TRENDING x
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Ashley Brundage’s amazing life as a transgender woman
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Issue #296
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IN QUOTES
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The real Uber story is starting to unfold
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OPINION
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Durrell Watkins We really can change the world
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TRAVEL
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Explore Florida’s open waters
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Film review of “Mr. Holmes” starring Ian McKellen
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PAGE 41 SAME-SEX PARENTS TO CREATE BABIES FROM SKIN CELLS WITHIN TWO YEARS Photo by Kevin Winter / Getty Images
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Lee Rubin, Fort Lauderdale Philanthropist and social commentator
So many others before Caitlyn In this horrible world with all the violence going on, why do we honor a 65-year-old transgender celebrity with awards for bravery as a hero? There have been thousands of transgender people all over the world that had to suffer through life being persecuted! Where are their awards? Where are the honors for all the police men and women, or the firemen and women or the men and women protecting our country? I admire Caitlyn for finally living her life and being happy as she always wanted to be. Does this make her a hero? No. Her status as an ex-athlete and celebrity give her opportunities that your average transgender person will never see for themselves. Gary Santisario, Wilton Manors, Fla.
“F--k that puto!”
Comedian George Lopez responding to Donald Trump’s comments about Mexican immigrants. Puto is a derogatory Spanish word for a male prostitute that can mean “faggot”.
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By Adam Cohen
over records they are required to provide. As we have seen time and time again, self-regulation is not in the best interest of employee or consumers! I know yadda, yadda, yadda, the taxis are gross and UBER cars are nice, but that is not the whole story. Pay attention!
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I want to congratulate my buddy, Thomas Roberts, on his amazing accomplishment this weekend. He knocked it out of the park!
SOLID GOLD: I just saw a picture of that porn star that outed that Conde Nast CFO [David Geithner] and, well... nice body but a busted face! $2,500? What does he do for $2500…turn one’s penis into 24k gold?
Rubin
Gay pastor: We are all God’s children “If we say, ‘No, you’re not welcomed here,’ Hutchison then what example are we of God? We are to welcome all of God’s children into the kingdom. Christ died for all people. I don’t know how you wouldn’t understand the ‘all,'” Rev. Benjamin Hutchison, who resigned last week as senior pastor at the Cassopolis United Methodist Church (Mich.), after he was told he would be fired for being gay. Hutchison received strong support from his congregation and a few days later married his partner.
YES, I EAT PRUNES: So in the middle of the night I got up to eat some prunes that I keep in the fridge, and when I shut the door, a bottle of vermouth crashed on the floor and shattered. Now my kitchen area smells like Amy Winehouse, Keith Richards, and poor decision-making skills. CHOPPED LIVER?: I’m pissed and I am just going to say it. Donald Trump is an egotistical buffoon who said absolutely stupid things about immigrants in this country [in addition to] questioning John McCain’s status as a war hero. And partly out of their disagreement, and probably to salvage what’s left of this absolutely ridiculous Republican Party, all of the other candidates have condemned him. Yet how come when “prominent” (and I use this term loosely) candidates like Rick Santorum, Rick Perry, and that dope Cruz come out publicly saying horrifying, reprehensible statements about gay people and gay marriage, comparing it to pedophilia and bestiality, there is no giant uproar from the others? ENOUGH, ALREADY!: I am over the following [people]: Caitlyn, Bruce, Jenner, North West, Kanye, the Pimp Mom Kris, Kylie and Kaka (the ones that show their tits on Instagram), and the brother, Rob who used to be really hot but now looks like the love child of Carnie Wilson and Chaz Bono....oh, and Wheaties. WET SPOT: Well, this day is going to be awesome. Rushing from an appointment to get to the office I ended up spilling half a bottle of Evian on my pants. I’m trying to be a titan of industry with liquid-soaked pants, prominently in the crotch area. For a brief glimpse of a moment in time, I felt what must be the daily struggle of Hugh Hefner. STOP THE NOISE! Sixteen iPhone alarms on snooze constantly going off, and here I am, monitoring them all, fighting the good fight, like Sally Field in a burqa trying to smuggle her daughter out of Iran!....all for 15 minutes more of precious sleep! July 22, 2015
Baseball legend BILLY BEANE (right), on NBC’s Thomas Roberts becoming the first openly gay man to anchor the NBC Nightly News.
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JUST ADAM...
The real UBER story is starting to unfold The same folks who would never shop at Wal-Mart or eat at Chick-Fil-A are happy to turn a blind eye to the anti-competitive practices of UBER, a $50 billion company with legions of lobbyists pushing for a totally unregulated monopoly on ride-sharing. The truth is starting to come out that UBER’s business practices are not consumer friendly. A San Francisco judge just fined UBER $7,000,000.00 for not turning
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WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING... Random thoughts and quotes on Facebook this week
Adam Cohen is a social commentator with almost 5,000 Facebook friends. He lives in Wilton Manors, Fla. His column now appears weekly in the Florida Agenda. 3
A LOOK AT THE TOP STORIES OF THE WEEK CURATED BY DIEGO WYATT
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QUICK READ SCOTT WALKER SPEAKS OUT ON BOY SCOUT LEADERS Republican presidential contender Scott Walker is clearly struggling with the issue of gay Boy Scout leaders. The governor told the Independent Journal Review website the ban “protected children and advanced Scout values.”
July 22, 2015
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MIAMI BLOOD BANK UNDER FIRE Federal authorities have suspended the license of a Miami-area blood bank for violations that include improperly notifying donors who may have been HIV-positive. The FDA claims a Florida-based U.S. Blood Bank did not make “reasonable attempts” to notify at least 120 donors who tested reactive for HIV.”
SEXUAL ORIENTATION PROTECTED IN CIVIL RIGHTS ACT In a major step forward for LGBT civil rights, a federal agency has declared that workplace discrimination against gay and lesbian employees is unlawful because it violates existing federal law.
FOX FILMS BUYS RIGHTS TO BOOK ABOUT SAME-SEX RULING The lead plaintiff in the landmark Supreme Court case that made gay marriage a nationwide right has a book deal. Moreover, 20th Century Fox announced it had acquired rights to Obergefell’s story for a film about the Supreme Court case.
DAVID JOLLY ANNOUNCES RUN FOR US SENATE Florida Congressman David Jolly announced Monday that he’s running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Marco Rubio, who is running for president.
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WHAT CAITLYN DID I
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It’s not just about one person. It’s about thousands of people. It’s not just about me. It’s about all of us accepting one another... CAITLYN JENNER accepting the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPYs in Los Angeles last week. July 22, 2015
1976 SUMMER OLYMPICS, Bruce Jenner made every American proud when he won gold in track, set a world record in the decathlon, and left no doubt he was a champion. Almost four decades later, in front of a packed auditorium at By the ESPYs last week in Los Angeles and a television audience PETER of millions, a ravishing 65-year-old transgender Caitlyn Jenner JACKSON left no doubt she was, indeed, still a champion. Jenner’s journey from All American Boy, track star and heartthrob of the nation to a radiant woman appearing stunning on stage in a white Versace gown is one that has since had American talking. CONTINUED N THE
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THE NEXT EQUAL RIGHTS BATTLE HAS JUST BEGUN.
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T R A N S
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NEWSWATCH SPECIAL REPORT
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NEWSWATCH SPECIAL REPORT | TRANS
IN AMERICA
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WHAT CAITLYN DID CONTINUED from previous page
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For Caitlyn, it must have felt like another Olympic moment. She turned the spotlight squarely and purposefully on a subject not previously discussed at the nation’s dinner table: the until-now silent ‘T’ for transsexual in LGBT. Caitlyn had the attention of millions – and the standing ovation she received on conclusion proved she opened minds, provoked new thought and earned a measure of respect. “All across this country, right now, all across the world, at this very moment, there are young people coming to terms with being transgender,” she said. “They’re learning that they’re different, and they are trying to figure out how to handle that, on top of every other problem that a teenager has. “They’re getting bullied, they’re getting beaten up, they’re getting murdered and they’re committing suicide. The numbers that you just heard before are staggering, but they are the reality of what it is like to be trans today.” She’s right. The plight of trans men and women in America is one that has been invisible for too long. The stories of young transgendered men and women choosing to commit suicide rather than deal
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with a cruel, unaccepting world – or being murdered through ignorance and intolerance – are too often met with inaction if not apathy. That is unacceptable. Whether or not you think Caitlyn deserved the Arthur Ashe Courage ESPY Award (named for the African-American tennis star who died of AIDS in 1993), the fact is she hit the ball out of the park by using the opportunity to call FILE PHOTO attention to a previously taboo Ashley Brundage in Tampa, Fla., is excelling at work subject – at the same time and life as a transgendered woman. She has twice giving hope and inspiration to been nominated for “Woman of the Year” by the tens of thousands of trans and Tampa Bay Business Journal. trans-questioning youth and adults. support for herself and the trans comI didn’t know the man, of course, but munity. I have a feeling Arthur Ashe would Ashley Brundage, who transitioned in have liked the idea of that. 2010, is climbing the corporate ladder at PNC Bank where she has been ASHLEY’S JOURNEY showered by her employer with welldeserved awards for excellence. (Not udos to Caitlyn Jenner for using incidentally, PNC Bank scores a perfect her notoriety to forge social 100 on the Human Rights Campaign change, but closer to home, in Index.) Tampa, Fla., there is an outstanding She is the president of the Tampa Bay transgendered woman who is also earnGay and Lesbian Chamber of Coming a staggering level of respect and
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merce, serves on numerous boards including the Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, the Ybor Youth Clinic and TransAction Florida, and in 2013 was named one of Tampa Bay’s “Community Leaders Under 35” in the LGBT community. That’s just the beginning. Ashley was nominated for the 2014 and 2015 Tampa Bay Business Journal “Woman of the Year” award and was named one of 14 “Most Remarkable People of 2014” by Watermark magazine, the well-respected LGBT publication of Central Florida. This young transgendered woman is involved in countless other boards and organizations and is a tireless advocate, educator and national speaker on transsexual issues and workplace equality and diversity. She has been has been married to Whitney for 12 years. Together they have two sons ages 9 and 7. Ashley Brundage’s story as a transgendered woman, business professional, community leader, activist and parent isn’t typical. And it is inspiring. Ashley is living her life in her own truth — with pride, devotion, selflessness and, yes, courage. Some might say just like Caitlyn.
July 22, 2015
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WHAT CAITLYN SAID...
