Agenda 102215 issue 309

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SAME-SEX PARENTS TO CREATE BABIES FROM SKIN CELLS WITHIN TWO YEARS


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WickedManors.org

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#WICKEDMANORS

Presented By

Liquor Sponsors

Please Drink Responsibly Š2015 Imported by Diageo, Norwalk, CT

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31st On Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors | 7PM to 12 AM

DECOR | MUSIC | FLASH MOBS | COSTUME CONTESTS

MAIN STAGE EMCEES: MISS MISTY EYES & MISS BRYAN & NIKKI RAMIREZ All proceeds of this event go to support the vital programs and services of The Pride Center. To pre-purchase drink tickets or to donate to the event visit: WICKEDMANORS.ORG

SPONSORS STAGE

DECOR

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GUY M A G A Z I N E

GENERAL


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WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING...

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Random thoughts and quotes on Facebook this week

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JOE BIDEN IS NOT RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT “I know from previous experience that there’s no time table for this process. The process doesn’t respect or much care about things like filing deadlines, debates, primaries and caucuses. I also know that I couldn’t do this if the family wasn’t ready. The good news is the family’s reached that point. As I’ve said many times, my family has suffered loss and I hope there would come a time, and I’ve said this to many other families, that sooner rather than later when you think of your loved ones, it brings a smile to your lips before it brings a tear to your eyes. That’s where the Bidens are today. Beau is our inspiration. Unfortunately, I believe we’re out of time—the time necessary to mount a winning campaign for the nomination.”

Vice President JOE BIDEN

ALL ABOUT THE DONALD

Photo Courtesy of NBC

Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump isn’t known for his tact (or charm). This week, neither were his biggest critics.

FAMILY TIES. I’m so ready for the next season of the Kardashians and their ilk! “Keeping Up with the Kardashians: The Family Suicide Pact!”

OH, THE IRONY. Republicans didn’t complain when Trump attacked women, Mexicans and POWs, but apparently criticizing one of the worst Presidents in IS history is deeply offensive. ANDY BOROWITZ Social Commentator PARTY LINES. Trump personifies everything the rest of the world despises about America: casual racism, crass materialism, relentless selfaggrandizement, vulgarity on an epic scale. The fact that so many Republicans are comfortable with the thought of this monumentally unqualified man in the Oval Office shows how warped the Party has become. PAUL THOMAS Journalist at the New Zealand Herald

SOMETHING’S GOTTA GIVE. Remember when Diane Keaton was a cool, kooky, edgy actress who did all types of movies? Now, it seems all she appears in are cheesy Christmas family movies where she can wear exquisite pantsuits. THE BIG CHILL. It was so gray and breezy out today, that I briefly considered taking my mink out of cold storage! IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS. Anyone who says their wedding day was the best day of their life has never had two candy bars fall down at once from a vending machine. BEACH, PLEASE. Clearly Juno Beach has a no-hottie rule, because everyone here looks like they just got out of prison for robbing a methadone clinic....which means I could tear off my burka with a heated passion and let my balls fly with the wind!

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Adam Cohen is South Florida’s favorite and most fabulous social commentator. He’s also single.

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GARY MCCARTHY Social Commentator

CHEERS (AND JEERS). Opening up a bar in Wilton Manors called the Poophole Loophole. Nothing funnier than gay men and vodka.

GOT WOOD? I can honestly say that indoor wood paneling from the ‘70s is up there with war, poverty, and disease as one of the horrific realities of life as we know it.

Photo: AP

9/11 NO NO. Having listened to Donald J. Trump insist that if he were president in 2001 9/11 wouldn’t have happened—I’d like to add— if Trump was an underwear model, we wouldn’t have seen Marky Mark in boxer briefs. If Trump played baseball, A-Rod would pale in comparison to D-Tru. If Trump was a muppet, Ms. Piggy would be all like, “Kermit who?” #trump Did I miss anything?

JUST ADAM

Musings by Adam Cohen


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COVER STORY

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Perhaps the New York Times said it best when the newspaper suggests that Boulder, Colorado is “a mountainside city of yoga studios, tech start-ups, and Buddhist-inflected cafes and bookstores, (where) people are likelier to spot a wandering black bear than an elected Republican.” Yet, next Wednesday, on October 28, Boulder will become ground zero as Republican presidential candidates hold their third televised primary debate on the campus of the University of Colorado. To be sure, there will be plenty of protests and demonstrations for the benefit of the politicians as well as the journalists present. With five registers Democrats for every Republican, rest assured there will also be a lot of haters looking on. The debate will address the economy—specifically jobs, taxes, the deficit and the health of our Gross National Product. Yes, there is one subject that is certain to get plenty of public leverage: the legalization of marijuana, a local product that adds millions to the state of Colorado’s treasury. Several candidates see the national legalization of the now-illegal drug a way to infuse billions of dollars into the mainstream economy of the country. Here in Florida, the initiative to legalize marijuana is certain to be part of the 2016 election in our own voting booths. As advocate Emmett Reistroffer explains to Agenda readers, it is a matter of when, not if, this measure will pass. The downside? Well, as Emmett Reistroffer explains, there is none.

LEGALIZED MARIJUANA:

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Is Florida Next?

With just 4 short months to go, the campaign to legalize and regulate marijuana in Florida will have to collect nearly 700,000 verified voter signatures to qualify for the ballot. By Emmett Reistroffer

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pon passing Amendment 64 on November 6th 2012, Colorado became the first state in the nation to legalize marijuana beyond its traditional medical purposes by setting up legal, regulatory, and tax frameworks for all adult use. Amendment 64, known as the “Regulate Marijuana like Alcohol Act” created the world’s first robust, regulated marketplace for recreational marijuana, where now more than a thousand licensed cultivators; processors and distributors serve the state’s citizens and its many visitors. Colorado is also home to many compassionate caregivers, advocates and talented home growers that contribute to a world-renown center point of cannabis culture. After one year of implementing legalization and regulation, the state has become a role model for marijuana policy in the 21st century and continues to influence marijuana discussions across the country and around the world. Floridians have a lot to learn from states with legal, regulated marijuana markets and should lead the charge for sensible reform on the east coast. With four states following Colorado since 2012, the momentum is certainly moving toward ending prohibition nationwide. However, before we can change federal law there likely are still several

more cycles of turnover needed in Congress before legislation has a passing chance. Ending prohibition is also contingent on electing a President open-minded to the benefits of regulation or at least willing to maintain the status quo set by a Justice Department memo that allows states to pursue legalization in spite of federal law. We’re not there yet, but the writing is on the wall. For the first time ever, a major Presidential candidate recently announced at the Democratic Primary debate that he would vote for the legalization measure proposed for the 2016 ballot in Nevada. Received by a room full of applause, Senator Bernie Sanders set a new tone regarding marijuana in the 2016 election; even his establishment colleague Hillary Clinton sounded favorable to marijuana reform at the debate, although her comments limited support to just medical marijuana. On the Republican side, Senator Rand Paul isn’t campaigning for full legalization outright either, but he is speaking about the ill effects of prohibition and has signaled he would protect states rights and embrace important federal reforms such as allowing cannabis businesses to legally access banking services. In the meantime, there is ample opportunity for certain states to be at the forefront of marijuana reforms in


DATA RELEASED BY THE CITY OF DENVER

The state allocated more than $8 million from retail marijuana tax revenue for youth prevention and education, and mental health and community based development programs. Minorities and social-justice activists are also key stakeholders in this fight because of the prevalence of racially biased arrest rates. According to an ACLU analysis, from 2001-2010 Miami-Dade and Manatee Counties had some the largest increases in marijuana possession arrest rates in the country, with the state of Florida having the 4th highest rate increase overall. Disturbingly, the arrest rates nationwide reflect blacks on average being 3.73 times more likely than whites to be arrested for marijuana possession, with Florida being named one of the top 10 states for highest racial disparities in marijuana arrests. Some celebrities have made a documentary about the issue facing urban America “The House I Live In”; and a New York Times best selling author, Michelle Alexander, expanded on the subject in her book The New Jim Crow. In my state of Colorado I’m proud to say we’ve worked hard to end marijuana prohibition and start a new era of regulation. Most importantly, we’re respecting the sovereignty of each adult over his or her own body, affording the ability to choose a safer alterative to alcohol. We’re using some of our new revenues from marijuana to go directly into a “Good to Know” campaign about responsible use under the law, geared towards youth prevention, how to talk to your kids, and the legal consequences of driving under the influence and for public consumption. The state allocated more than $8 million from retail marijuana tax revenue for youth prevention and education, and mental health and community based development programs. In addition, a non-

profit advocacy group, the Council on Responsible Cannabis Regulation, is promoting an important public education campaign about the strength of marijuana infused edibles; the “First Time 5” campaign which has turned “go low, go slow” and “start small, get educated” into common conversation points among marijuana users, cautioning “newbies” to prevent over-consumption. In a post legalization world, public officials and the cannabis industry are finding ways to effectively work together and serve the community. With just 4 short months to go, the campaign to legalize and regulate marijuana in Florida will have to collect nearly 700,000 verified voter signatures to qualify for the ballot, and then they will have to find a massive amount of funding to pay for a statewide educational campaign and get-out-the-vote efforts. Easier said than done, legalization in Florida will require a diverse coalition of stakeholders to make it possible, and I’m truly optimistic that such a coalition exists and still has time to come together. I urge marijuana reform supporters to contact Regulate Florida and carry a petition or make a donation. Most importantly, I urge Floridians to bring this important conversation to friends and neighbors in advance of next year’s vote. Emmett Reistroffer is an associate consultant at Denver Relief Consulting and was the petition coordinator for the Campaign to Regulate Marijuana like Alcohol in Colorado. Reistroffer now serves on the liquor and marijuana licensing board in Englewood, Colorado.

