SFGN 02/05/20 V11iss6

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february 5, 2020 vol. 11 // issue 6

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BSO Tightlipped On Henry Vidal’s Murder Investigation Tim Martin

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the apartment, but no match could be found in any database.

There has been silence ever since.

Vidal was 32 when his body was discovered by a co-worker in May 2015. His death was ruled a homicide after the medical examiner released details of the autopsy to authorities. Vidal was employed at the now closed B Bar on Wilton Drive. Prior to that, Vidal bartended at the Alibi.

SFGN also reached out to Vidal friend Evan Linette, of Fort Lauderdale. Linette said he has not heard from police in the past year.

“The community has supported me through this difficult time, and I thank them,” Labarta repeated to SFGN. “I’m still hoping to have closure.”

Cover: Carmen Carrera. Photo via Facebook.

Associated Press 2. 5.2 0 2 0

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Henry Vidal. SFGN file photo.

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till not a clue.

It’s been almost five years since Henry Vidal, a popular bartender on “The Drive,” was found dead in his Wilton Manors apartment.

Police continue to be tightlipped over the investigation.

“I have kept in contact. So far, no news,” Vidal’s mother, Caridad “Cary” Labarta, 64, of Pembroke Pines, told SFGN last week. “To be honest, I don’t think they are doing much.

I sent the detective an email on January 10 and he hasn’t responded.”

SFGN also reached out to Det. Mike Roque as well as Broward Sheriff’s Office Senior Public Information Officer Keyla Concepcion. Neither has responded to SFGN’s request for information.

Last year, SFGN reported that police told Labarta that Vidal died of a spleen injury and that he simply could have fallen.

According to Labarta police also told her a second person’s DNA was discovered inside

Henry Vidal (right) with his mother, Cary Labarta. Photo via Cary Labarta, Facebook.

@SFGN

February 5, 2020 • Volume 11 • Issue 6

“To be honest, I don’t think they are doing much. I sent the detective an email on January 10 and he hasn’t responded.”

- Caridad "Cary" Labarta Henry Vidal's Mother

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2.5.2020 •

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NEWS local

Latinos Salud Celebrates

11 Years With Gala RuPaul’s Drag Race’s Carmen Carrera to headline event Damon Scott

L

atinos Salud is once again hosting a fundraising gala — this time to mark its 11th year in operation as a unique South Florida health care organization.

The Feb. 8 event will feature performer Carmen Carrera as the emcee.

Carrera, who identifies as a Latina transgender women, is known as a strong voice for AIDS advocacy. She gained popularity as a contestant on the third season of TV reality show “RuPaul’s Drag Race.”

This is the second year Latinos Salud has hosted a fund-raising gala.

“If you weren’t able to attend last year, get ready for the eye-popping venue, the highenergy performers, the passionate speakers and the dancing,” executive director Stephen Fallon said.

Fallon said there will be a surprise guest from the America’s Got Talent TV show, three surprise awards and “some testimonials that will raise hearts up.”

The night will also feature local Latino musicians and performers, an open bar and an awards dinner.

In a nutshell, Latinos Salud provides its clients (Latino gay, bisexual or otherwise

identified men who have sex with men, all persons living with HIV, and all persons who identify as transgender) with free, culturally competent health education, prevention services, screening and links to other groups with the goal to “reduce the burden of communicable diseases and improve health outcomes.”

Fallon said the organization gained another year of important insight in 2019.

“South Florida is either going to make huge steps towards decreasing HIV rates, or stay stuck as the region with the highest new HIV rates and third-highest AIDS rates in the nation,” he said.

Fallon said that gay and transgender persons of color are at the highest risk, both of acquiring HIV, and of suffering poor health outcomes when living with HIV. But he said there is reason for optimism, too.

“Government health partners and community-based agencies are planning

Last year’s Gala. Photo courtesy of Stephen Fallon, Latinos Salud.

Stephen Fallon at last year’s Gala. Photo courtesy of Stephen Fallon, Latinos Salud.

new programs together in a more unified effort than we’ve seen in decades. We have opportunities, yet also remaining challenges.”

Fallon said the challenges stem from dealing with red tape and bureaucracy.

“We know that treatment keeps people healthy, but our patchwork insurance system makes it hard for many to stay in care. We know that PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis medication) works, yet it’s not being offered, or [is] not affordable to many who would benefit most,” he said.

In addition, Fallon said, ongoing stigmas surrounding HIV/AIDS still often divides the community and has an effect on those who might seek care.

“Too often, local Latino and other minority gay men do not know how to access care, fear they cannot afford care, or even postpone testing until their health has degraded significantly,” Fallon said. “HIV hides in the shadows of rumors and fears.”

Fallon said Latinos Salud is launching some major new initiatives this year, which will be shared at the gala.

“The most important thing we’ll share, though, is an amazing evening of fun and spirit with the entire community,” he said.

Ticket information The event takes place from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Design Center of the Americas in Dania Beach. The DCOTA is located at 1855 Griffin Road. A 6 p.m. cocktail hour takes place for those purchasing VIP tickets.

Fallon said it’s important to get tickets in advance so there’s no wait at the door.

For ticket information, go to LatinosSalud. org to fill out a reservation form, or email your name, contact information and the number of tickets you’d like to buy to events@latinossalud.org.

You can also call 954-765-6239, ext. 207 and leave your name, number of tickets and contact information for a return confirmation.

“You’ll get your barcode a few days before the event, so you can scan in and be right on your way to the festivities,” Fallon said.

Tickets are $175 with a VIP option for $225.

“Community members can take pride in knowing that their gala entry ticket helps close the holes in our budget so that we can continue to serve all people with compassion and consistency,” Fallon said.

Latinos Salud has walk-in services in three Broward and Miami-Dade locations.

More information is at LatinosSalud.org.

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news international

By John Porter

gay VINE the

drag

celebrity

Dragnificent Comes to TLC

Sara Gilbert Files For Divorce

“Dragnificent,” TLC network’s new show about four drag queens who help to transform people into their best selves as they prepare for major life events will star some of drag’s biggest names. Alexis Michelle, Bebe Zahara Benet, Jujubee and Thorgy Thor will inspire lucky people who are in need of a little help.

TLC says, the drag queens “flip the switch and sprinkle their glitz on people who desperately wish for a mega-makeover as part of an upcoming life milestone. The series will take viewers on a loud, outrageous and heartwarming ride as the queens help each person reveal the best version of themselves—inside and out,” per TLC. The foursome took the stage at the TV Critics Association winter press tour

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Dragnificent. Image via TLC.

recently saying the show taught them just as much as they were able to teach.

“Dragnificent” comes to TLC in April 2020.

“The Conners” star Sara Gilbert has enjoyed a successful television career, but hasn’t found the same success personally. The “Roseanne” star filed for divorce from her wife, song writer Linda Perry of nearly six years on Dec. 27. The pair share 4-year-old son Rhodes Emilio. Gilbert is also mom to her two kids, Levi Hawk, 15, and Sawyer Jane, 12, from a previous relationship. Fourtime Grammy-nominated songwriter and music producer Perry said of the split, “everything happens for a reason,” adding that the two “are evolving into something else.”

In April Gilbert announced she was leaving the CBS daytime show “The Talk” after nine years to focus on her family saying recently, “It takes perseverance to be in Hollywood, and

Sara Gilbert. Photo via Sara Gilbert, Facebook.

you get in touch with your own fighting spirit when you live out here, no matter what you do.”

music

television

Janelle Monàe Comes Out as Nonbinary

Tan France Gets Baked

Singer Janelle Monàe, who came out in 2018 as pansexual has now shared another identity with fans via Twitter sharing that she now identifies as non-binary.

Monàe’s tweet included a retweet which read, “There is absolutely nothing better than living outside the gender binary” alongside the hashtag #IAmNonbinary which began to trend throughout the day.

The “I Like That” singer joins fellow musician Sam Smith who also came out as non-binary in March of 2019. Monàe has yet to comment any further on her gender identity or clarify if her pronouns have changed, but the singer received a series of affirming tweets from fans and friends.

6

Keep up with the celebrities in our community

Janelle Monàe. Photo via Janelle Monàe, Facebook.

Queer Eye fashion guru Tan France, is headed to “The Great British Bake Off” in a special version of the popular baking show which will see Celebrities competing to raise money for Stand Up to Cancer. The Great British Bake Off for stand Up to Cancer is in its third iteration, following two seasons of stars raising money for a great cause.

Each episode features four celebrities facing off against one another in a test of their baking skills until one is ultimately crowned the Star Baker. “‘The Great Celebrity BakeOff’ is the key ingredient in our Stand Up to Cancer recipe,” said Sarah Lazenby, head of formats and features at Channel 4. Tan continues to build from his Queer Eye success with the announcement of his upcoming

Tan France. Photo via Tan France, Facebook.

Netflix competition show called, “Next Fashion.”

NEWS state

‘Home-Based Businesses’ Bill A Threat To Local Conversion Therapy Bans John McDonald

Florida Capitol. Credit: David Wilson, via Flickr.

A

mong the cluster of anti-LGBT bills filed this year in Tallahassee, HB 537 poses the greatest threat to efforts to outlaw conversion therapy.

“As written this is a broad preemption bill which restricts local governments from passing any laws that would restrict or regulate businesses run out of someone’s home,” said Joe Saunders, senior political director at Equality Florida. “This means local ordinances that ban conversion therapy would be void if the practice was happening in a home office or home-based setting. This would carve a huge loophole into existing conversion therapy bans in 22 municipalities in Florida in addition to all future ordinances.”

Conversion therapy, sometimes referred to as reparative therapy, is an attempt to change an individual’s sexual orientation from homosexual or bisexual to heterosexual by deploying psychological or spiritual

interventions. Presently, 19 U.S. states and Puerto Rico ban the practice of conversion therapy on minors.

The Florida house bill is sponsored by Reps. Anthony Sabatini (R-Lake County) and Byron Donalds (R-Naples). Donalds, 41, recently announced his intentions to seek the open house seat in the 19th U.S. congressional district. In campaign materials, Donalds describes himself as a “strong Trump supporting, gun owning, liberty loving, pro-life, politically incorrect, black man.”

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2.5.2020 •

7

NEWS local Photo via Pride of the Americas, Facebook.

‘Pride Fort Lauderdale’ Goes International Inaugural ‘Pride of the Americas’ replaces annual festival Rick Karlin

T

here won’t be a Pride Fort Lauderdale this year!

Instead the organization is hosting Pride of the Americas, a five-day festival taking place April 21-26. It will incorporate many of the Pride Fort Lauderdale events, while welcoming and representing countries from throughout the Americas from Canada to Chile. There will still be a Pride parade on Saturday, April 25, but the beach-front festival will celebrate the rainbow array of communities to be found in the Western Hemisphere. In addition to the parade and festival, an array of events, many of which are free to attend, will take place during the five-day celebration.

The festival kicks off

with a women-centric event, “Pussy Party: A Playful, Illuminating, and Empowering Celebration,” on Tuesday, April 21 as Thinking Cap Theatre in association with Thou Art Woman hosts the event at Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts in Fort Lauderdale. On Wednesday, April 22, Nova Southeastern University hosts an Earth Day volunteer experience from 8 a.m. to noon.

That same night is the opening night gala and Mayor’s welcome reception, at the Museum of Discovery & Science in Fort Lauderdale.

On Thursday, April 23

the daytime schedule moves to the Pride Center for two events. First up is “Spotlight on Seniors: Aging in the Americas” from 8 a.m. to noon.

There’s a luncheon at noon, followed by an “LGBT+ Health & Wellness Symposium” until 4 p.m. That evening two events are scheduled; “Suddenly Last Summer” by Island City Stage at the Wilton Theater Factory, and a fashion show, at Seminole Hard Rock Resort & Casino in Hollywood.

On Friday, April 24

a Pride of the Americas business conference, will take place from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., hosted by Citrix, Fort Lauderdale. A transgender issues summit will take place at 1 p.m., followed by a sunset

intracoastal cruise, 6 - 8 p.m.

Entertainment options include “Unbreakable,” from the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida at Sunshine Cathedral, and “Suddenly Last Summer,” from Island City Stage. That night the action moves to The Drive as Wilton Manors bars, clubs, shops and restaurants welcome the visitors and locals.

