at 280 Commercial Street. The name has not been announced.

Recycled Retriever, a pet supply store specializing in green products, will open at 322 Commercial Street. Bring your pets on May 14th from 5-8PM for an opening party.

Yates and Kennedy will be opening a retail store selling t-shirts, home furnishings and gifts at 368 Commercial Street.

We wish all these businesses good luck in their first summer. Hopefully, day trippers and vacationers who want to save money and stay local, will come here and support our economy. Nudge and hint Bostonians, New Yorkers and folks from Providence.

Thanks for reading. I’ll be on vacation next week, but will supply some photos for you to enjoy so come back. In the meantime, send me an email if you have questions or comments mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Ongoings in Provincetown

2009-05-01T06:06:00.000-07:00

Have you been to the breakwater in Provincetown? This is at the rotary and just next to The Provincetown Inn. Next year at this time, you may be seeing newly built homes set on the 3.5 acre property formerly owned by the Murchison family. The gate house will be a new home, the main house will be tastefully renovated and five newly constructed homes will appear. The town has granted the owner permission to develop the land. Town officials feel the owner, Clifford Schorer, has been more than helpful throughout the process.

Residents will vote on five ballot questions in next week’s annual election on May 5th. The outcome will determine whether the town will fund The Recreation Department, if the town will purchase a $628,000 fire truck, $125,000 for a street sweeper and $50,000 on street repair/sidewalk maintenance. Town moderator Irene Rabinowitz and Selectman David Bedard are running unopposed but will appear on the ballot. The polls are located at The Veterans Elementary School gym and open 7AM until 7PM.

The Outer Cape Choral will hold “A Concert for Peace” at the UU Meeting House on May 8th and 9th at 7PM. The concert includes Franz Joseph Haydn’s “Mass in the Time of War.” The concert is free both nights.

Provincetown News for April 2009

2009-04-24T11:08:00.000-07:00

This month we cover the annual town meeting, parking permits, Route Six lane reduction project, summer entertainment line up and more.

The Latest Scoop

2009-04-17T12:09:00.000-07:00

The boats are coming back to the bay, stores are starting to open and weekend tourists are stretching their winter legs on Commercial Street. Nothing screams “the season has begun!” like the opening of Cafe Heaven, Spiritus Pizza and The Red Inn.

Provincetown business owners report that there is no shortage of employees looking for work this summer. Restaurants, guesthouses and retail shops have fully staffed all positions. They are not experiencing the shortage of workers encountered last year due to the issues with the H2B visa program. The jobs are being filled by a mixture of international students and Americans laid off looking for work. In some cases, family members are working to help support businesses in order to cut costs.

The economy is a big concern for local businesses this summer as the recession continues. Due to the largest national unemployment rate in 26 years, there is anxiety on Commercial Street about who will be coming here to spend money. Three separate guesthouse owners told me that previous customers are calling and looking for work. The customers who were previously six figure salaried professionals are offering their services to clean rooms, wait tables or work reservations.

Townsend Lobster and Seafood has purchased the building formerly occupied by Clem and Ursie’s restaurant on Shank Painter Road in Provincetown. Mac’s Seafood of Wellfeet will be part owner of the property; however the business will operate exclusively as Townsend Lobster. There are no details on the selling price of the property other than that it was sold for significantly less than the $2.5 million listed price. Townsend Lobster which is located on Fisherman’s Wharf will be open for business on June 15th.

Items recovered from an April 2007 jewelry store robbery was returned to the store’s owner. Thirty one pairs of earrings, eight necklaces, fifty seven rings and two gold pendants are back in the store’s inventory. The three thieves were apprehended by police soon after the crime and are still in jail.

The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod is a co-sponsor in a health forum being held at The Provincetown Theatre on May 8th at 2PM. The guest speaker will be John Auerbach the Commissioner of Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Issues to be discussed include program changes for health organizations and funding. The event is free and open to the public.

Next week, I’ll check in with The Vixen, Post Office, Art House and Crown and Anchor to see what’s on the menu for entertainment this year.

Thanks for reading and check back next week. This blog is updated every Friday. If you have questions send me an email mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Town Meeting Results

2009-04-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

The Provincetown annual town meeting took place Monday, April 6th at the Veterans Elementary School. There were over 40 articles on the agenda and the meeting adjourned Monday to be continued and finished Tuesday evening. 301 voters turned out for Tuesday’s meeting.

Residents approved some articles in the meeting that will essentially raise their taxes. These were limited to basically preserving jobs, purchasing needed equipment and repairs to roads and sidewalks.

All articles that passed were:

Fiscal year 2010 budget
A proposition 2 ½ override to continue funding the Recreation Department.
The purchase of:
- Street sweeper
- Fire Department ladder truck
Road and sidewalk maintenance
Drain maintenance
Greenhead fly control
$180,000 of Land Bank funds will be used to purchase 2.29 acres on Browne Street for a community garden.
Phase 3 sewer expansion
Create regional school committee
Floodplain bylaw
Changes to the bylaws in growth management
Community Preservation Acts
- $2 million to fund the second phase of the town hall renovation.
- Allocate $100,000 towards the $250,000 purchase of a small parcel of land as a park.
- $150,000 to renovate a 15 unit affordable rental project at 83 Shank Painter Road
- $800,000 to build 32 units of community housing at 35 Race Point Road

Voters rejected the following articles:

Automated parking meter purchase (this would adversely impact meter maid positions)
Marijuana policy (increase the fine from $100 to $300 if found in possession)
Eliminate term limits

The following items were postponed:

Change in medical benefits for retired town employees
1% real estate transfer tax when selling your property.
Mooring fees for Provincetown Public Pier Corp.

Thanks for reading and have a great weekend. I wish a Happy Easter to those who celebrate the holiday. Email me with any question mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Annual Town Meeting and Parking Stickers

2009-04-03T10:43:00.001-07:00

Get your town stickers if you live here or if you own property as a second homeowner. The parking meters have become active for the season. Effective April 1st, you must pay to park at the meters if you do not have a permit. Stickers cost $50 for residents, $90 for non-resident property owners and $250 for non resident stickers. Permits are free to seniors 59 years and older. You will now be ticketed if you do not have a sticker. 2008 stickers will be valid until April 15th.

To get a permit, you must go to the police station Monday-Friday 8AM-3PM. The office is closed for lunch 12:30-1PM. You must present a valid driver’s license and vehicle registration. All outstanding parking tickets must be paid in order for you to get a sticker.

If you are not in town and need your permit mailed, send a check, copy of your license and registration to:

Provincetown Parking Department
26 Shank Painter Road
Provincetown, MA 02657

Make checks payable to “The Town of Provincetown.”

Finally, town meeting is fast approaching. This Monday, April 6th at 6 PM, voters will have lots to decide. The meeting will be held at The Veterans Elementary School. To see a complete list of agenda items click here.

Come back next week, thanks for reading and play it safe. Email me questions at mike.dubour@verizon.net.

A Short Entry This Week ...

2009-03-27T12:43:00.000-07:00

The end of the first quarter is approaching quickly. April is emerging from the fog and that means the start of prep season here in Provincetown. Prep season is defined as the two months leading up to Memorial Day, the official kick off of our season. During that time, stores, restaurants and galleries scramble to hire seasonal workers and stock inventory that they hope will sell.

Seasonal workers are now searching for their summer digs. In towns like Provincetown, they are competing with the vacationer. Of course, when it comes down to it, the accommodations for a seasonal worker are more comparable to steerage on the Titanic. Let’s just hope this ship doesn’t go down.

There is fear amongst some business owners that this summer may be much slower than usual due to the economy. However, three rental agencies that I spoke with have reported strong seasonal and weekly rental bookings in July and August. Guest house owners are reporting strong reservations for the summer as well. This will translate into cash on Commercial Street. The only week that is consistently down is 4th of July. This ultimate week for circuit boy fun is no longer an official circuit party and rentals have been impacted.

Well, as Varla practices her show and Dina Martina smears her makeup, save your pennies and bring them to town this year. Keep Ptown, your town for fun. If you haven’t rented your vacation getaway, ya better hurry...seriously. As the economy forces New York and Boston boys to vacation here, the best places are getting snatched up. If you are buying, however...the market belongs to you.

Remember, play it safe and send me an email if you have any questions, mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Provincetown Monthly News March 2009

2009-03-20T11:02:00.000-07:00

Late Winter News

2009-03-13T12:18:00.000-07:00

There seems to be a lot going on here this week.

A local fisherman has proposed to make an area at MacMillan Pier used as free tie-up for recreational boaters. There is 300 feet of space along the parking lot that can be used to house boats while their owners and guests spend money in restaurants and shops along Commercial Street. The cost to create the area is estimated at around $1700.

Provincetown School Superintendent Jessica Waugh will retire at the end of this school year. She started her career with the Provincetown school system as a reading teacher 29 years ago. She was promoted to Curriculum Coordinator, Professional Development Director and MCAS Coordinator in 2004. Waugh has also served as Principal since 2008. A search for a new superintendent and principal are underway.

Provincetown is still working to balance its municipal budget. The teacher’s union agreed to freeze wages and save the town roughly $81,000. This still leaves the town $79,000 in the red. Additional funds may be raised by freezing the salaries for department heads and union personnel. The Finance Committee is also working on closing the budget gap.

The annual town meeting for Provincetown will be held on Monday, April 6th at 6 pm.
Agenda items include the budget, town hall renovation, sewer expansion, town vehicle purchases including a fire truck and sweeper, new parking meters, zoning issues, the recent marijuana law and three animal control articles. Town Warrants are available for review prior to the meeting.

Three lots on Browne Street may become community gardens. The 2.29 acre site would be divided into 50 garden plots. The Land Bank would fund the purchase and fund the maintenance of the site. The gardens will be an article at the town meeting on April 6th and is being submitted by the Conservation Commission.

The renovations for town hall are on schedule. Besides a large amount of rot being discovered and removed, the project is on budget. In Early March, steel channels and supports arrived that will be installed to make the building sound. A heating and air conditioning unit is expected to be installed across Bradford Street behind the Bas Relief.

The town hall will also be painted its original color as part of the renovations. Paint samples were removed and analyzed by historic paint consultants. The trim will be a cream color, windows and doors a deep reddish blue and the building itself, sage.

If you are looking for things to do:

WOMR features “Winter Benefit Film Series” every Thursday at 7:30pm at The Schoolhouse.

Counter Productions at The Provincetown Theatre presents “The Effect on Gamma Rays on Man in the Moon Marigolds” through March 29th.

It’s “Sunday Salon” at The Provincetown Theatre hosted by John Thomas.
March 29th and April 12th at 2PM

Thanks for reading and check back next week for “Provincetown Monthly” video news. Play it safe and send me an email at mike.dubour@verizon.net if you have any questions.

Provincetown Update

2009-03-07T11:49:00.001-08:00

Things to do in mid-March

In consideration of WOMR’s 27th birthday, The Schoolhouse Gallery, located in the same building as the radio station, is hosting a party March 20th from 6-8 PM. Artists are encouraged to submit artwork that is valued between $100-$1,000. 20% of all work sold will benefit WOMR. Visit www.womr.org for more details.

The Norman Mailer Writers Colony will open May 18th. Located in the late author’s Provincetown home, aspiring writers will be offered fellowships to attend special workshops and programs on location. Application deadline is March 20th. Visit www.nmwcolony.org for more information.

The Fine Arts Work Center will feature paintings by artist Jason Mones through March 11th.

Cape End Inn features free movie nights. Movies are relatively new as they are not released to video, but no longer in theaters. Start time is 7 PM Monday-Thursday and 8 PM Friday-Sunday, free popcorn, full bar and pub fare.

Winter Reading Series at The Provincetown Theatre. Various material. $5 donation.

Monday nights at The Mews is open mic. Starting at 8PM.

Late Winter Report

2009-02-26T06:01:00.000-08:00

March is right around the corner and that means spring is practically here.

The budget issue that Provincetown has been facing is now a little smaller. The Visitor Services Board will contribute $77,000 to the town, thus closing the overall budget deficit to $150,000. The rest of the cuts are expected to come from the School Department.

The Cape Cod Year Rounder’s Festival will not be held again until repairs to town hall are complete. This event is usually held the second Saturday in March and features arts, crafts, museums and the town’s various organizations. Renovations are expected to take up to two years.

The sewer system may be extended to the Beach Point area. Based on a possible environmental benefit, the State Department of Environmental Protection and the Provincetown Health Agent have urged the town to get a sense of residents’ interest in a hook up. The extension of the sewer system to this far East End of Provincetown will also generate revenue for the town.

An increase in water bills for Provincetown homeowners is on tap. Selectmen and the Water and Sewer Board voted a 40% hike for the lowest water users and a 2% jump for large commercial properties. The proposed increase will be discussed at a public hearing on March 12th.

Provincetown’s finest now has a new sergeant. Officer Thomas Steele was promoted after serving eight years on the force. Steele will replace Sergeant Phil Suchecki who has retired.

There is a strong chance that Provincetown will be the recipient of a $2 million grant which it will use to repave Commercial Street. The Board of Selectmen voted to hire and engineering firm to develop applications. The cost of this process is just over $16,000. The grant will be awarded in July. If Provincetown does receive the money, a test strip will be repaved this fall and main construction will start in 2011.

Trash collection in Provincetown may soon be curbed. Last month the Board of Selectmen put forth the idea that trash collection should be eliminated. Voters, however, overwhelmingly refused to change the current trash collection procedure last year.

A group of Eighth graders at Provincetown High School managed to raise over $3,000 to buy a new ladder fire truck for the town. Although this falls far short of the needed funds to purchase a new vehicle, the students planned and executed fundraising efforts themselves.

That’s it for this week. I hope your winter is going well. If you have any questions, please email mike.dubour@verizon.net. Play it safe and come back next week.

Winter Recess

2009-02-19T07:53:00.000-08:00

I’ll be back next week to provide more info about Provincetown. In the meantime, please enjoy the pictures from my February 19, 2009 ptown blog entry at michaeldubour.com.

Provincetown Monthly News February 2009

2009-02-12T07:57:00.000-08:00

Cape Goes Red

2009-02-05T07:42:00.000-08:00

Provincetown has turned its monument red. Not literally, but in time for Valentines Day weekend, the monument is awash in red spotlights. The illumination of the tower is actually being done for awareness of heart disease and The American Heart Association as part of the “Cape Goes Red.”

Outer Cape Health laid off eight employees in late January. Two part time nurses, the Human Resource Director and various administrative staff.

Guesthouses and hotels that are open year round are reporting that President’s Day Weekend is going to be busy. Occupancy is up and rooms have been booked for the holiday weekend.
A new police officer joined the force in late January. He moved from Western Mass and will be full time. He now resides in Provincetown.

There’s not much else happening here this week. Come back next week and check out the monthly video news blog “Provincetown Monthly” for February.

Have fun and play it safe. Send me an email at mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Budget Cuts, Brrr and Then Some

2009-01-29T18:01:00.000-08:00

Wow. We’re already one month into the new year. That went fast. So Super Bowl Sunday is this weekend, who is playing anyhow?

It seems that Provincetown is not immune to budget deficits and recession issues. A $900,000 budget deficit was narrowed to $780,000 by conventional cuts and the town is seeking ways to balance the budget. The town is actively seeking creative ways to fill the gap. The Board of Selectmen have come up with ideas such as closing the Recreation Department, no longer offering free trash pickup in the winter, cutting the hours for the library for the winter or an unpaid furlough for town workers. The goal is to avoid layoffs during this recession.

If you live in Provincetown you may notice that your water bill has increased. As soon as this April, your water bill can increase anywhere from 10-13% from where it is now. The jump in the rate is due to a projected $266,000 deficit in the water enterprise fund. This fund is the entity that operates the finances for the water department.

The weather has been beyond cold so far this winter. In mid January, the combination of a frigid 12 degrees and wind gusts of 20 miles per hour, adjusted the wind chill to minus two degrees. This is colder than normal. A Providence Rhode Island weather station reported that there has been 18 inches more snow this year to date than last year.

The weather was so cold in fact, that it broke pipes at the administrative offices of the Provincetown Fire Station on Shank Painter Road. The ceiling and walls are damaged, bathrooms a mess and office equipment ruined. Repairs are being made.

The US Coast Guard would like to issue a warning to mariners due to the cold weather. Be sure to wear a wet suit, have proper safety equipment on board, and inform the coast guard of your trip. Always be sure to wear a life jacket and be warned that hypothermia sets in rather quickly if you are to fall in the cold water.

Penny for your thoughts? Well, you may not think a penny is worth saving these days but the students at Veterans Elementary School in Provincetown do. Through their efforts $650 worth of pennies were raised as part of “Pennies for Peace.” The pennies will be cashed in and money sent to schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan for supplies. All grades participated and students were encouraged to bring in their pennies from home. They started saving the copper in October.

Have you ever wanted to run for public office? Here’s your chance. Nomination papers are now available for Provincetown’s May Election. Positions open are Selectmen, Town Moderator, School Committee, Board of Library Trustees, Housing Authority and four positions on the Charter Enforcement Commission. All candidates must file nomination papers by 6pm March 17th with the town clerk. Good luck.

The $1.7 million dollar phase one repairs of town hall are moving along with no major snags. However, there have been areas of extreme rot and mold found and removed. These are unplanned repairs but according to town officials were expected and planned for.

Provincetown is looking to hire a new Tourism Director in the wake of the unexpected resignation of Lisa Bowden. The position was filled by Bowden in 2008 and she left citing personal reasons. So far, the town has received over 39 applications for the full time position which pays roughly $40,000 per year.

If you rent your home be sure to get your rental certificate from the Board of Health. Starting this year, there will be strict and high fines levied on any residential homeowner who rents and doesn’t have a certificate. The cost for the certificate and inspection is $150 for the first year and $60 each year thereafter for two years. The new fines are $100 for the first day, $200 second day and $300 for every day thereafter until the homeowner conforms.

You are now up to date for happenings in Provincetown. If you have a question, send me an email at mike.dubour@verizon.net. Play it safe.

Provincetown News for January 2009

2009-01-22T11:23:00.000-08:00

Mid January in Provincetown

2009-01-15T07:58:00.000-08:00

Bundle up from head to feet in winter attire if you dare brave Commercial Street. The winds are howling, houses are shaking from the gusts and fireplaces are alive with dancing flames. The bay is pretty cool with whitecaps holding a winter festival of their own.

This winter, the businesses in Provincetown have really expanded their offerings of things to do for townies. This is great for those who have been impacted by the recession and will be sticking around all winter.

Monday. The Mews is the place to be. Coffee House at The Mews brings out singers and songwriters from all over. Ron Robin, owner of The Mews, even flies talent in from New York City, courtesy of Cape Air. This open mic night is a benefit for WOMR radio in Provincetown, is hosted by local luminary Peter Donnelly and Provincetown’s east end café, Wired Puppy, provides free coffee. There is no reason not to go.

Tuesday. The Wellfleet Movie Theatre is open and playing first run movies. The last scheduled flicks of the day are usually around 7PM.

Wednesday. Bistro at The Crowne Pointe offers 2 for 1 entrees. What an affordable way to dine and relax in a comfortable and elegant atmosphere. Fine dining made available for all. Ain’t the off season great?