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decreased by 8.9%. Traffic fatalities also went down in 2014, according to data released by the Colorado Department of Transportation, the state had a 3% drop in 2014. It would seem the same concerns that opponents made about legalization, increases in crime and traffic impairment, are actually addressed better after legalization than during prohibition. Thankfully, public polling is reflecting a nuance of education and new information coming out of legal marijuana states like Colorado, and Floridians like most Americans are embracing these results and want to earn similar headlines for themselves; “Colorado Monthly Marijuana Sales Top $100 Million,” “Teen Use Down after Legalization,” and “Tax Revenues From Marijuana Soar in Colorado.” Tax revenues and the obvious economic benefits tend to dominate the marijuana discussion, although there are far more reasons to support legalization than just dough. The numbers however are impressive and shouldn’t be taken lightly; according to an economic study at Duke University, the budgetary implications show a combined annual savings and net gain increase in tax revenue would be $145.7 million annually in the short run and $285.5 million annually in the long run. To summarize, a wide range of public resources are at stake, especially badly needed police resources to fight violent crimes. The criminal justice system is overburdened with far too many non-violent drug offenders, and even though marijuana legalization alone won’t fix these problems, it can be a turning point toward repairing police-community relations, re-focusing police attention to more pressing threats, and making better use of taxpayer dollars across the board.

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their respective regions. Florida maintains an interesting position, politically and economically, considering many different dynamics: its history with the underground drug trade; the many tourist destinations; the active nurseries employing herbalists and horticulturalists; and a growing retirement-aged population looking for holistic and alternative methods of relief. With a majority of voters approving a comprehensive medical marijuana proposal in the 2014 midterm election (albeit defeated because of the 60% threshold requirement for ballot measures), it looks like marijuana reform will have a solid chance at passing during next year’s more exciting and active election cycle, when the hotly contested Presidential race will attract higher voter turn outs. If both medical and recreational measures make the ballot side by side, voters will have a clear contrast between both approaches and choosing either or both advances Florida in the right direction. Looking to Colorado, a lot of evidence is backing legalization and regulation. Long time prohibitionists are clinging to propaganda, hosting town halls and conferences with dismal turnouts, and remain relentless about spreading misinformation. In many cases, opponents of marijuana reform are using publically funded positions and organizations to advance their agenda. Florida marijuana advocates know well what it’s like to have relentless and wellfunded opposition, who spin the same talking points and rhetoric we heard in Colorado and other states. The facts stand however: according to data released by the city of Denver, violent crime and property crime in Denver decreased last year by 2.2%, burglaries decreased by 9.5% and overall property crime

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STREET BEAT

Are two prides in Fort Lauderdale too many? Fort Lauderdale, Florida is known to celebrate two LGBT Prides every year, Stonewall Pride on Wilton Drive and Pride Fort Lauderdale at Holiday Park. Although celebrated at different locations with distinct attributes, both pride events are inclusive and intended for everyone in the LGBTQA community. But how much pride is too much?

“Stonewall Pride Wilton Manors and Pride Fort Lauderdale should both be continued. They have both been successful festivals, until Pride Fort Lauderdale was rescheduled to October. This was a bad move in two ways. One, tourists can’t be lured South in October, and, two, locals who have more disposable income to spend during season can’t afford to spend money in October. Reschedule Pride Fort Lauderdale back to March!”

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DREW BREEN Retired High School Teacher

October 22, 2015

By Jameer Baptiste

“I do not feel two pride events in Fort Lauderdale is too much. The more the better for equality recognition. Stonewall was significant in 1969 for more reasons than just gay rights, it is representative of equal rights for everybody who was being forced into government suppression. Two is not too many. Maybe, we should have even more than two!”

JONATHAN LAURIN Freelance Photographer

“I’m all for two prides, as long as they do not serve different segments of the population. I always felt pride is the celebration of our community as a whole. When I see two prides catering to separate segments of our population (e.g. when there is a general pride and a black pride), I feel that we are defeating the purpose of pride which is to celebrate unity in diversity. Thankfully, Stonewall Pride and Fort Lauderdale Pride are both intended for everyone.”

STEPHEN SAMUELS Caregiver

“Yes, I think its overkill having two prides in Fort Lauderdale. You want to bring a community and awareness up to the front; however, you don’t want to highly saturate a good cause because then it may become a mockery. Less is sometimes more, it creates an urgency.” LUCA BERRY Singer/Songwriter

What’s your take? Sound off at FloridaAgenda.com!

“I don’t think two prides in Fort Lauderdale is too much. It gives people the opportunity to go to one, in case they missed the other. Not to mention, one pride represents Stonewall and its history and how far we have come along. The other pride represents our community and honors the businesses within our community.” NELSON MALDONADO Critical Care Specialist


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BOBBY BLAIR Founder | CEO RICHARD HACK Vice President | Content MAURA “MUMBALL” LANE National Advertising Director

PETER JACKSON President | Group Executive Publisher KEVIN HOPPER Vice President | New York Publisher

Published weekly by

2000 Oakland Park Blvd, Suite 106 | Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306 Phone: 954-380-8563 | www.FloridaAgenda.com

AS I SEE IT

TWO PRIDES, ONE FLAG, TOO MUCH

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t’s been quite a week around the old burg, here in Fort Lauderdale and our linked-at-the-hip Wilton Manors neighbor. Fresh from our second Pride celebration of the year, we ran head-on into another pride issue—this one involving the rainbow flag and that one-empty pole next to the WM City Hall where the Pride Flag flew for four weeks last June.

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A PUBLICLY TRADED COMPANY STOCK SYMBOL: MMPW

The last time it was raised, Wilton Manors mayor Gary Resnick was excited to officiate at a ceremony which had a crowd of several dozen officials, commissioners and other hotshots observing the events. “DisplayBy ing the pride Richard flag in front of City Hall not Hack only brings awareness to Pride Month but also to the journey that started in 1969 with the Stonewall riots,” Resnick said. “Now is the perfect time to display the symbol of gay pride and diver-

sity in our community.” We had to agree. The part that was strange was that, at the end of June, the flag came down, and was folded away as if to say our pride had an expiration date. There has now been another push to get that Pride flag back up on the pole, lead by Wilton Manors’ bon vivant Tim Evans. He appeared at a recent meeting of the city commissioners to push for the project, which on the face of it seems like a simple request with a simple solution. But as will all things Wilton Manors, such is not the case. The city does not want to make it appear with the flag that they are favoring gays and lesbians over the straight majority. Of course, for those who follow such things, the gay flag is more about inclu-

sion than exclusion. Jeff Sterling, president and CEO of the Wilton Manors Development Alliance adds, “Displaying the flag from a flagpole on city property would put us among the top few progressively diverse cities to take such a bold acknowledgment of the contributions of the LGBT residents, tourists, and businesses that have built the economic staying power of our city. Further, it demonstrates the commitment to equality by the City that will be seen by the wider audience of acceptance for all and help drive further tourism and investment.” In any case, next Tuesday, October 27, at 7 pm, the commissioners will vote and you are invited to add your voice to the goulash of opinion. From our perspective, there is a far bigger issue at hand than LGBT pride being represented by a flag. In this area, twice a year, we have festivals which are meant to do the very same thing—one of

It is time for Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors to cut through the politics, and start leading like the tourism destination the world has declared us to be.

which, as we said, was held two weekends ago. Not surprisingly, and despite a vast amount of work to make it a success, it was met with a ho-hum turnout and a plethora of complaints that ranged from pricing to censorship to sexism to entertainment. The problem as we see it is one of complacency in a community which has begun to take its acceptance with a blasé attitude and an increasing degree of entitlement. In truth, our pride must begin within ourselves, through our actions, every day of the year. We celebrate that pride, not by festivals, but by behavior. And when we do organize a Pride festival, it should not be a skirmish between varying factions within our community to see who can reflect our true unity and accomplishments. It is time for Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors to cut through the politics, and start leading like the tourism destination the world has declared us to be. Learn from our successes rather than dwell on our failures. Consolidate our Pride to a single event, and make it magnificent. St. Petersburg has done it brilliantly, attracting 250,000 celebrants from around the world to its city and beaches. Building on their base and phenomenal success, let us soar. Our time is here. Our moment is now. Grasp it with Pride, laced with a big dose of appreciation, and, as always, respect.

