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HOW MANY LGBT PEOPLE ARE THERE? Surprising New Study Emerges
MIAMI PRIDE: Andy Cohen Gets Candid PAGE 20
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Newsline Refuse to Lie n Fort Lauderdale n Miami n Bay Area n Central Florida n BODY
POZITIVE Bridges of Wellness and Push Fitness have joined forces on a ground breaking pilot project to improve the health of HIV+ men. PAGE 32 Courtesy, DavidGrafx
n MAYHEM Tracy Young & Peter Rauhofer spin the official Sunday night sanctioned event for Miami Beach Gay Pride Weekend at Cameo . PAGE 32 Courtesy, Mike Ruiz
n PINK
PARTY!
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The Flamingo Resort Florida’s largest gay resort presents their 2nd annual Pink Party with Billboard Magazine deejay, Bruce Devery. PAGE 33
n BABES IN
BONNETS A citywide event benefiting the Orlando Youth Alliance (OYA) Hosted by: Darcel Stevens and Michael Wanzie. PAGE 33 Courtesy, House of Lemay
Campaign Launches in Response to Murky IRS Laws for Legally Married Gay Couples By ALEX VAUGHN The Federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) not only denies legally married gay couples the 1138 legal protections and benefits of marriage, but the IRS also uses DOMA as a justification for telling couples to disavow their spouses. A new grassroots campaign called “Refuse to Lie” has been launched to assist legally married gay couples who plan to ignore the government’s requirement that they lie on their taxes by filing as “single.” “Refuse to Lie is a grassroots campaign that aims to make visible the impossible choice gay married couples have in choosing between the truth and the law,” said Nadine Smith, one of the organizers and the executive director of
Equality Florida. “As long as we quietly comply, our friends, neighbors, families and co-workers have no idea what is being done to us in their name,” said Smith. “As long as we are silent, they won't understand how humiliating, dehumanizing and plain wrong it is to force legally married couples who are gay to lie and deny our spouses.” On the website for the campaign, Smith illustrates her story with her partner Andrea, whom she married in Vermont, saying in response to the IRS asking couples to claim to be single, “It would be both dishonest and deeply humiliating to now disavow each other or our marriage and declare ourselves
Nadine Smith, Executive Director of Equality Florida Photo courtesy, Nadine Smith
single on our tax form.” She continued saying “We are expecting a son this spring. What will we teach him? Should we raise him to be honest and have integrity in his dealings with other people, but show him that his mothers tell
See ‘REFUSE TO LIE’ on Page 2
Australian Defence Force in Anti-Gay Facebook Furor
The ADF Has Yet to Discipline Those Behind Gay Hate Campaign By ALEX VAUGHN A homophobic Facebook group has been found trying to “out” Australia’s gay military personnel. At least 80 people from the Australian Defence Force were signed up to the page, which claimed to inform which colleagues are “biting the pillow.” The group – which called homosexuality a "filthy lifestyle decision" –went on to say: "It is your right to know who is biting the pillow. If you know any more bum bandits getting around in the ADF, shoot me an email.” The page, which has since been taken down, was also said to have links to violent, anti-gay videos on YouTube. According to Australia's Star Observer newspaper, one of those “outed” by the Facebook page has already received a
death threat in his work email, as well as a threatening note delivered to his house as a result. The Australian Defence Force has allowed gay servicemen and women to openly serve in its ranks since the 1990s. Complaints about anti-gay Facebook pages were received by the ADF in August 2010, but no action has been taken against members behind the page’s creation, a page that was created to expose and intimidate gay personnel. Fairfax Newspapers, however, report that the investigation into the page and the dozens of personnel who signed on as "friends" has been shelved and no one has been punished. The report comes as sources close to
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“REFUSE TO LIE” Continued from COVER
lies that make a mockery of our family when required to do so by the government?” The risks of taking this stand are unclear and the rules murky. DOMA has been deemed unconstitutional by two trial courts and those decisions are being appealed. Recently, President Obama and the US Department of Justice announced that they, too, found portions of DOMA unconstitutional and would no longer defend the discriminatory law. Nina E. Olson is the United States Taxpayer Advocate and is tasked with helping taxpayers solve their problems with the Internal Revenue Service. She is the only IRS employee authorized to make legislative proposals directly to Congress. In her annual report to Congress, Olson identified the confusion over legal filing requirements for gay couples as a major problem. “The IRS has not provided answers to these questions, requiring many taxpayers to file returns without knowing
news which rules apply and potentially subjecting them to audits and penalties, as well as costs for tax advice.” According Olsen’s report to Congress, the populations of individuals in samegender marriages and domestic partnerships were 63,658 and 174,760, respectively, in 2008, when only three states authorized same-gender marriages and ten recognized domestic partnerships. Nationwide, more than a million individuals are estimated to be living as same-gender couples (whether or not registered), over 20 percent of whom are raising children. In addition to highlighting this injustice, the Refuse to Lie campaign provides resources on what other couples might face if they to “refuse to lie” on their tax returns. The campaign also provides an opportunity for individuals and gay or straight married couples to sign a petition and stand in solidarity with those who are risking their freedom to demand their equality. Visit www.RefuseToLie.org to sign the petition and learn more. H
“DEFENCE FORCE” Continued from COVER
Defense Minister Stephen Smith told The Daily Telegraph that his office had received numerous threatening and abusive calls and emails over his handling of a female cadet who was broadcast having sex with another cadet. The military has rebuffed claims it has not acted over the gay-hate site. A key whistle-blower had also been warned to "pull his head in" as military supporters launch a rear-guard action against inquiries into the forces. Federal police have been called and will investigate whether some of the calls were made by serving Defence members. Mr. Smith's office has also fielded dozens of calls and emails from people who have been damaged by their military service. A barrister who was sexually assaulted with a broom handle and bashed by senior cadets at the Australian Defence Force Academy, including several who are now senior military officers, told the Telegraph that he had received a threatening phone call on Monday evening. The caller asked for him by name and then said he had a message for him. "Tell him to pull his head in. He is making himself very unpopular," the caller said. The barrister said he was not intimidated by the phone call. He has received no contact from Defence, despite a sworn statement from a witness to his assault that was received by the military in November, 2008. A former soldier, Oliver Thomas, from Wollongong, has come forward after he read about the barrister's treatment. He said he was hounded out on a trumpedup charge after he complained about racism. "The first thing I was told at Singleton army base was, 'If you get a chance to kill an African, do it, because it is the best feeling you will ever have'," he said. Dozens of soldiers reportedly signed
New HIV Program Incorporates Body, Mind and Spirit WILTON MANORS, FL – Bridges of Wellness and Push Fitness have joined forces on a groundbreaking pilot project designed to improve the overall mental and physical health of HIV men. The 12-week program is called “Total Body Pozitive” and will include highly structured workshops on mental health issues such as Healthy Relationship, Basic Beliefs of Loving and Self and Health and Healing with strategic fitness programs encompassing strength, cardio and flexibility training. The physical fitness portion of “Total Body Pozitive” will be handled through Push Fitness, a popular LGBT personal training gym which runs specialized fitness programs for HIV-positive men. “Our goal is to provide a complete program for HIV positive men to take care of themselves physically and holistically, giving attention to the body, mind and spirit,” said Charles Geddes, president and founder of Bridges of Wellness. “I am convinced the participants in Total Body Pozitive will walk away after 12 weeks both physically and emotionally stronger than they have ever been,” he added. “Combining an exercise program – essential for a healthy immune system – together with a program which promotes a new attitude and outlook on life
Attention Playwrights
U.S. Defense Minister, Stephen Smith onto the Facebook pages that targeted five ADF personnel for their "filthy lifestyle decision". "This matter is still the subject of ongoing investigation and it is inappropriate to comment further at this time," an ADF spokesman said. He told The Australian Online the ADF had a clear policy about "equity and diversity". "If there is a breach of these policies resulting in unacceptable behavior, Defence has in place clear policies for handling such breaches," the spokesman said. The material on the Facebook page was "contrary to everything that the Australian Defence Force stands for and has achieved in welcoming and supporting diversity across the organization". The spokesman did not say whether any Defence Force member connected with the homophobic pages had been punished. H
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FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The Women's Theatre Project is seeking short plays (5 to 15 minutes) with a lesbian theme, written by women; cast limit (women and men) is 2 to 8. Readings will take place June 24, 25 and 26, 2011, at the 3rd Annual Girl Play in partnership with the Pride Center at Equality Park. 14-16 scripts will be chosen and presented. Limited to two scripts per playwright and must be submitted in PDF format. Scripts may be submitted to: twtp@bellsouth.net with “Lesbian Playwriting Festival” written in subject line. Scripts may also be sent to: 505 NW 1st Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301. They must be received by midnight (ET) on March 31, 2011. No submission fee. H
Photo courtesy, iStock
is a winning combination,” said Peter Jackson, HIV fitness specialist and owner of Push Fitness. “The group fitness program, appropriate for all fitness levels, will improve strength, endurance and flexibility through a strategic series of exercises which take into consideration certain limitations such as joint pain and fatigue which often accompany HIV and its treatment,” Jackson said. Only nine men will be accepted into the initial Total Body Pozitive program, which consists of two weekly 60-minute fitness classes and one 90-minute workshop. The program kicks off on May 3. For more information and to apply for admission to the program, go online to www.PozFitness.com. H
Aqua Accepting Grant Applications MIAMI, FL – Aqua Foundation for Women is now accepting grant applications for the 2011 Grant Cycle. The Foundation offers grants up to $20,000 to organizations for projects that work toward improving the wellness and equality of lesbian, bisexual and transgender women in South Florida. These grants allow organizations to provide a variety of projects for LBT women. H
Cultural Collisions FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The Broward College District Board of Trustees President J. David Armstrong, Jr., and curator Francisco Sheuat invite the community to “Cultural Collisions,” an art exhibit featuring the works of some local artists. Cultural Collisions is a new art exhibition featuring the collaborative works and unique new art forms of Carmen Cordero, Julio Green, Timothy Leistner and Francisco Sheuat. Each artist comes from a unique cultural background and uses different art styles.The exhibit will run from April 14 to May 20 at the Broward College administrative art space on the 12th floor, 111 East Las Olas Boulevard in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The opening reception will be on Thursday, April 14, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by vocalist Erika Sassman and pianist, Johann Guzman. RSVP by calling (954) 201-7550. H
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Sailor Caught in Another Man’s Bunk Not to Be Kicked Out of Navy COLUMBIA, SC – The Navy has dropped dismissal proceedings against Petty Officer Stephen Jones. Charges had been brought up against Jones for unprofessional conduct after he was found in the same bed with another male sailor.