Napi’s Restaurant will host an open mic night of it’s own every second Wednesday through June. An open donation is requested to help with the costs. Celebrity writers are expected to be featured.
Thursday. Back at The Mews it’s 2 for 1 entrees. The atmosphere, friendly staff and great food make this another fun and cheap night out.

Friday. Michael Shays, Bayside Betsy’s and Fanizzi’s all offer affordable fish fries.

Saturday. Joe Mama’s at The Art House will start airing award winning movies from the past. There is no schedule as of yet, however, this is a great place to hang out with friends and chill, catch a movie and a bite to eat.

The A-house is open for dancing.

Counter Productions at The Provincetown Theatre offers plays. You can plan on the run occurring the last two weekends of each month.

Sunday. Get out of bed and get to Fanizzi’s or Michael Shays for an amazing brunch.

Comfort food at Bayside Betsy’s is where you can crash any diet. Delicious southern food, served up starting at only $9.95 is a nice way to end the weekend. If you desire a bit more fine dining, than Bistro at the Crowne Pointe offers Italian specials.

It appears that the owners of the building where George’s Pizza is located will resume the practice of making pizzas for us. They had rented the restaurant to a group that did not pay taxes for the past four years and were, shut down. They are expected to open in February.

That’s it for this week. Have fun, play it safe and send me an email if you’d like mike.dubour@verizon.net.

The First Week Ends

2009-01-08T11:24:00.000-08:00

A year of change is falling on Provincetown.

The restaurant industry has been impacted immensely. Clem and Ursies, Level and The Landmark restaurants will most likely not re-appear on the menu of dining choices next summer. It is pretty definite that these eateries are gone and tables cleared for good. But spontaneous resurrections have been known to happen in the Provincetown restaurant scene.

The year round pizza joint, George’s Pizza, was closed due to non payment of taxes back in November. It is rumored that the doors will open soon and home deliveries will be made. It’s fun to sit at the full bar and enjoy a drink, meet townies and weekend visitors and indulge in tasty food. Or you can sit by the window and watch locals trudge down Commercial Street. This is a winter favorite for many of us, so it will be nice to get it back.

Joe Mama, the restaurant that was located at The Aquarium Mall in Provincetown and made famous this past summer for Panini sandwiches and great tasting bagels, has been seriously busy since moving to The Art House and filling in at the Frappo space for the winter. They’ve been so busy with breakfast, lunch and dinner that they have run out of food a few times and had to close…much to the dismay of their fans. As a side note, Rick, the owner of Joe Mama, will be screening old movies throughout the winter. Hey… it’s something to do.

A bit of old news… Stop and Shop has taken over the Grand Union space. What a coat of whitewash will do. There is also something that just seems more organized about the Provincetown grocery store…the intangible. At some point this year, some say next month, some say next fall, Stop and Shop will absorb the vacant retail space to the left, facing the store. This was the area occupied by a Provincetown gym, a liquor store and most recently a store to buy beach items.

Counter Productions, located at The Provincetown Theatre, will be producing one play each month of the winter. Local Provincetown talent will make up the cast. This month the play, “Philadelphia, Here I Come” will be featured. You can visit www.counter-productions.org for more information. BTW auditions are held monthly for those who would like to try acting in the New Year.

A personal observation: I’ve met a lot of folks who made the decision to move here in 2009.

Surprisingly, the age demographic is wide. After seeing an influx of the more mature crowd enter the Provincetown population over the past six years, I’ve met twenty five year olds who want no part of hum drum jobs, guys and gals in their thirties who are achieving the dream of moving here and retirees who finally stepped out of the corporate world. It seems that the allure of Provincetown is still strong.
I’ll touch base next week and let you know what’s going on. Check back here on Thursday afternoon or Friday morning.

Have a great weekend and play it safe! Email me feedback at mike.dubour@verizon.net.

To New Beginnings

2008-12-29T05:58:00.001-08:00

The year has come to an end and what a year it has been. I’ve met so many new friends and incredible people this past year. I also experienced many new things. Most of which can be read right here. Trips to Atlanta, a small town in Tennessee, Savannah, New York City, Westhampton, MA, Puerto Rico, Vieques, Boston and Providence have truly been fun.

I start my 6th year, January 1st, on the sandbar that is Provincetown. How strange to think that it has been that long. In that time, I started a business and sold it, renovated a house, continued my real estate career in perhaps the worst market since the great depression, explored my creative side through writing and created and hosted radio and television programs. I even raised an Italian Greyhound I never anticipated having. Everything combined seems so unreal, yet a little too real.

The intense summers followed by equally vacant winters take their toll on a single guy out here. I even thought about leaving a few times. New York City has been a big draw, in fact, most people I know who live here are from the big apple.

But now, no matter where I visit, I realize that Provincetown is my home. I’ve come of age here.
I know I’m home when every other face I see on the street or in the store, says “hi.” It is comforting and I feel as if I‘m Jessica Fletcher walking the streets of Cabot Cove. I giggle to myself when I hear the grocery store still referred to as the A+P after years of being the Grand Union and is now a Stop and Shop. Change is not an easy thing here but it happens constantly.

I smile when I see Ellie singing in her fur coat in front of a fenced off, vacant town hall in the dead of winter and says “hi mike.” I know I’m home when the clerk at the candy store knows my order as I’m walking in the door, or the post office clerk has the stamps ready for me because the only time I visit the counter is for postage.

I anticipate the arrival of my friends from off-cape on Friday the weekends they come out. And I watch their sad faces when I hug them goodbye on Sunday, knowing what they feel and knowing I will most likely not have to feel that again. Leaving this magical place is not easy.

Free movie nights at The Cape End Inn, Town Meetings, High Tide in the east end during storms, Taco Tuesday, Joe Coffee, Comfort Food Sunday at Bayside Betsy’s, Sunday brunch at Fanizzi’s, Coffee House at The Mews, Tea Dance, Drag Shows, Choral Concerts, dinner parties, great restaurants… my goodness the list goes on and on…and only here.

This New Years Eve, after being away for the past two, I will visit Herring Cove Beach to watch the sunset and say goodbye to a truly incredible, exciting, sad and happy year. 2008 brought much personal growth and was the start of a new chapter in my life. I learned to let go of the past and extend gratitude to what has been. I now look forward to what is yet to be.

I hope you have a happy and healthy new year! Thanks for reading my blog this past year and sharing in my experience. This blog will be dedicated mostly to Provincetown news in 2009.

Feel free to send me an email at mike.dubour@verizon.net and remember to play it safe!

High Tide, East End

2008-12-15T15:47:00.000-08:00

Holly Folly, Holiday Parties and Linda Eder

2008-12-08T04:42:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was Holly Folly in Provincetown and from what I hear, it was a success. I say from what I hear, because I wasn’t here.

There were many concerts, caroling and guesthouse tours. Retail businesses report to me that they did well.

The Art House is doing very well with Joe Mama pumping out sandwiches for dinner. It has become the hang out for many. Great atmosphere.

There is news that the young volunteer firefighter who flipped the ladder truck was OUI.

The Grand Union has closed and renovations for Stop and Shop have started.

The Lands End Inn in the West End opened its doors Friday for a townie party. Michael, the owner, served delicious food and beverages all night. It was packed with familiar faces and some peeps who I’ve never seen before. It was a good time.

On Saturday, I left town for a holiday party in Bolton at the very lovely home of my friends Jay and Jose. The atmosphere was festive, guests were friendly and good times were had by all. Plenty of folk from New York and Boston mixed it up in holiday flavor. There was a lot of tasty food…most of which was homemade.

On Sunday, Brian and I went to see Linda Eder at The Wilbur Theatre in Boston. She sang a mix of Christmas carols and songs off her new cd “The Other Side of Me.” The songs are fun and a bit country. She looked fantastic and sounded wonderful. The Wilbur was almost sold out. I must say, she is back!

That’s it for this week. I hope your holiday season is going nicely.

Please email me at mike.dubour@verizon.net and remember to play it safe.

Holidays Are Here

2008-12-01T19:26:00.000-08:00

The holidays are officially upon us. Provincetown ushered in the season by the lighting of the monument Wednesday night. Bright white lights are hung down the sides of the Pilgrim Monument and make it appear is if it is a huge tree when viewed from afar.

I enjoyed a feast off cape for Thanksgiving with some friends who I had not seen in awhile. It was a treat.

I also viewed the movie “Milk” which is about the first openly gay elected official Harvey Milk. He was a city supervisor in San Francisco and assassinated in 1978.
This movie is a must see for everyone. Many don’t know who Harvey Milk was…and I must admit, knew briefly of him, but, now know more. I can’t speak enough about this movie.

This past weekend was busy in town. Many visitors came down for the holiday.

Join the owner of The Lands End Inn this Friday in Provincetown for a holiday open house party. Let the parties begin!

Catch me next week and thanks for reading. Send me an email if you want mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Thanksgving Week

2008-11-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

I just got home from Open Mic night at The Mews. I must say, this was one of the best Coffee House at The Mews that I’ve been too. Every act was amazing. I had dinner with friends Bernard and Scott from New York and John from Provincetown. The food was delicious, service splendid, company wonderful and the acts very talented.

If you find yourself in Ptown this winter on a Monday night, be sure to check out The Mews. Coffee House starts at 8PM and the featured performer comes on at 9PM. It is truly a treat…a more conservative and civilized version of Showgirls. There is requested donation of $3.00 to benefit WOMR radio.

This past weekend the winds blew fiercely and the weather was freezing. The town was pretty dead with little activity on Commercial Street. I was able to catch quite a few movies up cape to pass the time.

Earlier in the week my friends Billy and Tony came out from Boston. We went to Taco Tuesday at The Crown and Anchor… great venue for socializing, just don’t eat too much as it is a buffet.

We also saw Anne Stott perform at The Grotto at Enzo’s. She was very entertaining and she drew a nice crowd for a Tuesday off season.

We ate breakfast at the Crowne Pointe Guesthouse where Billy stayed. Sweet potato pancakes were delicious and the coffee was perhaps the best I’ve had in town… except for JOE of course.

Last Monday night, John and I attended town meeting where a tax was approved to be levied upon second homeowners on their vacation rentals. I am in complete disagreement with this tax. I’ll make this fast, but I do need to vent.

Most second homeowners, when they rent, usually do so out of genuine need to pay part of their mortgage. They are gay and lesbians who want to achieve that dream of owning in Provincetown. When they rent, they need to pay cleaners, managers and realtors, so they really do not make a “killing” as some think. Taxing second homeowners sends the wrong message to our subculture about Provincetown.

Guesthouse owners feel the tax is fare since they’ve been paying it for years in the form of room tax. Their argument is that the consumer pays it, not the homeowner and it will bring more revenue to the town. I understand and appreciate the argument, however, when you stay at a guesthouse or hotel, there is a level of service that you expect which you do not get when you rent an apartment.

There were plenty of high fives and applause when this passed, narrowly, by 20 votes. Those who passed this tax, in my humble opinion, have a serious misperception as to how this may impact us. It is important for our local economy that renters keep coming armed with enough cash to spend on retail, art, entertainment and at restaurants. This tax, based on the argument that the consumer will pay, takes away that extra money that a vacationer may have to spend on a business in town. So, just to push back a bit, the person who will really pay for this tax is the business owner in Provincetown who gets cut out of the vacation spending budget.

When I witnessed a local storeowner jump up with joy when the tax passed and shriek a loud “yeah!” and throw a fist through the air, I wanted to approach her and ask if she thought this was good for her business. To reiterate my argument; asking the renter or second homeowner to pay more taxes can really impact that extra cash a vacationer may use to buy senseless bric-a-brac, especially during a recession. The tax may amount to an extra $100 to $200 per rental, at least. This can influence a vacationer to decide whether or not they really need to buy a doormat that says “Welcome friends and ocean waves.”

We’ll see where this goes as an appeal movement is in the process. I’ll keep you posted.

In other news out here, the driver of who flipped the fire truck a couple weeks back has been cited. Three criminal citations have been issued against him...speeding, failure to use care at an intersection, and operating a motor vehicle as to endanger. He is only 21 years old. I’m not happy about the accident but as long as no one was hurt I’d like to see him reprimanded in other ways.

That’s it for this week. Have a happy Thanksgiving and play it safe. Email me if you want mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Yo Necessito Mi Café Con Leche En La Manana

2008-11-17T13:11:00.000-08:00

NOTE: To view the pictures that go with this entry, check out the version of this blog on PTownMa.info.

The season has really ended, the boys retreated back to their respective homes and I took off on vacation. Last week, Brian and I went to Puerto Rico for a fun filled retreat. I have never been to the sunny island or “la isla bonita” as most license plates read. I’ll recap for you the trip along with some pictures. But first let’s talk Provincetown.

While I was away, The Grand Union was sold to Stop and Shop. This is huge…what will we do without the GU? Most folks are happy about the purchase. The store will be closed December 5-7th for the change. Right now, there are great deals on pretty much everything as they attempt to clear house. The pharmacy will remain open. There is even talk of remodeling…my friend Rich wants the store to expand into a neighboring vacant retail space…and in true Reagan fashion he wants to yell “Mr. Manager, tear down this wall” to the undulating cheers of townies.

George’s Pizza…the only pizza joint left open for the off-season, was forced to close its doors after being seized for non payment of taxes. Shoot…looks like frozen pizza for the winter.

Finally, our $500,000 hook and ladder truck was flipped on Route 6 by a 21 year old volunteer firefighter. He was not on his way to an emergency and had his girlfriend in the truck with him. The truck rolled a few times. Wow!!!!! Thank God they are OK.

Now back to vacation. Brian called me about one month ago and wanted to go on a trip. I recommended the old stand by, Fort Lauderdale, would make a great vacation…but he wanted to go somewhere different. I gave him a few days to come up with an alternative and he called a few days later, very excited, saying our destination would be Puerto Rico. I laughed to myself at some subtle irony that lay in his choice of place and dates of travel…but I agreed and we made the plans.

We stayed at The Caribe Hilton in San Juan. This is a great hotel compound and our room had quite the view. Our first day there we relaxed on hammocks suspended between two palm trees on the beach. I crashed and literally fell asleep.

The next day we were up early and treated ourselves to room service breakfast on the balcony which overlooks a historic fort and the ocean (great coffee in Puerto Rico btw…and I grew addicted to café con leche). Then we went to the beach, jumped on this oddly huge trampoline that was floating in the ocean…. We had so much fun that we attracted tons of little girls who climbed on the trampoline and shrieked in delight…it was our cue to leave.

We flew to Vieques later that day for an overnight. We had a smooth flight and saw awesome views of Puerto Rico from the air. That night we swam in the Bioluminescent Bay with microorganisms that glowed in the dark...this was truly an amazing experience.

The next day we swam at Sun Bay Beach.. postcard beautiful… and we were the only ones there!

We flew back to San Juan and toured El Morro in Old San Juan. This structure is a fantastic fort built in the 1500’s that was once used by the Spanish to guard San Juan. It was here that I met a cute Puerto Rican man working in the gift shop/book store. We exchanged quite a few glances as he was just too darn cute…but I left.

We walked through Old San Juan and Brian took tons of pictures. We had café con leche at a plaza de Armas… and then, in Walgreens, while getting sun glasses, I ran into the cute Latino boy from the bookstore. I had to say hi…his name is Julio.

Brian and I had dinner at Café Berlin at the suggestion of my friend George. It was absolutely delicious and the service was impeccable. I tried speaking Spanish most of the trip and that got us great service and smiles everywhere we went… possibly because they were laughing at my attempt. But overall I think it was appreciated.

The next day we drove to Ponce in south Puerto Rico. It is a historic city. Brian went crazy with the photographs. Then we drove to the west coast to the Playa Crashboat and Aquidillo. Puerto Rico is a beautiful island and we saw our share this day.

That night we met up with Julio at a restaurant called Baru in old San Juan. The bar tender, Demaris, was really nice and she gave us free drinks, great food created lots of fun. We toured Old San Juan with our own personal guide. Blend and The Pink Umbrella seemed to be the hot spots.

The next day was deemed a do nothing day. After an hour long tennis match, Brian and I worked out at the gym and got massages at the hotel spa by a very attractive Puerto Rican man. Awesome massage… We relaxed in the hammocks again and then went to The Atlantic Beach House in the Condado for tea dance. It was pretty lame to be honest but we did meet two New Yorkers who were lots of fun. Hopefully, we’ll see more of them. That evening we went to Fort San Cristobal in Old San Juan for a historic light and shadow show…Julio got us in for free. Afterwards, we ate at Café Puerto Rico… the food was good but we were rushed so I can’t really comment favorably on the place at this point. On the way to Julio’s apartment we bumped into real estate guru Barbara Corcoran. I’m a big fan of her achievements and was really shocked at having run into her.

Our last full day in Puerto Rico was spent at El Yunque Rain Forest. We walked the trails and swam under a waterfall. It was truly magical and awe inspiring.

Our last day there while we grieved the end of our fabulous trip, Brian, in a fit of thanksgiving, wrapped a towel on his head and sang “Ave Maria” from our balcony… it was mesmerizing and haunting…a nice way to say goodbye.

We flew home Tuesday…back to reality. Mitt Romney, our former governor sat in front of us on the plane. That was strange. We were delayed for two hours on the runway before leaving…. We should have stayed and extended the vacation. I ultimately missed my connection to Cape Air in Boston, but Jet Blu put me up at the Hyatt until the next morning… one more night in a hotel and delaying my re-entry.

I’m definitely heading back to Puerto Rico. The place is a mix of extreme poverty and beauty. What a contrast. Everyone was friendly and I got to try and speak Spanish. In fact, most of the time, folks addressed me in Spanish and I didn’t do too badly responding. I’m going back.

That’s it for this week. Play it safe and email me at mike.dubour@verizon.net if you have questions.

Autumn Scenes in Provincetown

2008-11-10T06:19:00.000-08:00

Trick or treat indeed!

2008-11-03T14:31:00.001-08:00

It is Sunday night and I’m wrapping up an incredibly fun weekend here in Provincetown.

Halloween fell on a Friday so the town was full of Boston and New York guys…I even ran into a few from Philly.

The town was unbelievably packed and Commercial Street held crowds as if it were summer. Friday night was a parade of costumes up and down Commercial Street…the paparazzi were out snapping photos.

Paramount, A-House, Vixen and even the BoatSlip were open with Halloween bashes. Provincetown was the place to be this weekend.

A group of us ate dinner Saturday night at Jimmie’s Hideaway…Barb (Babs), Marguerite, John, Mark, Bill, Rich and Paul… it was pretty good… then we went to see Poor Superman at The Art House…one of hopefully many off season performances that will be there. The house was full, acting superb and storyline pretty powerful. My friends Anne, Spencer and Scott were the main characters.

Earlier in the week, John and I viewed an Italian movie “Seven Beauties” at PAAM (Provincetown Art Association and Museum). Great movie from the 1970’s…The era is World War II and the setting is a concentration camp. It really sets perspective. Try and watch it if you can find this movie.

Tonight, I saw “Religulous” with John at The Art House Theatre. I must say it’s quite the thought provoking flick.

My short film Pump; Terror on the Bike Trail will be screened next week as part of Outer 2K8, The OUTer Gay and Lesbian Science Fiction and Fantasy Film Festival in Austin, Texas. You can have your very own private screening right here. Click on the links below to check out the festival and to watch the movie on Youtube. It’s very short.

Pump: Terror on the bike trail, Click here.

Outerfest, Click here.