Richard Hack is the award-winning author of 26 books, and the Vice President of Content for Multimedia Platforms’ publications.


it. Myself? The next one is 58. Now I’ve never been vain about my age, but I have to chuckle at the two comments I usually get: (1): Why don’t you color your goatee? It would make you look younger. (2): I thought you were in your 40’s. How do you do it? Those are both easy answers! (1) I earned each and every white hair on my face. Why get rid of them? Besides, as fast as my facial hair grows, I’d have to color it daily! (2) Learn how to control stress. What a difference in your life it can make. By no means am I saying once you’re over 40 you should shrivel up and stop living. I certainly haven’t. But my question is: Why do people have such a difficult time admitting their chronological age? Every day, many of us see people

who seem to be ashamed of their age. Go on various websites that ask you to enter your age. Today, I’d put 57. You, like myself, have seen people (some we know) deduct 25 years off their actual age, if they already haven’t put “99.” I won’t even touch on the attire some wear. That is a whole different story! Look, we have to do what we feel is best for each of us. However, at some point in our lives, we have to accept what is a reality: we’re aging. Personally, hitting 50s was my wakeup call. Not that I had a problem with the number, but it was strange to think at 50, in 10 years I would turn 60. WOW! I began to look at myself as one who was now in that age range where I would start getting asked out by someone in their 60s and 70s. It certainly wasn’t like getting asked out by someone in their 30s and 40s. Why? Because when I (and many of you) was in the 30s and 40s, the

ages of 60 and 70 were considered old. That couldn’t possibly be me (us)! When I went into ministry close to 25 years ago, my outlook on age gained a much different prospective. I began to see people who didn’t live past 40. I’ve seen it where they didn’t reach much past the age of 20. I guess you might say I became even more of an advocate by being proud of my age and growing old(er). So, I will challenge this: Don’t be unhappy about adding another year to your life. Be proud of every day you have been given and the fact that you ARE getting old(er). Remember, not everyone has the same opportunity. Be grateful you still get yours.

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We’re Getting Old(er)

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ver the past few months, I have been in a lot of social settings; dinners, parties, clubs, church, shopping. Just about every spectrum one could think of. What would you think is that one word which customarily seems to be the common denominator in any environment? Okay, By Rev. I’ll make it easy for you: Joel AGE. Yes, age. Slotnick I don’t understand why people have such a phobia about getting older. In my family, we never had a problem discussing age. My mom will be the first one to tell you she’s turned 84 in mid September. Aside from the standard things that accompany aging, she doesn’t look

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OPINION

Rev. Joel S. Slotnick is an ordained Interfaith minister and full time digital court reporter for the state of Florida.

PAUL BERGE

What’s your opinion? The Agenda wants to know...

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The Florida Agenda welcomes signed Letters to the Editor, up to 400 words in length, on topics of general interest to our readers. You may e-mail submissions to Editor@mmplgbt. com. We welcome comments on our Facebook page also.


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have read in high school. Annie On My Mind by Nancy Garden, for example, was first published in the early 1980s. But like I said, I had no way of knowing that. But today, there are plenty of books to choose from and I’ve read many of them. I want to know what today’s young people are reading. And I’m very happy that LGBT young people no longer lurk in the shadows without books that reflect their lives. Metaxas sees something far more nefarious at play. “Authors who work to normalize homosexuality are trying to promote what they see as compassion, understanding and acceptance,” he says. “I believe they’re also trying to break down sexual boundaries of all kinds, to push what they see as ‘freedom’ as far as they possibly can.” What’s wrong with “compassion, understanding and acceptance”? Unless, of course, you believe that LGBT people are unworthy of it and photo: youtube.com should simply be scorned. As far as breaking down “sexual boundaries of all kinds,” that’s a common claim of the anti-gay right who think of LGBT people only in terms of sex. Metaxas continues, “Even when there are no explicit descriptions, sexual themes are often introduced before kids are ready to deal with them in a mature way. Earth to Metaxas: all kids are exposed to sexual themes before they’re ready to deal with them in mature way. I would much rather have kids, gay and straight, read a book written just for them that promotes “compassion, understanding and acceptance” than learning about sex by Googling “boobies” and “wieners” on the Internet.

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I may be a grown up, but I read a lot of young adult fiction aimed at LGBT teens. Wait. I shouldn’t use the term “aimed at” less I fuel the fire behind Eric Metaxas’s idea that YA books are “disproportionately gay” and are trying to turn young people gay or at least make kids cool with the so-called sinful gay lifestyle. In a recent commentary on BreakPoint which, according to their website, “provides a Christian perspective on today’s news and trends,” Metaxas proclaims “an alarming trend in youth lit.” “The way to win over a culture is to capture the minds and hearts of its young people,” he says. “The gay-rights movement has certainly learned that lesson, which helps explain a current trend in youth literature. Anyone who reads books for teens these days will tell you that portrayals of gay relationships and characters are rapidly increasing.” He’s right, in a way. Though what he sees as a bad thing, I see Eric Metaxas as a good thing. It’s true that there are more LGBT themes and characters being explored in YA lit. But it’s not because all of a sudden “the gay-rights movement” ramped up production. When I was discovering I was attracted to girls and not boys in the mid-90s, there were books about lesbians out there, but I didn’t know that and didn’t know where to find them. I couldn’t just Google “lesbian books” and I certainly couldn’t ask a librarian to help me find them. One of the first books about lesbians that I read was The Well of Loneliness by Radclyffe Hall (even if you haven’t read it, the title alone gives you a pretty good idea of the suffering therein). In college, I read Stone Butch Blues by Leslie Feinberg (more suffering). There were YA books that I could

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b Eric Metaxas

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By D’Anne Witowski

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CREEP OF THE WEEK


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CAPITOL BEAT LGBTs Can Elect The Next President

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at the ballot box on November 8, 2016.

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n October 13, we found out that Lincoln Chafee is running for President. Or possibly a place on Mount Rushmore. About the only thing the mild-mannered Rhode Islander won on debate night was the “most bizarre sound bite” award with his unorthodox “block of granite” metaphor. But then again, he also has one of the more bizarre political histories. He has been a Republican, an InBY dependent and LINDA now a DemoPENTZ crat. He voted for George H. Bush as a write-in during the 2004 presidential election; opposed authorizing the use of force in Iraq while a Republican; is pro-choice; and supports same-sex marriage, gun control, affirmative action and President Obama. After absorbing all that, it is reasonable to ask whether political parties even matter? Maybe not. Vote your conscience and perhaps we really can fill the halls of power with the good guys. But if political parties may not matter, voting most certainly does. How much? Let’s indulge in some fun mathematical geekery with Human Rights Campaign President, Chad Griffin, to find out. “There are at least 10 million eligible LGBT voters in this country today,” began Griffin, addressing the annual and star-studded HRC gala recently in Washington, DC. “That’s larger than the margin of victory of every presidential election since 1984. In 2012, President Obama won by just under 5 million votes. And LGBT people made up at least 6 million voters in that election. And in key battleground states like Florida and Ohio, the number of LGBT people of voting age is double our margins of victory,” Griffin continued, then finished with a flourish: “In other words, we literally have the power to decide elections!”

OK you can put your abacus away now. The short answer is that if enough LGBT voters vote, pro-LGBT candidates win. And on November 8, 2016, voting will matter more than ever. Because as Griffin pointed out in his speech, “on inauguration day 2017 the most pro-equality president in the history of this country will leave office.” Who will replace him could be up to LGBT voters. Not voting could mean that seat gets filled by the most anti-LGBT president in the history of this country. As Vice President Joe Biden quipped when addressing the HRC gala guests, “Oh there’s homophobia still left. Most of them are running for president I think.” On the right, that is. Sorting out good, better, best on LGBT issues on the Democratic side, when lining up behind one of the six declared candidates so far, can be hair splitting. The late arriving and, according to candidate Martin O’Malley, too few debates among Democratic presidential candidates have started to shed some light on things. At least we have now heard from O’Malley, Chafee and Jim Webb, all struggling far outside the media limelight that has shone resolutely and almost exclusively on frontrunner, Hillary Clinton, and closest rival, Bernie Sanders. (The sixth candidate, Lawrence Lessig, running on the single issue of campaign finance reform, has fallen into the Catch-22 of debate eligibility and is not yet allowed to appear. This seems churlish considering the over-crowded platform at Republican debates.) So back to the math. After the 2012 presidential elections, exit polls revealed that five percent of voters self-identified as gay, lesbian and bisexual. More than 75% of them voted for Obama, a 5% increase in LGBT support for Obama compared to 2008. Even so, four out of ten LGBT voters stayed home. No matter which Republican candidate ends up winning the nomination, turning out the LGBT vote could be a life and death issue. Voter turnout among straight allies is critical too. They must not be allowed


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to hear that being gay is not a limitation. People need to hear that being gay doesn’t restrict your options in life. People need to hear that you can be gay or transgender and be whatever else you want to in life.” He paused. “I thought that was a message worth sharing.” In the end, maybe we don’t need an abacus, or a calculator or opinion polls or anything other than the engaging rhetoric of still-not-a-candidate Biden. Speaking at the HRC dinner, Biden stated emphatically that “the American people are with us.” He said it not optimistically but with complete conviction. “The American people are so much better than their leaders give them credit for,” he said. And he praised the LGBT movement for the progress made. “Not only did you set your love free, you heard me say this before, you set free millions of straight men and women,” Biden said. “You freed them from the stigma they feared if they spoke up.” Then, recalling his seminal moment on Meet the Press in 2012 when he publicly endorsed same-sex marriage, he added “After I had that little interview on Meet the Press, and some people weren’t so happy, I made a point. I said, ‘you guys are way out of step. The American people are already there.’” The only place those same American people still need to be is at the ballot box on November 8.