Here are highlights of the speech Caitlyn Jenner made at the ESPYs held in Los Angeles last week: “...The real truth is, before a few months ago, I had never met anybody else who was trans, who was like me. I had never met a trans person, never. Now, as you just saw, I dealt with my situation on my own in private, and that turned this journey into an already incredible education. “It’s been eye-opening, inspiring, but also frightening. All across this country, right now, all across the world, at this very moment, there are young people coming to terms with being transgender. They’re learning that they’re different, and they are trying to figure out how to handle that, on top of every other problem that a teenager has. “They’re getting bullied, they’re getting beaten up, they’re getting murdered and they’re committing suicide. The numbers that you just heard before are staggering, but they are the reality of what it is like to be trans today. “Just last month, the body of 17-year-old Mercedes
Williamson, a transgendered young woman of color, was found in a field in Mississippi stabbed to death. I also want to tell you about Sam Taub, a 15-year-old transgendered young man from Bloomfield, Michigan. In early April, Sam took his own life. Now, Sam’s story haunts me in particular because his death came just a few days before my interview with Diane Sawyer. Every time something like this happens, people wonder, ‘Could it have been different if spotlighting this issue with more attention could have changed the way things happen?’ We’ll never know. “My plea to you tonight is to join me in making this one of your issues as well. How do we start? We start with education. I was fortunate to meet Arthur Ashe a few times, and I know how important education was to him. Learn as much as you can about another person to understand them better. “I know the people in this room have respect for hard work, for training, for going through something difficult to achieve the outcome that you desire. I trained hard, I competed hard, and for that, people respected me.
“But this transition has been harder on me than anything I could imagine. And that’s the case for so many others besides me. For that reason alone, trans people deserve something vital. They deserve your respect. And from that respect comes a more compassionate community, a more empathetic society and a better world for all of us. “And now, as of this week, it appears that trans people will soon be serving in the military. That’s a great idea. We have come a long way. But we have a lot of work to do. “So for the people out there wondering what all this is about — whether it’s about courage or controversy or publicity — well, I’ll tell you what it’s all about. It’s about what happens from here. It’s not just about one person. It’s about thousands of people. It’s not just about me. It’s about all of us accepting one another. We are all different. That’s not a bad thing, that’s a good thing and while it may not be easy to get past the things you do not understand, I want to prove that it is absolutely possible if we only do it together.
The shadow cast by Caitlyn Jenner
‘It took courage’
Bishop S.F. Makalani-MaHee, a transgendered man living in Fort Lauderdale, was the youngest commissioned pastor in Unity Fellowship Church history. He is also the founder and chair for Black Gay Pride South Florida. The bishop has had a long and successful career in the arts as a classically-trained actor, dancer, and singer FILE PHOTO in musical theater. He has taught theater courses as well as lectured for Georgia State University, Soapstone Center for the Performing Arts and Spelman and Morehouse Colleges in Atlanta, Ga. Here, exclusively for Agenda readers, is his reaction to Cailyn Jenner’s award: Q: The decision by ESPN to award Caitlyn Jenner with the Arthur Ashe Courage ESPY Award, named for tennis star who died of AIDS in 1993, has been controversial. Is Jenner worthy of the award for courage in your opinion? Why? A: Unequivocally she is deserving and worthy and exemplifies the courage it took for Arthur Ashe to be open about his HIV status. The same way Caitlyn Jenner is allowing us to be witness to her truth in being transgender. Q: It took Jenner, who is 65 years old, decades of inner conflict to transition. At what age did you realize the need to transition? A: I was 39, about to turn 40, when that need to transition became persistent and insistent. For me feeling that I had lived nearly 40 years unauthenically, I [recognize] the courage it took CJ at 65 after children and grandchildren to totally shift who she was, not only to herself, but to everyone around her, [including] the whole entire nation.
you feel you are. That education, that lack of understanding, that lack of tolerance, can cause someone to question.
Q: What are the biggest obstacles you have had to overcome? A: Like Caitlyn Jenner, I am blessed that my challenges were not the same most transgender people experience. Challenges with employment, healthcare, mental healthcare are all vital components of successful transition. I was blessed to work for a progressive LGBT organization. I was blessed that my employer provided mental health care that was affordable. I definitely have family challenges like most transgender people do but I would take those family challenges over not having a roof over my head or healthcare any day. Q: Jenner said in her speech, “Trans people deserve something vital: They deserve your respect.” Why does society have such a hard time accepting trans people? A: Because of the fear of the unknown. This trans phenomenon is not a conversation we have had in America before. It takes the courage of Caitlyn Jenner who has been an icon, sports phenomenon and household name for decades to prove to everyone we don’t have to fear the unknown. Caitlyn proved that we could be your father, your spouse, your brother or your sister. We are people you know! Q: What advice would you give to anyone, but especially a teenager, who realizes they don’t feel comfortable in their own bodies, with their own identity? A: Number one be true to yourself. Be courageous and authentic and know that you do not have to be anything other than what makes you comfortable. There no boxes that one has to squeeze themselves into. Know that there is a community. A lot of trans people fear that no one is going to love us, worry that we won’t have friends, that we won’t have relationships, that we won’t have family. That we will be alone. I have met people who are the only trans people in town and they have built a community. We have a community, we have relationships, we have friends, we have family, we have “normal” lives.
July 22, 2015
Q: Did you ever question your innerstrength to complete the transition? A: There have been times. Because only 8% of the population knows someone who is transgender, people do not understand or understanding what it is like. They do not understand the way
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ated social anxieties related to the or decades, the face most peounique array of cultural constructs ple have associated with the they face daily. Indeed, it was a LGBTQ community has been giant leap for Caitlyn Jenner, and Caucasian—an Aryan archetype reone small step for transgender indiinforced by all forms of media from viduals around the world. films to Facebook. Close your eyes In an open letter, Orange is New and think about it for proof positive Black star Selenis Leyva, who has a of the previous statement. With any number of sister who identifies high profile individuas transgender and als coming out of the stars alongside accloset every year, all tress Lavern Cox in of the associated letthe hit Netflix series, ters in the rainbowreacted to Jenner’s sprinkled acronym triumphant coming seemed to have been out tale. In the honest piece originally pubcovered when it came lished by Huffington to boasting a celebrity Post, Leyva admascot, except for the dressed the very real ’T.” Enter Caitlyn By issue of race and acJenner. cess as it relates to Caitlyn Jenner’s inDIEGO the transgender comternet-breaking Vanity WYATT munity. Fair cover and her ac“I feel sadness companying coming today because the out story signaled a majority of the trans community great many things, including open and honest conversation about gencannot afford the numerous surgerder identity and what it means to be ies needed in order to somehow be transgender in today’s society, as accepted by society,” Leyva wrote. well as what it’s like to come to “In fact, many struggle to simply get terms with one’s gender identity decent health care. So yes…I, like millions, celebrated the Vanity later in life. The outpour of support Fair cover. and backlash Today I hope from Jenner’s Jenner is reaping the we don’t lose introduction to benefits earned through sight that this the world not the helped land the struggles of so many isnorm for your each of these nameless transgender average Transtopics on the gender pertips of collecindividuals who came son.” tive tongues before her and blazed Leyva throughout the echoes the world. As such, pathways without any sentiments of many received many individtheir first intro- recognition let alone a uals who idenduction to a tify with the trans-identified magazine cover... LGBTQ comindividual in the munity and live far outside of the form of Jenner, who just so happens to be an Olympian and reality star to blinding glare of Hollywood lights boot. and the unyielding gaze of the entire Jenner’s meteoric ascension into world. In many ways Jenner’s revethe spotlight left a number of indilation was an indirect attempt to reassure us all that we are not alone, viduals in the dark—namely transbut she managed to alienate some gender individuals of color who individuals in the process. have limited resources, seemingly insurmountable barriers to accessing CONTINUED on page healthcare, and a number of associ-
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OUT OF THE DARKNESS
IN AMERICA
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NEWSWATCH SPECIAL REPORT | TRANS
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8 July 22, 2015
NEWSWATCH SPECIAL REPORT
The shadow cast by Caitlyn Jenner CONTINUED from previous page
Jenner is the tip of the iceberg, shin- And then more broadly to promote a ing just above the surface. For those very simple idea: accepting people for who are unfamiliar, she is all there is who they are. Accepting people’s difto see. Underneath, however, is a mas- ferences.” sive structure that is often overlooked. Jenner went on to mention a pair of And it is strong and resilient. transgender youth, Mercedes Jenner stands on the shoulders of Williamson, 17, and Sam Taub, 15, many, including Janet Mock, Chaz whose lives were cut short by violence Bono, Candis Cayne, and Renée and suicide, respectively. In doing so, Richards among innumerable others, Jenner illuminated the fact that the who have paved the way for Jenner’s work does not stop here. Her story is breakthrough story by upping the visinot reflective of the majority, and there is still so much more work to do. But bility of trans-identified individuals in it’s a start. media. “So for the people out there wonderMore importantly, however, Jenner ing what this is all about — whether is reaping the benefits earned through it’s about courage or controversy or the struggles of so many nameless publicity — well, I’ll tell you what it’s transgender individuals who came all about,” Jenner said. “It’s about before her (and continue to do great what happens work today) and from here. It’s blazed pathJenner’s journey has been not just about ways without one person, it’s any recognition nothing but inspiring and she about thoulet alone a maghas handled the public scrutiny sands of peoazine cover. ple. It’s not just On the heels masterfully, but let us not of the July about me, it’s 26 debut of her about all of us forget about all of our transE! reality one identified brothers, sisters, and accepting series, I Am another. We are Cait, many are gender non-conforming family all different. That’s not a already touting members (of color and bad thing, Jenner as the that’s a good latest, greatest otherwise) who don’t enjoy thing. And and most recogthe privilege, the access, or while it may nizable face not be easy to within the trans- the primetime coverage that get past the gender commuCaitlyn enjoys. things you alnity. With such ways don’t unan attribution derstand, I want to prove that it is comes a great deal of responsibility, absolutely possible if we only do it tothe weight of which fell squarely on gether.” the shoulders of Jenner as mentioned Jenner’s journey has been nothing in her inspiring ESPY Awards acceptbut inspiring and she has handled the ance speech. public scrutiny masterfully, but let us “If there is one thing I do know not forget about all of our trans-identiabout my life, it is the power of the spotlight,” said Jenner as she accepted fied brothers, sisters, and gender nonthe Arthur Ashe Award for Courage. conforming family members (of color and otherwise) who don’t enjoy the “Sometimes it gets overwhelming, but with attention comes responsibility. As privilege, the access, or the primetime coverage that Caitlyn enjoys. a group, as athletes, how you conduct All of our stories are important, and your lives, what you say, what you do, none of us has reached equality until is absorbed and observed by millions we all have. of people, especially young people. I know I’m clear with my responsibility Diego Wyatt is the new managing going forward, to tell my story the editor of Guy magazine and the soonright way — for me, to keep learning, to-be-launched LGBTQ supersite to do whatever I can to reshape the WiRLD.com. He welcomes comments landscape of how trans issues are at DiegoWyatt@MMPLGBT.com viewed, how trans people are treated.
