SFGN 01/28/21 V12iss4 by South Florida Gay News

LOCAL NAME GLOBAL COVERAGE JANUARY 28, 2021 VOL. 12 // ISSUE 4

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NEWS HIGHLIGHT

SouthFloridaGayNews.com

BEWARE OF SCAMMERS ONLINE A FAMILIAR SCAM RESURFACES DURING COVID

• 1. 28 .2021

Publisher • Norm Kent Norm.Kent@sfgn.com

Associate Publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com

Art Director • Brendon Lies Artwork@sfgn.com Webmaster • Kimberly Swan Webmaster@sfgn.com Social Media Director • Christiana Lilly Arts/Entertainment Editor • J.W. Arnold JW@prdconline.com Food/Travel Editor • Rick Karlin Gazette News Editor • John McDonald HIV Editor • Sean McShee Senior Photographer • J.R. Davis JRDavis12000@hotmail.com

hen Elliot started chatting with a younger man on Grindr he didn’t think anything of it. Like many chats go on hook-up apps they exchanged photos and got to know one another — virtually. But for Delray Beach resident Elliot, not his real name, this particular chat turned messy. “I’m on Grindr and the next thing I know we’re having a conversation and he’s sending me naked pictures,” Elliot said. “I didn’t send any pictures. After two to three days of doing that, the next thing I know I get a notification that this is a minor.” Apps like Grindr are for adults, but a minor could easily create an account. Photo via Adobe. In this case, as Elliot would discover later, this was no minor, just someone out Sometimes it will be the “father” threatening there looking to make a quick buck off of an to go to police unless you pay up, or will say unsuspecting victim. it’s for therapy. In reality, the hot 18-year-old Local attorney Russell Cormican says is often just an of age person with a computer people who get caught up in the scam are and WiFi, preying on loneliness and fear. often the real victims, and the alleged “minor” Elliot’s lawyer tracked down the alleged is the one committing a crime. “family detective,” and like “It’s extortion. Buying their most of the scam artists, they LOCAL ATTORNEY silence essentially,” he said. backed off. He had a client who was It usually works like this: RUSSELL targeted, and says if you pay they introduce themselves as CORMICAN SAYS them once, you’ll be on their being over 18 and eventually PEOPLE WHO GET speed dial forever. send you nude pictures, or get “The biggest problem is they you to send naked pictures of CAUGHT UP IN THE do it over and over again,” he yourself. Then they tell you SCAM ARE OFTEN said. “They don’t do it just they’re actually a minor and once. They’ll always be back.” THE REAL VICTIMS, threaten to call the police or Elliot tried to cut the expose the exchanges to your AND THE ALLEGED blackmailer off but the friend list unless you send “MINOR” IS THE scammers persisted. He them hundreds or thousands eventually hired an attorney ONE COMMITTING of dollars. costing him $1,400. Elliot SocialCatfish.com helps A CRIME. didn’t pay any money to the people spot scammers. scammers. The site’s president, David “They told me they were willing to not do McClellan, told SFGN that they’re seeing this anything if I paid money,” Elliot said. a lot. In his case the person said they were a “The scammers out there know we private detective hired by the “minor’s” family. have this extra money. The government is

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John Hayden

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@SFGN

January 28, 2021 • Volume 12 • Issue 4

Senior Feature Columnists

Brian McNaught • Jesse Monteagudo

Correspondents

Dori Zinn • Donald Cavanaugh Christiana Lilly • John McDonald Denise Royal • David-Elijah Nahmod

Contributing Columnists

Pier Angelo • Terri Schlichenmeyer Dana Rudolph • Ric Reily

giving out extra stimulus money and extra unemployment money,” McClellan said. “This is the perfect storm for these scammers because they know people are online more, and so they’re more aggressive.” McClellan said the first red flag is someone trying to get you off of the platform. “Their accounts get deleted a lot, and they also have more control.” Scammers will ask for your phone number. Once they have that, they can harass you indefinitely. “They’re able to manipulate you a little bit more and you have your guard down.” If you think you’re a target for this “Minor Scam,” the first thing you can do is report them to the app. If they escalate with threats of violence, or you feel your personal safety is at risk you should go to police. Once someone tells you they’re under 18, disconnect immediately. McClellan from SocialCatfish.com says simple disconnection will often do the trick. “Walk away. The biggest thing is to walk away. They’re trying to scare you,” he said. “They want to scare you, they want to get money out of you. So if you disconnect and don’t allow them to contact you, they don’t have the opportunity to do that.”

COVER: Photos via Adobe, edited by Brendon Lies.

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NLGJA Journalist of the Year SOUTH FLORIDA GAY NEWS.COM, INC. — — FOUNDED, DECEMBER, 2009 BY PIER GUIDUGLI AND NORM KENT 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. Copyright © 2021 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

1. 28 . 20 21 â&#x20AC;¢

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

BY AVRAHAM FORREST

THE WORLD AROUND

ASIA

CENTRAL AMERICA

MARRIAGE EQUALITY IN TAIWAN MOVES FORWARD

HONDURAS’ CONGRESS MAKES BAN ON GAY MARRIAGE DIFFICULT TO CHANGE

Draft revisions to a marriage law were approved by the Judicial Yuan in Taiwan on Jan. 22, legally recognizing all international same-sex couples, excluding relationships with Chinese partners, the Central News Agency reported. Previously, the law prohibited same-sex marriage in Taiwan if a partner involved was from a country where same-sex unions are illegal, and did not recognize marriages established within a third, seperate country, CNA reported. The draft amendment to Article 46 would allow international same-sex marriage in Taiwan, but in situations involving a national of China, the marriage would be established based on Chinese law, according to a press release by the Judicial Yuan. Gay marriage involving a partner from

Taiwan Pride 2019. Photo credit: Lei Kuang.

China is governed by different laws made for Taiwan-China relations, CNA reported. Next steps include a journey through the Executive Yuan, a joint submission by the two government branches in Taiwan and consideration by the Legislature, CNA reported.

Honduran Congress members voted to amend their constitution on Jan. 21, requiring a three-quarters super-majority to change an article stating Honduran marriages can only occur with a man and woman, Reuters reported. The vote also covered an article giving a fetus the same legal status as a person, Reuters reported. Without the amendment, a two-thirds majority out of 128 members is needed to make changes to the constitution, Reuters reported. The change requires another vote in the unicameral legislature next year, Reuters reported. Eighty-eight legislators voted for the change, with opposition from 28, Reuters reported. Seven abstained from voting. LGBT Hondurans face violence from

Flag of Honduras. Photo via Pixabay.

threats including gangs, national civil police and military police as well as family members and the public, the Human Rights Watch reported.

EUROPE

AFRICA

HUNGARIAN GOVERNMENT ORDERS CONTENT WARNINGS FOR LGBT BOOKS

SOUTH AFRICAN ACTIVIST WINS SAFE SPACE COMMUNITY ICON AWARD

The Hungarian Government ordered Labrisz, a Lesbian group, to attach disclaimers on books containing behavior outside of traditional gender roles, Reuters reported. The action came after Labrisz published an anthology called “Wonderland Is For Everyone,” which contained LGBT stories, Reuters reported. According to a press release from the Government Office of the Capital City of Budapest, consumers were not informed about the book’s content in advance, resulting in a violation of their rights and interests to adequate information. Labrisz and +Háttér Society, an LGBT rights group, plan to sue the government over the order, Reuters reported. “Háttér Society will provide legal representation in the administrative

EXPLORING LGBT NEWS EVENTS ACROSS THE GLOBE

• 1. 28 .2021

“Wonderland Is For Everyone.” Credit: Labrisz.

lawsuit,” according to a statement from the LGBT rights group. “We expect the court to rule that the Consumer Protection Authority acted in a discriminatory and unconstitutional way when stigmatizing works depicting marginalized groups.”