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Linda Pentz is the Washington correspondent of the Florida Agenda. She can be contacted at lindapentz@mmplgbt.com. Follow her on Twitter @CapitolAgenda

October 22, 2015

for one second to believe that the marriage-equality decision in June put the LGBT rights issue to bed. But what of voters who are neither LGBT nor pro-active allies? Is there a way to ignite passion and commitment in those ranks so that their votes will support candidates who support the LGBT community? Lesbian actor, Ellen Page, sees the imperative of education and role models, and that means coming out, a step she herself took just 20 months ago. “The moment someone who does not fully understand our love or who we are realizes that their daughter or son is gay, or a teacher they love is transgender, or an athlete they admire is bisexual, they will hopefully begin to understand that we are all the same,” she said in an emotional acceptance speech when receiving the Vanguard Award at the HRC dinner. “It has become increasingly apparent to me that we all need to use our influence, whatever it may be, to help others.” Apple CEO, Tim Cook, a relatively private man for someone of his professional stature, appeared to understand the advantage enjoyed by celebrities who, by and large, can come out with fewer risks and repercussions. In accepting the 2015 HRC Visibility Award, Cook said: “Last year, I wanted to lend my voice to people who might not be ready to exercise theirs.” Cook was referencing his open letter to the public last October when he announced he is gay. Like Page, Cook also expressed the need to empower LGBT individuals to reach for the stars, and show the less informed among us that we are all the same, whether that be as a spouse, partner, parent, son, daughter, or successful professional. Because, as Cook said, “people need

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If enough LGBT voters vote, pro-LGBT candidates win. And on November 8, 2016, voting will matter more than ever.


October 22, 2015

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IN MEMORIAM

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Murders Of Transgender Women: Stop The Slaughter, Remember The Victims

Ty “Nunee” Underwood, 24 January 26, 2015 Tyler, Texas

BY RICHARD HACK

Ty Underwood was found shot in a automobile on 24th Street in Tyler, Texas. On February 9th, police arrested and charged 21-year-old football player Carlton Ray Champion Jr. with first-degree murder in Underwood’s death. He has pleaded not guilty.

Papi Edwards, 20 January 9, 2015 Louisville, Kentucky

Zella Ziona, 21

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October 15, 2015 Montgomery Village, Maryland

Zella Ziona was by all accounts a beautiful 21-year-old woman with a kindness that she extended to all those around her. Today, she is known as the 21st transgender murder victim in a senseless crime being pegged to pride. She was shot multiple times at point-blank range as a gang of teenagers looked on in amusement. Alleged to be behind the violence: Rico Hector Leblond, a 20-year-old convicted felon at whom Zella had purportedly smiled during an excursion in a shopping mall. She was there to buy flowers to put on her grandmother’s grave. She died in the alleyway behind the stores, the flowers at her side. The violence that has found its target in primarily black transgendered females has reached a proportion this year that is unbelievable to civilized adults. Yet, the deaths are real and mounting with each month. Their tally is a witness to the brutality of man. And it serves as yet another wake-up call that violence has become so commonplace that it barely makes the news any longer. While we did not know Zella or any other of the slain victims of intolerance, we pause to remember their gifts, their talents, and their memory. You are our sisters and our brothers, and we will never forget.

Papi (Sherman) Edwards was shot at the Fern Valley Hotel in Louisville, KY after admitting to being transgender to a potential sexual partner. Prosecutors, who identified Papi as a male, have arrested and charged a suspect, Henry Gleaves, with murder.

Yazmin Vash Payne, 33 January 31, 2015 Los Angeles, California

Yazmin Payne was found in her apartment’s kitchen, dead of multiple stab wounds, as firefighters were responding to reports of a fire in a rear bedroom. Her boyfriend Ezekiel Dear, 25, was charged with the murder.

Lamia Beard, 30 January 17, 2015 Norfolk, Virginia

Lamia Beard was shot on the 700 block of East 25th Street in Norfolk, VA. Lamia was labeled a male by police. She later died at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. No suspect has been arrested.


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IN MEMORIAM May 18, 2015 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Taja Gabrielle de Jesus, 36 Taja DeJesus was found stabbed to death on the 1400 block of McKinnon Avenue in San Francisco. A suspect in the killing was later found stabbed to death himself.

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London Kiki Chanel was stabbed to death in an abandoned building in the 2200 block of Ingersoll Street in Philadelpha, by her live-in boyfriend Raheam Felton. Felton is believed to have carried London outside the building before flagging down police in an unsuccessful effort to save her life.

February 1, 2015 San Francisco, California

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London Kiki Chanel, 21

Mercedes Williamson, 17 May 30-June 1, 2015 George County, Mississippi

Mercedes Williamson’s decomposing body was discovered June 2 in Rocky Creek, Alabama, allegedly buried two days earlier by 28-year-old Josh Brandon Vallum on his father’s rural property. Williamson was said to have been living with Mercedes in nearby Theodore, Ala., at the time, but both she and Vallum had home addresses in George County. Josh is facing first-degree murder changes. Williamson had been beaten to death.

Penny Proud, 22 February 10, 2015 New Orleans, Louisiana

Penny Proud, 22, was fatally shot multiple times by an unidentified assailant February 10th on the 1100 block of North Claiborne Ave., in the Treme district of New Orleans. Robbery was the suspected motive. No suspects have been named.

Kristina Gomez Reinwald, 46 February 15, 2015 Miami-Dade, Florida

Kristine Gomez Reinwald, who performed in Miami under the name Kristina Grant Infiniti, was found stabbed to death in her home at 2045 SW 58 Ct., near Coral Gables. Although an ex-boyfriend was initially thought to be the murderer, no charges have been filed in the case.

Ashton O’Hara, 25 July 14, 2015 Detroit, Michigan

Bri Golec, 22 February 13, 2015 Akron, Ohio

Mya Shawatza Hall was shot and killed after trying to ram her car into the front gate of the National Security Agency in Fort Meade, MD. Mya was said to have been having a drug-fueled tryst before stealing a SUV for a joyride that ended in the crash and shooting. No charges were filed. A friend, 20-year-old Kevin Fleming, was also in the SUV at the time of the accident.

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Keyshia Blige was shot to death while driving in her car with a friend. Because she was initially reported as a male on police documents, the transgender identification was delayed for three months. No suspect has been arrested.

Mya Shawatza Hall, 27

March 30, 2015 Fort Meade, Maryland

October 22, 2015

Bri (Brian) Golec, 22, was stabbed to death in his home in Akron, OH. His father Kevin Golec, 53, an alleged heron addict, was charged with the crime.

Keyshia Blige, 33

March 7, 2015 Aurora, Illinois

Ashton O’Hara was a gender fluid transgender who was stabbed to death and then run over by a car in a brutal slaying. Ashton’s suspected killer, 37-year-old Larry B. Gaulding was arrested and stands accused of first-degree murder.


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IN MEMORIAM

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Shade Schuler, 22 July 29, 2015 Dallas, Texas

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The severely decomposed body of 22-year-old Shade Schuler was found in an empty field in the 5600 block of Riverside Drive in Dallas. Shade had been shot, and her body later dumped in the field. While the police were initially unable to determine the victim’s race, her photograph’s later revealed that she was black. No suspect has been charged in the crime.

Elisha Walker, 20

Remains found on August 13, 2015 Johnston County, North Carolina

India Clarke, 25 July 21, 2015 Tampa, Florida

India Clarke was killed with a single gunshot wound to the head, and her body left in University Community Park in Tampa, FL. Eighteen-yearold Keith Gaillard was charged with the crime. He had been arrested 25 times since the age of 11. Tampa police continue to list Clarke under her given name Samuel and list her sex as a male.

Amber MonRoe, 20 August 8, 2015 Detroit, Michigan

Amber MonRoe was shot in the same park in Detroit where her friend Ashton O’Hara had been killed a month earlier. It is an area of town known for gay, straight and transgender prostitution. Amber was shot once after exiting a car in the area. No suspects have been charged with the crime.

The death of Elisha Walker was labeled a hate crime after her body was finally discovered nearly a year after she was reported missing. Her car had been found abandoned and burned in a field on October 23, 2014. By the time her body was discovered in a shallow grave the following August, nearly the only thing left of Elisha were memories of a vibrant student. Her boyfriend, gang member Angel Arias, has been charged with the murder and felony larceny of a motor vehicle.

K.C. Haggard, 66

October 22, 2015

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July 23, 2015 Fresno, California

One-time security guard K.C. Haggard was stabbed to death in the neck when she was walking around her Fresno neighborhood at 1:30 am in the morning. After walking over to a SUV, she was attacked by its passenger. The local police have no suspects, but are treating the murder as a hate crime.

Kandis Capri, 35 August 11, 2015

Phoenix, Arizona For Kandis Capri, the last moments of her life involved her car being towed from an apartment complex near 45th Avenue and Thomas Road in Phoenix. The transgender woman had recently enrolled at South Mountain Community College, intent on studying theology. She was shot multiple times in the front and back, and her purse and cell phone were missing from the scene.