Petty Officer Stephen Jones
Photo courtesy, Bajan Sun Online
Jones and another sailor fell asleep in the same bunk late one evening while watching “The Vampire Diaries” on a computer. Jones was on top of the covers, the other sailor was under the covers and both were fully clothed. Jones’ attorney, Gary Myers claimed the Navy wanted to get rid of Jones because they suspected his client of being gay yet, there was no proof, admission or homosexual conduct. Myers, working through LGBT military rights organization Servicemembers United, suggested the prosecution
was simply trying to find a roundabout way to get rid of a sailor they suspected was gay using the charge “unprofessional conduct”. Military personnel are no longer permitted to be discharged from the armed services for being gay. H
Judge: Gay Groups Can Protest Outside Target SAN DIEGO, CA – A judge ruled that a pro-gay rights group could continue to canvas outside Target Department Stores in California. The protesters, however, would be required to stay at least 30 feet from the stores’ entrances and protest at only one entrance at a time. Target’s corporate headquarters had sought an injunction preventing gay activists from every one of their stores in the state, claiming customers were being harassed, given information in favor of same-sex marriage, being
Photo courtesy, ProjectQOnline.com
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solicited for donations and asked to sign petitions. The gay rights organization, Canvass for a Cause, said that the lawsuit would further hurt relationships between the LGBT community and Target, and they were simply exercising their right of free speech. Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Barton said Target stores may fall under a California law that considers shopping centers to be public forums. Also, canvassing over the last year occurred mainly without incident and Target failed to demonstrate that customers were being harassed. H
HUD Fair Housing Act Campaign Focuses on LGBT Community WASHINGTON, DC – The Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) has launched a new media campaign, “Live Free,” that will, among other things, strive to ensure people have equal access to housing regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. “While 20 states and over 200 local governments have led the way to make LGBT-related housing discrimination illegal, HUD is firmly committed to supporting the right of LGBT individuals and families to lead productive and dignified lives, free from housing discrimination and fear of retaliation,” said John Trasviña, HUD Assistant Secretary
Photo courtesy, Live Free Campaign PSAs
for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “HUD is finalizing a federal rule to ensure that HUD housing and programs are open to all, irrespective of marital status, gender identity and sexual orientation.” The “Live Free” print advertisements are focused to particular targeted audiences. For example, one print ad reads “Should Gender Stereotypes Influence Where Your Live? Learn More.” The “Live Free” campaign will run throughout the year and include Facebook ads, targeted print ads, digital videos, and podcasts. In 2010, HUD provided guidance to its staff on how to more effectively address Continues on NEWS on Page 8
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inquiries from LGBT individuals regarding housing discrimination issues, and also launched a webpage for the public on LGBT housing discrimination. Since then, HUD’s housing discrimination complaint level from LGBT individuals has increased significantly. From July 1, 2010, to February 28, 2011, LGBT individuals filed 47 complaints of housing discrimination with HUD alleging gender discrimination. During the same period straddling 2009 and 2010, prior to the issuance of the guidance, HUD only received three such complaints. H
Judge Judge Vaughn Vaughn Walker Photo courtesy, Queerty.com
Proposition 8 Judge Confirms He’s Gay SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Judge Vaughn Walker, the California U.S. 9th District judge who declared California’s 2008 Proposition 8 unconstitutional, confirmed, for the first time, that he indeed is gay. He also made it clear in his announcement that his sexuality was irrelevant to his decision in the case. Proposition 8, which was voted in by a narrow margin by California voters in November 2008, made same-sex marriage in California illegal. It did, however, continue to honor couples who were married prior to the vote. In August 2010, Walker ruled Proposition 8 violated the civil rights of same-sex couples. During the 12-day trial, rumors had surfaced that Walker was gay. Speaking for the first time about the case since retiring from the bench in February, former Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker said he never considered recusing himself from deciding the constitutionality of Proposition 8 because of his sexual orientation, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. “If you thought a judge’s sexuality, ethnicity, national origin (or) gender would prevent the judge from handling a case, that’s a very slippery slope,” Walker told reporters. “I don't think it’s relevant.” Walker was a former corporate lawyer who was appointed to the federal bench by Republican President George H.W. Continues on NEWS on Page 9
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Bush and gained a reputation during his 21-year judicial career for his libertarian leanings. Since leaving the court, the 67-year-old has returned to private law practice, specializing mediation and arbitration.H
through Facebook posts and a blog critical of Armstrong claiming Armstrong had a “radical homosexual agenda.” Shirvell was fired by the state in December after being accused of harassing Armstrong. H
Military Chiefs Say DADT Repeal on Target ARLINGTON, VA – The chiefs of the Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps said that they are moving along on schedule with the full repeal of the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”; however, no one was specific as to what the target date is. In prepared testimony, the leaders of the armed services said the training of the rank and file is under way and they are working to ensure compliance with the new law. President Barack Obama signed the law last year repealing the 17-year ban. Training and certification by the Defense Department are required before the ban is lifted. H
AR Court Drops Gay Adoption Ban LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Supreme Court rejected a voterapproved measure that barred gay couples and other unmarried people living together from serving as adoptive parents. It was the opinion of the court that the law encroached on adults’ right to privacy in the bedroom. “Act 1 directly and substantially burdens the privacy rights of ‘opposite-sex and same-sex individuals’ who engage in private, consensual sexual conduct in the bedroom by foreclosing their eligibility to foster or adopt children,” wrote the court. Voters approved the measure in 2008 after the state Supreme Court overturned a Human Services Department policy preventing gay men and lesbians from serving as foster parents in 2006. The American Civil Liberties Union sued on behalf of a group of families, arguing the law arbitrarily bans qualified families from consideration when the state has too few foster and adoptive families. It said it knew of 29 people from a dozen families who claimed the law would have an impact on them. H
Gay Student Sues Ex-Michigan Official ANN ARBOR, MI – The Detroit Free Press reported that University of Michigan student Chris Armstrong has filed a suit against the state’s former Assistant State Attorney General Andrew Shirvell. The suit was filed in the Washtenaw, Michigan, County Circuit Court. The suit accuses Shirvell of stalking the openly gay student assembly president, causing Armstrong great emotional stress. Armstrong is asking for more than $25,000 in damages. The suit claims that Shirvell displayed a “bizarre personal obsession” with Armstrong
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IGLTA: Countdown to Convention
Anticipation, Expectations Build in Run Up to Delegates Arrival for Summit Part Two of a Six-Part Series By CLIFF DUNN
Joe Solmonese, HRC President Photo courtesy, Human Rights Campaign
HRC Blasts GOP Website WASHINGTON, D.C. – Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign, sent a letter to Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus questioning a new RNC website that demonizes progress toward LGBT equality. The website, “Hope Isn’t Hiring,” directly mentions HRC, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization and a Washington Post article detailing President Obama’s work to eliminate discrimination against the LGBT community. “The Case Against Obama: Social Issues” gave ten points: 1. Despite it being the law of the land, Obama refused to continue to defend the Defense of Marriage Act in court. 2. Obama repealed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” while the U.S. troops are still on the battlefield. 3. Despite Obama’s misleading rhetoric, ObamaCare will provide federal funding for abortions. 4. Obama rescinded the Conscience Clause, exposing doctors and nurses to discrimination. 5. Obama has repeatedly nominated liberal extremists to the federal bench. 6. Obama opposed California’s Prop 8 and has expanded government recognition of same-sex couples. 7. Obama ordered Federal tax dollars to support embryonic stem cell research until a Federal judge intervened. 8. Obama supports Planned Parenthood and its Federal funding of abortions. 9. Obama is against school choice and giving parents control over their children’s education. 10. Many Americans no longer feel that the President shares their values. “From the way in which certain issues are detailed, reasonable people would conclude that the RNC believes in discrimination against LGBT people,” wrote Solmonese. “You [the RNC] sensationalize issues like hospital visitation rights for loving families and ending housing discrimination when the truth is Americans agree that these are the right things to do.” H
As part of its ongoing efforts to promote gay-owned businesses in Broward County, the Rainbow Business Coalition (RBC) of Greater Fort Lauderdale is partnering with the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) to welcome the delegates for the latter organization’s 28th Annual International Convention – dubbed “Lauderdale Unleashed” – which kicks off on Tuesday, May 10, and continues through Sunday, May 15. The RBC has planned several activities and events for the delegates, along with a Welcome Guide, which includes maps of Broward County and Greater Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, information and facts about South Florida’s “gay history,” a directory of RBC members and a personalized ID card which doubles as a luggage tag. Several days of educational seminars and classes will culminate in a Friday evening Consumer Expo and Trade Show in Wilton Manors (and a post-expo concert featuring entertainer Christine W headlining and some other performers, to be announced). Organizers believe a key to the success of the week’s events will be interaction between the local gay community and the delegates from more than 80 countries who will be in attendance. Greg Hardy, Vice President at Solutions Insurance Services in Oakland Park and an RBC board member, says that after all is planned and made ready, getting locals – individuals and businesses alike excited and involved will be job one. “Our number one goal,” says Hardy, “is for the IGLTA delegates to feel welcomed to our great city.” On the business side, “we’d like to see the local tourism businesses register for the convention to network with our global attendees,” notes John Tanzella, President and CEO of the IGLTA. “We hope that [the community-at-large] will extend a warm welcome.” He says that the Friday night Consumer Expo and Trade Show, which starts at 6 p.m., “was specifically created to support and interact with the local community, and the RBC has been instrumental in building a wonderful evening of free entertainment.” Business and community leaders alike know that these activities will provide the framework for what they hope will be a community-wide effort to make the delegates feel at home. “In the long term, the delegates’ opinions and reactions to our destination and our people will surely determine our future,” offers Jennifer Morales,
who serves as the RBC’s secretary and is also the Director of Marketing for Sidelines Sports Bar, which is co-owned by her partner, Laurie Whittaker. “Whether it’s a year from now, five years or even ten years from today, these delegates have the power to ensure that our city flourishes and grows to be the number one LGBT tourism destination,” she adds. Tanzella says that IGLTA is grateful for the opportunity to meet, socialize, and play under the sunny South Florida skies. He notes, too, that his organization makes an effort to reciprocate to its host cities. “We always give back to a local charity,” says Tanzella. “This year we’re presenting a donation to Father Bill Collins and The Poverello Center at our gala dinner and party on May 14.” The gala is another way for locals to mix with the visitors, with tickets available for purchase by non-attendees.
