SFGN 02/19/20 V11iss8 by South Florida Gay News

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BEGINS ON PAGE 27

february 19, 2020 vol. 11 // issue 8

WMG

HISTORIC PETE BUTTIGIEG HEADING TO NEVADA AND SOUTH CAROLINA IN HOPES OF CONTINUING FORTUNE PAGES 2, 8 - 11

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NEWS HIGHLIGHT

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MAYOR PETE’S CAMPAIGN RAMPS UP PRESENCE IN SOUTH FLORIDA AHEAD OF PRIMARY

Editorial

Senior Features Correspondents Jesse Monteagudo

Correspondents

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

Contributing Columnists

Brian McNaught • Terri Schlichenmeyer Dana Rudolph • Ric Reily

Associate Photographers Carina Mask • Steven Shires

Pete Buttigieg during a rally at a Union hall. Photo via Pete Buttigieg, Facebook.

Feb. 22

Sales & Marketing For ad placement in SFGN, contact 954-530-4970

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Feb. 22

Feb. 26

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VIRTUAL ’PHONE BANKINGNEVADA CAUCUS’ “THIS IS A HISTORIC CANDIDACY AND IT’S NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT FOR CITIZENS TO GET INVOLVED.” - JJ Litchford

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VIRTUAL ’PHONE BANKINGSOUTH CAROLINA PRIMARY’

“We are looking for more volunteers. All who want to help are welcome! We have events in nearly every county in Florida, at least once per week,” Litchford said. “You can learn more about Pete, donate to his campaign, and sign up to connect with Florida volunteers at PeteforAmerica.com.”

COVER: PETE BUTTIGIEG IN NEW HAMPSHIRE. PHOTO CREDIT: CHUCK KENNEDY/PFA.

Associated Press • 2 . 1 9.2020

Sales Manager • Justin Wyse Justin@sfgn.com Senior Advertising Associate • Edwin Neimann Edwin@sfgn.com Senior Advertising Associate • Clark Rogers Clark@sfgn.com Distribution Services • Rocky Bowell Bernard Wisneski Sales Consultant • Charles A. Reid National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping Printing by Sun Coast Press

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Feb. 19

Publisher • Norm Kent

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

ete Buttigieg’s campaign is ramping up its presence in South Florida before the state’s March 17 democratic primary. “The country is dangerously divided and Pete Buttigieg is the candidate best suited to bring together a broad coalition of Democrats, Independents and Future Former Republicans to defeat Donald Trump,” said JJ Litchford, Florida for Pete volunteer. “Pete has already proven himself in Iowa and New Hampshire, and we’re a group of volunteers working to help him prove that he can win in Florida as well. This is a historic candidacy and it’s never been more important for citizens to get involved.” Locally Buttigieg’s campaign has organized a number of events.

7:30 to 11:30 p.m. at UNCS, 1501 NE 26th St. in Wilton Manors.

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February 19, 2020 • Volume 11 • Issue 8

SFGN Winner of & 5 Florida Press Club Awards And runner-up for

NLGJA Journalist of the Year South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Copyright © 2020 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

HIVcare.org

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NEWS HEALTH

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

FIRST SAME-SEX COUPLE WEDS REPORT FROM HIV PLANNING BODIES JANUARY & FEBRUARY IN NORTHERN IRELAND Justin Musial

Sean McShee

obyn Peoples and Sharni Edwards became Northern Ireland’s first same-sex couple Wednesday according to NBC News. Same-sex marriage became legal in the country last month. Meanwhile NI’s next door neighbor the Republic of Ireland legalized same-sex marriage in 2015. “This means everything to us. Just to be married. This is my wife. I can finally say this is my wife,” Peoples told reporters after the ceremony attended by around 50 friends and family. “For Northern Ireland we need to be the faces […] to show everyone it’s OK. We fought so long and hard for this opportunity to be seen as equal and now we are here and it’s just amazing.” Northern Ireland is the 18th European jurisdiction to legalize gay marriage, according to the Pew Research Center. There are 22 jurisdictions where same-sex marriage is not legal and another 11 where some

This article discusses three meetings. First, it reports on the meeting of the HIV Planning Council (HIVPC). Second, it reports on two meetings of the South Florida AIDS Network (SFAN). The Broward HIV Planning Council (HIVPC) oversees the Ryan White Care (RWC) Program of Broward (RWC-Broward). The South Florida AIDS Network (SFAN) advises the RWC program of the Florida Department of Health in Broward (RWC-FL DOH Broward).

Photo credit: @sharniedwardsxo, via Instagram.

THE HIVPC MET ON JAN. 23

form of civil unions is legal. But marriage equality does not equal full equality. Julie Dorf, senior advisor to the Council for Global Equality said, not all countries that allow same-sex marriage allow couples to jointly adopt and cautions against equating the right to marry with freedom from discrimination.

The HIVPC can move funds between programs twice per year. The HIVPC moved $781,279 from underperforming programs to programs likely to meet or exceed their service goals. Elections for the HIVPC chair and vice-chair will occur on February 27. The current chair, Requel Lopes, and vice-chair, Claudette Grant, are seeking re-election. The HIVPC is seeking more people living with HIV to become members. SFAN MET ON JANUARY 10, AND FEBRUARY 7, 2020 In observance of Black HIV Awareness Day, Joey Wynn paid tribute to Ron Henderson, who died last October. Henderson worked as Statewide Minority AIDS Coordinator (FL DOH). Wynn described him as a straight Black man who fought to provide HIV services for Trans people as well as Gay and Bi men. Serena Cook (RWC-Fl DOH Broward) reported that RWC-FL DOH Broward has hired a new ADAP manager, Soliah Matthews. Cook reported that RWC cannot provide bus passes to Medicaid clients. According to Cook, Medicaid has its own medical transportation system. Greg Beltran (Midland Cares) pointed out that Medicaid and RWC services differ. RWC provides bus passes for trips to more service providers than Medicaid does. Ashley Mayfaire of TransSocial reported that SFAN now has a Facebook page (http://bit. ly/3bs8xFP). Bisiola Fortune-Evans (Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center) reported on PrEP use

Info via the Florida DOH.

among women at-risk for HIV. She said that some of their pregnant, HIV-negative clients are using PrEP. Michael Belusko (Mom’s Meals) presented on Mom’s Meal, a meal delivery service. They deliver two meals per day. Mom’s Meals tailors meals to diagnosis. Interested people should speak with their case manager. Joey Wynn (Midland Cares) discussed the lack of “disruptive innovations” in Broward’s “Ending the Epidemic” proposal. He stressed that, for years, Broward has led the country in new HIV diagnoses. He said, “The system is broken, fragmented, non-responsive. It is not patient centered.” He argued that Fl DOH Broward needs to change how they do things. Wynn stressed the need to consolidate eligibility across RWC, HOPWA, and ADAP programs. FEDERAL BUDGET The National Association of State and Territorial AIDS Directors reported that Trump’s proposed 2021 budget would maintain current funding for RWC and the Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative. That budget, however, would cut nine percent from other programs of the Department of Health and Human Services. The New York Times reported that this proposed budget, over time, would cut about $1 trillion dollars from the funding for the Affordable Care Act (ACA). It would cut the ACA’s Medicaid Expansion and income subsidies. As Florida has refused to expand Medicaid, those cuts would have minimal impact in Florida. ACA’s income subsidies, however, enable many Floridians to purchase health insurance. Those proposed cuts would impact Florida.

ANNOUNCEMENTS TRANSPRIDE will hold a planning meeting from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on February 26 at Midland Cares, 1421 E Oakland Park Blvd.

• 2 . 1 9.2020

TRANSSOCIAL will host a free housing rights clinic on Wednesday, March 4th from 6 to 8 p.m. at Midland Cares, 1421 E Oakland Park Blvd.

NEXT SFAN MEETING: Thursday, March 5, at 6:00 p.m. at Holy Cross Healthplex, 1000 NE 56th St., Fort Lauderdale. SFAN welcomes newcomers.

NEXT HIVPC MEETING: Thursday, February 27, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. at Broward Government Center, 115 S. Andrews Ave, Room GC-430.

NEWS MIAMI-DADE

City Hall, Miami Beach. Photo via Philip Levine, Facebook.

CITY OF MIAMI VOTES TO CREATE LGBT ADVISORY BOARD Jason Parsley

he City of Miami last week legislation is developed in a way that sends unanimously voted to create an LGBT a clear message to LGBTQ people, especially advisory board. our youth, and most vulnerable that they The board will advise the City are wanted and respected in Miami-Dade,” Commission, mayor, city departments and Gonzales added to SFGN. governmental entities on issues that impact Commissioner Joe Carollo led the initiative the LGBT community. as the prime sponsor of the ordinance. “The creation of an LGBTQ Advisory Commissioners Ken Russell, Alex Diaz de la Board is a great step forward in keeping the Portilla, Manolo Reyes, and Mayor Francis commission informed and Suarez were co-sponsors connected to the LGBTQ “Representation is critical community’s challenges “REPRESENTATION as we continue the fight and opportunities that face full equality across the IS CRITICAL AS WE for them in the City of Miami,” state of Florida. The City of Orlando Gonzales, Executive Miami Commission’s vote to CONTINUE THE Director of SAVE, said in a create an LGBTQ advisory FIGHT FOR FULL press release. board is an important step According to Gonzales EQUALITY ACROSS to ensuring the community the board address such has a seat at the governing THE STATE OF topics as public policy and table,” said Brandon Wolf, quality of life issues in youth media relations manager for FLORIDA.” homelessness, health care Equality Florida. “We applaud - Brandon Wolf access for people who are the Commission and look MEDIA RELATIONS MANAGER transgender, addressing forward to replicating their FOR EQUALITY FLORIDA the high rate of HIV efforts across the state.” transmission, maintaining This advisory board comes basic protections against discrimination on the heels of Miami-Dade creating an and hate crimes, sensitizing public services LGBTQ Advisory Board last October. and police force around domestic violence The Miami-Dade initiative was sponsored in the community, and protecting the ever- by Commissioner Eileen Higgins, District 5. growing population of older LGBT adults. That vote was unanimous as well. In addition the board will have a chance According to a previous press release to look at policies retrospectively to correct the county board “will serve to address policy areas that are not as inclusive as they quality of life issues and propose policy could be when they were created. recommendations to address social, “This is also an opportunity to advise economic, cultural, and political problems prospectively to ensure that future facing the LGBTQ community.” 2.19.2020 •

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

BY JOHN PORTER

GAY VINE THE

DANCE

MUSIC

BROOKS LAICH LOOKS TO THE FUTURE

THE GRAMMY’S GET GAY!

