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Begins in center
february 6, 2019 vol. 10 // issue 6
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Henry Vidal’s Death
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Pride FTL Month Kicks Off • Page 12 Black HIV Awareness Day Here • Page 16 Manors Renovations Clobbers Businesses • WMG Page 4 SouthFloridaGayNews
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Only One Super Bowl AD Showed LGBT-Inclusive Content Nick Adkins
Andy Warhol. Photo credit: Burger King.
O
ut of Super Bowl LIII’s 56 commercials this year, the only ad with an LGBT presence was Burger King’s spot, “#EatLikeAndy,” featuring Andy Warhol eating a Whopper for almost a minute. “It doesn’t come out,” the famous artist behind the pop art movement commented when he had trouble with his ketchup bottle. Warhol, who died in 1987 at the age of 58, identified as gay. The clip comes from a longer 4-minute video of Warhol from the Danish director Jorgen Leth’s 1982 film, “66 Scenes from America.” “When we tried to get the rights from the foundation, they loved the idea because they felt it was true to him and something he would have done, in a way,” the executive creative director of the agency behind the
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February 6, 2019 • Volume 10 • Issue 6
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commercial, Juan Javier Peña Plaza, told Adweek. “It’s about getting everyone to experience art.” This year’s Super Bowl had 6 more ads than last year’s, which was led in LGBT representation by Coca Cola’s “The Wonder of Us” spot. The 60 second ad featured a lesbian couple and at one point the voiceover said, “There’s MEMBER
a Coke for he – and she – and her – and me – and them.” On “and them” the camera shows a woman with a rainbow-colored shirt collar on. “Them” is a pronoun that’s often used to refer to people who are non-binary or genderqueer. The year before in 2017 Lady Gaga, who is bisexual, was the first LGBT headliner for the Super Bowl halftime show.
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Cover 1: Henry Vidal. Submitted photo. Cover 2: The Miss Pride Palm Beach Competition. Submitted photo.
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National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping Printing by Sun Coast Press
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2.06.2019 •
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LGBTQIA bites
B
Bisexual
I
By Cameren Boatner
Intersex
Study shows asexuality is widely misunderstood
Bella Thorne lost roles after coming out as bisexual Bella Thorne. Photo via Facebook.
Bella Thorne, 21, came out in 2016 after posting a picture of her kissing a woman on Snapchat. She was met with accepting Tweets from fans. In an interview with Gay Times, she said the acting industry was less accepting. “There were a few places on the acting side that were very negative about it. There was someone who, right after I came out, cancelled my audition. It’s not like anybody comes up to you and says, ‘Well, you’re gay so I’m not going
to hire you’,” she told Gay Times. “But you can just tell by the way that people act differently around you, the way they treat you differently, the way that they look at you or the way that they tiptoe around certain subjects because they’re walking on eggshells. In this business, that behaviour makes it all very obvious.” She also spoke about how no one really understands bisexuality, or her relationship with YouTuber Tana Mongeau and rapper Mod Sun.
Three quarters of people in the U.K. don’t know what asexuality is, according to a Sky Data poll. Sky Data asked U.K. adults whether they were confident in defining asexuality, and only 53 percent said they were confident. But when they were put to the test, 75 percent failed. They either got the question wrong, or didn’t know that asexual people experience a sex drive. Dr. Michael Yates, a psychologist in sexual health said this shows that the
world has some catching up to do. “It shows there is still a lack of understanding of the diversity that exists when it comes to sexuality, we’re getting better, but our society is highly sexualised and the messages we get around sex are pretty constant,” Yates said. “This leads to shame, distress and discomfort for [asexual] people who feel they should be doing something that they are just not biologically driven to do.”
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LGBTQIA bites
T
Transgender
Nevada transgender woman shot by her neighbor Elizabeth Cole. Photo via GoFundMe.
Elizabeth Cole, a 43-year-old transgender woman, was shot in the neck by her neighbor in Henderson, Nevada on January 28. Police arrested Kenneth Lamont Martin in the shooting, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He’s being held on $150,000 bail, facing a charge of attempted murder and a hate crime. “I’ve been offended so many times —
thousands of times, I’ve been offended as a trans person,” she said, according to the Review-Journal. “What would I do if I had the justification to shoot everyone who had offended me?” Cole doesn’t know when or whether the bullet will be taken out of her neck, and at the time, she thought she was supposed to die. She said, “being who you are is worth dying for.”
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2.06.2019 •
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news international
By Cameren Boatner
the world around
Middle east
Europe
Iran hangs man for being gay
Disneyland Paris to hold the first ever official Pride event
A man was publicly executed in Iran last month for being gay, according to Fox News. Richard Grenell, the U.S. ambassador of Germany told Fox News about the public hanging of a 31-year-old man for being gay. “I am committed to a more aggressive coordination with our European allies to make clear that criminalizing homosexuality or publicly hanging someone for being gay is incompatible with the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” he told Fox News. “This is not the first time the Iranian regime has put a gay man to death with the usual outrageous claims of prostitution, kidnapping, or even pedophilia. And it sadly won’t be the last time they do it either.
•
Both Grenell and human rights activists are calling on the European Union to take action against Iran, saying the E.U. has been silent on previous human rights violations.
In June 2019, Disneyland Paris will host “Magical Pride,” Disney’s first ever official Pride event. Though Gay Days has been celebrated at Disney since 1991, Paris is making history with Magical Pride, according to Orlando Weekly. “Considering the way Disney has pretended not to notice the source of the tidal wave of cash flowing their way from the thousands of red-shirted attendees lo these many decades (not to mention from LGBTQ Disney stans the other 364 days of the year), we think it’s pretty cool that Le House du Mouse is stepping up,” Orlando Weekly wrote. Disney’s Gay Days is being moved to August, so fans can attend both Gay Days and Magical Pride. The first unofficial Magical Pride in Paris was in 2014.
Disneyland Paris. Credit: Heather Cowper.
North America
South America
Serial killer confesses to murdering 8 Toronto gay men
Gay congressman who fled Brazil to be replaced by another gay politician
Bruce McArthur, 67, a regular at Toronto’s gay neighborhood bars, pled guilty to eight counts of firstdegree murder. Until January 2018, the neighborhood was told by police that there was no serial killer to be worried about. But on Tuesday, McArthur confessed to the murders of eight gay men living in Church-Wellesley, or Gay Village. Next week, a judge will determine McArthur’s sentence, according to the Washington Post. The case left many wondering how he got away with murder for so long, including the Toronto Star editorial board. “Why did the police seemingly not take the concerns of the LGBTQ community more seriously?” the board wrote in an op-ed. “The Church-Wellesley
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Exploring LGBT News Events Across the Globe
2 . 6.2019
Bruce McArthur. Photo via Facebook.
community had long feared there was a serial killer in their midst and the police denied it. Would police have taken more and swifter action if McArthur’s victims had not been gay or people of color, homeless or addicted to drugs?” Police questioned McArthur in 2013, but found no connection to the men’s deaths, dating from 2010 to 2017.
Jean Wyllys, former Brazilian congressman, fled his country after receiving death threats for being gay. According to CBC, another gay city councillor will take his place. David Miranda, an openly gay Rio de Janeiro politician, said even though he is afraid, he still wants to take the position to represent his community. “Obviously, I’m afraid for my life or what can happen to my family, but in moments like this you have to be brave, even with the fear that becomes courage. People need a voice in Brazil and I know that I can do the job,” Miranda told CBC in an interview. When he takes office, he says he wants to have a dialogue with people in the House about LGBT rights. This comes after the election of homophobic
David Miranda. Credit: Mídia NINJA.
President Jair Bolsonaro, and the discrimination against the community that followed, including killings and anti-gay legislation.
NEWS local
Keynote Speaker Kathy Najimy.
Legacy Award recipient Brian McNaught.
Visibility Award recipient Jazz Jennings.
Preserving History: Stonewall Museum’s Annual Gala at the Ritz Tickets still available for Feb. 22 event
Sophie Siegel
T
he Stonewall Museum National called McNaught the “Godfather of the LGBT Museum and Archives will host their diversity corporate training,” as he has been annual gala Feb. 22 at the Ritz Carlton an advocate for the community for a long on Fort Lauderdale Beach. time. Rudisill said he has been a “friend and “We are thrilled to bring together the partner” to the museum over the years. “His community, some national figures as commitment to the preservation of LGBT well, important people that are history is just beyond belief.” our supporters, both old and Jazz Jennings will receive new to come together to the Visibility award. “It is celebrate,” Chris Rudisill, remarkable, the visibility the executive director of she has given to the trans the museum, said about community.” Jennings the fundraising event. has worked with the What Rudisill means museum’s education by celebrating, is that project, according to this year marks the Rudisill. 50th anniversary of They have another - Chris Rudisill the Stonewall uprising, honorary that they have yet Executive director which “we take our name to announce, but Rudisill said from,” Rudisill said. “We work to they will announce “very soon.” promote understanding through the The event will also feature keynote preservation and sharing of LGBTQ history speaker, actress, and activist, Kathy Nijimy, and culture.” who you may know from the film “Hocus This year they are “changing things up Pocus.” Rudisill called her an “activist and a bit.” Usually, they host their event in ally for the community.” conjunction with a concert at the Broward “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” television Center. This year, they are hosting it “all on star, Carson Kressley, will be a guest presenter their own,” with their own entertainment. at the event. He will present the Legacy award “We want to showcase the diversity in our to McNaught. community,” Rudisill said. “The individuals “There’s never been a more important we picked were really significant for this time than what we see in the world around year.” us that we really have to be vigilant on Some of the important figures attending making sure we protect that history for future are author and advocate, Brian McNaught, generations,” Rudisill said as this event helps who will receive the Legacy award. Rudisill preserve history.
“We want to showcase the diversity in our community.”
The event will be held at the Ritz Carlton at Fort Lauderdale Beach on Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. Tickets are still on sale, visit Stonewall-Museum.org/gala-2019 to purchase. 2.06.2019 •
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NEWS state The Florida Capitol Building. Photo credit: Michael Rivera.
Miami Herald Editorial Board Backs Non-Discrimination Bill Equality Florida opposes it; local groups support it
Jason Parsley
L
ast week the Miami Herald Editorial groups signed their own letter pushing back Board endorsed a bill that would protect against Equality Florida’s opposition and the LGBT community from workplace tactics. discrimination. “Equality Florida attacked both the bill and Normally this would not be newsworthy, SAVE as ‘transphobic,’” the letter reads. “We but the bill has attracted a slew of LGBT strongly feel the claim is not only without opponents, because the legislation leaves merit, but an arrogant effort to speak for out protections in housing and public our community and against our local allies; accommodations. whom have spent years building personal The Miami Herald, while sympathetic and professional relationships with each of to the LGBT activists who oppose this bill, us, building collaborative efforts to uplift nevertheless believe it is a step and gain progress on the issues forward. impacting our community.” “The state’s LGBTQ “We understand the The Miami Herald believes community should Equality Florida’s favored frustration of some in Florida’s LGBTQ community over the bill, the Florida Competitive ponder Gruters’ incremental nature of the Workforce Act, has zero chance hypothetical Florida Inclusive Workforce of passing. question in an Act, an anti-discrimination “The [FIWA] legislation measure that prevents interview about his introduced by Sen. Joe employers from discriminating bill: ‘Do you want Gruters — chairman of the but doesn’t stop businesses Party of Florida — to pass a bill? Or Republican or landlords from refusing is an important step in the right do you want to service to gay and transgender direction. And it actually has people,” the editorial reads. make a point?’” a chance of passing Florida’s “It is, without doubt, a halfconservative legislature,” the - Miami Herald measure.” editorial continues. “Yet moreEditorial comprehensive legislation Equality Florida vehemently […] has no chance of passing opposes the bill, and claims it leaves the transgender community behind. the state House of Representatives this The organization convinced a handful of year. The state’s LGBTQ community should national LGBT rights groups to weigh in on ponder Gruters’ hypothetical question in an the matter last week with a letter reaffirming interview about his bill: ‘Do you want to pass their support for a comprehensive bill that a bill? Or do you want to make a point?’” would protect LGBT people in all three areas – workplace, housing and public Visit SFGN.com/FIWA to read SFGN’s accommodations. extensive coverage of this topic. In response, a handful of local trans rights
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2.06.2019 •
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NEWS local
Pride Fort Lauderdale to Kick Off in High Fashion Rick Karlin
Dorothy, I know we’re not in Kansas anymore!
Misty Eyez.
Kitty Meow.
The four-day Pride Fort Lauderdale celebration just keeps getting more elaborate as new events are added. Now drag queens are not only taking over the Ritz Carlton, but also lip-syncing for their lives in pontoon boats on the river! Meanwhile, Wilton Drive turns into the Yellow Brick Road on Friday, Feb. 22, as the Pride Fort Lauderdale activities move to Wilton Manors for the evening. On Wednesday, Feb. 20, three drag queens, Kitty Meow, Misty Eyez and Flip Flops’ home girl Amanda Austin, each in her own boats, compete for the title: Goddess of the River” challenge. In this outrageous aquatic fundraiser, paddleboarders and kayakers will vote for their favorite performer as the queens perform on pontoon boats at the George English Boat Ramp and Marina, Fort Lauderdale. The competition takes place at 7 p.m., with a 6 p.m. pre-party, and 8 p.m. post-party at Flip Flops. For those attending only the after-party, the suggested donation is $10, with all funds going to Fort Lauderdale Pride. Visit Rabbl eWi thACause.co m / PrideKickOff with tickets. On Friday evening the fun comes to Wilton Manors for “Pride on the Drive.” The celebration kicks off at 6 p.m. as dozens of bars, restaurants and shops roll out the rainbow carpet for a casual celebration in the “gayborhood.” Enjoy drink specials, discounts and live entertainment at participating businesses all night, up and down Wilton Drive. A complete list of participating businesses will be posted at PrideFortLauderdale.org.
Pride Fort Lauderdale teams up with the South Beach Wine & Food Festival for a fabulous drag brunch at the Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale Beach on Saturday, Feb. 23, starting at 11:30 a.m. The highlight of the event will be a tasty performance by Tony Award-winner (for “Kinky Boots”) and the star of FX’s criticallyacclaimed series, “Pose,” Billy Porter. National radio personality Elvis Duran will be the host, along with his fiancé Alex Carr and emcee Shawn Palacious (aka Kitty Meow). Delectable dishes created by local celebrity chefs and performances by the region’s top drag queens will be featured. Tickets are $125 each.
On Friday evening the fun comes to Wilton Manors for “Pride on the Drive.”
Amanda Austin.
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Breaking News: Mayor Dean Trantalis of Fort Lauderdale and Miss Major GriffinGracy, a Stonewall Inn veteran, were named Tuesday night as the Grand Marshalls of Pride Fort Lauderdale’s Parade.
NEWS local
Pride Fort Lauderdale Event Calendar Friday, Feb. 22 Sexy cirque troupe Air-O-Tic at Sunshine Cathedral. This high-flying act offers an LGBT flavor in each mesmerizing performance. (repeats Saturday, Feb. 23, 8 p.m.), Tickets at OutlandishFL.com.
Stonewall National Museum & Archives Gala – 7 p.m. The Stonewall National Museum & Archives marks the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots at its annual gala at the Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale Beach. Actress and activist Kathy Najimy (“Sister Act”) will be the guest speaker for the gala, which also includes a silent auction, dinner and entertainment.
Saturday, Feb. 23 Carnaval Drag & Dine Parties – noon.
The festival gets started early at the many hotels and restaurants along SR A1A (and you can beat the traffic for the parade). Participating businesses will be offering entertainment, drink and food specials all afternoon.