Beverley Palesa Ditsie, a South African activist, won the Safe Space Community Icon Award for 2020, the Kuchu Times reported. The award recognizes LGBT individuals who have made significant differences for the LGBT community. Ditsie, also a filmmaker and speaker, was the first openly gay woman to advocate for LGBT rights at the 4th United Nations World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995, the first time LGBT issues were acknowledged in an address to the UN, according to the Safe Space Alliance website. “Sexuality is an integral, deeply ingrained part of every human being’s life and should not be subject to debate or coercion,” Ditsie said in her 1995 address. Ditsie also helped to coordinate Africa’s first Pride march and is a founding member

Beverley Palesa Ditsie. Photo credit: @bevditsie.

of the Gay and Lesbian Organization of Witwatersrand, according to the website. In addition, The African Queer Youth Initiative won the Safe Space Outstanding Space Award and the Pan Africa ILGA won the Safe Space Community Organisation Award, the Kuchu Times reported.

1. 28 . 20 21 â&#x20AC;¢

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

BY ELLIOT RODRIGUEZ

GAY VINE THE

KEEP UP WITH THE CELEBRITIES IN OUR COMMUNITY

FILM

CELEBRITY

WTF!

HOLY PARDONS! TRUMP SNUBS JOE EXOTIC

‘9-1-1: LONE STAR’ EDITS OUT GAY KISS Fox’s “9-1-1 Lone Star” edited out a kiss between a gay couple, which has fans of this hit series steaming. “A kiss between gay characters TK and Carlos was advertised but didn’t seem to make it to the final cut of the show,” according to Pride.com. The reason behind the cut of the scene is yet to be clarified, Pride.com states that it may as well have been just a time issue. Fans however do not seem to care if it was a time issue or not, like all fans nowadays they took to Twitter to talk about the missing piece of footage. This isn’t the first time the show has done this however, “In 2019 in the original ‘9-1-1’ series, there seemed to be a romantic relationship forming between Buck and Eddie, or so the internet

“9-1-1 Lone Star.” Photo credit: Fox.

believed, before they were confirmed as just good friends,” Pride.com said.

Donald Trump’s last hoorah as president was pardoning a number of people; Lil Wayne and Kodak Black just to name a few. However one big cat-loving Netflix star was not on the list. Joe Exotic, Star of Netflix’s hit series “Tiger King,” was not pardoned by former President Trump. Exotic took to Twitter saying “I was too innocent and too GAY to deserve a Pardon from Trump. I only mattered to Don Jr. when he needed to make a comment about me to boost his social media post. Boy were we all stupid to believe he actually stood for Equal Justice? His corrupt friends all come first.” Exotic and his lawyer were 99% sure that Exotic was going to be pardoned that they booked him a limo. However it seems like they forgot to factor that other

Joe Exotic. Photo via Santa Rose County Jail.

1%, because out of the 73 people Trump pardoned, Exotic’s name was not found. “Exotic is currently serving a 22-year sentence after hiring a hitman to murder his archnemesis, Carole Baskin, along with 17 counts of animal cruelty,” Pride. com noted.

SPORTS

BATTER UP! SPORTS EQUALITY CAMPAIGN ON TIKTOK

TikTok, the video app that has taken the world by storm, is the new home for out LGBT members of the sports world. According to Outsports.com, “The 5-year-old Sports Equality Foundation launched the account in partnership with Outsports on Jan. 11.” Since then, the page has received over 5,200 followers. The most recent TikTok video being an ex-Hamilton Lacrosse player named Sam, which has racked up 301 likes and 2,361 views, in just one day of being put up on the page. TikTok has even been regarded as the “the soul of the LGBTQ

• 1. 28 .2021

internet,” by the Washington Post, Outsports.com noted. This page was started by one of the founders, Soccer captain Couper Gunn. Gunn told Outsports.com, “I have public TikTok and Instagram accounts because I know that as a queer athlete, I can show closeted athletes that not only is it OK to be queer and an athlete … but that the ability to be proud of who you love and how you identify is empowering.” Gunn’s account has sparked many athletes to come forth and speak up on coming out and telling people what they identify as. Making it a safe and

secure place for athletes of the LGBT community to have a voice and speak up. Kirk Walker, UCLA softball coach and co-founder of Sports Equality, told Outsports.com, “This TikTok initiative is so inspiring for several reasons … It came out of the hearts and minds of young LGBTQ athletes and the potential reach to the next generation of LGBTQ sports advocates is tremendous.” TikTok and Sports Equality Foundation continue to make leaps into normalizing athletes of the LGBT community to come out and share their stories.

Photo via Pixabay.

NEWS STATE · BOTULINUM TOXIN A

GAY CHORUS SEARCHES FOR NEW DIRECTOR

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heir voices are strong, their message is powerful, and their vision is clear. For more than a decade, the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) has served our community through song, and now the search is on for a new leader. Artistic director Harold Dioquino has decided to leave after this season of shows. Proving that the GMCSF is an artistically special place to work, Executive Director Mark Kent said dozens of people applied the last time this job was open. “Those who applied the first time stated they were interested because of the impressive quality and growth of our chorus, the great location of South Florida, and the vibrant LGBTQ+ community,” Kent said. Fans of the chorus don’t need to worry about a major shift in style or direction. Kent said the board is looking for someone to step in and help the organization grow and evolve. “We are looking for a talented, visionary leader who can fuel our growth, develop our singers, and program concerts that create ‘Wow!’ for our community,” Kent said. “The ideal candidate also must — and this is essential — have a deep personal passion for our mission: ‘To sing so that LGBTQ+ people can live their truth through quality music experiences that inspire audiences, open minds, change hearts, and affirm our common humanity.’” Maestro Dioquino plans to take some time

“THE EXPERIENCE HAS ENRICHED MY LIFE GREATLY, AND THE MEMBERS HAVE REALLY BEEN LIKE A FAMILY TO ME.” - Harold Dioquino

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF THE GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA

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Harold Dioquino, the artistic director who will be stepping down after this season. Photo via GMCSF.

for himself and continue his work as Music Minister for Church by the Sea in Bay Harbor Islands, but will miss the people he’s directed. “I love this chorus. I have been a part of it since its inception 11 years ago. Serving as artistic director for the past six years has been extremely rewarding for me,” he said. “The experience has enriched my life greatly, and the members have really been like a family to me.” Chairman of the Board of Directors Rick Vaughan says they’ve been preparing for this moment. “Harold began discussing this change with us before the pandemic. We are grateful to him for sharing his talents with us for so many years, making us the highly regarded arts organization we are,” Vaughan said. Kent hopes to have the new artistic director hired by July. The new season starts in September, which isn’t that far off when you’re planning productions on a grand scale. “As you can imagine, putting together a full season of concerts takes months and months of planning,” he said. “This is something we usually do at least six months in advance of our first rehearsal in September.”

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LGBTQIA BITES

BY KENDALL LITTLE

IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT THE G Transgender

BIDEN SCRAPS FORMER TRUMP BAN ON TRANS PEOPLE SERVING IN THE MILITARY Transgender people can now serve in the U.S. military again after President Biden reversed the controversial ban on transgender involvement. “It’s simple: America is safer when everyone qualified to serve can do so openly and with pride,” Biden said in a tweet. Though many people were upset over this reversal, Biden has also been met with an abundance of support. “Thank you, Mr. President. You said you would have our backs, and you do. Grateful for your leadership,” Charlotte Clymer, a lesbian Army veteran said underneath Biden’s tweet. Another proud supporter, Aryl Arthur Shanti said, “That horrible ban was bigoted and cruel. On behalf of trans people everywhere, I thank you for respecting us and

• 1. 28 .2021

Photo via Adobe.

what we can do for our country, whether in the military or in any occupation.” Thanks to President Biden, transgender people can serve in any branch of the U.S. military that they choose and protect their country without limitations.