Saturday, April 25

kicks off with the Rainbow 5K Run from 6 - 9 a.m., then everyone heads to the beach for the festival beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Las Olas Beach Park. The Pride of the Americas Parade steps off at noon on A1A and Vistamar heading south to Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. That night “Diversity Honors” takes place at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood. Entertainment options include the Gay Men’s Chorus concert and Island City Stage productions (see above), as well as a night of comedy with Ian Harvie from “Transparent” at Thinking Cap Theatre.

Sunday, April 26

winds up the weekend with a “Faith and Pride” service at 11 a.m., at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. The beach festival begins at noon and concludes with fireworks at 9 p.m. in Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. Island City Stage offers a matinee performance of “Suddenly Last Summer.”

This month’s Mirror is being distributed starting today. To purchase your ad for our Spring Pride edition, contact the SFGN sales department at 954-530-4970.

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9

NEWS local

Trans Gurus Seeks to

Break New Ground Denise Royal

P

anel talk shows are TV staples. The View, The Talk, The Real — feature women from different backgrounds who bring disparate experiences and points of view to the conversation.

Now, there is a new online show with a similar format aimed at a different audience.

Trans Gurus is a panel of transgender hosts who speak on a wide range of topics of interest to transgender people at every phase of their lives. The panelists are Bonnie Dee, Christian Gemignani, Jimi LeGette, Ella Marques, and Rajee Narinesingh.

Narinesingh may look familiar to many from her activism and appearances on TV shows, including Dr. Phil, Anderson Cooper 360, or Botched on E! Marques is a published author. She described her journey of transitioning at age 60 in her book, “I Was Born a Boy from Venus.”

The idea for Trans Gurus started with Dee. “She wanted to do something like a support group,” Marques said. “Because there is not support for trans people all over the world.

Being transgender is not always fun. But we are always our authentic selves. We share our struggles and our successes.”

“Being transgender is not always fun. But we are always our authentic selves.”

- Ella Marques

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The cast of Trans Gurus welcoming their viewers in their introduction video. Image via Trans Gurus, Facebook.

The concept is simple — a talk show for trans people by trans people. “It’s a thoughtprovoking, compelling, and entertaining conversation with a trans twist,” Narinesingh said. “Slowly but surely, it’s growing. The last video had about 5,000 views after being up for just a couple of days.”

The goal is to educate, inform, and inspire.

“The idea is that we would be able to help transgender individuals gain alignment within themselves at all different levels of transitioning,” Gemignani said. “Whether you’re questioning, whether you’re in the beginning stages or a veteran with access to hormones or not, all these different things that we could teach others about this transition. It’s endless. Every single person on our panel had something to offer that is completely different. We are all unique in that.”

The panelists each have a roadmap that

can help others find their path. Gemignani is the only trans man on the panel.

“It’s almost like I’m in the Twilight Zone sometimes because everybody else has had the opposite experience,” he said. “I was born female, and it was a long journey for me to realize who I am and being comfortable with myself to the point where I became natural.

So now that I’ve gained a lot of experience in my life and I’m able to give back and do it amongst my sisters, it’s pretty interesting to see how I’ve made myself into who I am.”

Transgender people face hiring discrimination, workplace issues, health disparities, lack of primary care, high rates

of HIV infection, and high rates of attempted suicide.

“I think there is still like a lot of stigmas when it comes to us,” Narinesingh said. “We want to try and break through some of the stigma, if not all of it.”

Relationships, regrets, resolutions, and dating are the shows you can view on YouTube. From here, Trans Gurus hopes to grow its audience.

“What we’d like to do right now is to get more guest speakers, and people who can bring some other ideas to the group,” Marques said. “I think that it’s something we definitely want to do.”

You can catch up on episodes of Trans Gurus and learn more about the group on its Facebook page: Facebook.com/TransGurus.

NEWS miami-dade

Pictured: Pablo Reinaldo Romo-Figueroa, Luis Alonso-Piovet, Juan C. Lopez and Adonis Diaz. Photos via Miami-Dade Corrections.

is Justice Delayed Justice Denied?

Trial of Accused Miami Gay Bashers Postponed…Again

Jason Parsley

T

he upcoming trial for four men accused of attacking a gay couple in 2018 after the closing festivities of Miami Beach Pride has been postponed until May. On Thursday, Jan. 30 the circuit court held a status conference in Miami on the matter. The case was continued until May 5.

The four defendants — Adonis Diaz, Juan Carlos Lopez, Luis Alonso Piovet, and Pablo Reinaldo Romo-Figueroa — all in their early 20s, have pled not guilty.

The trial was supposed to start Feb. 10 and before that Jan. 21.

As the trial continues to be delayed one of the victims is growing increasingly frustrated.

“I am so tired of it,” Dmitry Logunov said.

“I want it to be over.”

Here’s a recap of what allegedly happened: the attack took place when Rene Chalarca and Logunov were leaving a public bathroom in Lummus Park in Miami Beach on April 8, 2018.

“We were walking and holding hands and needed to use the bathroom,” Logunov told SFGN in 2018. So the two of them stopped

at public restroom as they headed home for the evening.

As Logunov walked out of the restroom he was allegedly called a “faggot” in Spanish, punched, and then beaten unconscious.

His boyfriend at the time, Chalarca, quickly intervened, but three more men jumped in and began to attack them both.

“This was my first time going to a gay parade,” Chalarca said in 2018. Physically they’ve both recovered.

The attack was caught on camera and the four suspects have been charged with three counts of aggravated battery and a hate crime enhancement was added to the charges.

Footage captured during the alleged attack.

Image via the Miami Beach Police Department.

“I am so tired of it. I want it to be over.”

- Dmitry Logunov alleged victim

2.5.2020 •

11

KEEP YOUR EYES ON

South Florida Gay News

NEWS local

Advocacy Gets More Personal Through National Black HIV/ AIDS Awareness Day Joanie Cox-Henry

SFGN.com @SoFlaGayNews

SouthFloridaGayNews

1164 East Oakland Park Blvd. Suite 201

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early 50,000 African Americans are living with HIV in Florida and those numbers are continuing to climb according to Tatiana Williams.

As Co-Founder and Executive Director of Transinclusive Group, Williams also currently oversees the HIV Department at the Pride Center and works daily to make sure HIV Testing is available to everyone in Broward County.

With National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day approaching on Feb. 7, Williams would like to see more of a spotlight on those who are locally living with HIV and AIDS and also see more trans representation in the black community.

“I was welcomed into a lot of spaces in Tatiana Williams, Executive Director of the trans community and I noticed a lack Transinclusive Group and overseer of the HIV department at The Pride Center. Photo via The of involvement in HIV and AIDS prevention Pride Center. care in the African American community,” Williams said. “Once a week, we have support group within the trans community. diagnoses in 2017 with more than 4,800 new We have trans men, trans women and non- cases identified. binary. A lot of them are at risk.”

“Knowledge is power and our community While Williams along with Transinclusive doesn’t understand,” Williams said. “To see Group continues to spread HIV and Aids change, we must be a part of that. There’s a awareness, Williams believes not enough stigma with HIV. People don’t want to talk people are advocating the right way. about it. It’s about educating our community “The way the system is set from within. Getting tested is up, when you cover people just a simple finger prick and “The way the system you can your results within 20 of color, it looks like that demographic is being served is set up, when you minutes. We offer testing at on paper when in reality the Pride Center and we also cover people of it’s not,” Williams said. offer in-home HIV testing for “When we’re speaking to color, it looks like the trans community.” the CDC, they’re not seeing With more than 40,000 that demographic what the needs of a specific new cases of HIV getting population are from the diagnosed across the nation is being served ground up. It has to start at each year, it’s a health on paper when in a higher level and it requires crisis that remains even supporting black-led work more of a threat in Florida, reality it’s not.” and making sure we have disproportionately affecting - Tatiana Williams equity in and access to the African American gay and bi work we’re trying to do.” men and transwomen.

Executive director of Transinclusive Group, Williams will be speaking “When I transitioned over Head of hiv department as part of a Voices of Black 30 years ago, we didn’t have at the pride center Trans Women panel March access to what we have now,” 25 at the African American Williams said. “A lot of my Research Library and Cultural Center and friends have succumbed to HIV and AIDS. aims to continue to shed a spotlight on Doing pageants before advocacy, I felt it HIV awareness and testing. It’s a cause that was my duty to improve my community. It’s caught Williams’ attention in 2014 and important to stay involved and it will take remains a strong focus since Florida had all of us working together to truly make a the nation’s third-highest rate of new HIV difference.”

NEWS local

Snapshot

Of The

week

Andy Perrot of Lightship Media was surprised by the team of Julian’s Fountain of Youth with a birthday cake last month at the Sanctuary Church filming of “Myrna’s Revenge” for the Reverse Quinceanera. Submitted photo.

2.5.2020 •

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NEWS health

Prep-aration What Black Men Should know Denise Royal

F

ebruary 7 is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD). It’s a day to promote HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and community involvement in black communities. Black people make up 12% of Florida’s population and 45% of people living with an HIV diagnosis.

There are countless articles written about the importance of testing and treatment. This year, let’s focus on prevention.

Let’s face it—dealing with HIV is easy if you don’t have it.

While the number of new cases for heterosexual black men and women is declining, new cases for bisexual and gay black men remain too high.

There are many reasons for this, including limited access to high-quality, affordable health care. In 2020, there’s still not enough HIV prevention education, which also increases the risk for HIV. “I think it’s a little bit of a cultural issue that some black men at high risk tend not to come to get tested,” said Dr. Paula Eckardt, Chief of Infectious Disease at Memorial Healthcare System. “So if they’re not like thinking that they are either high risk or potentially getting infected with HIV, they’re probably not going to seek ways to prevent it.”

The Trump administration wants to reduce new HIV infections in the U.S. An essential part of the plan is the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis or PrEP, a daily medication to help prevent The first step the virus. The medicines, emtricitabine and is finding a tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, are known by the brand names Truvada and Descovy. doctor who When HIV negative men use these drugs makes you feel as prescribed, they decrease their risk of contracting the virus through sex with men by comfortable at least 99%. In short, using these medications and who will as part of a safe-sex lifestyle is effective.

The Centers for Disease Control and speak frankly Prevention (CDC) recommend PrEP for those at high risk for HIV, including: to you about • Men who have sex with men • Heterosexual men and women who have high-risk exposure • People who inject drugs • Transgender women

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A patient speaking to his doctor. Photo via Adobe.

PrEP Use Among Black Men

More than one million people in the U.S. would benefit from using PrEP. More than 75% of them are people of color. Yet, PrEP prescriptions for the populations at higher risk remain low. Consider this, PrEP coverage for whites is about 42%. It’s nearly 11% for Latinos sex life. and less than 6% for blacks.

Because PrEP works and not enough black men are using it, the question you may have is: how do you get it?

The first step is finding a doctor who makes you feel comfortable and who will speak frankly to you about your sex

life. “I think primary care physicians have to see everybody at a potential patient that you can educate,” Dr.Eckardt said.

“Doctors must then decide after asking the proper questions if that person is a high risk or not. The CDC has a pamphlet to help physicians talk about sex with their patients, how to ask the questions, and how to make them feel comfortable.”

If you’re concerned about your risk for HIV, talk to your doctor about taking PrEP or find a provider near you. If you’ve tried PrEP but had trouble using it regularly, discuss those issues with your provider, too. To find a PrEP provider visit: PrEPlocator.org.

PA L M B E A C H

news

West Palm Beach Implements Gender Neutral Restroom Policy

SMALL GROUP TOUR TO THE GALAPAGOS AND QUITO

Kristen Grau Last year, West Palm Beach began its effort to install genderneutral bathrooms in City Hall — and it became a reality this year.

The city finished placing 30 “gender neutral restroom” signs on singleoccupancy restrooms throughout the City Hall complex. The city’s next goal is to designate 130 gender neutral signs on city-owned single-occupancy restrooms, and eventually require all West Palm Beach’s commercial buildings with singleoccupancy restrooms to be designated as gender neutral.

This effort was sparked last year by the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, a nonprofit that advocates for LGBT rights.

“Transgender, gender nonconforming, nonbinary, and intersex people often face prejudice, discrimination and humiliation in their everyday lives,” said Palm Beach County Human Rights Council President Rand Hoch. “They deserve the same dignity and respect as everyone else enjoys, in every area of their lives — including being able to use public restrooms in which they feel comfortable.”