Beach Bear Bash - noon
Music and entertainment will be provided by “My Big Funny Peter,” aka Peter Bisuito, the world’s first gay muscle bear comedian. Hot muscle bear go-go dancers dancing to DJ Herbie James, and more on the Sebastian Beach stage! It’s a casual afternoon party with a cash bar and a food truck. Please note: Beach Bear Weekend and Fort Lauderdale Bear Week are not affiliated with Pride Fort Lauderdale in any way. Events advertised on BeachBearWeekend.com are not organized or sanctioned by Pride Fort Lauderdale. Purchase at your own risk.
Sunday, Feb. 24 Beach Festival – 12 p.m. Celebrate Pride on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Visit exhibitors and food vendors, enjoy music and performances on two stages and stick around for the stunning fireworks show at 7:45 p.m. American Idol’s Ada Vox and Todrick Hall perform live on stage, along with top DJs. More than 50,000 people are expected for the festival. Free admission, $5 donation requested at the gate. OUTshine’s Big Night Out, 7 p.m., The Manor hosts as OUTshine LGBT Film Festival celebrates Hollywood’s biggest night, the Oscars, with a gala watching party at the area’s largest LGBT nightclub. Tickets at OutShineFilm.com. Parking can be difficult and expensive along the beach. There will be free shuttles from Hagen Park and the Brightline station, (but not from the Galleria and Clay Shaw parking lots, as in the past despite what is indicated on the Pride website.). Parking is free until 6 p.m. at the Hagen lot. If you plan to stay for the parade and park in the Hagen lot, make certain to have the remote parking app installed on your phone and note your space number). For more information on all Pride Events, go to www.PrideFortLauderdale.org. For more information on all Pride Events, go to www.PrideFortLauderdale.org.
Billy Porter. Photo via Facebook.
Carnaval Parade – 5:30 p.m. Pride Fort Lauderdale is hosting its first Pride parade this afternoon along scenic SR A1A from Sebastian Beach to Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. This is the first parade ever held on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Get there early as more than 80,000 spectators are expected along the route.
Pride Block Party – 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. After the parade, head to 5th St. and SR A1A and dance the night away while enjoying live performances by your favorite local drag queens, musical acts and internationallyacclaimed DJs.
For more information on all Pride Events, go to PrideFortLauderdale.org. 2.06.2019 •
13
NEWS state
TransSocial. Photo via Facebook.
Local Trans Groups Stand Up to Equality Florida Jason Parsley
A
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coalition of transgender rights groups he local coalition of trans groups though signed a letter last week pushing back believe Equality Florida has crossed the line. against Equality Florida’s aggressive “We encourage Equality Florida to tactics opposing a non-discrimination bill. halt these attacks, cease establishing “Equality Florida attacked both the bill programming competing against established and SAVE as ‘transphobic,’” the advocacy efforts, and, instead, letter reads. “We strongly feel use funding and political “We encourage the claim is not only without capital to support existing, local Equality Florida to organizations and programs,” merit, but an arrogant effort to speak for our community and halt these attacks... the letter continues. against our local allies; whom Signatories on the statement and, instead, have spent years building include Arianna Lint, the use funding and TransLatin@ Coalition, Florida personal and professional relationships with each of us, political capital to Chapter and Arianna’s Center; building collaborative efforts support existing, Camille Lewis, Miami-Dade transgender activist; Jen to uplift and gain progress Laws, Broward transgender on the issues impacting our local organizations and programs.” activist; Morgan Mayfaire and community.” Ashley Mayfaire, TransSocial; The bill in question, the Riley Johnson, RAD Remedy; Florida Workforce Inclusion - Local Trans and Tatiana Williams, Trans Act, would protect LGBT Groups Inclusive Group. people in the workplace, but Laws said they’re looking for leave out housing and public more local groups and activists to sign on to accommodations. Two weeks ago Equality Florida their efforts. Laws can be reached at policy. convinced a handful of national LGBT jen@gmail.com. “We implore Equality Florida to reflect on rights groups to weigh in on the matter with a letter reaffirming their support for the stated mission of fighting for our shared a comprehensive bill that would protect communities rather than attacking our LGBT people in all three areas – workplace, efforts, our allies, and, ultimately, us,” the letter ends with. housing and public accommodations. Visit SFGN.com/FIWA to read SFGN’s extensive coverage of this topic.
NEWS local David Jobin. Photo via Facebook.
Our Fund Foundation Hosts Philanthropy Awards this Saturday SFGN Staff
O
ur Fund Foundation, backed by a host of presenting sponsors is presenting the inaugural SouthFlorida LGBT Philanthropy Awards at Fort Lauderdale’s Tower Club on Saturday, February 9 at 6 p.m. The cocktail reception and awards ceremony will celebrate individuals and families whose generosity of time, talent and resources have had a significant impact on the South Florida’s LGBT community. The first-ever class of South Florida LGBT Philanthropy awardees includes:
will be honored for his many years of passionate dedication to the non-profit. • Next Generation of Philanthropy Award: Chris Caputo. A talented, young and generous leader, Caputo serves as Board Chair of the Pride Center, inspiring his peers to engage with their community as donors and volunteers.
“In its role of promoting LGBT philanthropy in South Florida, Our Fund Foundation is proud to launch this exciting new initiative.”
“In its role of promoting LGBT philanthropy in South Florida, Our Fund Foundation is proud to launch this exciting new initiative,” said David Jobin, • Raising the Bar Award: president and CEO, Our Fund Jim Stepp and Peter Zimmer. Foundation. “We are extremely - David Jobin In addition, the couple will be grateful for the generous President and CEO of Our Fund recognized as South Florida’s support of U.S. Trust and the LGBT Philanthropists of the Tower Club which enables us Year for their thoughtful generosity to to honor these remarkable philanthropists numerous LGBT agencies and causes who have truly helped make South Florida throughout the years. the most livable and energetic community in the country for LGBT people.” • Commitment to a Cause Award: The presenting sponsors of the event Doug Pew. Founder and leader of the are U.S. Trust and Bank of America Private Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, Pew Wealth Management. Tickets to the cocktail reception and awards ceremony are $60 each, but were selling out at press time. For additional information please email ocaballero@our-fund.org or call 954-565-1090.
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NEWS national
Feb. 7 is National
Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Denise Royal
N
ow in its 20th year, National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) is an opportunity to increase HIV education, testing, community involvement, and treatment among black communities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, African Americans make up 12 percent of the U.S. population, but 44 percent of new HIV diagnoses.
The statistics are about the same in messages of the Act Against AIDS, Let’s Stop Florida, where blacks make up only 15 HIV Together campaign. Let’s Stop HIV percent of the state’s Together raises awareness that population, yet comprise we all have a role to play in more than 42 percent of stopping HIV stigma. Florida’s HIV cases diagnosed “As an African American, in 2016. One in 47 black I learned as a child the adults has HIV compared importance of community— to one in 181 Hispanics and our community,” said Lorenzo one in 284 white individuals. Lowe, HIV Prevention Director While blacks are still at Compass. “The culture and disproportionately impacted stories of our elders continue by HIV/AIDS, Florida is to be an unlimited resource making strides. Florida has interwoven with our souls. seen an overall 42 percent We carry each other through decrease in HIV case rates everything! We cannot allow among blacks since 2005, HIV/AIDS to be excluded from - Lorenzo Lowe moving the cause of death the list of challenges we face as HIV Prevention Director from HIV among blacks a community. Unfortunately, at Compass ages 25-44 from 1st to 5th at some point, the disease statewide in 2016. became a secret and those But there is still much work to do. three letters went from being whispered This year’s NBHAAD theme, “Together to not being spoken at all. That is why for Love: Stop HIV Stigma,” focuses on the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is so important for African Americans. This day reminds us to move forward without hesitation in the fight. It encourages us to take charge of who we are and how we want to live,” he said. With early HIV diagnosis, individuals can begin appropriate treatment and care resulting in better health outcomes. Studies show that providing antiretroviral therapy as early as possible after diagnosis improves a patient’s health, and can lead to undetectable viral loads of HIV, which can ultimately reduce transmission. This week, organizations, clinics, and communities across South Florida will commemorate 20 years of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day promotion and engagement. You can find an event near you by visiting, https://gettested.cdc.gov/search_ results.
“As an African American, I learned as a child the importance of community— our community.”
Lorenzo Lowe. Photo via Compass.
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In Miami, on Thursday, Feb. 7, free HIV testing is available as part of “Take the Train, Take the Test!” Tests take place from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the following locations:
• Government Center Metrorail Station: 111 NW 1st Street, Miami, FL 33128 • Culmer Metrorail Station: 701 NW 11th Street, Miami, FL 33136 • Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Metrorail Station: 6205 NW 27thAvenue, Miami, FL 33147 On Wednesday, Feb. 6, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Compass in Lake Worth hosts a Community Education Series. The event includes a discussion aimed at deconstructing the system that keeps black communities disproportionately affected by HIV. It also looks at what can be done
to shift the dynamic going forward. Dinner will be served. Registration is required, but the event is free. Compass is located at 201 North Dixie Highway, Lake Worth 33460. “Compass’ Community Education Series event for NBHAAD will provide an opportunity speak about where the African American community is regarding our responsibility in this fight,” Lowe sid. “We hope to create an open space to voice what we need from each other and our agencies. It’s one of the many reasons we are proud to have Christopher Bates as moderator for this essential event. This event will not just focus on challenges but also the successes within our community. It is the many challenges that we have overcome that make our progression as people historic and this shall be no different.”
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CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
Talk to your healthcare provider about PrEP. PrEP: It’s simple. One pill per day greatly reduces your chances of contracting HIV. Together, we partner with clinics in your area to provide PrEP services.
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To find the nearest clinic in your area visit: CANcommunityhealth.org/locations
2.06.2019 •
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P A L M B E A CH
A New Miss Pride Palm Beach
is Crowned
Katalena Davenport Depree wins this year’s title
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P A L M B E A CH
fe atu re
Kristen Grau
K
atalena Davenport Depree walked into the Lake Worth Playhouse Monday night as one of many drag queens in Palm Beach County. She walked out as the only 2019 Miss Palm Beach Pride. This year’s Miss Palm Beach Pride Pageant featured five glamorous contestants battling for the distinguished title and was hosted by two of the county’s most well known queens — Velvet Lenore and Melissa St. John. Depree didn’t just earn a crown and bouquet — she also earned the role as a Compass Community Center ambassador, where she will be involved with several advocacy events. “I want to make sure everyone in the world fears nothing when it comes to us [the LGBT community],” Depree said during the competition. “What better way to represent Palm Beach than Miss Palm Beach Pride?” The nearly-filled theater got to savor four categories of competition: presentation, evening gown, question and answer, and talent — on top of performances from
Lenore, St. John, Tayanna Love, Midwest All-American Gent 2018 Antonio Edwards and more. This was the event’s fourth anniversary. Depree wasn’t the only winner of the night. Lenore and St. John handed out two awards of their own. They awarded last year’s Miss Palm Beach Pride, Rianna Petrone, the Betty James Trailblazer Award, which is named after one of the first openly lesbian mayors in Palm Beach County. After, the Lake Worth Playhouse won the Miss Palm Beach Pride Service Award. “We were thrilled to learn that we were awarded,” Lake Worth Playhouse Executive Director Stephanie Smith said. “It is important to nurture good relations within the community - it makes us all stronger.” Nearly all of the contestants admitted that it was a nerve-wracking night during the question and answer and portion. But through the jitters, they still managed to spread positive messages to the LGBT community. “I am a young trans woman,” one contestant, Adelaide Queen said. “It’s my place to show the way for other trans women.” Lenore also shared her own insights on what pride means, and paid homage to her own drag community that she said consisted of over 50 people.
“Family is not who you were born to, it’s who you surround yourself with… ” she said. “Nobody should ever tell you who you should be.” Perhaps the most electric category of the three-hour competition was the talent portion. Some contestants and entertainers hopped off the stage and marched up and down the theater aisles; others ditched their footing to woo the judges with backflips and high kicks. On top of their lively performances, their presentation gowns, meant to represent their passions and favorite color, were also powerful odes to pride. Lupita Hollywood sported a shimmering red gown with an attached massive peacock-like set of feathers. Hollywood mentioned later that Compass “helped me to be the person I am today.” Compass will receive a percentage of the event’s earnings — namely for their upcoming events like Palm Beach Pride, Youth Equality Prom and the Stonewall Black and White Ball. There was no shortage of people handing the queens dollar bills for their performances. “It’s not about the money, it’s about the people you make smile,” Lenore joked. “It’s been a journey,” Depree said after her victory. “I feel so overwhelmed… I finally get to make my mark.”
Here are all the category winners from Monday night: • Presentation: Lupita Hollywood • Evening gown: Katalena Davenport Depree • Question and answer: Katalena Davenport Depree and Lupita Hollywood (tie)
“Family is not who you were born to, it’s who you surround yourself with… Nobody should ever tell you who you should be.” - Lenore
• Talent: Katalena Davenport Depree • Second runner up: Lupita Hollywood • First runner up: Adelaide Queen • Miss Palm Beach Pride: Katalena Davenport Depree
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P A L M B E A CH
All Compass Has to Offer HIV support, youth groups and more Claudia Harrison
C
ompass is a community center in Lake Worth specializing in vital services, programs and events for LGBTQ people and our allies. An important part of our focus is bringing people together for a common purpose. Chances are we have a group for you, if you are looking for opportunities to discuss issues important to you in a safe and accepting space, or if you are looking to meet with friends and just chat. Here’s what we have to offer: - Youth group, for kids ages 12-18. Our drop-in center is open outside of school hours, and our youth staff facilitate meetings twice a week, where the group discusses LGBTQ history, share stories to encourage one another, attend cultural events, and hold game nights. It’s an inclusive space for kids who often don’t feel accepted for who they are. Group times are Wednesdays and Fridays from 5-7 PM. - Entourage, for young people who age out of the youth group. Entourage meets on Thursday nights. Participants gather for Netflix and chill nights, talk about relationships and how to have safer sex, and do fun activities such as pumpkin carving at Halloween. Group times are Thursdays from 6-8 PM. - HIV/AIDS support groups, for people living with HIV/AIDS and needing specific assistance. We have a group for men only, one for women, and one held in Spanish.
These are closed groups; to participate, please contact compass@compassglcc. com - PFLAG group, for straight allies of friends and family members who are LGBTQ. Group times are every second Wednesday at 5 PM and every fourth Thursday at 6:30 PM. - Coming Out Group, for those just beginning their journey of living out loud. Group times are every Thursday at 6:30 PM. - PBC Gender Support Group, for transgender people and their supporters. Group times are every Thursday at 7 PM. - Non-binary Support Group, for those who are gender-non-conforming. Group times are every Thursday from 6:30 to 8:00.
- FTM Support Group, specifically for female-to-male transgender individuals. Group times are every first and third Monday at 7 PM. - Bereavement support group, for those experiencing loss. This group meets every other Friday and is facilitated by two volunteer therapists. This is a closed group; please contact Jacque Jamason at Jacque@compassglcc.com if interested in attending. - Coffee Clatch, a gathering of senior LGBT+ members. It’s for coming together and learning about different activities and volunteer opportunities. This group meets the first Monday of every month at 10 AM. Our staff is always interested in hearing from YOU on what you want to see happen at YOUR community center. Contact us at compass@compassglcc.com with your ideas, or for more information on any of the groups mentioned above.
Upcoming Events: - National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day dinner and discussion on Feb. 6 at 6 pm at Compass, 201 N Dixie Highway, Lake Worth.
- 7th Annual Gay Chili Cookoff on Feb. 17 at 12 pm at Penny’s at the Duke, 902 N Dixie Highway, Lantana.
- Lake Worth Street Painting Festival in Downtown Lake Worth, Feb. 23-24.