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July 22, 2015
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THE AGENDA INTERVIEW
| WITH PETER JACKSON
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Doing more for LGBTQ business
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The rise, and rise, of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
July 22, 2015
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KEITH BLACKBURN After relocating to South Florida from Washington, D.C. in 2003, KEITH BLACKBURN founded Rainbow Realty, Inc. drawing on his 25-plus years experience as a real estate broker, specializing in personalized real estate services. In 2005, he fulfilled a dream by purchasing, renovating and creating a unique boutique resort. The historical Fort Lauderdale property, built in 1928, became Mary’s Resort – an award-winning upscale boutique resort. In 2011, he founded of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (GFLGLCC), where he currently serves as president/CEO. Prior to the GFLGLCC, he was chair of the Rainbow Alliance of Greater Fort Lauderdale, which was retired with the launch of the GFLGLCC. Recently, Blackburn was appointed to the National Board of Truth Wins Out (TWO), a non-profit organization that works to demolish the very foundation of anti-gay prejudice. He also serves on the board of the Community Relations Council at Broward Health, Imperial Point.
Q: The GFLGLCC was founded just four years ago but has grown impressively and today plays an important role in Fort Lauderdale’s GLBTQ community. What do you consider your biggest accomplishments? A: We have a very strong partnership with the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitor’s Bureau (CVB) and with that, we work together to promote leisure tourism, group and conference travel to Broward County. For the past three years, we’ve published a travel guide, which funds the initiative and provides helpful information to our visitors. For the latest edition, we doubled the print run and expanded the guide to 96 pages. In 2012, the GFLGLCC was named a “Collaborating Partner” in the historic, first ever U.S. Department of Commerce Certified LGBT Trade Mission to Colombia. I represented Greater Fort Lauderdale in Bogotá, where we explored Colombian trade, along with travel and tourism opportunities to Greater Fort Lauderdale. I also participated as a delegate in the Inaugural LGBT Summit of the Americas and the launch of the Colombian LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Since then, our chamber and the Colombian chamber entered into an ongoing partnership agreement. I am especially excited to welcome our international partners to Fort Lauderdale next month. Recently, I traveled to Lima Peru with the NGLCC to help launch the Peruvian LGBT Chamber of Commerce and attended the 3rd LGBT Summit of the Americas. With 95% of global consumers outside of the US border, it is important to think in an international way. Promoting our destination and member business should have no geographical limits. With the expansion of the Fort Lauderdale airport, we are now home to the fastest growing international terminal. The number-one international destination is now Colombia! Not too long ago, it was the Bahamas. Our Community Partnerships are an extremely important component of the chamber. We are proud to work with 20 different 501(c)3 organizations like the Pride Center, Poverello, World AIDS Museum, Stonewall Museum & Archives, AHF and more. As a side note, I’m excited to say that our bowling team for Poverello’s Bowling to Fight Hunger fundraiser is, so far, the top fundraising team this year! Last year, we came in #2. I believe it is important to give back to the community by supporting these organizations. Last, but not least, we couldn’t do what we do without our corporate partnerships. Unlike our
memberships, we customize all of our partnerships to meet the goals and needs of our partners. One of the most recognizable benefits our partners get is the ability to host a large event, like the Quarterly Networking Luncheon. In the past month, we’ve added seven new corporate partners. Q: The GFLGLCC just announced a major partnership with Equality Florida. Tell us about it… A: We’ve always supported the great work that Equality Florida does. Nadine Smith (Equality Florida’s Executive Director) does a brilliant job of creating change. When I heard about the “Another Business For Equality” initiative, I approached Nadine. Joining forces made great sense for both organizations. The initiative spotlights pro-equality businesses that maintain and promote LGBT inclusive nondiscrimination policies and support local and statewide nondiscrimination laws. All GFLGLCC members will have the $50 administration fee waived when they participate in the program. Their business gets listed on the website and mobile app, so they get promoted to consumers who are looking for pro-equality businesses. Q: It’s quite an honor for Fort Lauderdale to have been selected as the venue for the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce annual convention next month. What are the highlights of the event? A: The NGLCC conference is the largest LGBT business development event in the world. We expect more than 800 LGBT and allied entrepreneurs, business owners, corporate representatives, and LGBT chamber leaders from across the country and around the globe. 150 Fortune 500 companies will be represented! For our chamber, the highlight will be the welcome reception on August 11th. I’m very proud of the way it’s come together. We have 26 combined corporate partners and event sponsors, so there’s lots of support. AHF is the presenting sponsor. The conference itself will feature three days of symposia, panel discussions, development seminars, matchmaker meetings, networking and special. Personally, I’m looking forward to seeing Suze Orman, who will speak at one of the luncheons. The full agenda with detailed information can be found at nglcc.org/nglcc15 CONTINUED on facing page
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July 22, 2015
Q: Who should attend the NGLCC Q: Among your regular events is a event? quarterly luncheon. Who attends the A: The conference offers a lot and on luncheons and what’s the benefit? several levels. First, there is the educaA: What’s great about our Quarterly tional aspect, then there’s the ability to Networking Luncheons is that you’ll alconnect your business to others and ways meet new people. I’m not sure last, networking. I suggest people first how we did it, but we always have a take a look at the agenda and if they great mix of people. Everyone’s have any questions, feel free to contact friendly and what makes our luncheons me at keith@gflglcc.org. I will be unique is that we encourage everyone happy to go over specific advantages to stand up and briefly introduce himfor your business. The cost of small self or herself. Our sponsors usually business registration to the conference speak briefly, which allows more netis $599 to our members (LGBT Certiworking and introductions. The benefit fied members pay $549) and $699 for is connecting with more people. non-members. This includes the networking Q: What are events, luncheons, etc. your plans for For the best outcome, The NGLCC conference is the be prepared to attend GFLGLCC’s the entire conference. the largest LGBT business growth in the development event in the next five years Q: Why is it benefior so? world. We expect more cial for a local busiA: From the ness – particularly a than 800 LGBT and allied start, I have alsmall business with ways focused on entrepreneurs, business the quality of 10 employees or fewer – to become a the chamber and owners, corporate member of the what we can representatives, and GFLGLCC? offer our memA: The chamber offers LGBT chamber leaders bers. This is different benefits to why our from across the country NGLCC affiliadifferent business types. In addition, for and around the globe... tion was so critibusinesses that are at cal. This was least 51% LGBT approved at the owned and managed, inception, so we offer LGBT Certifiright away we cation through our were able to unique partnership with the NGLCC. offer a unique set of benefits. This great benefit comes at no addiSecondary is the number of members. tional cost to our members and opens Many people judge a successful chamdoors to corporate America and many ber by the number of members and government agencies. One of our mem- while this is this is important our pribers was recently awarded a $4,000,000 mary focus hasn’t been on that. Buildcontract as a result. That’s huge! In ading on our reputation and offering more dition to networking, advocacy and programing are all part of the 5-year business promotion on our new website plan. Some specific goals include larger and smart phone app, we are the excluoffice space with workstations and a sive Broward County affiliate of the conference room for member use, a NGLCC – National Gay and Lesbian business certification program for our Chamber of Commerce. All hospitality businesses and an annual GFLGLCC members receive full mem- gala dinner. We have some other things bership and benefits without having to in the works, so look for some upcompay extra dues. Through the NGLCC ing announcements. and our new partnership with Equality Florida, we strive to keep our members Q: What’s the best time to join the informed of trends, common practices GFLGLCC? What is the process? and legislation that may affect them, A: There’s no time like the present! both personally and professionally. Our Our memberships run 12-months from annual memberships still start at just the day you join, so there’s no need to $250 per year – we haven’t raised the wait for the beginning of the month, dues since we were founded. We also etc. It’s really easy to join via our weboffer non-profit rates of $150 and $250 site, GoGayFortLauderdale.com! per year.