Dancing with the Stars alum, Julianne Hough and NHL star husband Brooks Laich have hit a rough spot in their short marriage. The NHL star opened up about his marital rough patch on his Podcast “How Men Think” confessing that he doesn’t feel “100 percent fully expressed” in his true sexuality and that he is now taking a “pleasure first” approach to his life. Julianne Hough has been very open about her fluid sexuality proclaiming to her then fiancé before tying the knot that she’s “not straight.” Soon after reports of the pair splitting hit, the two reunited at the airport. There, Laich wore his ring, while Hough was noticeably seen without it. Hough has been ringless since before Christmas and Laich hasn’t shared a

Julianne Hough (left) with Brooks Laich. Photo via Facebook.

photo with his wife on social media since Thanksgiving. Only time will tell if this Hollywood pair can find a path through their sexual awakening.

The 62nd Annual Grammy Awards included an unprecedented number of wins for out LGBT artists including Brandi Carlile and Lil’ Nas who took the world by storm this year with his massive hit “Old Town Road.” Out Artist Brittany Howard, known for her howling soul power-house voice from Alabama Shakes joined LGBT ally and host Alicia Keys for a moving performance. Howard is also a 2020 GLAAD Media Award nominee. Out Actor Ben Platt who starred in this year’s Netflix hit “The Politician” introduced Ariana Grande’s performance and went on to sing a tribute to musical education in schools. DJ Tracy Young became the first lesbian to win in the “Best Remixed Recording” for her track “I Rise (Tracy young’s Pride

DJ Tracy Young. Photo via Tracy Young, Facebook.

Intro Radio Mix), a remix of Madonna’s “I Rise.” Tyler, The Creator, picked up a win for Best Rap Album for Igor.

HISTORY

CELEBRITY

BROOKLYN PARK RENAMED AFTER LGBTQ ACTIVIST MARSHA P. JOHNSON

MADONNA GETS SERVED

Marsha P. Johnson, an iconic New York City LGBT activist will have a Brooklyn Park named after her, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced. Johnson was active early in the fight for equality and was very involved in the Stonewall uprising, where she confronted the police during the six nights of violence. The Stonewall uprising was a turning point for gay rights in New York City which was sparked by police raiding the now registered historic landmark gay bar in Greenwich Village in 1969. Johnson continued to fight for trans rights until her death in 1992. Since then, her stature in the LGBT movement has only grown. Marsha P. Johnson’s legacy will now be enshrined in a state

KEEP UP WITH THE CELEBRITIES IN OUR COMMUNITY

• 2 . 1 9.2020

Marsha P. Johnson.

park on the waterfront in Brooklyn. Marsha P. Johnson Park sits on seven acres in Brooklyn with a view of the Manhattan skyline.

Two disgruntled concertgoers have served the Queen of Pop with a lawsuit claiming she didn’t take the stage until hours after she was supposed to. Queens resident Antonio Panos and New Jersey resident Andrew Panos claim they bought tickets to see the “Like a Virgin” singer at the BAM Opera House as part of Madonna’s small venue theatre tour. The suit alleges the show was set to kick off at 8:30 p.m. but didn’t actually start until 11:30 p.m. and now the fans say they want relief as an act of contrition by the singer. The pair have filed a class-action suit in Brooklyn Supreme Court against the iconic songstress, along with concert promoter Live Nation, claiming false advertising. Madonna has long been plagued with

Madonna. Photo via Madonna, Facebook.

complaints of tardiness throughout her career and it looks like her fans have finally had enough. Velotta and Panos are seeking unspecified damages.

NEWS NATIONAL

FIRST OPENLY LESBIAN FEDERAL JUDGE PASSES SFGN Staff

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ederal District Judge Deborah A Batts, the first openly lesbian federal judge when she was appointed to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York by President Bill Clinton in in 1994, died Sunday, February 2, at the age of 72. Judge Batts’ nomination by President Clinton to the federal bench in 1994 was a watershed moment for openly LGBT people in the legal profession. Sharon McGowan, Legal Director and Chief Strategy Officer at Lambda Legal noted that Batts, a former prosecutor, was “an inspiration to so many in the legal world; an individual who was the embodiment of the highest standards of professional excellence.” Lambda Legal is a national organization committed to achieving full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and everyone living with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work.

Fourteen Years Serving the CommUNITY

Deborah A. Batts. Photo via UCLA, YouTube.

More than 25 years after Judge Batts’ historic confirmation, there has only ever been one other black lesbian elevated to the federal bench. McGowan called that “unacceptable,” declaring that “LGBTQ people of color in the legal profession are far too often overlooked for positions of leadership and public trust, including federal judge ships. That must change. We honor her memory by strengthening our commitment to diversity within our judicial system, and in the legal profession as a whole.”

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NEWS NATIONAL

MAYOR PETE CONTINUES HISTORIC CANDIDACY IN N.H. TAKES SECOND IN VOTES, TIES FOR DELEGATES

Lisa Keen

Keen News Service

GBT leaders in New Hampshire were widely divided on who to support in Tuesday’s Democratic presidential primary, but the LGBT community could celebrate another history-making performance by openly gay presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg.

Buttigieg, who won the greatest number of state delegates in the February 3 Iowa caucuses, won the same number of delegates (nine) as Sanders in New Hampshire but came in second in terms of votes. Speaking to a rally crowd in Nashua close to 11 p.m. EDT, Buttigieg thanked the crowd for supporting a “new generation” of leadership. He thanked his grassroots supporters around the country, highlighting first “the woman in Minnesota who donated State Rep. Geri Cannon and former State [to the Buttigieg campaign] in honor of the Rep. Jim Splaine endorsed former Mayor wife she lost to lung cancer….” Early in his speech, he said, “Thanks to Pete Buttigieg, who finished second with 24 percent of the vote. Chasten, the love of my life,” to U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, cheers from the crowd. “A CAMPAIGN who came in third place with “A campaign that some said percent of the vote, did shouldn’t be here at all showed THAT SOME SAID 20 not have any high-profile that we are here to stay,” said SHOULDN’T BE LGBT endorsements in New Buttigieg. Hampshire. U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, HERE AT ALL State Reps. Ed Butler, Lisa who hails from the next state Bunker, and Joyce Weston SHOWED THAT over in Vermont, came in first in and former New Hampshire New Hampshire with 26 percent WE ARE HERE Stonewall Democrats co-chair of the vote. Gail Morrison backed U.S. TO STAY.” Sanders came out to give his Senator Elizabeth Warren, victory speech while Buttigieg - Pete Buttigieg who came in fourth, with nine was speaking to his rally, PRESIDENTIAL percent of the vote. prompting C-SPAN and other CANDIDATE Somersworth’s openly gay major networks to cut away Mayor Dana Hilliard supported from Buttigieg. On stage just a few feet away from the former Vice President Joe Biden, who came podium where Sanders spoke was well- in fifth with eight percent of the vote. And U.S. Rep. Chris Pappas, whose known New Hampshire LGBT state activist Mo Baxley, who served as Sanders’ deputy Congressional district frequently flips between Democrats and Republicans, stayed political director.

• 2 . 1 9.2020

Pete Buttigieg. Photo via Facebook.

steadfastly neutral, refusing to say, even after the polls closed, who he voted for. Buttigieg’s second place finish continues his history-making performance as an openly gay candidate and suggests that, so far, voters are more impressed by his intelligence, temperament, military service, and values than they are focused on his sexual orientation. He also demonstrated during the past week that he could prevail despite numerous attacks by his competitors. After Buttigieg edged out Sanders in securing delegates to the Iowa state convention last week, he became the target of pointed criticism from other candidates. During the Feb 7 debate, Biden said Buttigieg has not demonstrated the ability to win a “broad scope of support across the spectrum, including African Americans and Latinos.” The Biden campaign began running an attack ad deriding Buttigieg’s record as South Bend mayor, characterizing it as as installing “decorative lights” and “decorative bricks,”

language that some activists thought sounded like a subliminal effort to draw attention to Buttigieg’s being gay. “It was as homophobic as it gets,” said gay Democratic activist David Mixner, who has endorsed Buttigieg. The LGBTQ Victory Fund issued a press release condemning the ad, calling it “petty and demeaning.” “As a former mayor myself,” said Victory Fund President Annise Parker, former mayor of Houston, “I find it insulting that he would belittle the important role mayors play in the everyday lives of their residents….Biden’s team must be reading some terrible poll numbers for them to release such a desperate ad against a fellow Democrat. It’s time they refocus their fire at Donald Trump.” Parker applauded Buttigieg’s second place finish in New Hampshire, saying it was a strong answer to questions about Buttigieg’s electability. “It shatters the notion that an openly gay candidate can win in only the most liberal hotspots,” said Parker, “and underscores