This initiative only affects singleoccupancy restrooms. Multiple-occupancy restrooms at the City Hall complex will still have “men” and “women” labels.

West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James said he is strongly on board with the idea.

“The segregation of single-occupancy restrooms by gender no longer makes sense,” James said. “No person in West Palm Beach should be denied the ability to use a single-stall restroom just because of who they are.”

In 2018, Orlando City Hall became the first government building in Florida to

“No person in West Palm Beach should be denied the ability to use a single-stall restroom just because of who they are.”

- Keith James

West Palm Beach Mayor

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include an “all-user” restroom, according to the Orlando Sentinel. Orlando City Hall’s restroom, however, is not singleoccupancy.

The Palm Beach County Human Rights Council cited a 2015 study from the National Center for Transgender Equality where 59 percent of transgender adults avoided using a public restroom that year because they were afraid of confrontation.

The study also found 12 percent of transgender people were verbally harassed when accessing a restroom — in addition to 1 percent being physically attacked.

The Palm Beach County Human Rights Council is also pushing for singleoccupancy restrooms throughout countyowned buildings to be designated as gender neutral. The council said their recommendation will be considered “later this year.”

“All gender restrooms will also ease the burden on people with disabilities who require the help of attendants, as well as parents with children of a different gender,” James said. “All West Palm Beach residents should feel equally safe, supported, comfortable and included when they go out.”

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Editorial Cartoon

Convictions

Editorial Cartoon

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Business SPOtlight

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WMG Volume 7 • Issue 5 February 5, 2020

Wilton Manors Gazette Facebook.com/groups/WMGazette

community

WILTON MANORS BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD

By Denise Royal Wilton Manors Business Association a new decade when small businesses face (WMBA) has a new leadership board. the challenges and opportunities of a Julietta Wenzel, co-owner of Ocean changing marketplace, digital technology Therapy Center, will lead the 300-member and increased competition from large organization. She is the first woman to corporate brands,” Wenzel said in a press release. “One of our goals for 2020 is to lead WMBA in almost a decade.

Wenzel, who’s served as vice president help our members meet these challenges.”

The incoming vice since 2017, says taking on a president is Peter Jackson, leadership role was not in her CEO of Peter Jackson Media, initial plans. After joining LLC, a business growth and the organization in 2015, marketing agency. she became vice president, He has served on the serving with immediate board since 2018 and edits past president Tim Moffitt. the group’s annual Wilton When asked to serve as Manors Business Directory president, she decided to and City Guide. rise to the occasion — and Dr. Vanessa Koutalidis, to try leadership for at least co-owner of Island City a year.

Chiropractic and Timothy S. “My predecessor Tim Hart, CEO of R3 Accounting, grew WMBA tremendously,” will continue serving as Wenzel said. “My job is to secretary and treasurer, keep it going. One of the - Julietta Wenzel respectively. really cool things we’ve New President of WMBA Tim Moffitt, president of added is to work closely Umbrella Credit Services, with the cities so that small businesses can work, succeed, grow, and rounds out the executive committee as immediate past president. thrive.”

Also serving on the WMBA volunteer She hopes to get more WMBA members to engage with the city to grow their Board of Directors are Jeff Sterling, president of Sterling Accounting; attorney businesses.

“Small businesses play a vital role in the Jeff Selzer, owner of Selzer Law; and Justin fabric of every community, and I’m thrilled Romano, president of Bayview Payroll to lead this incredible business group into Services. WMG

“My predecessor Tim grew WMBA tremendously.

My job is to keep it going.”

Pictured above, left: Julietta Wenzel, the new president of WMBA. Lower Right: Peter Jackson, incoming vice president of WMBA. Submitted photos.

For more information about the Wilton Manors Business Association, visit WiltonManorsBusinessAssociation.com.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.WMGAZETTE.com • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

2.5.2020 •

17

Opinion

WMG Wilton Manors 1984 Protect your privacy while you can

February 5, 2020 • Volume 7 • Issue 5

2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943

By Sal Torre  Photo via PxFuel.

“1984,” a George Orwell novel amazingly first published way back in 1949, is a bleak dystopian look at a society governed by propaganda, surveillance and censorship.

George might have had the year incorrect when he created the book’s title, because 2020 is looking much more like the world he foretold, a place of perpetual wars, government surveillance, historical negationism, and propaganda.

A recent incident at Hunters Nightclub here in Wilton Manors one Friday evening made me realize just how willing we are to nonchalantly hand over our privacy.

Hunters’ staff requires patrons to have their driver’s licenses scanned before being allowed to enter the club. Not such a big deal in a world where everything is being monitored by the internet and our cell phones.

Nonetheless, for whatever reason, this act caused me to pull back and ask why?

What is Hunters doing with this collected data? Is the data secure? Is it legal for a business to scan your license? Is it being sold to third parties? The questions are many, and assurances by Hunter’s staff did not still my unease.

If Hunters’ only interest was to check patrons’ age or the validity of their identification, then why not simply look at a person’s license for verification? Why the need to scan the bar code on the back of the license if not to collect data that is to be used in some unknown manner? Why is it OK to stand outside at Hunters and order a drink without such scanning, but if I want to drink inside, my age and ID becomes an issue? Furthermore, the average age at Hunters’ Friday Happy Hour is, to be kind, probably 40-ish, far above the legal drinking age of 21. So, it is unlikely that underage drinking is a big problem for them.

The days of getting giddy over a doorman proofing me for being under 21 is long gone.

If Hunters’ bouncers cannot see that this bald head, gray-bearded older gentleman is way over the drinking age of 21, they better get a new job and some stronger eyeglasses.

Publisher • Norm Kent norm.kent@sfgn.com Chief Executive Officer • Pier Angelo Guidugli piero@sfgn.com Associate publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley jason.parsley@sfgn.com Copyeditor • Kerri Covington

Editorial

Art Director • Brendon Lies artwork@sfgn.com News Editor • Sallie James

Correspondents

Sal Torre • James Oaksun

Staff Photographers

J.R. Davis • Carina Mask • Steven Shires

Sales & Marketing For ad placement in the Wilton Manors Gazette, contact 954-530-4970

Many younger folk who have comfortably sacrificed their identity through posting one’s entire life on social media might not see the big issue here. Having your license scanned is just another everyday reality.

However, many have not had the experience where such information is used against them, to label them subversive, to bar them from entry, or to alert certain parties of their whereabouts. Many older folk have lived through times when such data was or could have been used to ruin their lives, effect their employment, expose their lifestyle choices, and exploit and damage their reputation.

Hopefully, most people will never have to experience such reality, but I fear that may just be too much to ask for.

Healthcare organizations wanting to identify those who might be high risk due to social behaviors, law enforcement seeking information, marketers, companies looking to collect data on specific groups of individuals, the list is endless on the usage of such data that Hunters collects. Don’t try malingering your boss the next morning due to a hangover from partying all night, because the employer of tomorrow will be able to access available data and expose such foolery.

Perhaps we will just have to get accustomed to such realities due to the digital

Hopefully, most people will never have to experience such reality, but I fear that may just be too much to ask for.

transformation of our society. Governments and corporations have acquired frightening abilities to amass and search endless digital records from cell phone tracking, internet data collection, and many other surveillance technologies. Protections governing the use of such data are greatly lacking and should be a major concern for each and every one of us.

I am not sure if any other establishments along The Drive are scanning patrons’ licenses, but I do know that after I decided not to be scanned at Hunters, I walked down the Drive to other establishments that welcomed me and delivered wonderful service without my having to hand over personal data along with my money.

If you must get into Hunters on a Friday night, you can always buy a cocktail at the outside bar and stand close to the exit door.

Wait patiently while the doorman is busy scanning personal data from the queue of patrons lined up at the entrance, until someone exits the establishment, which gives you the perfect opportunity to make a quick dash inside before the doorman has a chance to react. Safely inside with your personal data intact, you are free to enjoy yourself with friends and others without leaving your digital footprint at the door.

Enjoy your freedom while you can, because Big Brother is unfortunately waiting for you just around the corner. Protecting one’s privacy, taking a stand when you feel something is not right and looking to keep a free and open society where all can flourish will always make life just better here. WMG

Sales Manager • Justin Wyse justin.wyse@sfgn.com Advertising Sales Associate • Edwin Neimann edwin.neimann@sfgn.com Advertising Sales Associate • Clark Rogers clark.rogers@sfgn.com Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com.

SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs.

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The mockingbird may be Florida’s state bird, but did you know it’s also the state bird of Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas?

Photo via Pxfuel.

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February 5, 2020

politics

Community

Mike Bracchi Launches Campaign for Wilton Manors City Commissioner

Wilton Manors Hosts Winter Book Fair Feb. 8

By Jason Parsley

By Denise Royal Looking for a good deal on used books?

How about videos and music CDs? (Yes, some people still listen to CDs.) The Friends of the Wilton Manors Library will host its Winter Book Fair on Saturday, Feb. 8. The sale runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The books, videos and music for both adults and children are for sale at low prices. Proceeds benefit the local public library.

The book fair takes place at the Hagen Park Community Center behind City Hall at 2020 Wilton Drive. Enter via NE 21st Court. Free admission and parking.

The event is coordinated by the allvolunteer, non-profit Friends of the Wilton Manors Library. Learn more about becoming a “Friends” member by visiting FriendsOfTheWiltonManorslibrary.org/ membership.php. WMG

x

The race for the Wilton Manors City healthcare consulting company.

The election is in November and there are Commission is starting to get crowded with a third a person declaring his candidacy for the two seats up for grabs.

In the release Bracchi outlined the three City Commission.

“I am excited to announce my candidacy main points of his candidacy: for commissioner and to 1. Fiscal Responsibility assist in creating a more vibrant future for our great Current 2. Sensible Economic island city. It’s time. Time for commissioner Development change. Time for progress.

Time for new leadership,” Julie Carson 3. Increasing Quality of said Mike Bracchi in a and political Life for Residents prepared statement. “Moving the city beyond 2020 will newcomer Bracchi serves on the Board of require common-sense Chris Caputo Directors for the Dolphin Democrats development to revitalize and is a member of the Wilton our commercial areas while have already Neighborhood Associations preserving the charm and announced their Manors and Historical Society. character of our singlecandidacies.

In addition Bracchi serves on family neighborhoods. the Wilton Manors Budget Review Current commissioner Advisory Committee where he works Julie Carson and political newcomer Chris Caputo have already with city employees to review current and proposed operating budgets, and to make announced their candidacies.

Bracchi is a licensed pharmacist, attorney, recommendations on the proposed budget for and hospital executive who now runs his own the City of Wilton Manors. WMG

• • • www.WMGAZETTE.com • • • 3 •

 Photo via PxFuel.

Nite Club Law If you drink, don’t drive. If you drive, don’t drink. If you do both, call us.

Criminal Defense Law Center 954.763.1900 Norman Elliott Kent

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www.NormKent.com February 5, 2020

2.5.2020 •

19

politics

 Focus on Politics 

The Gazette’s Q&A with the candidates for City Commission

Michael Bracchi hopes to bring fresh voice to Wilton Manors

By Sallie James

Michael Bracchi.

Photo via ivotemike.com.

T

hree seats on the Wilton Manors Commission are up for grabs in the Nov. 3, 2020 election and the campaigning has begun to heat up.

Three seats on the Wilton Manors Commission are up for grabs in the Nov. 3, 2020 election and the campaigning has begun to heat up.

Two 4-year Commission seats, occupied by Tom Green and Julie Carson, and the Mayor’s 2-year seat, occupied by Justin Flippen are up for election. Green is not running for re-election and Flippen has not yet announced if he is running for re-election.

To date, incumbent Julie Carson and political newcomers Michael Bracchi and Chris Caputo have announced their intentions to run for Commissioner.

Here is the first of our candidate profiles we will be running.

MICHAEL BRACCHI (WMG) Why have you decided to run for Commission?

(Michael Bracchi) Our city is experiencing a period of stagnation. Four out of five of the current commissioners have each served over a decade in the role; and collectively they have 60 years of service on the commission. It’s time for a change in leadership. We need passionate leaders with strong

“To create more balance, we need to attract more residents and rethink the types of businesses we have in our community.”