... HERE’S WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE LGBTQIA COMMUNITY

Bisexual

BLACK BI ACTRESS WILL PLAY BATWOMAN

Javicia Leslie will be the first Black and bisexual actress to play Batwoman. She will play Ryan Wilder, a new character in the DC universe. Wilder finds the Batsuit, tries it on, and finds herself feeling empowered and ready to fight the corrupt system. Leslie said that playing Ryan Wilder is a dream role since she is such a huge fan of DC Comics. “I really thought, when my manager’s number showed up on my phone, ‘Ugh, I guess I didn’t get it.’ When I answered the phone, she said, ‘May I speak to Ryan Wilder?’ And I just lost it. I couldn’t believe it; I started crying. I called my mom, and we cried together,” Leslie said in an interview with NBC News. Leslie also commented on how important it was to truly portray Batwoman as Black.

Javicia Leslie. Photo via Facebook.

“To create an Afro was very important, because it was like, ‘OK, if we’re going to do this, let’s do this. If we’re gonna have a Black Batwoman, let’s have a sistah,’” she said. There have been some critics of the show’s decision to cast a queer Black woman, but Leslie simply shrugs them off. “This isn’t for me; this is for all of the people that feel underrepresented,” the newest Batwoman said.

LGBTQIA BITES

QuickBooks Bookkeeping

Queer

JOJO SIWA COMES OUT

After essentially making rainbows her brand, it should have been no surprise to see pop sensation JoJo Siwa come out recently. The star tweeted a photo of herself wearing a shirt that said “BEST. GAY. COUSIN. EVER.” on Jan 22. “A WIN FOR THE COMMUNITY! proud of you,” popular makeup artist, Manny MUA said in a reply to the tweet. Gay icon and talk show host, Ellen DeGeneres left a heart under the tweet, showing her support for Siwa. Some parents have expressed their disapproval of Siwa’s coming out, like Stephanie Baldwin. “My daughter has always been a #1 fan but this is not appropriate for her at all. As for us, we will be taking all the clothes, bows and bedroom decor down,” Baldwin said. However, these remarks haven’t stopped Siwa from being her best authentic self. She went live on Instagram recently and couldn’t stop smiling. Though she hasn’t put an official label on her sexuality, she is excited to be part of the LGBT community.

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1. 28 . 20 21 •

NEWS LOCAL

J.R.’s SNAPSHOTS

OF THE

From your life... into our pages! SFGN takes a special look at a community that is finally beginning to embrace the joys of a new year... and a new era.

WEEK Photos by J.R. Davis

ReMax Ken Katsoulis and partner Ken Hill, the owner of Infinity, pose with Reign. Look forward to Reign’s performance on Saturday, Feb. 6.

Husbands Eddie Romero and Gordon Forik, two men about town!

Rosie’s manager Peter Kiplinger with Cliff Mulcahy, Rosie’s owner.

• 1. 28.2021

Wilton Manors Commissioner Chris Caputo, partner Chris Fernandes with WMEG President Peter Jackson at Art Walk Wilton Manors.

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LGBT LAWMAKER WANTS TO END FLORIDA’S CANNABIS PROHIBITION

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ill lawmakers decide the fate of marijuana in Florida? Representative Carlos Guillermo Smith certainly hopes so. Florida’s first LGBT Latinx legislator filed a bill last week that seeks to bring cannabis out into the sunshine. “The need to end Florida’s prohibition of responsible adult use of cannabis is long overdue,” said Smith, in a press release dated Jan. 22. Smith’s Availability of Marijuana for Adult Use bill would authorize people ages 21 and older to possess and deliver specified amounts of marijuana products. The Orlando Democrat is framing his argument as a liberty and free-market issue. “This bill creates a sensible bipartisan framework for legislation that can earn the support needed to pass the Florida legislature,” Smith said. “It doesn’t include everything I’d like to see, but it’s the fresh start Floridians deserve to finally move past the draconian cannabis prohibition era.” Sen. Jeff Brandes (R-St. Petersburg) filed a companion bill in the Senate. The bills would create license categories, ban use in public spaces, allow individuals to petition the courts for resentencing and expungement, allow contracting and wholesaling by growers, and preserve home-rule for counties and municipalities.

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“We should give adult Floridians the freedom to make their own choices when it comes to cannabis,” said Brandes, in a press release. The effort to legalize cannabis has the support of Nikki Fried, Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services and U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz, a Republican from the state’s conservative panhandle region. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, however, has stated that legalizing recreational marijuana will not happen on his watch. “Not while I’m governor,” DeSantis said during a 2019 interview, noting marijuana’s alleged detrimental effects on the maturity of young people. The Controlled Substances Act of 1970 made the use and possession of cannabis in the United States for any purpose illegal under federal law. Currently 35 states, including Florida, have legalized medical use while 15 states and the District of Columbia have legalized recreational use. Last November, a Gallup poll showed 68% of Americans support legalizing marijuana — an all-time high for the psychoactive drug that is derived from plants and goes by many names such as weed, pot, herb, grass, bud, ganja, Mary Jane, etc.

1. 28 . 20 21 •

NEWS NATIONAL

FLORIDA LGBT GROUPS HOPEFUL AND READY FOR

A BIDEN ADMINISTRATION … BUT THEY’RE DOUBTFUL MUCH PROGRESS WILL BE MADE IN FLORIDA Steve Rothaus Special to SFGN

ow that Democrats again control the legislative and executive branches of the federal government, South Florida LGBT political activists are readying their wishlists — and hoping to make gains in Tallahassee, as well.

Orlando Gonzales, executive director of SAVE LGBT. Photo credit: Orlando Gonzales, via Facebook.

• 1. 28.2021

At the top of many lists: Passing the to include sexual orientation and gender national Equality Act, which “would provide identity or expression in the Florida Civil consistent and explicit anti-discrimination Rights Act and the Florida Fair Housing Act,” protections for LGBT people across key areas Hoch said. of life, including employment, housing, “All those years since, there has not been credit, education, public spaces and services, a hearing in the House. In 2007, there was federally funded programs, and jury service,” a hearing that passed in the Florida Senate according to the Human Rights Campaign Commerce and Tourism Committee, but website. that was only covering sexual orientation. The Equality Act would amend federal The important thing was that it had strong civil rights laws, including the Civil Rights bipartisan support thanks to Sens. Jeff Act of 1964, “to explicitly Atwater, the Republican from include sexual orientation and North Palm Beach, and Ted gender identity as protected Deutch, the Democrat from “WE NEED TO characteristics,” HRC says. Boca Raton. That died in BE PREPARED President Joe Biden has committee and it was the last TO ADVOCATE pledged to make enactment of time there was a vote to move it BEING AGAINST The Equality Act a priority of forward.” ALLOWING RELIGION his first 100 days in office. (Atwater resigned from TO BE USED TO “He did make a campaign the Senate in 2017 to become promise to do that and we’re vice president for Strategic DISCRIMINATE going to hold him to his Initiatives and CFO at Florida AGAINST LGBT promise,” said attorney Rand Atlantic University; Deutch PEOPLE.” Hoch, president and founder of became a U.S. congressman - Orlando Gonzales the Palm Beach County Human in 2010 and represents parts EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF Rights Council. of Broward and Palm Beach SAVE LGBT “The priority is to get a counties.) nationally passed law,” Hoch Even if The Equality Act continued. “Then, it won’t make a difference becomes federal law, Hoch and others say if you live in Mississippi, New York City they will continue trying to update Florida or West Hollywood. You’ll have the same civil rights protections. The state’s regular protections.” two-month legislative session begins March Hoch, who founded PBCHRC in 1988 2. and four years later became Florida’s first “For the upcoming cycle, the most openly gay judge, says he and other activists pressing topic is to look at the bills that have tried for years to similarly amend the will be filed under the guise of religious Sunshine State’s civil rights laws. freedom,” said Orlando Gonzales, executive “We’ve been trying since 2007 to get director of SAVE LGBT. “Over the last couple hearings in both the Florida House of of legislative cycles, we started to see religion Representatives and the Senate for a bill used for the basis of discrimination. We need