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July 22, 2015
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being considered “criminal” and “sick” to I was born in 1966. Shortly thereafter, the LBGT movement in the U.S. was ener- being mainstream (in the U.S.), recoggized as never before and began to change nized as part of the normal diversity of life, and deserving of equal protection and the world. opportunity (even if we have 4In 1968, the Metropolinot yet fully achieved equal tan Community Churches treatment in every area and were born as a movement by function of society). and with a primary affirming In addition to these hard won outreach to same-gender lovand well deserved gains for lesing people and their allies. bian and gay folk, the falseness Today, there are several of gender binaries are being Christian and Jewish denomdiscussed openly today and we inations that affirm the saare learning that not only do we cred value of same-gender Dr. Durrell’s contribute to the world’s diverloving people, but in 1968 sity, but our own community is such an affirmation was rare. Spiritual more diverse than some ever 4In 1969 the Stonewall Prescriptions imagined. Riots occurred and the Gay So much change in less than and Lesbian community a half a century is staggering; it would never be silenced or is little wonder that some people are completely hidden ever again. 4In 1970 the Unitarian Universalist As- frightened by the long and growing list of significant changes (a plethora of Right sociation passed a gay rights resolution Wing blogs document the angst that many and the first Gay Pride parades were held still have about our community). in major US cities. 4In 1972 the world’s first LBGT synaQUEER YOUTH gogue was founded, as was PFLAG. And while I have (some) compassion 4In 1973 homosexuality stopped being for those who find their impending loss of considered a mental illness by the Ameriheteronormative privilege frightening, I can Psychiatric Association. dare not believe that we have achieved 4In 2000 Vermont became the first enough, that our work is done, that Queer state in the U.S. to offer “civil unions”, a near-equivalent to marriage for same-gen- youth no longer need positive role models, that adversaries of equality will accept the der loving people. changes graciously, that more protections 4In 2003 Sodomy laws were struck aren’t needed, or that LBGT people bedown. yond our own borders don’t need allies 4In 2004 Massachusetts became the and advocates. first state to recognize same-sex marWe have worked miracles in just a few riages. decades, but we must not become compla4In 2011 “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was cent. repealed.4 Our achievements should remind us that In 2013 a key part of the so-called “Dewe can (and must) collectively continue to fense of Marriage Act” was defeated. change the world. And in 2015 the U.S. became the 19th country to have nationwide marriage Rev. Dr. Durrell Watkins is the Senior equality. Marriage is now an equal right Minister of Sunshine Cathedral in Fort rather than a heterosexual privilege. Lauderdale. In my life so far, gays have gone from
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The Florida Agenda welcomes letters, e-mails and Facebook comments on any subject which may be of interest to our readers all over Florida. Please keep your comments brief (under 300 words), provide your name and city, and include a daytime telephone number in case we need to reach you. Send your letters to Mail@MMPLGBT.com
Friday June 26, 2015: a day and relationship with God and you certainly can’t be ordained. God just date that changed the world. It is one of those lifetime events wouldn’t have it that way. I have gotten into very heated where we will not only remember where we were, but our own reac- debates on who I see as God and in tions when the Supreme some instances give Court of the United States my thought on WWJD ruled in favor of same-sex (What Would Jesus marriage nationwide. Do) in today’s world. With celebration is a Those who I someharsh reality accompanytimes call Sunday ing this long-awaited deChristians (one who is cision: disdain, insult, holier than thou in injury and sheer hatred tochurch on Sunday and wards us. In 2015 it’s hard totally opposite any All Things to believe people still can other day of the week) be this way. try everything in their Considered power to discredit me Being a minister, what I and anyone who have been reading about thinks along the lines I and personally experiencdo. To them, we are ing these past few weeks has me ashamed of some of those 1,000% wrong and no matter what who identify as pastors, ministers proof we may come up with, our or any other religious role. lives are of little to no value, simMany of the comments have ply because we are gay. been vile, degrading, false and To these persons, being gay and showing people will say just about a Christian is an oxymoron. I toanything to make themselves look tally disagree, because I believe like a hero to a group of people God created each of us to be who who don’t know any better. We we are. have to realize, that many of those I have proof: I am who I am and who are against same-gender rela- there is no other explanation why I tions (I prefer the term over same- am gay. Sadly, there are many who were sex), don’t know any better. Some of these people were raised to be- once religious who have left the lieve we are pedophiles, mentally church because of how they were ill, perverts, sex fiends and sins treated. Their beliefs were deagainst the bible to name a few. stroyed and they were beaten with I am not condoning or making the very bible they learned from. excuses for them. But lives are Fortunately, times move forward molded by our upbringing and and more religious entities are those we grew up around. Some of open and affirming, which means our very habits and thoughts are for you are welcome there and celebrated no matter who you are. those reasons alone. I read blogs, am out in the com- More houses of worship are openmunity and certainly don’t hide ing, allowing for a renewed faith in who I am: a gay ordained minister, religion. It’s a wonderful thing! who is out in the world doing Rev. Joel S. Slotnick is an orGod’s work for over two decades. To many “Anti’s”, my work is dained Interfaith minister and a considered impossible, because digital court reporter for the state they feel you can’t be gay, have a of Florida.
July 22, 2015
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AS I SEE IT
It’s much more than putting on a dress C
AITLYN JENNER WON the Arthur Ashe Courage Award on the ESPY Awards last week, and was broadcast live on ABC Television for the first time in its history. It drew 7.7 million viewers (last year’s event pulled in 2.2 million when it aired on its namesake ESPN). Among those viewing was comedian D.L. Hughley, who wasn’t impressed by the choice of Jenner for the honor named after a tennis star who courageously fought off HIV (most likely caught from a blood transfusion). “(All) Caitlyn Jenner did was put on a dress. It’s just not the same thing,” D.L. told TMZ. On that we agree. NBC commentator Bob Costas added his curmudgeonly humph. ““It strikes me that awarding the Arthur Ashe Award to Caitlyn Jenner is just a crass exploitation play — it’s a tabloid play,” he said. “In the broad world of sports, I’m pretty sure they could’ve found someone — and this is not anything against Caitlyn Jenner — who was much closer actively involved in sports, who would’ve been deserving of what that award represents. ESPN was essentially buying into the Keeping Up With the Kardashians culture that has overtaken a good part of the cultural landscape.” Yet both Costas and Hughley got it completely wrong. Jenner is a sports
legend—perhaps even a bigger legend than Arthur Ashe himself. While we all know Jenner won the Men’s Decathalon at the Montreal Olympic Games in 1976, few know that he won the AAU title in 1974, and was the 1975 PanAm Champion as well. In that meet, he set a world record against the USSR and Poland. In 1978, just weeks before the Olympic win, he copped the AAU title again. Still, the ESPY Awards are not about athletics; they are about courage. Not just physical courage that we witness in wartime and within the heroics of police and firefighters. The ESPY kind of courage calls for personal integrity that puts ourselves second so that others may prosper or endure, or merely live. This is Caitlyn Jenner and this is the ESPYS. “As a group, as athletes, how you conduct your lives, what you say, what you do, is absorbed and observed by millions of people — especially young people,” Jenner told the assembled crowd last week. “I know I’m clear with my responsibility going forward, to tell my story the right way. For me to keep learning, to do whatever I can to reshape the landscape of how trans issues are viewed, how trans people are
By RICHARD HACK
treated, and then more broadly, to promote a very simple idea: Accepting people for who they are, accepting people’s differences.” On the concept of respect, Jenner was no less demanding. “Trans people deserve something vital: They deserve your respect. And from that respect, comes a more compassionate community, a more empathic society, and a better world for all of us.” Transgendered youth got a special shout out: “If you wanna call me names, make jokes, doubt my intentions, go ahead. Because the reality is, I can take it. But for the thousands of kids out there coming to terms with being true to who they are, they shouldn’t have to take it.”
And, of course, Jenner is right. But the bullish comments will come anyway—from the ignorants, from the comedians, and even from educators who mean well, but are desperately misinformed. “So for the people out there wondering what this is all about — whether it’s about courage or controversy or publicity … it’s about what happens from here. It’s not just about one person. It’s about thousands of people. It’s not just about me. It’s about all of us accepting one another. We’re all different; that’s not a bad thing, it’s a good thing.” And that is a lot more than pulling on a dress.
KEVIN MILLER
Both Costas and Hughley got it completely wrong. Jenner is a sports legend —perhaps even a bigger legend than Arthur Ashe himself...
July 22, 2015 15
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Friday night, end of the week, ahhhh Release the worries of
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NATION
Court Hears Dismissal Arguments In Idaho Wedding Chapel Case
BOISE, ID (AP) - A Christian advocacy group is arguing that a federal judge should not dismiss their lawsuit against a northern Idaho city, challenging that the city’s antidiscrimination ordinance violates the wedding chapel owners’ religious rights. Attorneys on both sides of the issue presented their arguments in U.S. District Court on Monday. U.S. Magistrate Judge Ronald Bush is expected to issue a decision in the next few weeks.
July 22, 2015
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Rupert Murdoch’s Fox Films Buys Rights To Supreme Court’s Same-Sex Ruling NEW YORK (AP) - The lead plaintiff in the landmark Supreme Court case that made gay marriage a nationwide right has a book deal. William Morrow told The Associated Press on Monday that Jim Obergefell (OH’-burk-uh-fel) is collaborating with Washington Post journalist Debbie Cenziper on “21 Years to Midnight.” Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, plans a June 2016 release to mark the 5-4 ruling’s anniversary.
Clerk Prayed Over Decision To Stop Issuing Marriage Licenses
Judge Ronald Bush The Alliance Defending Freedom contends that the Coeur d’Alene ordinance compels Hitching Post owners Don and Lynn Knapp to perform same-sex marriages. Attorney Matt Sharp says the case needs to be heard in court to clarify the exemption process. Coeur d’Alene spokesman Keith Erickson countered that the lawsuit is unnecessary because the chapel is exempt from the city’s ordinance because it is registered as a religious organization. Photo: idahostatejournal.com
Photo: buzzfed.com Jim Obergefell Obergefell’s involvement in what became Obergefell v. Hodges originated with his desire to have his name listed as “surviving spouse” of the late John Arthur. Same-sex marriage had been illegal in Obergefell’s native Ohio. Earlier this month, 20th Century Fox announced it had acquired rights to Obergefell’s story for a film about the Supreme Court case. Both Fox and Morrow are part of Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp.
COVINGTON (AP) – A local elected official in a small Kentucky county testified Monday she could not issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples because signing the document would signal her approval of a union that violates her religious beliefs. Rowan County Clerk Kim Davis stopped issuing all marriage licenses June 27, one day after the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriages nationwide. Davis testified that she prayed and fasted for months before reaching the decision. The American Civil Liberties Union sued her on behalf of two gay couples and two straight couples. Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear instructed county clerks to begin issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples immediately. At least two clerks refused. Clerks are elected officials. They cannot be removed from office unless impeached by the state legislature. Impeachment appears unlikely, given the political climate in the state capital. The couples have asked U.S. District Judge David Bunning to order Davis to issue the marriage licenses. Bunning, who did not rule after the Monday hearing, could order Davis to issue licenses, and then fine her or put her in jail if she refuses. But he could not remove her from office. Davis said Monday she is a member of a local Apostolic church, which is part of the Christian faith. She said she believes the Bible is “God’s holy word” and that it defines marriage as strictly between one man and one woman. Kentucky law requires the county clerk to issue marriage licenses, or the local judge executive if the clerk is absent or the office is vacant. The licenses are valid for 39 days until someone — a minister or other qualified official — performs the ceremony and signs the form. The couple then returns the license to the clerk and has it recorded. The wording on the license says the couple is “hereby authorized” to get married. “If … I authorize that I’m saying I agree with it, and I can’t,” Davis said Monday in a sometimes tearful testimo-
ny before a packed courtroom. Questioned by her attorney Roger Gannam, a lawyer with the Floridabased Liberty Counsel, Davis said she does not believe sin disqualifies a person from getting married. Questioned by Dan Canon, an attorney for the couples seeking marriage licenses, Davis said she could not answer on whether she thought clerks could use their religious beliefs to withhold marriage licenses from interracial couples or couples who have been divorced. “I want to understand what your concept of discretion of a county clerk is. How far does it go?” Canon asked. Bunning asked Davis a series of questions that appeared to suggest he viewed the marriage license process as “simply telling the state the information in the form is accurate.” And he seemed to favor a solution where a deputy clerk’s name, instead of Davis’, would be on the license. Of the six people who work for her, Davis said one has said he or she would be willing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. But Davis said she could not ask her employees to do something she won’t do herself. And she said that out of loyalty to her employees, she would not resign. “If I resign, it solves nothing and helps nobody,” she said, especially when “there is a solution out there where everyone can be happy and no one is compromised in any way.” Her solution is for Beshear to call a special session of the state legislature to pass a law protecting county clerks, possibly by allowing people to receive marriage licenses from the state online. Beshear has declined to call the legislature back to Frankfort, citing the $60,000 per day cost to taxpayers. Bunning said the earliest he could rule would be mid-August. But it’s unclear how Davis — who has already ignored broader orders from the U.S. Supreme Court and the governor — would react to a judge’s order to issue marriage licenses. “I’ll deal with that when the time comes,” she said.