Tamara Dominguez, 36 August 15, 2015 Kansas City, Missouri

Tamara Dominguez’s death was brutal by anyone’s standards. She was deliberately hit and run over by an SUV, and then run over a second and third time, to make certain that the body was unrecognizable. Making the scene all the more unbelievable, it happened in the parking lot of a Methodist church. No suspects are being investigated, although there were eyewitnesses to the crime.


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October 22, 2015

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WORLD NEWS FLASH

AFTER THE SYNOD:

Everything Has Changed

October 22, 2015

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NICOLE WINFIELD Associated Press

VATICAN CITY (AP) - It’s now quite certain that Pope Francis’ big summit on family issues won’t endorse any changes to church doctrine on the church’s teaching about homosexuality or whether civilly remarried Catholics can receive Communion. And yet, it seems, everything has changed. From the crucial role African bishops have played in the debate, to calls to remove “intrinsically disordered” from the church’s language on gays, to the freedom bishops now enjoy to speak their minds on once-taboo issues, Francis’ synod on the family has at the very least shaken up the church for years to come. And if Francis has his way, there’s more ahead. Francis delivered a sleeper bombshell of a speech over the weekend kicking off the final week of the synod in which he called for nothing less than a revolution in the concept of the Catholic Church itself. He said it’s not a top-down organization with the pope in charge but rather an inverted pyramid where the summit - the pope is underneath and in service to the “holy faithful people of God” who are its base. He called for a “healthy decentralization” of authority on certain problems from Rome to local bishops’ conferences, and said the papacy itself should be rethought,

with the pope guiding the church but really just one bishop among many, one Catholic among many. “It’s a very delicate moment, where you realize that the relationship between the church and the world is at stake,” the Rev. Antonio Spadaro, a Jesuit close to Francis, said as the synod entered its third and crucial week. The 270 synod “fathers” are hammering out a final document to submit to Francis on Saturday conveying a host of proposals for how the church can better minister to Catholic families today. They will vote paragraph by paragraph on the text, amending what has been a near-universally scorned draft working document. What Francis does with the final paper is up to him: He can use it as a basis for a document of his own, he can ignore it, or he can publish it as a synod document. During Round One of the bishops’ family meeting last year, Francis not only published the final document in full, he published the three paragraphs that didn’t receive the necessary votes to pass - those that dealt with the vexing issues of ministering to gay Catholics and civilly remarried Catholics. The key question of Round Two has been how the bishops would pick up those two outstanding issues, after Francis called for a more merciful, less doctrinaire approach.

Francis has shown a far more pastoral attitude to gays, famously saying “Who am I to judge” about a purportedly gay priest. But church teaching holds that while gays themselves should be treated with dignity and respect, homosexual acts are “intrinsically disordered.” Progressives have sought a new language that is more welcoming and less condemning, but proposals last year to recognize that homosexual unions had some merit were quashed by conservatives. While the final document won’t be known until Saturday, several bishops have said the church’s language towards gays must emphasize that gays like heterosexuals are children of God, regardless of their sexual orientation, and must be welcomed into the church. On the civil remarriage issue, church teaching holds that unless these remarried Catholics annul their first marriages, they are committing adultery and cannot receive Communion. Progressives have sought wiggle room, to look at remarried couples on a case-by-case basis, accompanying them on a path of reconciliation that could lead to them eventually receiving the sacraments. Conservatives led by Africans have held fast to doctrine, insisting that Jesus himself taught that a valid marriage is indissoluble.

“I don’t think we’re ever going to get consensus on some of these hot-button issues,” Australian Archbishop Mark Coleridge told reporters Monday. “But was that ever a realistic possibility? I doubt it. The one thing that is certain about next Sunday is that we won’t have finished the task. This journey will continue.” Indeed, many participants have spoken about the remarkable freedom they now feel to speak about previously taboo topics - encouraged by the Jesuit pope to use the


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POPE DELIVERS BOMBSHELL known until Saturday, several bishops have said the church’s

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While the final document won’t be

language towards gays must emphasize that gays like heterosexuals are children of God, regardless of their sexual orientation, and must be welcomed into the church.

The 270 Synod “fathers” discussion on the final document.

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bishops can speak in total freedom in the protected synod hall, knowing that journalists are kept at bay and that the pope is the guarantor of the church’s unity. And even after the synod ends, Francis may have more surprises up his cassock sleeve. On Dec. 8, he launches his yearlong “Jubilee of Mercy,” during which he has already given ordinary priests rather than just bishops the ability to absolve women of the sin of abortion. “We have to understand that we are living an ecclesial process of huge dimensions,” the Jesuit Spadaro told Vatican Radio. “So we shouldn’t be surprised that there are moments of fatigue, of blockage, difficulty and tensions. There’s also the joy that we are creating history together.”

October 22, 2015

Jesuit spiritual exercise to discern what God really wants from them. That has implications for how bishops at home will deal with pastoral issues, listening to their flock more and perhaps being more creative in their ministry than merely reciting doctrine. And it may well trickle down to ordinary Catholics, called upon to discern in their conscience what God wants from them. On the first full working day of the synod, Canadian Archbishop PaulAndre Durocher proposed ordaining women as deacons, to help relieve the priest shortage and give women more roles in the church. The proposal hasn’t gone anywhere, but the fact that it was even tabled is indicative of a new atmosphere Francis has ushered in, where

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NATIONAL NEWS UPDATE

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7,000 bigots come out to play b

WILL WEISSERT Associated Press

ary to bellow “Yes!” He pointed to the Supreme Court ruling on gay marriage, and to businesses that he said had faced boycotts because they opposed same-sex weddings on religious grounds. “I believe that 2016 is going to be a religious-liberty election,” Cruz said to raucous applause. “As these threats grow darker and darker and darker, they are waking people up here in Texas and all across this country.” Fiorina was more subdued, saying her faith was once “a little abstract” since “I came to think of God as a CEO of a big enterprise. He was in charge, but he couldn’t possibly know every little detail.” But, she told the faithful, she later discovered that “each one of us can have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.” “God knows what’s going on in our lives,” she said, “and that personal relationship saw me through many hard times.” All candidates decried abortion. But Bush highlighted what he called his record of “defense of life” while governor, reminding the crowd that he intervened in the case of Terri Schiavo, a brain-damaged Florida woman at the center of a protracted court fight over having her feeding tube removed.

“I didn’t talk about it,” Bush said. “I got to act.” Grassroots groups in tea partydominated Texas largely have shunned Bush in favor of insurgent candidates like Cruz or Trump, but Bush has courted Christian conservatives at many events around the country organized by the Faith and Freedom Coalition, which also helped put together Sunday’s gathering. Bush spoke last and some streamed for the exits as he took the stage - after sitting through hours of candidates and intermissions featuring gospel music and a choir rendition of “America the Beautiful.” The Plano forum also offered presidential hopefuls a chance to make inroads in Texas, the country’s largest conservative state. Officials moved the presidential primary up from May to March 1, and Texas is now set to be the largest of 13 states voting on “Super Tuesday.” Bush was born in the oil-patch town of Midland, his brother George W. was Texas governor before he was president and his father, George H.W., lives in Houston. Graham declared, “Welcome to Bush country.” Bush smiled and replied, “Is that named after my brother or my dad?”

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it,’” Bush said. “That’s just wrong.” Not attending was GOP frontrunner Donald Trump. “Everyone was invited to come but we believe the right people are in the room today,” said pastor Jack Graham, who interviewed all the candidates about the importance of faith in their lives. He identified those gathered as evangelicals whom he called “Christians who believe the Bible.” Santorum subsequently declared himself an “evangelical Catholic.” Responding to questions about his church’s non-profit status perhaps being violated because the event was political, Graham said that Democratic presidential hopefuls were also invited - but didn’t appear. Carson declared, “It’s time for us to bring God back to our country,” bringing the crowd to its feet despite his self-admitted “calm demeanor that people mistake as softness.” “It’s not softness; it’s just the ability to look at things from multiple perspectives without getting angry about it,” Carson clarified, saying God gave him the ability to do so. Cruz said faith in America “was under assault,” prompting some in the sprawling, stadium-style sanctu-

October 22, 2015

PLANO, TX (AP) - A half-dozen Republican presidential hopefuls worked to woo thousands of evangelicals at a Texas megachurch in suburban Dallas on Sunday, declaring their unwavering support for “religious liberty” even after the Supreme Court legalized gay marriage and their defense of life in abortion cases and beyond. Some of those making personal appeals - Sen. Ted Cruz, retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson, former Sen. Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee - are already darlings of Christian conservatives. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and ex Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina, meanwhile, might like to be. But the four-plus hour event before what organizers said was a crowd of 7,000 at the Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano underscored the importance of the religious right, as well as the potentially pivotal role Texas’ earlierthan-usual primary could play in the 2016 race. Prestonwood claims nearly 40,000 members over multiple Dallas-area campuses. “I’m trying to separate church and politics, but Hillary Clinton said people of faith, ‘Just have to get over

Photo: communityimpact.com


October 22, 2015

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SUNSHINE STATE

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College scholarships offered to Florida LGBTQ students

Orange County repeals benefits for unmarried gay couples ORLANDO, FL (AP) -- Orange County’s government is ending domestic-partner benefits for unmarried same sex couples now that gay marriage is legal. County commissioners on Tuesday repealed the domestic partner benefits program for Orange County employees who are in unmarried gay relationships. The repeal takes effect at the start of next year. Eleven county employees use the program, and they will continue to have medical

coverage until the end of next year. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled last June that same-sex couples have a right to marry. Officials with the gay civil rights group Equality Florida say Orange County should expand its domestic partner program to unmarried heterosexual couples rather than repeal it for unmarried gay couples. They say Orange County, home to Orlando, will be at a competitive disadvantage compared to other counties.