NEWS NATIONAL to be prepared to advocate being against legislation, but we’re also encouraged by allowing religion to be used to discriminate some appointments for leadership by Senate against LGBT people.” President [Wilton] Simpson, with more proFor much of the past decade, groups LGBTQ champions appointed as committee including SAVE, PBCHRC and Equality chairs in any time in recent memory.” Florida have unsuccessfully lobbied Florida’s Also, last year three out Democrats won Legislature to pass employment, housing and legislative races, which Maurer describes as public accommodations laws protecting LGBT “unprecedented representation.” people. Last June, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled • Shevrin Jones, a representative and 6-3 that Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, first openly LGBT Black person in the which specifically protects American workers 160-member Florida Legislature, is now “because of sex,” also protects a state senator. gay and transgender people. “THE SUPREME “In every state across the • State Rep. Carlos COURT WAS A country, it is now unlawful to fire Guillermo Smith of Orlando, someone just for being LGBTQ,” Equality Florida’s Central WATERSHED RULING the ACLU announced June 15, Florida outreach director, FOR THE LGBTQ 2020. “Other types of anti-LGBTQ won re-election. COMMUNITY, BUT workplace discrimination, like WE STILL FEEL THAT harassment and failure to hire, • Michele Rayner, a Black CODIFYING THOSE are also illegal. In addition, state queer woman from Pinellas PROTECTIONS or local protections still apply.” County joins Smith in the IN FLORIDA LAW The ACLU believes the House. Supreme Court decision “also REMAINS ESSENTIAL.” prohibits sex discrimination in Another priority in - Jon Harris Maurer housing, healthcare, education 2021, according to Maurer: EQUALITY FLORIDA’S POLICY DIRECTOR and credit,” but does not “protect “Continuing to educate the LGBTQ people in some important public on the dangerous and areas of life, such as in businesses open to the fraudulent so-called conversion therapy public, and federally funded programs.” practices.” On his first day as president, Joe Biden on In November, a three-judge panel of the Jan. 20 signed a presidential order reinforcing 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 that the federal government must comply with that Palm Beach County and City of Boca Title VII and not discriminate on the basis of Raton bans on conversion therapy violate the sexual orientation or gender identity. First Amendment. The ruling, tilted by two Still, it’s important that Congress pass the Trump judicial appointees, affects Florida, Equality Act and that Florida LGBT activists Alabama and Georgia. continue lobbying for statewide protections, Palm Beach County and Boca Raton — with said Jon Harris Maurer, Equality Florida’s written support from the cities of Miami, policy director. Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale and others — “The Supreme Court was a watershed ruling have requested that the entire 12-member for the LGBTQ community, but we still feel 11th Circuit hear the case. No date has been that codifying those protections in Florida law set and the case could sometime end up at the remains essential,” Maurer said. U.S. Supreme Court. “We know that Florida’s Legislature is a “Right now, it’s in total limbo,” Hoch said. challenging environment for passing LGBTQ

Journalist Steve Rothaus covered LGBT issues for 22 years at the Miami Herald.

The Florida Supreme Court. Photo via Facebook. 1. 28 . 20 21 •

NEWS NATIONAL

DEMOCRAT PROPOSES BLACK NATIONAL ANTHEM TO BECOME AMERICA’S HYMN Kim Swan

HERE ARE THE LYRICS TO “LIFT EVERY VOICE:”

o help heal racial wounds, U.S. Rep. James Clyburn came up with a proposal to make it so “everybody can identify with” the national hymn.

On Jan. 13, Clyburn filed a bill to make “Lift HOW ‘LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING’ Every Voice and Sing,” also known as the Black CAME TO BE national anthem, America’s hymn and give it a special place alongside “The Star-Spangled The song was originally a poem written by Banner,” according to USA Today. James Weldon Johnson, a National Association He told USA Today that the gesture itself for the Advancement of Colored People leader, “would be an act of healing.” in 1899 and made into a song by his brother, “To make it a national hymn, I think, would John. According to the NAACP, it was first be an act of bringing the country together. performed by schoolchildren in 1900 at a It would say to people, ‘You aren’t singing a birthday celebration to honor former President separate national anthem, you are singing the Abraham Lincoln. country’s national hymn,’” said Clyburn, as The song was written during another reported by USA Today. tumultuous period when Blacks were being The proposal comes up at a difficult time: lynched and Jim Crow laws were enforced, said the protests over police killing unarmed Black Howard Robinson, an archivist at Alabama men and women, and COVIDState University and a member 19’s devastating impact on of the steering committee communities of color. for ASU’s National Center for This song is important the Study of Civil Rights and because for decades, it has been African-American Culture, USA sung in Black communities at Today reported. school plays, awards programs, “This song speaks to the graduations and church services, people who suffered through the according to USA Today. Now chastening rod,” Robinson told Clyburn says “it’s time for it to be USA Today. “I think that the song sung in other communities.” is a different look at America, However, some disagree with [and] is a more critical look the proposal. at America while at the same “It’s symbolically notable for time being optimistic about our Black people, but in the larger present and future.” scheme of things, this isn’t going Some advocates agree with to put food on people’s table, it’s Robinson, explaining that not going to increase people’s making this song the national pay,” said Michael Fauntroy, a hymn is a way to acknowledge political scientist at Howard the systemic racism African - James Clyburn University in Washington, Americans face. U.S. REPRESENTATIVE according to USA Today. “There’s no better time than Fauntroy also worries that now,” Robinson told USA Today, some people, particularly African Americans, noting how Black Lives Matter protests over can overstate symbolic victories and substitute racial injustice and inequalities resonated last them for more structural changes, and that he summer in America and around the world. “doesn’t want that to happen here,” USA Today Protesters were chanting the song at some of reported. them. Clyburn argues that it’s more than symbolic A few celebrities performed this song as well: and wants to add weight to it by making it the Alicia Keys, Beyoncé, and Rev. Joseph Lowery national hymn. quoted some of its verses while delivering

“TO MAKE IT A NATIONAL HYMN, I THINK, WOULD BE AN ACT OF BRINGING THE COUNTRY TOGETHER.”

• 1. 28.2021

The sheet music for “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Photo credit: Beth Felice, via Flickr.

the benediction at former President Barack Obama’s inauguration in 2009. According to USA Today, this idea wasn’t last minute: Clyburn said he considered this measure for decades. He had asked his staff to craft the legislation: a four-page bill that cites the song’s history and calls it a “beloved hymn,” according to USA Today. “Ever since I’ve been in the Congress, I’ve been trying to come up with enough nerve to introduce a national hymn,” Clyburn said during a Journal-isms Roundtable, a private discussion for journalists of color, USA Today reported. “I hope I can survive and see it passed.” Clyburn wants to make it clear that he doesn’t intend this to take away from the national anthem, which he sings and remembers the good feeling of playing it on his clarinet a long time ago, according to USA Today. He said that “Lift Every Voice” is known outside Black communities, and that he recalls standing next to former President Bill Clinton who “knew every word of that song” years ago. Robinson, on the other hand, said he would be surprised if the effort was well-received by lawmakers and Americans, USA Today reported. “For the whole nation to embrace this [song] as a way to understand our collective history … that’s a tall order.” Even so, he said that the nation “is in a period of reflection,” which might generate more support of this change, according to USA Today.