Remember to come to Provincetown in the last few weeks of the fall. It is absolutely beautiful. Also, it’s not too early to start planning for New Years Eve! It is quite the bash here! I think I’ll stay put this year after being away from home for two New Years Eve’s in a row. Last year, I ventured to Atlanta and the year before to The Hamptons.

Next week is “Meet Your Mate’s Weekend.” All you single guys can come out for some fun and just maybe you’ll meet the man of your dreams…or men.

Ok.. that’s it this week. Play it safe and feel free to shoot me an email at mike.dubour@verizon.net.

I’ll be on vacation for the next two weeks. Next Monday my webmaster, Paul, will post a link for you to watch video scenes I shot of Autumn in Provincetown. Check it out, you’ll wish you were here. See ya.

Fantasia Fair and Round Up

2008-10-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

Don’t forget to vote on November 4th. This election is very important for so many reasons. Here’s a chilling fact; hate crimes in general have decreased across the nation while crimes against gays and lesbians have increased. Electing a Democrat to the presidency along with the Democratic Congress for at least two years is more promising for us than having a Republican in the white house. Ok I’ll get off the box.

Here’s why places like Provincetown are still so important and valuable.

Fantasia Fair occurred this week. There is truly nowhere on Earth where hundreds of transgender folk come to town, have fun and address issues that face their subculture without being harassed. Provincetown openly welcomed them to town for their weeklong conference. All week, cross dressers, their friends and family walked Commercial Street, shopped and socialized. It was fun to “people watch” this week with no judgment, only acceptance in my heart (except for the occasional unfortunate outfit). All walks of life are welcome here and part of what makes this place so very special.

The Round Up was also here this week. Celebrating 21 years, “Serenity by The Sea” was a success. I met many interesting people at the event from all over the country. In particular, my new friends from Philadelphia are extra special. I met Chris and Tom early in the week and for me, there was an instant connection. Later, I was introduced to the rest of their group… Jack and Philip. We all cliqued and I was sad to see them leave. I think I may be going to Philly for a visit.

Part of the Round Up included a variety show which was attended by close to 500 gays and lesbians. It was a lot of fun, especially my friend’s imitation of Phyllis Diller…dead on.

This Friday is Halloween and means the town will be absolutely packed. If you haven’t been to Provincetown for Halloween, than get your fanny here. It rivals Salem, Ma in intensity, only Provincetown is full of talented and creative straight and gay folk who want to have happy fun… Salem can get a bit rough. But here the costumes are outrageous. Every bar has a contest or you can just walk up and down Commercial Street. It is like a parade. I still have to buy some candy as I usually get about a hundred trick or treat'rs. Since it falls on a Friday, the town will be mobbed.

That’s it for this week. I’ll let you know how Halloween was. Friends are coming from Boston and want me to dress up. I’m not too sure about that.

Email me if you have a comment mike.dubour@verizon.net and remember to play it safe and VOTE!

From Women's Week to Nantucket and Back

2008-10-20T17:42:00.000-07:00

Women’s Week was here! It was the 24th year women converged on our lovely hamlet to celebrate womanhood. The town was busy with ladies who came for fun, shows and workshops. I went away for two days.

Getting off our “island” for my weekend to Nantucket was quite fun. It is nice to see another Cape Cod resort town in the throws of a shoulder season. The weird part was that no stores offered an end of season discount like Provincetown. Some stores here are offering 70% off merchandise before closing for the winter.
John, Tony and I took the slow ferry Tuesday morning in part because we were in no hurry to be anywhere. What a tremendous feeling that was. We sat in the “first class” section of the slow ferry to Nantucket. Now don’t get too excited, first class on this ferry means padded chairs, free coffee and a Danish pastry. How can one resist for the $7.00 surcharge?

My last trip to the rock was in August and I travelled on the fast ferry surrounded by corporate weekenders seeking a retreat from their lives. This time, we were surrounded by an elderly travel group. The soft classical music was quickly drowned out by men and women yelling to hear themselves. No harm was done though but the pastry disappeared rather quickly.

I know you’re reading this because you want to know about Ptown, so I’ll explain the Nantucket get away quickly. It was nice to walk down the street and not know anyone. The cobblestone streets are beautiful and downtown Nantucket is quite nice, as if a gay man designed it. I’m not complaining about Provincetown and I love running into friends here, that’s one of its charms, but it was a nice break. We stayed at a lovely B+B called The Anchor Inn. It was located in town. We walked everywhere and I didn’t rent a bike this time. We dined at Lo La 41 at the referral of a friend who has a home on Nantucket. I asked him for a chic and stylish eatery for the upwardly mobile who come to play. Of course I knew I‘d find some sisters there…. and we did… we sat right next to a lovely gay couple visiting the island from Denver, Colorado. We even spied a few others tipping their martinis and laughing. The dinner was delicious, atmosphere pleasant and service excellent. I highly recommend the place.

John and I toured the island on Wednesday. We saw a historic old house, windmill and lighthouse that was just moved due to erosion. We were informed that Macy’s Department Store and Folgers Coffee got their starts on the island.

We headed back to mainland on the ferry. Once we landed, we had dinner at a hip restaurant on Main Street in Hyannis called Colombo.

Back in Provincetown, I embraced Women’s Week by attending “The Really Big Show” at the UU Meeting House with Marguerite and Barbara. This two hour extravaganza was attended by at least 300 women. I think I was one of three guys there. It started with the lesbian drum corp…pretty wild percussionists…yes, I got totally into it. The hostess Mimi Gonzalez introduced the acts…there were opera singers, drag kings (very interesting) Broadway singers, a pianist, comedians and my favorite; The Mount Holyoke College Glee Club sang do- wop. . I bought four of their cds after the show. Next year, I plan to attend more of the shows for Women’s Week…what a fun part of our subculture.

Tonight, I attended a classical piano recital at the UU Meeting House. My friend John Stott performed numerous classical pieces from Chopin, Beethoven and Listz…from memory. It was amazing and his hands literally danced over the ivory.

This week Fantasia Fair starts. It is a particularly fun week with the cross dressers here in town. Most of them have their wives with them. I’m serious. I love seeing their outfits.

Well, that’s it for this week. Nothing Earth shattering happening out here. Keep reading and have a fun week. Remember to play it safe. mike.dubour@verizon.net

An Amazing Gay Wedding, and More

2008-10-13T11:38:00.000-07:00

I’m writing this after attending an amazing gay wedding. I feel high with the good time that this event was. My friends Phillip and Scott were married at The Provincetown Inn. Phillip is Jewish and Scott a Christian… the wedding was an amazing mix of both religions…more Christian, however.

The weather was absolutely beautiful as they exchanged vows with Provincetown Harbor and skyline as a backdrop. I thought that maybe someday I will be married. Then I laughed…not sure I believe in that institution at this point in my life. Gay marriage is now legal in MA, CT and CA. It will be a matter of time before gay marriage is just not an issue. With the economy in shambles, a depressing war taxing our nerve and AIDS making a comeback…the fact that two people want to exchange vows and commit to each other legally, is not so important. At least it shouldn’t be.

Anyhow, the wedding was quite traditional and the setting was marvelous. The Tiffany Room at the inn was the perfect place for the reception. There was the Christian blessing, they were married under their own chuppa, we all yelled mazel tov after the grooms smashed the glass, the meal blessing, the first dance, the hora dance, we carried one groom on a chair while dancing (the other groom didn’t want to be carried), the cutting of the cake… it was by all means the way life is supposed to be. A huge mix of about 200 friends and relatives were there. Phillip and Scott are truly blessed. Good luck guys.

Now about Provincetown. The large Navy barracks boat that was here for the past five years, was towed away last week. It is gone. The empty space was sadly noticeable until I realized that it really was an eyesore. Cabral Wharf looks great now.

It's Women’s Week and there are many shows happening. Lots of talent in town and the weather is unbelievable and the streets are crowded. My dear friends Barb, Marguerite, Laurie, Elaine, Rich, Mark and Bill dined at Fanizzi’s Saturday night. We had a great time and Tanya provided excellent service. We were at dinner for three hours!

Well I’m off to Nantucket for my weekend with my friends Tony and John. I know you want to see more pictures and I’ll provide some of the trip next week.

Thanks for your emails and for reading. Have a good week and play it safe. Send me an email… I love them mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Pumpkins and Scarecrows

2008-10-06T07:04:00.000-07:00

Pumpkins and scarecrows are popping up all over Commercial Street. Fall is here. It’s the time to shop as most retail stores have discounted their goods considerably.

This past weekend was Leather Mates in Provincetown. There were lots of leather and chains on Commercial Street. Friday night was the slave auction at The Crown and Anchor. I lasted ten minutes and had to leave. It just wasn’t my scene. In fact, most of the events of weekend were of no interest to me. That particular subculture has never been a draw for me. I had tried it back in the spring and it didn’t stick.
This week, I’d like to provide a link to my friend Monica’s blog. She rode across country solo on her motorcycle from Manhattan to California. I think this is pretty awesome and courageous. Click here to read about it.

We dined at The Mews this past week. The usually impeccable service was thrown off a bit by one of our meals being a little less than perfect... read about it in this week’s "Table for Three."

I’ll write more next week. Columbus Day Weekend is coming, Women’s Week and I’m going to Nantucket for a couple days for a fall weekend. Email me if you’d like to add anything mike.dubour@verizon.net ... Play it safe and have a good week.

Open Embrace for Autumn

2008-09-29T19:19:00.000-07:00

Fall has officially started and I’ve been asked to stop bitching about the season ending. I will and openly embrace the chilly weather and foliage trips. There is fun during these months as the warmth slowly leaves us, clouds and darkness move in and the days get shorter. There is that pleasant smell of wood burning in the air.
The crowds have finally left Commercial Street and the off-season has begun.

We’ve had some miserable weather while The Tennessee Williams Festival was in town. But, I frankly didn’t care and never made it to any of the events. I did have good intentions and was going to attend at least one. I’m just burned out from the summer and need to recharge. The doggie tea dance took place at The Boatlsip and Pia wanted to go, but the cold rainy weather, combined with my desire to stay indoors, kept me away.

Yes, I’ve been a recluse this past week… so sue me. LOL.

I did go to a fundraiser for WildCare at Front Street with Rich. It was a multi course meal. Everything was absolutely delicious. Shrimp tempura, lobster tail, filet mignon, etc…

Saturday, I dined at Victor’s with friends Scott and John who introduced me to two new friends. It was a fun time with great food.

Sunday, Mark, Rich and I ate a simple meal at George’s Pizza. I’m just getting in winter mode and slowing down a bit.

Rich officially started his company RKM Property Management which brings back memories of me moving here with an ex. He’s going to do very well with the business.

That’s it. Basically, it was just a week to socialize.

Leather Mates weekend is coming up starting Friday. I hear there is a slave auction…hmmmmm. Besides barbeques and other fun, who knows what trouble we can all get into.

A little bit of town gossip: Pat Fecher was promoted to Associate Executive Director of The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod. Good luck to her…she will be amazing in the position. Her former position of Public Affairs Director is open…thinking of making a move here???

Not much else to report this week.

Drop me a line at mike.dubour@verizon.net if you want. Thanks for reading and play it safe.

It's Official, The Secret is Out

2008-09-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

As I was driving from the east end to the west end on an appointment last week, it occurred to me… in late September, this trip, down Bradford Street, should only take 5 minutes… not the 15 it would eventually take. September has always been our little gem of a month. Warm weather, warm water and small crowds… It truly still seems like August out here.

Not much happening this week. I went to perhaps my last tea dance two Sunday’s ago. Tea will happen on Friday and Saturday only through early October… which means pretty much… its over.

Now I’m not one to bitch….but….the gossip for this blog is my irritation at what seems to be a huge waste of tax payer money in Provincetown.

For those of you who are familiar with the town, Route Six, at the intersection of Shank Painter Road, will be narrowed to a two lane highway heading west. Why? Who knows, I think someone feels it’s a public safety hazard. The true hazard is using taxpayer money in a recession to fund a silly project. The existing system works. In five + years that I have lived here, there have been no issues that need attention. Maybe some construction group needs a contract and they know the right peeps.

Ok, that’s enough. This will all take place next to the new dog park, which my friend Barbara, or Babs, as we call her, is helping to build. The high fence has been put up and the park is coming together. It will be a great place for our puppies to play. Speaking of that, this coming weekend is dog tea at The Boatslip…. It includes a fashion show for your canine companion…

If you stand at The Boatslip and look directly across the street. The house that used to sit there has been demolished. The entire rear section has been ripped off…. The interior of the remaining structure gutted and the house moved on the sidewalk. Its pretty cool in all honesty.

All this and The Historic Commission actually approved it. Everyone else has a hard time getting dormers and flower boxes…. Wow…. can you say “ole boy?” My prediction is that the house will be demolished due to it being unsafe. As I write this I’ve heard two very large banging noises and vibrations coming from that area.

Other stuff… Connie’s Bakery, located near my house, has reverted to shoulder season hours. This means Thursday through Sunday only for the yummies.

I want to send out a hello this week to two new friends Jose and Jay. They are wonderful guys, and cute, who visited from Boston and we had a lot of fun.

John, mark and I dined at Bistro 404 the other night at the recommendation of friends Jose and Jay. Click here to read John’s write up on this week’s Table for Three.

That’s it for now. Have a great week and play it safe. Email me if you want to provide input, mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Has Summer Really Ended?

2008-09-15T21:59:00.001-07:00

Ok. So its after Labor Day and usually Commercial Street empties of the crowds and madness. This year seems different. As I was enjoying a slice of Spiritus pizza with a co-worker, mid week, we watched shirtless boys and throngs of tourists walk up and down the street, in and out of the shops. Could it be that our secret month has been exposed to all? This morning, as I was walking to JOE to get my Americano, I spotted two queens walking to The Boatslip with towels. It was 84 degrees and sunny!

This past weekend felt like mid August, never mind mid September. Friday night, The Porch Bar was packed full of people. Both indoor bars and the deck were absolutely filled.

Saturday night, Rich, John ad I went to see Jimmy James at The Post Office Cabaret. I must say that the show was great. I really wasn’t motivated to see him, but John wanted to. I am grateful because the show was fantastic. He did three encores… a rarity in ptown and something I don’t think I’ve ever seen. His show, btw was sold out.

Two other shows were sold out; At the Vixen, Sextrology was a hit and my fave…Dina Martina, played at the Crown. Our little hamlet by the bay is becoming a fall destination.

Saturday, I worked the ticket gate and volunteered my time at the WOMR Boogie By the Bay Music Fest. Local bands played while peeps danced in Wellfleet at Mayo Beach. It was a lot of fun.

Here’s a lil bit of gossip to chew on. The Art House Theatre which hosted such luminaries as Varla Jean and Miss Richfield, will stay open year round. Frappo, the delicious high-end buffet restaurant, will close for the winter. In its place, Joe Mama Bagels will operate. Joe Mama’s is located at the end of the Aquarium Mall across from the Gelato place. They have awesome breakfast sandwiches and pressed sandwiches. Right now they only serve breakfast and lunch but may possibly expand hours of operation due to the Art House being open at night.

The Art House will host a variety of events this winter. They will mostly show movies. Currently, a play is being rehearsed that will start right after Women’s Week in mid October and run for three weeks. This is great for us townies looking for something to keep us busy.

Well, keep tuned. The shoulder season is upon us. Womens’ Week is coming up. We’ll be seeing Paula Poundstone, Kate Clinton and Jennifer Coolidge in town. Rumors are starting to circulate that K.D. Lang will be here.

Halloween is always a blast. It rivals Salem, MA in fun and crowds. We take the edge when it comes to costume creativity though.

Single men’s weekend is also approaching with speed dating, workshops and a weekend full of activities.

Thanksgiving is always a busy weekend here, then Holly Folly and the last bang of the year, New Years Eve!

Email me if you have any questions… mike.dubour@verizon.net. Thanks for reading and play it safe.

Of Dusk and Summer

2008-09-08T22:00:00.000-07:00

A quick blog entry this week. The summer has gone but the streets are still full of shirtless boys and tourists. I guess the secret that September is our best month has leaked out.

How did we do overall in regards to tourism? Retail reported to me that June was a strong month, July soft and August robust. Restaurants and entertainers tell me that the summer was strong. Art sales were weak according to the gallery owners I spoke with.

Well, fall is a couple weeks away. With it comes the cooler weather.

I went to the last Showgirls of the season this past week. It was sad as I was at the very first one just three short months ago. Olive Another (the crazy drag queen who barks for the show and has drinks tossed at her) won showgirl of the year 2008. John, Rich, Bernard, Scott and I dined at The Central House prior to the show. It was actually really good. A far cry from the blundering experience Rich and I had back in May. It was perhaps one of the best meals I had in town. See what John thought and read this week’s "Table for Three."

I spent two days in Boston last week and didn’t really do anything this past weekend.

Pump 2 is in the process of being made. If you don’t know what I mean, click here and watch "Pump 1. This is a short film about a monster drag queen that I wrote and produced two years ago. I’ve been encouraged by many peeps in town to make a sequel. I’ve decided to do it.

Email me any comments at mike.dubour@verizon.net. Play it safe.

Summer Comes to an End

2008-09-01T20:46:00.000-07:00

The last week of summer was a mad rush of activity, especially Labor Day Weekend. It was as if everyone, all at once realized, that life was coming to an end and every event had to be attended. This isn’t a bad thing, but listening to tourists, seasonal workers and friends lament their exodus from Provincetown made me once again thankful to be living here (even though at times the sand does close in on ya).

Ironically enough, the streets are still full of boys and tourists. It seems as though no one told them the season has ended. The telltale is at The Art House, Crown and Anchor and Post Office Cabaret where the show advertisements have been removed and nothing but black space remains.

So my week was action packed (get your mind out of the gutter). It was the culmination of an incredibly busy summer.

It started out Monday night with John, Brian and I going to see “Shut Up Sweet Charlotte” at The Art House Theatre. Varla Jean was one of the stars and this was a brilliantly funny remake of the old Betty Davis flick. What a fun way to start the last week of the season.

Tuesday, I was up early and heading to Hyannis to catch the boat to Nantucket for my weekend, Tuesday and Wednesday. Friends Mark and Duncan had rented a house on Starbuck Road (like the café, without the “s” on the end… that’s how its known) and offered me a room for my “Saturday” night.

The fast ferry ride from Hyannis was quite the experience. I climbed on board expecting something similar to the ride from Boston to Ptown. Instead of squeaky queens excited for a weekend in Ptown, it was filled with white, corporate vacationers. I could feel the stress in the air. Polo shirts tucked into pleated shorts and loafers with no socks. Those “high end” straights sure liked to drink and there was a huge line at the snack bar as I went to get my morning coffee.

I sat next to two guys who I perceived as possible sisters. Those of you that know me probably already guessed. My gaydar is as accurate as John McCain’s pick for a scandal free running mate and the two guys were as straight as they come. One even carried a gun. So I sat silently while little children screeched and lined up to pet the only dog on the boat ... brought on by a soccer mom who insisted on sitting next to me. Are dogs even allowed on the ferry? I read the Boston Globe and blended in as best I could. But I did feel the stares. I’m not sure how a tight pink pull over and daisy dukes were inappropriate wear for the Nantucket ferry ride. I jest. I was dressed a little more conservatively. The uneasiness of the ride was pleasantly interrupted by two text messages from Miss Coco Peru. I sent her an email complimenting her Ptown performance and she actually responded. It was fun.