Cities Keeping Anti-Discrimination Measures Despite New Law crimination protections that only cover its employees and agencies. The only advisory opinion issued by Attorney General Leslie Rutledge about the law hasn’t specifically said whether the local ordinances adopted so far would be prohibited. Republican Rep. Bob Ballinger, who co-sponsored the law limiting the local anti-discrimination measures, said he didn’t believe Eureka Springs would continue enforcing its ordinance and said he viewed it mostly as a symbolic gesture. “I think they’d rather have the symbol of the ordinance on the books and not enforce it than face a legal challenge,” said Ballinger, whose district includes Eureka Springs. The Arkansas Family Council, a conservative group that backed the new state law, is considering challenging Little Rock’s ordinance in court and plans to reach out to vendors who may be affected by it. “We’re probably months away from a court case,” said the council’s president, Jerry Cox. The future of such ordinances could become even more muddled in the meantime, with the city of Fayetteville’s voters deciding in September whether to keep that city’s anti-discrimination ordinance.
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in May. “I don’t really anticipate any pushback because I can’t imagine a business wanting to do business with public money basically saying they will discriminate against the LGBT community.” Reaction has been equally muted in Eureka Springs, a northwestern Arkansas town that is simultaneously promoted as a gay-friendly tourist attraction and home to a popular outdoor play about Jesus’ last days. The only complaint accusing a business of violating the ordinance — for refusing to perform a same-sex wedding — was dismissed because the action was constitutionally protected, Mayor Robert “Butch” Berry said. “I don’t see this as an issue,” Berry said. “Eureka Springs has always been an open-minded and been accepting of people, so we’ve never had any complaints prior to this ordinance.” Enforcing the measures will likely prompt a challenge over a law and whether it goes as far as lawmakers intended. Little Rock’s attorney has argued that the state measure doesn’t prevent cities from enacting protections for LGBT people, since sexual orientation and gender identity are included in other parts of state law. The proposal doesn’t prevent a local government from adopting anti-dis-
July 22, 2015
LITTLE ROCK (AP) – Most Arkansas municipalities that have adopted broader anti-discrimination protections for gays and lesbians say they’ll keep enforcing the measures despite a new law taking effect this week intended to prohibit such ordinances. Little Rock, Hot Springs and Pulaski County officials say they don’t have any plans to stop enforcing their ordinances banning discrimination by their agencies or vendors based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Officials in Eureka Springs, which voted in May to keep a much broader ordinance that applies to the city and businesses, said they’re still considering the matter. The measures were approved over the past several months to challenge a law taking effect Wednesday that bans cities and counties from prohibiting discrimination on any basis not covered by state law. Arkansas’ civil rights law doesn’t include protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender people. Local leaders say so far, they’re finding little backlash to the expanded protections. “I haven’t heard from anyone who has said we won’t bid on city services if we have to check the box,” said David Watkins, city manager of Hot Springs, which approved its ordinance
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Photo: File
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Arkansas State Capitol Building
NEW YORK (AP) - Bristol-Myers said Tuesday that federal regulators will help speed up development for one of its experimental HIV drugs. The Food and Drug Administration designated the drug BMS-663068 as a breakthrough treatment, so Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. will get extra meetings with the FDA and earlier communication with scientists as it studies the drug. BMS-663068 is intended to be used with other antiretroviral drugs in adults who have already developed resistance to several other types of HIV treatments. Bristol-Myers is running late-stage clinical tests of the drug. There are six classes of HIV drugs, according to the National Institutes of Health, and patients are typically treated with drugs from at least two different classes at any given time. After years of treatment patients sometimes develop resistance to those drugs, and if they develop resistance to several types of drugs, their doctors may not be able to assemble an effective treatment regimen. Bristol-Myers is studying BMS663068 in patients who have two or fewer drug classes left available to them. The drug is designed to stick to HIV cells and stop them from binding to a type of white blood cell. The company says BMS-663068 doesn’t fit into the six current classes of HIV therapy. The company’s shares dipped 80 cents to $69.17 in afternoon trading. Bristol-Myers sells the HIV drugs Reyataz, one of its top products by revenue, and Evotaz, which was approved in January, and it is studying several other treatments for the disease. However it announced in June that it will end early-stage research in HIV as well as hepatitis B so it could focus on other fields, including drugs that stimulate the immune system to fight cancer.
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5 Bristol-Myers Days HIV Drug Gets FDA Incentives
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July 22, 2015
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July 22, 2015
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SUNSHINE STATE
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The Miami Foundation Staff
Photo: Facebook
$262,769 Donation To National LGBTQ Task Force FLORIDA CONGRESSMAN David Jolly
Photo:myorlando.com
July 22, 2015
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Florida Congressman David Jolly Announces Run for US Senate ST. PETERSBURG (AP) - Florida Congressman David Jolly announced Monday that he’s running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Marco Rubio, who is running for president. Jolly, a Republican who was elected to Congress in the spring of 2014, made the announcement to the media Monday morning. He was scheduled to hold a campaign rally later in the day. Jolly represents Florida’s 13th Congressional district, which encompasses almost all of Pinellas County on the Gulf Coast. He will face Florida Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera of Miami and Congressman Ron DeSantis of Jacksonville in the primary. Democratic Congressmen Patrick Murphy of Jupiter and Alan Grayson of Orlando are also seeking the seat. The race is expected to draw national attention because it gives Democrats a chance to pick up a seat in the Republican-controlled Senate.
During his 15 months in Congress, the 42-year-old Jolly has voiced support for same-sex marriage and voted against a GOP House plan because it called for dramatic changes to Medicare. “I do believe in personal freedom,” Jolly said Monday when asked about his stance on same-sex marriage. He added that his faith leads him to believe in “traditional marriage,” but that the constitution allows for both traditional and same sex marriage. Jolly said he will “reject the politics of division and class warfare that have defined the current Administration,” keep pushing for increased health care benefits for veterans and continue to criticize President Obama on his foreign policy. “We will not tolerate failed foreign policies and wavering alliances that leave America vulnerable to a dangerous treaty with Iran, weakness before our enemies and a failed policy to combat ISIS,” he said in a news release.
MIAMI--Nearly 200 business leaders, LGBTQ activists, and local community advocates joined the National LGBTQ Task Force last Thursday night as they presented The Miami Foundation with an annual donation that supports South Florida LGBTQ organizations. Russell Roybal, deputy executive director at the National LGBTQ Task Force, presented a giant check representing a donation of $262,769. The amount represents the single, largest donation the National LGBTQ Task Force has provided since its first major financial contribution to The Miami Foundation in 2005. “The National LGBTQ Task Force’s annual donation helps support local organizations that provide critical services such as suicide prevention and awareness, transgender health and wellness advocacy, LGBTQ youth homelessness outreach, an LGBTQ youth drop-in center, and a number of arts, educational and cultural programs, among others,” said Roybal. “With this year’s donation, the National LGBTQ Task Force’s has contributed more than $2.1 million to The Miami Foundation.” The donation is made possible by proceeds from the 2015 Winter Party Festival and the National LGBTQ Task Force Gala – Miami (formerly known as the “Miami Recognition Dinner”). Both events also help fund the National LGBTQ Task Force work to advance full freedom, justice and equality for LGBTQ people throughout the country. Rebecca Mandelman, Vice President for Strategy and Engagement of The
Miami Foundation, accepted the check at the reception hosted at Bacardi headquarters in Coral Gables. “We are extremely grateful to the Task Force and the hundreds of passionate volunteers and donors for their decade-long investment in Greater Miami,” Mandelman said. “As our nation turns a major corner on human rights, we’re privileged to help the Task Force champion this important change by supporting local community programs and the thousands of LGBT Miamians who benefit from them.” In 2014, the National LGBTQ Task Force’s donation was able to provide 24 South Florida organizations with grant funding. These organizations included: The Alliance for GLBTQ Youth, Aqua Foundation for Women, Center for the Advancement of Jewish Education, Citrus Health Network, City Theater, Equality Florida Institute, Family Counseling Services with Switchboard of Miami, FIU Foundation MPASLGBTQ Initiatives, FUNDarte, Lotus House Women’s Shelter, Miami Bridge Youth and Family Services, Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Pioneer Winter Collective, Pridelines Youth Services, Reading Queer, Safe Schools South Florida, SAVE Foundation, Survivors Pathway, Switchboard of Miami, Tigertail Productions, Unity Coalition/Coalicion Unida, and YES Institute
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SUNSHINE STATE
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MultiMedia Platforms Worldwide CEO Bobby Blair (left) with his life partner Brian Neal.
The City of Miami Downtown Area
Photo: File
FDA Shuts Down Miami-Area Blood Bank For Multiple Violations
FORT LAUDERDALE -- Bobby Blair, founder and CEO of Multimedia Platforms Worldwide, former professional athlete, real estate guru and a stalwart supporter of the LGBTQ community, is to be inducted into the GLBT Hall of Fame. This honor was announced by Len Rogers of the Stonewall Society. The honor comes as Blair is taking his company to new heights as the only publicly-traded multimedia company on the New York Stock Exchange. This year alone, MMP has acquired FunMaps, a print and digital LGBTQ travel guide distributed in 40 North American cities, as well as Next magazine, the largest circulation entertainment guide in New York City. The company is poised to launch its new flagship entity, a mega web site called WiRLD.com, later this year. “I am truly humbled by this nomination and induction into the GLBT Hall of Fame. I set out many years ago to utilize my background and experiences as a professional athlete and businessman to impact the lives of those in the LGBTQ community,” said Blair, who published his emotional biog-
raphy, “Hiding Inside the Baseline” last year. The book recounts his struggles as a gay athlete in the 1970s and ‘80s. “I have continued that path through Multimedia Platforms by acquiring talent and great content to provide the community with one platform for all news, social interaction, multimedia, and business information. I want to thank Len as well as the Membership Board and look forward to attending the event in December.” Len Rogers of the StoneWall Society and GLBT Hall of Fame commented, “As a former professional athlete, Bobby Blair has worked tirelessly to promote tolerance in sports and to encourage young LGBT athletes to live their lives openly and honestly. Bobby has gone through the process of coming out as an athlete and has had a successful business career where today he is leading Multimedia Platforms as its CEO. He is a key supporter of many LGBT charities and causes, including the Brian Neal Fitness and Health Foundation, and we could not be happier to nominate him into the Hall of Fame.”