Of the convention and its effects, Chris Dunham, President of Fort Lauderdale-based Dunham Insurance Services, has his eye on the long view. “This is like dropping a pebble into the water,” Dunham offers. “What’s under that stone feels only the first impact. Those ripples go on even beyond your ability to see them. One conventioneer this year comes back with three friends next year, and buys a house off the beach the following year, that’s money in the bank for all kinds of businesses for years come.” “Let’s not screw this up,” he adds sagely. H
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OPEN FOR BUSINESS! By CLIFF DUNN Dough? A Dear! Rising Action Theatre opened its doors in 2006, and Artistic Director and Producer David Goldyn is hopeful that local fans and supporters will open their wallets and check books to support local theater arts. Goldyn and his troupe are holding a fundraiser at The Manor Restaurant and Complex in Wilton Manors, with a theme that will tug at the lederhosen strings of the most jaded karaoke refugee. With actor David Leddick as Maria von Trapp, The Manor will host “The Sound of Music Sing-a-Long,” Friday April 29 and Saturday April 30 at 6:45 p.m. both evenings. Last summer, the restaurant/ lounge/nightclub/coffee bar that Paul and Bret built hosted gay comedienne and singer Lea DeLaria in a fundraiser for Goldyn and Rising Action: tickets then ranged from $39 to $59. This year, a more modest $15 gets you through the door (or bring five paying friends and get in free). Dress in costume as your favorite SoM character and you may win a prize (although Open for Business has concerns about the possibility of a Brown Shirt und Storm Trooper contingent strolling in from one of the local Levis-and-Leather bars – or worse, someone from NAMBLA sneaking in and belting out a chorus of “You Are Sixteen, Going On Seventeen”). Stay tuned.
Just What the Doctor Ordered For the third year in a row, Dr. J. Michael Heider of Ultimate Smile Dental Center is the recipient of the U.S. Commerce Association’s (USCA) 2011 Best of Fort Lauderdale Award in the Dentists' Office category. According to the Association, only 1-in120 – less than 1% – of its 2011 Award honorees qualified to be Three-Time Award Winners. The USCA’s "Best of Local Business" Award Program is meant to recognize outstanding local businesses nationwide. The USCA identifies companies each year which have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category, and which enhance the positive image of small businesses through service to their customers and community. Next on their agenda: making people actually want to go to the dentist.
The Thais That Bind Us Concerned about a hypothetical shortage of Far Eastern restaurants in the gayborhood and surrounding environs, Wilton Manors recently welcomed Tee Jay Thai Sushi to its pantheon of Thai eateries. The list (which is by no means exhaustive, and is not counting the literally dozens of Thai joints south of Sunrise, west of I-95, and north of
Cliff Dunn Commercial) includes Siam Cuisine, Thai Bayshore, Sukhothai, Lemon Grass Asian Bistro, Heart Rock Sushi, and, of course, the venerable Galanga. Without the benefit of hard scientific data or empirical evidence to support or refute the hypothesis, Open for Business turned to the nation’s formerly highest-ranking LGBT elected official, former Broward County Mayor Ken Keechl, to find out if there’s Something About Manao that makes gays Cuckoo for Khao Phat. “Not insofar as I know,” quoth His Honor. “On the other hand, who doesn’t like Thai?” Touché, Mr. Mayor.
Ride, Ride the White Pony From our “Best First Date Idea of the Past Week” Department: This one from corn-fed KC-transplant Johnny (who made such an impression on your Kindly Scribe when we first met that I went through a plate glass window on the night he went back home), who relates that Brandon took him to Georgie’s Alibi this weekend to ride the mechanical bull the establishment had set up outside its main entrance (and, at 47 seconds, the aforementioned Midwesterner holds the record for longest fundament-in-the-saddle time). The novelty bottom-bruiser was set up in honor of the Florida Gay Rodeo Association’s (FGRA) Sunshine Stampede at Davie’s Bergeron Rodeo Arena, so, sadly, you can’t ride the bull on a regular basis – at least not in that way.
Quotable “I pay my bills like a trained @#! ? &% pig.” Local drinking establishment proprietor during recent collections call. If you're Open for Business, you can contact Business Writer and Director of Sales, Cliff Dunn, with your story or press release at Business@Florida Agenda.com.H
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If you're “Open for Business”, you can contact Business Writer and Director of Sales, Cliff Dunn, with your story at Business@FloridaAgenda.com
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Trojan Warfare! Sexual Protection? When a Trojan is Not a Good Thing. Part 2 By JACK HANDY So not long after old Uncle Jack Handy gave you a little anecdotal story about how you ‘might’ get hijacked by a nefarious little Trojan. (Disclaimer: the scenario in Trojan Warfare! Part1 was a totally hypothetical situation, ahem… right?) FreeMyPCNow@gmail.com gets this email from one of our readers in response, and let’s just say he took it up the assuming position not once, but twice! Here is how it went down: “Just finished reading your article in the 03/31 issue of Florida Agenda. Been there! Installed new OS. Wiped drive. New OS means I had to change from XP Pro. To Windows 7. HATE IT! But XP not available anymore. Did I have an option I didn't know about?” Well YEAH! You should have asked for kiss before you got screwed. Not only did you lose a nice chunk of Jack Handy cash to put in a new operating system, but all your valuable downloaded imporntant information was a casualty of your Trojan Warfare experience. Now I am not saying that a lot of these computer chop shops would rather make a good buck off your little ‘soldier’ of mis-
fortune, would they? Probably they just don’t know how to seek and destroy these deep rooted little nasty hijacker viruses (Jack Rubs his Head). Yeah, let’s go with that. The even scarier part of reinstalling your whole OS (operating system) is that these Trojan’s are running ramped across websites, social media sites, and bit-torrents. This means a new OS does nothing to protect you from getting hijacked again! So what’s the good news? Well two things, first I am going to tell you DO NOT reinstall your OS. There is a Jack Handy system and process to free your PC from these nasty little Trojans and I am going to give you the basics right now. Second if this doesn’t work for you, well old Uncle Jack has got your back and for only $37 for Florida Agenda readers, not only will I FreeYourPCNow, but I will give you advanced instruction and tools to keep you protected. Let’s start with the basics go to the following link: http://bit.ly/FreeMyPCNow There you will find the download links (at the bottom of the article) to the following tools you will need to do a
Basic Handy Job: 1) Rkill.exe – This tool will scan your root directory where the Trojan is hiding, and put ‘Handcuffs’ on the hijacker so you it cannot block the startup of the next Handy Tool. 2) Malwarebytes – Download and install. Update definitions if prompted. Run ’Perform quick scan’ with this tool to find the ‘Handcuffed Hijacker’. When scan is complete click show results and you will see your Trojan and eliminate it. 3) A) Microsoft Security Essentials – Did you know that if you are running a legal copy of Windows XP, Vista, or 7 you have FREE access to Microsoft’s Security Essential virus protection? So go to the download page and install MSE, if your copy of Windows is not legit, MSE they will let you know and you will not be able to install. (In this case go to 3B and install the free version of Avast). B) Avast – If you cannot install MSE, download and install the free version of Avast. This one actually talks to you, so maybe you won’t feel so lonely. Um.. no it does not talk dirty… get your mind out of the gutter that is what got you here in the
first place Jack! 4) Run a quick system scan with MSE or Avast, and you will be surprised how many other funky little critters are hiding in your machine and Killem! 5) Reboot and run full system scan with Malwarebytes and MSE (or Avast) (1-2 hours with each) Eliminate any threats. 6) Reboot, and if you find yourself in trouble again, well, ‘rinse and repeat’ so to speak. If rkill.exe does not run then and you need an Advanced Handy Job then it is time to call Jack! Send an email to FreeMyPCNow@gmail.com and quickly and effectively remove that nasty Trojan from the bowels of your PC. Guaranteed! FreeMyPCNow offers a $37 Florida Agenda Special! 100% Removal and 60Day Free Checkup! Guarantee. Now that’s handy, Jack! H
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In and Proud As Miami Pride approaches, we are all feeling festively proud again, a lot of the attitude of pride is clear; to be proud you are surely ‘out’. Sure we see many guys on the floats, in the parade and parading around demonstrating it is safe to be out, and that they are out loud and proud. Showing those who are afraid, that there is a fun exciting and fabulous time to be had if you are out and proud. The question is do you have to be out to be proud? I say no. Remember all the frivolity you see at Pride celebrations and even in the bars are not representations of the entirety of living your life “out”. One day out of the year (in South Florida granted it’s considerably more than one day with the range of pride celebrations) is great, but what happens the day after? There is still a huge class of homophobia and the ‘safety of the community’ is more often than not as encompassing as it’s made out to be. Don’t get me wrong, with amazing places like the Pride Center , that do offer fantastic resources for those struggling with the decision of coming out, a range counselling and support groups exist to help ease those troubled by the reaction of their friends and family. I, however, am going to say it. There are many situations where coming out is not a good idea. I also don’t think your unwillingness to shout your sexuality from the rooftops demonstrates a lack of pride, but more an increased sensitivity to those you know. Many people will argue; you can’t truly live your life honestly until you tell people you are gay. Well, straight people don’t HAVE to announce they are straight to be themselves, it’s just a given, and if the base of all gay rights is to be believed and we expect to have equal rights, the right to privacy over our sexuality is surely one of them? Many people go into coming out expecting the earth and are disappointed, or worse devastated. The messages that the community relies on often times fall short of reality. It is not necessarily better to be out. You could still go to bars, fool around even fall in love without having to make
the big grand announcement. It is up to you and only you. Hearing people suggest, or worse, bully you into believing because you haven’t come out you must be ashamed, is unfair and wrong. You know your friends and family best so you can decide and weigh up the fall out. If you want to come out for you then do it. If you are doing it for someone else, or worse
Alex Vaughn because you feel pressured by your peers, take note that you won’t be any more proud and if it unfortunately doesn’t go to plan you could end up in a situation of deep resentment. If and when you do come out, you can’t expect your life to be a big happy gay parade, there will be people who don’t accept you, you may lose friends or family as a result. In my opinion, it’s not always the right thing to do. Just look at the news; politicians and celebrities are always being “outed”, or coming out because they have been caught out in a bathroom or a park. The negativity surrounding it because they are married and or are fathers is swiftly and neatly cleaned up by
Letters to the Editor DEAR EDITOR, Objectively, the argument against rodeos wins! The animals that are forced to participate in these events are denied what is natural to them and forced into situations that they would avoid at all costs. The animals involved, as Holly Wilson stated, are not willing participant. Many of the activities involved with the rodeo entail the animal running for its life, petrified, while spectators complicity add to the fear by cheering and applauding. Jim Mitchell’s argument that the chutes are in excellent condition and that the animals are well fed is appalling. Prisons are also in great condition and the inmates are well fed, but those conditions are not conducive to a life well lived. Have these animals committed a crime by being different? Rodeos are, plain and simply, a public display of humans trying to convince the world
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a big announcement that they have to admit to the nation ‘who they truly are’. Then a year or so of gay rights campaigning and bingo – no issue, as far as we are concerned they are out proud and happy. However what about the wife? We don’t see her on TV claiming she is so glad he came out, and is truly himself. I have heard many stories as I am sure you all have, where actually the man in question, the wife and the kids all wished he hadn’t come out and that the stigma wasn’t there. It’s a selfish act that won’t always bring happiness. If you are married or ‘on the down low’ take note of what you have and weigh up whether the big announcement is worth the potential cost. If you do decide to go ahead, do it with as open a mind as you expect people to have. Don’t demand acceptance, don’t demand understanding, quite simply don’t demand anything. Offer time and space for those close to you to process. Remember they might be shocked or confused so give them some leeway. I watched an interview with Portia De Rossi on Oprah the other day and she said her mother said she loved her and accepted her, but didn’t think she should tell people because they may not understand. She also said that she wished it was different but accepted her none the less. Portia said on national TV that her answer proved she was ashamed and that hers , and any parents answer to a child coming out should be ‘who cares’. I felt this was incredibly unfair, her mother told her she loved her and accepted her. That should be enough. Be proud in Miami or wherever you are not just for pride, but always for who you are. Remember telling everyone who you sleep with or who you love is not a measure of your pride or self-worth, it is your privacy and if you chose to share it then do so. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.