- Michael Bracchi

Candidate for wilton manors commissioner

business experience to move our city forward and to attract a diverse array of businesses. I am running to ensure that our city will not be left behind; and to help accelerate growth and development in a smart, sensible, and fiscally sound manner.

What are your qualifications?

I am a licensed pharmacist, attorney, and healthcare business executive who is dedicated to continually learning and challenging myself academically and professionally. I have earned several degrees, including a: • Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) from the University of Kansas; • Juris Doctor (JD - law degree) from St. John’s University; • M.S. Business Management & Leadership from the City University of New York; and • B.S. in Pharmacy from St. John’s University I also have numerous accomplishments within the business sector through serving in various roles in the healthcare industry, including:

• Managing a $350M budget that generated more than $1B in revenue; • Launching a specialty pharmacy business that went on to generate over $30M in revenue in the first year; and • Managing more than 200 employees.

Are you already involved in the city on boards, etc.?

I am a member of the Budget Review Advisory Committee, which all candidates for commissioner should be required to participate in prior to running for the role. Understanding the nuts and bolts of the city’s budget is crucial to establishing fiscal responsibility, and mismanagement of the budget could be disastrous for our community and our residents.

List your top issues of concern?

Fiscal Responsibility: I believe as a community we can spend more responsibly, investing in projects and programs that benefit the community as a whole and not on projects that only benefit a select few. I

will work towards improving fiscal management while maintaining priorities for our city such as: • Decreasing the overall tax rate while maintaining all of the services the city offers our residents; • Updating infrastructure, e.g. water and sewer pipes, roadways, and parking; and • Adopting technology and automation of city services in order to streamline processes and procedures.

Economic Development: Moving the city beyond 2020 will require smart, sensible, and commonsense development to revitalize our commercial areas while preserving the charm, character, and history of our single-family neighborhoods.

 To read the rest of the interview, visit SFGN.com/WMelection2020.



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February 5, 2020

NOW BEING DELIVERED ASK FOR YOUR COPY AT SFGN!

S O U T H

F L O R I D A

G AY

N E W S Vol. 9 Issue 1 February - March 2020

WINTER ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PREVIEW

READ IT ONLINE AT THEMIRRORMAG.COM

PHOTO VIA ADOBE.

2.5.2020 •

21

Jesse’s Journal

Convictions

The Imperial System Royalty for Our Community’s Sake Jesse Monteagudo

T

he International Imperial Court System (IICS), also known as the International Court System, is the second largest LGBT organization in the world, only surpassed by the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC).

It was founded in 1965 by José Sarria, one of San Francisco’s first queer activists and drag legend. “Mama José” took on the name “the Widow Norton” as homage to Joshua Norton (1818-1880), a 19th San Francisco eccentric who declared himself “Emperor of the United States and Protector of Mexico” in 1859. (If you must go crazy you might as well go big.) IICS soon became a grassroots network of community fundraisers whose members bore titles of nobility bestowed upon them by elected Emperors and Empresses.

In 2007, the elderly Widow Norton (who died in 2013) abdicated and was succeeded by the Empress Nicole the Great of San Diego, AKA Nicole Murray-Ramirez.

The Imperial Sun Court of All Florida, established in September 2016, is the 70th regional court that is part of the Imperial System.

According to the Queen Mother for Life, Czarina 1, Barbie LaChoy (Steven Rule), President of the Board of Directors, “Our founders are Steven Rule (aka Barbie LaChoy), Marc Viens and Bill Rolls (aka Fabergé). For about two years, we had talked about founding a court here in Florida, as we are all three from San Francisco and are permanent title holders in the Founding Mother Court of SF.” “While I was attending a Coronation in Boise, Idaho, I was approached by Queen Mother 1 of The Americas, Empress Nicole Murray-Ramirez, the Great. She had been pushing me to start a court in Florida, stating that there were many people calling her wishing to start one, but none had any experience with the Court System. Since I have been involved with The Court System for 30+ years, experienced as a former Emperor, Empress of Alaska and an Empress in San Francisco, she thought I would be the one to follow through. We were fully approved and sanctioned as the Imperial Sun Court of All Florida. In March 2017, we hosted our Adornment, which was attended by Royalty from 10 out of state Courts, and I was crowned Czarina 1 of All Florida. I later invested Marc Viens as Czar 1 of All Florida.”

The Imperial Sun Court of All Florida, established in September 2016, is the 70th regional court that is part of the Imperial System.

22

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The Imperial Sun Court of All Florida. Photo via RaeJean Cox / The Imperial Sun Court of all Florida, Facebook.

The Imperial Sun Court of All Florida is a nonprofit corporation that hosts and participates in events and activities to raise money for other community-based organizations.

One such event was the Coronation Two, “Hollywood Glitz and Glam,” held on Jan. 25 at the beautiful Sonesta in Fort Lauderdale Beach.

According to the Czarina: “The goal of the GALA is to celebrate the current Emperor and Empress [John Walters and Candy Cox] and their reign. The money raised throughout the year will be distributed/awarded to the charities that they selected at the start of their reign,

including TranSocial, SAGE, Pet Project, Compass Center of WPB, Ignite Women Empowerment, Camp Aranu’tiq of Harbor Camps for Transgender Youth and the Bridge Outreach.”

At last year’s coronation, “attended by 22 visiting Courts, I was bestowed the title of Queen Mother for Life and Protector of Florida for Life and Marc Viens was bestowed King Father for Life by Queen Mother of the Americas, Nicole the Great.

We anticipate another great year of representation.”

For more information on the Imperial Sun Court of All Florida visit TheImperialSunCourtFL.org.

Jesse Monteagudo is a freelance writer and journalist. He has been an active member of South Florida's LGBT community for more than four decades and has served in various community organizations.

REAL ESTATE

2020

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BUYING AND SELLING IN SOUTH FLORIDA

Neighborhoods Trends Mortgage and much more

Return of ‘The Game of

Realtors’ Wilton Manors’ buying trends are changing...

Can you keep up?

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2 • SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020

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Gene Billero exudes a quiet confidence and a non-pressure approach to sales, assuring buyers to take their time making decisions about the biggest financial investment in life, while guaranteeing sellers the deals that come to the table are rock solid.

SOLD Gene Billero, Broker genebillero32963@gmail.com SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020 • 3

REAL ESTATE intro

WELCOME TO OUR

SECOND REAL ESTATE ISSUE Pier Angelo

Our first real estate issue was a resounding success and we were asked to do it again. I hope you enjoy viewing the variety of exceptional realtors we showcase in this edition. Take advantage of their expertise right here in your own backyard.

In today’s competitive market selecting the right realtor to work with can be challenging especially if it is your first time.

The professionals featured in this issue pride themselves in listening to their customer’s needs and will do their best to earn your trust with dedication, determination, experience and by staying to the forefront of the industry trends.

Your new Home Sweet Home might be just around the corner.

Happy Hunting.

HOME TRENDS 1 2

3

Stainless steel and luster

have been dominant for years. The next big thing is matte finishes on faucets, appliances and even countertops.

Many homeowners

are embracing smart technology throughout the homes. Not just voice activated lights and thermostats or front door with cameras but toilets that can stay clean and sanitized automatically, refrigerators equipped with cameras so you can see the contents inside, indoor food recyclers that can turn food waste into fertilizers

The National Association of Home Builders

states buyers are now looking for smaller homes with flexible floor plans, energy-efficient appliances and plenty of storage space.

4 • SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020

The clean and trendy appeal of stainless steel kitchen decor. Photo via Pexels.

Coral Ridge Country Club

Mid-Century

Masterpiece

2716 NE 37th Dr., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 Museum-quality, to-the-studs renovation of this mid-century modern residence. Marvel at the 13 ft. cathedral exposed Dade County Pine wood-beamed ceilings and polished terrazzo floors throughout. No expense has been spared. Your custom mahogany wood kitchen is perfectly appointed with a Wolf gas range and Signature Series Kitchen-Aid appliances. It’s orientation in the home makes it the perfect gathering spot when entertaining. The split bedroom plan positions the spacious master suite across the home from the other sleeping quarters. The master is complimented by two custom bathrooms. One bath boasts a spa-styled soaking tub and shower, the other features a seamless shower. Both master baths are completed with floating vanities. Step from your master bedroom via impact glass slider onto an over-sized covered patio adjoining the coral rock paver deck of your resort-style pool. LED lighting and a soothing water feature compliment the pool. Outdoor evening entertaining is highlighted by custom landscape lighting of the tropical foliage and lawns of Zoysia grass. All new plumbing, electrical, impact windows and roof.

An over-sized 2-car garage with extensive storage and a polished concrete floor finish off this true signature series estate home.

Robert Geary MacKilligan Realtor®

954.234.8759 rgmsell@aol.com

Peter A. Catalfu Realtor®

305.610.3376

peter.catalfu.realtor@gmail.com

Coral Ridge Country Club 3 Bed/3 Bath $1,300,000 ©2020 Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

901 E Las Olas Blvd #101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020 • 5

East Wilton Manors

Mid-Century

On the Middle River

Saturday Open House

12:00 to 3:00 p.m.

1529 NE 28th Dr., Wilton Manors, FL 33334 Live the luxury waterfront lifestyle in this estate home in East Wilton Manors. This Mid Century Modern home has nearly 1,900 square feet and is completely renovated from top to bottom! The chef’s kitchen is complete with KitchenAid appliances, custom quartz counter tops and mosaic back splash. Family and dining rooms have high volume ceilings. Entertain by the fireplace. Enjoy pool parties with your diving pool surrounded by marble pavers. Dock your vessel at your private river-front dock. Newly designed master suite boasts built in custom wardrobes and views of the pool and Middle River. Relax in your spa styled master bath. Laundry room and a bonus storage room are perfectly positioned for the possibilities to convert the garage to your third bedroom. Truly an incomparable residence!

East Wilton Manors Waterfront 2 Bed/2 Bath $899,000

©2020 Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

6 • SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020

Robert Geary MacKilligan Realtor®

954.234.8759 rgmsell@aol.com

Peter A. Catalfu Realtor®

305.610.3376

peter.catalfu.realtor@gmail.com

901 E Las Olas Blvd #101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

REAL ESTATE odds and ends

REAL ESTATE odds and ends Photo via PxFuel.

Too Much

Empathy?

Reverse Mortgages

Photo via PxFuel.

Pier Angelo Pier Angelo

Some buyers act interested in a home out of concern for the realtor’s feeling.

Don’t. It’s better to be truthful with your agent, this way they fully understand what to look for.

Geared toward seniors, reverse mortgages are gaining steam. It is a loan offered to people over the age of 62 that enables the borrowers to convert part of the equity in their homes to cash.

SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020 • 7

REAL ESTATE interest

‘Game of Realtors’ Revisited Lamenting Fragmentation James Oaksun

1

A short while ago, I wrote a fun column about real estate brokers’ (and agents’) market share in Wilton Manors, Florida — keyed to the iconic HBO series “Game of Thrones.”

Truth be told, I could have chosen just about any city in South Florida. The observations and lessons would have been just as valid.

Now, with the passage of time, we have had a couple of new brokerage companies and franchises enter the WilMa market space. New agents get licensed daily.

Has anything changed? And what does it mean for people looking to buy and sell, and for the agents and brokers working to become part of that process?

First, look at Chart One. It took a fair bit of manipulation to create, but it shows the market shares of all companies/ brokerages with respect to all sales of single-family homes, condos, and townhouses in Wilton Manors in the last year. (I’ve included both the listing

company/brokerage, and the selling company/brokerage, as usually these are two different organizations. Restricting to “just listing” or “just selling” does not materially affect the result.)

Academic experts in business strategy and competition, such as Michael Porter of Harvard Business School, generally define a “fragmented market” as one in which the aggregate market share of the top four firms is less than 40 percent. As you can see, Wilton Manors real estate meets that textbook definition.

The top four brokerages/companies comprise 30 percent of the 2019 sales market. More than 200 separate brokerages had at least one sale in WilMa in 2019 (representing either a buyer or a seller). The median number of sales for a

particular broker, was one.

No, I’m not going to “name names.” The market leaders know who they are, and what their market shares are relative to the whole.

They can use that information (or not) in their marketing as they see fit.