What’s your opinion? The Florida Agenda welcomes signed Letters to the Editor, up to 400 words in length, on topics of general interest to our readers. You may e-mail submissions to Editor@mmplgbt. com. We welcome comments on our Facebook page also.

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society.” Point’s rigorous selection process for awarding scholarships requires candidates to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills, community involvement, and financial need. Attention is given to applicants who lost financial and social support as a result of revealing their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. Point’s support for scholars extends beyond direct financial contribution toward the cost of their education. Each scholar is paired with a mentor and participates in leadership development training with fellow Point Scholars. Point Scholars also work with their mentors to give back to the LGBTQ community by completing an individual community service project each year. During October 2015, Point is partnering with Equality Forum to provide scholars with opportunities to create community service projects recognizing LGBT History Month. After graduation, scholars become part of Point’s growing alumni network, connecting them with caring individuals and professional contacts in a wide range of fields throughout the nation. Point has invested $18 million in support of 300 LGBTQ scholars since its founding in 2001. Applications open online November 1 at www.pointfoundation.org/apply.

October 22, 2015

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer students seeking financial assistance for their undergraduate or graduate school education are eligible to apply for a Point Foundation Scholarship. Point Foundation (Point) is the nation’s largest scholarship-granting organization for LGBTQ students of merit and currently provides financial assistance and programmatic support to 85 students. Students enrolling in undergraduate or graduate programs for the 2016-2017 academic year are eligible to apply for Point’s multiyear scholarship. Point’s scholarship support addresses multiple challenges students face such as the cost of college tuition and fees, which continue to rise faster than both inflation and average wages. Student loan debt in the U.S. now exceeds $1 trillion, according to Debt.org. LGBTQ students also contend with other potential barriers to achieving their educational goals. “Many of our scholarship applicants face rejection from peers, communities, and their own families. But they face this rejection head on, often seeing college as their ticket to a better life,” says Jorge Valencia, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer of Point Foundation. “Point helps makes educational opportunities available to these young people who are striving to improve their lives and also make a positive impact on


October 22, 2015

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Ryan Uhler from Facebook post Photo: advocate.com

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SUNSHINE STATE

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Birth certificate dispute heads back to court suing birth certificates listing both spouses as the parents of their own children,” said Shannon Minter, Legal Director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, which represents the plaintiffs. “Florida law requires the state to issue birth certificates listing both spouses to all married couples, and the Supreme Court’s decision this past summer makes clear that it is unconstitutional for the state to treat married same-sex couples differently than opposite-sex couples with respect to birth certificates.” On August 13, 2015, the couples, along with Equality Florida Institute, the largest organization representing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Floridians, filed a lawsuit challenging Florida’s refusal to issue birth certificates listing both spouses as parents of their children. The plaintiffs are represented by NCLR and Florida attorneys Mary Meeks and Elizabeth Schwartz. Today’s filing asks the court to order immediate relief.

floridaagenda.com

TALLAHASSEE —The samesex couples who filed a federal lawsuit challenging Florida’s refusal to add both of their names to their children’s birth certificates asked the court for immediate protection for their families last Friday. The request for a preliminary injunction filed by Debbie and Kari Chin of St. Petersburg and Yadira Arenas and Alma Vazquez of Winter Haven says: “Defendants’ discriminatory denial of equal birth certificates to Plaintiffs and their children ... violates plaintiffs’ fundamental right to marry and to have their marriages treated equally and denies these families the privacy, dignity, legitimacy, security, support, and protections available to similarly-situated marrieddifferentsex parents and their children. There is no justification, let alone a constitutionally adequate one, for imposing these irreparable harms on the Plaintiffs’ families.” ”There is no excuse for the State of Florida’s continued delay in is-

The Chin Family: Plaintiffs in the Florida Birth Certificate Lawsuit

Not having a birth certificate listing both spouses is discriminatory, stigmatizing, and humiliating to these families, who deserve the same security and respect as the families of other married couples.

(Photo: eqfl.org)

It also prevents parents from taking care of their children’s everyday needs like obtaining healthcare, making medical decisions, signing up for daycare, and enrolling in government programs and benefits.

New bill wants to exempt services for “religious freedom” ting privileges to a state-licensed hospital within 30 miles of the clinic, rendering abortions for many women in rural parts of Florida inaccessible. The LGBT-rights group Equality Florida had a decidedly negative take on last year’s efforts on religious freedom or “conscience protection” legislation, as it was called by advocates. “A bill intended to permit taxpayerfunded, government sanctioned discrimination that shrinks the pool of potential adoptive parents is immoral and cruel,” executive director Nadine Smith said. “Thankfully the Senate had the good sense to stop this bad bill from becoming law. We will do all we can to ensure that Florida law continues to put children ahead of prejudice as our state has since 2008 when the courts struck down the anti-gay adoption ban.” So far, Gonzalez’s new bill, HB 401, does not have a Senate companion bill.

October 22, 2015

TALLAHASSEE--Rep. Julio Gonzalez, an orthopaedic surgeon practicing in Venice, Florida, has sponsored his first bill of the 2016 legislation session in Tallahassee aimed at giving immunity to businesses that want to deny services on grounds of “religious freedom,” including private child-placement agencies. Specifically, the bill amends the “Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1998” to stipulate that any entity owned by a religious institution is “not required to produce, create, or deliver a product or service that would be contrary to the religious or moral convictions or policies” of the entity, with child-placing agencies specifically enumerated. Last year, Gonzalez co-sponsored a controversial abortion bill that would have shuttered many clinics that administer the procedure. The 2015 Session’s HB 147 would have required physicians to have admit-

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October 22, 2015

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October 22, 2015

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Michael D. Becker Attorney at Law 201 NE 2nd Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 954-727-5067 / becker-lawyer.com Law Offices of George Castrataro 707 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite 300 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 954-573-1444 / lawgc.com Law Offices of Phillip Menditto 524 S Andrews Avenue, Suite 200 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 954-641-9100 / phillipmenditto.com Law Offices of Caro Kinsella 20801 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 403 Miami, FL 33180 954-304-2243 / immigrationlawyerfl.com Dean Trantalis Attorney 2255 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-566-2226 / trantalislaw.com

AUTO Vista Motors BMW 744 N Federal Hwy Pompano Beach, FL 855-793-7093 / vistabmw.com

CHURCH / SPIRITUAL

FOOD / GROCERY Diana’s 12001 Avalon Lake Drive Orlando, FL 32828 407-207-0205 /dianasbakeryandcafe.com

Center for Spiritual Living 1550 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-566-2868 / cslftl.com 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

COUNSELING Shoshana Paris House Call Counselor shoshana.paris@gmail.com 954-985-5362 / 305-951-1279

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DENTAL

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FINANCIAL

Bove Dental 2500 E Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306 954-564-0181 / bovedentistry.com Magnolia Dental 12014 E. Colonial Drive, Ste 130 Orlando, FL 32826 407-205-9585/ MagnoliaDentalFL.com

Wilton Manors Dental 2517 N.E. 9th Avenue Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-564-4746 / wiltonmanorsdental.com

EVENTS I DO Custom Events PO Box 2357 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 954-626-0131 / idocustomevents.com Source Events 605 Lincoln Road, #410 Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-672-9779 / sourceevents.com

FINANCIAL

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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

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Marvel Quevedo Insurance Agency 5062 South Conway Road Orlando, FL 32812 407-737-7778

Joe Grano Realtor 1881 NE 26th Street, Suite 212 Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-931-0031 / joegrano.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY Dennis Dean Images 3554 NE 12th Avenue Oakland Park, FL 33334 954-240-8307 / dennisdean.com

PAWNBROKERS Sunrise Pawnbrokers 3043 N Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306 954-563-3147 / SunrisePawn.com

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UPHOLSTERY

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YOUR LIFE: AN OWNER’S MANUAL

You Can’t Reject Me

R

ejection is one of the hardest emotions to experience. We all have felt levels of rejection at some time in our life. Negative self-perceptions and beliefs already plague us throughout the day and then, suddenly, somehow a stranger is able to make us feel worse about ourselves. I’ve By worked with James many clients Miller who have shared their experiences in meeting people in person or on mobile dating applications, and how they often feel worse about themselves after the encounter. If the person with whom they are speaking says they are fat, ugly, or not their type, it will often

cause my clients to feel poorly about themselves. Usually, they tell me they either respond negatively to the person or they feel badly about themselves for some time. The misperception about rejection is this: no one can reject you; only you can reject yourself. It’s one of the most important lessons we can learn in life. No one knows us the way we know ourselves. We know all the embarrassing moments, all the areas we perceive as faults or shortcomings, or things we’ve never told anyone before. When we have an interaction with someone, who points out a weakness we already perceived in ourselves, we then take every hidden detail and negative self-belief and project it on to that person, who then reflects and magnifies it back on to us. In doing so, it solidifies all the negative feelings we have about ourselves and reinforces the negative insecurities that already

plague us. Think about it, how can a person who has never met you have that much power over you? When you project your insecurity on to a situation or person, you will automatically feel rejected and then respond negatively. The way to work through rejection is to ask yourself, “What is it about me that I feel is being rejected?” Don’t think about the person, focus on what sparked the rejection. Is it your body, your laugh, your intelligence, your job, your car, etc.? When you can pinpoint the actual detail, then ask yourself, “Do I believe what he said or implied is true?” If you don’t, then there is no need to feel rejected; the person simply doesn’t know you and you don’t want to waste your time on him. If you feel there is some truth in what’s been said, then analyze it. Remember, that individual only had a brief encounter with you; he doesn’t have all the years of data and informa-

tion on you that you projected on the situation. It’s important to put perspective on any interaction someone has with you. If you believe something to be true, then it’s true. Finding and demonstrating compassion for yourself is incredibly important. It is vital to immediately use positive self-talk to negate what someone has said to you. When you speak aloud positive words of self-affirmation, it starts to counteract the negative internal self-talk. No one can love you better than you. A stranger does not determine your worth, you do. James Miller is a licensed psychotherapist who resides in West Palm Beach, FL. His website JamesMillerLifeology.com offers his students his virtual courses aimed at allowing them to simply and transform their lives.