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tested reactive for Hepatitis B and C between September 2014 and February, according to the FDA. There’s little risk to the public because the potentially tainted blood was only shipped to research facilities, according to the company and FDA officials. “Due to the nature of the violations, FDA believes that there is little risk to blood and blood product recipients, and has found no evidence to suggest that these violations resulted in serious health consequences in recipients,” FDA spokeswoman Sarah Peddicord said. Federal officials also cited U.S. Blood Bank for failing to obtain written approval to ship blood to hospitals and other facilities both inside Florida and outside the state. Other violations included failures to check donors for skin punctures or scars that might indicate drug use and improper documentation for blood moved from malfunctioning refrigerators. The company had 10 days to respond to the violations listed in the letter. “We’re working very hard right now and by the end of next week we should have all of our paperwork submitted to the FDA,” said Hernandez. “We’re hoping to re-open.”
To be inducted into GLBT Hall of Fame
July 22, 2015
Doral (AP) - Federal authorities have suspended the license of a Miami-area blood bank for violations that include improperly notifying donors who may have been HIV-positive. The FDA claims a Florida-based U.S. Blood Bank did not make “reasonable attempts” to notify at least 120 donors who tested reactive for HIV.” It’s the first time the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has suspended a blood bank’s license in more than a decade. According to a July 9 letter from the FDA, Doral, Florida-based U.S. Blood Bank did not make “reasonable attempts” to notify at least 120 donors between August 2013 and May who tested reactive for HIV and would need another test to verify the results. In a statement to The Miami Herald, U.S. Blood Bank said “not one of our units for transfusion was deemed to be anything but pure and safe.” President Esther Hernandez said letters sent to the affected donors about the test results “weren’t aggressive.” “It was maybe our fault, but we didn’t want the donors to be scared,” she said. The company is working to address the violations and hopes to re-open, Hernandez said. U.S. Blood Bank also failed to adequately inform at least six donors who
BIG HONOR FOR BOBBY BLAIR
July 22, 2015
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Reach Your Peak Physique This Summer
CLIFF NOTES By Cliff Dunn
Apple Music: A Symphony in the (i)Clouds On June 30, Apple released the iOS 8.4 update, which included the much-anticipated Apple Music streaming service. It debuts in an already crowded field that includes Google Music, Spotify, Rdio, and Tidal. And although Apple offers a free, three-month trial to allow users to fall in love, it must compete with Spotify’s “freemium” model. (Sources say that Spotify may soon change its unlimited free, ad-supported access to a three-month period.) The attraction of Apple Music for users is obvious: You can listen to the tens of millions of tracks contained in the Apple Music catalog, either prompted by recommendations that are handpicked just for you, or through your own musical explorations. It is virtually like having access to every song ever recorded at your fingertips. As an Apple Music member, your library resides in the iCloud. Apple Music identifies the tracks in your personal collection, compares them to the library, and makes them instantly available in iCloud across all your devices. If you have music that’s not in the Apple Music library, the service uploads those songs from iTunes on your Mac or PC. (And since it’s stored in iCloud, it won’t take up space on your devices.) Apple Music members can add anything from the Apple Music library — songs, albums, and videos — to their collections. From that starting point, you can create playlists from what you’ve added, saving it for offline listening. Playlists, albums, and videos can be posted to Facebook, Twitter, and Messages. If you use Apple Music on your iOS, you can ask Siri to, “Play more songs like this,” or, “Add the new Taylor Swift album to my library.” If the intent was to overwhelm you with experts and content, Apple has succeeded. Apple Music has compiled playlists from the leading magazines, websites, and trendsetters in music, allowing you to get their recommendations on everything from indie mixes,
to classic rock compilations, through stations like Beats 1, which you can then add to your own collection with the tap of a finger. When you compare Apple Music to the other streaming services mentioned above, Apple simply has more content that’s better organized to browse using your phone screen. On the downside, Apple Music audio tracks max out at 256kbps (compared to the higher quality 320kbps of Spotify and Google Music). But with the technical and marketing juggernaut that Steve Jobs built standing behind it, the streaming service has a very bright future.
FEATURES s Apple offers a free, three-month trial to allow users to fall in love . s Listen to the tens of millions of tracks contained in the Apple Music catalog. s Music library resides in the iCloud. s Can add anything from the Apple Music library. s Can ask Siri to, “Play more songs .” s Apple has more content that’s better organized to browse using your phone screen.
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CAPITOL BEAT
Public Servants Should Serve The Public: And That’s Us Photo: wikipedia.com
July 22, 2015
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UNITED STATES CONGRESS
Public servant. Two simple words, easy to define. Or so you would think. A public servant serves the public. And the public is us. The public is everyone. In last week’s Agenda, we called for the removal of bigoted judges. And we asked the experts what the Constitution demands of our public servants. We learned that some of them are breaking the law. Now we learn that two so-called “lawmakers” want to legalize lawbreaking by sponsoring legislation to exempt county clerks from criminal or civil liability if they refuse to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Kentucky state representatives Stan Lee and David Meade, both Republicans, have filed a bill to do an end run around the Constitution of the United States. It will be considered in the January 2016 legislative session. It’s probably good that people who are suddenly waking up to the actual definition of “public servant” are quitting jobs they are entirely unsuited to. Or being told to resign. Because if you can’t hand over a piece of paper to a member of the public without having some curious crisis of conscience, then you are not a public servant. And you have to go. Think of it this way. Would it be reasonable for a Muslim county clerk to refuse to issue a marriage license to a Jewish couple? Or vice versa? Wouldn’t that be exercising “religious freedom?” No, it wouldn’t. It would be exercising religious discrimination. Same-sex marriage. Two more simple words. Or three, if you want to quibble about the hyphen. Another easy definition. Or so you would think. But apparently to the aforementioned “public servants” the meaning is not clear at all. So let’s explain it to them. It does not mean that you have to marry someone of your own gender. You just have to hand them a piece of paper that allows them to invite nicer
people than you to their wedding. As at lunch counters perpetuated racism. University of Virginia law professor Banning Jewish businesses was the first Douglas Laycock, explained it to the ghastly step toward the Nazi’s horrific Los Angeles Times, counties do not “Final Solution.” have religions. Besides, isolating and ostracizing But what about those Bolshie bakers people we disagree with has not proven to be very effective in curing prejudice and prejudiced pizza-makers? Aren’t and hatred. Education works better. they public servants too? Yes and no. They are not governed in the same way The more we talk to each other and disby the laws of the land, but they should cover each other’s humanity, the better chance we have of living be governed by some together in harmony. As sort of moral comactor Richard Gere just pass. Otherwise, that told Congress, in a differway discrimination ent context: “The world is lies. Their businesses built on dialogue.” are open to the public That is precisely what so yes, if you are a Monte Vines discovered. baker you need to Vines was an elder in a bake that wedding Presbyterian church in cake. You can pray Wichita, Kansas, when his for forgiveness later son Matthew came out to if you really believe him in 2010. It shocked your God discrimiand saddened him. He nates against certain By Linda suggested therapy. Matmembers of His Pentz thew suggested they study own creation, as you the Bible together. Vines claim. was convinced he would But should it work find condemnation of homosexuality in both ways? An acquaintance recently the Bible. He didn’t. So he changed told me that his gay son understood his mind. Not by boycotting anything why a cafe might choose not to serve but by getting educated. And because him. “My son said ‘its a tricky one,’” he was forced to confront his beliefs he recounted. “He said, ‘what if a by someone he loved. This reinforces neo-Nazi walked into your cafe? You should be able to refuse to serve them.’ the argument that coming out can do Well actually, no. Unpleasant though more to build acceptance than hiding in the closet and being “accepted” for it might be, you should serve the neosomeone you are not. Nazi. Because although the ConfederIn any case it’s an open question ate flag absolutely had to come down in Columbia, South Carolina, removing whether religion is the honest justification for refusing service to gays. Could it did not wipe out racism in the state. it in fact just be a convenient cover for And neo-Nazism won’t be eradicated the real objection: sex? by refusing its exponents crumb cake, Despite a culture that is profoundly much though we’d like to grind it into hooked on pushing highly sexual imagtheir hate-filled faces. es, whether in advertising or via twerkIt’s not really a fair comparison anyway. Last time we looked, gay people ing pop stars, there’s a double standard were not typically purveyors of hate, at play here. Because when it comes to unlike Nazis and Klansmen. Let’s gay sex......well, don’t you start to wonremember that refusing to serve blacks der whether the religious freedomistas
who protest a bit too much aren’t in fact afraid of some deep-seated uncertainty about their own sexuality? After all, this is a well-documented phenomenon — particularly among quite a substantial list of outspoken anti-gay pastors and politicians who stumbled publicly and were in fact revealed to be, yes, gay. When I was covering professional ice hockey years ago we were on the team bus traveling to an away game arena. The driver appeared to be lost and half the team began to shout directions. Finally, the youngest player on the squad stood up and made an announcement. “Coaches coach, players play, and bussies bus,” he said. The bus went quiet. The driver found the arena. And so it is that bakers bake; florists make bouquets; and photographers take pictures. And county clerks hand out marriage licenses. Privately they may worship whatever gods (or even monsters) they choose. That’s their personal right. Professionally, they have absolutely no right to impose their personal doctrines on others, thereby denying them their constitutional rights. That is what “religious freedom” should really mean. As Apple’s out CEO, Tim Cook, wrote in a Washington Post editorial earlier this year: ”I was never taught, nor do I believe, that religion should be used as an excuse to discriminate.” Nor should homosexuality, which has always been here (whether God planned it or not) and will always be here. So hand out those marriage licenses without the added dose of judgment. And let the bussies bus.