Lift ev’ry voice and sing, ’Til Earth and heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of Liberty; Let our rejoicing rise High as the list’ning skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea. Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on ’til victory is won. Stony the road we trod, Bitter the chastening rod, Felt in the days when hope unborn had died; Yet with a steady beat, Have not our weary feet Come to the place for which our fathers sighed? We have come over a way that with tears has been watered, We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered, Out from the gloomy past, ’Til now we stand at last Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast. God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou who has brought us thus far on the way; Thou who has by Thy might Led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray. Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee, Lest, our hearts drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee; Shadowed beneath Thy hand, May we forever stand, True to our God, True to our native land.

THE

GAZETTE VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 2 JANUARY 28, 2021

Wilton Manors & Oakland Park FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/WMGAZETTE

POLICE

Daughter of Oakland Park Hit-and-Run Victim Speaks Out Driver Still at Large

By Christiana Lilly The daughter of a woman killed in a hitand-run accident in Oakland Park last week described her death as “one of the most traumatic experiences in my life.” Ariana Cotto, the daughter of the late Nancy Vazquez, spoke through tears at a press conference hosted by the Broward Sheriff’s Office Friday afternoon in Fort Lauderdale. Vazquez, 59, was walking diagonally across North Andrews Avenue the evening of Jan. 14 when a driver hit her in the far left lane. The driver continued traveling northbound and did not stop after the collision. Based on a fog lamp cover and headlight debris left behind at the scene, BSO detectives were able to determine it was a 2013-2015 black four-door Honda Accord EX. The Oakland Park resident was taken to Broward Health Medical Center and pronounced dead at 11:37 p.m. Police have released a surveillance video of the accident. “She was my everything. She was my

mom, my best friend, my confidante,” Cotto said of Vazquez. “She was a single mom and an amazing one at that. She did her best to provide me with everything I needed to succeed in life.” Cotto is currently attending school in Connecticut, and she said her best memories with her mother included singing in the car and at their church in Brooksville, Florida. One of the last conversations she had with her mother was figuring out a way she could visit her at school. Cotto urged the driver to contact law enforcement. “Just own up to your actions, even if it was a mistake,” she said. BSO Traffic Homicide Det. Sherry Slagle-Grant told the media that the vehicle would have damage to the passenger side of the car, and that had the driver stopped and called police, they probably would have been able to go home that night after providing a statement. “Although the crash was not the fault of

BSO detectives were able to determine it was a 20132015 black four-door Honda Accord EX.

An image of the vehicle, a 2013-2015 black four-door Honda Accord EX, captured in the footage that was released by the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Image via the BSO.

the driver — the pedestrian did walk in the roadway where the driver would not expect

to find a pedestrian — however the driver did flee the scene,” she said. WMG

Anyone with information is asked to contact BSO Traffic Homicide Det. Sherry Slagle-Grant at 954-321-4843. If you’d like to remain anonymous, contact Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477) or online at browardcrimestoppers.org.

www.WMGAZETTE.com

1. 28 . 20 21 •

THE

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Watch Wilton Become Wilton By Chris Caputo

GAZETTE January 28, 2021 • Volume 8 • Issue 2 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943

Publisher • Norm Kent norm.kent@sfgn.com Associate publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley jason.parsley@sfgn.com Webmaster • Kimberly Swan webmaster@sfgn.com

Editorial

Art Director • Brendon Lies artwork@sfgn.com Oakland Park Editor • Christiana Lilly Wilton Manors Editor • John McDonald

Correspondents

Christiana Lilly• 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

Sales Manager • Justin Wyse justin.wyse@sfgn.com Advertising Sales Associate • Edwin Neimann edwin.neimann@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. MEMBER

Photo via the City of Wilton Manors, Facebook.

Unfortunately, the appearance of Wilton Manors hasn’t always lived up to the personality of Wilton Manors. By an always growing number of metrics, we rank highly on the nation’s list of cities of diversity. Our residents and businesses are a case study on the creativity and culture that thrives in a diverse community. As a newly elected public servant, I have received more than a few emails about our city’s public art and cultural #epicfails. From the lack of a public art policy to our less than properly fabulous holiday Christmas tree and Menorah, we haven’t yet shown just how vibrant, creatively alive and thriving our community really is. Like some of the outrageously loud, beautiful and exciting public art installations you’ll now find along

Wilton Drive, I’m here to say “Wilton is finally becoming Wilton!” You don’t have to simply take my word on it, though, because the progress our city made at its Jan. 26, 2020 commission meeting is solid proof. The City of Wilton Manors owes a debt of gratitude to the many individuals and organizations within our colorful community that pushed hard to get the city to take the next right step in truly welcoming public art on city property. At our most recent commission meeting, we passed a formal resolution solidifying our relationship with Wilton Manors Entertainment Group that will result in temporary public art installations in our parks. This important milestone would not have been possible if it weren’t for the ongoing efforts and commitment

As a newly elected public servant, I have received more than a few emails about our city’s public art and cultural #epicfails.

of individuals like Mike Sansevero and organizations like WMEG and Wilton Art. Mike Sansevero, Wilton Art, the Wilton Collective, Wilton Manors Entertainment Group and countless of our residents have pressed hard to beautify our city and create eye-catching art installations — mostly on private property so far. It is my hope that this formal relationship with WMEG will be the first of many. Like most of my fellow Commissioners, I support the creation of a public art or cultural affairs committee whose focus might include the evaluation of public art projects for our city. I hope you will show your support for public art in our city by posting your local art selfies online. While you’re at it, be sure to check out some of our local theatre — I’ll see you there!

• 1. 28.2021

2 •

Associated Press MEMBER

MEMBER

P.S. When can we start talking about making next holiday season’s display in Flippen park the most amazing ever? WMG

— Chris Caputo

WILTON MANORS CITY COMMISSIONER

www.WMGAZETTE.com 16

MEMBER

JANUARY 28, 2021

Wilton Manors City Hall. Photo via the City of Wilton Manors, Facebook.

COMMUNITY

Wilton Manors Police Chief To Retire By John McDonald

Wilton Manors Police Chief Paul O’Connell announced his retirement at Tuesday night’s city commission meeting. O’Connell has directed the city’s police department since 2011. His retirement was announced at the virtual Zoom meeting by city manager Leigh Ann Henderson. O’Connell was thanked for his service by Henderson, Mayor Scott Newton and Commissioner Gary Resnick. Newton quipped O’Connell “beat me to retirement.” Resnick

inquired if the city’s police officers had been vaccinated for COVID-19. “When that door is open we’re ready to go,” said O’Connell. O’Connell admitted he had been vaccinated due to his status as a senior citizen. Resnick suggested Wilton Manors cops travel to Miami-Dade or Palm Beach Counties to seek out vaccinations. In his report to the commission O’Connell said car burglaries are up in the city and

implored residents to lock their vehicles. “We have to do a better job of protecting ourselves and our property,” O’Connell said. “That’s the message we need to push forward.” O’Connell said there have been six arrests in the city this month related to car burglaries. The chief also stated the department is investigating a Dec. 14 attack on an eldery woman which he described as a “vicious, horrible crime.” O’Connell was joined at the meeting by WPD Commander Gary Blocker. No timeline or process for replacing the chief was discussed. Vice Mayor Paul Rolli said since the position reports directly to the city manager it would likely be Henderson’s decision who to hire. When asked for comment about the chief’s retirement, Michael Sansevero, chairman of the city’s community affairs advisory board, simply stated: “It’s time.” WMG

EP O’Connell was thanked for his service by Henderson, Mayor Scott Newton and Commissioner Gary Resnick.

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By Christiana Lilly Law enforcement has released a video of a man wanted in the sexual assault of a woman Monday morning at an Oakland Park spa. The spa is located at 3075 W. Oakland Park Blvd. in an office building between a Chevron gas station and a McDonald’s. According to a report, the woman told the Broward Sheriff’s Office that the man asked about massage services when he arrived at the spa around 4:30 a.m. However, there was a “dispute” over the payment about 20 minutes later. The man grabbed her from behind and pushed her into a back room, where he assaulted her. He then ran off on foot a few minutes later. In the video released by police — the

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woman’s face has been blurred for her privacy — the man has a beard and is wearing a white hat. WMG

If you have information or recognize the person in the video, call BSO SVU Det. Stephanie Simmons at 954-321-4228. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477) or online at browardcrimestoppers.org.