I landed on the rock (as it is called) and met Mark and Duncan who had come to the pier to greet me. How fun. In my tanned state and pencil thin beard, they mentioned that I looked middle eastern coming off the boat. That could explain the looks and whispers.

We rented bikes, hit the beach and had a blast riding all over the island. What a different world. Everything on Nantucket that we saw was nearly perfect and pristine. Most families had nannies taking care of the kids. At times I felt like it was 1920. The second day we hit another beach, “Surfside.” We found the boys, quite by accident, and it was fun. The six of us, all gathered in one spot. I did get some tips from a Facebook buddy as to where to go for entertainment and gay friendly atmosphere.

Tuesday night, we made dinner at home, all had facials and watched Hillary Clinton speak at the convention. What a truly relaxing time, away from the crazy gayness of Provincetown.

My last day there, I happened to meet a really nice guy named Clay. Apparently, there is a gay Nantucket, its just subdued and not “in your face.” As I was parting Wednesday night, I ran into Bruce, a successful real estate investor who I used to work for in Boston. We discussed how Nantucket is becoming gayer. Hmmm. Lets keep an eye on this. It seems to still be hush, hush.

Anyhow, back to my little island and Labor Day Weekend. It was very busy in the real estate end of things. There were a lot of showings…maybe a sign that things are turning around. Who knows.

Friday night, the entire staff of Atlantic Bay Sotheby’s went to dinner at Frappo and to see Varla Jean. We advertised in her show this year. It was my third time seeing her show for the season, and still fun.

Saturday night was the Art Auction for The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod. A lot of money was raised for the group. Due to town hall being condemned, the location of the auction, was the fish barn at the end of Cabral Pier. Here’s some news…the large barracks barge that has been tied up there for five years will be removed from the pier shortly.

There was a huge white party in the west end of town at Delft Haven this past weekend. My duties kept me at the auction but friends say it was fun.

Mark, Anthony, John, Rich and I dined at Front Street Sunday night. The meal was good. Read this week’s "Table for Three" for more details. Then it was off to see Jackie Beat. It was her last show and the one that I had not seen. She was crass as heck yet lots of fun. Hedda Lettuce meets Varla Jean with a sprinkling of Pearlene.

After the show it was “Vault at Large at The Paramount.” I donned my leather drag once again and went out for fun. The music was good, men were cute and a fun night was had. A few moments at Spiritus afterwards was a nice way to end the night.

Monday night I went to Showgirls with John, Mark and Rich. We got in line too late and had to sit towards the rear which blocked some of our view. But the show was fun nonetheless. Next week is the last Showgirls of the season. It seems as if I just wrote about the first one.

Next week, I’ll talk about some news in town. “Swim for Life” is happening next Saturday. This is yet another great fundraiser for our local help organizations. The events, shows and parties will slowly stop now that summer has gone.

What an amazing summer this has been and there is definitely some sadness at seeing it go.

Thanks for reading and please send me an email if there is anything you’d like me to discuss or if you have feedback on any entry. mike.dubour@verizon.net

Carnival. Crazy. Crazed.

2008-08-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

If the summer season here in Ptown was a sinking ship, then the stern would be high in the air. And that faint moment before she starts to slide under the water, that short delay, is Carnival week. Drag bingo, drag brunch, opening ceremonies, parties and of course, the parade, have made this past week one energetic ball of social frenzy. Pandemonium defined last week as the town was invaded by cowboys and scantly clad Indians.

The week started with my Rodeo at The Raised Ranch on Sunday. Thanks to everyone again, for making it a special and successful event. That evening the kickoff party for Carnival was at The Boatslip. It was OK. Lea Delaria hosted, the sound system was screwed up and I left early. However, I did meet many nice cowboys. I felt as if I were back in Phoenix.

Tuesday night was “Classical Varla” at the UU Church. It was a sold out crowd and we had a front row seat for the entire program. Varla donated all the proceeds of the show to The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod. It was a wonderful evening. After the show, I stopped by Ross’s Grill for a special VIP cocktail reception. It was nice to meet the singers.

Wednesday, Luis came for a long weekend. We had a quiet night in preparation for the days ahead.

Thursday was full of parade fun. I watched the parade from a party on a balcony overlooking Commercial Street in the west end. The afternoon started with a party at Forbidden Fruit. A store owned by Todd and Eric. A wild time by everyone was had there.

After the parade Luis and I went to Tea dance. It was packed but a lot of fun. The dance floor was impenetrable.

Friday night Miss Coco Peru changed my life. I jest of course, but, this was by far, the best show I’ve ever seen in Provincetown. I’m a huge Dina Martina and Varla fan, but this was even better than them. I may even have to put her past Linda Eder performing at town hall six years ago. I laughed the whole time… from when she opened the show with, “Have you ever woke up in the morning….looked around… and said….. oh fuck? To her singing The Little Mermaid song and inserting her trademark line from the movie “Trick” “It burns.” Anyhow, I have new favorite and can’t say enough. Check her out. She sold out the UU church.

Saturday night, Luis and I had yummy lasagna at Kaitlin Colombo’s house. Her dad prepared lasagna and chocolate dipped strawberries. How good is that?

Sunday was an annual ice cream social, a client appreciation party for work. It was a fun event with tons of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. Afterwards, my friend Brian and I hit The Porch bar and I made a new friend from Milwaukee.

I’m heading to Nantucket this week for two days. What a juxtapositional experience that will be.

Play it safe, see ya next week.

The Summer is Slowly Slipping Away

2008-08-18T14:28:00.000-07:00

The summer is slowly slipping away. Less than two weeks left of fun and crowds. I am completely exhausted for one, after having experienced a summer of grabbing the majority of what Ptown has to offer from a single gay man’s point of view. I’ll need the fall to recover from shows, events, restaurants, parties, men and more!

I eased back into the work week with the grace of a gazelle falling off a cliff.
Taking an unplugged vacation for one week proved to be relaxing but stressful upon re-entry.

This week I got back in the routine of work, gym and home. Of course, I left room for fun. Besides last minute planning for my first fundraiser, Rodeo at The Raised Ranch, a benefit for The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod, a few of us took in a show over this past weekend.

Let me tell you about the fundraiser first. It was a success and close to 40 people attended this two hour event to raise money for The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod which took place at my house. The weather was perfect.

The food was purchased and prepared by my friend Brian Bator, who I had not seen since our new year’s trip to Atlanta! He came down from Boston for the good cause. Summer rolls, crab cakes, cucumber nibbles, vegetarian sausage and homemade salsa were consumed by the attendees and delicious!

Matt, from the erotic fashion show a few months back, stood by and let himself be lassoed for $1.00 per try. He wore nothing but a skimpy bathing suit, cowboy hat and seductive smile. If you roped him, ya got a prize from a grab bag. This raised extra cash. Adult film star Spencer Quest was on hand to work the crowd with handshakes and smiles.

Around 4PM, the entertainment started. As peeps visited the open wine and beer bar, filled up on beverages of choice, they settled in chairs and on the rock wall. I emceed the event which went as smooth as butter!

Michael Burke, the Associate Director of The AIDS Support Group gave a brief speech.

Bruce, an individual living with HIV and AIDS gave a testimonial to the experience of living with the disease…. It put a face to the event and helped us raise more money by passing a cowboy hat.

Afterwards, Buddy Starr, sang two songs for us, one country and one from my favorite musical Mame. Of course the words were changed in both songs to reflect a rodeo and the gay life. His act was very enjoyable mixed with a bit of comedy and some tap dancing!

Then Kaitlin Colombo, star of E-Entertainment and “Last Comic Standing” took the stage with her brand of humor. The laughter started immediately and she kept the momentum going with one joke after another. “A relentless onslaught of comedy” that’s my quote. She seemed so innocent at first in her playful red dress and cowboy boots….but we all had to hold onto our cowboy hats as we were knee deep in smiles before we knew it.

Ending the afternoon, local singer and songwriter, Anne Stott, performed four songs for us with her acoustic guitar. Her melodic voice and strumming were a perfect compliment to the somber meaning behind the event. She ended with Janis Joplin’s “Mercedes Benz”… a sing a long that most knew. She sold her cd’s and donated the proceeds to The AIDS Support Group.

I thanked everyone for coming after Anne performed and the event ended. It was a huge success for the AIDS Support Group as we raised a lot of cash. I think there may be one next year. If you want to donate this year, you still can, just send me an email and I’ll tell you where to send the check.

Saturday night, Luis, John, Brian and I went to see Lainie Kazan at the Vixen Nightclub. She performed for an hour and half. Her singing was completely awesome. The performance was a mix of stories, comedy and singing. She had broken her hip a few weeks back and performed from a wheelchair. After John and Brian had Lainie sign their newly purchased cd’s, we went home where Luis prepared an eggplant lasagna from scratch….absolutely delish.

Sunday night, after cleaning up from the fundraiser, Brian, Rich and I went to the opening party for Carnival at the Boatslip. Lea Delaria emceed the event. There was an automated horse, lots of entertainment and plenty to look at. I left at 11:30…. had to work the next day, but the event went until 1AM.

So Carnival has started with its theme of Wild Wild West.…. Next week I’ll write about Classical Varla, the parade and numerous parties that will happen.

In the meantime, if you’d like to send in a photo, comment or anything else pertaining to Ptown… Email me at mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Have a fun week, thanks for reading and play it safe!

Getting Away From It All

2008-08-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I had to get away from it all. This being my first summer being single in Provincetown has taken its toll. I escaped to the quiet seclusion of Western Mass. Westhampton, to be exact and a week long vacation on Pine Island Lake. Kayaking, swimming and row boating filled the days and dining in Northampton eateries and movies filled the nights. I was on Golden Pond and catching up with family and childhood friends and renewing a friendship with my friend Tony.

I’ll write about Provincetown next week as it will be Carnival week. Wild west is the theme and this town will be no doubt filled with cowboys and Indians. Remember the Rodeo at the Raised Ranch fundraiser is this weekend. You are invited … read and download the invite at my site. Next week I’ll be back and tell you how it went. If you want to come just send me an email. Anne Stott will provide the music, Kaitlin Colombo and Buddy Star will perform comedy, porn star Spencer Quest will make an appearance, there will be tarot card reader and a hot lil cowboy named Matt will be available for lassoing (scroll back a few blogs to see him modeling erotic clothes in the June 9th blog entry) It promises to be a fun time for a good cause.

I capped off my vacation by spending a day in Wellfleet at The Wildlife Sanctuary. How absolutely beautiful! Trails that wind along the ocean, through woods, along a pond and more. The scenery is spectacular and worth the $5.00 donation.

On Sunday, Luiz and I went to the Flea Market in Wellfleet. What a huge event. Not really my cup of tea but if you like deals and used items for purchase, this may be your thing.

Have a good week. Email me at mike.dubour@verizon.net if you would like to post anything or have any input.

Bye Family Week, Hello Vacation

2008-08-04T06:35:00.000-07:00

NOTE: Remember, I'm hosting my first-ever fund raiser on August 17th in Provincetown. It is to benefit The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod, for which I am a Board Member. $50 per head. $90 per couple. You are invited … read and download the invite at my site.

Okay, now to this week's blog entry, "Bye Family Week, Hello Vacation" ...

Family Week has ended! While I was shopping at Bravo with Rich for playful new shirts, we observed two daddies and their Asian daughter. It was the first Sunday of Family Week. They were all smiles, stroller nice and neatly organized, diapers neatly piled, ready for deployment, and blanket smartly folded on the stroller roof. I just had to say “hello” as one of the daddies was very attractive and the daughter was like a doll.

Well, flash ahead to Saturday morning. I saw the same couple while waiting in line (out to the street mind you) for my morning coffee at Joe. Needless to say, I tried to avoid eye contact as they lumbered by, the cute daddy far ahead with the stroller…diapers spilling out with wipes in tow, the blanket hanging over the edge and dragging on the street, a scowl on his face. The other daddy trudged behind, pulling the little girl, tripping on the brick sidewalk and looking as if he’d rather be at a fabulous morning brunch affair.

This seemed to be the theme as Family Week wore on and the combination of hot weather and unruly children created an orchestra of chaos.

There were, to be fair, plenty of calmer families who took advantage of the workshops, play groups and networking events. I am an avid supporter of Family Week for the diversity of our community.

I went to The Provincetown Inn for a swim on my day off, between chores, and ran into my friends Pam and Judy. These legendary ladies have been coming to Provincetown since the 1950’s and have so much knowledge about the town and its evolution. Between the jumping, splashing and yelling of the children we had a pleasant conversation about Judy Garland, Wayland Flowers, Paul Lynde and other luminaries who they partied with in the day, here in Provincetown. Apparently, before Tea Dance was born, the after beach spot was The Moors Restaurant for an event called Sing A Long. Also, Paul Lynde and Wayland Flowers could be found at The Crown and Anchor bar. How fun.

Luiz is back for a visit before I head off to my summer vacation in Western Massachusetts. I’m off to a lake house in Westhampton, just outside of Northampton, for seclusion and regeneration. I’ll also be catching up with childhood friends and family.

Thursday night Luiz, David, Brian, Rich, Michael and a Dutch guy whose name I forgot, dined at Frappo. We ate outside, listened to Miss Richfield bark for her show and people watched. What a fun place. Afterwards we went to see Hedda Lettuce, the last of the queens to see. If you come to town be sure to check her out if you like adult themed humor. Her style is in line with “ole” school queens…she picks on the audience, sings her own songs and all mixed together with a twist of vile, stinging, adult comedy. Check her out, but be prepared for crassness…this is after all her signature but you shouldn’t be scared away.

Friday was spent at The Porch Bar. While conversing with friends a glamorous drag queen tapped my shoulder and said “hello Michael in a raspy sexy voice.” I was lost for words as I didn’t know her name. But she knew me! After disclosing that she was a real estate client we had a good laugh. I thought to myself while sipping my beverage…”only in Provincetown can I be in a circle of conversation that includes close friends, a New York City Producer, Stand Up Comedian, drag queen and my straight nephew.” What a chuckle.

Check in next week. In the meantime check out Kaitlin Colombo’s new blog appearing on Edge.com (click here)

I’m off to vacation. Email me at mike.dubour@verizon.net if you would like to post anything or have any input.

It's Family Week

2008-07-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

I am hosting a fund raiser. My first ever!. August 17th in Provincetown. It is to benefit The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod of which I am a Board Member. $50 per head. $90 per couple. You are invited … read and download the invite at my site. There is an RSVP required. If you can’t make it, please send in a donation. Its amazing how many gay men in their early 20’s are now being diagnosed with HIV and even more alarming…men in their late 30’s and 40’s. We need to increase awareness and education, so please, at least send a donation. If you can’t make it to the event, send in what you can. Ok, that’s my plug ... but very important. It is still an issue…borderline revived crisis.

Provincetown, Provincetown, Provincetown. This is the land of one week affairs, men from all over the world and long distance relationships. It’s also family week and sure as there is sand on the beach, strollers have invaded Commercial Street. The diversity of our community is welcoming though and I for one, like the sound of kids crying and parents’ punishing ... as long as I’m not involved and its not in close proximity. The Splash Event didn’t seem to be a big smash, however, the verdict is still out. It was its first year and we’ll see how it grows. There seemed to be more attractive men in town last week then anything else.

It was by far an interesting week. After a fun Sunday evening with John in Hyannis for Linda Eder and Steve Tyrell, and a full workday on Monday, I headed to East Boston to visit Luiz. I haven’t left the Cape since late March so it was a bit weird leaving the island ... but necessary for the sanity. Monday night Luiz prepared a birthday dinner for his friend Vanderlei. Tuesday was a spent working from Luiz’s East Boston loft. We went to see Dark Knight after he got out of work and then to the North End of Boston for dinner. Here’s the culture shock. Holding hands with a man in Boston still gets stares and finger pointing. It’s a strong reminder to me that once I leave Provincetown it’s an entirely different world. Wednesday we checked out the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and Museum of Fine Arts. I used to work in The Fenway and grew a bit nostalgic for the past, but that passed quickly. Thursday I took the 9AM ferry back to Ptown. I had to run to the train from his loft in the morning in order to catch the ferry. Someone I once knew wrote a song about that and I thought how odd it is that people come in and out of our lives. What a weird reminder. But taking the Blue Line (subway) during rush hour was a little too strong a reminder of my corporate days in Boston and frequent trips to New York last year. I was on the train with my bright blue suitcase, flip flops and Ptown attire surrounded by glum faced commuters in corporate drag. Once I boarded the boat and we lost sight of land I shook off the stuffy energy and was relieved to know that home was just a bay away. I think I’ve become a gay Jimmy Buffett ... there’s a gig for me.

I contracted a summer cold while in Boston and was miserable for a few days while working. No energy for Tea Dance or too much else. I did however, run into many people from my past. Friends from long ago who were here for their week long vacations. Seeing most of them before I went to Boston, they were happy to be here….ecstatic. Then I saw them a week later at the Porch Bar, Friday night with long faces. Drunk and sad at the fact that it was their last chance to grab some fun before heading back to the drudgery of everyday life. Sorry guys, but I’m sure glad I’m out of it.

Enough idle chatter ... here’s what’s going on in town.

Sewer issues in the west end, north of Bradford Street on and around Snows Lane are having residents seeing red. Initial plans for the sewer expansion have become complicated due to the need for special pumps at a not so special cost to homeowners.

There have been graffiti artists on the run. He or she has been tagging buildings and cars throughout Ptown for the past few months. Police have arrested four people in the defacement and expect more to come.

A number of people have been fined for being nude on the beach. Taking the suit off will leave you with a $75 fine if caught. Be careful! The old “look around and make sure there is no ranger” doesn’t work anymore. Rangers look from a distance with binoculars and get you on the way out! You may want to use more than sun block to cover those delicate areas.

Well, that’s it for this week. Thanks for reading and if you’d like me to post anything or if you have a comment, please email me at mike.dubour@verizon.net

We changed our "Table for Three" night to Sunday. This week, Rich, Mike, John and I ate at my favorite, Fanizzi's in the east end (click here). I loved my meal, but unfortunately this wasn't unanimous.

From Bears, to Boston and Beyond

2008-07-21T17:36:00.000-07:00

I’m sitting on the fast ferry right now heading to Boston for my weekend. The boat has had a malfunction and blew a coil, thus we are cruising at not so fast speed. At least it gives me time to catch up with you.

Well, the Bears have left Provincetown. After a week of big hairy bellies and backs, Commercial Street has returned to gay boys and girls bopping about. Restaurants and retail report to me that bears buy and last week was no exception. Strong reported revenues for both sections of our little economy.

For me it was just another summer week. The real estate market has done well and continues to stay busy even though the national trend is scary. Read my real estate blog for more on that. My routine of coffee at Joe in the morning and gym in the evening after work is chugging along.

Luiz came to visit me from Boston. He arrived Thursday evening on the ferry just as John and I finished dinner at The Caribbean Café. See his write up on this week’s "Table for Three".