NEWS NATIONAL Pete’s position as the best candidate to unite It was his fourth of five campaign events of Americans in defeating Donald Trump. the day, coming the day after the marathonThat the historic nature of his candidacy long caucuses in Iowa the night before. He is relatively subdued is a testament to said his victory in Iowa “validates for a kid our progress as a nation. With enormous somewhere in a community wondering if momentum heading into the upcoming he belongs, or she belongs, or they belong primaries, it is clear America is ready to elect in their own family — that if you believe its first openly gay president.” in yourself and your country, there’s a lot Former New Hampshire State Rep. backing up that belief.” Jim Splaine, one of the LGBT leaders in Buttigieg has repeatedly said he is not securing marriage equality there, waited trying to be “the gay candidate,” but his until primary day to announce his support. campaign is aware that his being gay could In a Facebook post, he noted, have more impact in South “I have seen many candidates, Carolina, where about 29 and I have personally met every “IT SHATTERS THE percent of the population is one of those who has served African American. A ButtigiegNOTION THAT as President since 1964,” wrote commissioned focus group of Splaine. “…In Pete Buttigieg, I AN OPENLY GAY African Americans in South see the makings of another John last fall suggested they CANDIDATE CAN Carolina F. Kennedy. A candidate who wanted Buttigieg to keep his can inspire, unite, and motivate WIN IN ONLY THE sexual orientation more lowthe people of our country to be key. And a FiveThirtyEight. MOST LIBERAL better than we have been.” com analysis of South Carolina But Splaine, too, noted polling, published Tuesday, HOTSPOTS.” the importance of Buttigieg’s showed Buttigieg in sixth place - Annise Parker success to the LGBT community with only 6.6 percent support. LGBTQ VICTORY FUND specifically, saying “every time The South Carolina primary is PRESIDENT Pete Buttigieg does well in an February 29. election … a boy or girl thinking The next voting takes place that they are all alone now feels that they in Nevada, which holds its caucuses on Feb. more belong.” 22. And the next presidential debate will take “And that’s important, especially to me place Feb. 19. because I felt that way for years during the Buttigieg is one of only five candidates younger part of my life,” said the 72-year- to qualify that that debate, thus far, but old Splaine. “Someday, I hope [being gay] the Democratic National Committee has just doesn’t matter. But, as we see in many modified its qualifying criteria in a way that examples around our nation every day in may allow former New York City Mayor Mike many ways, it still really does matter.” Bloomberg to participate. Buttigieg’s awareness of the impact of his Meanwhile, three Democratic hopefuls success on young LGBT people was apparent pulled out of the race since the polls closed this week, too, when he choked up briefly in New Hampshire: businessman Andrew during remarks to a town hall gathering at a Yang, U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and middle school in Laconia, New Hampshire, former Massachusetts’ Governor Deval February 4. Patrick.

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2.19.2020 •

NEWS LOCAL

FORMER REPUB. CHAIRWOMAN REGISTERS AS DEMOCRAT

TO VOTE FOR MAYOR PETE Anthony Man Sun Sentinel

indy Guerra, a former chairwoman of the Broward Republican Party, changed her party registration this week to become a Democrat.

She said she did it so she could vote for Pete everything that is happening was going to Buttigieg in Florida’s March 17 Democratic happen. I didn’t really imagine it was going presidential primary. to be quite as bad, but here we are.” There are two reasons. One, Guerra is Guerra said she views Trump as divisive, a impressed with Buttigieg, the former mayor bigot and misogynistic. of South Bend, Indiana, who finished a “Anyone who thinks he knows more close second in this week’s New Hampshire than the generals and mocks people with primary. “I find him very impressive. I do disabilities and mocks war heroes, I don’t think he’s qualified.” want as a leader of our country.” The second reason: President Donald The booming stock market isn’t a Trump. sufficient reason to support “Here’s the thing: I am Trump. “It’s bigger than our not going to vote for Donald 401(k)s and it’s bigger than Trump — ever. I think Pete our investments and our Buttigieg is far more qualified stocks. Like everyone else, my than Donald Trump. I think stocks are doing better, but he’s far more intelligent. I sometimes we have to rise up think he is far more humane,” and put our country first.” “I think Pete Guerra said. “We need a Guerra, who lives in change.” Broward and works in Palm Buttigieg is far After three years of the Beach County, was an assistant more qualified Trump presidency, Guerra attorney general under said it wasn’t hard to register former Attorney General Bill than Donald as a Democrat. “The moment McCollum. Trump. I think that the party supported She was vice chairwoman Donald Trump, that’s when of the Broward Republican he’s far more I knew that I was not part of and won a contentious intelligent. I think Party that party.” election for the top job in 2010 he is far more Still, Guerra remained a when the previous chairman, Republican through the 2016 Chip LaMarca, stepped down humane.” election, but later switched to run for Broward County - Cindy Guerra her registration to no party Commission. FORMER REPUBLICAN affiliation. Guerra was seen as a POLITICIAN Even as a Republican, she moderate by many, and was was an outspoken voice for opposed by conservatives and Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, who the tea party wing of the party, which was a lost to Trump in 2016. Guerra approached growing force in Republican politics at the the Clinton campaign and appeared in TV time. Guerra didn’t run for re-election as and radio ads for her. party chairwoman at the end of 2010. “I knew this was not going to work out,” In 2016, she supported former she said. “I supported Hillary Clinton Florida Gov. Jeb Bush for the Republican because there was no way I was going to presidential nomination, but said she could support Donald Trump because I knew that have voted for any of the party’s presidential

• 2 . 19.2020

Cindy Guerra, a former chairwoman of the Broward Republican Party who was still a member of the party, appeared in an ad for Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton in 2016. In 2020, she changed her party registration to Democratic to vote for Pete Buttigieg in the Florida Democratic primary. Image via YouTube.

candidates — except Trump. “I am sorry to see that,” said George Moraitis, the current Broward Republican chairman, who was an early 2016 supporter of Trump. In a text message, Moraitis said, “President Trump has done a great job with the economy, our national security and immigration and she unfortunately fails to appreciate the president’s accomplishments.” Richard DeNapoli succeeded Guerra as Broward Republican chairman and is now the county’s state party committeeman. He was one of the area’s earliest Trump supporters

in 2016, when many other South Florida party leaders were supporting Bush or U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., for president. DeNapoli’s response to Guerra: “President Trump has done a wonderful job on ALL fronts,” he said Friday by email. “There’s no pleasing the elitist attitudes of the ‘Never Trumpers’ out there, and they have ZERO credibility when they refuse to acknowledge President Trump’s many accomplishments beyond his wonderful work that has made our economy great again.”

NEWS WHITE HOUSE WATCH

IS IT HORSE TRADING TIME? Biden falling, Bloomberg rising in Dems race

John McDonald

he field is shrinking and a former Vice President appears to be fading as the U.S. presidential campaign heads to Nevada. “I believe Biden is done,” said former Congressman Mark Foley. “I think he was done long ago. I think his stumbles on the trail have made people very leery of putting him up against Trump.” Foley, a Palm Beach County Republican, was a guest on the John Phillips Show on Feb. 10. He joined the Los Angeles radio host to discuss the campaign. Biden, veep to President Barack Obama, finished fourth in the Iowa Caucus and fifth in the New Hampshire primary. Next up are Nevada (Feb. 22) and South Carolina (Feb. 29). “In my analysis South Carolina will be so deflated towards the Biden candidacy watching how he’s performed in three important states relative to the calendar,” Foley said. “I think there’s going to be a lack of enthusiasm and a reality check that we better switch horses somewhere.” Former South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg leads in the delegate race with 22, followed close behind by U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont with 21. “The surprise candidate really for everyone is Pete Buttigieg who emerged out of Iowa,” Foley told the radio program. “He predicted his win out of Iowa that very night. It took them four days to calculate their results to award him what he already knew. It’s pretty exciting to watch. I don’t think it’s indicative of the final direction of the race.” Listen to the show here: Kabc.com/thejohn-phillips-show/ Meanwhile, on another radio program, conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh got caught up in Buttigieg’s affection towards his spouse, Chasten. Limbaugh, who was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom at this year’s State of the Union address, said voters are not ready for a gay president. LIMBAUGH’S COMMENTS: Then they’re sitting there and they’re looking at Mayor Pete, a 37-year-old gay guy, mayor of South Bend, loves to

ASK US ABOUT:

Joe Biden. Photo credit: Gage Skidmore, via Flickr.

kiss his husband on the debate stage, and they’re saying, ‘Okay. How’s that going to look, a 37-year-old gay guy kissing his husband on stage next to Mr. Man, Donald Trump? What’s gonna happen there?’ They gotta be looking at that, they’ve gotta be saying that despite all the great progress and despite all the great wokeness and despite all the great ground that’s been covered, America’s still not ready to elect a gay guy kissing his husband on the debate stage president. They have to be saying this, don’t they?

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Elsewhere, former New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg appears to be picking up steam in the Democratic field. Bloomberg recently gained the endorsement of Congressman Ted Deutch, who represents parts of Broward and Palm Beach Counties in Washington. “I am proud to endorse Mayor Mike Bloomberg for President,” Deutch tweeted. “As a gun violence prevention champion, he will make gun safety a national priority. Mike will urgently confront climate change & will restore America’s global leadership with integrity and honesty. I’m with Mike. @ Mike2020.” Bloomberg, the billionaire philanthropist, also picked up a straw poll victory at last month’s Dolphin Democrats meeting. The South Florida LGBT political club favored Bloomberg over Buttigieg and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts.

White House Watch is a weekly column taking a look at the state of the 2020 presidential election. 2.19.2020 •

PALM BEACH DATEBOOK ART AFTER DARK FRIDAYS FROM 5 TO 10 P.M. AT THE NORTON MUSEUM OF ART, 1450 S. DIXIE HWY, WEST PALM BEACH View an exhibition, attend a talk, participate in an art activity, enjoy a performance, concert, or film, sip cocktails, and dine in the Museum’s elegant new bar and restaurant. Free admission. Visit Norton.org. PALM BEACHES PRIME TIMERS SECOND SATURDAYS AT 3 P.M. AT COMPASS GLCC, 201 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY IN LAKE WORTH An active fraternal and social organization dedicated to bring together mature gay and bisexual men for friendship, activities, support, and personal growth for the best times of our lives. Free. Call 561-533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com. STD TESTING AND FLU VACCINATIONS FIRST THURSDAYS FROM 3 TO 6 P.M. AT COMPASS GLCC, 201 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY IN LAKE WORTH The Department of Health comes monthly. Call 561-533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.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. COFFEE CLATCH AT COMPASS FIRST MONDAY OF EACH MONTH FROM 10 A.M. TO NOON AT COMPASS, 201 N. DIXIE HWY, LAKE WORTH A social group focusing on the mature LGBT+ community in Palm Beach County, providing a relaxed environment for meeting friends, discussing interesting topics, and engaging in community projects. Free to attend, email joekolb@ compassglcc.com for details. TRANSCENDENCE MEETS AT COMPASS GLCC, 201 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY IN LAKE WORTH A closed transgender youth support group for teens ages 12 to 19. For more information, email youth@compassglcc.com.