@
Linda Pentz is the Washington correspondent of the Florida Agenda. She can be contacted at lindapentz@mmplgbt.com. Follow her on Twitter @CapitolAgenda
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TRAVEL
By Jameer Baptiste
The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables
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Explore An Exotic Pool And The Open Waters Of Florida Let’s be honest. All of us Floridians might as well be considered aquatic mammals for as much as we frequent the beach or dive into one of the many private and public pools throughout our state. And you can’t blame us, because living on the subtropical peninsula surrounded by water and soaked by sunshine, the liquid gold constantly lures us in for a cooling dip. It’s a pastime tradition that we adore and will never grow tired of, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be a bit more adventurous from time to time. Going to the same beach or luxuriating at our usual pool is convenient and familiar, but it can get monotonous, which sometimes takes the fun out of the whole experience. So why not bring the excitement back to our aquatic adventures by exploring different swim locations throughout Florida?
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sParrot Island Scuba Adventures Parrot Island Scuba Adventures (2850 NE 14th St. Causeway Pompano Beach FL 33062; 954-942-7333) is an open water snorkeling and diving exploration site that is sure to breathe life back into your aquatic outings. The dive sites are clear warm waters with vegetation and marine life at every turn. It’s a common occurrence when diving there to come in close contact with sea turtles, different schools of fish, eels, and even whale sharks. The underwater world is mysterious yet captivating. You can explore one of Parrot Islands 30 different shipwrecks or gaze at one of their three majestic coral reef lines that radiate with bright
fluorescent shades of blue, red, orange and yellow. The family-owned business takes pride and joy in taking new adventure seekers out for their first Parrot Island excursion and welcomes regular divers by offering a diving club.
sParrot Cove Get back to being a kid again at Jungle Island’s Parrot Cove (1111 Parrot Jungle Trail Miami Florida 33132; 305-400-7000) water playground, Parrot Cove. Located in the open waters of Biscayne Bay, Parrot Cove is a beach experience like no other. Swimmers enjoy a complete obstacle course of slides, swings, catapults, rock climbing, balance beams and trampolines all while in the water. By the time you’ve explored every inch of the water contraption, you will have fulfilled a full body workout. Parrot Cove also has high-tech water toys (Aqua-Jets) for rent that propel you in midair and allow you to hover above the water. You can reach heights of up to 30 feet above the water’s surface with speeds as fast as 25 mph – how’s that for accelerating? To take advantage of the water toys, please book in advance (305-713-2692). Parrot Cove entrance is free with admission to Jungle Island.
sVenetian Pool The Venetian Pool (2701 de Soto Boulevard, Coral Gables, FL 33134 (305-460-5306) is a masterpiece of
Mediterranean design built in 1923. Since then, the stunning pool has become a Coral Gables landmark included in the National Register of Historic Places-- the only swimming pool with such designation. Everything about the 820,000-pool screams old world architecture from the two natural limestone waterfalls and cave-like grottos to the rustic bridges and two observation towers. The Venetian Pool is a true classic gem. The pool’s seasonal operation ends in September for this year.
sFalling Waters State Park In the Northwest region, you will find Florida’s tallest waterfall at Falling Waters State Park (1130 State Park Road Chipley FL 32428; 850638-6130). The 73-foot waterfall is a testament to Mother Nature’s beauty. The water cascades down from a hilltop stream into bottomless sinkholes. Unfortunately, you are unable to swim in the waterfall because of its depth to nowhere, but you can observe its splendid beauty on boardwalks and viewing platforms at many different levels and angles along its path. There’s a lake within the park that has a designated swimming area for those who want to take a dip in Florida’s natural spring. Also in the park are nature trails, campgrounds and picnic areas. The best times to visit the park are during the late winter and early spring months when the waterfall is at its peak flow, which also occurs after heavy rain. It is a
Photo: Flickr.com
magnificent sight to be seen.
sMorrison Springs Want a location where you can do it all--swim, scuba dive, enjoy the beach, boat and even cave dive--then make your way to Morrison Springs (Morrison Springs Road Caryville FL 32427; 850-892-8108) in Florida’s northwest region. Morrison Springs is one of Florida’s treasured natural springs that occupy 161 acres of water and land. The water stays at a cool temperature of 65 to 68 year-round and is crystal clear even in the underwater caves and caverns. On one end of the spring is a sandy beach area perfect for kids and those who don’t want to venture out into the deep areas. From the beach area, the spring extends out and reaches depths deep enough and far enough to allow small boats to cast off into the water without endangering swimmers and divers. Each area of the spring is clearly marked for designated use. The spring also has two diving docks for those who want to leap into the water. Huge, gorgeous cypress trees surround the spring all throughout the park area. Guest can enjoy a picnic and grill at the park but camping is strictly prohibited. The park is open to the public for free but make sure to swim with caution because there are no designated lifeguards. The park has two wheel-chair accessible boardwalks that provide an overview of the spring.
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July 22, 2015
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July 22, 2015
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Top Review of a Probe
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PUZZLE
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Across
1 HIV exam, e.g. 5 You may pick one up at a bar 10 Spartacus or Ben-Hur 14 ___ The Woods 15 Computer knockoff 16 It means nothing to Frida 17 Source of red balls 18 Single-handed 19 Wet spot cause 20 Start of a top review 23 Moist ending 24 Maiden name preceder 25 Big tops 27 Gas or clutch 29 New corp. hires 32 Rilke’s ice 33 Pussy input 36 Curve and others 37 A space probe 39 Sound of getting banged? 41 Tammy Baldwin ad word 42 The other womam 43 Make messy 44 Artist Eva 48 Some nerve 50 Preposition that goes either way
Down
1 Is active in B&D 2 Bear 3 Eyed impolitely 4 Gertrude Stein’s A Long Gay Book, for one 5 “Do-Re-Mi” subject 6 Kate’s sitcom partner 7 Admire a hottie 8 Shakespeare’s Hathaway 9 Bottomless 10 Provide 11 Wife and wife, e.g. 12 Cockamamie
For the solution to this puzzle, go to www.floridaagend.com/puzzle
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13 Head cover 21 Sib of the bride, to the other bride 22 OCS grads 26 Inflated doll leak sound 28 Served perfectly, to Mauresmo 29 Social customs 30 Make water bubble 31 Woodcarver’s tool 34 Kind of traffic 35 Batman and Robin to Catwoman 36 Initial stake 37 Like gay teens with supportive moms and dads 38 Earth tone 39 Even if, for short
40 Breakfast at Tiffany’s actress 43 AT&T rival 45 Julius Caesar setting 46 Jobs of doubles 47 Some Bacon pieces 49 Pisa place 50 Kind of queer 51 Less polite 54 Gets behind 55 Wilson of Zoolander 56 Weathercock 57 Moby Dick chaser 58 Old cagers’ org.
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52 Alf and others 53 End of a top review 58 Ambience 59 Oscar, for one 60 Court figure Mandlikova 61 Jacques of song 62 One who comes out after some rubbing
63 Firm member (abbr.) 64 Warhol of soup fame 65 Look dirty? 66 Porgy’s lady
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Holy Angels Catholic Community 2917 NE 6th Avenue Wilton Manors, FL 33334 954-633-2987 / holyangelsfl.org Etz Chaim 1501 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-564-9232 / etzchaimflorida.org The Parish of St Francis & Clare 101 NE 3rd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 954-731-8173 / stsfrancisandclare.org
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Genesis Health Institute 1001 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-561-3175 / ghinstitute.com
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Galleria International Realty 945 Las Olas Boulvard Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 954-234-8759 / galleriarealtors.com Joe Grano Realtor 1881 NE 26th Street, Suite 212 Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-931-0031 / joegrano.com
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SCREEN SAVOR By Gregg Shapiro
Mr. Holmes
In Mr. Holmes (Miramax/Roadside Attractions), a period piece that reunites gay actor Ian McKellen and gay director Bill Condon for the first time since the Oscar-winning Gods and Monsters, McKellen takes on the role of an aged and declining Sherlock Holmes. In the film, based on Mitch Cullin’s novel, Holmes finally gets to solve the one mystery that drove him into retirement and, immediately thereafter, solves another mystery that saves his sanity, as well as the life of a young boy. The film begins with Holmes returning from Japan where he went to seek the cure for his failing memory in the form of an herb derived from the prickly ash. While there, he encounters another prickly situation, involving a Mr. Umezaki (Hiroyuki Sanada).
Back in England, in his seaside home, where he resides with housekeeper Mrs. Munro (Laura Linney) and her bright and inquisitive son Roger (Milo Parker), Holmes busies himself with his prickly ash intake. He also works on writing a story in order to unravel a tangled mystery from several years previous, involving a client, Thomas (Patrick Kennedy), and the tragic circumstances of the death of his wife Ann (Hattie Morahan), an unresolved case that has long plagued Holmes. Baffling situations abound, but one thing that is not a mystery is the way that Holmes and Roger take to each other. Roger, whose father was killed during the war, sees in Holmes a father figure who is more on his intellectual level than his mother. That relationship is at the center of the film and is both entertaining and touching. In the long run, Mr. Holmes is merely a trifle, a bit inconsequential, although it does conclude with the faintest whiff of a sequel.
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(Photo: ew.com)
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Daddy Issues
Mr. Holmes Actor Ian McKellen
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Tiger Orange
(Photo: youtube.com)
Legendary indie queer filmmaker Bruce LaBruce takes his career to new and promising heights with Gerontophilia (Strand), a film displaying both a new-found maturity and accessibility. LaBruce hasn’t entirely abandoned his kinky side as much as he’s refined it. Lake (Pier-Gabriel Lajoie) and semi-girlfriend Desiree (Katie Boland) spend their gap year making out, going to rock clubs and discussing and naming revolutionaries and saints. Bookworm Desiree works in a bookstore where her creepy boss Mr. Guerrero (Brian D. Wright), described as a “Buscemi” by Lake, takes an interest in her. Lake works as a pool lifeguard, but after getting an erection while performing CPR on an elderly gentleman, finds himself out of a job. Lake’s mother, who loses her job as a club dancer after a brawl with another dancer, secures employment at an assisted living facility. While there, she is able to land a job for Lake. So begins Lake’s octogenarian odyssey, beginning innocently enough with him sketching some of the residents. Shortly thereafter he befriends gay resident Melvyn (Walter Borden) and soon the two
are hanging out together, playing strip poker and drinking. When Lake, who develops an attraction to Melvyn sees him being over-medicated (following an escape attempt) and mistreated by staff members, he comes up with a plan to rescue him and grant his wish to see the Pacific Ocean before he dies. The ensuing road trip has its highs and lows. LaBruce has hit the jackpot with Lajoie. Not only is he a pleasure to look at, he can also act up a storm. The rest of the cast, including Borden and Boland, do what they can to keep up with him. DVD bonus features include a Museum of Modern Art Q&A with LaBruce and the original theatrical trailer.