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Alex Vaugn is the Editor-in-Chief of the Florida Agenda. He can be reached at editor@FloridaAgenda.com
Please send all your comments and letters to editor@FloridaAgenda.com
that they are superior to the animals involved. To the evolved individual, it is an archaic and small minded display of decriminalized animal abuse. To the rhetoric that rodeos are still allowed because no animal welfare laws are broken, one needs to take a closer look at the record of enforcing animal welfare laws. Crimes against animals are often times not prosecuted. Animal welfare laws do not include all animals and the laws are different for different species. These laws are reflections of discrimination based upon being different. Does this sound familiar? Rodeos continue because they have traditionally been acceptable forms of entertainment. In recent years we have evolved quite rapidly. We have expanded our ideas of mercy and compassion. We have accepted the idea that we are not the world, but a part of the world. We are aware that our planet is not
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just ours, but theirs as well. Don’t you think it is time we take a look at all of the things we have traditionally accepted and review them from a fresh set of eyes? We are responsible for leading the way for change. Imagine the leaps and bounds we would make if we set examples of kindness and compassion in all areas of our lives. As homosexuals, we know what it is liked to be viewed as less than and persecuted for our differences. Together, and with the help of other kind and compassionate individuals, we have made great strides in our cause. Don’t you think it is time to pay it forward and extend our helping hand to those who do not have a voice? They (animals) are just like us, only different. I, for one, will never patronize a rodeo event or any other event that involves animals used for entertainment purposes. MICHAEL ESSI
PUBLISHER KEVIN HOPPER
EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief ALEX VAUGHN News Editor BOB KESCKEMETY Proof Editor BOB YOUNG Contributers: KEVIN MILLER, ARLEN KEITH LIGHT, WAYMON HUDSON, TOM BONANTI, SAM KNEW, MICHAEL FRENCH, TIM SLIVINKI, PAUL RUBIO, WARREN DAY, JACK HANDY, CHARLES ROBBINS Photographer STEPHEN R. LANG
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DISPLAY AD DEADLINES: Placement by Fridays, 5 p.m. Camera Ready Artwork by Mondays, Noon CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINES: Placement by Mondays, 5 p.m. Artwork by Mondays, Noon ALL MATERIAL in the Florida Agenda is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the Florida Agenda. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers and cartoonists published herein is neither inferred or implied. The appearance of names or pictorial representation does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of that person or persons. Although this paper is supported by many fine advertisers, the Agenda cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers. EDITORIAL POSITIONS of the Florida Agenda are expressed in editorials and in editors’ notes as determined by the paper’s editors. Other opinions are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Florida Agenda or its staff. TO SUBMIT A LETTER OR COMMENTARY: Letters should be fewer than 400 words; commentaries should be fewer than 750 words. Submissions may be edited for content and length, and must include a name, address and phone number for verification. Send submissions by e-mail to Editor@floridaagenda.com by fax to 954566-7900 or by regular mail to the Agenda office, attn: Letters/Commentary.
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Who Knew? By SAM KNEW, MSW
Sex Toys – Why It’s Okay To Be A Little Selfish Share and share alike may be a good philosophy in general, but when it comes to the bedroom it may benefit you to be a little selfish with your toys. The rate of transmission for sexually transmitted infections (STI) with the use of sex toys varies, and there are numerous contributing factors – but without question – you are at risk. Depending on how sex toys are used, they come into contact with bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal secretions, blood and feces. Each of these carries its own risk of transmitting STIs and other types of infections. Even if your sex toy party is a party of one, you run similar risks. Using the same toy from one orifice to the other without proper sanitation can lead to numerous types of self-inflicted infections. Hepatitis A is an infection one can contract when using a sexual toy that is contaminated with fecal matter, even if it’s the users own fecal matter. One option to reducing your risk is choosing the right sex toy. The Coalition
Against Toxic Toys (CATT) suggests, “Sex toys should be non-porous. Examples of safe, non-porous materials include: high-quality silicone, glass, surgical steel, ceramic and medical grade plastics.” These types of toys are also easier to clean and less likely to trap bacteria. There has been an increasing trend to avoid toys made of phthalates (FAY-lates), also known as jelly rubber, a chemical used to make plastics. Phthalate chemicals are used today in perfumes, hair sprays, plastic raincoats, nail polish, carpets, furniture and medical devices. They are even responsible for that “new car smell” MSNBC recently reported. The main concern with phthalates products is the lack of regulations – and in high concentration it can be toxic. Studies also report linking phthalates to infertility and other reproductive problems, cancer and liver and kidney damage. In addition, keeping your toys clean is critical. Toys made of more porous materials may be harder to keep clean, and
allow bacteria to be trapped and transmitted. These types of types of toys are also more vulnerable when cleaned improperly. Some studies have concluded that using harsh cleaning chemicals and excessive heat, as found when one uses a dishwasher to clean his/her toys, can compromise the protective layers of some toys. Condoms are also widely recommended when using sex toys. An advantage to using condoms is fast, easier clean up. Especially during sex, they allow partners to safely share sex toys. Maintaining your toys is also just as important. Allowing them to dry completely, storing away from direct sunlight
and following any suggested maintenance by the manufacturer. This includes using the proper lubricants, so not to damage your toys – or your health.
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Sam Knew, MSW is an educator and a local counselor. He can be reached at samknewmsw@gmail.com
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Home /Travel / Fitness / Interview Profile / Fashion / Recipe / Theatre THE STYLE VOICE OF THE LGBT COMMUNITY
Inside this issue...
Coastal Delight!
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n this issue, enjoy our candid interview with this year’s Miami Beach Pride Grand Marshall, Andy Cohen; read our striking review of the fascinating Mormon Boy Trilogy; get to know the man who makes vacant homes saleable, Robert MacKilligan of Florida Stage Hands; delight in Redondo Beach, California’s relatively unknown coastal delight; and force out repetitions in Fitness. Also, enjoy this week’s Recipe, Home, Out in Florida and up the style stakes with our Miami Style feature.H – AV
Travel PAGE 31
Forced Reps.
Miami’s High Fashion Look!
Training Partners Can Help!
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Redondo Beach, California
Fitness PAGE 26
Fashion PAGE 27
Andy Cohen q
Interview with Miami Beach Gay Pride’s Grand Marshall
Interview PAGE 20 Photos courtesy, BravoTV.com, StayFitZone, GoodApartment.com, Gucci
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A Round of Applause – Bravo! Andy Cohen Leads Miami Beach Gay Pride If you are addicted to scandalous, inyour-face reality television, then you must absolutely love this man. Bravo’s Andy Cohen, host of Watch What Happens, will lead this year’s Miami Beach Gay Pride Parade beginning at noon on Saturday, April 16th, at 5th Street and Ocean Drive. With a slew of hit shows such as the Real Housewives franchise, Top Chef and Project Runway under his belt, Cohen and his network have amassed an extremely broad, loyal fan base. He recently spoke with Mark’s List about his role in Miami Beach Gay Pride, his job at Bravo and what he thinks keeps viewers tuning in every week. You will be in Miami Beach very soon. What kind of message do you want to send as the Grand Marshal of Miami Beach Gay Pride and what does pride mean to you? I love Miami and I love South Beach, and April is always a fun time to be in Miami. I think Miami was built for pride, and I’m very excited to be a part of the event. To me, pride means being exactly who you are and walking tall in your shoes and not compromising who you are in order make someone else happy. I want to show everyone how far
By TROY MAILLIS
we have come as a community. You get to work with many aggressive and interesting personalities on the shows on Bravo. What is your favorite part about your job? Wow — too many to count. Mainly it’s talking to people and getting to them and having fun with them. Being on Watch What Happens, I don’t even think of that as a job. My Mom came to the show with me recently and when we left I said, “Can you believe this is even considered work?” It’s just fun. And at the same time, what is your least favorite part? I hate negotiating contracts. It gets very personal and sensitive sometimes. Why do you think the shows on Bravo have become so popular? Do you think that there is a right or wrong formula for making good television? I think they are popular because of the characters. We have amazing people doing amazing things. The shows are really fun and addictive. I think Bravo has a very specific vibe and way that we present humor. We also have a very sophisticated, smart audience, and I
think they connect with our characters. The lifestyles that are being portrayed are very interesting and something to aspire to be. Were there any shows that were surprise hits on Bravo? The Real Housewives! It was something we all thought could be interesting, but not really sure if people would catch on. You never know what’s going to resonate. Also, Top Chef. I didn’t expect either of the shows to become as big as they did, and we are very proud of them. What do you think about the use of pop culture to fight prejudice and homophobia? I think it’s great. There were not a lot of gay role models on television when I was growing up. I’m really proud that there are kids around the country who see gay people on Bravo as talented, creative people with strength, courage and pride in themselves. We show a world where gay people are thriving alongside straight people. The kids across the world who see this will feel differently in their communities. I think it’s very positive.