• 2 . 19.2020

PA L M B E A C H

news

HAVERHILL TOWN COUNCILMAN MARRIES PARTNER IN FLORIDA CAPITOL CEREMONY John McDonald

hey promised to love, care and annoy each other into eternity.

On Wednesday, in a packed office on the third floor of the Florida Capitol building in Tallahassee, Daniel Sohn and Kaitik Chan were married. It was the first same-sex wedding performed at the Florida Capitol, where same-sex marriages were once banned. Sohn, 28, a Haverhill town councilman, met Chan, 31, a sales and marketing professional within exports and trades, on the dating app Tinder. They instantly hit it off and soon began dating exclusively, both attracted to each other as well as mildly irked by differences in personalities. “The truth is other people were hoping that we would give up on each other and I’m so glad that we didn’t,” Chan said during the reading of the vows. “While you are not perfect, sometimes I get annoyed by your energy and hyperactivity, you are the most loving and grounded person on earth and not to mention very handsome.” Sohn, acknowledged the historical moment of the ceremony, recalling how he had roamed the halls of Florida’s Capitol as an aide, activist and public official since he was 11. He fought back tears as he read his vows to Chan.

“UP UNTIL FIVE YEARS AGO THIS DAY, OUR DAY, WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE AND CERTAINLY NOT ACCEPTED WHERE WE ARE STANDING.” - Daniel Sohn

HAVERHILL TOWN COUNCILMAN

Daniel Sohn (right) and Kaitik Chan. Photo credit: Albert Harris Russell.

“Up until five years ago this day, our day, would not have been possible and certainly not accepted where we are standing,” said Sohn, who identifies as bisexual. He was the first out politician elected in Haverhill’s history. Florida House Representative Carlos G. Smith officiated the proceedings. Smith, the first LGBT Latinx legislator in Florida, quoted retired Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy, who cast the deciding vote in favor of same-sex marriage in the 2015 landmark case Obergefell v. Hodges. “No union is more profound than marriage for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice and family. In forming a marital union two people become something greater than they once were. Marriage embodies a love that may endure even past death. It would misunderstand these men and women to say they disrespect the idea of marriage. Their plea is that they do respect it — respect it so deeply that they seek to find its fulfillment for themselves.

They’re hope is not to be condemned to live in loneliness excluded from one of civilization’s oldest institutions, they ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law and the Constitution grants them that right.” Sohn and Chan exchanged vows and rings and confirmed their marriage intentions during the 12-minute civil ceremony attended by many elected officials and Tallahassee leadership. And they sealed it with a kiss. “You remind me each day that people depend on me and that’s why I need to depend on you,” Sohn said to Chan. “You are the reason it took so long for me to find the right person. You are my person. You are handsome, understanding and extremely patient. You love your mom and you love mine. I am so glad that I get to annoy you for the rest of your life but I promise it will be one of the best rides you’ve ever had. I love you.” The couple will reside in Haverhill. Honeymoon plans are pending.

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NEWS LOCAL

PA L M B E A C H

news

HOUSE LEGISLATOR USES ANTI-GAY SLUR AGAINST OPPONENT LGBT community outraged over Al Jacquet’s anti-gay slur Jason Parsley

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Glitter and Gold grace a packed house at the Au Rene Theater of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, Feb. 7 for the South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s spectacular celebration of Beethoven’s 250th anniversary. Photo courtesy of Norm Kent.

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ON A DAY WHEN MANY AMERICANS WERE CELEBRATING LOVE, REP. AL JACQUET IN PALM BEACH COUNTY WAS RANTING ON FACEBOOK WHERE HE CALLED HIS OPPONENT “BATTY BOY,” A COMMON ANTI-GAY SLUR IN THE CARIBBEAN. The news was first reported by Florida Politics. According to the news site Jacquet did not immediately respond to email and phone requests for comment. Jacquet represents Florida House District 88 that spans most of the length of the county from Delray Beach in the south to Riviera Beach in the north. “That’s the union boy. The batty boy, union boy,” Jacquet said on the video about his opponent, Lake Worth Beach Commissioner Omari Hardy. The slur is common in the Caribbean islands where Jacquet was born. Hardy is running against Jacquet in the upcoming Democratic primary in March. “I want to make it really clear that antigay language is reprehensible,” Hardy said. “We shouldn’t tolerate it from our elected officials, just as we should not tolerate it from anyone in our lives.” Hardy is not gay, but he was raised in a same-sex household with two mothers. “Anti-gay language is not OK. But there is nothing wrong with being gay. I’m not offended by someone calling me gay even though I’m straight,” he said. “What offends me is this elected official is using hateful language — hateful language that is used to stigmatize people. Trying to weaponize it for his own political benefit.” Rand Hoch, president the the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, said he received more than a dozen emails from people once the story was posted online Tuesday. “Jacquet’s words are reprehensible. What would his response be if someone like me referred to him using the N-word? Al Jacquet must immediately and genuinely apologize to Omari, the LGBTQ community, his colleagues in the

Rep. Al Jacquet. Photo via Facebook.

Legislature, and his constituents,” Hoch said. “If Jacquet fails to do so, at the very least, he should be censured by The Florida House of Representatives – if not removed from office.” PBCHRC has endorsed Jacquet in the past. “While Al Jacquet has never been involved with the local LGBTQ community in a significant way, PBCHRC Voters Alliance repeatedly endorsed him based on his co-sponsorship of pro-LGBTQ legislation,”Hoch said. “I sincerely doubt that will ever happen again.” Hardy has been a Lake Worth Beach City Commissioner for 3 years. “Bigotry of this kind perpetuates a culture of dehumanization and violence against the LGBTQ community. Coming on the heels of his defense of discrimination against LGBTQ students, Representative Jacquet’s homophobic slur is grotesque,” said Brandon Wolf, media relations manager for Equality Florida. “He should apologize immediately and commit to steps that demonstrate his true contrition.”

2.19.2020 â&#x20AC;¢

Publisher's Editorial

CONVICTIONS

PRIVACY IS NOT WHAT IT USED TO BE COLUMNIST SHOULD NOT HAVE CENSURED HUNTERS

Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

nce again, our Wilton Manors columnist Sal Torre has tripped off his surfboard. These are not the times to wind up in the waterways of Greater Fort Lauderdale, where there is more sewage than an oil spill — which brings us to Sal’s column in the last issue of Wilton Manors Gazette. Overall, Sal penned a decent and thoughtful piece, expressing a legitimate concern over the diminution of privacy rights impacting our society. He is right. We are losing it, inch by inch, day by day, and it sucks. According to Donald Trump, you need a driver’s license to buy milk at Winn Dixie. However, we have learned over the course of three years that Chief Orange Hair and the Oval Office has a pension for embellishment, doesn’t it? Our SFGN columnists, excellent wordsmiths though they may be, sometimes suffer the same misfortune. Not me, of course. I am the Chosen One, blessed with perfection and modesty. Anyway, two weeks ago, Mr. Torre suggested, and all but called out Hunters for perhaps storing your data off your driver’s license as they swipe it for entry into their club. As their lawyer, let me answer that for you. No, they do not. The scanner Hunters uses does not store your information. They ensure its authenticity. At their own expense, Hunters contracts, as any nightclub could, with a private company that uses magnetic readers to validate your identity and make your night out safer. As Mr. Torre suggests in his column, any bar can simply employ doorman to visually check ID’s. Many still do. We all understand this may not be a problem in the Manors, because of its older clientele. The reality though is that there are 50 states that issue multiple forms of ID cards and

driver’s licenses. As a tourist destination, even more forms of ID than that are used in South Florida, home of every scam in the world. How reliable is any cursory eyeball review of your ID going to be? Hunters uses a modern tool that protects your safety while jealously guarding supervision over their alcohol and beverage license. The ID scanners have extremely bright displays and speed your entry. Customers coming in and out of a club nightly don’t want to wait on long lines. The future is upon us. Like Hunters, more and more public facilities will be employing modern technologies to ensure that your identity has not been stolen on one hand, and that you are who you say you are on the other. It’s not necessarily a bad thing. ID scans do a little bit more than discourage underage drinking. They are tools which are likely to reduce pickpocketing in bars by authenticating the actual identities of persons entering the establishment. My best guess is that scanners will prevent con artists from trying to parade around with stolen identification after you have so reported it. That also cuts down on potential identity theft, as well. Troublemakers that are trespassed from a club once will be kept from coming back in. Besides, club owners know that 95 percent of all incidents evolve from misbehavior by 1 percent of the patrons. So this tool can even make your night out more secure. Let’s face the way our world is headed. There are scanners in court houses, airports, high schools and sports stadiums. There are cameras at every bank ATM, and on public roadways. Big Brother is everywhere. Sooner than we think, we will all be implanted with a microchip, given a country

HUNTER’S USES A MODERN TOOL THAT PROTECTS YOUR SAFETY WHILE JEALOUSLY GUARDING SUPERVISION OVER THEIR ALCOHOL AND BEVERAGE LICENSE.