Of course that degree of fragmentation persists to a greater degree if you extend it down to the individual agent level. There, the top four agents had 9 percent of the market (not just listings; representing buyers and sellers). More than 400 separate agents were involved in representing a WilMa buyer or seller in 2019.

As was the case with brokers, the median number of sales per agent, was one.

So, what does it all mean?

Whether as broker or agent, there are only three sustainable and sensible strategies for succeeding in a fragmented market — two of which apply solely to corporate entities.

First would be consolidation — growth through acquisition. Persuade other brokers

to join forces with you — under your corporate banner.

Second would be to become the low cost provider — compete on price.

The third — applicable to both agents and brokers — would be subject matter expertise through building and defending a market niche.

This could be a particular neighborhood within a city, or type of home, for example. It could also be a demographic or psychographic niche — clients in a certain age group, perhaps.

First time buyers. International customers.

The niche most agents appear to use, is that of themselves and their personal services as the brand. This can work, though from the perspective of strategy it usually works only for a time, and can be outflanked.

And for the customer — those who are buying and selling homes? Why should they care? Well, this fragmentation has existed since long before I arrived I the scene

As was the case with brokers, the median number of sales per agent, was one.

Photo via Adobe.

8 • SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020

REAL ESTATE interest

REAL ESTATE odds and ends Photo via Adobe.

The State of the

here in South Florida. Its persistence is somewhat amazing to me.

In such a fragmented competitive field, the question of who is the “best” agent or company becomes both highly subjective and difficult to assess. The best people, the best broker?

That well could be someone you have never heard of who is stifled among a lot of noise.

If I had to make a prediction that would be of most relevance to the customer, it would be that in the near future we will see two things occur.

First, I believe the degree of competition is so immense here that there will be downward pressure on commission rates. Without possessing a meaningful, sustainable competitive advantage, a service provider will eventually become viewed as a generic commodity. Value,

yes. But at a lower cost to the end user.

The other thing will be some sort of new product or new means of delivering the service. Frankly, I’m surprised this hasn’t happened yet. Inevitably, the product offering will be redesigned or reconfigured in a way that will provide a large first-mover advantage to the creator. Everyone else will then be playing catchup.

Customers will vastly benefit. But many brokers and agents will become casualties on the corporate battlefield.

Stay tuned.

The best people, the best broker?

That well could be someone you have never heard of who is stifled among a lot of noise.

Market Pier Angelo

As we move in 2020 South Florida is at the forefront of a surge in home values that leads the nation. It’s the opposite of what was going on 10 years ago, when home values were plunging.

James Oaksun, Florida’s Real Estate Geek(SM), is Broker-Owner of New Realty Concepts in Fort Lauderdale. In addition to having degrees from Dartmouth and Cornell, he is a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI).

2

Asher 917-797-8957 SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020 • 9

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SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020 • 11

REAL ESTATE odds and ends

Photo via The White House, Flickr.

NO ONE WANTS TO BLAME

MAR-A-LAGO Pier Angelo

Real Estate sales have never been better in Palm Beach — except for a cluster of 10 mansions within a half-mile of the president’s private club. Brokers say it’s just a coincidence.

Price range? From $5.495 mil to $15 mil.

REAL ESTATE odds and ends

What to do when you find the

RIGHT house Pier Angelo

Do not celebrate, do not reveal your excitement, watch what you say because it can turn on you in negotiations.

Do a second, a third, a fourth showing before writing a contract. After that you can start celebrating and when you finally move in don’t’ forget to change the locks!

12 • SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020

Photo via PxFuel.

REAL ESTATE odds and ends

Second Opinion Ha

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H n d y ma Ennd y m E

Wilton manors handymen Wilton manors handymen

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Sellers tend to overvalue their own homes. Meet with two or three different realtors before you list the house, and make sure the one you pick is also an expert in your area.

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Pier Angelo

Photo via PxFuel.

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REAL ESTATE odds and ends

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your buyers reliable renovation experts.

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SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020 • 13

REAL ESTATE selling

Don Todorich LUXURY & HISTORIC R E A L E S TAT E S P E C I A L I S T

#198

RANKED AMONG TOP 250 AGENTS IN FLORIDA

2%

ELITE TIER OF NRT’S 50,000

Three Ways to

Prepare to Sell Your House Piero Angelo

AGENTS NATIONWIDE

43

TRANSACTIONS CLOSED IN THE LAST YEAR

Photo via Adobe.

According to Realtor.com, spring is the busiest and best season to sell a home so get it ready for that “Open House” by:

Featured Property

1. IMPROVE CURB APPEAL

Unique Lake Worth Corner Loft 1 0 8 L A K E AV E , 2 0 6

2BR | 2BA | 2,100SF | $399K

Address the exterior of the house. A study of homes from Clemson University found that the value of homes with upgraded landscapes increased by 6 to 7 percent.

2. REMOVE INTERIOR CLUTTER

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The Appraisal Institute suggests homeowners clear clutter out of their homes prior to appraisers visit and before open houses.

3. ELIMINATE ODORS

Let Don bring you the award-winning, top-dollar success he’s achieved for countless others – call today for a free analysis of your property’s value.

m 561.373.1791 don.todorich@corcoran.com Equal Housing Opportunity. The Corcoran Group is a licensed real estate broker. All information furnished regarding property for sale or rent or regarding financing is from sources deemed reliable, but Corcoran makes no warranty or representation as to the accuracy thereof. All property information is presented subject to errors, omissions, price changes, changed property conditions, and withdrawal of the property from the market, without notice. Source: The Wall Street Journal, REAL Trends, June 2019 © Copyright 2019 Dow Jones & Company. All Rights Reserved.

14 • SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020

We grow accustomed to odors that might be circulating in our homes. Pet odor might not be as noticeable to the residents as it is to guests and prospective buyers. This time of the year it’s easier to open windows and let fresh air circulate. Hire a professional cleaning service prior to an open house.

REAL ESTATE home sweet home Public domain image.

The New Home Piero Angelo

At first you fall in love with the newness of it all, amazed that this belongs to you then over the years the walls become weathered, the wood splinters here and there, and you start to love the house not so much because of all its perfection, but rather for its imperfections.

You get to know all the nooks and crannies. How to slightly pull the door to avoid getting the key stuck in the lock.

Which of the floorboards flex slightly when one steps on them or exactly how to open the wardrobe doors without them creaking.

These are the little secrets that make it your home.

We’re looking forward to having you join us

on February 18th at 2:00 p.m.

“THE FRENCH HORN COLLECTIVE” LIVE IN CONCERT at the John Knox Village Centre

Please call today at 954-871-2929 to reserve your seat.

e c n a r F a l Vive

Band leader Vincent Raffard unites an international collective of talented musicians to bring a unique concert experience.

The quartet will perform a fusion of Gypsy Jazz, Traditional Jazz, French Standards, Hot Swing and original compositions.

where possibility

plays

John Knox Village is committed to compliance with all federal, state and local fair housing laws. It is our policy to offer senior living to those that qualify without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, familial status, or handicap. The employees of John Knox Village have a legal obligation to treat each individual in a consistent and equally fair manner. In order to assist you with your decision on your new home, we are providing a list of guidelines used to qualify residents for tenancy in our community. Please note that this is our current rental/ownership criteria; nothing contained in these requirements shall constitute a guarantee or representation by John Knox Village that all residents and occupants currently residing at the community have met these requirements. There may be residents and occupants that resided at the community prior to these requirements going into effect. Additionally, our ability to verify whether these requirements have been met is limited to the information we receive from various credit and screening services used.

SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020 • 15

REAL ESTATE odds and ends

REAL ESTATE neighborhood

FIVE WAYS TO

GET TO KNOW A NEW NEIGHBORHOOD Pier Angelo

Photo via Adobe.

Millennials Now

Zero In on Housing

Photo via Adobe.

Pier Angelo

37% of homebuyers are the 20- and 30- something according to The National Association of Realtors.

1. WALK AND DRIVE AROUND Look for shopping centers, parks, dog parks, places of interest. Use Walkscore. com to find places nearby your new home. Walk your dog often, they are great icebreakers with new neighbors. Or jump on your bicycle and leisurely pedal around.

2. THROW A SIMPLE HOUSEWARMING PARTY It doesn’t have to be a lavish affair, just long enough engage in some conversation and introduce yourself.

3. CHECK OUT COMMUNITY EVENTS They are often posted in print and distributed through a local newspaper or magazine, also available on municipal websites. Find out where the locals go and join them.

16 • SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020

4. GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NEW COMMUNITY Find an organization you like and join as a volunteer or attend a local house of worship.

5. TRY RESTAURANTS IN YOUR AREA An app such as OpenTable can help you find hidden gems.

SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020 • 17

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20 • SFGN’s Real Estate Issue // February 2020

2.5.2020 •

43

lifestyle two guys and a dog

Characteristics of Snowy Owl Elders Brian McNaught

T

here is an order of gay male elders called The Parliament of Snowy Owls. It has come to be as the response of the Universe to the epidemic of loneliness and selfdestructiveness among many aging gay men.

Stories are told of depression, and fear, made numb by alcohol, drugs, and risky sexual behavior. Some of it is anger about pain-filled, failing bodies, but it’s also fear of having no purpose, no identity, and of dying alone. It is scary and sad to witness, and it’s not nature’s intention.

The name “Snowy Owl Elder” came into being to distinguish those older gay men who are worthy role models, as well as sources of wise counsel for peers seeking comfort and direction.

Every gay male over age 65 is an elder, but, regrettably, not everyone can be called an Elder in this circle. There are defining characteristics of Snowy Owl Elders. Chief among them are the love and celebration of one’s gender, one’s sexual orientation, and one’s age.

A gathering of owls is called a “parliament” because owls are traditionally thought to be wise. Ideally, a parliament is therefore made up of wise entities.

So, gay Elders are considered to be wise, prudently thinking, and acting in ways that manifest the awareness they garnered from a long life of experiences, and good choices.

What is looked for in a Snowy Owl Elder is not just a joy in being gay, but also an awareness of, and appreciation for, our history of struggle for equality, an understanding of the importance of coming out, a comfort with the differences of others, and a deep respect and admiration for the courage of people who are openly lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer. If I was to refer a younger person to a Snowy Owl Elder in another part of the country, I would do so confident that the Elder’s maturity and moral compass would protect the younger man from any misconduct.

I seek the company of Snowy Owl Elders in my life because they inspire me with their hunger for personal growth. These men age with grace and gratitude. They are thoughtful, kind, and generous. They are respectful of others, live in moderation, and are committed to the cause of gay liberation.

Many gay men I know are Elders-in-training. They live the ideals of the Snowy Owl Elder, but they’re not yet old enough to be considered an elder. They are “old souls,” but they haven’t yet fully faced the challenges of being in a body that, because of its age, isn’t working as well as it once did, nor have they realized the many great advantages of being older.

It’s a bit like climbing the steps of a fire tower. It’s only when you get to the top platform that you get a full perspective of where you’ve been, where you are, and where others find themselves.

They are respectful of others, live in moderation, and are committed to the cause of gay liberation.

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2.5.2 0 2 0

You hear the word “elder” more and more these days because there are more people 65 and older than ever before. Ten thousand people turn 65 every day in the U.S. The attention of our LGBT community leaders is now focussed on age because of the unanticipated crisis in multiple areas of living, from the debilitating loss of loved ones, to sensitive nursing home care, and safe senior housing. Besides suicide and increased rates of HIV among older gay men, therapists, clergy, and bartenders report pervasive loneliness and depression, and the subsequent dysfunctional behaviors.

The current effort to identify Snowy Owl Elders is driven by our consciousness of the very difficult time many gay men are having with aging. The Universe seeks to both honor those older men whose lives are worthy of emulation, but more importantly secure their help in mentoring those in need.

The designation of Elder carries with it the responsibility of helping others to alter their negative attitudes about growing

old as gay men, and to help manage the many challenges of aging as they occur.

There are no structures, no fees, no annual gatherings in the Parliament. Snowy Owl Elders emerge as role models on their own. They are those who other men admire for their character, not their wealth or status; older gay men who can be trusted with the role of mentor. It’s therefore a title that is community ordained.

Yet, those who live in more isolated circumstances, and who know they fit the description, are also able to name themselves Snowy Owl Elders.