Photo courtesy of Social Life
What other shows or networks out there have done a good job at making the same statement? I think The Real World on MTV was very revolutionary for its time. I remember watching Season One and there was a gay character in that cast, and they have had one in almost every season. I can’t understate what that show did as a groundbreaking show. It really was at the forefront of representing gay people at a time when it wasn’t really happening anywhere else on TV. H
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The World Is A Stage By ALEX VAUGHN Robert Geary MacKilligan is a successful Realtor® and the owner of Florida Stage Hands, a home staging company based in Wilton Manors. His showroom-come-retail store is a veritable Aladdin’s cave of treasure. Striking lamps, tables and armoires are just the tip of the furniture iceberg available at the perfect price. When and how did you come up with the concept of staging homes? Just over 3-1/2 years ago I decided to create "Florida Stage Hands". This was in response to the sluggish real estate market. I have been a Realtor® for 12 years with Galleria International Realty on Las Olas. The venture of staging a home gave an "Edge" to all of the other listed homes that were empty. The facts state that staged homes sell 46-50% faster than vacant homes. How was your first job? The first staging job involved a luxury condo building on Fort Lauderdale Beach called "Las Olas Beach Club". The excitement built inside of me as I viewed the empty space; the condo had been vacant and on the market for almost two months, without any offers. Now it was time to shop for the best product at the best value. My partner is an artist, so I knew that his art would enhance the condo. My resources for the furniture were completed and the magic for staging was done! Within 26 days, the condo was sold! Wow, so how quickly do you sell a property as a result of staging? Florida Stage Hands’ average time to sell is currently 37 days. Tell our readers more about the concept. Well, Florida Stage Hands caters to the seller as well as the buyer. People live in their homes for years at a time and do not realize how a presentation of a home is extremely important to the buyer. Therefore, the larger spaces become cluttered and smaller spaces become dif-
ficult to understand. By taking a fresh look, we optimize the homes’ potential. Highlighting the important features, but cleverly eliminating undesirable aspects of the home. What prompted you to create a retail store and why did you choose Wilton Manors? Initially, the reason for the retail store was because of issues with warehousing of the furniture. As the company grew, so did our warehouse space. Due to the fact that furniture styles change within the industry, I made the decision to start warehouse sales out of our Oakland Park location. Why wouldn't the consumer want new and high quality current styles of furniture at a fraction of the price? As the lease of our warehouse in Oakland Park was coming to an end, it seemed like the perfect time to take the next step and create a highly viable and visible retail showroom for the staging company. My search ended when I found our present location in Wilton Manors in the Seafood Restaurant Plaza, where most of the shops had been for over 20 years. It was perfect! I chose Wilton Manors because of the atmosphere! What are the advantages of being within the gay community? The atmosphere within the gay community lends itself to the retail showroom. Our community has the gift of style and completely understands space and, of course, value. What do you feel is lacking within the gay community? One of my wishes is that our community could be more united in business. Networking is so important and the gay community is very powerful in that respect. If we worked closer together, it could only be a good thing. The area of Wilton Manors would only benefit from a tighter network. How do you contribute to bettering the community? Our plan to help jump start the idea of
Robert G. MacKilligan, President, with his staff, Eric, Glen and Karen, at Florida Stage Hands bringing unity back to the gay community is to have quarterly fundraisers at our retail location for many of the local charities and some of the national not-forprofit organizations. What other services do you offer at the store? We invite people to come in and enjoy the store. In addition to offering acces-
sories for you home at a fraction of the retail price and creating perfect homes to sell, we also offer a collectible consignment service. H Florida Stage Hands 1438 NE 38th Street (At the Old Florida Seafood House restaurant plaza) (954) 530-6155 • Open 7 days a week
How Many LGBT People Are There? LOS ANGELES, CA –The Williams Institute, a leading think tank dedicated to the field of sexual orientation and gender identity-related law and public policy, released new research that estimates the size of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community in the United States. Drawing on information from four recent national and two state-level population-based surveys, the analyses suggest that there are more than 8 million adults in the U.S. who are lesbian, gay, or bisexual, comprising 3.5% of the adult population. There are also nearly 700,000 transgender individuals in the U.S. In total, the study suggests approximately 9 million Americans, roughly the population of New Jersey,
identify as LGBT. Noted study author Dr. Gary J. Gates: “The Institute of Medicine at the National Academies released an analysis of LGBT health research calling for federal statistical agencies to quickly move toward LGBT inclusion in their data collection. The surveys highlighted in this report demonstrate the usefulness of sexual orientation and gender identity questions on large-scale national population-based surveys. Better data can provide the building blocks for critical information to understand the lives of the 9 million LGBT Americans who have been historically marginalized in both society and research.” Some other findings from the study:
• Among adults who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual, bisexuals comprise a slight majority (1.8% compared to 1.7% who identify as lesbian or gay). • Women are substantially more likely than men to identify as bisexual. • Estimates of those who report any lifetime same-sex sexual behavior and any same-sex sexual attraction are substantially higher than estimates of those who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual. An estimated 19 million Americans (8.2%) report they have engaged in same-sex sexual behavior and nearly 25.6 million Americans (11%) acknowledge at least some samesex sexual attraction.H Photo courtesy of mlive.com
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Forced Repetitions to Maximize Muscles
Training Partners Can Help! By TOM BONANTI Two heads are better than one. And four hands are better than two. That’s the logic behind forced repetitions. You are used to working out hard on your own. With the right training partner you can do even more. Mentally, you can psych each other up to reach new heights of size and strength. Physically, you keep each other safe as you lift heavier weights. Simple spotting is more for safety than anything else. Probably the best partner training strategy is forced repetitions. This technique is based on the principle that when you lift weights, the final few repetitions are the most beneficial because you must summon all your energy to pump those already tired muscles. While one guy lifts the weights, the partner places his hands in position to help him crank out one or two more reps he couldn’t have completed on his own. If you’ve got a trainer or workout buddy you can count on, try these forced repetition exercises a few times a month. Don’t overdo it or you’ll over train and burn out. Barbell squats are perhaps the best
overall weight training exercise for all muscle groups of the body, especially lower body, glutes, quads and hamstrings. Grasp a barbell across your upper back with feet shoulder width apart. Lower until your thighs are almost parallel to the floor, pause, and then rise to starting position. At the end of a set of, say 10 reps, have your partner stand behind you with his hands around your torso as he helps you to do 2 more reps. When performing heavy barbell bench presses it is always advisable to have a spotter. To perform forced reps, lie face up on the bench and, grasp a barbell with arms bent at 90 degree angles. Press it overhead, pause, and then return it to starting position. At the end of the set, have your partner stand over you as he helps you raise and lower the bar for a couple more reps. Partial barbell curls will build those
biceps peaks. Grasp an EZ curl bar with arms bent at 90 degree angles. Curl it up until biceps meet forearms, pause, then lower to starting position. As you conclude the set, have your partner face you and help you raise and lower the bar for those last 2 decisive reps. Triceps skull crushers sound evil. They are. Lie face up on a bench, grasp an EZ curl bar at arm’s length over the chest. Lower it to just above the forehead, pause, thenand then, return to starting position. At the end of your set, have your partner help you to squeeze out those two 2 extra reps that will have those triceps burning for sure. Pull ups are great for widening the upper back to achieve the “V” shape torso that is so attractive on any guy. Grasp a secure overhead bar and pull yourself up so that your chin is even with your hands, pause, then lower in a
“Triceps skull crushers sound evil. They are.”