- Pride Business Alliance Social, Feb. 27, 6 - 8 pm, at Consign and Design Gardens Gallery, 9810 FL A1A Alt, Palm Beach Gardens.
Claudia Harrison is Chief Information Officer at Compass Community Center. You can reach her at claudia@compassglcc.com
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c o lu m n The Sisters of Perpetual Faith seated at the World AIDS Day event hosted by Compass. Photo credit: Compass GLCC, Facebook.
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P A L M B E A CH
Drag Story Time Comes to Lake Worth
Deon C. Jefferson
I
n recent times it seems entirely impossible to find adults reading, much less children.
Compass’ Youth Group is doing their due diligence to decrease those issues in Palm Beach County with its version of Drag Story Time. Hosted at the quaint and eclectic Book Cellar, in the heart of Lake Worth. “We recently noticed an influx of trans and gender-nonconfirming youth coming to Compass, and we wanted to have an event that demonstrated to them the inclusion and acceptance of gender fluidity and non-conformity in our community,” mentioned Rex Barnes, Youth Program Coordinator for Compass. “Our group was thrilled at the turnout of the first story time, and hope for similar crowds for the next three in the event series.” Drag Storytime is open to the public, in addition to being open to all ages. The inaugural guest reader was spider queen Charlotte Shotgun. “I felt completely honored to be the first person to do something like this in our county. You see it on TV and online all the time but never in our area,” Charlotte said. “It’s one of the first books I bought growing up,” Charlotte declared. “I read Charlotte’s Web because that’s where I got my name and aesthetic from. My love for spiders developed after reading it! Charlotte read the first chapter in addition to gracing the crowd with a performance. LGBT activist Michelle Tea and literacy company Radar productions created drag story time in 2015. One of the first sessions occurred in San Francisco. According to a recent article from USA today, there have been several cities that have spoken out against the program. Warriors for Christ, TFP Student Actions, Citizens for a New Louisiana, recently expressed their disdain by rallying up protestors in honor of the Drag Story Time that was scheduled to occur at the Lafayette Public Library in Louisiana. The TFP Student Action acquired over 17,000 signatures in opposition towards all drag story times held in libraries across the country. Despite the controversy, Compass is committed to creating spaces where everyone can be acceptable, no matter the gender, race, age, or sexual identity. “42 percent of LGBT youth say the community in which they live is not accepting of LGBT people, according to Human Rights Campaign. Seeing a real demonstration of acceptance where they live can make a real difference in how supported they feel, and contributes to a decrease in suicidal ideation,” Barnes said. “The fact that it’s a story time also encourages literacy and a love of reading, it also encourages families to participate together.”
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SFGN had the opportunity to catch up with the Oftedal family as they were leaving the book store: Why do you feel this event was needed?
Oftedal Family: I’d heard about Drag Queen Story Hour and was so inspired. I want our son to experience all sorts of things, to learn empathy, and to have role models of all kinds. It’s important for us that our son can feel confident meeting new people, asking appropriate questions and finding the good in all sorts of cultures and communities. Especially in our country’s climate, I’d like for him to grow up with an appreciation that different is great.
How did your child act during the experience? Oftedal Family: He was excited abot meeting a “Queen” and was really into the bats on Ms. Charlotte’s dress and her tattoos. We have some family that represent as
news
Next event: Feb. 6 5:30 - 7 at the Book Cellar in Lake Worth. For more information on how you can participate in Drag Story Time, visit CompassGLCC.com.
gender nonconforming and he’s questioned if so-and-so is a boy or a girl; I think this experience has aided in his toddler-level understanding that it doesn’t really matter and that it’s okay to kindly ask them.
What would you say to parents that are hesitant to bring their family/kids?
Oftedal Family: It’s our job, as parents, to raise good humans. One of our family values is being an ally to the community. So, for us, attending and supporting events like this fit into our core family values. So, I guess I would ask parents to first identify their core family values and identify where those values come from. If you can justify taking your kid to sit on an old man’s lap during Christmastime, but not listening to a drag queen read a children’s story, then you’re just not my people and I’m not sure there is any advice I can share on the subject. Right!?
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P A L M B E A CH
le tte r s
Thank You For Your ‘La La’ Story Michael Brown was my neighbor, boss, and confidante
Dear Jason, Last week’s issue of the SFGN featuring the life, loss and legacy of Michael Brown (of West Palm Beach & Rooster’s) - was informed, authentic, and poignant. It was also an important contextual piece, on so many levels, as Michael Brown represented an era when the gatekeeper of our social networks played a vital role in maintaining a higher level of discretion, protection and often times anonymity, so that our private lives could be only as open as we wanted them to be. In 1997, the year I met Michael, gay men in Florida were facing a new world. 1997 was the year anonymous testing programs were required to begin reporting the names of those persons, who tested positive for HIV, to the State of Florida. Testing numbers didn’t just drop, before I joined, they were nonexistent. Programs like the one at Compass had been marked for extinction because no one was asking or telling anyone anything. Michael was well-known, but he was also very private, and the moments following (ten years after I met him) – as his name was spoken in the news – were queer, unusual and the events were shocking. The way I remember it - in my world of superheroes – I’m standing in a bar surrounded in green hangover decorations – hung from before St. Patrick’s Day 2008. The Incredible Hulk was dead. Stabbed to death, he was found in his home after he didn’t show up for work. Found in his condo, just north of Southern...
The murderer? A person suffering the same afflictions Michael helped me to forge a Compass to battle. The man who murdered my best friend was able to do so because Michael refused to kick a guy to the curb most people would have left for dead, without checking for a pulse. Michael was a Gentle Giant, he his refused to turn his back on the guy. Those of us who loved him were powerless, but were we really afraid for his life? Maybe we just hated the way he was being treated. It actually hurt to confront how many people felt that they knew loss like I did, and I missed my moment to feel it. The pain people expressed...I was actually jealous of it. I found it excruciating to hear people talk about his murder - to hear people say how much they loved him - because I knew that they did. Everyone did. How could I be angry for feeling like I lost more than anyone else. When you interviewed people, did you learn his DNA was hand crafted? When he interacted with you, you walked away feeling unique in his world, and because of that gift, anyone who met him felt a little more special in the world we share. He was my neighbor, boss, confidante — an absolutely fabulous, late night, dog-walking, pot brownie cooking, life is Chicken Soup for the Soul, dance-with-my-mother-untilshe-drops, best friend. He was fearless and strong. And because of him I wasn’t afraid to be out, or to go out, or to be anywhere at anytime – with or without him. He protected us, unapologetically, and universally. I just needed you to know you’ve
Michael was a Gentle Giant, he his refused to turn his back on the guy.
captured his presence along with his community values, values he inspired in others, or at least I hope they did. He was the epitome of “Judge? You? Move the f*ck on Mary, there’s work to be done.” He made us share our Pride, without shame. I’m a better man than most because of him. He knew we did not have to be angels to justify wearing wings. We always intended to fly now and again, The bubbles, rainbows, and bumpy rides – all of it waiting up in the air, tripping us up all the time – flying or trying to fall down in the right direction. Who knows? Did it matter? “Get over it Mary, it’s just the weight of the world,” he’d say as he’d shrug after a particularly stressful day or several, “Take a look at these shoulders! Heh?”
Let your voice be heard! Submit your own letter to Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com 24
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“561-820,” the Palm Beach Post’s signature caller ID – the last four digits – random – a reporter? What in the hell do they want to talk to me about this late on a Friday night? “Mr. Plakas, I’m a reporter with the Palm Beach Post. We got your number from Compass. Did you know Michael Brown?” She said his name so casually, and the sentence was so past tense - he’d been gone forever before I heard her say another word. And it felt exactly like he said. It was just the weight of the world.
Tony Plakas
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NEWS white house watch
New Jersey’s Booker Joins Presidential Field
John McDonald
x
U.S. Senator Cory Booker. Photo via Cory Booker.
T
he Democratic presidential field continues to expand with the announcement on Feb. 1 by U.S. Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey that he would join the campaign.
Booker declared he would seek the Democratic nomination in Newark, where he served as the city’s mayor for two terms. “My record as a mayor, my record as a senator is fighting those interests that are trying to screw people,” Booker told reporters outside his home on Friday. “And when it comes to defending folk, I will be ferocious.” Booker, 49, has steadily built a national identity. He played college football at Stanford, got his law degree from Yale and in 2006 was elected Mayor of Newark – a city with a population that had been declining for many years. On LGBT issues Booker has become a strong advocate. Booker was elected New Jersey’s junior Senator in 2013, becoming the state’s first ever African American U.S. Senator. He visited South Florida in the summer of 2016 for a leadership gala organized by state Democratic party officials. Speaking at the Diplomat Resort & Spa in Hollywood, Booker has “no chance” to win the presidency. Evans stopped short of endorsing Booker – per DNC rules said “we are called to be a nation of love.” Meanwhile, on the Senate’s judiciary committee, Booker – but admitted his candidacy would likely be most appealing asked hard questions of President Trump’s nominees. He to the party’s moderate and progressive voters. “He has a presence to him,” Evans admitted. “He’s truly a got Attorney General Nominee William Barr to voice support for LGBT kids in respect to school bullying and hate crimes. Democrat.” Booker’s entry into the field gives Democrats In a different hearing, Booker declared his ‘I more than 10 declared candidates – four of Am Spartacus’ moment when discussing the which are U.S. Senators. Elder statesmen such release of Supreme Court Justice nominee Brett as former Vice President Joe Biden, Vermont Kavanaugh’s confidential emails from his time Senator Bernie Sanders and former New York as special counsel to former President George City Mayor Michael Bloomberg are all mulling W. Bush. a run. Evans said it would take a “very unique Ken Evans, a longtime Broward County person” to absorb the pressure, criticism and resident and member of the Democratic scrutiny of a national campaign. National Committee, has met Booker on four “Biden can handle that,” Evans said. “I hope different occasions. Cory has the temperament to roll with that.” “He’s always been very cordial and very Marianne Williamson, Oprah’s “spiritual sincere,” Evans said. “He’s really an exciting advisor,” launched a long shot bid for the candidate.” presidency last week as well. Williamson is also Evans said Booker has an “interesting - Cory Brooker an author and activist. In 2014 she ran for the background and history” and is always U.S. Senator House of Representatives in California, coming respectful and certainly, “a friend of the LGBT in fourth place with 13.2 percent of the vote. One community.” policy position she’s proposing is $100 billion in reparations “Cory is that American you really admire,” said Evans. Trump seems to disagree and has wasted no time in for slavery. “I believe $100 billion given to a council to apply this attacking Booker. “He ran Newark, New Jersey into the ground and was a money to economic projects and educational projects of horrible mayor,” Trump said outside the White House last renewal for that population is a debt to be paid,” Williamson October. Over the weekend, Trump told CBS News Booker said on CNN.
“... When it comes to defending folk, I will be ferocious.”
LGBT Politicos of The Week: 1. Shevrin Jones, Florida Representative: The Broward Democrat spoke out following a street attack on Empire star Jussie Smollett. “Our hearts are with you during this difficult time,” Jones posted in a video on Facebook. “America we need to start having conversations with each other again, because truth is, we are more similar than we are different.”
2. Jane Castor, Candidate for Tampa Mayor: The former Chief of Police won endorsements from Equality Florida’s Action Pac and the LGBTQ Victory Fund in her campaign for Tampa’s mayor. Joe Saunders, EQFL senior political director, called Castor “a breakthrough moment in the movement for LGBTQ representation in Florida.”
White House Watch is a weekly column taking a look at the state of the 2020 Presidential election.
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Convictions
Editorial Cartoon
Editorial Cartoon By Mike Luckovich
2.06.2019 •
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Publisher's Editorial
Convictions
Are Trump Supporters Trashing SFGN?
The card left inside SFGN bins.x
Norm Kent
norm.kent@sfgn.com
F
ree speech is a bitch. It gives you the right to say whatever you want, but it gives the prick you hate that same right. I hate pornography personally, but I defend pornographers. Don’t expect to catch me in the park, though, wearing only a raincoat. Still, when my client Al Goldstein, a newspaper publisher, who published Screw Magazine for 19 years in New York City, chose to put a statue of a raised middle finger in his backyard, on his patio, at his home, in Pompano Beach, that he paid for, with his own money, I defended his right to do so. I think it was Benjamin Franklin who wrote that “I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend to your death your right to say it.” The founding citizens of our republic stood up to a king that made it a crime to criticize him. We started a revolution to be at liberty to say and do what we wanted, when we wanted, and how we wanted to. I don’t expect you to agree with me all the time, nor do I care if you do or not. That is why the First Amendment, the very first one, says that Congress shall make no laws that abridge the freedom of the press. The First Amendment is a restrictive covenant. It does not just say what rights we have. It reminds the government what rights they can never take away; ones that were never theirs to give. They were inalienable, indivisible and undeniable. This means that courts should not issue gag orders on one hand, because their judicial powers are an extension of the government. They should be protecting a free press, not silencing it. Correspondingly, every citizen has a duty to stand up and protect someone’s right to publish something you don’t want to hear, don’t choose to read, and don’t like to see. You have the right to turn the dial off any radio
station you are listening to. But don’t smash the radio. Find another station. If you don’t want to read our paper, don’t. But please, when you pick it up and throw it away, you are putting yourself in the trash, not our words. We will survive you, on the streets, online, and in our communities. The truth always comes out, whether you like it or not, whether you are the president or a pauper. So don’t throw away papers because you don’t like what they say. When you close the door on reality, it comes in through the window. Come now then, to SFGN news boxes in a variety of places, from Stork’s Bakery to Bob’s News on Andrews Avenue near Broward General. In venue after venue, people who oppose our editorial vent are trashing our papers - throwing them out. But they are leaving a Trumpian message. In each of the locations where a conspiratorial SOB emptied the news boxes, we were left a little pre-printed note reading that “The Trumps Sacrificed Their Wealth for Our Country. The Clintons Sacrificed Their Country for Our Wealth.” I have enclosed a picture next to this special column. Here is the hateful ad from Trump supporters. They are using it as an excuse to deny you access to SFGN. Ours is a free paper. You don’t have to read it or pick it up. But you do not have to be mendacious, and throw it out either. If you do, you flunk First Amendment 101. It costs thousands of dollars a week to distribute this free newspaper. Nothing about it is free, except our opinions. The delivery vans, the insurance, the rent, the drivers, the printers, and right down to the ink cost us money.
If you don’t want to read our paper, don’t.
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Our news boxes are proprietary. We pay a city-licensing fee to locate them, a manufacturer to build them. Trashing papers lawfully placed is an act of criminal, malicious mischief. But it is more than a misdemeanor. It is a high crime. It is treason. We will prosecute you. Stop it. Read the paper instead. On our pages, you may learn that our 45th president is a con artist, a crook and a criminal, corruptly catapulting our country and constitution to a catastrophic collapse. Or maybe you will tell me to go screw myself. I don’t care. Whatever floats your boat. Go put jelly on your belly. Make yourself happy. Just don’t try to shut me up. Besides, you can ask my mom. That has never worked. Give others the chance to read what you seek to censor. What is not right for you might
be for them. Let them do their thing; you do yours. I will defend your right to speak out, just as I have Roger Stone, Al Goldstein, Neil Rogers and other people you can’t stand. We built the First Amendment for people to stand on a stump and say what they want, no matter what else anyone may damned think. If passengers on an airplane were randomly asked their opinions, it might be like a Thanksgiving dinner. Everyone could scream and shout and yell at each other, but we have one thing in common no matter what. We are all rooting for the pilot. The First Amendment is everyone’s pilot. To keep the flame burning, papers can’t. To make the truth available, the press has to have a right to write. You have to have a right to read. Don’t play with matches. The rights you burn down belong to all of us.