In doing so, though, they accept their call to respond to this very challenging, often isolating and alienating, time of final maturation. Snowy Owl Elders are being summoned by the Universe to make themselves, and their services known.

Growing old may not be for sissies, but aging gay men will get by with a little help from a Snowy Owl Elder sissy friend.

Brian McNaught has been a leading educator on LGBTQ issues globally since 1974. He has made his many books and DVDs available for free at Brian-McNaught.com. The New York Times named him “The Godfather of gay diversity training.”

in memoriam

in memory of Robbie Lee Duguid SFGN Staff

R

obbie Lee Duguid of Fort addition to the team seamless,” said Ed Lauderdale, died Jan. 20. He was 47. Vincent, Commissioner, SFAAA. “He was Duguid was competitive on the field born March 30, 1972 in and loving and caring off “He was Martinsville, VA. the field. Through the last He was preceded in 3 years, I got to know Rob competitive on death by his spouse and pretty well. I will sorely the field and the love of his life Tim miss our midday lunches Aliff. Duguid was very at Rosie’s and our random loving and active but the love LGBT crazy nights of drinking. caring off the softball league, South I will especially miss his Florida amateur Athletic beautiful, smiling face field.”

Association. at the fields on Sunday.

- Ed Vincent “Robbie was one of the The SFAAA family lost Commissioner, SFAAA first people that I met in an amazing member. He Fort Lauderdale. He was took such great pride in already on the Alibi Bombers and was so photographing players and being around welcoming and so sweet and made my everyone at Mills Pond.”

A celebration of his life will be held in Fort Lauderdale at Fred Hunters Funeral Home on February 8 from 4 to 6 p.m.

Robbie’s Facebook photo.

2.5.2020 •

45

spirituality

SouthFloridaGayNews.com

LISTINGS All Souls Episcopal Church 4025 Pine Tree Drive. Miami Beach Sundays at 8am and 10:30am.

305-520-5410 | allsoulsmb.org Congregation Etz Chaim 2038 N. Dixie Hwy (Pride Center Building B), Wilton Manors 954-564-9232 - etzchaimflorida.org RabbiNoahKitty@etzchaimflorida.org Friday Night Shabbat Service 8p.m.

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2.5.2 0 2 0

Fountain of Love Ministries 5481 FL-7, Tamarac, FL 33319 954-486-5959 fountainofloveonline.org Pastor Dallas Walker-Green Worship: Sunday Mornings at 11:00 am Open Heart Meditation Saturdays 3:30 - 5 p.m.

Pride Center - Room #200 www.heartofthemystery.com

Holy Angels Catholic Community 2917 NE 6th Avenue Wilton Manors 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM

St. Nicholas Episcopal Church 1111 E. Sample Road, Pompano Beach 954-942-5887 - stnicholasfl.org office@stnicholasfl.org Sundays 8:00AM & 10:30AM (9:30AM only from Memorial Day through Labor Day)

Christ Lutheran Church 1955 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale (954) 564-7673 - christlutheranfl.org pastordeborah@christlutheranfl.org Worship: Sunday 10:00am

First Congregational United Church of Christ 1415 North K Street, Lake Worth 561-582-6691 - fcclw.org office@lakeworthchurch.org Service Time: Sunday 10:30AM

Church of our Savior, MCC Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 S. Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach. churchofoursaviormcc.org | 561-733-4000 Sunday Service 10AM

United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale 2501 NE 30th Street, Fort Lauderdale (954)563-4271 - uccftl.org revpatrickrogers@gmail.com Service Times: Thursdays 10:30AM (Elliot Hall) & Sundays 10:30AM (Sanctuary)

FAITH & PRIDE spirituality

Laugh, Love, And

Serve

Rev. Mark Andrew Jones, BSG St. Nicholas Episcopal Church

All

Souls’ Epi copal Church

All Are Welcome!

SERVICES SUNDAY AT 8 A.M. & 10:30 A.M.

Souls’ Epi copal All

Church

4025 PINE TREE DRIVE, MIAMI BEACH 305-520-5410

| ALLSOULSMB.ORG

CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR, MCC 2011 S. Federal Highway, Boynton Beach, FL 33435

W

Christ has no body now on earth but yours, No hand but yours, No feet but yours.

Yours are the eyes through which to look out Christ’s compassion to the world; Yours are the feet with which he is to go about doing Good; Yours are the hands with which he is to bless men Now. We at St. Nicholas are fond of saying that we try not to take ourselves too seriously because there is a God and it’s not us; so

SUNDAY SERVICE 10 A.M. we are free to laugh, love, and serve. We do, however, take our baptismal responsibilities very seriously; so we strive to see and serve Christ in others. We do this in a variety of ways. Our Holy Grill mobile food trailer has served over 38,000 hot, spirit-lifting breakfast and dinner meals to the homeless and working poor. Each month our Holy Provisions mobile food bank distributes 20,000 pounds of food (produce, canned goods, frozen meats) from South Dade County to North Palm Beach County, supplying over 40 different feeding programs, benefiting families with children, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities (4,000 people each month).

Through our Senior Farm Stands we make fresh produce available to seniors on fixed incomes so they are not choosing between eating or buying prescription medicine at the end of the month.

These are just some of the ways we lovingly serve. If you would like to devote your hands and feet to God’s work, if you would like to demonstrate by your compassion that heaven is near for those less fortunate, then please join us. We welcome people of all faiths and no faith, as long as you have a caring heart. And, regardless of whether you volunteer, party with us. Tropical Wave (the ensemble of the Gay Men’s Chorus) will appear in concert at St. Nicholas at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 22.

Holy Angels National Catholic Church 2917 NE 6th Ave Wilton Manors, FL 33334 Facebook.com/HolyAngelsFL www.HolyAngelsFL.org

Wherever You Are On God’s LGBTQIA Rainbow, You Are Welcome...

e are in the Season After Epiphany or, as our Roman brothers and sisters say, “Ordinary Time.” To understand this time of year it’s helpful to think of the not so ordinary. We’re not waiting for Christmas, as in Advent. And Christmastide itself has, it seems, long since passed, but it’s not yet Lent and certainly not Easter. We’re in that other 60+ percent of the year. The liturgical color is Green — perhaps best understood as a sign we should focus on growing spiritually and in good character by deepening our reflection on the mystery of the Incarnation — not just about God and divine love becoming embodied in Jesus Christ but also about how we embody Christ for others.

Anglicans and Episcopalians have a thoroughly incarnational theology and, so, are naturally attracted to the view expressed in a poem attributed to Teresa of Avila, a 16th Century Spanish mystic and nun:

“Love without judgement”

Rev. Rick Rhen-Sosbe, Pastor

954-633-2987

561-733-4000

www.ChurchOfOurSaviorMCC.org MCC, Transforming Ourselves as We Transform The World

A home for your spirit.

Mass Schedule: Sabado 6:00 PM misa en español • Sunday 11:00 AM mass in English • All are welcome!

Christ Lutheran Church 1955 East Oakland Park Blvd.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33306 www.christlutheranfl.org

Sunday Service @ 10am Fellowship after Service

Join us for Shabbat service Every Friday night at 8pm Saturday, February 8th

$15 Door includes 7 games Specials 3 cards for $1 Food available for purchase: Hot dogs, drinks, chips Doors open 6:30pm/Play starts 7pm Cash only please

Learn more about our many programs & events www.EtzChaimFlorida.org

Congregation Etz Chaim

2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, on the Pride Center campus For more information: www.EtzChaimFlorida.org or 954-564-9232 2.5.2020 •

47

lifestyle food

No Loose Ends at Thai Me Up Rick Karlin

Thai Me Up 2389 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors 954-202-0000 I usually give a place a few weeks after it opens to iron things out before I go and do a full-fledged review. Thai Me Up is a perfect example why. Early reports on the restaurant taking over the space formerly occupied by Galanga weren’t good.

Many complained that the food was over-priced, the portions skimpy and the service ranged from inefficient to surly. Our experience on a recent visit was contrary to most of those complaints. The food could have arrived at the table in a timelier manner, there were major gaps between when some of our party were served their entrée while others sat waiting. Otherwise it was a very positive experience.

We were dining early and easily found parking spaces in Thai Me Up’s small lot. Even if the lot is full, there is street parking along the north side of the property and a city lot less than a block away. Our party of five was greeted warmly and shown to a table inside (there is also a large, if spartan, patio). The dining room isn’t large, but the soaring ceiling gives the feeling of spaciousness. Looking at the menu did provide a bit of sticker shock; everything on the house specialties section is well over $25. However, turn a couple of pages and get back to the noodle and rice dishes and you’ll find more reasonably priced fare; noodle dishes average $16 and curries are $14, and most come with a choice of miso or house salad. There is also a vast selection of sushi. Again, the exotic rolls listed on the front half of the menu are far pricier than those listed farther back.

We all began with soup. The miso was rich and fragrant, and the tom ka kai had just the right balance of citrus and coconut, with juicy pieces of chicken studding the bowl. An appetizer of fried gyoza proved

adequate while the Agedashi tofu didn’t have enough of a coating to hold to the bean paste, although the dipping sauce was nice.

Pad Thai with steamed tofu and chicken massaman curry were textbook examples of the dish. Thai Me Up’s menu pays no attention to national boundaries and offers a few dishes that are an eclectic blend of cultures. For example, there are a few Italian dishes on the menu, including a delicious lobster with carbonara and bacon and sweet basil, sprinkled with parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Priced at $30, it is one of the most expensive items on the menu, but worth the indulgence. An item from the house specials promises a rack of BBQ ribs. I was intrigued by the dichotomy of the dish on the menu. I was not disappointed.

It’s not quite a full rack, but since it is country-style ribs and not baby back or spareribs, half a rack is plenty (I ended up taking half home). The teriyaki glaze may not be traditional, but then neither is the side, a yummy egg fried rice!

Service was attentive and friendly, and the atmosphere was nice and relaxing, until it got busier later in the evening, when a party atmosphere arose. Yes — they still offer sake bombs!

the tom ka kai had just the right balance of citrus and coconut, with juicy pieces of chicken studding the bowl.

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Calamari at Thai Me Up. Photo courtesy of Rick Karlin.

Soup at Thai Me Up. Photo courtesy of Rick Karlin.

Thai Me Up is not the only new-ish place in town. Check out some of these places that opened in the past year.

YOT Bar & Kitchen 2015 SW 20th St., Fort Lauderdale 954-953-9000 yotlmc.com

American Icon 911 NE 4th Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-500-4266 americaniconbrewery.com

Bar Rita 1401 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-990-6658 barritaftl.com

Rivertail 305 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale 305-376-3649 rivertailftl.com

Hungry for more?



Visit SFGN.com/FOOD!

Rick Karlin is SFGN’s food editor.

Visit SFGN.com/Food to read his previous reviews. Have a culinary tip to share? Email Rick at RickKarlinFL@gmail.com.

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2.5.2020 •

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SFGNITES

F O R T H E W EE K O F F e b ru a r y 6 , 2 0 2 0 - F e b ru a r y 1 1 , 2 0 2 0 J.W. Arnold

jw@prdconline.com

THU

2/6

Get Me to the Church on Time!

circus The high-flying AirOtic cirque troupe is back will a new, sexier show, through Feb. 14 at the Sunshine Cathedral, 1480 S.W. 9th Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The centerpiece of Logo TV founder Matt Farber’s LGBTcentric Outlandish performance series, AirOtic utilizes a custom-built scaffolding inside the church for their daring and dazzling tricks. All performances at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35 at OutlandishFL.com.

FRI

2/7

concert The South Florida Symphony, under the direction of Maestra Sebrina Maria Alfonso, celebrates the 250th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth at the Broward Center with a performance of the master’s Symphony No. 9, “Choral,” including his famous “Ode to Joy.” The program also includes local favorite Svetlana Smolina in the expressive Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54.

Tickets at BrowardCenter.org.

SAT

2/8

Thursday 2/6

Theater

They’re headed to the altar one more time! “Diego and Drew Say I Do” returns to the Abdo New River Room at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale, tonight through Feb. 16. All the elements for a fabulous gay wedding will there—a delicious Puerto Rican/Southern fusion dinner, dollar dance, crazy in-laws and a diva in drag. Guests even get to sample the wedding cake in this interactive theatrical experience. Tickets are $65 at BrowardCenter.org.