Photo courtesy of imgAcademies
controlled manner. At the end of the set have your partner grasp your feet and ankles to help you do one or two forced repetitions. Forced repetitions can be implemented into any weight training regime and used with any exercise. Just be sure that you have a reliable, attentive partner. Don’t do forced repetitions more than a couple of times every month. That way you’ll get the increased size and strength you want without the perils of overtraining. H
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Tom Bonanti, is a certified personal trainer and owner of Pump’n Inc gym at 1271 NE 9th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, Facebook: TrainerTomB. www.pumpnincgym.com
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Miami Style Miami’s High Style Appeal
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Blue Paisley Etro shirt $240 www.etro.com
By ALEX VAUGHN & ERIC CHRISTIAN As Pride comes to Miami Beach we will all be ready to see those muscle hotties in tiny bathers and very little else. If you are spending the weekend in Miami, however, remember it is one of the most stylish cities in the world. Miami used to be the last stop for the grannies of the world. Not for a long time have you seen a blue hair parading down Ocean Drive or Lincoln Road. No, Miami is a serious competitor in the global style stakes. To really get into the Miami vibe, you have choices; uber trendy day casual, swim wear or flashy evening with cool accessories. To really make Miami style work, borAbercrombie & Fitch green row from the 70’s and 80’s with silk mountain board shorts $50 www.abercrombie.com shirts and linen blazers (sleeves rolled up of course) and for the day, dare to be bear with your swimwear and accessories. Hats are a must and remember: A simple scarf turns a plain suit into effortless chic. H
Diesel Safado jeans $160 www.diesel.com
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Polo Ralph Lauren Stanton shirt $125 www.ralphlauren.com
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White Linen Pants $200 www.vilebrequin.com Banana Republic Malibu Sandals $79 www.bananarepublic.com
Gucci jersey printed shirt $995 Skinny jean with stay press $570 www.gucci.com
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Banana Republic Vincent Fedora $45 www.bananarepublic.com
Yves Saint Laurent cuban heel boots $795 www.mrporter.com
Luis Morais Big Skull Bracelet $1151 www.gift-library.com
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Tom Ford Charles Aviator sunglasses $340 www.hisunglasses.com
Ray Ban RB2140 black $145 www.solsticesunglasses.com
Eric Christian is a style consultant. Eric@styleconciergemiami.com www.styleconciergemiami.com
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A.P.C cotton two button blazer $415 www.mrporter.com
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It’s My Party! By MICHAEL FRENCH
How many of us recall Leslie Gore’s mid sixties classic song “It’s My Party”? Ms. Gore hails from my home turf of North New Jersey and is an “Out and Proud” member of the Gay Community! In the song, Ms. Gore tells her audience, “It’s my party and I’ll cry if I want to.” She’s declaring the party IS hers to do as she wants and how she wants to do it. She isn’t worried about how anyone else envisions her party. After all, the party really is HERS! The summer party season, with Memorial Day and July 4th festivities
jean’s kitchen
front and center, will be here before we know it! The point I’m making is when you’re having a party, don’t lose track of whose party it is. First and foremost the party is yours! It’s a wonderfully thoughtful host who puts their guests’ enjoyment, wants, needs and comfort before his own. Always remember though, since it’s your party, the ultimate barometer of success is whether after all your hard work, you’ve enjoyed the party at least as much as your guests! Don’t drive yourself crazy catering to people who have such fussy appetites they should be hooked up to an “IV”! Too often, many of us get so bogged down in the mechanics of the event, and making sure everyone is having a great time, that we forget our own good time! Has that ever happened to you? It’s supposed to be lots of memorable fun for us hosts too! So, just by delegating a few important facets of the party, ensuring your own good time becomes reality. Hire a bartender, at least two servers, and a cleanup person. If you or one of your guests has friends in the restaurant business, see if they know someone who wants to earn some extra money – it’s less expensive than hiring a service. Meet with them a few days before and
Marinara Sauce
The name marinara comes from the Italian word "marinaro," which means "seafaring" or "sailor”. This simple red sauce was first made for 16th century Italian sailors in Naples upon their return from a voyage at sea. Recipes vary, but a basic marinara sauce is made of tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, basil, salt and pepper. While other pasta sauces contain meats like ground beef or sausage, marinara sauce does not. • 2 cans stewed tomatoes • 1 can tomato paste or sauce (no additives) • 2 cloves of garlic, minced • 1 teaspoon dried oregano, or you can use fresh thyme or herbs de Provence. (You are the chef) • 1 bay leaf • 1 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper • 6 tablespoons olive oil • 1 big finely diced onion • 1/2 cup white wine • 1 dash of hot sauce such as Tabasco In a large saucepan, heat the oil over a medium-high flame. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until the onions are
translucent, about 10 minutes. Add the tomatoes, herbs and bay leaf, and all the other ingredients and simmer uncovered over low heat until the sauce thickens, about 1 hour. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Season the sauce with salt and pepper, to taste. The sauce can be made 1 day ahead. Cool, then cover and refrigerate. I always make a big batch and freeze it in small quantities. H
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Jean Doherty is the Chef and Owner of Le Patio Restaurant in Wilton Manors (954) 530-4641
hand out an outline of what their roles will be. Ask them to arrive at least an hour before the party starts. Make a diagram of how you would like the food to be displayed and served. Get some friends to help decorate, arrange tables, etc., the day before your event. Be your own DJ and create an eclectic music collection with an iPod way ahead of time. Hand out a couple of disposable digital cameras to a few guests. (Just make sure you can depend on them to take the photos!) As always, good communication is paramount in the formula for success. Of course, with just a little research on the web there can be found incredible, and often simple, inexpensive ideas of how to throw a successful, memorable party and one that helps guarantee a good time for all, including the host! Now, that’s a novel idea! Having delegated the most important facets of the party to the bartender,
servers, a cleanup person, and the electronic DJ, you can really relax (well, almost) mingling, and having a wonderful time being with your guests! When the last guest has kissed you good-bye, all the dishes are put away, the candles blown out, music turned off and Fido can’t find anything to scavenge, you will be overflowing with great memories of your party as you climb into bed, grinning from ear to ear, finally resting your head on the pillow. Someone who could not attend your event will invariably phone and ask, “So how was the party?” Reflecting on the party’s seamless flow, without a moment’s hesitation or ounce of doubt in your voice, all the inquisitive caller will hear from you is a resounding “Great!, I had a wonderful time! I can’t wait to do it again!” H
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Michael French, is Agenda’s Home from Home columnist. Contact Michael at mf7954fla@gmail.com
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A Californian Coastal Delight! Redondo Beach, California
The waterfalls on the Trump National Golf Course
By PAUL RUBIO On my latest trip to Los Angeles, I decided to end my week in the “City of Angels” by going off the beaten path to remind myself that Los Angeles is indeed a coastal city. I don’t think I am alone in easily forgetting that L.A. borders the ocean. Like most, I definitely fall victim to the flash and fab vortex surrounding the Hollywood Hills and never make it to the see the great wide blue of L.A. Instead of heading to Santa Monica, I journeyed further south to Redondo Beach, a relatively unknown California coastal delight. Redondo is actually a quick, straight shot south from LAX, which makes getting to the airport a hassle-free 20-minute experience, even during rush hour. In addition, this coastal area is a great spot for observing marine mammals. Though Redondo lacks a five star property, the Portofino Hotel & Yacht Club (www.hotelportofino.com, 310.3798481) is the next best thing (and they did recently add five new luxury suites as part of their $11 million dollar makeover). The Portofino is cozy, comfortable, and fits in perfectly with this seaside village and marina. The service is impeccable, the vibe totally relaxed. Half of the rooms face the rocky Pacific waterfront, inhabited by a gregarious colony of wild California sea lions. The hotel’s ocean-inspired lobby is modern and whimsical, continuing the maritime theme of surrounding King Harbor and the gorgeous yachts lining the marina. As in most beach towns, the best part of Redondo Beach is old-fashioned fun in the sun. The Portofino provides complimentary bicycles to cycle along the
beachfront and to enjoy the Strand Bike Path, which runs from Redondo Beach all the way to the Pacific Palisades. If you bike north, you’ll run into the Hermosa and Manhattan beaches, respectively, two of California’s surfing hotspots. If your timing is right, it’s possible to witness the Gray Whale migration. Several fishing boats from the local pier double as whale watching excursions during the migration period. The migration ends now in late April, but will begin once again in December (provided the Japan’s toxic release into the ocean doesn’t kill the whales). Another great outdoor adventure near Redondo is hiking in the Palos Verdes Peninsula and meandering through the majestic tidal pools of Malaga Cove. Hiking rapture can also be achieved on a rugged trail in search of The Dominator. The Dominator was a Greek freighter that crashed on the cliffs of Palos Verdes in 1961. The remains of the Dominator still exist and can be accessed from hiking trails originating on Paseo del Mar. If you are in to golf and want to support the Tea Party Comb-over movement, you can visit the 18 hole, par 71 Trump National Golf Course (www.trumpnationallosangeles.com), which is open to the public. Furthermore, Redondo has a great dining scene. The Portofino’s restaurant, BALEEN Los Angeles (www.hotel portofino.com, 877-BaleenLA), is nationally renowned for its seafood-centric menu and its mesmerizing waterfront views. It attracts sizeable crowds from the greater L.A. area for an evening of seaside escapism. My entrée at
BALEEN, the “Cane SugarSeared Ahi Tuna” with coconut rice, spicy papaya salad and, avocado/wasabi mousse, was nothing short of spectacular. Close by, Casa Pulido is a neighborhood institution that has been run by the Pulido family for years. It's a dive of a Mexican joint, but a must visit stop for a taste of Old Redondo Beach. In terms of nightlife, Redondo Beach doesn't have any, nightlife scene, but Pier Avenue in Hermosa Beach (near the Portifino) has bars ranging from surfer drives to trendy cocktail lounges. For a gay fix, however, you gotta head west back into West Hollywood! H
Photos courtesy of Paul Rubio, cnsm.csulb.edu, Panoramio, goodapartment.com, thedivinedish.com
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Paul Rubio, LGBT Travel writer, has authored numerous articles and an award winning book Out Traveler: South Florida. Paul can be reached at editor@FloridaAgenda.com
BALEEN Los Angeles
The Strand Bike Path
The cliffs of Paseo Del Mar
A room at the Portofino Hotel & Yacht Club in Redondo Beach
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Miami
Fort Lauderdale CARNIVAL DESTINY - FUN FOR ALL, ALL FOR FUN
MISS RICHFIELD 1981 IS HEADING TO MIAMI
4-day Spring LGBT Family Cruise Thursday, Apr. 14, 2011 departing Fort Lauderdale 9 a.m. Your first stop on this cruise is right in downtown Key West on Duval Street then off to Cozumel, Mexico. Rates: $364 to $499/double occupancy. Cruise rates are capacity controlled in U.S. dollars, per guest and based on double occupancy. Government taxes/fees are included. Rates are available on select sailings only. Some restrictions (including stateroom category availability) apply. Rates are subject to change without prior notice. Ships' Registry: The Bahamas and Panama. Carnival reserves the right to re-instate the fuel supplement for all guests at up to $9 per person per day if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70 per barrel. Prestige Travel Agent: Pamela Boston #12658, phone: 615-403-5818. e-mail: pboss40@bellsouth.net. H