• 2 . 19.2020

Hunters Nightclub. Photo via Hunters Wilton Manors, Facebook.

code, a DNA card, and a MAGA hat at birth. You don’t have to worry about a carnival barker guessing your weight. It will be calculated every time you step into an airplane. Ambulance drivers won’t be going looking for an unreadable bracelet on your wrist to see if you are on insulin. They will scan your arm and know instantly your medical history. The future George Orwell foresaw in 1984 is here. Get used to it. Last month, I got blown away by an email from Netflix, the movie service I pay $17 a month for the privilege of almost never watching. I recently disappointed them, and here’s how. After seeing the lead actress win a Golden Globe for her dramatic performance in “The Crown,” I viewed a few episodes of the series with my subscription. The show was not bad, but I forgot all about it. I suppose I got distracted writing columns like this one. So it goes — or so I thought. Last week, Netflix sent me an email reminding me I had not finished viewing the

series, “The Crown.” The note urged me to come back and finish watching it. Now my television is watching me. “Crown this,” I thought. My Apple Watch measures my blood pressure. Moments after I read the note from Netflix, it soared, and that was without eating the Ring Dings I had by my side. I am not sure those ten feet of receipts they give you at CVS are not already computertailored to your buying habits. That must be why they always offer me discounts on jelly beans. Privacy does not exist anymore the way boomers once knew it. Friends you went to high school with 59 years ago can find you on Facebook in 50 seconds. We also took Driver’s Ed classes in high schools. Today’s students must take active shooter drills. We worried about a drunk throwing up at a bar. Today, we must worry about a maniac with an AR-15. It’s a different world we live in, Master Jack. As the Little Prince said, “So it goes.”

CONVICTIONS

Editorial Cartoon

EDITORIAL CARTOON By Mike Luckovich

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

Criminal Defense Law Center 954.763.1900 Norman Elliott Kent

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2.19.2020 •

IN MEMORIAM TERRY DECARLO

FRIENDS AND FAMILY SALUTE

TERRY DECARLO A local Celebration of Life for the national voice of Pulse

SFGN Staff Photos by J.R. Davis

DECARLO MEMORIAL

Pictured above: a glimpse of the celebration of life that was held for Terry DeCarlo at Richardson Park in Wilton Manors on Feb. 16.

“I’ve known Terry DeCarlo for almost 20 years. During that time I have never met anyone more dedicated to the LGBT community in South Florida and the rest of the country. His tireless and selflessness work in raising millions of dollars for charitable organizations is unmatched by any other individual I have known. The LGBTQ community has lost a pioneer in the fight for equality, HIV/AIDS prevention, and community outreach and service. I would like to ask our community to praise Terry’s life by getting involved in our causes in any way possible. Terry‘s legacy will not only be measured by his actions, but by the actions that follow in his footsteps.”

“IT TAKES A SPECIAL PERSON TO GIVE SO SELFLESSLY

of their time and treasure to better the lives on their community. However, to be able to do so while empowering and encouraging those around them to all work together for a better community is a true gift and pure magic. In my lifetime I have never met anyone who embodied this more than Terry. This was no cause, no issue, no challenge… that was too small or too large for Terry to take on. He had his sleeves rolled up and encouraged, whomever was near, to do the same. The only thing bigger than his ability to help those around him was his heart.“

- Brett Rose

STARTED GOFUNDME PAGE TO HANDLE TERRY’S MEDICAL BILLS

Friends throughout the community gathered on Feb. 16 to share memories of Terry.

BORN MAR 19, 1962 IN BETHPAGE, NY. SURVIVED BY HIS HUSBAND BILL HUELSMAN, HIS MOTHER ANNE FABRIKANT, SISTERS MARY DETRO, DEBBIE WATERS, AND JOHN NUNZIATO. 18

• 2 . 19.2020

IN MEMORIAM TERRY DECARLO

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Friends throughout the community gathered on Feb. 16 to share memories of Terry. Pictured above is Terry’s husband Bill Huelsman (right) with Terry’s mother Anne Fabrikant.

Original Board Member – Wilton Manors Rainbow Business Exchange (Now WM LGBT Business Chamber) Original Board Member – Pet Project Wilton Manors Original Board Member – Stonewall Street Festival and Parade (original name Wilton Manors Pride) Former Chair – Wilton Manors Community Affairs Advisory Board Board Member - GUARD (Gays United to Attack Repression and Discrimination) Co-owner – South Florida’s first weekly LGBT Television Show on cable television “Out & About America” ran for seven years before being sold to a national production company Producer – Amazing Race South Florida – a bi-annual South Florida HIV/AIDS fundraising event for rotating charities themed directly after the television show. Participants do tasks equally to what is done on the show, but without getting on an airplane and all must be accomplished in one day. Winning team gets a cruise. An HIV/AIDS benefit Producer – Wilton Drag Race – a progressive “get in drag” race throughout the clubs in Wilton Manors raising funds for HIV/AIDS Producer and founder – Santa’s Speedo Run – Wilton Manors holiday answer to a 5k. Participants dressed in their finest holiday costumes and participated in a 5k run around Wilton Manors. This was an HIV/AIDS Benefit. This event was picked up by the Pride Center and continues as the Rainbow 5K done every year as a benefit for the center. Producer – Red Ball – one of a team of four to bring the famous Red Ball, an HIV/AIDS benefit for Fort Lauderdale. Presented for three years in venues such as the international swimming hall of fame and hagen park in wilton manors. A benefit for Children’s Diagnostics and Treatment Center Board task force member – One PULSE Foundation Producer – Wilton Bar Wars Bed Race – a one-day race where all the bars in wilton manors had to create a bed, representing a theme, from scratch and then race such bed down 21st ct against other beds in hopes of winning the coveted Wilton Bed Race Champion Trophy. An HIV/AIDS benefit for rotating charities. Santa’s Bike Force – one of a team of four who began Santa’s Bike Force. Each year over 150 brand new bicycles were purchased and personally handed out to children in need who would otherwise go without presents on Christmas day. This event has had several rotating charities throughout its now 10-year run World AIDS Day - Founder of the World AIDS Day Candelight Walk and Rally down Wilton Drive. This event over 10 years old has seen crowds grow to 1,500 participants. In years 3 and 4 a concert at the Broward Center was added to raise more funds for HIV/AIDS, Terry produced both concerts and both sold out. One featured Wanda Sykes and the other featured Margaret Cho. Both divas also led the candlelight walk those evenings. Board Member – Orlando Domestic Violence Task Force Board Member – Orlando United Victims Service Center Former Media Public Relations board member– City of Wilton Manors. Producer – Broward Bares It! – touted as a one night only traipse through the world of Tantalizing Temptations, Titillating Temptresses and Torrid Testosterone, and features local performers and community members, performing a night of burlesque, hot dance routines, and comedy. The event was moved to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and took four months to get approval since it was the first ever LGBT event of this type on the property. The first year the agreement was that the event would be held in one of the clubs to see how it took off. After a sellout crowd, who stayed on property and drank and played in the casino, the tribe offered to move the event into their Paradise theater where it called home for the next four years. This was an HIV/AIDS benefit. The event returned in 2019 after a brief hiatus to its new home, the Manor on Wilton Drive. Through organizations worked for, other fundraisers produced – White Party Miami (five years), Mad Hatters Tea Party HIV/AIDS fundraising Gala, Little Shop of Horror HIV/AIDS Fundraising gala

AWARDS OUT 100 – Named by OUT Magazine 8TH Air Force Silver Wings Key to the City — Wilton Manors Star of the Rainbow – South Florida Community Star 2010 Volunteer Excellence – Special Olympics of South Florida LGBTQ Lifetime Achievement Award – South Florida Community Awards 2011

2013 Achievements in Excellence Award – South Florida News 2016 Community Star – Orlando Police Department 2016 Certificate of Excellence – Orange County Sherriff South Florida’s 100 Influencers – 2018 Miami Herald 2.19.2020 •

SPIRITUALITY

SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM

LISTINGS ALL SOULS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 4025 Pine Tree Drive. Miami Beach Sundays at 8am and 10:30am. 305-520-5410 | allsoulsmb.org

5481 FL-7, Tamarac, FL 33319 954-486-5959 fountainofloveonline.org Pastor Dallas Walker-Green Worship: Sunday Mornings at 11:00 am

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.

OPEN HEART MEDITATION Saturdays 3:30 - 5 p.m. Pride Center - Room #200 www.heartofthemystery.com

HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 2917 NE 6th Avenue Wilton Manors 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH 1955 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale (954) 564-7673 - christlutheranfl.org pastordeborah@christlutheranfl.org Worship: Sunday 10:00am CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR, MCC Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 S. Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach. churchofoursaviormcc.org | 561-733-4000 Sunday Service 10AM FOUNTAIN OF LOVE MINISTRIES

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ST. NICHOLAS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1111 E. Sample Road, Pompano Beach 954-942-5887 - stnicholasfl.org office@stnicholasfl.org Sundays 8:00AM & 10:30AM (9:30AM only from Memorial Day through Labor Day) FIRST CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 1415 North K Street, Lake Worth 561-582-6691 - fcclw.org office@lakeworthchurch.org Service Time: Sunday 10:30AM UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST FORT LAUDERDALE 2501 NE 30th Street, Fort Lauderdale (954)563-4271 - uccftl.org revpatrickrogers@gmail.com Service Times: Thursdays 10:30AM (Elliot Hall) & Sundays 10:30AM (Sanctuary)

FAITH & PRIDE SPIRITUALITY

PURIM, REVEALING THE

HIDDEN Rabbi Noah Kitty

Congregation Etz Chaim

All

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

“Love without judgement” Holy Angels National Catholic Church 2917 NE 6th Ave Wilton Manors, FL 33334 Facebook.com/HolyAngelsFL www.HolyAngelsFL.org

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

SUNDAY SERVICE 10 A.M. Rev. Rick Rhen-Sosbe, Pastor

something else entirely — animals, famous pairs (like peanut butter and jelly), or creatures of perfect imaginings. Purim encourages us to show the world all of our inner identities, and to explore the many ways we express ourselves. You might be a comfortable cis-gendered man, but on Purim you transform into Mary Gigantus, the most fabulous drag queen on the strip. You might be a gender-varient person who is enthralled to be surrounded by a wonderment of gender expression. You might be a transgender teen, doing your first public expression of your private self. Purim can give that to us. Purim also reminds us that there is still risk involved in coming out. Esther’s success was not guaranteed. It was possible that her husband might have rejected her for being Jewish. The only thing guaranteed was the failure to save her people if she did not come out as one. Her silence would not save them, only her bravery could do that. As a sign that the Purim story should be understood by everyone who hears it, it is encouraged to tell the story in as many languages as possible. At our Etz Chaim celebration this year, we will be sharing the story in 10 languages, including Hebrew, Russian, Aramaic, French, Spanish, Italian, Thai, Shona, Urdu, and English! The whole megillah begins at 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 8 at 6:30 p.m., with graggers and hamentashen for all! Happy Purim, may your joy increase!!