WMG Volume 6 • Issue 3 February 6, 2019
Wilton Manors Gazette Facebook.com/groups/WMGazette
Wilton Manors PD Shows Off Pride with
New Rainbow Rider Page 6
Photo credit: Carina Mask.
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Opinion
Giving Credit Where Credit is Due…
WMG February 6, 2018 • Volume 6 • Issue 3 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943
By Sal Torre I have no hesitation calling out our local elected officials when they deserve to be raked over the coals for poor decisions. Equally so, I should be ready to offer words of praise when their actions stand out as honorable and deserving of admiration. This week I find myself pondering such praise for a Commissioner, who I would have preferred not to have won the election this past November, our former Mayor and newly elected City Commissioner Gary Resnick. For far too many years, a certain commercial property on Andrews Avenue has been a danger to the safety and welfare of residents, left abandoned, neglected and a major attraction for the area’s homeless population. Making matters worse, this property Wilton Manors City Commission. Photo via Facebook. stands as an entranceway to our fine city at the busy intersection of Andrews Avenue and Oakland Park Blvd. This amount that allowed the city to file foreclosure in the school’s history. Commissioner Resnick made a very solid, well thought-out motion to cancerous deterioration is a blight for proceedings against the property. This wealthy family now looks for every have a lien reduction in line with the extent of the surrounding neighbors, our Andrews excuse under the sun, such as ill-served notice, neglect our community has had to suffer over Avenue community, and our entire city. The owner of this property is not health issues, and numerous other excuses in the years. Unfortunately, Commissioner Resnick was someone who has fallen on hard times, an attempt to explain why such problems have joined only by Commissioner Rolli, who equally or someone who has suffered from gone on for so long. This past week, their lien reduction request stated strong support for keeping the lien health issues or someone experiencing other extraneous circumstances that came before our City Commission. What makes reduction to a minimum. What passed was a could excuse the years of neglect that our this even more outrageous is that the family reduction of over 70 percent of fines owed to the suddenly snapped out of their city, not a bad night for the Warrington Family. city has had to endure. We can only hope that their prominent local state of confusion to hire a very On the contrary, the Commissioner prominent local attorney to attorney was able to deliver something in return owners of this property, Resnick forcibly make the request that our City for such a huge reduction. Giving such a large the Warrington family, Commission approve reducing lien reduction and having the property continue are very wealthy, own pointed out the over $436,000 in accrued fines to sit there in its present condition does nothing multiple commercial years of neglect to the measly, insulting amount for our city. properties along of this property The property owner has demonstrated of just a bit over $18,000. I Andrews Avenue, and located at such could only wish to get a similar no community interest what-so-ever in our care absolutely nothing reduction in bills that I need to wonderful city, and the lien reduction should about the effects of their a prominent have been proportional to the amount of their pay at the end of the month. neglect on our neighbors entranceway into Here is where I give involvement and commitment over the years— or on the public safety of our wonderful city. Commissioner Gary Resnick zilch—nada—nothing. our community. So, kudos to Commissioners Resnick and the praise he so righteously Code Enforcement and city staff have done their duty deserves. During the discussion, Commissioner Rolli. Thank you both for pointing out that identifying the issues with this property Resnick forcibly pointed out the years of neglect over the years. They have reached out of this property located at such a prominent commercial property owners must have a responsibility to maintain their properties, to to the owners, issued citations, sought entranceway into our wonderful city. He went on to state that this family should be support the surrounding communities, and ways to bring this property back from the neglected condition, and offered endless embarrassed over the state of their properties have a commitment to be a good neighbor. outreach to the wealthy family trust that here in Wilton Manors while at the same time Commission actions should not look to donating millions to have their family name undermine the work done by a pro-active, owns the property. Our city staff finally received the placed upon a building at the University of strong code enforcement policy. These policies protect the quality of life in our Island City and first formidable response from these Florida campus. In 2014, the Warrington family gave $75 are a major factor in what keeps life just better carpetbaggers only after code violation fines accrued to such a burdensome million to the university, the largest donation here. WMG
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
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. MEMBER
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Mickel Park is full of fun for the family! Photo via the City of Wilton Manors, Facebook.
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February 6, 2019
Real Estate
A Long-Range Pricing Forecast? By James Oaksun Last time, I looked at whether recent trends in prices could indicate future price trends. We saw that, in general, an established trend will persist for another nine to 12 months unless “something” happens. This time, let’s look at prices over the very long term and see if there are any interesting points of inflection worth investigating further. I took the Federal Housing Finance Administration data I used last time and smoothed the bumps out with a rolling four-quarter average. I also adjusted for overall price inflation. We want to look at real price changes, not ones caused by changes in money’s purchasing power. The first chart looks at the period from 1977 through 2000. Believe it or not, inflation-adjusted prices were actually trending gradually down the whole time! By the time the absolute low was hit in 1997, real prices had decreased by 21 percent – roughly one percent per year. (Although the prices paid for homes more than doubled in that period, consumer prices more than tripled. So the inflation adjusted change was negative.) Now look at chart two, covering 1995 to the present. As I said above, we got our first inflection
point during 1997. Prices started moving upward briskly – first at a trot and then at a sprint. By the time that sprint – also known as “the bubble” – ended in late 2006, inflation-adjusted real estate prices had increased by 143 percent. On a compound annual basis, that’s 10 percent per year. From that obvious inflection point, a precipitous decline ensued. By its end in early 2012, inflationadjusted prices had dropped by 53 percent – nearly erasing the entire 1997-2006 gain. And then, from that inflection point, another uptrend that continues to this day. Prices in real terms are up by 58 percent – 8 percent compounded annually. So, while it is not quite a sprint, it is definitely different from the 1977-1997 experience. What caused the three inflection points we have had in the last 20 years? Will prices just go flat again like 1977-97, or might another inflection point and correction be at hand? Tune in next time. WMG James Oaksun, Florida’s Real Estate Geek(SM), is Broker-Owner of New Realty Concepts in Oakland Park. In addition to having degrees from Dartmouth and Cornell, he is a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI).
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EDITORIAL
Planners Strike Out at the Plaza Renovation Design Plan Gets an “F” for Failure By Norm Kent If Brenda Snipes can be removed from her constitutionally elected office for incompetence, then the persons responsible for planning the construction on Wilton Drive can be tarred and feathered. Who in the room has not heard the popular Americanism, “I am from the government, and I am here to help you.” With friends like that, who needs enemies? Let’s deal with reality. Whoever or whatever orchestrated this reconstruction plan should be fired, or at least sent on an indefinite vacation. It is one thing to ask businesses to bear with you during construction to build a better tomorrow. It is quite another to strip them bare in the process so there is no tomorrow. First, we readily acknowledge that the remaking of the Shoppes of Wilton Manors and plaza is a good thing. However, it is an overdue undertaking off to a very bad start. Years down the road, a more pedestrianfriendly drive will enhance businesses while making life more livable for all our residents. We applaud the initiative. Now let’s hope the businesses still there are alive to appreciate it when the project is completed. Unfortunately, for everyone from the tenant businesses to the alcoholics standing
Photo credit: Justin Musial.
on the corner asking for loose change, the reconstruction has created a financial nightmare. It is hard to have a Bloody Mary when you must get blood on your body to reach one. The state’s answer to the businesses strangled with the reconstruction plan has been to post small blue and white signs along the drive reading, “Businesses Still Open.” Oh, really? Well, not for long, thanks to your piss-poor planning. Despite the state’s embarrassing outreach and lame notice, ingress and egress to the plaza is strangled. You reasonably should be asking, “how did this happen?” There are no justifiable excuses. Kids with an Etch a Sketch pad could have planned better. At SFGN, we are newspaper publishers, not design architects. We could lay out what the state could have done better during this transition. That is a task better left to city planning and zoning officials, meeting in conjunction with the state. Even our distribution network has been incredibly compromised by the lack of planning. We had ten red news boxes on the drive that have all had to be removed during the reconstruction process. Our reward for retaining some boxes, thereby salvaging a few spots where you could still find and reach the paper was to
Check out what’s happening
Around Town Wilton Manors Used Book Fair Hosted by the Friends of the Wilton Manors Library Saturday, Feb. 9, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Indoors at the Hagen Park Community Center Located behind City Hall at 2020 Wilton Drive • Large selection of fiction, non-fiction, videos and music CD’s for adults and children • Offered for a small donation • Free Parking • All proceeds benefit the Wilton Manors Public Library
For additional information call 954-566-9019 32
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have the city’s code enforcement inspectors issue us a citation and impose a $150 fine. You gotta be kidding. Still, what is happening to us is nothing compared to what the businesses are going through. Clearly, the re-design plan for businesses and residents was not thought out carefully enough. You have a right to be critical. It could have been done better. As a result, businesses in the shoppes are hurting. Down the road, places like the new Burgers and Beers, along with Smoke and Vape next door to them are currently obstructed, and nearly inaccessible. It did not have to be that way. Temporary parking could have been arranged. This is a good time for customers and consumers to support businesses on the drive. Besides, there is nothing like a great burger while vaping. Anyway, do what you can to support our neighbors today, even if it means negotiating a few military style barricades and blockades. They won’t be there much longer. Donald Trump is having them moved to our southern border. Finally, don’t be afraid to criticize the state. Administrators and planners could and should have done a better job. Don’t blame us. We are the news media; just the legless guys who teach running. We can find a little bad in the best of things. Have a great day, and don’t forget to send your comments to editor@sfgn.com. WMG
February 6, 2019
Boomerang’s Thrift Store to Leave Wilton Drive
BUSINESS
“I really like this neighborhood but it feels like it’s losing some of its charm because it’s a revolving door” By Sallie James High rents, short-term leases, parking Also moving with Boomerang’s is the Good problems and construction are all reasons Luck Cat Cafe, a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) that why Matt LaMariana is moving his popular has placed more than 125 homeless cats in thrift store to nearby Oakland Park in March. forever homes since it opened in June 2016. “They were looking to develop the property LaMariana provides space so the nonprofit and they couldn’t guarantee us has a venue for adoptions. any more than a six months The store opened in 2011 “I don’t think extension. That is what and has developed a loyal it’s the right fit happens with gentrification,” following. said LaMariana, president of Fort Lauderdale resident for the Arts and the Animal Rescue Fund 501(3) Rudolph Robinson, 66, said Entertainment (c) which operates Boomerang’s it’s the best place around to District. I’m glad thrift store. “The amount of buy quality used shoes. He rent is definitely part of it as said he will follow the store they found a well. Every dollar we spend is to wherever it relocates and more appropriate less money we can give to the continue to shop there. location for their rescues. We definitely like to “I can’t find a better place. keep our overhead down.” The stuff they have is good very important LaMariana has donated quality and their prices are purpose.” more than $500,000 to rescue reasonable,” said Robinson, groups over the years to give who bought clothes, shoes, - Don d’Arminio vice chairman of the homeless animals a second a toaster and a coffee maker city’s Planning and chance. (The money is raised on this day. “I wouldn’t go Zoning Board by the thrift store he operates.) anywhere else, especially when His store at 2365 Wilton Drive will move it comes to shoes.” about a mile away to 3454 N. Andrews Avenue. A huge parking lot with plenty of spaces The new store will be bigger, more upscale is something LaMariana says he is hoping and have lots of free parking. will increase his store’s appeal, once it moves. He is constantly chasing motorists from his current parking lot because parking in Wilton Manors is scarce and drivers park in his lot and leave for other businesses. “I won’t have to worry about chasing down people and towing cars for people who aren’t there and spend the day shopping all over Wilton Manors,” LaMariana said. He is also glad to be leaving the downtown Wilton Manors construction behind. A much-anticipated project to narrow Northeast Fourth Avenue/Wilton Drive from Sunrise Boulevard to Northeast 26th Street to two-lanes began in August and has moved into the city’s downtown area, causing parking issues. The goal of the project is to make the city’s downtown more pedestrian-friendly. The Florida Department of Transportation project will include 7-foot-wide bicycle lanes, widen sidewalks, upgrade pedestrian signals and modify pedestrian curb ramps
to meet ADA requirements. The project also includes road upgrades, pedestrian lighting, installation of new drainage structures and an upgrade of the existing drainage system. LaMariana said Florida is too hot to be “pedestrian-friendly” during the day and doesn’t believe some of the improvements are necessary. The construction outside his store is also hurting business, he said. “It’s 100 degrees in the summer. Everyone drives everywhere,” he said. “There is no pedestrian traffic.” Don d’Arminio, vice chairman of the city’s Planning and Zoning Board, said the thrift store is better suited to another location. “I don’t think it’s the right fit for the Arts and Entertainment District. I’m glad they found a more appropriate location for their very important purpose,” d’Arminio said. Tony LoGrande, chairman of the Wilton Drive Improvement District and a retail branding strategist, echoed d’Arminio’s sentiments. “We are sorry to see a business close on the Drive, however charity shops are traditionally … on fringe locations, not on main streets,”
LoGrande said. “I think this has to do with any main street type area that is attracting higher rents and more complicated terms of business - including less parking because it’s a walkable district. Those don’t usually appeal to transitional businesses such as a charity shop.” Bars, restaurants and clothing stores with higher business profitability are the type of businesses that generally need to be on pedestrian-oriented streets. “[Boomerang’s] is a great addition to the Drive and they certainly play a wonderful role within the community but it is a factor of retail,” LoGrande said. William Fleming, 36, a Chicagoan who visits Wilton Manors about six times a year, said the changing number of businesses on the Drive is noticeable. “I really like this neighborhood but it feels like it’s losing some of its charm because it’s a revolving door,” Fleming said as he shopped at Boomerang’s on a recent Sunday. “I’m only here six times a year and I notice it. This is one of the few places I go because you can get parking.” WMG
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Community
Wilton Manors PD Shows Off Pride with
New Rainbow Rider By Sallie James
Photo credit: Carina Mask.
Police in the second gayest city in America have gussied up a squad car with the colors of the rainbow in support of the community they protect. “I don’t think there is any better way to show this is genuine public recognition by a municipality,” said five-year city resident Matt Dreger of the colorful cruiser. “This isn’t just a flag up on a pole somebody won’t see unless they are in the park or if someone points it out. I think it really shows the heart of the community.” The city rolled out the rainbow rider in anticipation of Fort Lauderdale’s upcoming Pride Fort Lauderdale festival, Feb. 22-24, and Wilton Manors’ Stonewall Pride Street Festival on June 15, said Wilton Manors Police Chief Paul O’Connell. “It’s pride in our community and it’s diversity. It’s pride in our Police Department,” O’Connell said. “We can do our job a whole lot better as long as we have a partnership with degrees in a different direction. Now police the community. That car is an illustration of are flying our flag. What else could it do but that partnership.” make you happy?” The rainbow wrap, designed by a city The Stonewall riots of June 28, 1969, employee, includes rainbows on both sides of marked the birth of an international gay the car and the words “Policing with Pride” on rights movement, spurred on by violent the hood and rear window. The word “Pride,” confrontations between police and gay rights in rainbow colors, appears on the vehicle’s activists. trunk and doors. The vehicle will be used for Wilton Manors police decked out the special events. cruiser in early January well ahead of the two In a city where residents elected their first upcoming events so they couldn’t be shamed all-gay City Commission like they were last year when in November 2018, a police another city thought of it car with rainbow swoops is just “I don’t think first. another visible embrace of the local “Fort Lauderdale skunked there is any demographics. us last year,” O’Connell better way to Wilton Manors has the second confessed. “They had one of show this is highest rate of same sex couples in their cars wrapped for our the United States and the first highest genuine public Stonewall parade last year. rate of any city in Florida, according We are trying to one-up recognition to UCLA’s Williams Institute. The them.” by a city has 125 gay couples per 1,000 The festive decor will municipality.” compared to San Francisco, which come off after the June event. has 30, the Institute said. “It’s a wrap. Easy on, easy - Matt Dreger Dreger, a member of the City resident off,” O’Connell said. The city Stonewall parade committee, said spent about $1,000 on the the rainbow cruiser will be a show decals, he said. stopper when it rolls down the Stonewall “The few dollars that were spent are festival parade route in June. significantly outweighed by the popular “I think the crowd will roar,” Dreger impact,” O’Connell added. “It’s a great predicted. “Considering Stonewall started illustration of our Police Department from police harassment, we have come 180 reflecting the community it serves.” WMG
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Photo credit: Carina Mask.