Thursday night was spent walking Commercial Street and relaxing in the delicious weather we’ve been having. Did someone say “gelato” seems to be the theme of these summer evenings. Ok…check out these spots for the best cream in town. If gelato or sorbet is your thing, the Aquarium Mall’s gelato store is the place to be. Most of it is homemade. For ice cream you can’t beat a sundae at Lewis Brothers on the corner of Commercial and Standish. This is where the dancing and spinning cop directs traffic. Lewis Brothers has homemade ice cream and addictive hot fudge that is made fresh every other day. The Jamaican ladies that serve up the sweetness seem ornery at first…however, jab back at them and you’ll get a smile. Twisted Sister located just next to the Portuguese Bakery serves up ice cream until 2AM!!! Homemade by our lesbian sisters daily. Two more parlors catch my taste buds with their product …. Ben and Jerry’s is the old standby located in the center of town near town hall. Also, Spiritus doesn’t only serve up pizza to hungry drunk partygoers. Check out the back counter. Frankie may be there serving up a variety of name brand ice creams (Hagen Daz, Emack and Bolio etc).

A new place that Mark, Rich, Chad and I dined at was the new restaurant where the Euro Café used to be. They serve it all. Thai, pizza and sushi. It’s not an official Table for Three yet, but is a bit of gossip. The restaurant will open where the old theatre used to be. It will be a large sushi restaurant. Super high ceilings, potentially live music and dancing. Wow! Year round too! Now we can go out to dinner and dancing in February…lets see how long it lasts..Hopefully awhile. We’ll hit it on table for three and let you know how it was.

Friday, Luiz and I went back to the Provincetown Inn and relaxed by the pool for the day. We swam in the warm west end waters…Ok…. I carried him to the water and threw him in….gently…of course.

Friday night we all skipped the normal Porch Bar routine. In all honesty, its too crowded for me these days. If you’re looking for a bedmate or to socialize it will do the job. We may skip this week too as it is unanimous with the crew. Saturday was fun. Luiz cooked an authentic Brazilian meal. How talented. It was very good. We chased our dinners with a peach pie from Connie’s Bakery. All good.

Sunday, I bid a farewell to Luiz and waved as he steamed away on the ferry. Sunday night John and I took a trip to Hyannis to check out Linda Eder and Steve Tyrell at the Cape Cod Melody Tent. We ate tapas at Embargo on Main Street Hyannis. The food was awesome. The show was good. Steve Tyrell, who I had never heard of, was quite entertaining. A one hour set. Linda, on the other hand, although I love her dearly, only performed six songs. Her voice was fierce and on key. Very powerful… but only six songs….? She left her “clash of subculture” audience of gay boys and white Republicans wanting more. But Linda will not do the fake off stage encore and when she left the stage, house lights went up much to our disappointment. I last saw her in New York at Feinstein’s late last summer. Dinner and a show, intimate venue. It was wonderful.

Its lesbian week this week. A good week to skedaddle. “Splash” as it is called. I wonder how it will go over. Rosie O’Donnell docked her massive cruise ship in the bay on Friday and cruisers came to shore to spend money here. Yay.

Ok, I’ll wrap up this week. I’m just outside of Boston and Luiz will be meeting me on the pier.

I have to “shout out” to some readers this week. Thanks for reading btw.

T from Boston wants to compliment me on my weight loss. He’s been following the blog and wants to acknowledge the loss just from the pics. Lol. Thanks. Its amazing what a diet of water and a tic tac will do. A sugar free tic tac of course.

N from Fort Lauderdale found me after ten years. Thanks for emailing me. Come visit.

JS from the South End of Boston and his crew have been faithfully reading the blog weekly at work and anticipating their vacation here. Thanks.

If you’re reading and want to drop me line, please do so. Its nice to receive an email so just click mike.dubour@verizon.net

Next week is family week. Wear closed toed and closed heeled shoes if walking Commercial Street or a stroller will nip you. Have great week and play it safe.

The Week With No Theme

2008-07-14T16:39:00.000-07:00

The week with no theme. That’s what last week was. Usually, the week following the Fourth of July is Bear Week. This year, however, it had no theme. We are however, right in the middle of Bear Week. It’s a Bear Jamboree and an abbreviated blog entry.

The week started great on Sunday evening. A bonfire on Race Point Beach with some friends. I met Luiz at the fire. A really nice guy from Boston.

On Monday, Duncan, Luiz, Chris, Mark and I went to Showgirls. It was probably the best yet this summer.

The week itself was pretty uneventful. John, Mark, Luiz and I ate at Cafe Heaven for "Table for Three." It was pretty good. Click to read the review.

Tuesday, Duncan, Luiz and I walked Commercial Street at night. We ate Gelato at the Aquarium Mall and caught a snippet of the old movie “Babarella” which was projected on the wall out by the water where the picnic tables are.

Friday, Luiz and I sat by the pool at The Crown and Anchor and watched as the Bears slowly bounded in.

Sunday of this week, Mark and I went to see “The Atomic Bombshells” at The Vixen. Good show . Burlesque theatre with Pearlene as theHostess. She picked on Mark the entire time.

That’s really it for this week….a short entry.

Next week Luiz comes back for a visit from Boston.

Circuit Boys Come…and Go

2008-07-07T14:43:00.000-07:00

The climax of the summer has come and gone! The Fourth of July week was filled with beautiful men and boys, all of whom were very friendly.

The drivers were on crack! One car flew past me Monday night as I was driving up Bradford Street by Farland. This car must have been going about 60mph and swerving! He almost hit us head on. Then there was the redneck gay boy speeding down Route 6 in his bright red pick up with New York plates.…probably going 100! And finally, a lady that pulled out of Telegraph Hill without stopping! I came within inches of hitting her...with my car. Luckily, I wasn’t speeding.

Wednesday, I went to an intimate fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee and met Howard Dean. What a nice guy, pretty attractive in person and has the brightest blue piercing eyes. I asked him some questions about Hillary and Obama and was pretty much pleased with his answers. In my opinion it’s still going to be a tough election.

That night we checked out my friend and comic Kaitlin Colombo’s new comedy show called “Make me Laugh Bitch!” It’s a Showgirls type program at The Crown and Anchor. Aspiring comics get one and a half minutes to perform and the winner gets $75. I went to support her and found myself doing a comedy routine. This was completely unplanned. I had never done stand up before and was terrified….however, I came in second place! It was a close second and the money was almost split between me and the winner. The house couldn’t divide the prize money so I came in second…what an experience!

On the Fourth of July, I drove my car in the parade down Commercial Street. We dolled it up with flags and banners. We represented WOMR radio. There were five of us all together and we came in third place for best float. Can you imagine?! We were handed a trophy as we passed the judges stand in front of town hall.

In the evening we went to a BBQ at my friend Tom’s house with the usual cast of characters. Bernard and Scott were in from New York with three of their friends. I met more guys from New York and D.C at the party. The fireworks were great for our seaside hamlet. We viewed them from the rooftop deck of Tom’s condo mate. Afterwards, we walked Commercial Street and the town was abuzz. I ended my night at The Porch Bar.

I picked up my friend Duncan at the ferry Saturday and the line of boys waiting to get on the boat stretched down past the whale watch boats. Their sad expressions made me thankful that I didn’t have to leave!

Rumors are that Miss Coco Peru is coming to Ptown in August and performing at the UU. You know her, the drag queen from the movie “Trick” and “Girls will be Girls.”

I also want to check out Hedda Lettuce. She’s back in town at the UU. There’s a new queen on the scene…. Jackie Beat.…getting great reviews. I’ll check her out and tell you about it.

"Table for Three" visited Enzo Thursday night. Mark, Rich, John, Troy, Eric and myself had a decent meal there while the boys traipsed by. How many monuments? Check out John’s review.

Sunday was pretty wild. We hit Tea Dance at The Boatslip…mixed and mingled a bit and then it was shirts off and dancing right in the middle of some lingering hot gym boys…who were indeed pretty friendly on the dance floor. Friends from Long Island and Boston joined my crew and Mary Alice dished out some intense music. Afterwards, we camped out at Race Point Beach for a bonfire. The only thing missing was a harmonica and guitar, but the crescent moon over the Atlantic made up for it.

I’ll catch you next week. Email me at mike.dubour@verizon.net if you have anything you’d like to add.

Pia Interviews: Geno and Chris

2008-06-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

The last week of June ended with great weather, fun company and the invasion of pretty circuit boys to Provincetown. Boats are in the bay and the weather is beautiful. This week I let Pia interview Geno and Chris. Next week I’ll write about the 4th of July week, a fundraiser with Howard Dean and fun in ptown!) Email me your input at mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Pia: Now that your vacation has come to an end, would you like to recap your stay with me…as I watch you pack?

Geno and Chris: Sure. Just don’t climb in the suitcase and pee on our clothes like you did to Jessica.

Pia: I’ll sit right here on the bed and take notes. So take me through your weeklong experience in Provincetown.

Geno and Chris: Will do. We arrived Monday and Mike took us to Showgirls. This was addressed in last week’s blog. The show was unlike anything we saw before.

Tuesday we walked Commercial Street with Mike, your daddy, during the day. What a town. My family used to own a house right on Commercial Street…years ago. I’m familiar with ptown and have lots of fond memories here. The streets were full and all businesses open. The mansion across from The Boatslip looks great. I haven’t seen it since it has been renovated.

Pia: So what did you do Tuesday night?

Geno and Chris: Mike took us to see “Whizzin” a spoof of “The Wizard of Oz.” I met Mike’s friends John from Provincetown, Frank from Boston and Scott and Bernard from New York. We had great seats and the play was absolutely hilarious. Anyone reading this should check it out. It only runs on Tuesday nights all summer.

Wednesday was low key. We went to Race Point Beach with your daddy’s friend Bill and had a BBQ afterwards. Then we watched a movie. It was a nice evening at home.

Pia: It was. I spent most of my time on your lap Geno…remember?

Geno: Yep. Anyhow, Thursday was another beach day. The weather was gorgeous. We participated in "Table for Three" with John and ate at Tips for Tops’n. This was great tasting Portuguese food in honor of the Portuguese Festival which was in town.

Friday was a socializing night. We walked Commercial Street, went to The Porch Bar at the Gifford House. It was packed.

Saturday night a group of us dined at The Lobster Pot. My sister and her husband were in town. It was good. Then we saw Varla Jean. What a fun show. Afterwards, we went to the Paramount and Wave bar.Not much energy there so we went to The Macho Bar at the A-House. Not your daddy’s scene so we went dancing at The A-House. Great energy and music! We all gathered at Spiritus afterwards and met some of your daddy’s friends. As 1:00am approached, the drunks were stumbling to get pizza. A few fell off the sidewalk… a wonderful show to end the night.

Sunday was a lazy day by the pool at The Provincetown Inn. Volleyball in the pool, walks along the breakwater and lounging while catching up on town gossip was fun. The Blessing of the Fleet was as traditional as ever, the drum corps that performed Saturday night was amazing! The singers and bands were a lot of fun. The parade which took place on Saturday was festive yet short. After we left the pool, we hit tea dance.

Pia: Tea Dance? How were the circuit boys?

Geno and Chris: Contrary to 4th weeks of the past, the boys were really friendly and full of smiles. Their bodies were decent but not the rigid, stone cut bods of years past. It seems as though this segment of the gay community is keeping it real. Nonetheless the guys were hot.

Sunday night was a toss up between Jimmy James at The Post Office and Dina Martina. We needed a good comedy show to distract us from the sad feeling of leaving, so despite Jimmy’s talent, we snapped a photo with “her” and headed to Dina Martina. Your daddy felt it was a good way to top off a wonderful week. Both Chris and your daddy were pulled up on stage. We walked away with some great stuff…. Jelly bean Haggis, Sigmund Freud lollipop, Three’s Company trading cards, apple flavored tape worm and lip balm in a toilet.

So the shows, the food and the weather made it a perfect vacation.

Well that’s it. The Fourth of July boys are here! The town is packed with shirtless guys.. and we’re leaving.

Pia: Thanks for the interview.

Geno and Chris: Thanks for peeing on the bed.

My Birthday

2008-06-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

My birthday week came and went without much fanfare. Or maybe the older I get the fanfare just doesn’t matter. I got free ice cream, free dinners and a gift certificate to a spa in Northampton. I’ll be spending my summer vacation in a lake house away from the chaos of Ptown, and Brad surprised me with a day at the local posh spa.

It’s late as I write this and I just crawled in the door from another Showgirls. My friend Geno (who knew me when I dated women…way back) is here with his partner Chris. They just arrived today and of course, for a true Provincetown welcome, as I did with Jess, we went to see Showgirls. We had dinner at Spiritus, a couple of slices, complimented by Frankie’s smile. We walked to the pier where Geno pointed out a place where young Portuguese boys used to dive off the dock for money...years ago.

This past weekend I saw the final of the big three…Dina Martina! Her show was “off the charts” this year and more bizarre than ever. I sensed a lot of pain in the program… so did the group I was with. In any event, check out her show at The Crown and Anchor. She has taken it to a new level. I was lucky enough to get a gift out of her gift bag. She handed me a yodeling pickle. It is quite cool. I’m holding the pickle in the pic of Dina and I. The other two, Varla and Miss Richfield are definitely worth checking out as well. However, in my opinion if one must be chosen…its Varla.

Anyhow, Provincetown has now blossomed. Next week the circuit boys hit the streets. Drugs, dancing and sex will define the town. Head for the hills, or Bayberry Avenue and Nelson Avenue. This is the one week where pumping bass is heard non-stop all along Commercial Street, from The Mews to The Red Inn.

The Provincetown Film Festival came and went this past week. I was working and unfortunately did not get to see any movies. However, Madonna made her directorial debut and I heard it the film was good. Another one to look for is “Phoebe in Wonderland.” Besides all that, personally, I think the festival has grown too big for our little hamlet. It is plagued by financial issues and rumors are that it won’t be around next year. I think if it returns to a small time film festival that screens independent gay and lesbian films, than success will return. We had folks who were coordinating the festival running around with walkie-talkies, yelling, shouting and looking mighty important. Please.

Last week my friend Darren had his birthday party at Enzo’s. His superhero party was lots of fun. Here are some pics for it.

I just got a radio slot at WOMR. Every second Tuesday at 8PM for one hour, I get to be live on air. Check it out if you get a chance. WOMR streams. I felt the need to do something live again, in broadcasting, but a small commitment is all I can handle right now and this fits the bill perfectly.

I haven’t been able to join "Table for Three" in two weeks, but will be dining out with John, Geno and Chris this Thursday at Edwige at Night. It’s been awhile since I’ve been there for dinner. The last time was with a very special person. The food was good and I guess John had a similar experience.

That’s it for this week. Play it safe, plan a trip here and have fun in life. Please send an email to mike.dubour@verizon.net for blog entry or feedback.

I Love June in Provincetown

2008-06-16T08:14:00.000-07:00

I love June in Provincetown. The weather has been unreal! We’ve been hit with 80 degree days…perfect for the beach. The massive summer crowds have yet to descend, and retail business is good!

Jessica and Quinn have left after a fun filled ten day visit. Pia and I have the bed back to ourselves, but I strangely miss waking up to a large boxer rolling on his back and trying to lick my face with his slimy tongue. Quinn loves the icky lickies.

Jessica and I took Pia and Quinn back to the beach for more fun. Early mornings at Herring Cove are relaxing and a great way to start your day.

We went to Tea Dance at the Boatslip and decided it wasn’t worth it. I think it’s a little too early in the season. So we left and met up with Guy and Louise, owners of The Black Pearl Inn, for free movie night at The Cape End Inn.

Jessica and I were in the mood for some new comedy and checked out Adam Sandler’s new movie, “Don’t Mess with the Zohan." Funny!

Brad took me out to a great restaurant, ABBA in Orleans, for my birthday. The food was absolutely delicious and service impeccable. It was a combination of Israeli/Thai cuisine. Check it out...worth the drive from Ptown.

I ran a tag sale and unloaded a lot of stuff over the weekend. It’s an effort to wrap up a chapter of my life that was put on hold for a couple years. With no distractions of heart or head, its time to unload, clean house and move forward. Anyhow, what I didn’t sell will be donated to the thrift shop at The Methodist Church.

My roommate, Kristine and I held our first “Cozy Ladies Luncheon” at Patio. Mark, Jessica, Kristine and I sat outside, watched the crowd and shared in gossip.

I went to my friend Darren’s birthday party at Enzo’s Saturday night. This “themed” b-day bash has become a staple for the past seven years in Ptown. A “superhero party.” It was a lot of fun and I’ll provide pics next week.

I also got behind the mic again at WOMR. I haven’t announced for a live program in close to two years. It was nice getting back in the DJ seat, playing some tunes and reading the news.

On Sunday, I went to see The Ride by Eric Lane at The Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theatre with friends John and Jay. It was performed at The Harbor Stage by the water, a quaint little theatre. It is a wonderfully written play and the actors were flawless. At one point during the play the script called for one of the actresses to say, “That’s annoying”… she did and at that instant someone’s cell phone rang in the audience. She looked out and repeated her line…”That’s really annoying” and the other actors improvised and said “truly annoying” and the play went on without error.

It’s amazing how Wellfleet has truly evolved into a little Cape Broadway of sorts. Most of the actors are from New York…or heading there. That combined with performances in Truro and Provincetown provides any theatre enthusiast with plenty of productions to see (and not just drag shows). It will be a great summer and fall for the arts.

Next week my long time friend Geno and his partner Chris come for a visit for 7 days.

Check out this week’s "Table for Three" as John visits Sal’s in the west end.

I celebrate my birthday this week and look ahead to a fun summer and truly enjoying this absolutely beautiful community.

Have a fun week and please email me at mike.dubour@verizon.net for kudos, ideas or feedback of any kind.

Pia Interviews Jessica

2008-06-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

Jessica and her boxer Quinn are visiting Provincetown for a ten day stretch from their nine hour drive from Pennsylvania and so far she has hit the town running. While Jess was taking Pia out for a poopy, Pia had the chance to get her thoughts about the past week.

Pia: Hi and welcome to Provincetown. Thanks for taking the time to take me outside.

Jessica: Thank you for vomiting on my side of the bed.

Pia: Sorry about that, I got into something I shouldn’t have. Anyhow, tell me about your trip so far. What have you done?

Jessica: God what haven’t I done? Let’s start when I arrived Monday. We went to Showgirls where I watched in amazement at the most bizarre show I’ve EVER seen. My mouth was agape for this crazy Dina Martina character. Tuesday we took Quinn to the beach for the first time. He kept trying to drink the ocean.

Pia: I like my cousin Quinn except when he tries to sit on my daddy’s lap when I’m there. I snap at him.

Jessica: I know and if you ever try to bite him again I will drop kick you across the room.

Pia: Oh my. Anyhow, what else did you do?

Jessica: We got ice cream at Lewis Brothers…. Wednesday we started the day off with Yoga.

Pia: I’ve always liked the idea of spending an hour stretching.

Jessica: Then you would have loved this place. It was right down the road from home. Your daddy and I had the place to ourselves with the instructor. Then we went to Mystik Moon and got our fortunes told by Moses. He was dead on for both of us.

Pia: Is there more food in my future?

Jessica: This is about me, not you. Anyhow we rented two movies and spent the day at home. Thursday we ate dinner at Karoo Café as part of Night at the Chef’s Table a fundraiser for the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod. It is one of the top TWO places I’ve ever eaten at. Friday, I went to Yoga again. Then your daddy, Uncle Mark and I ate at Fortune Cookie in the Aquarium Mall. We went to Ben and Jerry’s and got more ice cream.

Pia: It seems as though you eat a lot of ice cream.