Church

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

he frivolity of the upcoming Purim holiday is one sign of the month of Adar, of which it is said, when Adar comes, joy is increased! The story of Purim, thought to have occurred in Persia during the 4th century BCE, is found in Megillat Esther, the Book of Esther. We read that Haman, the royal vizier to King Ahasuerus, determined to kill all the Jews in the empire after Mordechai refused to bow down to him. His plans were overheard by Mordecai, who worked with Esther, his adopted daughter, to become the queen by marrying King Ahasuerus. Risking her life by coming out to her husband as a Jew, Esther overturned Haman’s deadly plans. The day of deliverance became a day of feasting, rejoicing, and sending gifts of food to the poor. The custom of wearing costumes on Purim is an allusion to the nature of the Purim miracle, where the details of the story are considered miracles hidden within natural events, and where secrets were masked by outward appearance. In addition, we are instructed to celebrate to the point where we can’t tell the difference between good Mordechai and evil Haman, where everything is outsized — the costumes are fabulous, and the telling of the story is intentionally filled with bad puns, silly jokes, and ribald hints. Even in traditional communities, people costume to absurdity and opposites; men dress like women, women dress like men, or both choose

Souls’ Epi copal All

954-633-2987

561-733-4000

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

Christ Lutheran Church 1955 East Oakland Park Blvd. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33306 www.christlutheranfl.org

Sunday Service @ 10am

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

A LITTLE BIT OF FAITH AND

PRIDE

Fellowship after Service

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

SEE MORE ONLINE AT SFGN.COM/TABLE/NEWS/RELIGION

Join us for Shabbat service Every Friday night at 8pm Saturday, March 14th

$15 Door includes 7 games Specials Game Cards 2 cards for $1 Food available for purchase: Hot dogs, drinks, chips Doors open 6:30pm/Play starts 7pm Cash only please

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

Congregation Etz Chaim

2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, on the Pride Center campus For more information: www.EtzChaimFlorida.org or 954-564-9232 2.19.2020 •

SAME OWNERS SINCE '96! ALL NEW STAFF!

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CONVICTIONS

Off The Wall

AN OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH Pier Angelo

President George W. Bush. Photo credit: The U.S. National Archives, via Flickr.

Dear President Bush, I spent eight years of my life disagreeing with you and your policies. I am a staunch Democrat, obviously I did not vote for you back then, and was furious at you and your administration many times over. Today I want to tell you that I would take you back in a heartbeat. You actually cared about our country and respected the institutions who have made our democracy great and a beacon for the world. In retrospect you were a gentleman, you had integrity, honesty, dignity, morals and class. Now we only have crass. I never thought I would say this but I wish you were still, or back, in the White House. With much overdue respect, Best regards and thank you.

Pier Angelo Guidugli SFGN/CEO 22

• 2 . 19.2020

13STREET

IT’S ALL HAPPENING ON

THE 13TH STREET CRAFT BEER & WINE FESTIVAL WITH CAR SHOW, FORT LAUDERDALE

SATURDAY, MARCH 7TH 4-8PM! Enjoy a Street Festival on swanky NE 13th Street, Fort Lauderdale, with live entertainment, craft beer and wine, food, a fantastic car show, vendor booths, local pet rescues, and much much more! Come thirsty and come hungry!

FORT LAUDERDALE

COST: General Admission is FREE. Purchase a wristband for Craft Beer and Wine tasting from area brewers and purveyors. $35 purchased in February 2020. $40 purchased March 1st to 6th 2020 $45 day of event $75 VIP Lounge with food, alcohol, wine, and beer samples in an A/C environment.

Order tickets at EventBrite.

This year will feature expanded wine selections!

TICKET BOOTH:

Children’s venues will include a kids play area with even more fun outdoor activities.

The Ticket Booth is located at 007 Liquors - NE 14th Court and NE 7th Avenue/ Dixie Hwy. This is where you show ID, pick up your wristband, voting tickets, souvenir glass, etc.

NE 13th Street will be closed to motor traffic from NE 4th Avenue to NE 8th Avenue.

Entertainment “ADAM UHLAN AND THE BLUES RISERS” Performing original and classic Blues/ Rock n Roll “JESSE THOMPSON PROJECT” Performing classic Rock n Roll DJ CLIFF Performing DJ entertainment

Our Partner

Sponsor

PARKING: East 13th Street - 2 parking lots near the 900 block, including Archways. West of 13th Street - 4th Avenue Church of God at 1219-1237 NE 4th. South of 13th Street - Iron Workers at 1200 NE 7th Avenue. PLEASE VISIT OUR WEB PAGE FOR SPONSORSHIP, EVENT VOLUNTEERS & CAR REGISTRATION AT CentralCityAlliance.org | info@centralcityalliance.org

13STREET th

IT’S ALL HAPPENING ON

Welcome

to the redeveloped 13th Street — located between Wilton Manors and Flagler Village. The Central City Alliance invites you to explore the new landscape where entrepreneurial opportunities and green space abound. Come see the new look for many of our local businesses, including:

FLASH LUBE BUCK & BEARD GULF STREAM BEER LOVELEE BAKESHOP LATE NIGHT LIQUORS PAUL’S CARPET & FLOOR RENZO GRACIE JIU-JITSU GRIECO FORD OF FORT LAUDERDALE MR. FIXIT — COMPUTER, PHONE, TABLE REPAIR JOE PRICE & ADAM EGLIN — TEAM JK | COMPASS Paul’s Carpet & Floor has proudly been serving our community since 1949. Whether it’s residential, commercial, or marine, their experienced staff is here to help you. Visit their new location just off NE 13th Street at 1231 NE 8th Avenue. 954.763-6904 ~ PaulsCarpet.com

<<<

PULL OUT THIS CENTERFOLD

SAVE THE DATE PAGE 2

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PAGE 3

NOW BEING DELIVERED ASK FOR YOUR COPY AT SFGN!

S O U T H

F L O R I D A

G A Y

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

WINTER ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PREVIEW

READ IT ONLINE AT THEMIRRORMAG.COM PAGE 4

PHOTO VIA ADOBE.

WMG Volume 7 • Issue 6 February 19, 2020

Wilton Manors Gazette FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/WMGAZETTE

COMMUNITY

Rep. Deutch Endorses Bloomberg for President

But stays silent on accusations of sexual harassment against the former mayor By Jason Parsley U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch endorsed former Mayor Michael Bloomberg for president last week, citing his commitment to strengthening gun laws and fighting climate change. “While states across the country have taken steps to strengthen gun laws, America continues to fall victim to gun violence. We need to take immediate action before another mass tragedy unfolds, and tomorrow is too late to start. Mike Bloomberg will make gun safety a national priority and he has a plan that could actually prevent these atrocities from happening,” Congressman Ted Deutch said in a prepared statement. “Not only that, Mike is our country’s answer to fighting pressing issues like climate change and will use integrity and real leadership to restore America’s place in the global community.” However Deutch did not address Bloomberg’s stop and frisk policy that targeted minorities in New York City, or his decades old lawsuits against him accusing him of sexual harassment and the degradation of women. Bloomberg has repeatedly apologized for his stop and frisk policy, but in the past has repeatedly denied the sexual harassment allegations.

Deutch, who serves on the House ethics committee, has been a leader in combatting sexual harassment. In 2018 he led the charge on the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 Reform Act, which according to his website “will improve workplace protections in Congress and strengthen responses to sexual harassment cases.” Deutch said at the time: “The halls of Congress are not absent from sexual harassment. Just like every other workplace in America, we need to strengthen our anti-harassment policies for Congressional offices to create a safe environment for all employees. We are sending an important message to the entire country that perpetrators — even Members of Congress — will be held accountable. With unanimous passage of this bill in the House, we are starting to change the culture by preventing future abuse and empowering victims to seek justice without fear of retribution.” Additionally when former Minnesota Senator Al Franken came under scrutiny in 2017 for allegations of sexual misconduct Deutch appeared on CNN telling the host the photos of Franken pretending to grope a woman were “absolutely revolting.” On the same show Deutch also supported a Senate

DEUTCH, WHO SERVES ON THE HOUSE ETHICS COMMITTEE, HAS BEEN A LEADER IN COMBATTING SEXUAL HARASSMENT.

investigation into the allegations even though many of them happened before Franken took office. Franken later resigned. “I saw a statistic last night that one in six women in America claimed to have been sexually harassed in the workplace and it’s not just Congress, and we need to do more […] but it’s every workplace in America,” Deutch told CNN at the time. “This is a moment of reckoning in this country, it’s really an important conversation we need to have.” Rep. Deutch also said, “Well, in my role on the ethics committee I, I would want to have the opportunity to speak with the woman who I’ve seen on television.” SFGN reached out to Deutch’s office by email twice for comment, but did not get a reply back before press time. Over the weekend Washington Post published an in-depth story looking at some of the allegations including whether Bloomberg once told a pregnant to “kill” her unborn child. According to the Post, Bloomberg, through his lawyer, denied ever saying it. However the Post was able to track down another employee who worked at the company at the time, who corroborated the woman’s story. In addition GQ reported that Bloomberg and his company have fielded about 40 sexual harassment and discrimination lawsuits over the years. Last month Bloomberg was confronted by one of hosts of the View on ABC over some of the allegations where he told the hosts

Rep. Ted Deutch. Photo via Facebook.

he would not release the women from the nondisclosure agreements. “We don’t have anything to hide but we made legal agreements, which both sides wanted to keep certain things from coming out, they have a right to do that,” Bloomberg said on the show. “Remember, just because you signed a nondisclosure doesn’t mean you can’t talk about other things. You just can’t talk about what was in that agreement where perhaps you don’t disparage the other party or you don’t want to retell a story, whatever it is.” Deutch represents Florida’s 22nd congressional district that covering parts of Broward and Palm Beach Counties including Wilton Manors. WMG

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.WMGAZETTE.com • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •2 7 2.19.2020 •

OPINION

Bye-Bye Biden – The Democratic Establishment Takes a Hit And here’s a preview of our local races

Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943

 Photo via PxHere.