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Wilton Manors By Carina Mask
Photos
Book Club Meeting On Jan. 16, the Wilton Manors Book Club held a talk for "Erotic stories for Punjabi Widows," a novel by Balli Kaur Jaswal.
To see more photos and news from WMG, join us at Facebook.com/groups/WMGazette
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BUSINESS
MANORS FIRES BACK Bashes Lawsuit by Defunct Nightclub, BALLZ By Norm Kent A month ago, nightclub owner Sean David four months straight,” and that “nearly every made news by filing a lawsuit against the customer complained to David the business city of Wilton Manors, accusing its staff of was being harassed.” sabotaging his efforts to open a bar in the Castrataro summarized the police activity island city, back in January of 2017. as a complete sham, and a mere pretext to David filed claims accusing the city of “intimidate and drive away customers for the permitting staff and law enforcement to sole purpose of forcing the plaintiff to close intimidate and harass him his business.” personally, with the purposeful Castrataro remarked intent of ruining his business that the city incorrectly plan. The bar closed after only concluded David would open three months of operation. up a strip club, due to his past The 12-page lawsuit, filed ownership of the Boardwalk, by attorney George Castrataro, then Johnny’s, and present accused the city generally, proprietorship of Le Boy, each and community development featuring male dancers. director Roberta Moore “Ironically,” Castrataro particularly, of intentionally stated, “the city got it wrong chilling David’s First all along. David wanted to Amendment rights. diversify his holdings and open Castrataro claimed the city up a sports bar.” repeatedly threatened and Finally, the complaint said warned David the city “that the the city was depriving David - George Castrataro city does not want a male go-go of use of his property, without Lawyer bar on Wilton Drive,” and “it due process of law, and asked would get shut down.” for damages and attorney’s The complaint read that the city “barged fees. into the club with law enforcement on a Well, the city’s attorneys do not exactly nightly basis.” agree, to say the least. The suit further alleges that “the Representing the City of Wilton Manors, relentless nightly harassment continued for attorney Christopher Stearns fired back a steaming 15-page motion to dismiss the lawsuit, claiming it was specious, without legal merit, and “fails to state a single valid claim upon which relief can be granted.” Citing dozens of legal precedents and prior judicial rulings in his memorandum of law, Stearns claimed the plaintiff was not denied “fundamental rights” or “equal protection of the law.” Stearns noted the standards for arguing “invidious discrimination” required meeting a legal threshold that the “plaintiff did not meet.” Going out of his way to put the response in bold print, Stearns rebuffed Castrataro by arguing that his lawsuit was “devoid of ANY allegations of fact that the city of Wilton Manors engages in a custom of violating residents’ first, fourth, or fourteenth amendment rights.” George Castrataro.
“Ironically, the city got it wrong all along. David wanted to diversify his holdings and open up a sports bar.”
BALLZ Bar, before it was shut down. Photo via Yelp.
The city’s reply said that since “No facts were alleged, no due process claim can stand,” suggesting the court should on its own throw out the lawsuit. The city also attacked the claim that its actions were retaliatory, or that David’s First Amendment rights were inhibited in any way by the conduct of any city official or employee. Their reply takes the position that nothing they did in response to the club’s opening was “an adverse action prohibited by the First Amendment.”
The city of Wilton Manors also stated that David’s claim failed to show his business was treated any differently than any other business similarly planning an opening, and that there was no discrimination against him, along with the fact that his complaint is absent a single affidavit or document showing otherwise. Stearns raised procedural claims as well, arguing that if David has any remedy at all, he would have to make his claims in state court first, since the city’s actions are properly reviewable there. WMG
Editor’s Note: The motion to dismiss is now under judicial review by United States District Judge William Dimitrouleas, assigned randomly to hear this cause of action. He can set it for a hearing or rule on his own. If the motion to dismiss is granted, the plaintiff is generally given an opportunity to amend or better articulate its claims. If the motion is denied, the defendant is ordered to file an answer to the claims.
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Photos
Wilton Manors
Friends of the Library
By Carina Mask
The Wilton Manors Friends of the Library held their interactive Sea & Me event on Jan. 31 at the Richard C . Sullivan Public Library of Wilton Manors.
Benjamin Little.
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To see more photos and news from WMG, join us at Facebook.com/groups/WMGazette
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Photos
Concert Series at Mickel Park
By Carina Mask
On Jan. 18, the Caribbean Chillers, a Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band, brought a smooth vibe for residents of Wilton Manors to warm up with during the "coolest" days of winter.
To see more photos and news from WMG, join us at Facebook.com/groups/ WMGazette
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Community
Accident or Murder? Four years later Henry Vidal’s death remains unsolved By Tim Martin Henry Vidal.
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Four years ago a popular local bartender, Information Officer Keyla Concepcion, the Henry Vidal, was found dead in his Wilton BSO said it will not release any information Manors apartment. His death was ruled a on the case at this time. When pressed that homicide. But now Vidal’s mother has said a a detective has spoken at length to Vidal’s detective told her investigators are no longer mother, Concepcion said information coming certain of that conclusion — instead it may from the mother was fine. Vidal’s body was discovered by a cohave been an accident. Vidal’s mother, Caridad “Cary” Labarta, worker in May 2015. His death was ruled a 63, of Pembroke Pines, said Det. Mike Roque homicide after the medical examiner released of the Broward Sheriff’s Office told her details of the autopsy to authorities. Vidal authorities are no longer certain Vidal, 32, was employed at the now closed B Bar on Wilton Drive. Prior to that, Vidal was murdered. bartended at the Alibi. But homicide hasn’t been “I think the “I believe there is more to ruled out yet. the story,” said Vidal’s former Labarta said the detective person got partner, Evan Linette of Fort told her that Vidal died of a scared and Lauderdale. “I have reached out spleen injury and that he could several times to offer assistance. have fallen. Labarta also said left Henry If authorities can keep pushing Roque told her a second person’s to die. That’s and dig deeper, continue to ask DNA was discovered inside the what I want questions, get the community apartment, but no match could involved, maybe there is a light be found in any database. to believe.” at the end of the tunnel.” “They are still investigating,” - Caridad "Cary" Linette and Labarta remain Labarta said. She noted that Labarta close and speak often. Both are she’s been in contact with Vidal’s mother left wondering what happened. Roque, the lead detective, a few “This is something I think times in the last year. “This is hard. I want to know what about every day. Every day,” said Linette, who happened,” Labarta said. “I think the person spurred by this incident stepped away from got scared and left Henry to die. That’s what I bar managing to take a job as a behavioral health technician at American Addiction want to believe.” Police had said previously that they were Centers. “Henry was my world. His death led looking for a person of interest, but Labarta me to a career change that I absolutely love.” Labarta is grateful for a community that said that Roque has told her no one has been cares. contacted or interviewed. “I want to thank them,” she said. “The “They don’t have any suspects,” Labarta community has supported me through said. While the investigation remains “active this difficult time. I’m just hoping to have and ongoing,” according to BSO Senior Public closure.” WMG
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February 6, 2019
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kent’s corner
Henry Vidal’s Death
Lives Again By Norm Kent
Henry Vidal.
It has been three and a half years since something, say something” need to do more 32-year-old Henry Vidal, a local bartender, to practice what they preach. was found dead in his Northeast 20th street What if their silence today contributes to a apartment, overlooking the Dairy Queen on second killing tomorrow? Wilton Drive. The steps a police department is taking to Manors police responded to a medical call, capture a killer should not be a state secret, but it seemed suspicious. BSO followed up but a news bulletin for your local paper. And if first, the medical examiner next. nothing is or has been done, then we ought to Police investigators responded, cordoning damn well know. off the area with the very stark and visible Henry’s tragic loss swamped social media. yellow and black crime scene tape we have Initially, BSO would only call it a “death all sadly come to know too well. Detectives investigation.” Nevertheless, online voices began questioning neighbors, co-workers, were shouting all too soon it was a homicide. and friends. Twenty-four hours later, the medical And then we were all told Henry had examiner would agree. been murdered. Each year since, SFGN has Henry was born in 1982. He would have reported that the case was unsolved. As the been 36 in 2018, just before Christmas. This case got colder and colder, it young gay man from Hialeah meant a killer was still on the had grown up to study at the BSO has a legal loose, longer and longer. Harrington School of Design Henry’s stunning death in Chicago. He had two obligation and shook up the heart and sisters, a host of friends, and public duty to soul of the Wilton Manors a life of dreams interrupted, gay community. He was apparently by a killer. Now routinely update a handsome and popular BSO is not so sure. and report to individual, had been a pourer As reported in our paper at the Alibi, and a friend to this week, SFGN has learned a community many. You can only imagine that Henry’s mother has been about their what it did to his mom and told by BSO his death may be ongoing family. reclassified. The authorities In the Island City that are now suggesting there is no investigations. we celebrate every June on killer to be found; that there the Drive, in an apartment never was. But the only thing complex so many of us have visited, a good we know for sure is that we don’t know for looking young man, in the prime of his life, sure. had been murdered. I wanted the killer caught. At the time, police had at least a little reason Two years ago, the Wilton Manors chief to be concerned. Henry and a former partner of police acknowledged to SFGN that Henry’s were involved in a very minor domestic death became a “cold case pretty quickly.” incident two months before his death that As with most ongoing investigations, set off a false alarm. It was a relationship that though, BSO refused to comment. Give me a soured, but resolved itself without further break. What are they really protecting? Could incident. There were some other disturbing it be their own neglect? The answer is yes, alerts in his apartment. Nothing came of the possibly. leads. So here is my opinion. I am fed up and Don’t be fooled by hearing Henry’s passing beyond disgusted when law enforcement was natural, not noxious. Our community can agencies plead they have to remain silent as a still be a dangerous place. Elderly gay men cover and an excuse to conceal that they may have been run over on the drive. Partners have dropped the ball on a particular case. have been murdered in their home adjacent to BSO has a legal obligation and public duty our most popular night clubs. Talented young to routinely update and report to a community men have overdosed, too many, too soon. about their ongoing investigations. Life is precious, but pernicious. It can The right to know is a two way street. be stolen away in a minute. Too often, it is. Those who preach that we should “see Henry’s life and passing was a dream denied.
Make yours a reality reached. Bad things happen to good people, whether we are in Wilton or Washington, Miami or Minnesota. Chance and fate make no appointments. Things just happen. They do. So it goes. So it goes. We can survive 18 months of chemotherapy today, step outside and get hit by a car tomorrow. That is the nature of life and death. When the man upstairs calls your name, there is no busy signal, no overtime, no video replay. Life is here. It’s now. It’s special. Every day is your Super Bowl. Cherish each inning. Go for the touchdown while you can. Don’t wait for the fourth quarter. Take your shot now. The future can be twenty minutes or
twenty years. The days are long, but life is short. Take the time to realize that ALL time is fleeting. There is no overtime. When you get to 70, you have seen too many Henrys. Try not to complicate things. Life will give you enough problems on its own without you adding to them. Follow the earnest advice of Rudyard Kipling in his spectacular poem, “If.” Give the unforgiving minute “sixty seconds’ worth of distance run.” All roses have thorns, but they are beautiful still. It’s a jubilant and joyous journey. Make sure you run your race well. Just bring some athlete’s foot cream along the way. The things that are intimately most personal are universally most common. WMG
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February 6, 2019
OUT NOW
ON A RED RACK NEAR YOU!
S O U T H
POWER
F L O R I D A
G A Y
N E W S Vol. 8 Issue 1 January 2019
AND
PRIDE
OUR WINTER ARTS &
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READ IT ONLINE AT THEMIRRORMAG.COM 15 •
February 6, 2019
PICTURED:LATRICE ROYALE.
PHOTO CREDIT: LATRICE ROYALE.
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Photos
Wilton Manors
Art Expo
The Wilton Manors Art EXPO hosted its highly-anticipated Art walk on the drive on Jan. 19. to join the excitement or learn more, visit www.wmae.org.
By Carina Mask
To see more photos and news from WMG, join us at Facebook.com/groups/ WMGazette
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February 6, 2019
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Visit www.squirt.org to hook up today 2.06.2019 •
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Convictions
Jesse’s Journal
The End of the Baby Boomers Jesse Monteagudo
I
n 1966, Time magazine’s “Man of the Year” was not an individual but a generation: people who were then twenty-five years of age or under. The Baby Boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, promised to change the world as we then knew it. Boomers marched in the Civil Rights movement. They fought in, and protested against, America’s War in Vietnam. They were active in the Feminist movement. They led the fight for LGBT rights and equality at Stonewall and beyond. Many Boomers died before their time: from war or terrorism or crime or other forms of violence; from substance abuse, cancer or AIDS. But, on the whole, Baby Boomers survived and prospered and changed the world along the way. I was born in 1953, which puts me smack in the middle
of the Baby Boom generation. But I am not here to praise my generation. I just want us to retire. The Baby Boomers’ moment of triumph came on January 20, 1993 when Bill Clinton became President of the United States. Since then, the Presidency has been held by Boomers: Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Donald Trump. Except for Obama, born in 1961, the Baby Boomer presidents were all born in 1946, the first year of the Boom. Even most of the major losing candidates were Boomers: Al Gore, Mitt Romney, Hillary Clinton. (John Kerry and John McCain preceded the Boom.) If he is re-elected in 2020 (God forbid!) Trump will be 78 when he leaves office in 2025. I am not saying that old folks cannot be effective leaders. Bernie Sanders would
a generation that gave the world Donald Trump or George W. Bush or even Bill Clinton cannot be considered to be a total success.
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make a good president in 2021 when, if still alive, he will be 79. But it is time for a younger generation to take over, so no more Hillary Clinton or Joe Biden. Fortunately, we have a younger generation candidates in the wings. These men and women are ready, willing and able to take over our country’s leadership. They belong to the two post-Boomer generations: Generation X, born between 1965 and 1980, and the Millennial Generation. These presidential hopefuls, so far, are all Democrats, since the Republican Party is firmly controlled by Trump (whose likely successor is his Baby Boomer Vice President, Mike Pence). Except for Elizabeth Warren, who was born in 1949, these Democratic hopefuls were born on the edge of or after the Baby Boom years: John Delaney (b. 1963),
Kamala Harris (b. 1964), Kirsten Gillibrand (b. 1966), Julian Castro (b. 1974) and Tulsi Gabbard (b. 1981). Even younger is Peter Buttigieg (b. 1982), a veteran of the War in Afghanistan, Mayor of South Bend, Indiana and an openly gay man. Quite a group to run against the unjustified and ancient Donald Trump. We who are Baby Boomers have had our day. We fought and died for the rights of all and sometimes we succeeded. But a generation that gave the world Donald Trump or George W. Bush or even Bill Clinton cannot be considered to be a total success. Perhaps Elizabeth Warren can show us otherwise. Meanwhile, I welcome the newcomers to the political arena, to show us what a Generation X or Millennial can do.
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.