Jessica: Only when your dad forces it down my throat…wink, wink, nudge, nudge…there seems to be an ice cream store on every corner in this town. Saturday I went jogging in the National Seashore, Province Lands. It was beautiful. Then your daddy and some friends over for a BBQ. We went to see Varla Jean, an Erotic film festival and an erotic fashion show.

Pia: How was Varla Jean?

Jessica: I have a serious crush on a drag queen. I’m concerned for my gender attractivity.

Pia: And how does that make you feel?

Jessica: Frightened!

Pia: How were the erotic events?

Jessica: Hot. Girls and guys modeled some sexy outfits. The guys modeled condoms, fully erect, at the end of the show. It was mixed straight, lesbian and gay. Wow.

Pia: How would you sum up Provincetown?

Jessica: I’m gayed out but enjoying myself thoroughly. Now can you please take your poopy so we can go back inside?

Lazy Days of June

2008-06-02T08:11:00.000-07:00

Another week has come and gone. The lazy weeks of June, as they are called are moving along. Memorial Day was the big start and now it quiets down for the next three weeks before the rush of July and August.

Farmer’s Market has returned for the season. This delightful open air market is located on Ryder Street (next to town hall) The market is open each Saturday from now until Oct. 26 from 11 AM until 4ish. Cape Cod grocers offer a variety of produce and other locally made products. If you get there early enough, you may be able to see local chef’s shopping for dinner specials.

Thursday night, our dinner club consisting of John, Scott, Marcin and I, ate at the new Victors in the west end. The experience was lovely. Click at the end of this week’s blog to read John’s review, "Table for Three." Victors (victorsptown.com) is working on a website and I’ll provide the link once complete.

This week, I went to the 10th Annual Spring Playwrights’ Festival in Provincetown at the Provincetown Theatre. My friend George Sauer wrote a play, Small Window, that was accepted in the festival. It was produced as part of Six Plays in 60+ Minutes. Over 160 plays were submitted and 40 final plays read blindly by the judging panel. Only six plays were approved for performance.

John, Rich, Mark, Marky, Fred, Guy, Louis and I dined at Way Downtown Saturday night before the plays. Reviews of the meals were mixed but I enjoyed mine. Service was good.

All six plays were a delight and the event was overall enjoyable. Local actors did a great job bringing the characters to life in each play. Other plays performed: Propositions by Jerry Thompson, Show Me Yours by Meryl Cohn , Canyon’s Edge by Barbara Lindsay, Birthday Wishes by John Kern and The Date by Joan Lipkin.

The AIDS Support Group hosted a tag sale at its 96 Bradford location on Saturday. They sold the leftover inventory from Cottage the retail store that closed last year.

The bizarre yet wonderful Dina Martina made her review this past weekend. I’ll be seeing her show soon, but not yet. She is at The Crown and Anchor and I wonder how the change in venue works for her.

Other than that not much has happened this week besides the normal…. work, gym home routine.

The town was pretty slow this weekend. Not many folks around. I did happen to connect with two friends from Boston who I had not seen in quite a while. I hope to see more of them this summer.

I’ll be attending another fundraiser for The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod this coming Thursday. Chef’s Table is an event where restaurants cape wide open their doors and donate the cost of dinners to the organization. John, Michael and I will break our routine of working our way east and jump to the Karoo Kafe for Chef’s table. Come back and see how it went. I’ve never been. John and I will also be catching a play at Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theatre. Have a good week and feel free to send me an email at mike.dubour@verizon.net

My Dear Sweet Baby Lesbian Sisters

2008-05-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day has come to an end! The baby lesbians who invaded our lovely hamlet by the bay have now left and are nursing hangovers and tending to their fighting wounds. Commercial Street is being cleaned of paper cups, beer bottles and vomit. Seriously.

I just got home from yet another “Showgirls” and writing this blog for you. In regards to commerce, the business owners I talked to said the weekend went well for them.

The weekend was fun filled and wild with screaming lesbians and something new that I never saw. As throngs of women came to town Thursday afternoon, so did quite a few young gay boys. It was a very interesting mix and the two visiting groups seemed to cohabitate quite nicely. In fact, some of these young boys actually came with their lesbian sisters.

So with the excitement of the Memorial Day Weekend where do I begin? Lets start with Miss Richfield. We saw her Saturday night. This year her show is completely different than the usual. She has incorporated her gift of improvisation into her performance making it fresh and off the cuff. There is some repeat material, as she seems to always inject in the show, but most of it is new. Check her out. It is worth the ticket price.

My friends Laurie and Elaine were in a dreadful car accident heading here Thursday night. They were rear ended on Route 6 by a truck that must have been going close to 100 mph. Thank goodness they are OK. The car is completely totaled.

There was a nice ceremony today in front of town hall. Veterans spoke about those who passed before us. A band played patriotic songs.

Other happenings this weekend include the fact that I decided to delve into the scary subculture world of leather. I’m pretty vanilla and proud of it. However, “nothing ventured nothing gained, as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone,” is my motto for life. So my friend Rich, who is another equal gay conservative decided to try it with me. We went to MG Leather where my friend John hooked us up with some basic leather apparel. Mark guided us along as well so credit must be given.

I sported calf high black lace up leather boots, dark blue jeans, thick black belt, a strap that state troopers wear across their chest (I’m not sure what it is called) and a Tom of Finland t-shirt with a boot print on it. Needless to say I did get plenty of attention at The Paramount Vault at Large (music was freaking awesome! And I think I ended up on the box) then later at Purgatory (not my scene...I left early and went home). Throughout the night I ran into some clients and friends whose mouths dropped to the floor when they saw me. Overall it was pretty exciting. However, I am more of a poster vanilla leather guy than the hard core type.

Food wise… my friend John will be writing the restaurant critiques starting this week. We’re calling it "Table for Three." We hit up the Red Inn. On other nights Rich, Mark and I ate at The Post Office Café ... 5 monuments ...The Burger Queen, which is a burger shack ... 5 monuments. Café Heaven for breakfast ... 5 monuments. Bubulas for lunch ... 5 monuments.

Anyhow… summer has definitely started. The streets returned to a calm this evening shortly before Showgirls. Have a safe week and I’ll catch you later. Please take time this week to pause and remember your loved ones who have passed on before you. If you want to send me and email or wish that I post your response to my blog … email mike.dubour@verizon.net.

Wow, What A Week

2008-05-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

Its Monday at midnight and after working all day (my first appointment was at 8AM! That’s just crazy!), driving down cape to a three hour board meeting for the AIDS Support Group after work, back up to Ptown to walk Pia, then to dinner and the first Showgirls of the season…I’m pooped, but want to write the blog. I hope you don’t mind no pictures.

First of all Showgirls was awesome. Mostly lip synching drag but, Ryan Landry was as smacked as ever. Aphrodite ruled the house with a vicious rendition of a house, disco, gossip tune. The queens were going crazy! But…Steamy Brown won the crown with a rap song, “Cappuccino.” If you don’t know, Steamy Brown is a local cutie smeared in chocolate (naked) topped with marshmallow fluff. Miss Richfield did a little bit from her show as well. Ryan Landry held 10 seconds of silence for “Dixie.” The whole room fell quiet in respect for our fallen friend. Great night, drinks were thrown, all went home with smiles.

News update. Jimmie’s Hideaway was vandalized this past week. Someone opened the grease traps, clogged the sinks and toilets and left the water running. Weird.

But what a week. Provincetown was invaded by single lesbians looking for that right match for Single Women Weekend and attendees to the Cabaret Fest. I wasn’t able to make it to any Cabaret Fest event nor was I able to attend any workshops for single women.

Season is now here. We’ve been flooded by young gay boys in their early 20’s. Pass the vapors….wow…I guess the shortage of visas made American gay boys flock here. Today the Eastern Europeans arrived for the summer. DAMN! They are so cute but mostly straight. Oh…this year Ptown was voted the number one gay travel destination by Out Magazine.

Here’s a restaurant review quickly before I head to bed…

I’ve eaten at Big Daddy’s Burritos yum. 5 monuments easily…

Bernard, Scott and I ate at The Mews Wednesday night. Flawless service by Loic. The apps and main course was absolutely delicious. 5 monuments.

John, Michael and I ate at Ross Grill Thursday and I went back with Rich and Mark on Friday. Flawlessly delicious. Salmon one night, Tuna the next..5 monuments again.

Rob, Mike, Mark Rich and I went to Lorraine’s Saturday night. I hadn’t been there in almost 5 years. We had a waiter who was four days old on the job so I forgive him for learning the ropes. The food was really good. I ordered scallops on rice and must say, they were the most succulent and tasty ones I’ve had so far. Besides the waiter learning his job, I must say it was a good dining experience. 5 monuments.

Scott, John, Barbara, Marguerite, Laura and Scott and baby had Sunday brunch at Fanizzi’s. Awesome buffet…best in town. Nice water view … literally on the water
5 monuments.

John, Mike and I have formed a Thursday dining out threesome (mind out of gutter). It’ll be just the three of us unless there is an out of town guest visitng. John has volunteered to write the critique. Part of our plan is to start at The Red Inn in the west end of town and work out way east.

Anyhow, short entry this week. Weather is warming up, the town is crowded with absolutely beautiful men. I’ve been here 5 years and this season there is electricity in the air…I’ll figure out what it is soon enough. And with that good night….the summer has begun!

Provincetown Loses a Legend

2008-05-04T08:06:00.000-07:00

Sad news to report! Provincetown has lost one of its own. David Frederico, fondly known around town as Dixie, passed away suddenly and prematurely this past Sunday. You may know Dixie from his years as the fun and sassy waiter at The Post Office Café. Last year he worked at Bayside Betsy’s. He also ran for Selectmen a couple of times a few years back. He was narrowly defeated in both attempts. Always with a smile on his face, he would say “hi” to everyone he passed by. He was young and will be missed by all. I’ll write more if and when there is viewing information.

I feel weird writing about all of the past week’s activities in light of Dixie’s passing, so I’ll be quick about it.

Brad and I went to Cambridge to celebrate his 29th birthday! We stayed at The Hyatt Regency and had great views of the Charles River and Back Bay. Our trip started with a trip to The Museum of Science where we watched the Imax movie, Mummies. It was very interesting. Then we walked around Harvard Square, had the best hot chocolate I’ve ever had at L.A. Burdick’s Chocolate Café. Then we saw “Elections and Erections” at the Zero Arrow Theatre. Pieter-Dirk Uys was magnificent in his political satire regarding South African politics. Our evening ended at a truly great restaurant T.W. Food on Walden Street in Cambridge. The food was awesome! Everything was flawless from the quality of food to the service. If you are in Cambridge you may want to try this great eatery…617-864-4745. Sorry no website.

Back home in Provincetown, I went to see Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day at Whaler’s Wharf. The critics slammed it, but, it was a cute predictable love story with great costumes, acting and sets. Go see it. It is a feel good movie. Personally, it reminded me that I’ve lost love due to living in Ptown. Oh well. What the critics missed though, is the dark anticipation and undercurrent happening throughout the movie. See if you can pick up on it.

I also did my spring yard clean up. Rake, weed, prune, mulch, fertilize and mow. WHEW! Trips to Conwell ACE Hardware and Lands End True Value. Great weather for outside work but I missed opening night at Enzo’s…too tired from all the yard work. Brad did attend and said it was a lot of fun. Afterwards, we grabbed a couple slices at George’s Pizza. The pizza was good. Crisp and cheesy. Slices were heated up quickly. But the sourpusses on both the clerk’s and the cook’s face made me feel as if there was someone with a gun hiding under the counter forcing them to work. It’s a little unnerving. And it’s been that way for years! George’s gets 3.5 monuments and a tickle for the workers to make them smile.

Friday night I went to Mohegan Sun to see Kathy Griffin. Wow… she was really funny! We had great seats…fourth row center! We stayed overnight and had a wonderful dinner at Bamboo Shoots. I didn’t lose too much as I don’t gamble. In fact, I spent most of my time at the spa.

Saturday, John, Rich and I attended Kibbles and Skits at The Vixen, a fundraiser for CASAS - Carrie A. Seaman Animal Shelter. Local favorites performed on stage for about three hours in a variety/talent show. It was lots of fun! I won a raffle. The first time ever in my life…a $50 gift certificate to Toys of Eros. Please click on the link at the end of the blog to find out more about CASAS.

We took a break and had dinner at The Mayflower. Ok… here comes a review. The Mayflower is not my favorite restaurant and in the past, during my younger years, I would be embarrassed to be seen going in or out of the establishment. Frankly, now, I just don’t care. Surprisingly, the food was actually good. John and I spilt the Steamers as an appetizer. Rich would not have any. Most of the steamers were tasty…some were gritty as heck but I’m not really sure there is any control over that. I ordered the lasagna. It was very good. I’d get it again. We got rolls and salad with the meal. Price was VERY low. Service was excellent. We debated whether the waiter was gay or not. We never found out.. The atmosphere is pretty neat and is a throw back to 1947. You are right on Commercial Street and have a great view of passersby. The Mayflower gets 5 monuments and yes, I’ll go back.

Sunday morning Brad and I had breakfast at Connie’s Bakery. They are located right down the street from my house and the walk there was pleasant. We ordered breakfast sandwiches and coffee to go. The sandwich was delicious. I’ll get one again. Coffee was fresh and hot. Breakfast sandwiches are all served on freshly baked rolls. Yum! Great atmosphere. Great pastry. Great setting. 5 monuments

Sunday night I attended a donor appreciation party as part of my Board work for the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod. I met a couple who recently moved from Manhattan and settled in Sandwich. Ed and Bill are their names and they told me stories about Provincetown and Fire Island in the 1960’s! I plan on getting together with these guys quite often this summer.

Finally, tonight I attended the Spring Fling event at The Crowne Pointe. The owners were gracious hosts, food was delicious and company friendly.

In closing, I would like to dedicate this blog entry to Dixie. May he rest in peace.

This week's links:

Carrie A. Seaman Animal Shelter www.casasanimalshelter.org

AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod www.asgcc.org

A Weekend in Salem, Whales and More Restaurant Experiences in Provincetown

2008-04-28T08:03:00.000-07:00

ormally, Pia and I switch off every other week writing the blog. This week and next, however, I hog the blog.

I must start with a trip I took to Salem, MA two weeks ago with Troy. That’s right, the Georgia Peach made another trip up to Yankee land for some fun. It was his spring break week and he decided to come for a visit (as you already know if you read the April 7th blog entry). He overcame the fear of flying the Cape Air puddle jumper and made the 20 minute flight. He has now seen the gradual awakening of Provincetown from its winter slumber in January to stirring of activity in February to the pre-season busyness in April.

The growing crowd at The Porch Bar and more stores opening on Commercial Street were plenty of reason for me to escape town. The North Shore of Boston was our destination. We met my friend Jack in Swampscott for lunch at Hawthorne by The Sea. This place is a throw back to different times. Besides the awesome views of the Atlantic Ocean and Boston skyline, the waiters wore captain jackets as if we were on a cruise. It was a very nice touch. The food was good and it was nice catching up with Jack.

Then we toured the cliffs in Marblehead, the homes on Marblehead Neck and drove through Old Town. We walked the Salem Common which was very similar to Forsyth Park in Savannah, but on a smaller scale. We ran into my friends Chris and Stefanie who were contemplating adopting a baby. How precious! We found the statue of Elizabeth Montgomery commemorating the television show “Bewitched” and took some photos.

Then we checked into The Hawthorne Hotel. Which overall, I must say, was perhaps the best experience in service I’ve received at a hotel in many years. The interaction with front desk clerk to the room service was wonderful. If you like historic inns and find yourself north of Boston, be sure to check it out.

That night we had dinner with friends of mine I had not seen in awhile. We took a trip down nostalgia lane and supped at Gourmet Garden (formerly Bejing Palace) where we used to chase away the Sunday night blues by means of a scorpion bowl or two. This was when I worked in the corporate world and dreamed of moving to Provincetown. Troy, Chad, Glen, Buddy, Rick, Mark and I enjoyed a scrumptious meal and wonderful catch up stories but no scorpion bowl. Afterwards, we walked around Salem and I was tuned to be a second degree Reiki Healer. Yes, I’ve been a first degree Healer for about two years.

The next day, Troy and I went to Crow Haven Corner, Inc. and had our fortunes told by Laurie. Great energy! What fun! And although I’m gay I must take this time, and Troy is in agreement, to compliment Laurie on her enormous breasts. She gives Dolly a run for her money.

Then we drove back to Provincetown.

Right after Troy left, the Right Whales came a feeding in Cape Cod Bay. John and I were able to watch the whales breach right from Race Point Beach. It was a remarkable experience and the first time I’ve ever seen this in the five years I’ve lived here. Please check out the video link at the end of this blog entry if you’d like to see it.

Here’s a strange one for you. This past weekend Mark and I saw a large, feline type animal run across the street right in front of us as we were driving to my house. It was late Friday night. At first we thought it was a coyote, however, it was large, not shaggy, had a long smooth tail and looked like a lioness. You may think we’re crazy, but it resembled a medium sized wild cat. Apparently, when I shared this story the next day with locals, I was told that there have been a few sightings, of what is best described as a Puma, from Provincetown to Wellfleet. Weird. I’ll let you know if there’s anymore news on this one.

Rich, Mark and I dined at two restaurants in Ptown this weekend. Friday night we ate at Bayside Betsy’s. It was crowded but we were able to get a seat by the window with a view of the bay. The service was good with lots of humor injected. Betsy came by twice to check in. The appetizer of mozzarella crustini was fabby. We all got the fish fry. Beer batter cod and fries with coleslaw. Yummy. This was bad for the diet, but delicious. The food was good, service prompt and priced right in the budget. Bayside Betsy’s gets 5 monuments.

Saturday, we walked into The Lobster Pot without reservations at 7PM. We were lucky enough to get in right away. We were ushered upstairs and brought to our table within 10 minutes with a smile and great attitude. This was a display of great skill by the greeter and the seater while utter chaos of a crowded restaurant was happening. Our waiter was a butch guy named Pete. He is adorable, efficient and great at his job. Fresh from New Orleans for the summer, he is in for quite the season. Our appetizer was the mixed seafood grill and blackened shrimp. These were really good. The meals were served promptly and delicious. I got the baked cod. Rich got the fried clam strips which I thought were very tasty. Peter kept checking in, was thorough in his presentation, flirtatious and cute as heck. The Lobster Pot gets 5 monuments and Pete gets my number (jk).

I told you I was pretty easy (regarding restaurant critiquing that is). Something really has to be awry in order for a restaurant to lose a monument or two.

There was a play in town this weekend at The Provincetown Theater, “Sixty Years with Bruhs and Gean.” It is about a long term gay relationship…true story and perhaps inspirational to someone like me who really doesn’t think long term gay relationships are possible. But no one wanted to see it and John, my theatre buddy, is in Florida on vacation. The reviews and word of mouth has been good so if it comes to a theater near you, check it out.

It was Brad’s birthday last Tuesday and we went to see a political satire, “Elections and Erections” in Cambridge. I’ll tell you all about it and our trip in next week’s blog. Perhaps I’ll have more restaurant reviews too.

Have a wonderful week, thanks for your emails and feel free to send more.