PUBLISHER KENT LAMBASTS TORRE'S COLUMN —

AGAIN!

February 19, 2020 • Volume 7 • Issue 6 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305

By Sal Torre Poor results in Iowa, New Hampshire and national polls might be the knockout punch for Biden’s presidential aspirations. However, the bigger story this past week is how fast the desperate ruling class of the Democratic Party is acting like a bunch of rats jumping off a sinking ship scurrying to get onboard the Bloomberg bandwagon. What we are really witnessing here is another nail in the coffin of American democracy, bringing us ever closer to a new American oligarchy. Back in the 2016 presidential primaries, Bernie Sanders’ popularity and success were totally dismissed and discounted by the Democratic Party establishment. Yet the money and votes kept pouring in. Four years later we are still seeing the same the topic of elections already on our minds, treatment. Bernie Sanders is the front runner I might as well talk about our own local of the Democratic primaries, his fundraising elections. from non-corporate donors far outpaces Municipal elections for Mayor and City all others, and yet our Democratic Party Commission are already beginning to leadership cannot get out of each other’s take shape. Our Mayor, Justin Flippen, has way to embrace Michael Bloomberg as the announced that he will be seeking re-election, savior of the party. This is the same party along with City Commissioner Julie Carson. leadership that resurrected Joe Biden as their Vice Mayor Tom Green, our long-serving and savior, only to see their hopes dashed once popular commissioner, will not be seeking again by Bernie Sanders’ reelection, thus ending his 12popularity and fundraising year run serving our city. success. Candidates stepping up A popular candidate to throw their hats into the with strong appeal to young race so far include Chris voters, a loyal following, an Caputo and Michael Bracchi unbelievable grass-roots for City Commission. Bracchi fundraising machine that is currently serving on the brings in millions from city’s Budget Review Advisory average citizens should be a Committee. There is still godsend for any campaign. plenty of time for others to Unfortunately, the power jump into the race, so residents structure seems to want will have to wait a few more another billionaire, whose months to see what the final appeal is purchased by his line-up will look like. SEE SFGN wealth. Looks to me like One thing for certain is PAGE 16 our democracy is quickly that Wilton Manors residents becoming an oligarchy, will be losing a champion ruled by very wealthy for protecting single-family billionaires. neighborhoods with Vice Mayor Tom Green I guess we can find some comfort with stepping down comes November. Tom has the fact that Billionaire Bloomberg at least always voiced a very strong opinion on the supports and gives plenty of his money to need to protect our residential neighborhoods worthy causes favored by many Democrats. from the negative effects of short-term However, Bernie Sanders is still the front rentals. His strong voice and advocacy on runner and the rightful standard bearer for this issue, along with securing a rail station now. for our city, his work with the regional MPO, Leaving the national stage behind, my his vocal support for home rule against the attention focuses back on local issues here Florida legislature, his commitment to address within the borders of our Island City. With environmental issues, his work with the Florid

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 League of Cities, and so much more will be a tremendous loss for all residents of our Island City. This loss puts a greater emphasis on who we choose to fill our City Commission seats come November. Not yet knowing all the final candidates, I will hold off offering judgement for now. Meanwhile, residents should get to know these new candidates, how they have participated over the years in our city government, participated in neighborhood associations, worked on improving our quality of life, and what their vision for tomorrow is for our city. We should look to judge candidates on what they have done and currently doing, not on some glossy election flyer showing up in your mailbox. Campaign kick-off parties have already begun, and many more campaign fundraising parties will be scheduled in the months ahead. Mayor Flippen will be kicking off this Thursday at Drynk, Commissioner Carson follows the following Thursday at Claudia Castillo’s Art Studio, and Michael Bracchi kicked off his campaign to a packed house at Richardson House two weeks ago. Stay tuned for more election madness as we move through our local, state and national elections. There is an old saying, “All politics are local.” Getting involved locally, knowing who your candidates are in municipal elections, participating in the electoral process, talking to neighbors, getting involved with community organizations, and voting for candidates who are truly knowledgeable about the issues facing our Island City will continue to make life just better here. WMG

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

MEMBER

Associated Press MEMBER

MEMBER

If you’re planning a night on the Drive soon, take advantage of the city’s ride-sharing program for $5 off your lift or uber! bit.ly/WMRideShare

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.WMGAZETTE.com • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 28

• 2 . 19.2020

2 •

February 19, 2020

THIS, JUSTIN

The 2020 Legislative Session What does it hold for Wilton Manors? By Justin Flippen

NEWS

Pride Center Hosting Grief Presentation By John McDonald

Photo via the City of Wilton Manors, Facebook.

The 2020 legislative session is early this year, started on Jan. 14 and is scheduled to adjourn on Friday, March 13. As a mayor and local elected official, I am hopeful that this legislature will allow “local voices to make local choices,” keep big government in Tallahassee out of local matters best left to local communities and their local governments to handle, and limit efforts to restrict or preempt local government authority. This principle is called “home rule” and is recognized in the Florida Constitution as the right of cities to adopt any law as long as it does not conflict with State or Federal law. Wilton Manors is a city which takes particular pride in our diversity and inclusion, perhaps more than any other city in Florida, and our home rule authority has been essential in achieving an environmentally progressive and socially inclusive local city community. High on the city’s priority list is acknowledgement of the reality of climate change, increased severe weather events, and sea level rise. Florida desperately needs a statewide plan to address infrastructure resilience and to combat the impacts of increased flooding and higher temperatures. Every city in South Florida is facing this very real threat, and the Island City is no different. Funding is needed to assist municipal government in resiliency planning and implementation. I am encouraged that the governor has begun to address the issue by appointing a Chief Resiliency Officer and a Chief Science Officer. Progressive initiatives by the commissioner of agriculture and the Office of Energy are also appreciated. Sea level rise is a scientific fact, and the Southeast Florida Climate Compact recently came out with updated projections that demonstrate rising seas at a rate more rapidly than has previously been seen. Also on the city’s radar is water supply, both quality and quantity. It was conservatively estimated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that $16.5 billion is needed over the next 20 years in potable water infrastructure improvements for Florida, and wastewater and stormwater systems have similar needs. Water

gets to the essence of our survival as a society, and I hope the legislature will begin to prepare for the time in the near future where water could be in very short supply. There are several bills this session that address social equity for LGBT-plus people in Florida. The State Legislature should pass House Bill 41/Senate Bill 180 to ban the dangerous practice of conversion therapy. Studies have shown this practice victimizes and marginalizes individuals and is seriously harmful to mental health. Likewise, discrimination in the workplace or anywhere else based on sexual orientation and gender identity must no longer be tolerated in our State, and it is long overdue that we pass the Florida Competitive Workforce Act. While Airbnb, Vrbo, and other vacation rental business models are thriving and good for our economy, I hope the Florida Legislature will consider the negative impacts these rentals are having on traditional single-family neighborhoods. There is a place for this model in tourism meccas, but local governments should be able to regulate the bad behavior of their guests in places where people live and work every day. Finally, gratitude is extended to State Senators Farmer and Thurston, and State Representatives Dubose and LaMarca for their representation of citizens in Wilton Manors and the other cities of their districts. These legislators work hard on our behalf in our State capitol. Our fight to preserve our local and State constitutionally recognized home rule authority and our advocacy of our inclusive community values at the State level and beyond are reasons why “life’s just better here” in Wilton Manors.

A health care agency is bringing caregiver support to the Pride Center in Wilton Manors. With a focus on stress, community resources and tips and tactics, Vitas Healthcare is joining with the Pride Center for a presentation on caregiving. In what Pride Center officials are pitching as a quarterly event on the calendar, Vitas’ “Journey through Grief” is Tuesday, March 3 at the Broward based LGBT center. Vitas is a subsidiary corporation under the umbrella of Chemed Corporation. Headquartered in Miami, the company employs 12,562 workers in the field of hospice care. “Journey through Grief” is part education and part therapeutic, Vitas states in their promotional materials. “Members can share their struggles,

Photo credit: Brendon Lies.

triumphs, and resources with one another,” the flier reads. There is no cost to attend the presentation, officials at Vitas and Pride Center confirmed. WMG

The presentation is from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m. at Pride Center at Equality Park., 2040 N. Dixie Hwy., Wilton Manors, Fl. 33305.

KEEP YOUR EYES ON

South Florida Gay News

SFGN.com @SoFlaGayNews

SouthFloridaGayNews Justin S. Flippen, J.D. “The People’s Mayor” Wilton Manors Mayor WMG

It’s about time. It’s about us. A paper that speaks with you, to you, and about you. A paper that pulls no punches, protects our friends, defends our allies, and defines our adversaries. Our goal is to have you make our paper your home page.

• • • www.WMGAZETTE.com • • • 3 •

February 19, 2020

Welcome to the South Florida Gay News. 2.19.2020 •

POLITICS

 FOCUS ON POLITICS 

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

A Q&A WITH

CHRIS CAPUTO

CANDIDATE FOR WILTON MANORS CITY COMMISSION By Sallie James

Chris Caputo. Photo via Chris Caputo, Facebook.