Reach local LGBT communities across the nation. Start connecting with over a million loyal readers in print and online across the country. 212-242-6863 info@nationallgbtmediaassociation.com www.nationallgbtmediaassociation.com
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Christ Lutheran Church 1955 East Oakland Park Blvd. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33306
spirituality
www.christlutheranfl.org
Sunday Service @ 10am Fellowship after Service
SouthFloridaGayNews.com
Divine Mercy Chapel 2749 NE 10th Ave Wilton Manors, FL 33334 954-567-1930 - DivineMercy.church Service Time: Mass, Sunday 10:30am St. Nicholas Episcopal Church 1111 E. Sample Road, Pompano Beach (954)942-5887 - stnicholasfl.org office@ stnicholasfl.org Service Times: Sundays 8:00AM & 10:30AM (9:30AM only from Memorial Day through Labor Day) United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale 2501 NE 30th Street, Ft. Lauderdale (954)563-4271 - uccftl.org revpatrickrogers@gmail.com Service Times: Thursdays 10:30AM (Elliot Hall) & Sundays 10:30AM (Sanctuary)
Fort Lauderdale Friends Meeting
Simplicity Peace Integrity Community Equality Sustainability
Meets for Quaker silent worship Sunday at 11:00 AM SANCTUARY 1400 N. Federal Hwy. Ft. Lauderdale
A LITTLE BIT OF FAITH AND
PRIDE
SFGN is here for you, no matter who — or what — keeps you going. Read our Spirituality Section to stay in touch with your local religious LGBT community. The only requirement? Be yourself.
SEE MORE ONLINE AT SFGN.COM/TABLE/NEWS/RELIGION
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LISTINGS 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, FL 33334 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM Christ Lutheran Church 1955 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale. 33306 (954) 564-7673 - christlutheranfl.org pastordeborah@christlutheranfl.org Worship: Sunday 10:00am
FAITH & PRIDE spirituality
About Fort Lauderale
Friends Meeting (Quakers) Brian Humphrey
A
ll are welcome to join us in worship each Sunday from 11 AM to Noon. Shortly before 11 AM, we gather in quiet waiting, to begin worship. Quakers (a.k.a. the Religious Society of Friends, or “Friends”), have long supported LBGTQ equality. Friends were among the first to perform same-gender marriage ceremonies. The Fort Lauderdale Friends Meeting meets in a room called the Reception Center, at the Sanctuary Church: 1400 North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale FL 33304. To get to the Reception Center, follow the covered walkway leading from the right of the main church building. On the sidewalk, under the covered walkway, will be a sign reading “Quaker Meeting” and an arrow pointing toward our meeting room. How We Worship: There is no outward signal for the beginning of our worship. Our worship begins as we gather together quietly. As we settle into worship, we let go of all outward and distracting thoughts; and we move into a quiet, waiting attitude of spirit. Listening, rather than speaking, is our primary activity during worship. We open ourselves to experience the Divine Presence
within us and among us, and we listen for guidance and direction in our lives. Quakers cherish time spent in silent communion. Occasionally, someone may be led to communicate a vocal message, a prayer, a song, or a story with spiritual content. Anyone present may experience a call to such a ministry. After about an hour, the Meeting for worship closes with the joining of hands. At this time, we greet each other, introduce ourselves, and share announcements. Quakers believe that within each one of us, a portion of the “Divine Light” or the “Divine Spirit”, resides. We strive to nurture that divine presence within ourselves, and within every person. Quakers have established several regional, and national organizations to help us work in the world. Examples of National organizations are: Quaker United Nations Organization, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Right Sharing of World Resources, Friends World Committee on Consultation, and Quaker Earthcare Witness. Additionally, regional Quaker organizations mirror the above list. For example, some of the environmental initiatives by Quakers in the Southeast have gained national attention.
Finding Quakers in South Florida: Quakers in Fort Lauderdale: Fort Lauderdale Friends Meeting Sundays at 11 AM In the Reception Center at Sanctuary Church (Second Presbyterian Church) 1400 N Federal Hwy. (U.S. 1) Fort Lauderdale FL 33304
Quakers in Miami: Miami Monthly Meeting Sundays at 10:30 AM Early Worship: 8:45- 9:25 AM
www.fgcquaker.org/connect/quakerfinder/fort-lauderdale-friendsmeeting brianhumphrey@comcast.net 954-682-1433
www.fgcquaker.org/cloud/miamifriends-meeting clerk@miamifriends.org
Miami Meetinghouse 1185 Sunset Road Coral Gables, FL 33143
Quakers in Palm Beach: Sundays at 10:30 AM Friends (Quaker) Meeting 823 North A Street Lake Worth, FL 33460-2424 www.palmbeachquakers.org E-mail: pbquakers@gmail.com Phone: 561-313-6838
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Convictions
Seeing In The Dark
Debunking Digital Inclusion Yes, blind people can enjoy movies
Belo Cipriani
A
s a blind man, I often get asked by strangers, “Do blind people enjoy videos?” And my answer is always, “Hell yes!”
Whether it’s listening to stand up on “I still,” he continued, “have the developer YouTube, or binging on my latest guilty looking for a way to make it happen, though.” pleasure on Netflix, TV shows and movies Taylor shared most titles purchased are a big part of my life. Of course, before I through their site will have captions. In can even enjoy a show, the digital platform addition, movies accessed through affiliate needs to be accessible to my software, and websites, such as Amazon and iTunes, would videos need to offer descriptive audio for list the availability of accessibility features. the blind — a feature that narrates the nonWhile some of the platform was accessible spoken parts of a video. Then, and only then, via my assistive software, most of it was not. I can enjoy TV shows and films. Finding movie titles became a giant task and Through digital inclusion, more and I grew frustrated with the site. more businesses are making LGBT ally and attorney their content accessible, and I Albert Elia, 44, who is with It is ironic have served as an accessibility California-based TRE Legal, consultant for many companies. a civil rights law firm that that a company However, before I am an access specializes in access for the looking to specialist and advocate, I am a blind and other disabled fill a diversity consumer. people, believes the businesses So, when I heard about that have the most challenges gap in the GayMovie Database — a new, with accessibility are the ones entertainment online database of over 1,000 TV that do not incorporate it into shows, as well as short and long their operations. space missed out movies of interest to the LGBT “The businesses that have on engaging the community — I was all over it. the most difficulty meeting biggest minority Using my screen reader for the accessibility standards,” he blind, I logged on to GayMovieDB. said, “are those that ignore group – people com and ran across a few issues. them until they receive with disabilities. For starters, some of the buttons complaints from the disability and graphics on the site were community. They have not labeled, and thus undetectable to my difficulty complying with those standards assistive software. I did, though, find names because, having ignored accessibility until of movies on the site, but I was unsure if they their platforms are released to the public, contained descriptive audio for the blind or they have to retrofit their code to address closed captioning for the hearing impaired. access barriers at the same time that they I reached out to GayMovie Database are addressing other non-accessibility bugs for questions on the access of the site and or issues discovered by non-disabled users.” movies, and received a quick response from Elia, who is blind and a former software Brandon Taylor, who is 26, openly gay, and developer, believes the trend in the law is the Creative Director for the organization. moving towards requiring digital accessibility “Unfortunately,” he said, “due to the API according to technical standards. However, we are using for our information, there isn’t the U.S. does not yet have a set of federal an easy way to incorporate it into the site.” technical requirements.
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“The EU and Ontario, Canada,” said Elia, “do have specific technical requirements and some U.S. state laws offer broader protection for persons with disabilities than the ADA and other U.S. federal laws.” “The more likely that a business can be said to be offering a service,” he continued, “even if that service is selling products or information, the more persuasive is the argument that the service must be accessible in order to ensure that it is offered in a nondiscriminatory manner.” Elia points out that accessibility costs could be minimized if access is considered from the get-go. For example, companies can add accessibility testing to their processes, hire software developers with accessibility experience, use website templates that can be labeled for assistive software readability, and require vendors to warrant that their
products meet accessibility best practices. On Sept. 13, Orlando Entertainment Group announced the launch of GayMovie Database. The press release read as follows: “Orlando Entertainment Group, LLC, is pleased to launch GayMovie Database, the most comprehensive and easily navigable online database of over 1,000 titles of interest to the LGBTQ community.” Because I explored this site as a consumer, I can only say that it was not easy to navigate for a blind person – and nothing has changed after a few months. It is ironic that a company looking to fill a diversity gap in the entertainment space missed out on engaging the biggest minority group – people with disabilities. Perhaps someday in the near future, they will address their access problems. When that time comes, I will be happy to review their platform again.
Belo Cipriani is a disability advocate, an award-winning journalist, the prize-winning author of Blind: A Memoir and Midday Dreams, and the spokesperson for Guide Dogs for the Blind. Learn more at www.belocipriani.com.
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lifestyle two guys and a dog
We Never Know Who’s Listening Brian McNaught
Carson Kressley. Photo via Facebook.
C
arson Kressley, gay television celebrity, initially known for his key role in the first Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, and now on Bravo in Get a Room with Carson & Thom, is coming to Fort Lauderdale on Feb. 22, as a personal favor, to present me with an award from Stonewall. We’ve never met in person, but when I wrote Carson, and asked him if he’d come, he quickly responded that he’d be honored. Our lives intersected at an important time nearly forty years ago. In 1983, when I served the Mayor of Boston, Kevin White, as his liaison to the gay and lesbian community, my younger brother, Tom, also gay, and also working for the Mayor, sent me a newspaper clipping that said Carson Kressley, when asked why he felt comfortable as a gay student at Gettysburg College, replied, “When I was a freshman, they had Brian McNaught speak…” On a whim, I wrote him through his publicist, and got back a very meaningful note about my impact on his life. You just never know who’s listening. When the Stonewall National Museum, here in Fort Lauderdale, told me they were giving me their Legacy Award, I asked if they’d like me to see if Carson might come. I really look forward to meeting him face to face. If you don’t have plans that night, please join us. None of us knows how our words, actions, silence, or inaction impacts others. I’ve had the joy throughout my career of hearing how a talk, a book, or a video of mine had a positive impact on another person’s life. I’ve never gotten a swelled head, but I have gotten a swelled heart from learning this. I don’t make it about me. It actually has little to do with me. For me, for Carson, and for everyone else, is that when we positively impact others, we’re channeled the truth, humor, joy, pride, strength, clarity, and kindness of the Universe. It’s the light that seeks to shine through our window. And when we let it, it’s our legacy to those around us, and to those who will live after us. If I’m given time to speak after receiving the award for my legacy, it’s my intention to talk about the legacy we’ve created together as a generation of queer people, and our allies. After a talk at Notre Dame many years ago, I was approached by a Residence Advisor who told me that a gay student came out to him, and when he asked the student why he felt he could trust him with this very personal, mostly misunderstood information, the student said, “A couple of weeks ago, one of the R.A.s told an anti-gay joke, and you were the only one who didn’t laugh.” We never know who’s listening. Any person who was once heterosexually married with children, and came out, has been a full participant in this
None of us knows how our words, actions, silence, or inaction impacts others.
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extraordinary global awareness that “Being gay is not what I do. It’s who I am.” Any transgender person who transitioned while married, and while on the job, has been a full participant in the legacy of normalizing the fluidity of gender, in identity and in expression. Most older people in our community many years ago mustered the courage to go into a gay bar, risking the loss of a job. We seniors marched in early Pride parades where people threw firecrackers at us. We dared to write letters to the editor, using our real name, to be photographed lying in the street with Act Up, to lobby our congressional representatives, pastors and rabbis, and union bosses, to hold the hand of a stranger with AIDS, to come out in the Armed Forces, to hang the rainbow flag from our front porches, and to put decals and bumper stickers on our cars. We did this not in a welcoming environment because most straight and cis-gender people were uninformed, and frightened, and some dangerously hateful. Our vision of living whole, happy, safe lives in which we were valued by
our family and friends, and protected by our government, was the evolutionary call of the Universe, and our rising to the occasion is our legacy to all future generations globally. Because, while we were writing, speaking, protesting, coming out, burying our dead, creating our quilt, and getting married, other people, young and old, gay, bisexual and straight, Catholic and Jew, rich and poor, black and white we’re watching us, listening to us, and discussing us with others. And among them all, there were allies who stepped boldly forward on our behalf, and together, we changed the world forever. That’s our legacy. When my name and face were in newspapers and television news reports in Detroit in 1974, an envelop was left at the door of my home. It was from a 12-year-old boy down the street. The envelop had pictures of naked male statues, cut from a history book or encyclopedia. “I’m like you,” the note read. Seeing me be an openly gay man gave him the courage, like Carson Kressley, to come out. You just never know who’s listening.
See page 9 for more information on Stonewall’s annual gala, or visit Stonewall-Museum.org for more information.
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.”
LIFESTYLE photos
Latinos Salud’s 10 Year
ANNIVERSARY
On Feb. 2 at Design Center of the Americas (DCOTA) in Dania Beach, Latinos Salud and its many supporters gathered to celebrate a decade of success, featuring a guest appearance from “Project Runway” All Stars winner Mondo Guerra. J.R. Davis The Latinos Salud team.
Robert Boo and Roger Roa of The Pride Center.
Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis and Stephen Fallon.
Singer LeNora Jaye and DJ Alex Ferbeyre.
To see many more photos, visit South Florida Gay News on Facebook. 2.06.2019 •
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lifestyle bata’s beats
TOY - ‘Happy In The Hollow’ These guys are one of the greatest current rock bands John Bata
J
anuary and February are slow months paced, punk rock, spoken word, kinetic, for new music. Both tend to drag like encompassed in fast chaotic melodies like one long Monday -- leaving us feeling life flashing before their heavily eye linertrapped in the post holiday doldrums. A ed eyes, surrounded by hysterical drums lot of musicians wait until the summer for and sax. maximum sales and exposure. “Last Warmth Of The Day” could be But early on, sometimes, something a soundtrack to a Hitchcock film, then notable comes along to help jump start the brightens up and turns into something year. Here we have the 4th studio album by from a Quinten Tarantino flick, like clouds English indie band TOY from East Sussex, passing overhead. There are shades of to help us get through a major case of the 80’s band “Tones On Tale” but TOY the Mondays. This is a toy that should be still manages to come off as moderately appreciated and cherished – deserving original, a great feat, considering most much more attention in the everything has been done U.S. I believe they could before. “Warmth” fits be one of the greatest rock perfectly with the weather There are shades we have been having lately in bands currently working. of the 80’s band South Florida. Many including myself, have been anticipating where “Jolt Awake” is one of “Tones On Tale” they would go next after the best on the album. The but TOY still 2013’s -- must be heard -driving “Mechanism” -“Join The Dots” and 2016’s manages to come recalls, “Teenage Wasteland” acclaimed “Clear Shot.” by “The Who.” off as moderately On their new effort “You Make Me Forget “Happy In The Hollow,” original, a great Myself” feels like a distant they are experimenting to “The Cocteau feat, considering relative heavily with a sound which Twins,” and a lazy day was already experimental most everything at Brighton Beach on the to begin with and could be Southern Coast of England, has been done described as psychedelic, where Toy was formed. This before. maybe shoegaze, retro rock is the best track on an album or something along those that is very much an album’s lines. album -- meaning it should be TOY sampled heavily from past decades listened to from beginning to end to better -- mostly the 60’s and 90’s -- which is a understand their sound. very good thing. Both decades are known Only gripes are that the track order for producing some of the greatest music could have been altered for better flow and of our time. This band looks at making “Strangulation Day” excised reappearing music, as a child playing, full of wonder, somewhere as a b-side. endlessly creating, floating and drifting They were onto something great with along random thoughts and melodies. 2016’s “Clear Shot.” TOYS’s actual look in the recent past “Happy in the Hollow” is a little less mirrored the Beatle’s in videos and live focused and epic melody wise than their performances. Maybe they were just going past material -- a sublime understated through a post Sgt. Peppper’s Lonely Hearts addition to their near perfect discography. Club phase, with long straight hair past the It still holds up very well and a subtle shoulders, but their sound indicated that complex intelligence overrides — again. they were doing more then just playing dress up. They could be the more talented cousins to The Horrors and, The Doors’s grandkids when it comes to sound. On “Happy In The Hollow,” 2nd John Bata is a local DJ/music producer, writer, artist, photographer. He currently lives in Wilton Manors. track, “Energy” is just that, frenetic, fast
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TOY. Photo via Facebook.