Gerontophilia Actor Pier-Gabriel Lajoie and Actor Walter Borden (Photo: youtube.com)
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Tiger Orange Actor Frankie Valenti
Gerontophilia
July 22, 2015
Set in a rural California town, just north of Los Angeles, Tiger Orange (Wolfe), whose title comes from a paint color sold at the hardware store inherited by Chet (co-screenwriter Mark Strano) after his father died, utilizes flashbacks to illustrate the ways two brothers differed as children. Abandoned by their mother when they were small and raised by their perpetually raging father, Chet and Todd are as different as brothers can be. Chet stayed behind after college to help his father with the store, while Todd (Frankie Valenti) got the hell out of town as fast as he could. Chet, who lives alone in the cabin where he took care of his father until his death, has his safe and stable existence rocked by a pair of events. First, Brandon (Gregory Marcel), an old high school crush who has since come out as gay, returns to town to take care of his ailing mother. Second, tattooed and pierced brother Todd, who has basically been run out of L.A. following a series of unfavorable events, also returns to town, and wants to stay at the cabin with Chet. As you might imagine, the set-up is rife with conflict. But what gives Tiger Orange its roar is the way that the astute and sensitive screenplay handles
an array of situations, including the way gay people are able to coexist peacefully with straight folks in a suburban setting, as well as the portrayal of the complex sibling relationship that arises when both brothers are gay. Strano and Marcel are quite good, but it’s Valenti, who like fellow porn actor Sean Lockhart (aka Brent Corrigan), proves there’s more to him than what we’ve already seen of him under his gay porn moniker Johnny Hazzard. What make it all the more remarkable is that Gasque gets it all done in a little more than an hour and 15 minutes. Bravo! The skimpy DVD bonus features include a Frankie Valenti photo gallery set to a dance music beat and the film’s theatrical trailer.
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By Patrick Robert
Jacksonville
Orlando
7/23
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Elton John’s elaborate musical Aida tells the story of Nubian princes Aida’s romance with Egyptian captain Radames. As their forbidden love grows, she must find a balance between her heart’s yearning and her responsibility to her people. The Players by the Sea production continues until August eighth. 8:00 p.m. Players by the Sea Theatre. 106 6th St N. Jacksonville Beach. 32250.
Sometimes referred to as “Adele Dazeem,” Idina Menzel is a Broadway veteran most famous for her role as the voice of Elsa in Disney’s megahit film Frozen. She began her career with roles in hit musicals Rent and Wicked before parlaying that success into a recurring role on Glee. Tonight’s concert will feature her signature songs along with music from her albums I Stand, Live: Barefoot at the Symphony, and Holiday Wishes. 8:00 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. 445 S. Magnolia Ave. Orlando. 32801.
Aida
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Kacey Musgraves Nashville Star contestant Kacey Musgraves has skyrocketed to the top of the country music landscape. Her 2013 album Same Trailer Different Park includes the popular singles “Merry Go ‘Round,” “Follow Your Arrow,” and “Blowin’ Smoke.” The critically-acclaimed album won two Grammy Awards: one for Best Country Album and one for Best Country Song for “Merry Go ‘Round.” 8:00 p.m. Florida Theatre. 128 E. Forsyth St. Jacksonville. 32202.
7/25
July 22, 2015
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Pure Prairie League, Respected country music group Pure Prairie League has been in the business for over forty years, known by most of the public for their 1974 hit single “Amie.” The band dissolved in the early 1980s before reforming in the late 1990s. Their 2005 studio album All in Good Time is considered one of their best. Tonight they perform with Firefall and Atlanta Rhythm Section. 7:00 p.m. Florida Theatre. 128 E. Forsyth St. Jacksonville. 32202.
Idina Menzel
7/25
Deborah Cox Gay culture icon Deborah Cox has achieved number-one hits on both Billboard’s Hot Dance Club Play chart and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles chart. Her 1998 song “Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here” became a gay anthem that is still routinely played at Pride festivals and gay bars across the country. Tonight, she performs in promotion of her newest release Work of Art. 8:00 p.m. Parliament House Resort and Entertainment Complex. 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail. Orlando. 32805.
7/26 311
Punk and ska band 311’s signature hits came in the late 1990s during the short-lived ska resurgence in America. Their two biggest hits “All Mixed Up” and “Down” were radio staples in 1997. Since then the Nebraskan band has released a multitude of albums and maintained their rabid fan base. 8:00 p.m. Hard Rock Live. 6050 Universal Blvd. Orlando. 32819.
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Sometimes referred to as “Adele Dazeem,” Idina Menzel is a Broadway veteran most famous for her role as the voice of Elsa in Disney’s megahit film Frozen. Her rendition of “Let It Go” has become a pop culture staple, one of the most popular songs from the past decade. Tonight’s concert will feature her signature songs along with music from her albums I Stand, Live: Barefoot at the Symphony, and Holiday Wishes. 8:00 p.m. Mizner Park Amphitheater. 590 Plaza Real. Boca Raton. 33432.
Despite heavily publicized feuds throughout their careers, Billy Corgan’s Smashing Pumpkins and once-controversial goth rocker Marilyn Manson have teamed up for the End Times Tour. Smashing Pumpkins’ 1990s albums Siamese Dreams and Melon Collie and the Infinite Sadness were some of the most critically-acclaimed releases of the era. Marilyn Manson achieved fame as a shock rocker whose dark music was widely blamed for the Columbine Massacre. 7:00 p.m. MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre. 4802 U.S. 301 N. Tampa. 33610.
Idina Menzel
7/24
3 Doors Down/Seether The Mississippi band 3 Door Down first achieved international fame with their single “Krptonite,” leading to a record deal with Republic Records and their debut album The Better Life. Their sophomore release Away from the Sun increased their popularity, spawning hits “When I’m Gone” and “Here Without You.” The band is on tour promoting their upcoming album Us and the Night. Sharing the bill is South African hard rock group Seether. Later single “Broken” continued their popularity. 7:30 p.m. Pompano Beach Amphitheater. 1806 NE Sixth St. Pompano Beach. 33060
7/25
Palm Beach Beer Fest.
7/25
BayPort Comic Con The weekend-long event is a fanboy’s dream come true. Along with a costume contest, the event also features an array of special guests ready to sign autographs. The list of celebrities includes Adam West and Burt Ward (Batman), James Marsters (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Paige O’Hara (voice of Belle from Beauty and the Beast) and Marnix Van Den Broeke (Doctor Who). 10:00 a.m. Grand Hyatt Tampa. 2900 Bayport Dr. Tampa. 33634.
7/29
Dave Matthews Band
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Despite being widely lampooned by comedians and snarky hipsters alike, Dave Matthews Band is one of the biggest bands in America. Having sold over 30 million records, the band reached a milestone in 2012 when their release, Away from the World, debuted number one on Billboard, making them the only band to have six albums debut as number one. 7:00 p.m. MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre. 4802 U.S. 301 N. Tampa. 33610.
July 22, 2015
It’s summer. And you’re crazy from the heat. If cold beer is what you crave, we have you covered in The Palm Beaches with the Palm Beach Summer Beer Fest. Come and enjoy the distinct flavors of new and local beer at South Florida’s only indoor Craft Beer Fest. This summertime party blast will be hot and yet so cool. Held in the airconditioned Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds.
The End Times Tour
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Tampa / St. Pete
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Palm Beach
July 22, 2015
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WEEK
Miami
7/23
7/25
Melissa Gardner and Andrew Makepeace Ladd III correspond with each other for the first time when they are both only seven years old. For the next fifty years, they continue to confide in one another, even when dealing with wars and marriages and children and careers. Directed by Gregory Mosher and written by A.R. Gurney, the newest production at the Broward Center will also feature beloved actors Ryan O’Neal and Ali MacGraw in the lead roles. 8:00 p.m. Broward Center for the Performing Arts. 201 SW Fifth Ave. Fort Lauderdale. 33312.
With incomparable storytelling and a dedication to a definitive choreographic voice, Chicago Repertory Ballet has received acclaim throughout the country. Tonight’s presentation includes Vivaldi’s classic work The Four Seasons. Artistic director Wade Schaaf incorporates classical and contemporary movement forms into one ballet full of a series of vignettes from everyday life. 8:00 p.m. South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center. 10950 SW 211th St. Cutler Bay. 33189
Love Letters
7/24 Bill Bellamy
Stand-up comedian and MTV Jamz VJ Bill Bellamy contributed one important phrase to American vernacular: booty call. His recent career consists mainly of television, as the host and executive producer of Bill Bellamy’s Who’s Got Jokes? and as a frequent “roundtable” guest on Chelsea Lately. 8:00 p.m. Fort Lauderdale Improv. 5700 Seminole Way. Hollywood. 33314
7/29 The Mix
Overtown Music Festival Recording artists, live performers, and vendors will help promote economic development and community enrichment in Miami’s historic district of Overtown. This free event will feature live music, ethnic cuisine, artwork, crafts, and jewelry. A Youth Zone will provide face painting, bounce houses, karaoke, and fitness activities for kids of all ages. 11:00 a.m. Overtown Business District. NW 3rd Ave. Miami. 33136.
7/27 The Prey
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For the summer South Florida Theatre League is offering free readings of new plays by local playwrights. Spread across various venues throughout the region, the readings showcase the talent of such local favorites as Carbonell Awardwinner Christopher Demos-Brown along with work from new and emerging talents. Tonight’s reading is of The Prey, an original work by South Florida playwright Gina Montet and will take place at The Little Haiti Cultural Complex. 7:00 p.m. Little Haiti Cultural Center. 212 NE 59th Terrace. Miami. 33137.
July 22, 2015
LeBoy Bar hosts this month’s premiere LGBTQ networking event, The Mix. Each month, Guy Magazine and the Wilton Manors Development Alliance present two hours of cocktails and hors d‘oeuvres for Wilton Manors’ business professionals. Rub shoulders with lawyers, advertising agents, writers from this magazine. This week’s Mix also offers a chance to win a $500 advertising certificate with Guy Magazine and The Agenda. Come enjoy a few drinks and strong connections. 6:30 p.m. leBoy Bar. 1243 NE 11th Ave. Fort Lauderdale. 33304.
Chicago Repertory Ballet
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Fort Lauderdale
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By Patrick Robert
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July 22, 2015
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