Photo Credit: Ian Ibbetson.

SUN

2/9

MON

2/10

TUE

2/11

television

television

nightlife

concert

Tune in to NBC tonight because drag diva extraordinare RuPaul is hosting Saturday Night Live. We’re hoping for a “Drag Race” skit and the opportunity to see our favorite “not quite ready for prime time” cast members dolled up in drag.

No matter, this show is guaranteed to be over the top as RuPaul werks the studio. Justin Bieber will be the special musical guest. Check local listings for channels and show times.

Last week, millions of viewers around the globe may have tuned in to the Super Bowl (in Miami), but tonight is perhaps the bigger night for LGBT viewers, the Oscars. You’ll want to tune in early for the red carpet action because you can never predict what the stars will wear. We’re betting your favorite bar on Wilton Drive will be showing the telecast. Check local listings for channels and show times.

Head down to the Pub, 2283 Wilton Dr. tonight for an evening of drag fun beginning at 8 p.m. Miss RaeJean Cox is your hostess for the new Stilettos show, featuring Melissa St. John, Velvet Lenore, Verandah Lanai, Candy Cox and more. Then Nicolette takes the stage at 10 p.m. for the Meme Game. Lucky audience members enjoy drink specials all night and could win cash. For more information, go to ThePubWM.com.

Maestro Riccardo Muti conducts the Chicago Symphony in Antonin Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, “From the New World,” written by the Czech composer shortly after moving to America. The program in the Knight Concert Hall at Miami’s Arsht Center also includes Paul Hindemith’s “Mathis der Maler” Symphony and the Overture to “The Flying Dutchman” by Richard Wagner. Tickets start at $50 at ArshtCenter.org.

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2019/2020

I 10th ANNIVERSARY SEASON

presents

Sponsored by

2019/2010 SEASON

JANUARY 31 – FEBRUARY 16

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Subscriptions: 954.468.3280 | Single Tickets 954.462.0222 VERVE CENTRAL & BROWARD CENTER Present

A fantabulous interactive wedding comedy with dinner and dancing!

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Don’t miss the Silver Palm Award Winner for Best Interactive Theatrical Experience.

Ticket includes dinner, dancing, cake and champagne toast!

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Sirius/XM Radio star returns to Parker Playhouse with two intimate evenings of incredible music and hilarious conversations

All Seth Rudetsky shows are at PARKER PLAYHOUSE

TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org

Ticketmaster 954.462.0222 • Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office • Group Sales 954.660.6307 The Broward Center and Parker Playhouse 2019-2020 seasons are presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation

2.5.2020 •

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A foot-stomping, rafter-raising, musical comedy - holy hit! RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN

A&E theater

Thinking Cap Celebrates Decade of Smart Theater J.W. Arnold

A

Jan 16-Feb 16, 2020 Tickets and Flexpasses are available online at www.islandcitystage.org or by calling 954-928-9800

Use promo code “SFGN” for a 10% discount.

Group and non-profit rates available.

All performances at Wilton Theater Factory, Main Stage, 2304 N Dixie HWY, Wilton Manors, FL 33305

s Thinking Cap Theatre (TCT) artistic director Nicole Stodard reflects on the first nine seasons of the nonprofit professional company, gender parity has been one of her proudest accomplishments.

Studies have shown that gender parity and diversity in American theater programming has improved in recent years, but a recent study by the Dramatist Guild found that just three years ago, plays written by women represented only 28.8 percent of works produced by professional companies.

“Gender parity in season play selection has not just been on the list of TCT’s priorities since its founding in 2010,” Stodard said. “It has been at the top of TCT’s priority list.”

Of TCT’s 30 full-length productions, 16 plays were by women, 12 by men and two by transgender playwrights. In announcing the company’s 10 season, Stodard pointed out two of the five productions are by men, while three are by women.

The season opens Feb. 14 with Samuel Beckett’s 1960 contemporary classic, “Happy Days.” The play delivers an offbeat, endearing and thought-provoking study of a day in the life of an aged couple, Winnie and Willy. Award-winning local actors Karen Stephens and Jim Gibbons will star.

“Fefu and Her Friends,” will run April 3 — 19 at TCT’s home, the Vanguard Sanctuary for the Arts in South Fort Lauderdale. This 1977 Off Broadway hit Cuban émigré Maria Irene Fornes holds a monumental place in the history of environmental, site-specific theater that has become popular in recent decades, said Stodard.

Sam Mueller’s “Laced,” Oct. 16 — Nov. 1, is set in a queer bar in Tampa on the eve of the 2020 presidential election. Three young women must come to terms with what it means to be true to themselves in a society that is at once progressive, prejudiced and divided.

“Lovesong” by producer and screenwriter Abi Morgan (“The Iron Lady,” 2011; “The Suffragette,” 2015), will offer audience an emotionally and visually stimulating examination of love — from youthful inception to golden maturity, Nov. 20 — Dec. 6.

Over the past decade, Thinking Cap Theatre’s Nicole Stodard has championed works by women playwrights. Photo credit: Thinking Cap Theatre.

Rounding out the TCT season is “A Wilde Holiday, Oscar Wilde’s Beloved Fairy Tales,” Dec. 19 — 27, and adapted by Stodard and the company’s new managing director, BreeAnna Obst. The Australian comes to South Florida after stints at leading stages in the U.K., U.S. and South Korea.

“I am especially energized about utilizing my background in theater administration and practice to help TCT as it embarks upon its most significant season yet, at a time when [our] mission has proven to be so vitally relevant to our society,” Obst said in press materials announcing the season.

The season will also include “Food for Thought: A New Conversation Series” and the return of two co-productions, “I’m Coming: A Performance Project,” in conjunction with Thou Art Woman, and “She Shorts,” in association with City Theatre of Miami.

Tickets for individual productions in Thinking Cap Theatre’s 10 anniversary season are $35 general admission at ThinkingCapTheatre.org.

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OPEN DIALOGUES:

Stories From the LGBTQ Community Saturday, February 8 - Sunday, May 17, 2020

Opening Reception Saturday, Feb. 8, 2020 5 - 8 pm

Join us for Open Dialogues, a short documentary video produced by the Center and directed by award-winning filmmaker Freddy Rodriguez. Open Dialogues includes an exhibition of artifacts from the Stonewall Museum & Archives and text by author Julie Marie Wade. Get your own original Pride/Ally mini-flag created by artist Nicole Storrs.

Visit ArtandCultureCenter.org for a full schedule of events!

Open Dialogues: Stories From the LGBTQ Community is funded by the following Funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Richard Frisby and Edward Burkhart Fund, Leonard & Sally Robbins Fund, Frederick W. Jaqua Fund, James Bell-Greenbaum Charitable Fund. The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supported in part by its members, admissions, private entities, the City of Hollywood; the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council; the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture; the David and Francie Horvitz Family Foundation; and the Josephine S. Leiser Foundation. We welcome donations from all members of the community who wish to support our work.

1650 Harrison Street Hollywood, FL 33020 954. 921. 3274 ArtAndCultureCenter.org

2.5.2020 •

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Symphony Celebrates Beethoven with Joyous Ode J.W. Arnold

T

he year 2020 abounds with big milestones: the centennial of the ratification of the 19th amendment giving women in the U.S. the right to vote and the founding of the National Football League are two that immediately come to mind.

But, for classical music lovers, there is no bigger celebration this year than composer Ludwig van Beethoven’s 250th birthday.

It’s true that the German master composed symphonies, oratorios and an opera, chamber works and countless concertos and sonatas, but the South Florida Symphony, under the direction of maestra Sebrina Maria Alfonso, is marking the occasion with Beethoven’s most uplifting work, the Symphony No. 9, “Choral,” with its iconic “Ode to Joy.” “It’s powerful, one of those pieces that hits you in the gut and stays there while it’s being performed,” Alfonso said. “When you think about his life, he probably had a venereal disease — as most people did in those days — and by 23 or 24 (years old), he was pretty deaf. The music came from within him. He didn’t really have the chance to hear it at the piano. It’s his being. There was something very emotional and powerful that connects to the masses.”

Joining the symphony will be Neil Nelson, the bass-baritone who wowed audiences with his performance in Gershwin’s “Porgy & Bess” last season, along with soprano

Robyn Lamp, mezzo-soprano Mabel Ledo and tenor Edgar Miguel Abréu, and backed up by the Schola Cantorum of Florida, led by Dr. Patricia Fleitas.

Rounding out the Beethoven concert on Friday, Feb. 7 at the Broward Center will be Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54. Local favorite Svetlana Smolina will make a return appearance to perform one of that composer’s most beautiful works and a natural complement to the vigor of the “Ode to Joy.” The symphonic/choral collaboration will also foreshadow the formation of a new South Florida Symphony Chorus that will be featured on many of the programs during the 2020-21 season.

“We’re building our program and creating new opportunities to bring more people in from the community to work with the symphony,” Alfonso explained. “We’re also hoping to add a children’s chorus, so that sisters, brothers, parents and grandparents — all generations — can experience and enjoy the music.”

She plans performances of Handel’s oratorio “Messiah” during the holiday season, followed by Gustav Holst’s “The Planets” featuring women’s chorus in January, the Mozart Requiem in February and a collaboration with Florida Grand Opera in March.

“This is such an exciting time for everyone at the symphony,” Alfonso concluded.

The South Florida Symphony, under the direction of maestra Sebrina Maria Alfonso, will perform Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, “Choral,” and Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor, Op 54, on Friday, Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets start at $25 at BrowardCenter.org.

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Congregation

Congregation

SAVE THE DATES! The South Florida Israeli-Jewish LGBTQA+ Film Festival All films will be shown at Congregation Etz Chaim, located at the Auditorium; B building at the Pride Center in Wilton Manors, 2038 N. Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, FL 33305.

Each week will provide the audience with a glimpse of Israeli LGBTQ+ life not usually seen.

Some films will have a moderated discussion following the film. This Festival speaks to us as: Jews, as LGBTQA+ people, and as Allies.

February 16, 2020 I’m Fat screens at: 4.45pm

March 8, 2020 Remember Baghdad NOTE: screens at: 2.30pm

February 23, 2020 The Sign for Love screens at: 4.45pm

March 15, 2020 Golden Boys screens at: 4.45pm

English (Arabic/Hebrew scenes w/ subtitles)

Hebrew with English subtitles

Hebrew with English subtitles

Hebrew with English subtitles

March 1, 2020 Family in Transition screens at: 4.45pm

Hebrew with English subtitles

Tickets are $11 each. Entire series of five films is $50. For tickets, film previews, or more information visit:

www.etzchaimflorida.org

Film Festival Sponsored in part by:

Anonymous

BEETHOVEN: Symphony No. 9 with full choir SCHUMANN: Piano Concerto in A Minor featuring Svetlana Smolina

Feb. 7

Broward Center | 7:30 pm.

Feb. 9

“Classical Music Standout of the Season” Miami Herald

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Datebook

Theater

February 5 - february 11

Tucker Berardi

Calendar@SFGN.com

* Denotes New Listing

palm beach county *Evita

January 16 - February 23, 2020 at the The Wick Theatre & Costume Museum, 7901 North Federal Highway Boca Raton, FL 33487. Evita features Broadway star Sean McDermott and American’s Got Talent sensation and Miami resident Daniella Mass in the iconic musical. The Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice mega-hit won multiple Tony Awards including Best Musical 1980 and Best Revival 2012. The Wick Theatre’s production runs through February 23, with 2pm matinee and 7:30pm evening performances. Tickets, $65-$95.

Visit TheWick.org

*Witness For The Prosecution

Feb 27 — Mar 15 at the Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Avenue, Lake Worth, Florida 33460.

Leonard Vole stands accused of murdering a rich widow. The stakes are high with shocking witness testimony, impassioned outbursts from the dock and a young man’s fight to escape the hangman’s noose. Generally regarded as one of Christie’s most accomplished plays, this suspenseful thriller keeps audiences guessing until the very end.Box Office (561) 586-6410 or visit LakeworthPlayhouse.org

*Hamilton

January 28 - February 16 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts,701 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 Hamilton is the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and was the new nation’s first Treasury Secretary. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway, HAMILTON is the story of America then, as told

by America now. Visit kravis.org

broward county *Altar Boyz

Running now through February 16, 2020 at Island City Stage, 2304 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305. Get ready to sing the praises of this off-Broadway musical comedy sensation about a fictitious Christian boy band that sets out to save the world one screaming fan at a time.