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COMMUNITY

Oakland Park Shows Off Its Inclusivity With New Sign Project By Christiana Lilly The city of Oakland Park is erecting 14 signs around the city announcing to visitors and residents that all are welcome. Each sign reads “Oakland Park welcomes all races, all religions, all genders, all ages, all abilities, all sexual orientations, all countries of origin.” “It really reflects our pledge as a city and community to really stand together as one community and welcome everyone,” Oakland Park Mayor Jane Bolin said. “For me, it’s a physical manifestation of that pledge.” The first sign was unveiled at the City Hall entrance in a ceremony on Jan. 15 to coincide with Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Bolin was joined by most of the Oakland Park City Commission as well as members of the Broward County Commission. An image of the sign has also been included in some employees’ email signatures. The signs were the brainchild of the city’s Diversity Ambassadors, who came together after the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis last May — during an arrest, a police offer knelt on Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes, choking him to death. Last summer, Bolin drafted and passed a “Proclamation Condemning Racism and Reaffirming Commitment to Promoting Racially Equitable Development.” Beyond the signs, Oakland Park appears to practice what it preaches. In December, the Human Rights Campaign awarded the city a 99/100 in its annual Municipal Equality Index report. This is a vast improvement since 2016, when the city scored an 86/100. According to the HRC, Oakland Park is lacking in its non-discrimination laws and benefits to LGBTQ city employees. However, it got perfect scores in municipal services,

Elijah Manley. Photo via Facebook.

Queer Black Activist Drops Charges In Wilton Manors Attack By John McDonald

The first sign was unveiled at the City Hall entrance in a ceremony on Jan. 15 to coincide with Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

law enforcement, and leadership on LGBTQ equality. “I would like to be 100,” Bolin laughed. “There is a [really] big difference between 99 and 100. For me, it’s an excellent reflection of who we are as a city, including our staff and our values but I think we want to strive for 100.” When asked why the city wanted to be so proactive after Floyd’s murder, Bolin said the city can’t pretend it doesn’t have its problems. “We can’t just pretend, ‘Oh everything is the greatest in Oakland Park, we don’t have any problems, we don’t need to worry about this,’” she said. “To not respond i think would have been irresponsible of us.” WMG

It was quite a year for Elijah Manley. could get the individual anger management Manley campaigned for the Florida House of and substance abuse treatment.” Manley campaigned under the Bernie Representatives, challenging incumbent Rep. Sanders wing of the Democratic Bobby DuBose for the District party and is practicing the 94 seat. socialist’s ideology when The 22-year-old eventually it comes to jail and prison lost to DuBose in the sentences. Democratic primary, but “Being behind bars isn’t received nearly 9,000 votes likely to change his behavior for a 30% showing. towards others or fix any of his Campaigning during a problems,” Manley said. pandemic is not easy and The Florida House campaign Manley — who identifies was Manley’s third campaign as queer, Black and Jewish for public office. Manley’s — also had to deal with a campaign for Broward school frightening encounter while board — following the mass canvassing one day in Wilton shooting at Marjory Stoneman Manors. Manley was attacked Douglas High School in by what police described as a Parkland — received 43,009 foul-mouthed and inebriated - Elijah Manley votes and drew the attention of man as they delivered door safety and education advocates. hangers in an apartment “I supported him very complex. Manley told SFGN they have decided to strongly when he did that,” said Kathleen M. Bonczyk, Esq., of the Workplace Violence drop charges against the local resident. “I have decided not to file any charges with Prevention Institute. “Elijah understands the State Attorney’s Office,” Manley said. “I’ll what needs to be done to prevent tragedies.” be following up with their office to see if we WMG

www.WMGAZETTE.com 18

• 1. 28.2021

4 •

JANUARY 28, 2021

“Being behind bars isn’t likely to change his behavior towards others or fix any of his problems.”

column PA L M B E A C H PALM BEACH COUNTY STRENGTHENS EQUAL EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE

Lowers Employee Threshold Christiana Lilly IN A SPEEDY VOTE, THE PALM BEACH COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS UNANIMOUSLY AMENDED ITS EQUAL EMPLOYMENT ORDINANCE. The ordinance now reads that small businesses with five or fewer employees are exempt from the ordinance, as opposed to the 15 it had previously. “It’s important to note that there was no opposition on this item, that this community stands fast in making sure that we protect the rights of all of our citizens in Palm Beach County,” Commissioner Gregg K. Weiss said during the Jan. 12 meeting. “We’re just making a further statement of where we stand as a county.” The campaign to lower the number of employees in the ordinance was spearheaded by the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council. Dubbed the Fifteen to Five Campaign, the initiative began in the summer — currently, Broward, MiamiDade, Orange and Pinellas Counties have lowered their ordinances to at least four or five people working in a business. With assistance from the PBCHRC, the city of West Palm Beach amended its own equal opportunity ordinance in August. Rand Hoch, the founder and president of the PBCHRC, explained that the original ordinance was enacted in the ‘60s to protect family-run businesses that wanted to keep employees in the family, hiring their children, cousins, uncles and aunts to help run the business. However, calls have been made to make the number fewer as these sorts of businesses are fewer in number.

DUBBED THE FIFTEEN TO FIVE CAMPAIGN, THE INITIATIVE BEGAN IN THE SUMMER — CURRENTLY, BROWARD, MIAMI-DADE, ORANGE AND PINELLAS COUNTIES HAVE LOWERED THEIR ORDINANCES TO AT LEAST FOUR OR FIVE PEOPLE WORKING IN A BUSINESS.

Rand Hoch, founder and president of the PBCHRC. Photo via the PBCHRC.

“There are very few calls I get with five [employees] or less, but I have received calls over the years for businesses that have maybe 10 or 12 people that I would have to say ‘I really can’t do anything for you because your employer is not covered by the law,’” Hoch said. When PBCHRC asked the Palm Beach County commissioners to look into changing the ordinance, the staff at the county’s Office of Equal Opportunity communicated with local business community members for their input. Hoch said there were no objections. But the ordinance goes beyond sexual orientation. In an email blast to subscribers last year, PBCHRC wrote that they have received “hundreds of complaints of employment discrimination from LGBTQ people, people of color, immigrants, other minorities, and women, who worked at small businesses. Unfortunately, there was little we could do to help.” “It is encouraging that in these challenging times, our county commissioners and small business owners are on the same page and agree that job applicants and employees should be considered on their ability to do their jobs, regardless of their race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and other characteristics that have nothing to do with job performance,” Hoch said. PBCHRC was founded in 1980 and has helped enact more than 140 laws and policies protecting employees and people from discrimination. They are the oldest independent and nonpartisan LGBT group in the state.

1. 28 . 20 21 •

NEWS STATE

WEEKLY TRACKING OF COVID-19 IN SOUTH FLORIDA Sean McShee

CUMULATIVE KNOWN COVID-19 CASES IN THREE SOUTH FLORIDA Cumulative Known COVID-19COUNTIES: Cases in Three South Florida Counties: JANUARY 19 THROUGH JANUARY 25 January 19 through January 25

Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 cases from 1/19 to 1/25 Palm Beach 4.3%, Broward 4.1%, and Miami Dade 3.7% 360,831

358,801

357,038

354,704

352,405

350,252

347,965

and

1/19

1/20

1/21

SFGN has been there for you through the good and bad...

102,968

102,367

101,831

1/22

Palm Beach

167,025

166,058

165,045

101,019

100,208

99,379

98,692

163,896

162,720

161,624

160,514

1/23

1/24

Broward

1/25

Miami-Dade Source Fl DOH Dashboard

Source: Florida DOH Dashboard.