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lifestyle food
Rick Karlin
Here’s the Beef
Three new burger joints open up in the Fort Lauderdale Area
L
ong ago in a galaxy not so far away, Wendy’s hamburger chain coined a catchphrase, “Where’s the beef?” that, as we now say, “went viral.” It became so popular that it was even used as the title of a porn film. With the opening of three new burger joints in the Wilton Manors/Fort Lauderdale area, we felt it was time to see how these newest places stack up.
Brgr Stop
1930 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-533-8621 brgrstop.com/ft-lauderdale All the creations on the “Craft Burgers” section of the menu feature an 8 oz. Angus beef burger (unless otherwise noted) and fresh cut fries. The selections are unique; for example, the La Loca comes crusted with Sweet Chili Doritos, Peppadew aioli, ghost pepper jack cheese and guajillo glaze. Some are sheer genius, such as the Le Magnifique which mimics a bowl of French onion soup; topping the burger with gruyere, caramelized onions and housemade dijonaise. Others just seem odd; peanut butter, tomato jam, yellow cheddar and candied bacon – which tasted spectacular. Special burgers average $15 while a basic burger (upon which you can add your own ingredients) is $12.95. An Impossible Burger, a new vegetarian option that has the mouth feel of actual ground beef, is $16.95. Apps (the only disappointment of the evening was the Captain Crunch coated chicken fingers), salads (the lemon chicken was fresh, fanciful and filling, with a huge portion), sandwiches (the deep-fried PB&J is a decadent delight), milkshakes (many flavored with your favorite childhood cereals) and (soon-if not by the time you read this) grilled steaks and chops, are also available, as well as craft beers, cocktails and boozy milkshakes. Service is friendly if not the most polished or attentive. There’s an additional location in Coconut Creek. Brgr Stop.
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Burgers & Beers. Photo via Yelp.
Burgers & Beers
2031 N. Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors 954-769-1875 facebook.com/pg/ burgersbeersWM/posts This is the latest place to take over the space at the south end of Wilton Drive, last home to a Hershey ice cream parlor. Although they’ve gotten generally good reviews for the burgers and hot dogs, they have no web site and no menu listed on their Facebook page. There are plenty of places to get a good burger on the Drive (Rosie’s, Mind Your Manors, Alibi, Rumors, The Grille). Without better promotion, I doubt this place will remain open long, no matter how good their food is. All food is cooked from fresh ingredients (they won’t even serve a veggie burger because they have to be kept frozen.) There is a grilled mahi sandwich as well as a bun full of grilled veggies for those who are not meat eaters. Beer and wine are available.
Shake Shack
2400 N. Federal, Fort Lauderdale 754-216-4398 shakeshack.com/location/ fort-lauderdale-fl The popular chain has finally opened a location in Fort Lauderdale. The chain is renowned for its incredibly juicy burgers, averaging $6-7, it also offers chicken breast, breaded portobello and split and grilled hot dogs. Equally popular are the decadent frozen custard creations. The Federal Highway location features an outdoor patio serving local brews from Wynwood Brewing Co., Due South Brewing Co. and Funky Buddha Brewery. The business started from a kiosk cart in Madison Square Park in Manhattan created to raise funds for art installations, so the Shake Shack name is not just a clever marketing ploy. In keeping with the charitable beginnings, the Fort Lauderdale
location is donating 5 percent of sales from its Pie Oh My custard “concrete” confection to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. Now you have a legitimate excuse to indulge in dessert.
Jack’s Old Fashion Hamburger House 4201 N. Federal, Fort Lauderdale 954-565-9960 jacksoldfashionhamburgers.com
beef ground fresh daily, and ranging in price from $4.50 for a quarter-pounder to $6.90 for a half-pound cheeseburger. Add-ons are all under a buck each. Other options include hot dogs, chili, a few sandwiches and salads. Milk shakes are old-fashioned hand-blended and thick. Jack’s Old Fashion Hamburger House.
Not new, Jack’s is an oldie but a goodie. There really was a Jack who pursued his dream of opening a “hamburger joint,” and on 4th of July weekend in 1972 he opened the Fort Lauderdale landmark. Generations of families travel miles to enjoy the freshground beef burgers served at the retro drive-in. Burgers are prepared just as they have been since the place opened, from
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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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THU
2/7
Concert Rebecca Clark stars in “Hello, Gorgeous! A Salute to Barbra Streisand,” tonight at 7 p.m. at the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center, 3385 N.E. 188th St. in Aventura. She’ll be singing your favorite songs from “Funny Girl,” “A Star is Born” and “Yentl,” along with Streisand’s greatest hits, “Evergreen,” “The Way We Were,” “Second Hand Rose” and “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers.” Tickets start at $37 at AventuraCenter.org.
FRI
2/8
Cabaret Seth Rudetsky, SIRIUS XM On Broadway host and unofficial “Mayor of Broadway,” is back at the Parker Playhouse, 707 N.E. 8th St. in Fort Lauderdale, and tonight at 8 p.m. he’ll be appearing with Broadway stars Sierra Boggess and Ramin Karimloo. They’ll share stories from their careers and sing a few of their favorite songs from “Love Never Dies,” “Phantom” and more. Tickets start at $37 at ParkerPlayhouse.com.
Sunday
2/10
Concert
Tonight at 8 p.m., Miami Beach Pride presents the original Dreamgirl herself, Jennifer Holliday, in a special fundraising concert at the Faena Theater, 3201 Collins Blvd. in Miami Beach. The Grammy- and Tony-winner will sing her favorite R&B hits, including songs from the Broadway show that launched her career. At 6:30 p.m. a VIP reception will also be held. Tickets start at $50 at JenniferHolliday.BrownPaperTickets.com. Photo Credit: KQ Photography.
SAT
2/9 SUN
2/10 MON
2/11 TUE
2/12
Concert
Television
Film
Television
Keith Lockhart and the legendary Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra revisit selections from the iconic movie scores of the incomparable American composer John Williams, including “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” “Indiana Jones,” “E.T.,” “Schindler’s List,” “Superman” and more. All of his theme songs—from galactic to gallant—get the full symphonic treatment at the Kravis Center at 2 and 8 p.m. Tickets at Kravis.org.
Tune into “Music’s Biggest Night,” the 61st Grammy Awards, tonight at 8 p.m. on CBS and CBS All Access. Alicia Keys will host the show, with performances by Miley Cyrus, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Shawn Mendes, Janelle Monáe and Diana Ross with a retrospective of her legendary hits. The Recording Academy will also honor Dolly Parton for her work with MusiCares. Check local listings for channels and show times.
As part of its African-American Film Festival, the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach will screen “Sparkle” at 7 p.m. Drawing inspiration from the real story of the Supremes, this 1976 classic is set in 1950s Harlem and tells the story of three musically gifted sisters who become an overnight singing sensation and then must deal with the pressures. Irene Cara and Philip Michael Thomas star. Tickets at Kravis.org.
They’re back! We can admit that the “Real Housewives” franchise on Bravo is one of our secret pleasures. Tonight at 9 p.m., the “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” launch season nine and all the publicity from the network says this season has to be seen to be believed. Ex-pat Brit Lisa Vanderpump may remain cool, but the rest are just a bunch of hot messes. Check local listings for channels and show times.
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WINTER CLASSES BEGIN FEBRUARY 9
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The cast of “Afterglow,” opening Feb. 14 at Wilton Theater Factory, includes Ian Patrick Stack, Mikhail Duggan and Ryan Knight.
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ven in the era of same-sex marriage, gay relationships can still be very complicated. “Afterglow,” the hit Off-Broadway play about the unexpected twists a modern gay couple must face in their marriage, opens next weekend in Wilton Manors. The show, which will receive its regional premiere Feb. 14 - March 10 at Wilton Theater Factory, is a raw, one-act play exploring the emotional, intellectual, and physical connections between three men and the broader implications within their relationships. Josh and Alex, a married couple in an open relationship, invite Darius home for an innocent three-way. When a lasting, intimate connection begins to form between them, all three men must come to terms with their individual definitions of love, loyalty and trust. Their futures are questioned, relationships shaken and commitments challenged. “Love, sex and relationships have always been complicated,” said Producer and Director Ronnie Larsen, who fought for the rights to present the regional premiere. “This is the first major play since we won marriage equality to examine how this new freedom is affecting our
relationships in a real way.” Gelman, the artistic director of The Stage, a leading English language theater company in Tel Aviv, is also a millennial, bringing a unique voice that is just now being heard in mainstream theater. Larsen and the cast workshopped the play with Gelman during rehearsals in New York City over the past several weeks. Larsen, who is also a prolific playwright and the creator of the OffBroadway hit “Making Porn,” said, “At the heart of all my plays has been the seeming contradiction between sex and commitment, but Gelman brings a fresh millennial perspective that I think will intrigue our older gay audiences.” Fans of Larsen’s productions will also not be disappointed as the play contains significant nudity and the infamous onset shower that had New York City critics and audiences buzzing when the play debuted in 2017. The cast includes Ian Patrick Stack as Josh, Ryan Knight as Alex and Mikhail Duggan as Alex. Local audiences will remember Duggan from his recent performance in Larsen’s comedy “3 Card Stud” at the Foundry at Wilton Theater Factory.
The regional premiere of S. Asher Gelman's "Afterglow" will be performed Feb. 14 – March 10, Tuesdays through Thursdays at 8 p.m. and Wednesdays at 3 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays at 7 and 10 p.m.; and Sundays at 3 and 7 p.m., on the main stage at Wilton Theater Factory, 2304 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. Tickets are $35 - $50 at RonnieLarsen.com.
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Music for Art
Duaiv, internationally acclaimeD visual artist Dimitri ashkenazy, clarinet
DUAIV, highly recognized throughout the world, frequently featured at events such as Florida’s own ArtBasel, will paint an original work on stage with simultaneous projections of him at work on a large screen above the orchestra, while the orchestra performs music of Debussy. The completed art piece will be available as a benefit to the Symphony. Dimitri Ashkenazy, clarinetist son of Vladimir, will travel from Switzerland to perform a concerto of an Impressionistic composer to complete this evening of Visual Music Impressions. Pre-Concert wine tasting and talk at 7:00 pm with Lyn Farmer, Director, Veritage, Miami
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A&E theater
Tony Edgerton tackles dual roles in Slow Burn Theatre Co.’s production of “Jekyll & Hyde.” Photo Credit: Rodrigo Balfanz.
SLOW BURN’S ‘JEKYLL’ IS AS CLOSE TO BROADWAY AS IT GETS J.W. Arnold
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Laura León, Acclaimed South Florida Soprano, is Norina in Gaetano Donizetti’s Comic Masterpiece
Don e l a u q s a P
Everyone schemes in this rambunctious romp about a beautiful bridezilla, her true love, a rich over-the-hill bachelor uncle, and a conniving physician. Presented by Opera Fusion at Pompano Beach Cultural Center
50 West Atlantic Blvd. Pompano Beach Saturday, February 16, 2019 at 7:30 pm Tickets at CCPompano.org or at the door 954 545 7800 $45 $35 $25
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urtain speeches are a quaint tradition in South Florida theater. Generally, the artistic director steps out before the beginning of the performance and either asks for money or thanks donors in the audience—or both. Sometimes these addresses are entertaining, but most often, they’re just something to be endured. At the opening night of Slow Burn Theatre Co.’s production of “Jekyll & Hyde” on Saturday night, artistic director Patrick Fitzwater and board chair Mark Traverso did just that, pleading for donations to cover the cost of new wireless mics necessitated by a change in FCC regulations and thanking a few of the donors in attendance. It was another comment from the effervescent Fitzwater that made me perk up in my seat. As always, he lauded the many talented actors, musicians, designers and craftsmen required to bring the show to life and emphasized that this was not a touring production of a Broadway show, but a truly local creation. In the moment, it sounded almost a little apologetic. I saw the last touring production of “Jekyll & Hyde” in 2012 starring “American Idol” rocker Constantine Maroulis that eventually wound up on Broadway the following year (It usually happens the other way around) and I can attest that Fitzwater and company’s production was superior in every way — every way. The second exciting announcement was that Slow Burn plans to become an Equity theater next season, an expensive and daring step as they commit to hiring union actors for the majority of roles in every production. The dark musical, adapted for the stage by Leslie Bricusse and Frank Wildhorn, would be a challenge for any professional company.
Tony Edgerton’s Jekyll/Hyde is a tormented being who commands every scene and slays “This is the Moment,” the breakout hit of Wildhorn’s score, triggering cheers from the audience. Carla Bordonada, the prostitute Lucy, delivers an equally powerful performance as a tainted woman in search of redemption. “Someone Like You,” the show’s ballad delivered by Lucy, offers a tender respite from the intense onstage action. Wildhorn’s self-indulgent score is big and equally challenging for the singers. Music director Paul Tine leads a lean seven-piece pit band that sounds like a full orchestra and the cast—Equity and non-Equity alike— field powerful voices that attack the solos and gritty ensemble numbers with ease. The cast is bolstered by many talented Slow Burn veterans, including Lindsey Corey, Matthew Korinko, Erin Pittleman, Courtney Poston, Sahid Pabon and Rick Pena, who does double duty as costume designer. Get those Equity cards, guys! Michael McClain’s versatile set, anchored by dual grand staircases, is impressive, especially when accentuated by hundreds of lighting cues from designer Thomas Shorrock. In fact, it’s the incredible lighting effects that elevate this production above the usual excellent work from Slow Burn. If this show doesn’t earn Shorrock a Carbonell Award next year, that will be a real travesty. Take note, judges. No, take that back. Slow Burn deserves several Carbonell awards, including musical direction, stage direction and best actor for Edgerton. After all, this production is every bit as good as a Broadway touring production (and possibly the Broadway production, for that matter).
Slow Burn Theatre Co. presents “Jekyll & Hyde” through Feb. 17 at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets start at $47 at BrowardCenter.org.
A&E press release Ernesto and Norina. Photo Credit: Opera Fusion.