Filled with angelic voices, sinfully spectacular

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dancing and plenty of pointed parody, Altar Boyz finds the five-member group finally hitting the big time with their latest concert. But the boys are worried that their pious pop act — filled with songs like “Girl You Make Me Wanna Wait” and “Jesus Called Me On My Cell Phone” — might not go over as well with sophisticated city folk.

Tickers and information at islandcitystage.org

*Groundhog Day The Musical

Through February 16, Slow Burn Theatre Company at Amaturo Theater at The Broward Center for the Performing Arts. 2017’s Olivier Award Winner for Best Musical and critically acclaimed on both the West End and Broadway, Goundhog Day The Musical revels in one man’s journey of self-discovery, day after day. Inspired by the hilarious film starring Bill Murray, Groundhog Day features a book by original coscreenwriter Dan Rubin, and music and lyrics

by Tony Award-winner Tim Minchin (Matilda the Musical). Tickets $49.00 - $65.00 More information at slowburntheatre.org

"Steamworks the Musical" will be showing until Feb. 16 at the Foundry at Wilton Theater Factory.

Image via Ronnie Larsen Presents, Facebook.

*Steamworks the Musical”

Jan. 9 — Feb. 16 at the Foundry at Wilton Theater Factory, 2306 N. Dixie Hwy., Wilton Manors. Now playing in Ft. Lauderdale after a 7 year run in Chicago at the world famous Annoyance Theater — with fun songs and outrageous characters!

This singing and dancing extravaganza tells the hilarious story of a wide-eyed young man who moves to Wilton Manors seeking love … and instead stumbles into a legendary bathhouse, where his mind is blown by the colorful cast of characters who hang out there. Will he meet the man of his dreams? Or will all his hunky hopes disappear in a puff of bathhouse steam? Tickets start at $35 at RonnieLarsen.com.

miami-dade county *Miami Motel Stories North Beach

The Broadmoor Hotel, 7450 Ocean Terrace, Miami Beach. Juggerknot Theatre Company is the producer of the critically acclaimed series Miami Motel Stories,a real-time immersive theatre experience that takes place inside hotel/motel spaces within developing neighborhoods.The critically acclaimed realtime immersive theatre experience telling the history of Miami neighborhoods in motels and hotels. More information and tickets at juggerknottheatrecompany.com

*Ordinary Americans

January 18 — February 16, at GableStage at the Biltmore, 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida 33134.

In the early 1950’s, Gertrude Berg and Phillip Loeb, the pioneering stars of television’s groundbreaking sitcom, The Goldbergs, heroically struggle to save their show, their careers, and their friendship in the face of McCarthyism, antisemitism, and the political climate of the country.

Based on actual events, Ordinary Americans reveals the double-edged sword between speaking out and staying silent.

This is a world premiere play co-produced by Palm Beach Dramaworks. For additional information visit gablestage.org

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On Jan. 25 Armond “Life isn’t about the numbers tweeted his displeasure with [it’s] about the fucking work you Blacks On Boys, a studio do and how much you put in,” “They pay that advertises itself, “Home Rizzo tweeted on Sunday. bottoms way to the best interracial gay Meanwhile, executives for smut!”

Blacks on Boys, or its parent less than tops “They pay bottoms way company Dog Fart, have yet [and their] less than tops [and their] to comment on the matter excuse [is] the site is more publicly. Rizzo told Paper excuse [is] the top dominant,” Armond Magazine he got the studio’s continued. “I don’t give a offer up to $1,000 for a proposed site is more fuck who are you to say that where he would bottom top dominant.” scene a bottom is worth less?” for two well-hung black men.

Rizzo, a petit Mexican The studio first offered between - Armond Rizzo American performer, has $400 to $500 for the scene.

Porn actor passionate adult film fans “I was like, that still makes and amassed more than no fucking sense, because I’m 320K followers on Twitter. He typically plays the one who’s taking two dicks,” he told the a bottom in scenes with his male partners. magazine.

Porn Pulse is a weekly column featuring news and tidbits on the gay porn industry.

Have a tip? Send Hunter Houston an email at PornPulseSFGN@gmail.com.

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Call Haim at 954-398-3676, sidnalll@yahoo.com GREGG’S PAINTING - Interior/Exterior. Free estimates, great rates! Detail-oriented, friendly, reliable, punctual and neat! No job too small. Broward & Palm Beach counties. 617-306-5694 | gmanbenn44@gmail.com

piano

Furnished 1 bed 1 bath apartment - Great Neighborhood, short walk to Wilton Drive. $1300 a month First and Security, 1-year lease. Fully furnished Contact Mike or Lee at 561-254-8125.

WANT TO LEARN HOW TO PLAY THE PIANO? Learn from an experienced teacher. All levels and ages welcome. Learn to play classical, popular, jazz, or show tunes. Visit www.edwinchad.com or call 954826-9555 for more information.

DON’T MISS A

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954.530.4970 now hiring GRAND RESORT AND SPA - The Spa at The Grand Resort is looking for a Licensed Massage Therapist for our day spa. Also looking for a Licensed Full Specialist. Waxing, nails (no fills, acrylic) simply buff or clear coat and a variety of facials. We’ll train you on our products and services. The right therapist and specialists can do well in our spa. We’ve been in business for 18 years and have received many awards. All equipment and materials are provided. We receive guests from the resort we are located in, along with clients from neighboring hotels and guesthouses.

Commission and 100% of your gratuity. 3-4 days available for the right candidates. Email a resume to spa.director@hotmail.com.

notary Mobile Notary Services - affidavits, documents in support of disability claims, wills, medical directives and officiant services. Call 954.804.3854

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Datebook

February 5 - february 11

Community Tucker Berardi

Calendar@SFGN.com

Broward Support Services PFLAG

A support group for parents, family and allies of the LGBT community. Coral Springs: second Thursday of the month at St. Mary Magdalene Episcopal Church, 1400 Riverside Drive in Coral Springs. Fort Lauderdale Meeting: third Tuesday of the month, 1480 SW 9th Ave., Fort Lauderdale. All meetings are 7-9 p.m. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for more information.

SunServe Youth Group

Tuesdays and Thursdays in Fort Lauderdale, Southwest Ranches, Coral Springs and Hollywood. A support group and night of fun for LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and times.

Survivor Support

First and third Wednesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Broward Health Imperial Point Hospital cafeteria, 6401 N. Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. Find support from counselors and peers who have lost loved ones to suicide. Call the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention at 954-384-0344 or visit FISPOnline.org.

broward county *The Artist’s Voice - The Forum

Friday, February 7from 7 PM to 9 PM, New City Players at Art Serve, 1350 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale. Why do artist’s create?

How do they decide what to create? Does the content drive the form or the form drive the content or both? Are all artists activists?

Should they be? This 2020 Forum lets artists lead the way as New City Players continues to celebrate their new residency at ArtServe.

The panel featureslocal arts leaders and practitioners like Darius Daughtry and Phillip Dunlap who will shed light on questions around what it means to be an artist and why it’s so important. This event is free and open to the public. Visit newcityplayers.org

*Parrot Rescue Adoption Event

Saturday, February 8th from 11 AM — 6 PM at Parrot Rescue and Sanctuary of South Florida, 3038 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale. Parrot Rescue’s mission is to take in parrots and birds that have been abused, neglected or who are simply losing their homes, and specializes in special needs parrots as well as hospice birds. Details at southfloridaparrotrescue.com

SafeT Support Group

Every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at SunServe, 2312 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors.

SunServe Mental Health Services & Midway

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Specialty Care Center Presents: SAFE T A weekly drop in group for anyone who identifies as transgender and or gender variant. Visit SunServe.org/SafeT for details.

Nonbinary and Gender Variant Support Group

Every Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. at SunServe, 2312 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors. A group limited to self-identified gender marginalized & gender questioning peoples. Gender marginalized includes cis-women, womxn, femmes, nonbinary, gender non-conforming, genderqueer, agender, trans & gender questioning. Learn more at SunServe.org/ENBY.

palm beach *Paws in the Park

Sunday, February, 9th 11 a.m to 5 p.m. West Palm Beach Waterfront Park, 100 Clematis st, West Palm Beach. Bring the whole family to Paws in the park to celebrate our four legged family members and help support local apotion agencies to find forever homes.

Splash Dogs, Doggie lure tracks by Lucky Dogs and so much more to entertain everyone.

More info at pawsintheparksouthflorida.com

*Chinese New Year

Saturday, February 8 from 12 p.m — 7 p.m. at the Norton Museum of Art, 1450 South Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach. Celebrate the lunar new year with dragon and lion

dances, musical performances, art-making activities, tours of the Chinese Collection, and more. This year’s program features a lecture on Chinese art by Christina Yu Yu, Matsutaro Shoriki Chair, Art of Asia, at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, a performance by Chinese flutist Chen Tao, and fireworks to conclude the program at sundown. Free. Visit norton. org for details.

*Brazilian Carnivale Fundraiser

Thursday, February 20 from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Loft at Congress at 530 NW 77th Street in Boca Raton. Florida Atlantic University’s Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters has announced its first annual Culture, Arts and Society Today Party as a fundraiser for student scholarships. The event will have a Brazilian Carnivale theme with exciting live entertainment and dinner by the bite. Tickets $125. Visit fauf.fau.edu/2020cast for details.

BBC Correspondent Kim Ghattas comes to FAU

Thursday, February 6 at 4 p.m. at the University Theatre on FAU’s Boca Raton Campus. Florida Atlantic University and the Palm Beach Book Festival present BBC Radio Correspondent Kim Ghattas with a lecture and book signing. Tickets $25, visit fauevents. com for more details.

Albino Mbie: Celebrating the Gift of Life

Sunday, February 9at 7 p.m. at the Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. In this concert, Albino Mbie and his band will bring music from his first Album “Mozambican Dance” to pre-3rd album release. Albino Mbie makes music that aims to combine disparate entities into an organic whole while retaining their unique, undiluted flavors — the music of his native Mozambique, coupled with his experiences living in the U.S. and traveling many other places in the world. Tickets at artsgarage.org.

Coffee Clatch at Compass

First Monday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon at Compass, 201 N. Dixie Hwy, Lake Worth. A social group focusing on the mature LGBT+ community in Palm Beach County, providing a relaxed environment for meeting friends, discussing interesting topics, and engaging in community projects. Free to attend, email joekolb@compassglcc.com for details.

miami-dade *Normandy Fountain Fest - A Day of Art & Music

Sunday, February 9 at the Rue Vendome, Miami Beach, FL 33141. Family and petfriendly. Join your neighbors for an all-day Fountain Fest! Let the creative juices flow all day, then dance the night away! 1PM Metroflea Miami’s Artisan Market Begins, 3PM Live Art, 5PM Live Music, Special Musical Guests: Tito Puente Jr., Ellen Patterson, Jimmy Ya’akov-Yisrael Costello, MiMo Musicand Maryel Eppswith DJ LEO! Free. Details at normandyfountain.com

*Coral Gables Art & Mega Festival

Saturday and Sunday, February 8th and 9th from 10 am - 6 pm, Downtown Coral Gables, 355 Alhambra Circle Coral Gables.

5 events in one location, Fine Art - over 200 fine art & craft exhibitors. Miami Kid Fest - face painting, kid art, kid products and services. Coral Gables Home Show - featuring the Art of the Home. Miami Fashion Fest - apparel, jewelry, hats and more. Bo’s Dog & Pet Fest - bring you pet and enjoy. We offer dog training, demos, contest, pet sitting, pet transport, vets and many other products and services for your pet.

Free. Complete details and information at miamieventsandfestivals.com

Arsht Center Farmers Market

Mondays from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Purchase fresh food from local farmers, including fruits, vegetables, meats, prepared foods, as well as chefs, live music, and cooking demonstrations. Tickets $45 to $75. Free.

Visit ArshtCenter.org/en/Visit/Dining.

key west Hot Naked Sundays

Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. at Island House, 1129 Fleming St. in Key West. A pretea pool party. Call 305-294-6284 or visit IslandHouseKeyWest.com.

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