As you’ve probably just noticed, your favorite “bar fly” will now be gracing the pages of the Gay and Lesbian Times, in the expanded nightlife section that premieres in this issue. For those of you that weren’t previously avid readers of “Bar Fly” in Rocket, let me bring you up to speed. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, barfly is slang for “one who frequents drinking establishments.” However you’d like to look at it, that’s what this column is all about: the adventures of me, the guy who frequents drinking establishments.

Some of these adventures over the past year have included lost innocence at Rich’s notorious foam parties, getting a free shot from a “coach” because of my sexy jock strap, Internet whoring, dealing with flakes, “the infamous Happy Hour Ho’s,” and more. If any of this piques your interest, be sure to continue reading Bar fly and let the adventures continue.

Let’s re-cap the happenings around town. The new Saturday night hotspot is Rich’s Voltage party. Rich’s installed lights that “dance” with the music, like the lights on an equalizer. Nikno spins really hot, refreshing remixes that keep the dance floor moving all night. It has become an incredibly popular night, that is not uncomfortably crowded. Rich’s recently added go-go dancers to the Saturday night line-up, and this past Saturday’s boys were amazing. I was fixated with one of them who was exceptionally hot, but I think I freaked him out. He quickly moved to another box – I promise, I’m not a stalker! Voltage is every Saturday, except for the third Saturday of the month, which is L.L. Bear night. For more information, visit www.richssandiego.com.

Of course we can’t forget about MayStar’s Club Fashion Whore. This special dance party and fashion show has really exploded into one of San Diego’s most unique club nights. DJs Nate Soixante and Edgartronic keep things going with hot mixes of electro, ‘80s, indie and Brit pop. There is always an optional dress up theme and they range from mild to wild. The theme for Friday, Aug. 10 is “Pool Party.” You can certainly get creative (and sexy) with that. Just remember that this is a waterless pool party, so skinny dipping is not allowed! Fashion Whore takes place the second Friday of each month at the Brass Rail. Last month’s event was packed, and this month should be no exception. More information is available at www.clubfashionwhore.com.

Speaking of the Brass Rail, it is always the place to be during CityFest. The annual street fair celebration invades Hillcrest on Sunday, Aug. 12. Fifth Avenue from University Avenue to Upas Street closes down for the entire day as thousands of people eat, drink, shop, dance and enjoy entertainment. Yes, there will be a beer garden that will feature beers from nine local breweries.

If that’s not enough for you, hop into the Brass Rail during CityFest. It is conveniently located along with a great view of the main entertainment stage from its patio. Brass Rail is always packed wall-to-wall during CityFest! Other great spots along Fifth Avenue to enjoy a drink during CityFest include Number One Fifth Avenue, and the Loft.

Be sure to check out the next Barfly column for new adventures in drinking establishments.

We’ll end this column with a new “Bar Fly” feature. It turns out my friend Adrian has been featuring a “Drink of the Month” (DotM) on his MySpace page. Since most of my fellow barflies out there enjoy indulging in a drink or two (or six) I thought it would be appropriate to spotlight a drink each month.

So here is Adrian’s first DotM pick: Vive La France! Now I can bet that your reaction to my suggestion will be a cringe, but trust me.

I was out with my drinking aces Gary and Connie, avoiding our respective worldly responsibilities when we decided to take the “lets knowingly do something stupid train” over to Shots-ville. Connie suggested many different concoctions. When she suggested ordering shots of Grand Marnier, it tickled me just right. I never thought Grand-Ma could be so good by itself, but alas, I still have some lessons to learn. Classy, simple, and effective, I am proud to offer to you, “Bar Fly” readers, a straight up shot of Grand Marnier as this month’s DotM. Just try it, and give tired Mister Jäger a break!