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FAST FIT Regardless of your weight or current health, drinking a minimum of 64 ounces of water per day is vital.

While it’s true that carbohydrates are simple and complex sugar molecules that supply the body with its favored source of energy, they are the innocent victims of a slur campaign. The national Academy of Sciences recommends that the average adult consume 130 grams of carbohydrates per day.

Fat displaces water-rich muscle, reducing the available H2O to a low of 45% of total weight. Less water in the body slows every one of our body processes including metabolism.

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By Richard Hack and Andy Kress from their book Baby Boomers’ Guide to the Fountain of Youth

4 Vitamin C is more amazing than you thought. It decreases your risk of ever developing cataracts up to 75% and helps to increase your muscle strength during exercise, among other benefits.

HALLOWEEN COSTUME...

What Halloween Costume???

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Copyright © 2015 The Werks Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Werks, LeatherWerks, PaddleWerks, Lifestyle Club, BootWerks and “Where Leather is a Lifestyle” are Registered Trademarks of The Werks Company, LLC

October 22, 2015

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October 22, 2015

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October 22, 2015

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LGBTQ HISTORY MONTH

‘The Women of San Quentin’ comes amid historic changes

A

new book chronicling the lives of nine trans-

gender women across the country who have been incarcerated comes amid historic

October 22, 2015

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progress for such prisoners. BY SETH HEMMELGARN

“The Women of San Quentin: Soul Murder of Transgender Women in Male Prisons,” by Kristin Schreier Lyseggen, was released in September. Schreier Lyseggen, who lives in Berkeley, Calif., traveled around the United States to speak with incarcerated trans women about their experiences with rape, assault and trying to get access to hormones. On one front, at least, there has been some good news, as California prison officials recently announced they would provide gender-affirming surgery for a transgender inmate. Additionally, a transgender woman in Georgia was recently released, apparently due to pressure form a lawsuit. But Schreier Lyseggen, who didn’t give her age, indicated, despite progress, problems are likely to persist for many people. “In order to find solutions, we have to see, how did these people end up in prison in the first place?” Schreier Lyseggen said, adding, “it is a race issue. Transgender women of color are suffering the most. They are down at the bottom of the caste system we have,” frequently struggling with a lack of employment, health care and other problems. Asked about solutions, Schreier Lyseggen said, “First, we have to make them safe. We can’t just sit and watch them being raped.” She added, “People like me who are white, privileged and straight” need to “start getting involved and not treat these people as second- and thirdclass citizens.” One of the people featured in “The Women of San Quentin” is Shiloh Quine. In August, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation reached a groundbreaking settlement with Quine, 56, to provide surgery and other medical care. “After so many years of almost giving up on myself, I will finally be liberated from the prison within a prison I felt trapped in, and feel whole, both as a woman and as a human being,” Quine said in a news release from the Oakland-based Transgender Law Center, which has been helping to

represent Quine. Quine has been serving a term of life without the possibility of parole since 1981 after being convicted in Los Angeles County for first-degree murder, kidnapping and robbery. She’s being held in Mule Creek State Prison, a men’s facility in Ione, Calif. According to the book, Quine wrote to Schreier Lyseggen that she’d told police in 1980 “that the gun used to murder someone was hers, even though it wasn’t. She was serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole for a murder she said she did not commit.” In its news release, Flor Bermudez, TLC’s detention project director, said, “Ms. Quine will be the first transgender inmate in the country to receive gender-affirming surgery while incarcerated, to our knowledge.” TLC executive director Kris Hayashi said, “This historic settlement is a tremendous victory, not just for Shiloh and transgender people in prison, but for all transgender people who have ever been denied medical care or basic recognition of our humanity just because of who we are.” In an email, CDCR spokesman Jeffrey Callison said officials treat situations like Quine’s on a “case-bycase basis.” Callison said his agency “evaluates every case individually and, in the Quine case, every medical doctor and mental-health clinician who has reviewed this case, including two independent mental-health experts, determined that this surgery is medically necessary for Quine.” In a phone interview last month, CDCR spokeswoman Terry Thornton noted another part of the settlement is that the agency’s policy will allow transgender people access to all the items listed in prison catalogs. “If a transgender inmate wants female items, and she’s in a male institution, she’ll have access to those items as well now,” Thornton said. Another woman Schreier Lyseggen profiled has also been in the news recently. Ashley Diamond, 37, is suing the Georgia Department of Corrections for denying her hormone treatments,


/floridaagenda /floridaagenda floridaagenda.com

SHILOH QUINE

ASHLEY DIAMOND

photo: 11alive.com

transgender inmates in Georgia and nationwide.” Facing scrutiny, GDC has “revised its gender-dysphoria policy and adopted new guidelines to provide constitutionally appropriate treatment,” SPLC said, and the state agency agreed to give Diamond access to hormones. However, the dosage was “inadequate for months,” the group said. GDC spokeswomen didn’t respond to the Bay Area Reporter’s requests for comment. In response to an emailed question about why she used San Quentin in her book’s title, Schreier Lyseggen said, among other reasons, the northern California institution “has been a symbol of prison life in America,” and two of the women she wrote about have been incarcerated there.

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Seth Hemmelgarn is an assistant editor at the Bay Area Reporter. He can be reached at s.hemmelgarn@ ebar.com.

October 22, 2015

which she had received before being incarcerated, and a safe environment, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. Diamond was released in August from Augusta State Medical Prison after serving almost three years of an 11-year sentence for “a nonviolent offense,” according to SPLC, which filed a lawsuit on Diamond’s behalf in February. The organization said in a news release that Diamond had been housed with male prisoners and was “sexually assaulted eight times.” Diamond was going to be up for parole this fall, but SPLC attributed her release to the lawsuit. “I’m overjoyed to be with my family again and out of harm’s way,” Diamond said in the nonprofit’s statement. “Although the systematic abuse and assaults I faced for more than three years have left me emotionally and physically scarred, I’ll continue to fight for justice and to shine a light on the gross mistreatment of

photo: theguardian.com


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PUZZLE Roomer Has It

October 22, 2015

46

Across

1 First man to say to a man, “You slay me!”? 5 Hard blow 9 Bean and Burke waved theirs around 13 Item on a docket 14 “June Is Bustin’ Out All ___” 15 Exotica director Egoyan 16 “Doggone it!” 17 Go down 18 Zip 19 She was a roomer at Meredith Grey’s house 21 She was a roomer at Meredith Grey’s house 22 Peters out 23 Bambi’s aunt 24 Producer Neil 27 Singer Etheridge 31 R.E.M.’s “The ___ Love” 32 Pansy, e.g., to Pasolini 34 Silver screen computer 35 With 50-Across, group that Meredith Grey could join if she got rid of her roomers 38 “Can’t Get It Out of My Head” rock gp. 39 Witherspoon of Legally Blonde 2 40 Palindromic male name 41 The guy you’re seeing? 43 Ponders 44 They could come from Uranus 45 Susan B. Anthony dollar, e.g. 47 She was a roomer at Meredith Grey’s house 50 See 35-Across 54 ___ Baldwin Doesn’t Love Me 55 It brings out the flavor in your meat 56 De Matteo of Desperate Housewives 57 Triangle ratio 58 Reed in a Ned Rorem work 59 Word from a pen 60 What fluffers give 61 Perry Mason star Raymond 62 Catches on to

Down

1 Current band of the past? 2 Roseanne, once and again 3 Morales of` Jericho 4 Cole Porter song from Paris 5 Singer David 6 Maurice of Bewitched 7 Sultry Horne 8 Threesome for Michelangelo 9 Japanese battle cry 10 The whole shebang 11 Tara portrayer Collette 12 Opponent of Tinkerbell 20 Metal container 21 Shoreline opening 23 Like Christopher Rice’s stories 24 Surfer’s need 25 ___ Gay 26 Scouting job 27 Shortens leaves of grass 28 Oral pleasures at a gay bar 29 Cook in a wok, maybe 30 Some opera queens 32 Ridges on Melissa’s neck 33 Words said with a nod 36 Mount the soapbox 37 Elvis song about a real bitch? 42 Freed from frost 43 To me, to Hirschfeld 45 Pink, for one 46 Movie like Rock Hudson’s Gun Fury 47 S/M unit 48 Foundation for Humanity name 49 Warrior Princess of the boob tube 50 Seinfeld character from Pakistan 51 Canal traveled by New York ferries 52 Let out 53 Competitor of Barneys 55 Have a bawl For the solution to this puzzle, go to www.floridaagenda.com/puzzle


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October 22, 2015

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THE WEEK: FORT LAUDERDALE .