Miss Richfield 1981 is coming to Miami for the very first time to officially kickoff Miami Beach Pride with a performance at the Colony Theater on April 15 at 8 p.m. A portion of the tickets and proceeds from a raffle will benefit Miami Beach Pride and GLAAD. Tickets are available at the Colony Theater Box Office or www.missrichfield.com. H
MEN OF RUFF RIDERS LAUNCH PARTY Rosie’s Bar & Grill presents “Men of Ruff Riders,” new works by photographer Dennis Dean. Check out the latest in the Ruff Riders brand collection and meet their hot models! Friday, April 15th, 6 to 9 p.m., during Island City Artwalk. Dennis Dean Galleries (2440-B Wilton Drive, 2nd Floor, Wilton Manors) is across from Rosie's Bar & Grill, entrance upstairs behind New Moon Bar. H
BEAR CODES PRESENTS SPLASH! Saturday, April 30, from 2 to 8 p.m. in Fort Lauderdale at the Royal Palms Resort, 2901 Terramar Street. Monthly pool parties for bears, cubs, chubs, chasers and friends. Join them at the new Royal Palms Resort and Spa for the Official Opening Party of Splash with live deejays and more. The Royal Palms Boutique Hotel offers luxurious rooms, a full bar, a café serving great food and a full service spa and gym. And a clothingoptional heated pool, so come in your swimsuits or your birthday suit! As appreciation for your continued support of Bear Codes, they are extending to those that RSVP for the opening party event only, no cover charge (normal cover is $7). You must RSVP on Facebook to receive the free entry and you can only RSVP yourself. There will be an RSVP list at the door. Help spread the word and invite your friends on the invite link on the event page and give them a chance to RSVP and get the newest hottest pool party grand opening for free. Splash will be held monthly.H
MIAMI BEACH PRIDE On Saturday, April 16, Miami Beach will be more fabulous than ever! Miami Beach City Mayor Matti Bower, your friends, family and allies celebrate the 3rd annual Miami Beach Gay Pride parade and festival. H
URGE Urge with deejays Abel and Paulo, Alex Infiniti and J. Felix. On Saturday April 16th, 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., Score Productions and Hilton Wolman proudly present Urge: The official Saturday night party for Miami Beach Pride. This event will take place at Miami's sumptuous Ice Palace Studios West (71 NW 14 Street, Miami) - formerly known as Karu & Y. Tickets are available at www.showclix.com/event/urgemiami or www.UrgeMiami.com.H
PRIDE NATION Palace Bar presents the annual pride nation t-dance with music by their own D.J. Charlie Rojas (a.k.a. D.J. Charl Mix). Get ready for the best t-dance ever. Miami Beach Gay Pride CD to be released during the dance. Confirm your attendance as soon as possible. Capacity is limited. Presented by Pride Nation, Sunday, Apr. 17, 2011 in Miami from 3 to 6 p.m. Palace Bar and Grill, 1200 Ocean Drive (12th St), Miami Beach, FL 33139.H
NOH8 CAMPAIGN OPEN PHOTO SHOOT IN MIAMI On Sunday, April 17th (3 to 6 p.m.) the NOH8 Campaign will set up our studio at Trio on The Bay (1601 79st Causeway, Miami), opening up the opportunity to join the campaign to all the NOH8 supporters in the South Florida area. In addition to the photo shoot, there will be booths set up at the Miami Beach Gay Pride Parade and Festival. For information visit www.noh8campaign.com.H
MAYHEM Mayhem with Tracy Young and Peter Rauhofer, Miami Beach Gay Pride Weekend, Sunday, Apr. 17 from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. Cameo, 1445 Washington Ave. on South Beach. The official Sunday night sanctioned event for Miami Beach Gay Pride Weekend presented by Ferosh Records. For tickets, www.wantickets.com, general admission $40. H
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LADY GAGA IN TAMPA
THE MONSTER BALL
Lady Gaga and special guests, Scissor Sisters, will be coming to the St. Pete Times Forum on Saturday, April 16th,from 7 to 11 p.m. Lady Gaga has captivated audiences around the globe with her stunning international smash, “The Monster Ball” tour, presented by Virgin Mobile. In 2010, the tour took her throughout Europe and North American, where she received rave reviews everywhere she stopped. With the majority of North American dates already sold out, Lady Gaga has announced she will be extending her North American 2011 tour, now including a stop at Tampa’s St. Pete Times Forum. H
Lady Gaga at the Amway Center, Friday Apr. 15,, 7 to 11:30 p.m., 400 W Church St in Orlando.H
WET LUBE WRESTLING
Monday, Apr 18, 7 to 9:30 p.m., Parliament House, 410 N Orange Blossom Trail in downtown Orlando. This is a citywide event benefiting the Orlando Youth Alliance (OYA), a local charity that provides free of charge, peer-to-peer support groups, education and a positive environment for Orlando's LGBT youth. Hosted by: Darcel Stevens & Michael Wanzie.H
Tampa Bay RULEs, Sunday Apr 17, 1 to 5 p.m., Chelsea Nightclub, 1502 N. Florida Ave. in Tampa. This month’s event is sponsored by WET. So cum get piggy, wear your rubber, jock or hottest leather, but get ready to get some WET wrestlin' on. Bar opens to the general public from 3 p.m. on. Building leathermen/ fetishmen brotherhood and gathering just for fun without egos and attitudes. Get together to socialize, have a cigar or two, experience a demo, bootblacking services and maybe learn about the brotherhood of community bonding. It's a good ole fashioned leather/fetish tea dance with a new twist. Always open to suggestions and ideas to promote, build and excite OUR community! tbrulesz@gmail.com H
DIVERSITY SLAM SPRING FLING Friday, Apr 22, 9 p.m. to 12 midnight, L Train, 900 Central Ave., Saint Petersburg. Open mic night spoken word, acoustic jams. H
PINK POOL PARTY Saturday, April 23 from 1 to 7 pm at the Flamingo Resort, 4601 34 Street in St. Petersburg. Fun in the sun! The Flamingo Resort, Florida’s largest gay resort presents their 2nd annual Pink Party with Billboard Magazine reporting deejay, Bruce Devery (of Detroit and Tampa). Bring your sunscreen and your pink bikinis.
INTERPOL Thursday, Apr 28, from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Ritz Ybor, 1507 East 7th Avenue in Tampa. $24 advance tickets, all ages.H
GAY BOWLING First Thursday of each month from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Dunedin Bowling Lanes, 405 Patricia Avenue in Dunedin. For more information, call (727) 736-1282. H
ORLANDO WHITE PARTY Saturday Apr. 16, 201,1 from 8:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Parliament House, 410 N Orange Blossom Trail in downtown Orlando. Time to start planning for one of Orlando’s biggest parties of the year. Featuring Juju Bee, Alexis Mateo, Shangela and Yara Sofia. D.J. Brianna Lee spinning the hits for “Elevate”. White attire encouraged. Rooms are going fast. Book now at www,parliamenthouse.com. H
BABES IN BONNETS FUNDRAISER AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE
MISS HEART OF ORLANDO PAGEANT This is a preliminary to Miss Heart of Florida. Monday, Apr. 18, from 9 p.m. to 12 midnight at Mr. Sister's, 5310 East Colonial Dr. in Orlando. H
NINA VS. RAJA RuPaul’s Drag Race girls at the Parliament House (410 N Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando), Saturday May 7, 2011, in Orlando from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. 1st runner up of season one, Nina Flowers and top 5 (as it stands right now), Raja of season three will be joining the award winning Footlight Players: Darcel Stevens, V, Armani, Sassy Devine and the Men of the Footlight Theater. Three rooms of music – featuring D.J. Brianna Lee of Gayinternetradiolive.com in the disco, Pop 40 mix in the video bar and hip-hop/pop in the piano bar.H
BACK DOOR BUMBY Revolution Nightclub (375 S. Bumby Ave (408) in Downtown Orlando) along with GRINDR and MyFlexRadio presents “Back Door Bumby: Enter Through the Back” every 3rd Thursday of the month. This is Orlando's premier college night as you've never seen it before. No cover when you show your GRINDR or MyFlexRadio App. No cover ‘til 11pm for those 21+ (18+ welcome) and no cover ‘til 12 midnight with college or theme park ID. Free drinks 11 to 11:30 p.m. Drinks specials throughout the night. Performances by Shantell D’Marco and Macaviti. D.J. Joanie on the decks in the disco area and V.J. J.B. Burgos in the Hydrate Video Bar.H
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The Mormon Boy Trilogy Gays and Mormons Can’t Get Enough of Each Other By WARREN DAY For the first time, before a planned opening off-Broadway this Fall, you can see the entire Mormon Boy Trilogy at the Rising Action Theater in Fort Lauderdale between now and April 24. And, on April 30 and May 1, one play in the trilogy will be at the Parliament House in Orlando. It all seems to be a slice of a gay/Mormon fascination, beginning with the Pulitzer Prize-winning "Angels in America," the very popular gay film "Latter Days," the 2010 documentary "8: The Mormon Proposition" on how Mormons were mainly responsible for the anti-gay marriage amendment passing in California, and the just-opened and highly-acclaimed Broadway musical, "The Book of Mormon," which one critic says contains the best gay song ever written. And that's not to mention a caboodle of gay fiction in such books as "Mormon Underwear" (yes, they do have special underwear), "Ockham's Razor" (I don't think they have special razors), or "The Abominable Gayman" (that may be the ultimate fundamentalist gay book title). Gays and Mormons seem to be locked in a dance, but not moving to the same beat or hearingthe same melody. Steven Fales has been performing his popular one-man show, "Confessions of a Mormon Boy" since 2001 where, in ways both humorous and poignant, he describes his hard scrabble journey through the closet, excommunication, divorce, working as a prostitute and a crystal meth addiction. There's certainly enough conflict and crisis to fill a trilogy. While I correctly label these productions as one-man shows, don't let that discourage you from seeing them, because Fales is an accomplished performer who knows how to hold an audience, and these plays are filled with recorded voices, sound effects, songs and costume changes (and sometimes with little or no costume). You do get to see that Mormon underwear. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (their official name) is a kind of ultimate high school clique, with its own secret handshake, its DeMolay-like rituals, its low tolerance for any deviation from clique approved behavior, its dress codes, and the "we-belong-and-youdon't" attitude. And just like cliques in high school, we find ourselves both repelled and attracted. Part of the fascination is that Fales takes you inside where non-Mormons were never intended to go, to learn of the secret rituals and customs, although secret ceremonies seldom turn out to be
as fascinating once the veil is pulled away. "Confessions of a Mormon Boy," the most polished of the plays, lays out Fales' dilemma as a sixthgeneration Mormon facing a choice between being honest (and thereby cast into eternal hell by his church) or being a hypocrite (and thereby seen as a poster boy for the straight and narrow). "Missionary Positions" is a prequel to "Confessions," dealing with his two years as a missionary in Portugal, where he struggles more with Mormonism than his sexuality, and also where he takes you inside a secret Temple ceremony, wearing his skimpy Temple garb. In "Who's Your Daddy," the boy is now grown and struggling with his relationship to his straight father, and also in a battle for custody rights with his two children. It is definitely a work-inprogress, but Fales considers it the most emotionally moving of his plays. The three plays do stand on their own, and can be enjoyed individually. You may not be Mormon – or even religious, but there's much in these evenings that will hit home for anyone in the GLBT community, or for those who've ever had to straddle two misunderstood minority groups. It is a cautionary tale of a man who often blamed others for the mistakes that were usually of his own making. As Fales says, being a gay Mormon makes you a kind of ‘oxymormon,’ but it also grants you some hard won insight for coming to terms with who you are, no matter how big or wide the obstacles might be. The fact that he does it with so much humor and the fact that we can receive it with so much laughter shows how far he, and we, have come.