CUMULATIVE KNOWN COVID-19 DEATHS IN Cumulative THREE SOUTH FLORIDA COUNTIES: Cumulative Known COVID-19 Deaths Known COVID-19 Cases in in Three South Florida Counties: Three South Counties: JANUARY 19Florida THROUGH JANUARY 25 January 19 through January January 19 through January 25 25

Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 fromto1/19 Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 casesdeaths from 1/19 1/25to 1/25 Beach Broward and Miami PalmPalm Beach 4.3%,3.1%, Broward 4.1%,2.8%, and Miami DadeDade 3.7% 2.7%

AND WE’RE STILL HERE FOR YOU NOW.

2,059

1,990 160,514

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• 1. 28.2021

2,061 1,998

161,624

1/191/19

2,066 162,720

2,004

1/201/20

Palm Beach

1/211/21

2,093 2,018

2,083 163,896

165,045

2,011

101,019

100,208

99,379

98,692

352,405

350,252

347,965

1/221/22

Palm Beach Broward Broward

2,098 166,058 2,034

102,367

101,831

1/231/23

360,831

358,801

357,038

354,704

4,747

4,730

4,703

4,678

4,644

4,630

4,622

1/24 1/24

2,123

167,025

2,045

102,968

1/25 1/25

Miami Dade Miami-Dade Source Fl DOH Dashboard Source Fl DOH Dashboard

Source: Florida DOH Dashboard.

NEWS NATIONAL

SMART RIDE RAISES $700,000 Jason Parsley

he Smart Ride’s two-day 165-mile bike race from Miami to Key West may have been canceled, but the fundraising never stopped. This year’s event raised over $700,000. That number, while dramatically less than last year’s $1.4 million, is still seen as quite an achievement considering the challenges. The organization had hoped to raise $500,000, so they beat their goal. “We had to reimagine everything, the need to provide the agencies we benefit and ultimately the individuals needing services remained great, NOT doing an event was out of the question,” Smart Ride Founder Glen Weinzimer said in a press release. This year riders were asked to still participate but in a socially distanced way. A few riders still did the Miami to Key West by themselves, while some participants chose to do stationary biking and others spent the

Photo via SMART Ride, Facebook.

weekend cleaning the beach for 165 minutes. According to a press release the organization is hoping the 2021 event will go on as planned November 19 and 20. Beneficiaries this year included Miracle of Love; Metro Wellness & Community Centers; Compass; Broward House; Pridelines; and AIDS Help. The Smart Ride is the largest HIV/AIDS ride in the eastern U.S. and second largest in the country. Since its inception in 2003 it has raised more than $12 million.

Visit The SMART Ride website www.thesmartride.org for more information.

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Florida state house representative Carlos Guillermo Smith will be the featured guest next Monday, February 1st, on the Norm Kent Show, which airs weekdays at 4 p.m. EST daily on wwnnradio.com, along with 1470 AM and 95.3 FM on terrestrial radio. A popular Central Florida legislator who used to work with Equality Florida, Smith is one of the primary authors of a 2021 proposed cannabis legalization bill. A 40 year old Democrat first elected in 2016, Smith explained “It’s the right thing to do, and it’s the right time. Either the state can preemptively regulate cannabis in 2021 with planned legislation that is fair to everyone, or we will have the citizens pass a constitutional amendment in 2022 mandating what we should have done anyway,” Smith stated. Smith serves as a member of the Florida House of Representatives from District 49, which covers the University of Central Florida. Smith first gained national media attention for his advocacy concerning

the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting, while serving as the governmental affairs spokesperson for Equality Florida. For his work, he was included in ‘Out Magazine’s’ Out 100 as one of the “Survivors and Heroes of Pulse.”

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CONVICTIONS

Publisher's Editorial

THE REPUBLICAN PARTY SUPPORTS A RACIST CULT Photo via Pixabay.

Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

braham Lincoln may have represented boy may have cried Wolf once too often, the Republican Party in 1862. Not leaving us saddled with one damn tragedy of anymore. He is lucky to be sitting incalculable proportions. down. He should be crying. Impeachment, the 2021 version is not His party has been infiltrated by white just credible, but morally and absolutely supremacists, neo Nazis, and delusional necessary. Unfortunately, it is just as dead QAnon supporters. They revel and bathe in on arrival. The Republican lot of United the slime. States senators have no conscience. They are The Democrats, however, have been cowards to the core. looking at foreign enemies and Russian Despite a treasonous and conspiratorial hackers, not the fury and attempt to thwart our flames burning on our government from peacefully THE MAN WHO shores. Too bad, the cartoon transitioning power, these Pogo was right all along morally myopic monsters REFUSED TO when he said, ‘we have met are looking the other way. the enemy, and they is us.’ Armed insurgents, PROMISE HE Give those forefathers verbally induced and WOULD PEACEFULLY some credit. They sure gleefully encouraged by knew what they were doing a president, killing police SURRENDER THE when they carved out officers, and wanting to REINS OF POWER those constitutional oaths, hang the Vice President, demanding our future are simply not enough. This DID NOT DO SO. leaders guard the American losing lot of Republicans THE RED THAT people against ALL enemies, won’t be convicting Pretty foreign and domestic. Boy, dispatched though he NOW REPRESENTS A year ago, Republican is now to Palm Beach golf REPUBLICANS IS senators scoffed at the courses. Patriots they are attempt to end Trump’s not. BLOOD RED. presidency based on the Mark down that you Ukrainian letter Democrats lived through a memorable found morally offensive. I understood their chapter in American history. But you can objections. close the book. We know the ending. In their mind, the measures were a step The second vote onimpeachment will win above Monica Lewinsky. It may not have been too small a majority to reach the threshold a perfect letter, but as impeachability goes, it of conviction, though television will play was more partisan passion than principled out the drama. The Republicans of 2021 will violations of presidential mandates. have the blood of dead police officers on their Consequently, last year’s impeachment trial hands forever, but conviction and courage is was dead on arrival in the US Senate with not in their DNA. some cause. As unconstitutional and unconscionable Today, though, this is a horse of a different as the President’s acts were, he will not be color. There are no excuses, none. But the judicially beheaded. He will get to say it was

• 1. 28.2021

a partisan hoax. Let us be grateful that it will be from the Ninth tee at Mara Lago instead of on Air Force One. The former president who deceived the American public at every turn, savaged a free press, sabotaged regulatory agencies, and corrupted established institutions of government plays on, alone and abandoned, anonymous and unwanted. For now The man who refused to promise he would peacefully surrender the reins of power did not do so. The red that now represents Republicans is blood red. In most places around this world, our former president’s head would be hanging in the public square. Instead, because we live in America,we are burying the police officers

defending the very buildings he was charged with protecting. Because we live in America, courts will allow the insurrectionists to bond out of jail while they await their trial. While the former president golfs. So it goes. The impeachment trial which begins next week is a moral necessity. Don’t confuse it with Monica Lewinsky or the Ukrainian barber. This time the boy did not cry Wolf. This time the house was on fire. The President burnt it down. The week of February 8 will deliver yet another escape for the dictator who would have been. But for now, breathe. The sequel has been canceled.

CONVICTIONS

Editorial Cartoon

EDITORIAL CARTOON By Andy Marlette

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CORAL RIDGE VISITED BY

THE TRUMP TRAIN ON JAN. 23, THE TRUMP TRAIN ARRIVED AT CORAL RIDGE MALL, TRUMP’S DEVOUT FOLLOWERS STILL CLAIM THAT THE ELECTION WAS STOLEN. MANY OF THE TRUMP SUPPORTERS KEPT YELLING OUT “WHITE POWER” AND OTHER OBSCENITIES AGAINST BIDEN AND HARRIS.