Whale blog link www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJ0ehV7teJQ

Hawthorne Hotel www.hawthornehotel.com

Fortune Teller in Salem www.crowhavencorner.net

Spring is Here

2008-04-21T08:02:00.000-07:00

The weather is warming up and tourists are anxious for the summer. Monday was Patriot’s Day and it brought a plethora of Boston boys to town for the long weekend, fleeing the crowds of The Boston Marathon. When I drove down Commercial Street on Saturday I thought that it was summer. The street was packed with straight, gay and lesbian shoppers. Some of the boys even had their shirts open showcasing their springtime abs that they probably worked all winter to get.

This week, I’ll be writing about my visit to three local restaurants over the weekend. I’ve decided to create a rating system for local eateries. Some of the seasonal restaurants have raised their prices. I have nothing against a business owner balancing out the rising price of gas and supplies and making a profit, however, it better be worth it. I’m pretty easy as a judge too. Just so you know I’m not a persnickety, picky queen. So, on a scale of 1-5 monuments, 5 being the best, I’ve developed this rating system based on price, quality of food and service.

Now that pre-season is here, most of the restaurants are open in town. Besides the local establishments that provide great service and food over the winter- Bayside Betsy’s, Fanizzi’s, The Mews and Michael Shays, summer favorites like The Lobster Pot, The Post Office Café, Ross’ Grill and The Red Inn opened this weekend. Bubula’s opening is delayed due to the visa issue facing local business owners and seasonal employees.

Friday night Rich and I ate at The Central House. This is the restaurant in The Crown and Anchor. They had just re-done the patio and it looks lovely. We sat outside and enjoyed watching Commercial Street. The server was prompt and friendly and knew her menu. The appetizer, a two beet salad was savory and the bread was pretty good. About 10 minutes after we finished our appetizers, the manager came to our table with a free lobster appetizer due to a pending delay in our food. I appreciated the gesture. Fried lobster has never been a choice for me so I can’t rave about it but it was good. Then twenty five minutes later the food arrived. However, it was so late that we had to get it to go due to my plans. There were apologies but the damage was done. I really wanted to enjoy a good meal and didn’t get the chance. My assessment is that the food is probably good if I could have eaten it. The server was excellent but the kitchen needs to get it together considering the restaurant was not even half full. I’ll have to give The Central House 3 monuments and I hope they improve before summer.

Saturday night, Rich, John and I ate at Ross’ Grill. Extraordinary service, delicious, well prepared food and excellent atmosphere were ingredients for a flawless dining experience. Rich did gripe because the prices have increased. But at Ross’s you get what you pay for and there are no complaints from me about pricing. We started off with an appetizer of sweet turkey sausage and pate. The presentation was wonderful. Tasty too. My meal, Salmon over rice, was served in a prompt timeframe. It was seared, practically raw, just as I like it, just as I ordered. Ross’ Grill gets 5 monuments and maybe another just for kicks. This year they take reservations so plan ahead.

Sunday Rich, John and I went to Jimmy’s Hideaway. The frenzied atmosphere is pub like and casual and the food is exquisitely prepared. We started with the whole belly clams and spring rolls. Both were really good. The bread was awesome, best yet. I ordered the pan seared Halibut over black rice. It was prepared perfectly and was absolutely delicious. The service was good and even the host, not server, kept checking in. Unfortunately, the ball was dropped at the end. We ordered desert and coffee. The coffee was served timely but it took almost 15 minutes to get the desert. A neighboring table had ordered and recommended it to us (they did not wait 15 minutes). When the desert finally arrived, it was delicious. I understand the craze of the restaurant biz (I worked as a bus boy and room service waiter years ago) but the crowd had thinned and the least the server could have done was kept our coffee hot. She literally disappeared. The service lacked at the end putting a damper on an otherwise good dining experience. Jimmy’s Hideaway gets 4 monuments and I’ll be back to make sure they do better

I’ll be trying different places throughout the summer and letting you know how they are. Once again, I’m pretty easygoing so if a place screws up, you should know that it is major. Let me know if you have a local favorite you’d like me to eat at.

Have a good week!

Pia Interviews Her Daddy

2008-04-14T07:46:00.000-07:00

Pia: You have been able to show how living here in Provincetown year round takes creativity and travel, especially during the winter. You’ve brought bloggers along two winter trips. But daily life during the winter is still pretty full for you. Please take me through your typical week.

Mike: I have a job that consumes much of my time, even on days off. That combined with my volunteer work, creative endeavors and socializing, keeps me busy.

Monday: This day starts with an office meeting at work which is Atlantic Bay Sotheby’s International Realty (when repeating put an echo on the international) (http://www.atlanticbaysir.com) . Afterwards, I record “The Closing Table” at local radio station WOMR 92.1FM. Check it out from this website if you’d like (Click Here). I focus on marketing on Monday during the day. This includes compiling information for provincetownrealestatenow.com and ptownma.info. I wrap up the day with a sales team meeting in the afternoon. Monday evenings are filled with personal administrative tasks…budgeting, bill paying and all that fun stuff. One Monday every other month, I attend a Board of Directors meeting for The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod (http://www.asgcc.org) and a meeting for the Development Committee for the AIDS Support Group.

Every Monday at 8PM I also try and get together with a group of local guys for casual socializing…if I have enough energy.

Pia: That’s a pretty busy day! Do you have a weekend?

Mike: Yes, Tuesday. This is my Saturday! Depending on the time of year this day could be spent off cape, doing yard work, catching a matinee. I usually have a standing lunch engagement with my friend Bill. Tuesday is my first day back at the gym after my weekend. I usually go at night. And as you know, Pia, both Tuesday and Wednesday are days I spend with you since I’m not working.

Wednesday: This is my Sunday and I try and get some relaxation in. I may head over my friend John’s house for movie night, go to The Cape Inn for free movie night or just catch the nature around here. It is starting to warm up and I want to take advantage of the natural beauty around here this year. I usually have lunch with my friend Bill again just to stay in touch. In the evenings I go to the gym. Right now I am coordinating a planned beach volleyball game for Wednesday nights during the summer. If so I’ll let you know if this happens as anyone can partake.

Pia: Volleyball sounds good. Can I use my snout to bounce the ball back and forth?
Mike: I’m not sure if that will be a good idea. It may hurt and besides, I don’t want you running amuck on the beach. There is the coyote factor to consider.

Thursday is my Monday! Its back to work for me. I compile more info for our real estate blog provincetownrealestatenow.com and send the info to the webmaster (http://www.pcfdesigns.com) along with a real time photo of the week (I snap a pic of Ptown just prior to sending blog to all clients). Every other Thursday I tour new listings on the market in Provincetown as part of the multiple listing service tour. I set up appointments for the weekend and get settled back in the office. After work I head home to walk you and then its off to the gym!

Friday: I start this day by weighing myself before I eat anything. I feel that physical health is paramount to successful attitude and ambition. Then its off to work. Besides working on appointments, I record another version of The Closing Table at Dunes 102.3 FM (Click Here) in the afternoon. Right after work I walk you again and head off for casual socializing with local friends. After which I go to the gym for my final workout before the weekend! I have dinner with friends from Boston who come to town pretty much every weekend and we end the night at The Porch Bar.

Saturday: Busy, busy, busy…even off season in Provincetown. Many folks are coming to town to check out real estate. In the evenings I usually have friends or clients in town. We go to dinner and whatever form of entertainment is happening. The movie theatre in Wellfleet is open year round and there is live theatre as well in Provincetown and Wellfleet. Dinner parties are very popular year round here.

Sunday: Another busy day for real estate. When it is slow I get caught up with maintaining my listings and other administrative tasks pertaining to real estate. After work, I relax at home or go to a movie. Its usually a calm night for me.

Pia: How do you maintain your energy?

Mike: I start my day off early, around 6:30 or 7AM, pretty much when you wake up and come bounding out from under the covers. I read the paper, watch The Today Show and eat a full breakfast. It’s the best way to start the day.

Pia: Do you mind living here year round?

Mike: No I absolutely love it. The off season is actually my favorite time of the year. The seasonal workers are back in town now, tourists are visiting on the weekends and the town is waking up. Although summer brings in lots of visitors and I meet people from all over the world, I prefer the fall and winter. I keep busy and for me, living here is just like living anywhere else, I just get the benefit of not being in the hustle and bustle of civilization. If I get cabin fever, I go away. It’s no different for me than when I lived in Boston, only that I love my work and the ocean surrounds us. The fact that this is the largest gay and lesbian population in the world makes it very accepting to all walks of life. I can literally be myself here without the hidden and overt prejudices that I faced in the corporate world.

Broadway on the Cape?

2008-04-07T07:45:00.000-07:00

I can’t believe it is spring already. If you’ve been following this blog, which started just after New Years, you know that living out here year round can be trying at times. Sometimes the cold dark winter months can be quite lonely and seem to last forever. However, this winter has flown by in comparison to my four previous at Lands End. Now that spring is here, the town slowly warms to the upcoming season. Having lunch at Café Heaven the other day, I watched as the boys strolled by. Summer is definitely on its way.

One thing that I neglected to do over the past few months is take advantage of the theatre that Provincetown offers off season. With my trips to Atlanta, Savannah and New York City, I haven’t really focused too much on winter activities in town. This past week, though, I took advantage of some of the local shows that were at hand.

“Anna in the Tropics” by Nilo Cruz was playing at The Provincetown Theatre through April 6th. It was very entertaining. The cast, a mix of superb actors from New York and Provincetown, seemed to delight in their roles. Although The Provincetown Banner, Cape Cod Times and my friend Rich did not share my fond feelings for the play, I found it amusing and a little sad. Love unrecognized is a terrible thing and then to have it discovered only to…. Oops…. can’t give away the ending. Anyhow, the play was put together well both on stage and behind scenes. No complaints here. Although this run is over, be sure and check out all productions at the Provincetown Theatre.

“The Last Train to Nibroc,” playing at The Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theatre was a brilliantly put together performance. The two characters held the storyline and almost perfected the southern accents. It was a love story about lovers afraid to profess their feelings for one another until…. I was completely entranced by the storyline and believed that the actors were indeed from the south. Troy, visiting from Atlanta, snapped me back to reality when he told me that the accents were part of the act. Great job though. The theatre itself is an exquisite piece of architecture. This play runs through April so check it out if you are in town.

Finally, The Provincetown High School produced “Grease.” Although some of the leads had a hard time hitting their notes, the acting and choreography was well worth the price of admission. The timing was near perfect and the acting was pretty good for a high school play. At times I felt as if I were watching the pros off Broadway, especially during the Beauty School Drop Out scene. The solo performed by young actress Kim (no last name here) was suitable for American Idol. Unbelievable pipes on her!

Well, as I had said before, Troy is here for his third visit in just as many months. We just returned from a night at The Mews Coffee House where we dined with Ron and Ed. Local favorites Peter Donnelly and Matthew Paige performed some great songs. Quite a few artists sang love songs which made it a little sad, but the food and company was excellent as always.

Tomorrow, Troy and I head to Salem to catch up with old friends of mine Jack, Chad and Glen. I’ll tell you more about it next week. And then Pia interviews yours truly. Have a good week.

Views from Commerical Street: An observation from an Italian Greyhound

2008-03-31T07:44:00.000-07:00

As the first quarter winds to a close, and the cold weather takes it’s last futile breaths, the town is coming alive. This is the moment, now, in early April when Provincetown starts to blossom its resort persona. Restaurant workers, retail staffers and entertainers are getting ready for the season.

As I strolled down Commercial Street today signs of spring were everywhere:

The boys at Marc Jacobs were having a meeting with the store doors wide open and fabric draped across their laps.

Posters announce that Varla Jean and Miss Richfield will be performing at The Art House this summer. Varla not at the Post Office? What a scandal!

Dina Martina will be at The Crown and Anchor. She has left The Vixen.

Keep your eyes peeled on The Vixen…big things to come this season. Is it true Linda Eder is coming back?

Rental agents were driving prospective seasonal renters around to check out their potential summer pads.

New restaurants galore are popping up! Starting in the West End… The site of the former Beach Grill on the corner of Bradford and West Vine will host a Tapas style Brazilian restaurant in a brand new building. L’Uva in the center of town will have new owners and become an Asian themed bistro. The famous Noreen has moved her breakfast and lunch experience to The Vixen. Chester restaurant is slated to become something “unique” according to the new owner. How exciting, five new places to try. And another exciting change …Barry, the former executive chef from Devon’s is now the executive chef at Jimmy’s Hideaway. Great food! Spiritus is now open, soon Ross’s Grill be open.

The T-shirt and sweatshirt shop, The Cotton Gin, has moved from the center of town to a new west end location. Please stop in and say “hi” to Vitalia this summer when visiting. The Toys of Eros has moved to the former site of the video store. Cottage has closed for good and in its place a bric a brac shop has opened. Cuffy’s has expanded into the now vacant and defunct Alibi.

Many seasonal workers are now arriving. The “behind the scenes” has started! Soon the town will be in its pre season warm up and practice weekends preparing for the Memorial Day kick off.

Well I Declare

2008-03-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

“Well I declare!” If I had a dime for every time I heard that or “Bless your heart” over the past two weeks, I’d be rich. Pia and I are back from our mid winter vacation to Atlanta, Savannah and Tennessee. This vacation was part of our plan to get through winter here in Provincetown. Spring has already “sprung” in Atlanta. The trees were already green!

I decided to take the train down to Atlanta from Boston. I rented a roomette and enjoyed some time to catch up on my reading. I also met some really interesting people in the dining car, one of which was a retired general working to repeal Don’t Ask Don’t Tell.

Anyhow, I had much fun the first few days doing pretty much nothing. My brother Chris and niece Amanda went to the Atlanta Zoo. It was fun and I recommend it if you are in Atlanta. Troy and his roommate Steve were very hospitable and went out of their way to show me true southern hospitality.

Troy and I headed to Savannah Friday afternoon, and after getting stuck in Atlanta traffic for two hours, made it out of the city. This made me thankful that I live in

Provincetown. We happened to be in Savannah for St Patrick’s Day weekend and needless to say it was full of drunk, wild partygoers who were definitely not my scene. What was my scene was Forsyth Park, the beautifully landscaped squares and lovely old homes. The cafes on the squares, trolley tour and fountains were my favorite. There is a huge young gay scene in Savannah.

It so happened that while in Savannah my Blackberry lit up with emails and text messages from folks up north interested to know if I was OK. It turns out that a major tornado hit downtown Atlanta seriously damaging the buildings.

Our last night in Savannah was spent in the dark…literally. The power was knocked out for 12 hours. Troy and I got creative on how to spend the time. We did enjoy a fabulous lightening show that lasted for about half an hour. The sky was illuminated non stop!

When we returned to Atlanta, Troy, his roommate Steve and my brother went to Tennessee on a day trip to see The Lost Sea. This remarkable attraction is an underground lake. Totally awesome! Afterwards we toured an ice creamery.

On my last day, Troy and I walked up Stone Mountain. This was a cardio workout but once at the summit, the views were breathtaking.

Before I caught the train home, my brother’s roommate Douglas, prepared a delicious meal. It was a nice send off. I boarded the train and headed home.

I’m now easing back into Provincetown life.

Provincetown in the winter means ... I'm off again ...

2008-03-10T07:38:00.000-07:00

Pia and I will be away from the blog for this week and next week. We’re off to play Auntie Mame in a sun drenched Atlanta, Savannah and Tennessee.

“Mother of Jefferson Davis, she’s passing the fox!”

We’ll tell you all about the trip with tons of pictures. Check back on March 24, 2008.

In the meantime, here are some photos of Ptown for you to enjoy.

NOTE: Check out the blog entry on ptownma.info for pictures (click here)

Just Another Day

2008-03-03T07:35:00.000-08:00

It’s Sunday night and I just returned from dinner with friends Rich and Mark. Comfort Food Sunday at Bayside Betsy’s…always a winner. But comfort food suggests fattening grub designed to chub you up for the winter. This combined with a Fish Fry Friday night and dinner party Saturday spells inflation of the waistline. Muffin tops all around. When you are single, such as I, this is not good. But Saturday, I went out dancing to The A-House. I haven’t been there in about two years. Not sure when I’ll be back.

I’ll be heading to Atlanta and Savannah shortly and desperately trying to keep the pounds off, because, sure as snow, the shirt will most likely be coming off on the dance floor. I ask myself “am I too old for this silly body image game?”…but when in Rome. I’m kidding a little bit, but in all seriousness the camera is coming south and you’ll get to see some of the fun. I’ll be in Troy’s neck of the woods with his crew. As long as I’m not blindfolded and hear a banjo I’ll be fine.

The weather here in Provincetown is still pretty cold and the winter winds add that stabbing, penetrating jab when walking down Commercial Street. Afternoon coffee at Café Joe always hits the spot. There is also some comfort in the isolation during the week when friends have retreated to their respective cities. Working out and renting movies is a nice time filler.

Later this week, Brad and I will head to Hyannis for a day trip and to catch a matinee. What a scandal! Slipping away to catch a flick midday. My weekend is your weekday…the life of a realtor.

There really isn’t much to write about this week. I’ll be flying to Boston on Friday to catch dinner with friends and a show at Club Café. My friend and real estate clients Buddy and Patrick have written and produced “Buddy Starr’s Fabulous Tour of Provincetown.” Buddy is the star. If you get a chance to go, check it out…visit http://www.buddystarr.com The dinner and show tickets cost a total of $32. Not bad for Boston and I hear Club Café has a new chef so the food isn’t as horrible as it used to be. Plus you get preferred seating. The show premiered two Fridays ago but Provincetown was socked with a snowstorm and I was marooned. Buddy got great reviews by some pretty discerning queens though. And those Boston boys can be tough so you know he must be good.

Have a good week and I’ll report next Monday!

Pia Sees A Wreck

2008-02-25T07:30:00.000-08:00

This week I trotted down to Newcomb Hollow Beach in Wellfleet to take a first hand IG look at a shipwreck.

I was able to put the camera around my neck and take some spectacular photos using my snout.

First, a little background. On January 27th, this year, we experienced quite a storm that churned the ocean viciously. The winds howled and I spent most of the time under the covers hiding next to daddy. Ultimately, this storm caused the skeleton of a sunken vessel to wash ashore on Newcomb Hollow Beach in Wellfleet. It has become quite the attraction here.

The 60 foot remains of the ship, believed to be a 19th century schooner, lay upright on the beach as if on display in a museum. Due to the number of shipwrecks off the coast of Cape Cod and without a name, spectators speculated as to the ship’s identity. Theories were abundant in the crowd that gathered around the decomposing hull that the ship was a fishing vessel from Gloucester or a coal carrying barge. No one really knows for sure. My theory is that it carried crates of dog food destined for Italian Greyhound puppies.

The National Parks Service has no plans to remove the ship and the remains are expected to be washed out to sea. If you have a chance to visit the Cape, check out the ship as it is truly a remarkable piece of history.

I bit part of the boat off and asked an onlooker to throw it for fetch. He scolded me for chewing on the boat and shooed me away. What a crab! I barked at him and ran home.

I showed daddy my photos and he thought I should share them with you, so please enjoy.

NOTE: Check out the blog entry on ptownma.info for pictures (click here)

Georgia Peach, Big Apple and Beantown

2008-02-19T07:29:00.000-08:00

A few weeks back I offered some insight as to what to do in Provincetown to make it through the winter. Well, this past weekend was a whirlwind of events that included a visit to Boston and New York. I was able to get away with Troy who came back for another visit from Atlanta. Since he lives in the “New York” of the south, I figured he should get to the big apple and take you along for the trip.