Steven Fales has been performing his popular one-man show, "Confessions of a Mormon Boy" since 2001
The trilogy plays until April 24 at the Rising Action Theatre, located at Sunshine Cathedral, 1480 SW 9th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315. Tickets are $35 for each, or $75 for all three. For show times for the plays, and to purchase tickets, go to www.risingactiontheatre.com. Or you can call 1-800595-4849 or 954-561-2225. On April 30 and May 1, "Confessions" will be performed at the Parliament House in Orlando. H
Photos courtesy of Steven Fales
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COUNSELING FREE LIFE COACHING Planning a change in your work? Have questions about your current relationship? Thinking about new priorities in your future? You can meet one of our life coaches for confidential discussions to help you achieve your goals. Estas planeando en cambiar de trabajo? Tienes dudas o preguntas sobre tu relación actual? Has pensado sobre nuevas prioridades en tu futuro? Has una cita con nuestros consejeros personales que te pueden ayudar a alcanzar tus metas en sesiones totalmente confidenciales. Juntos is at 2330 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors. (954) 765-6239. www.latinossalud.org A MIND AT PEACE/ THERAPEUTIC SERVICES/ RON "DOC" CHAMBERS, MSW (954) 627-0103 1975 East Sunrise Blvd Suite 629 Fort Lauderdale HIV Related Issues/Anxiety/Depression/Schizophrenia/Relationship Problems/Anger Management Problems/Same-Sex Battering/Domestic Violence. Most Insurance Accepted/Credit Cards Accepted.
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HOME IMPROVEMENT MASTER ELECTRICIAN- Service Upgrades, interconnected smoke alarms, phone and cable jacks, remodels, etc. No job to small! All work will be done in a neat & clean manner. LIC. CONTRACTORS BUILD CONFIDENCE! Gay owned. Lic#02CME2028X Call 954.665.0417 Derek’s 24 HR HANDYMAN SERVICE. Introducing our new cabinet shop! For all your custom made cabinetry countertops laminates. YOU MUST SEE OUR WORK, just ask our clients. All electrical to code; ANY & ALL plumbing work, Drywall finish work / repair. Crown / baseboard pro-install, interior / exterior painting, demo work, Pressure washing, Decor tile install, Complete home up-dates. For large jobs, 4-man crew available. WE CAN HANDLE IT ALL! Instant call back, direct service response. No job is ever too small. Excellent references. Derek (954) 825-5598 or Email: DerekGallaway@att.net
MOVING ELITE RELOCATION MOVING & STORAGE We've provided quality moves for over 30 years. It's always a smooth move when you choose Elite Relocation. Contact us today: 954975-8660 elitemoving.com GUYS and DOLLIES. Moving * Storage * Packing * Crating * Shipping. “A” Rated Member of the BBB Register Movers since 1976. Major credit cards accepted. For free price quote, Call (954) 566-1270
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RENTALS / FTL WILTON MANORS/MIDDLE RIVER Luxurious newly renovated 2/1 poolside condo! Lush tropical landscaping, granite counters, SS Appliances. Walk to Wilton Dr. $895/mo. Available now! 202.413.3767 WILTON STATION- 2 BD/2BA condo w 1,681 sqft, 3rd floor facing the Promenade, NOT the RR tracks! 3 balconies, marble floors, SS appliances, granite countertops, W/D. $1,950/mo o/b/o, BIG DOGS OK! Call Joe Schutz, EXIT Ryan Scott Realty. 954-461-7895 or www.EXITrsr.com-WILTON MANORS, LUXURY TOWNHOME 3BD/3.5BA In the heart of Wilton Manors, just one block from Wilton Dr. Custom kit. w/ granite counters and breakfast bar, stainless steel appl., balcony, 2 car garage, community pool. $1900/mo. Please call Michael 954.270.9597
WILTON MANORS ELITE PET SITTERS…CATS, DOGS, BIRDS, ETC…Why put your pet in a kennel? We will come to your home and care for your pets! While you are away, we will make your home look lived in by bringing in the mail, watering plants, managing lighting, etc. 14 years experience. Bonded and Insured. Call Tony 954.888.8909 or Donna 954.804.2106
REAL ESTATE Call JOANN MARCUS, THE BUYER'S AGENT! Tell me about yourself, what you're looking for and I'll do ALL THE WORK FOR FREE! Ease your mind and save your time! Visiting from out of town and don't know who to call? Call JOANN MARCUS, THE BUYERS AGENT! 954 940-1244 Hot Deals, Foreclosures, Short Sales, and Rentals. Kensington & Company FORT LAUERDALE TOWNHOME These unique two-story townhome are the best kept secret and best value in Ft. Laud. Located in a secured gated downtown neighborhood .Great location within walking distance to downtown, dining, nightlife, & attractions of Riverwalk. Beautiful heated pool & tennis courts in community. FHA approved financing, only 3.5% down required. Attractive pricing is a fraction of their 2004 sales, under $130,00! . Call YOUR BUYERS AGENT, JOANN MARCUS 954 940-1244 Kensington & Company POMPANO BEACH 1/1 CONDO- screened patio poolside, tiled entry/kitchen/bath, hardwood floors, CAC, low maint. fees. 5 mins to beach! Pet Friendly! 47K OBO. (954)782-1499 PUT YOUR IRA ON STEROIDS! Use your IRA to buy wholesale bank owned real estate and create a 12 % plus annual cash on cash return. Turn Key Real Estate company helps you buy a wholesale bank owned foreclosure with equity. Company also provides affordable renovation teams and property managers. Build wealth today with our proven 20 year turn key acquisition and management program. Contact Robert for more information. 954-336-0436 www.robertblairrealestate.com
RENTALS / FTL WILTON MANORS 2BR/1BA- extra large garden apartment with private backyard. CAC, W/D,one mile to Alibi. Pets OK. $950/mo. EZ Qualify (954) 610-3310 COLOHATCHEE PARK AREA- Large Furnished Studio w/ full kitchen, DirecTV & Utilities incl. No Pets. $750/mo. F/S (954)682-9428 WILTON MANORS/WATERFRONT! 2/2 Sub-Penthouse, completely renovated. New kitchen, new baths, new tile! Dockage available. Heated pool. Gym. $1500/mo, F/L/S Robert MacKilligan, Galleria Intl. (954)234-8759 OAKLAND PARK GATED 3/2 Villa Furnished/Unfurn Annual lease avail JUNE 1 $1100/month+sec Open floor plan, patio, vaulted ceilings, w/d, cable, internet, tennis, pool, fitness ctr, walking/jogging/cycling area. No smoking (954) 260-7309 WILTON MANORS 2/1 Condo CAC, screened porch, overlooking the Middle River and pool on the 3rd floor. Excellent condition, $850/mo $1800 move in. Nice sized bedrooms, great complex at Wilton Shores East Bill Corey, Realtor 954-249-2009 or billcorey@live.com WILTON MANORS/WATERFRONT! 2/2 Sub-Penthouse, completely renovated. New kitchen, new baths, new tile! Dockage available. Heated pool. Gym. $1500/mo, F/L/S Robert MacKilligan, Galleria Intl. (954)234-8759
LAKERIDGE/FT LAUDERDALE Renovated 1/1, new kitchen, W/D, vaulted ceilings, 2 pvt decks, CAC, basic cable and electric included. Available 4/1/11. Near Publix, close to downtown. $950/mo F/L. Ref Req. 954.554.5095 WILTON MANORS/FT LAUDERDALE Large 1/1, CAC, Updated, Private Patio and Parking, W/D, in a 4 unit gay complex. Drive by and see the cleanest apt. in the area! 15 NE 16th St. $850/mo. I will work with you on movein costs! Call Nick (954)805-1195 PERFECT RELOCATION RENTALS – 3-6 MONTHS From $295/week & $1200/month Beautiful Studio, 1 & 2 BR Apts. Turn key, fully furnished & equipped, clothing optional pool, laundry, parking. Close to Gay & Nude Beaches. Pets Welcome. Incl. utilities, cable, tel., Wi-Fi Internet. 954-927-0090 or visit www.LibertySuites.com RIVERSIDE PARK- 1/1 COTTAGE! Set in tropical private oasis! 5 mins from downtown. Tile thru-out, brand new granite & cherry kitchen, private W/D & screened patio. Gas/water/cable incl. $875/mo + sec. dep. Pets OK 954.990.8335 WILTON MANORS 3BD/2BA POOL HOME!! All new kitchen w/ granite & stainless steel, cathedral ceiling family room, hardwood floors in all 3 bedrooms, 15X30 screened patio, lots of storage! W/D, fenced back yard. Walk to the drive from this quiet East side address. $1975/mo or rent to buy! 954.234.8759 WILTON MANORS/THE WOODS CONDOS- 1BD/1BA, Waterfront, Poolview, Large Deck, W/D in unit, $795/mo + Deposit. Call 202.841.9216 ALIBI AREA Furnished Studio Apt. Lg Studio with private entrance and parking, walk-in closet, fn, AC, kitchenette, laundry on site, Electric and Direct TV included, NO SMOKING,NO PETS $650/mo+sec. Call 954-682-942 MIDDLE RIVER & LAKERIDGE MOVE-IN SPECIAL 1/2 OFF 1ST MTH RENT!! 1 Bedroom/1 Bath $680/mo or $175/wk OR 2/2 $850/mo or $225/wk-(6 or 12) month lease. Pay your deposit today and you're in* details (954)527-9225
ROOMMATES ROOMMATE WANTED-FT. LAUDERDALE- Furnished room with private bath, W/D, Jacuzzi, private patio, lakeview. All utilities incl. $125/week available immediately . (954)8030885 3/2 POOL HOME TO SHARE- totally renovated w/ hardwood floors, granite, stainless steel appl., W/D, Direct TV , internet. No pets. $600/mo. F/L David 954.205.8363
SPIRITUALITY The Parish of Sts. Francis and Clare 101 NE 3rd Street, just N of Broward and E of Andrews. Mass times: Sat @ 5 PM: Sun @ 10:30 AM; Wed @ 7 PM. Where we welcome and appreciate diversity - a progressive community in the Catholic tradition. 954-731-8173 www.stsfrancisandclare.org CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRITSONG Welcomes you to come and worship with us every Sunday at 10 am and every Wednesday night at 8 pm. We meet at the SpiritSong Worship Center at 2040B North Dixie Highway Suite 3 in Wilton Manors (Building B on Equality Park Campus, behind the Pride Center). God loves you just the way He made you. Come discover His purpose for you. For more info: (954) 418-8372, info@cohss.com, www.cohss.org.
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