SFGN Staff

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• 1. 28.2021

DUE TO COVID-19, CLERGY ASK THAT YOU STAY SAFE AT HOME. PLEASE WATCH SERVICES ON FACEBOOK AND/OR ONLINE. FIND DETAILS ON HOW TO WATCH ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGES AND WEBSITES. THANK YOU AND BE WELL!

Shabbat service Friday 8pm on our YouTube channel Congregation Etz Chaim

2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, on the Pride Center campus www.EtzChaimFlorida.org / RSVP HERE: info@etzchaimflorida.org

Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 s. Federal Hwy., Boynton Beach, FL 561-733-4000 www,churchofoursaviormcc.org

SPIRITUALITY

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Until further notice: Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, our worship services are streamed on Facebook Live every Sunday at 10 AM, rather than held at our church property. https://www.facebook.com/ ChurchofOurSaviorMCC. Visit our web site for more details & updates.

Join us for masked, socially distanced in person worship. 11 AM Sundays. Services also LIVE-streamed on Facebook and posted on website for safe at home viewing.

“Love without judgement” Holy Angels National Catholic Church 1436 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors. 33305 Facebook.com/HolyAngelsFL www.HolyAngelsFL.org

954-633-2987

A home for your spirit. Mass Schedule: Sabado 6:00 PM misa en español • Sunday Mass at 11 AM in English • All are welcome!

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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. HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 2917 NE 6th Avenue Wilton Manors 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM

CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR, MCC Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 S. Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach. churchofoursaviormcc.org | 561-733-4000 Sunday Service 10AM TEMPLE BAT YAM 5151 NE 14th Ter Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 954-928-0410 Friday Night & Saturday Morning Streaming Online at templebatyam.org

SFGN is here for you, no matter who — or what — keeps you going. Check out the Spirituality Section each week to stay in touch with your local religious LGBT community. The only requirement? Be yourself.

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A&E FILM

YOU KNOW WHERE TO FIND US... BUT WE MIGHT BE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK.

FIRTH, TUCCI SHINE IN ‘SUPERNOVA’ J.W. Arnold

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• 1. 28.2021

’ll never forget the time a straight colleague warned me, “Be careful what you wish for because someday you’ll just be another disenfranchised white guy,” clearly speaking to the LGBT community’s battle for civil rights. Much has changed in the 20 years since his declaration: marriage equality, protections against housing and employment discrimination, transgender rights and general acceptance by society. While Hollywood has always been an ally on the journey, mainstream depictions of LGBT characters on the big screen have largely clung to tragic narratives about the AIDS crisis, forbidden love on remote mountaintops, and stereotypes of the sassy gay sidekick. Films like “Love, Simon” and “Call Me by Your Name” were a revelation only recently. Well, we’re finally just more disenfranchised white guys in Hollywood’s eyes now. “Supernova,” a British drama opening in local theaters this weekend and streaming soon, is the story of a longtime gay couple taking a road trip across England in their clunky camper van. Sam (Colin Firth) is a musician, while Tusker (Stanley Tucci) is a successful novelist. Their leisurely journey through the bucolic hills and valleys is anything but, as Tusker has been diagnosed with early onset dementia. They are actually on a slow-motion race to reunite with family and friends and collect their own memories together before the disease overtakes Tusker. Both Harry Macqueen’s screenplay and direction are restrained and sentimental, but never melancholy or sappy, even after Sam discovers Tusker has a shocking plan to wrest control of his fate. In fact, it’s the powerful, yet always understated performances by Firth and Tucci that emphasize the banal universality of their circumstances and undying love. And here’s my point, first made by that friend decades ago: Sam and Tusker could have been any couple — gay, straight, trans, pan. Without tweaking hardly a word, Firth and Tucci could have been replaced by

Stanley Tucci, left, and Colin Firth star in “Supernova,” a film about a gay couple’s English road trip. Credit: StudioCanal.

Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep or any other combination of A-list actors and the message would have been the same. That said, this film simply couldn’t be recast. Firth and Tucci (both straight, incidentally) have an onscreen chemistry that would be hard to recreate by just any actors. They bicker like an old married couple and there’s a vulnerability when they attempt to cuddle in the cramped RV or Sam’s childhood bed. They are both already shortlisted for a string of industry and critics’ awards. If you follow Hollywood gossip, it’s interesting to note their studio is promoting Firth for the best actor and Tucci for best supporting actor categories, no doubt hoping they don’t cancel each other out in the final tallies. I might argue the opposite approach, but ultimately, like any real married couple, they are team who have accomplished this feat together. “Supernova” will be a contender for best picture, screenplay and direction trophies, too, but it also deserves a special celebration from our community because it is Hollywood’s most sincere affirmation that LGBT couples are just like everybody else. Finally.

Check local listings for theater and show times.

A&E NEWS

BROADWAY LOSES A LEGEND Bob Avian (1937 — 2021)

J.W. Arnold

f the theaters along New York City’s Great White Way had been open last week, their lights would have been dimmed in memory of Bob Avian, a Broadway legend who passed away Jan. 21 of a heart attack. For more than 60 years, Avian made history on the Broadway stage. Born Robert Avedisian in Manhattan to Armenian immigrants, Avian realized at an early age that he loved to dance. In his candid, witty and sometimes surprising memoir, “Dancing Man: A Broadway Choreographer’s Journey,” written with Tom Santopietro and released last year, Avian recalled, “When my parents went out, I would push back the furniture, clear an open space, turn on the record player and leap around the apartment. Boys weren’t supposed to dance, especially not in Armenian culture, but I loved music, and I especially loved the freedom I found in dancing.” Even though his mother tacitly approved, Avian didn’t receive formal dance training until he enrolled at Boston University. His first break as a professional dancer was an international tour of “West Side Story” in 1960. “I loved the adventure of traveling around the world, but the tour would prove even more momentous for one all-encompassing reason: During rehearsals in New York, I met a fellow castmate, Michael Bennett, a 17-year-old high school dropout marked for greatness,” he wrote. As Bennett’s career took off, Avian saw his star shine, also. Over the next 25 years, they collaborated on “Promises, Promises,” “Company” and “Follies,” before sharing a Tony Award for “A Chorus Line,” the show that reinvented the Broadway musical in the 1970s. After Bennett’s death of AIDS in 1987, Avian set his sights on London’s West End and agreed to a long collaboration with producer Cameron Mackintosh on “Follies,” “Martin Guerre,” “The Witches of Eastwick,” “Miss Saigon” and “Sunset Boulevard.” Avian never completely retired, although he relished stays in Fort Lauderdale with his husband of 36 years, Peter Pileski. His last touring production of “Miss Saigon,” completed a run in West Palm Beach last

Tony-winning gay Broadway choreographer, director and producer Bob Avian passed away last week at his Fort Lauderdale home. Credit: Courtesy Peter Pileski.

year and was headed for Miami’s Arsht Center before COVID-19 forced a premature cancellation. Over the course of his long and successful career, Avian worked with the biggest names in theater, including Barbra Streisand, Mary Martin, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Carol Burnett, Jennifer Holliday, Patti LuPone, Elaine Stritch and Glenn Close. In an interview with SFGN last year, he openly reminisced and lamented the changes he witnessed since taking his first bow at the Winter Garden Theater. Musical theater has become a billiondollar business. Producers are doing more with less — smaller casts, more intimate shows — and a rap musical is now the hottest ticket around. And then there are the shows like an unorthodox, reimagined revival of “West Side Story” that had just opened, but he promised to save his opinions on that show for another time. There won’t be another memoir, but the legend of Bob Avian will live on Broadway for generations to come.

Limited Socially Distanced Seating so get your tickets early.

Tara, a young, lonely woman, drops out of college unbeknownst to her mother and becomes a surrogate for Gabriel and Elliott, a well-established gay couple. Suddenly, Tara finds herself carrying not only their future child, but a terrible secret as well.