FEB 20 KEY WEST TENNESSEE WILLIAMS THEATRE
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MONCAYO Huapango
Dynamic coloratura Laura León channels bridezilla in ‘Don Pasquale’
NIELSEN Symphony No. 4 The Inextinguishable
Carol Carnevale
Opera Fusion and Gulfshore Opera
E
veryone schemes in Donizetti’s comic masterpiece Don Pasquale, whose heroine, Norina, veers from refined betrothed to bridezilla, sabotaging a wealthy old lecher’s life until she finally weds her true love. This bubbly romp, presented in two acts with chamber orchestra, is a co-production of regional companies Opera Fusion and Gulfshore Opera. Acclaimed South Florida soprano Laura León is Norina. She also sings the part of Sofronia, a woman (really Norina) introduced to the elderly bachelor seeking a bride. The opera, set in Rome in the mid-19th century, is widely regarded as a comic masterpiece of the period. It premiered in Paris in 1843 to great acclaim and was quickly produced across the great opera houses of Europe. As the elderly Don Pasquale, veteran bass Tony Dillon leads the rest of the energetic young cast. Paul La Rosa, baritone, sings Dr. Malatesta, Don Pasquale’s physician. Zackery Morris, tenor, sings Pasquale’s nephew Ernesto, Norina’s true love. León is a coloratura soprano, meaning her fast, bright voice reaches stratospheric notes. She has performed in Spain at Madrid’s conservatory of music and studied with several prestigious voice coaches in Europe. A native of Cuba, León covered Norina for Florida Grand Opera, where she was a Resident Artist from 2015-2017. She recently sang as all four heroines in Tales
RACHMANINOV Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini Natasha Paremski, piano
of Hoffman with Opera Orlando, and the Orlando Sentinel critic called her “the heart of the show.” She recently performed as Queen of the Night in The Magic Flute with Orchestra Miami, as Pamina in The Magic Flute with Opera Louisiana, and as Zerbinetta in scenes from Ariadne auf Naxos in Opera Fusion’s Emerging Artists Program. Other Opera Fusion performances include The Sopranos: An Opera You Can’t Refuse, and Margarita Cerveza Tequila in Duelling Divas. Miami audiences know her from her many performances of zarzuela and musical theater. Dillon, of Clearwater, is known for his vocal and dramatic versatility. He has appeared with the Washington National Opera, Los Angeles Opera, Seattle Opera, New York City Opera National Company, Glimmerglass Opera, Glyndebourne Festival, Cleveland Opera, Michigan Opera Theater, Austin Lyric Opera and many regional companies. Music director of Don Pasquale is Juilliard graduate Gregory Ritchey. Stage director and set and lighting designer is Ardean Landhuis of Opera Fusion. Opera Fusion has performed at Sunshine Cathedral in Fort Lauderdale several times, including its 2016 debut of portions of its world premiere of Not In My Town, the first opera based on the Matthew Shepard story. The full opera was performed at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center. Landhuis was director and production designer of Not In My Town, and sang the role of Shepard’s broken-hearted father.
TEMPLE ISRAEL CHAMBER SERIES MIAMI, FL SUNDAY FEB 24
MUSSORGSKY
Pictures at an Exhibition with Natasha Paremski, piano
Brunch 11:30am Recital 1:00pm FOR TICKETS AND VENUE INFORMATION SOUTHFLORIDASYMPHONY.ORG | 954-522-8445
Tickets are available online at CCPompano.org or by calling 954-545-7800. Pompano Beach Cultural Center is located at 50 W. Atlantic Blvd.,adjacent to the City Hall downtown. 2.06.2019 •
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Top
Picks
The Producers
January 18 – February 10 at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, 3800 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill. Mel Brooks’ classic cult comedy film The Producers is now a big Broadway musical. Enjoy a show filled to the brim with in-your-face humor. Tickets $48 to $58. Visit LPACFL.com
The Spitfire Grill
February 1-24 at the Don & Ann Brown Theatre, 201 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach. The Spitfire Grill, a warm and uplifting show by James Valcq (book and music) and Fred Alley (book and lyrics) about starting over and second chances, forgiveness and redemption. Tickets $15 to $75. Visit palmbeachdramaworks.org.
Romeo and Juliet Ballet
February 8 to 10 at the King’s Academy, 8401 Belvedere Road in West Palm Beach. This romantic and yet tragic ballet features exciting sword fights, dramatic pas de deux, and vivid ensemble scenes. Prokofiev’s powerful score guides the Shakespearean tale of family feuds, young love, and tragic irony. Tickets $35 to $40. Visit balletpalmbeach.org.
February 6 - February 12 broward county ABBA MANIA
Wednesday, February 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Dr, Coral Springs. Two hours of uplifting, dance inducing and sometimes heart-breaking songs, fully live with fantastic staging, lighting and effects. Tickets $27. Visit theCenterCS.com.
Little River Band
Saturday, February 16 at 8 p.m. at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Dr, Coral Springs. Bringing their vocal and musical energy along with great arrangements to their timeless classic hits, each show creates new memories for the audience. Tickets $40. Visit theCenterCS. com.
Friday Night Sound Waves Music Series
Fridays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Hub, Las Olas Boulevard and A1A in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy live, outdoor music spanning genres and tributes every Friday evening through November. Free. Visit FridayNightSoundWaves.com
palm beach county Isle of Klezbos
Friday, February 15 at the Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Avenue, Delray Beach. NYC-based
Little River Band. Photo via Facebook.
ISLE of KLEZBOS approaches tradition with irreverence and respect. The soulful, funloving powerhouse all-women’s klezmer sextet has toured from Vienna to Vancouver since 1998. Tickets $40 to $45. Visit artsgarage.org.
Spitfire Grill
February 1-24 at the Don & Ann Brown Theatre, 201 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach. The Spitfire Grill, a warm and uplifting show by James Valcq (book and
* Denotes New Listing
music) and Fred Alley (book and lyrics) about starting over and second chances, forgiveness and redemption. Tickets $15 to $75. Visit palmbeachdramaworks.org.
‘We Will Not Be Silent’
February 7-24 at the Heckscher Stage theater space in Parliament Hall, Boca Raton. “We Will Not Be Silent” tells the true story of Sophie Scholl, a German college student who led the only major act of civil disobedience to the Nazis during the Second World War. Tickets $25 to $35. Visit fauevents.com
Free Friday Concerts
Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Enjoy live music from the comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn chair every week, for free! Returns in October. Call 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts.org.
miami-dade county Outdoor Music Series Third Thursdays at the Perez Art Museum Miami, 101 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Come out for live music from DJs and musicians by the bay. Drink specials available. Free with museum admission. Call 305-375-3000 or visit PAMM.org.
The Big Show
Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. at Just the Funny Theater, 3119 Coral Way in Miami. A collection of comedy mixing the likes of improvisation and sketches. Tickets $12. Call 305-693-8669 or visit JustTheFunny.com.
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PORN pulse
Reggaeton Artist Ozuna Blackmailed With ‘Intimate Video’ Hunter Houston
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eggaeton star Ozuna, 26, was the victim of a blackmail scheme involving an “intimate video” of himself taken while he was still underage. “We hope that this will serve as an example and message to all teenagers and adults to protect their privacy and avoid [such] regrettable situations,” said a statement by Ozuna’s label and management firm, Dimelo Vi. According to Ozuna, Kevin Fret, a Latin Trap singer, was the one who blackmailed him. No blackmailer was named in the press statement, but Ozuna’s attorney Antonio Sagardía stated that Kevin Fret, the openly gay trap singer shot and killed on January 10, claimed to have a video ideo of an underage Ozuna performing a sex act and demanded money. “Our attorney confirmed yesterday that
Ozuna. Photo via Facebook.
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urban artist Ozuna was extorted through an intimate video filmed when he was a minor. This video was edited [to cause] even more harm,” the statement by Dimelo Vi said. Ozuna, a married father of two, paid Fret $50,000 before contacting the FBI. Vicente Saavedra, Ozuna’s manager, stated his client has not been officially investigated or called to testify in the murder of Fret, according to Billboard. Reggaeton and Latin Trap are both musical styles that originated out of Puerto Rico.
Porn Pulse is a weekly column featuring news and tidbits on the gay porn industry. Have a tip? Send Hunter Houston an email at HunterHoustonSFGN@gmail.com.
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February 6 - February 12
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Top Picks
*Everglades Escape:
February 9 at Zoo Miami, 12400 SW 152 St, Miami. Join us for a walk on the wild side! Our evening adventures take you on a guided tour and include unique behind-the-scenes experiences with the zoo’s night-loving animals. Each month’s theme will visit a different area of the zoo. This month, explore the excitement found right here in your own backyard, with exciting encounters with black bears and alligators! Tickets $30.
Our Fund LGBT Philanthropy Awards
Saturday, February 9 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Tower Club, 100 SE 3rd Ave 28th floor, Fort Lauderdale. Join us for a special evening as Our Fund Foundation hosts its inaugural South Florida Philanthropy Awards to celebrate individuals and families whose generosity of time, talent and resources make a significant impact on South Florida’s LGBT community.
Wine and Romance
Thursday, February 7 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the NSU Museum of Art, One East Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale. Monthly wine pairing series, sample four great varietals of wine in time for Valentine’s Day with small bites paired with each wine. Tickets $30 to $40. Visit NSUArtMuseum.org.
PFLAG
Tuesdays in Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs and Southwest Ranches. A support group for parents of LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and locations.
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 *Runway Fashion Show
Thursday, February 21 at 7 p.m. at the Hard Rock Event Center, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood. Pride Fort Lauderdale opens with a glamorous runway fashion show hosted by “RuPaul’s Drag Race” All-Star Naomi Smalls and fashion guru Carson Kressley and featuring creative garments by talented “Project Runway” alumni designers. Tickets $25.
*Pride on the Drive
Friday, February 22 at 6 p.m. on Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors. the Pride Fort Lauderdale celebration moves to the “gayborhood,” Wilton Manors. Participating restaurants, bars and nightclubs along Wilton Drive will offer live entertainment, drink and food specials and more—all night long.
*Drag Brunch
Saturday, February 23 at 11:30 a.m. at the Ritz-
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Carlton Fort Lauderdale, 1 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. Pride Fort Lauderdale is teaming up with the famed South Beach Wine & Food Festival’s Crave Fort Lauderdale series for a boozy drag brunch. National radio personality Elvis Duran and fiancé Alex Carrare your hosts for this one-of-a-kind meal: Celebrity chefs will create new dishes inspired by the 10 gender-bending performers who will entertain on the Ritz-Carlton stage. Tickets $125. Visit SOBEWFF.org.
*Pride Parties and Parade
Saturday, February 23 12 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Paradise Step-Off, Fort Lauderdale Beach. Hotels, restaurants and bars along Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. are joining in on the fun beginning at 12 noon on parade day! Enjoy music and performances by popular drag performers at hotels, restaurants and bars along the parade route and live entertainment
on the parade main stage all afternoon.
*Pride Block Party
Saturday, February 23 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 5th Street at Seabreeze Blvd. There will be hot boy and girl dancers and special performances all evening long. It’s going to be an epic evening on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Free, $5 donation requested.
*Pride Festival
Sunday, February 24 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, 1100 Seabreeze Blvd. The highlight of the weekend is the Pride Fort Lauderdale festival, held on the pristine sands of Fort Lauderdale Beach. Explore the products and services offered by more than 120 vendors and exhibitors, taste cuisines from around the world, and dance to the music of internationally-acclaimed DJs Sushiman and Kidd Madonny.
palm beach county 34th Annual Palm Beach International Boat Show
March 28 to March 31. Attendees will enjoy live music and refreshments at the show’s famous floating cocktail lounges. Guests are invited to come by boat and may tie up to free docks located south of the in-water displays. Tickets $18 to $52. Visit PBboatshow.com.
Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival
January 20 to February 12 at AMC CityPlace 20. 29th annual The Donald M. Ephraim Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival will present movies from around the world, opening with PAPA, a heart-warming movie about an adopted son searching for his biological parents. Ticket prices vary, visit PBJFF.org or call 877-318-0071.
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 fir details.
Hard Bodies: Contemporary Japanese Sculpture
September 29 to March 31 at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. Organized by the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the thirty works by sixteen artists comprise the first-ever comprehensive exhibition of contemporary Japanese lacquer sculpture.
They have all been drawn from the Clark Collections at Mia, the only collection in the world to feature this extraordinary new form. Tickets $9 to $15. Visit morikami.org.
miami-dade county *Everglades Escape:
February 9 at Zoo Miami, 12400 SW 152 St, Miami. Join us for a walk on the wild side! Our evening adventures take you on a guided tour and include unique behindthe-scenes experiences with the zoo’s nightloving animals. Each month’s theme will visit a different area of the zoo. This month, explore the excitement found right here in your own backyard, with exciting encounters with black bears and alligators! Tickets $30.
Draw Event
Friday, February 22 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Art and Culture Center, 1650 Harrison Street, Hollywood, Fl Exposed turns art patrons into buyers during a fun and exciting night in which every ticket holder goes home with an artwork. Visit artandculturecenter. org.
Monica Lewinsky
Saturday, March 2 at 7:30 p.m. at the Temple EmanuEl, 1701 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach. Lewinsky will be discussing our online culture of humiliation, offering advice on how to overcome bullying, and drawing from personal experience. This event is open to the public, but will be a closed event to press and media. As such, the speaker’s remarks and Q&As will be off the record. Tickets $75 to $200. Visit tesobe. org/monicalewinsky.
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 Jazz in the Gardens
Sundays 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela St. in Key West. Wind down from the crazy weekend with a few hours of soothing jazz. Call 305-294-2661.
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2435 North Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305
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LGBT Non-profits BROWARD Pride Center 2040 N Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors (954) 463-9005 www.pridecenterflorida.org
Compass GLCC 201 N Dixie Hwy (561) 533-9699 www.compassglcc.com
Latinos Salud 2330 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors (954) 765-6239 www.latinossalud.org
HRC P.O. box 267, West Palm Beach (561) 346-1263 www.pbchrc.org
Poverello 2056 N Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors (954) 561-3663 www.poverello.org Sunserve 2312 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors (954) 764-5150 www.sunserve.org Care Resource 871 W Oakland Park Blvd, Fort Lauderdale (954) 567-7141 www.careresource.org Broward House 2800 N Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale (954) 568-7373 browardhouse.org Stonewall Library 1300 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale (954) 763-8565 www.stonewallnationalmuseum.org SAGE A, 2040 N Dixie Hwy #225, Wilton Manors (954) 634-7219 www.sagewebsite.org
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Window Treatment - We offer a high-quality, modern window treatment solution for your home, whether manual or motorized, controlled with a simple remote. Hitech-shades will help and guide you to create a custom window treatment solution to your requirements. Our commercial division has been working with contractors, decorators, builders, architects and designers offering the best cost effective equation for them and their customers. We are your one-stop shop solution for roller shades and blinds. Web: www.Hitech-shades.com, email: Hitechshade@gmail.com Contact Haim- 954-3983676
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954.530.4970 employment wanted SPECIAL HIRE NEEDED - Earn $45,000 per year. Experienced, self-motivated professional salesman needed. Work competitively in a highly flexible and relaxed LGBT-friendly environment. Fax resume to 954-530-7943. Help Wanted - Housekeeper - The Grand Resort and Spa is seeking a F/T, P/T or Seasonal Housekeeper for an all-male, clothing optional resort in Fort Lauderdale. Candidate should be efficient, detailed and dependable. Hotel/resort experience is a plus. Please supply work references. Send resumes to jobs@grandresort.net. NO PHONE CALLS.
CREEP OF THE YEAR
piano 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.
pool service COOL POOLS- RELIABLE POOL SERVICE Professional pool service.Covering Wilton Manors, Lighthouse Point, and eastside of Pompano Beach. 15 years experience. Licensed and insured.Free estimates. Call 954-235-0775.
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954.530.4970 rental - wilton manors Room for rent - Mature gentleman looking for same to share my modest home 2 miles from Wilton Manors. Private bedroom with cable TV, WiFi, shared bathroom, living area, den and modern kitchen. $600.00 per month all utilities included. Must be looking for long term. No Drama. First and security with good references and proof of income for background check. Paul Ianni 954-202-5643
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handyman HUSBAND FOR RENT - Is he procrastinating home repairs? He says he will do it tomorrow?? After the football game?? We fit right in - in the house or the yard, small or big jobs: tile, dry wall, paint, plumbing, roof leaks, broken furniture, irrigation, fences, and more! It doesn't cost to hassle us to see theWe’ll work - so why wait? Neat, clean work for a reasonable price. Pallant Insurance Team Handle It! 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. 954-870-5972 | gmanbenn44@gmail.com
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We have an immediate opening for a licensed Personal Lines Insurance Producer with at least 2 years experience. We www.PallantInsurance.com are a growing agency with a fast-paced environment. Base 1800 N.E. 26th StreetWe · Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305 salary plus commissions. are looking for individuals with customer service skills, proficiency with MS Office and agency management software, and Client Contact software.
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