It started Thursday night in Boston. We went to Club Café, the true Boston “stand and pose” club, then Fritz and ending at The Eagle. After a piece of pizza from Emilios, we crashed at friends Frank and Tim’s place on Union Park. A fun filled first night in my old stomping grounds, the South End of Boston.

We awoke at 5AM and boarded the 6 AM Amtrak to New York City. Troy had never been on the train before. The sky was dotted with clouds which led to some beautiful colors in the sky as the sun rose over the Atlantic. The trip down to NYC went quickly and we arrived at Penn Station around 10AM. We dropped our bags off at friends Wayne and Gary’s loft in Chelsea. We socialized a bit and headed to Elmo’s for lunch with Wayne and Alex.

Afterwards, Troy and I headed off to The Statue of Liberty, where surprisingly enough, we took the Provincetown 2 for a ride. For those of you that don’t know the significance…this big lumbering boat used to be the ferry service to Ptown from Boston. Lady Liberty stood tall and the view of Manhattan from the island was awe inspiring. As I boarded the Ptown 2 and headed back to the mainland, I felt at home in many ways. Memories of my youth in Provincetown collided with my memories of Manhattan. I felt I was heading to a new beginning on many levels as this Provincetown “townie” I was riding, had found a home as a working girl in New York.

We took the “1” train to Times Square and bought last minute tickets to A Chorus Line. After indulging in some truly New York style pizza, we watched the show. It seemed to drag a bit. At one point I asked Troy if it had an end…he couldn’t stop laughing which caused me to laugh. Kind of like laughing in church…once you start forget it. However, there is a part in the performance where eight actors are cut from the show. When this happened, members of the audience actually cried. We saw that the show had impacted them differently than us. We stopped our snickering...as best we could.

We walked 7th Avenue back to Chelsea after the show. The air was cool but the city was, as always, alive. Troy and I ran into some of New York’s finest…and snapped a photo.

The next day Troy and I woke up early and walked to Rockefeller Center to watch Lester Holt deliver the news. It was freezing but pretty cool watching the Today Show. Troy’s mom, watching back in Tennessee, saw him waving to the camera. We met Wayne, Gary and their two children, Brennan and Juliet, at Cafeteria for a scrumptious brunch before heading back to Boston on the train.

This was one of my best trips top New York. No pre-clubbing drinks at “G”, no dancing at Splash or stops at that leather shop in The Village where they sell electric paddles. There was something in the air that I couldn’t put my finger on. I talked business with clients, shared laughs with friends and recalled the past in the secret of my heart. New York felt good, the company felt better. I realized that I have a history in this remarkable place.

Back in Boston, Troy and I met up with my friend and Playwright George Sauer…who surprised us with comp tickets to see his new play “Crab Legs” being performed at the BCA. What fun. Here’s a plug for his play that I concocted for him….”The plot thickens like a bowl of chowder as Tanya Harding, her manager and bodyguard, meet for lunch in a seafood restaurant.” Check it out if you’re in the area. It is worth it.

We drove back to Provincetown after the play and had two days of fun at The Porch Bar, watching Auntie Mame and taking in the scenery.

Unfortunately, we missed the American Heart Association’s Monument Crawl on Saturday …a fundraiser to help fund the study of the prevention of heart disease. In fact the monument was illuminated red for the past two weeks in anticipation for this event. It was quite a sight.
Once again, I got my dose of civilization and breathed a sigh of relief when the monument came into view.

Pia the Italian Greyhound interviews Brad, a true Provincetownie

2008-02-11T07:28:00.000-08:00

Pia: How long have you lived in Provincetown?

Brad: 4 Years Year-round, summers since 1999

Pia: What made you first want to work out here during the summer?

Brad: I was back home in Michigan after finishing cooking school, but before starting my undergrad. I wanted out of Michigan and needed to make money for school. A friend had worked in Ptown the prior summer and suggested to

Pia: Why did you decide to go year round?

Brad: Like they say, once you leave Ptown it will keep pulling you back in

Pia: What do you do now for work?

Brad: Bookkeeping, cooking, retail, Whatever odd jobs to make it through the winter.

Pia: How do you keep busy during the winter?

Brad: I’m lucky I still have work in the winter. Otherwise, I watch more movies, cook more and arts and crafts (I’m learning how to knit).

Pia: Not to sound like a job interview, but where do you see yourself in a few years?

Brad: I’m not sure. I keep thinking I’ll leave town but like I said earlier, town has a way of pulling you back in.

Pia: Will you sneak me some food from the fridge?

Brad: No, I think you get spoiled enough as it is.

An Undefeated Season ... Until the Big Game

2008-02-04T07:27:00.000-08:00

Never count your chicks before they hatch. Is that the saying? Well, we all saw that tonight as The New England Patriots completely threw away a nice lead over The New York Giants. With 1:30 to go in the game, which of course can be an eternity, The Patriots let The Giants gain yardage and ultimately a touch down to win the big game.

Not that I am a sports fan but it just seems like Tom Brady’s career could have been a little more protected here. Imagine an undefeated season right through the Super Bowl? Wow. Oh well. Move along.

Brad, Guy, Mark, Darren and I decided to be butch gay boys and watch the game. I feel a joke coming…“What do five gay men in Provincetown, off season, do on Super Bowl Sunday?” You fill in your own punch line, it’s probably spicier.

Well, here’s what we did. I bought a manly sized bag of corn chips and salsa, Guy brought 3 pizzas…cheese, pepperoni and mushroom, Mark brought soda, Darren brought coffee and Brad brought his smile.

The first three quarters (or innings as Guy asked) were quite uneventful and downright boring. I know a few lesbians who may beg to differ. However, the commercials were always as fun as ever….except, in my opinion, the one with the talking baby…I mean, come on, it’s been done how many times?

Tom Petty was right on in my opinion for the half time show. However the room was divided on whether he should have been the performer and whether his beard looked good. He was great, how old is he anyhow?

We watched the Patriots fall apart and let the Giants slice through their defense like a hot knife through cheese. I called it. Don’t ask me how but I called the Giants winning with a 5 point spread.

Even though none of us really cared, there was some sadness in the room when it became apparent that the undefeated Patriots season was sinking faster than Shelly Winters on the Poseidon.

We were all stunned as the last second dragged on forever and the Patriot’s dreams of making NFL history disappeared like a drag queen from Ptown after Labor Day.

We all sat in somber silence with frowns and maybe even a tear. Oh, that was just for Tom Brady as he walked off the field looking so sad.

And who says its dead here in the winter?

A True Georgia Peach (by Pia, the Italian Greyhound)

2008-01-28T07:25:00.000-08:00

My Daddy had a Friend Visit…A True Georgia Peach

Over The Martin Luther King Jr. weekend my daddy had a friend visit from Atlanta, Georgia. It was a lot of fun having someone in the house to play with while daddy was at work. We became friends instantly and I had tremendous fun running around the house with him and keeping warm on his lap. His name is Troy and I decided to ask him some questions for my blog. He had never been to Provincetown before.

I figured I’d take some time and find out how a true southerner felt about visiting this gay get away during the winter.

Pia: How did you find out about Provincetown?

Troy: Provincetown is a well known gay destination in Atlanta. My friends and I have never been here but talk about it a lot. I figured the three day weekend was a perfect time to do some reconnaissance.

Pia: Let me start by asking you how the weather is in Provincetown compared to Atlanta.

Troy: Well, the Friday I arrived the weather was quite warm. Mike said it was unseasonably warm. We didn’t have to wear jackets and it was sunny. This was similar to our weather, however, lately it has been cold in Atlanta. The rest of the weekend was freezing. I was a little disappointed that I didn’t get to see any snow.

Pia: What did you think of the scenery?

Troy: Provincetown seems to me like an island. It is very quaint with the one main street and little ma and pa shops. It struck me as odd that some folks leave their doors unlocked and cars running while they went shopping. Its like a different world out in Provincetown. It reminds me of where I grew up in Tennessee.

Mike took me to see the beaches, dunes and pier. What a truly remarkable place. Being from the south, I had never been to a seaside town that was cold. The visitor Center was a nice place to get a panoramic view of the ocean, bay, dunes and town. But again, it was freezing!
Pia: What did you do while in Provincetown?

Troy: Mike and I went to a social outing Friday night and then stopped by The Porch Bar with a few of his friends. We sat by the fireplace on the couch and enjoyed conversation and drinks.
Saturday, Mike took me to a great waterfront restaurant called Fanizzi’s for lunch. The views of the bay were incredible. We tried to buy tickets to a play for that evening. It was called “Doubt” but was sold out by 1pm. Mike ended up cooking me dinner. Afterwards, we enjoyed a sinful desert while watching a movie and sitting by a roaring fire. It was a low key evening. Truly enjoyable.

Sunday we slept in and eased into the day. It was very nice. I explored Commercial Street and did a little shopping for family at some of the shops that were open. Mike took me to Herring Cove Beach to catch a sunset over the water. It was truly amazing and beautiful. Mike and I had a nice dinner at home again and we sat by the fire.

Monday, we visited the Province Lands Visitor Center and Beech Forest. We had one last lunch at Fanizzi’s before I caught my flight home.

Pia: Did you want to leave?

Troy: Not really. Although it was freezing the town has a magic about it. I can’t wait to tell my friends.

Pia: Were there a lot of people in town?

Troy: I was surprised at how many people were in town. Due to the holiday weekend the streets, shops and bars were busy. I was truly shocked as Mike had told me it was sleepy coastal seasonal town off season. The video store was the meeting place for everyone.

Pia: What were your favorite parts of the trip?

Troy: How friendly everyone in Provincetown is. There was one guy at the Grand Union who made me blush while checking out. Everyone Mike introduced me to, from his co-workers, friends and clients, were all friendly as can be.

Pia: Will you come back?

Troy: Most definitely. I can’t wait to see how the town fills up in the summer. I hear the hustle and bustle is quite exciting.

Pia: Will you throw my toy for me now?

Troy: I guess.

One Man's Survival Guide for Winter in Provincetown

2008-01-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

This week, a quick blog entry to address the question… “What the heck do you do here in the winter?” I had the shallow experience in August of speaking to a gym boy who asked me if anyone really lives in Provincetown off season. Then he popped his gum.

We townies get creative and take advantage of the lull. We “get the town back” so to say. It’s a time to set in motion the plans for the new year. It is also a time to catch up on socializing. Many of us work full time and living here is like living anywhere else. We work, go to the gym and hang out with friends and have a regular routine. There is never shortage of things to do; take in the natural beauty, movie nights at friends’ homes, dinners, gatherings at one of the local bars that stay open, plays at the Provincetown Theatre and vacations.

Vacations? Yes. The key to happiness here is to go away once per month, budget wisely and act. Whether it’s a quick trip to Boston or New York, or a fabulous sun filled time Fort Lauderdale, absence makes the heart grow fonder for Provincetown.

The funny thing about living here is that once you go away, after a vacation, you want to come home. While your travel companions are lamenting a return to their lives and jobs, you’ll be thinking of driving over that last hill in North Truro, seeing the Pilgrim Monument and letting out a sigh of relief that you are home.

I decided to put together the typical winter schedule if you are contemplating a move to Provincetown and are wondering, “What the heck am I going to do off season?” I’ll address January and February this week and March and April in two weeks.

January- The holidays are now a distant memory and in order to get over the shock of a “dead’ town, book a trip, one or two weeks long, to somewhere sunny for mid February. Check for cheap airline ticket websites and just do it. This will give you something to look forward to and will make the cold, dark January weeks go by quicker.

Don’t wait to leave “the island” until February though, go away for a quick weekend. Boston is a short drive away and offers museums, theatre and friends. This is a time when the folks that stay with you over the summer, need to return the favor. Alternatives to Beantown include New York City, Providence, and Portland, Maine.

Invite a friend to visit for a long weekend. This past weekend was perfect considering the MLK holiday on Monday.

Before you know it, January will be over. But you need to take the initiative.

February- Put on the tanning lotion, a ridiculously loud shirt and hop the next flight to Fort Lauderdale. That vacation you planned in January is here! This south Florida fun town is our sister community and you will find that many of our Ptown brethren head here for the winter. Whether they are vacationing or working at restaurants, cafes or retail shops, you’ll see a townie on your trip. Also, you’ll find many men from around the country sunning themselves on the gay beach or by the pool at one of many gay guesthouses. You’ll find that it is nice to be a tourist and let loose, meet new friends and be bad.

All kidding aside, Fort Lauderdale is a cost effective option for a one to two week vacation, especially if rooming with friends.

Next week, Pia steals the blog again. I’ll cover March and April in two weeks and offer some ideas as to how you can make those dreary months fly by while living here in Provincetown off season.

Pia's-town in winter (by Pia, the Italian Greyhound)

2008-01-13T07:23:00.000-08:00

My name is Pia and I am two and half years old. My person, who I call daddy says that I am an Italian Greyhound. During the summer folks on Commercial Street stop and call me an IG or Iggy. They call me pretty and talk like a baby to me while putting their faces really close to my nose. I like to give the icky licky’s when they do this.

I have a house in Provincetown where I live with my daddy. I think I have finally finished training him. He now is on command to take me outside, feed me, play fetch and go to bed. However, I would like to play fetch a little more. Can you tell him? I’m not sure he understands me. Maybe he needs more training. My daddy is a big queen and a real estate agent, at least that’s what everyone says when he is not in the room.

Winter here in Provincetown is really fun for me. Daddy is around the house more to give me lots of hugs and kisses. Daddy has friends visit pretty much every weekend for dinner parties and they always throw food on the floor for me to eat! Don’t tell my dad though because he hasn’t been trained to do this. When he catches me doing it he puts me in the crate. It’s terribly unfair.

After dinner everyone gathers around the fireplace and talks about what to do during the winter in Provincetown. I always find a warm lap to curl up on, near the fire of course, and listen in.
It seems that Friday starts the weekend activity here. Three local restaurants, Michael Shays, Fanizzis and Bayside Betsy’s offer a fish fry. Apparently, this is the thing to do Friday night. After which, they head to The Porch Bar for conversation, meeting boys and shooting pool. I’m not sure how to shoot a pool but I hope it's not painful.

Saturday is usually reserved for dinner parties or reservations. A number of fine restaurants are still open this time of year and fun can still be had. Afterwards, a show at The Provincetown Theatre can be fun. It is open all year…real stage performances, not the cinema.

On Sunday its brunch time at Fanizzi’s. Wow…forget the new year resolution to eat healthy.
Sunday night my daddy goes to Bayside Betsy’s and gets the Sunday comfort food, mmmmm. I love this because he always brings some home and occasionally drops a piece and I snap it up without him knowing.

Monday is a hot night off season here. Its off to The Mews for Open Mic night…featured performers have been Zoe Lewis, Peter Donnelly and local celebrated poets and authors….lots of fun on a local level.

Oh and during the day on weekends, some shops are still open offering great deals. Both gyms are packed full of townies this time of year. It’s a social hangout according to daddy. Another place to hang out is one of the cafes…Joe in the west end is the most popular, but the east end has the Wired Puppy.

I usually drift off to sleep while they are talking and daddy wakes me up to take me outside to go pee. This is rewarding for me as I have trained him to give me snack once I’m done doing my business.

Then my daddy goes out with his friend to either the A-House or the Wave bar….I’m not sure what they do, but he always comes home to sleep with me and keep me warm.

I like the weekday and nights the best. My daddy stays home most nights after going to the gym. He watches TV while I get to stay curled up on his lap. I love it. Sometimes a friend will come over and play with me as they watch a movie.

During the day daddy leaves me alone because he has to work. I’m sad and really lonely during the day. Sometimes I get to go into the office with him. I like saying hello to everyone. Once I even pooped right on the rug as a gift. Daddy was not happy with me. I don’t know why as I was trying to be nice.

Oh well, that’s it from me, Pia the IG. I’ll write again in a couple weeks. Stay warm and obey your pets.

Living out of the Norm, a New Year

2008-01-05T07:22:00.000-08:00

Living in Provincetown year round is anything but normal. Of course, that all depends on your definition of the word. As I was flying into Provincetown, after spending New Years in Atlanta, the thoughts of 2008 and renewed promise in this magical town came to mind.

My evening flight on Cape Air was bumpy, a definite nail biter. Have you ever landed in a plane sideways? Upon final approach I realized that I was staring at the runway out of my back window. It was getting closer and closer. Then at the last minute, the pilot turned the plane and landed safely.

I bring this up because life here can easily be metaphoric to this landing. Just as you experience heartache and setback, a bumpy ride if you will, things turn around. I’ve had my share of ups and downs over the past two years due to my decision to live here. I am not alone. It seems that once you dedicate yourself to Provincetown, if you have the courage to do so and take the risk, life really happens for you.

After mimicking JPII and kissing the runway, I drove from the airport with memories of my time in Atlanta and new friends. My first stop was to be at a post new year party at The Brass Key guesthouse hosted by its wonderful owner Michael. What a great way to come home, seeing local friends and business associates, wishing them well. It was also a time to get caught up on the local gossip which fuels this town.

The room tax revenues were up for the spring and summer, the fall did pretty well, up 8.8% from last year. This is great news for our local economy. Let’s toast that next year will be the same or better.

We thought the arsonist had left our little hamlet by the bay, however, a suspicious dumpster fire was eerily similar to the ones set in November.

2008 could see the merger of the Provincetown High School with Nauset Regional High. This of course is due to declining student enrollment. How will the public react?

Then of course the real gossip: The Brass Key is not only for sale, but under agreement to the owners of The Crowne Point...hmmmm- The new bar in town had its license suspended due to fire code violations… uh oh,- Two new restaurants are going to open in time for next season…get the panelists out because everyone is a critic. And finally, that guy over there, with the scarf around his neck…he is the drummer for Scissor Sister. Indeed it was Patrick from the band, what a delightfully creative guy and fun to talk to.

Well, I’m home and off to a clean start. Happy New Year and I hope 2008 is filled with everything you desire.

Making A Move

2007-09-10T06:49:00.000-07:00

So, you’re thinking of moving to Provincetown? Hmmm. If you have a minute I’ll describe what the past four years have been like for me since moving from an executive position with a Boston real estate firm to Provincetown four years ago. In a single sentence, my Provincetown experience has been an explosion of creativity and spirituality mixed with an implosion in finances.

My love for Provincetown, combined with the need to break the chains of corporate bondage, motivated me to move to the promised fairyland in April 2003. I fell in love with a man who served as a catalyst for getting me to move. I quit my job, sold my homes and we started a property management company that quickly became successful.

However, the winds of fate determined that the relationship would not last. We sold our profitable company, I became a realtor and he slowly disappeared from the scene.

While all this was happening, the Gods of Provincetown saw fit to reach into my inner soul and extract hidden creativity. Poetry and short fiction poured from my heart. I returned to broadcasting and hosted numerous shows on the local radio station including a dance party and real estate program. I still produce, write and host a television program that details Provincetown happenings. I ventured into filmmaking and wrote, directed and produced a ten minute short film that has been accepted into a local film festival.

Besides these wonderful gifts, I am also the unexpected proud papa of a hyper Italian Greyhound. Gee, a lot can happen in four years!

Please tell me your story. Are you in Provincetown? Are you thinking of moving here? Let’s discuss.