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10/23 Rob Thomas

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Matchbox Twenty lead singer and songwriter Rob Thomas has had a successful solo career apart from his work with the popular rock band. He earned three Grammy Awards for his collaboration with Santana on the 1999 single “Smooth” and has maintained a constant touring schedule. An article he wrote for the Huffington Post supporting gay marriage in 2009 went viral and solidified his status as a major LGBT ally. 8:00 p.m. Hard Rock Live. 5747 Seminole Way. Hollywood. 33314.

10/22 Cheap Trick

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Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Cheap Trick have been rolling out the hits since the 1970s. They have sold over twenty million records and have won forty gold and platinum recording awards. Their most popular singles include “I Want You to Want Me,” “Surrender,” and “Dream Police.” 8:00 p.m. Hard Rock Live. 5747 Seminole Way. Hollywood. 33314.

photo:fanart.tv

10/28 Demetri Martin

photo: bighassle.com

October 22, 2015

By Patrick Robert

photo: wikimedia.com

Demetri Martin’s performance at the 2003 Edinburgh Festival Fringe earned him a Perrier Award and his first big break. From there he wrote for Late Night with Conan O’Brien and secured his own Comedy Central stand-up special. Later, he would become a fixture on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart and would even create and star in his own TV show, Important Things with Demetri Martin. 8:00 p.m. Parker Playhouse. 707 NE Eighth St. Fort Lauderdale. 33301.


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THE WEEK: MIAMI

photo: wikimedia.com

photo: clubzone.com

10/24 Ricky Martin Not too long ago, Ricky Martin was the most successful performer in the world, riding the wave of the Latin music boom in America. His first English-language album Ricky Martin is one of the best-selling albums of all time, having sold 22 million copies. Since that time, Martin has come out of the closet, released multiple Spanish language albums, broken up with his boyfriend Carlos Gonzalez Abella, and become a father of twins. 8:00 p.m. American Airlines Arena. 601 Biscayne Blvd. Miami. 33132.

From being swindled by an egotistical Kanye West to becoming the face of lovelorn millennials to becoming the world dominator that she is today, Taylor Swift has grown up quickly before America’s eyes. The pop star began her career as a country singer before eventually crossing over into the mainstream. Her recent pop release 1989 not only became hugely successful, but it also spawned Ryan Adams’ critically acclaimed track-by-track cover album.7:00 p.m. American Airlines Arena. 601 Biscayne Blvd. Miami. 33132.

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Broadway legend Bernadette Peters is one of the most critically acclaimed Broadway performers of the last century. She has won two Tony Awards, three Drama Desk Awards, and routinely sells out solo concerts and recordings. She is widely regarded as the muse and greatest interpreter of Stephen Soundheim’s works, having been featured in Annie Get Your Gun, Sunday in the Park with George, and Into the Woods. 6:30 p.m. Aventura Arts and Cultural Center. 3385 NE 188th St. Aventura. 33180.

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10/27 Taylor Swift

10/23 Bernadette Peters

photo: tvweek.com

October 22, 2015 49


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THE WEEK: JACKSONVILLE .

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10/24 Katt Williams

photo: billboard.com

For over twelve years, the famously permed comedian has been entertaining America with his witty, animated performances. His breakout role came on MTV’s highly-rated improve show Wild n’ Out; this helped him land prime gigs in such films as Friday After Next and First Sunday. After having just finished his highly acclaimed Born Again…Again tour, Williams is back with a new standup set titled Conspiracy Theory. 8:00 p.m. Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd. Jacksonville. 32202.

10/22 Tyler Farr

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Farr’s unique voice has led to recent popularity within the country music scene. His first single “Hot Mess” established his perspective before he moved to Columbia Nashville records and released such singles as “Hello Goodbye” and “Redneck Crazy.” His recent release Suffer in Peace reached the second position on the US County chart. 7:30 p.m. Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd. Jacksonville. 32202.

October 22, 2015

By Patrick Robert

photo: jaxevents.com

10/25 Chris Williams Soul Revival

photo: comedyhype.com

Jacksonville native Chris Williams and his band The Soul Revolution perform emotional soul music, entertaining audiences throughout the country. Their special concert series titled Soul Revival features Williams’ new music. Other acts include neo soul songstress Kia Nicole and Mr. Al Petel. 7:00 p.m. Ritz Theatre. 7:00 p.m. Ritz Theatre. 829 N. Davis St. Jacksonville. 32202.


.

Julliard School graduate Randall Atcheson is known as a musical Renaissance man—at home in such diverse genres as classical, gospel, and pop. The versatile pianist was the only student in the history of Julliard allowed to pursue simultaneous degrees in piano and organ performance. 7:30 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. 445 S. Magnolia Ave. Orlando. 32801.

As Halloween approaches, local professional singers and musicians join together to perform spooky songs. The classy cabaret will feature music from radio, stage, and screen, including select numbers from The Nightmare Before Christmas, Corpse Bride, and Titanic the Musical. 7:30 p.m. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. 445 S. Magnolia Ave. Orlando. 32801.

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10/26 A Haunting Cabaret

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10/23 Randall Atcheson

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THE WEEK: ORLANDO

.

photo:minimalismfilm.com

10/23 Orlando Film Festival

photo: drphillipscenter.org

In a mission to promote independent film, the annual Orlando Film Festival exposes a large Central Floridian audience to the diverse stories told by filmmakers from around the world. This year’s festival showcases Diego Lopes’ tale of futbol, Making History. Other films expected to be screened include Counter Clockwise, Dirty Beautiful, and Sleepwalkers. Various times. Various locations.

photo: drphillipscenter.org

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THE WEEK: PALM BEACH .

By Patrick Robert

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10/25 Young Frankenstein

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Mel Brooks’ ingenious re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend lampoons the entire horror genre. Young Dr. Frankenstein attempts to complete his grandfather’s masterwork of bringing a corpse to life. Unfortunately, his oddly shaped helper Igor, curvaceous lab assistant Inga, and narcissistic fiancé Elizabeth keep getting in the way. 8:00 p.m. Crest Theatre. 51 N. Swinton Ave. Delray Beach. 33444. photo: natlielevinestudio.com

October 22, 2015

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photo: ew.com

10/24 Jason Aldean

10/26 Natalie Levine’s Botanicals

This relatively new country music artist has already had fourteen number one singles on the Hot Country Songs chart, including “Why,” “She’s Country,” “Don’t You Wanna Stay,” and “When She Says Baby.” His newest album is titled Old Boots, New Dirt and includes the singles “Burnin’ It Down” and “Just Getting’ Started.” 7:30 p.m. Perfect Vodka Amphitheatre. 601-7 Sansburys Way. West Palm Beach. 33411.

Artist Natalie Levine uses mixed media collages of fantasy, color, and texture to express her imaginative perspective on botanicals. By manipulating flower parts, images of people, and found objects, she attempts to explain life’s often chaotic and ever-changing qualities. Levine is mostly known for her impressionistic work which evokes tranquility through landscape paintings. 9:00 a.m. Nathan D. Rosen Museum Gallery. 9901 Donna Klein Blvd. Boca Raton. 33428.

photo: pbaparchive.com


THE WEEK: TAMPA / ST. PETE .

The classic, generation defining children’s program Sesame Street brings its live production to the Ruth Eckerd Hall. Favorite characters Elmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby, and more welcome Grover’s friend from India, Chamki, to the famed street. Together, the cast explores the similarities and differences of various cultures, the deliciousness of cookies, and the importance of friendship. 10:30 a.m. Ruth Eckerd Hall. 1111 N. McMullen-Booth Rd. Clearwater. 33759.

1970s American rock band Kansas sold over one million copies of the single “Dust in the Wind,” a song that continues to receive heavy radio airplay. “Carry On Wayward Son” is almost just as popular—one of the most played tracks on classic radio stations. The group has had eight gold albums and three sextupleplatinum albums. Tonight’s intimate set at the Capitol Theatre is a change from their usual arena performances. 7:30 p.m. Capitol Theatre. 405 Cleveland St. Clearwater. 33755.

photo: jerseykids.com

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10/28 Kansas

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10/22 Sesame Street Live

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10/24 A Gentleman’s Guide

photo: youtube.com

Monty Navarro has a classic dilemma—he’s a distant heir to a family fortune and must find a way to inherit the money. His solution is to murder the line of succession in hopes that all his murders can be finished in time for tea. The 2012 Tony Award winner for Best Musical features songs “Inside Out” and “I Don’t Know What I’d Do.” 8:00 p.m. Straz Center for the Performing Arts. 1010 N. Macinnes Place. Tampa. 33602.

photo: wikimedia.com

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