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

Two 4-year Commission seats, occupied by Tom Green and Julie Carson, and the Mayor’s 2-year seat, occupied by Justin Flippen are up for election. Green is not running for re-election and Flippen has not yet announced if he is running for re-election To date, incumbent Julie Carson and political newcomers Michael Bracchi and Chris Caputo have announced their intentions to run for Commissioner. Here is our Q&A with Caputo. Visit SFGN.com/WMelection2020 to read the other candidate profiles and for other Wilton Manors election news.

CHRIS CAPUTO (Wilton Manors Gazette) Why have you decided to run for Commission? (Chris Caputo) When I moved here a little more than 15 years ago, I knew I found my home. I was clear this was a place I could be myself, build my business, and establish friendships that would last a lifetime. I was right. I’ve been blessed with some

“THERE ARE, UNFORTUNATELY, SOME REAL CHALLENGES FACING OUR CITY.” - Chris Caputo

CANDIDATE FOR WILTON MANORS CITY COMMISSION

success in my life, a lot of which is owed to this community that provided a foundation for me to build upon. There are, unfortunately, some real challenges facing our city. Knowing I have the experience to have a positive impact, I feel called upon – compelled – to ensure our city is a great tomorrow as it was for my 15 years ago. What are your qualifications? I think one thing that might set me apart from other candidates is that I have proven expertise and qualifications directly related to the issues residents are most concerned about – economic development and diversity, housing affordability and fiscal responsibility. As a serial entrepreneur, I believe I’m the only candidate that has built multiple businesses from $0 to millions in revenue. My last business, Agile Element, is a real source of pride: we created about 25 high paying jobs in technology, and our team had three times more women and minorities than the tech industry average. When it comes to housing affordability, I’m certain I’m the only candidate that actually has hands-on experience

solving the problem: I’m incredibly proud of the Senior Affordable Housing project that was conceptualized and created thanks to the efforts of our Pride Center Board of Directors and Leadership Team. It is more than seven years in the making: identifying the opportunity to qualify for tax credits, qualifying the right partners for the project, navigating complex city, county and state regulations and of course ensuring the project made financial sense for everyone involved. I’ve made SFGN’s Out50 list, received the Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business of the Year Award, Our Fund’s first ever NextGen Philanthropist Award, SMART Ride’s leadership award, and more. I’ve demonstrated my commitment to this community by raising $150,000-plus for local nonprofits. I’ve earned my seat on the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce’ Board of Directors, as well as the honor of serving as Board Chair of the Pride Center, by walking the walk. I hold a Masters of Business Administration from FAU. Are you already involved in the city on boards, etc.? As you’re probably aware, I’ve been a regular

attendee and outspoken resident at city commission meetings for some time now. I’m involved in our community in so many ways, from participation on the Government Affairs council at the Chamber (where I chair the Affordable Housing subcommittee), to my involvement with WMBA, and my participation in community events. That being said, there have been some opportunities to be involved with our city that I’ve turned down. I’ve learned, for me personally, it sometimes is best to remain an “outsider” until you’ve secured a position where you can enact real change. I’ve seen some really great ideas come up in our various city boards that ultimately were shot down by commissioners – and I won’t be a part of that.

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



• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.WMGAZETTE.com • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 30

• 2 . 19.2020

4 •

February 19, 2020

GREG DUDZEK

Our Fund’s mission is to promote responsible philanthropy in order to make South Florida the most livable community in the country for LGBT people.

Everyday Philanthropist As South Florida’s only LGBT community foundation, Our Fund Foundation improves peoples’ lives by providing various ways to give, and supporting causes within the LGBT community. Every month we will feature a local philanthropist and ask them about what inspires them to give, hopefully inspiring new everyday philanthropy. Greg Dudzek, another committed supporter, talks about what inspires him to give to South Florida causes:

Where are you from, and where do you consider home? I was born and raised in Philadelphia and much of my family still lives in the area. Philadelphia had been home to me, and it became even more special when I met my husband, Jayant, 22 years ago. When Jayant suggested moving to Florida, I was very apprehensive and reluctant. It turned out to be one of the best things in my life. We love living here and have met wonderful people.

OUR FUND FOUNDATION supports projects that serve the LGBT community in a number of different fields:

When did you first begin giving, and what inspired you to do so? What was the first organization you gave to? Before I met Jayant, my exposure to LGBT groups was limited. My giving and charity work was limited to giving to my church, my school, and other family oriented organizations. One thing both Jayant and I have in common is our love for animals. I also learned the importance of having a strong connection to the LGBT community. Among the first groups that we started giving money to were animal charities, and we still support many of them. Which causes and organizations do you support with your time and resources? Being a gay man, LGBTQ issues are important to me, and I find myself supporting a lot of organizations that further the cause. I also feel that we should be well-rounded, educated and aware individuals, and therefore support many of the Arts and Cultural organizations. It is important for us to understand the concept of giving, and using our wealth wisely, and I find that Our Fund fills that slot very well. What do you find most rewarding about giving to the causes you care about? The most rewarding response I get is to see that something I did results in a positive experience for another living creature. It is easy to spend money and effort making my life better, but seeing gratitude looking back at me makes me feel rich.

LEGACY GIVING AGENCY FUNDS DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS

What sort of guidance would you give to someone considering giving back to their community? Enrich your family while you are alive. After you die, leave your assets in a way that benefits the community in which you live. Our Fund provides us with an option to have our assets become an opportunity to nurture charitable organizations after we are gone. They have helped us to set up a fund that will disburse our assets over a period of time to charities that we selected which reflect our personal interests. We encourage other members of our community to: first, develop a plan for what happens to their assets after they pass; and second, to consider directing some of those assets to Our Fund with provisions to have the funds benefit charities of your choice that will appreciate your lasting commitment to them.

YOUTH ELDERS WOMEN TRANSGENDER HIV/AIDS ARTS & CULTURE SOCIAL JUSTICE

To learn more about how you can support Our Fund’s mission to support agencies advancing LGBT causes in South Florida, visit us at www.Our-Fund.org or call us at (954) 565-1090

2.19.2020 •

KEEP YOUR EYES ON

LIFESTYLE PHOTOS

South Florida Gay News

SFGN.com @SoFlaGayNews

SouthFloridaGayNews

THIRD ANNUAL ESERA TUAOLO

NFL SUPER BOWL INCLUSION PARTY On January 29th, the Third Annual Esera Tuaolo NFL Super Bowl Inclusion Party was held at the Revolution Live in Miami. The Inclusion Party seeks to bring the NFL and the LGBT communities closer together by gathering coaches, players, fans, team owners, and all sexualities and genders in a hate-free zone. Pictured here is Amara LaNegra, who kept the party alive. Photo credit: J.R. Davis. To see more, visit SFGN on Facebook.

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• 2 . 19.2020

FEATURE PETS

R O F G N I T I A W A HERO

DIEGO

Diego (ID 624088) is looking for a home... could it be yours? This handsome fellow even has his tuxedo on for you. Diego is a friendly 3-year-old kitty who is happy to let you rub his belly and he will purr and purr. He is an active kitty and likes his toys, but is a little nervous around loud noises, like thunder, so he would really like a home of his own where he can feel safe and cuddle up in his favorite spot. He does well with dogs and other cats, but he especially loves his friend Thea (ID 624089). The two would love to go to a caring owner together. Sadly, the pair have been with us since November and they are ready be a part of a family again. Thanks to J.R. Dunn Jewelers, Diego’s adoption fee has been sponsored. If he’s the one for you, please visit the Humane Society of Broward County to meet him and his BFF Thea.

and

The adoption fee for dogs over 6 months is $100 and felines over 6 months are $30. When you adopt from the Humane Society of Broward County the dogs and cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, receive preliminary vaccinations, cats are feline leukemia tested, and dogs over 7 months are tested for heartworm. They also receive a flea/tick preventative, a 10-day limited health care plan from VCA Animal Hospitals, 30 days of Trupanion Pet Insurance and a bag of Purina ONE pet food. The HSBC opens daily at 10:30 and is located at 2070 Griffin Road, a block west of I-95. For more details call 954-989-3977 ext. 6. To see who else is looking for a home visit www.humanebroward.com.

While You’re in Town

4th ANNUAL

Make John Knox Village part of your this Winter!

plan

March 2020

A Month-long Celebration of the Arts

Join us at one (or all!) of our ArtSage Events

TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 3PM

VENETIAN ARTS SOCIETY: NSU DANCE WORKS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 7PM

NORTH BROWARD PREP JAZZ BAND IN CONCERT

RSVP required. Call 954-871-2929

SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 12:30 PM

NSU ART MUSEUM: SECOND SUNDAY FILM SERIES

johnknoxvillage.com | jkvgrows.com John Knox Village, 651 SW 6th Street, Pompano Beach

where possibility

plays

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

2.19.2020 •

SFGNITES

FOR THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 20, 2020 - FEBRUARY 25, 2020 J.W. Arnold

You’ll Be Praying For More

jw@prdconline.com

THU

2/20

SCIENCE Take a trip back to the Mesozoic era at the Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 S.W. 2nd St. in Fort Lauderdale. The museum’s quarterly Discovery After Dark adult social celebrates “Dinosaurs,” the new interactive exhibit featuring life-size replicas of Jurassic giants. Enjoy networking, hors d’oeuvres and surprising “dino discoveries.” Guests must be 21 and over. Tickets are $20-25 at MODS.org/AfterDark.

FRI

2/21

COMEDY Your favorite “RuPaul’s Drag Race” judge Ross Mathews is coming to the Abdo New River Room at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale tonight at 8 p.m. and he’s getting ready to drop a few names. The former “Tonight Show with Jay Leno” intern is all grown up and he’s ready to dish on the celebrities he’s encountered over the past 20 years. There’s even a fun game show! Tickets are $35 at BrowardCenter.org.

THURSDAY 2/20

THEATER

Don’t miss your last chance to see Island City Stage’s new production of the Off Broadway hit “Altar Boyz” at Wilton Theater Factory, 2304 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan and Abraham are the Christian boy band that’s finally hitting the charts. But the boys are worried that their pious pop act — filled with songs like “Girl You Make Me Wanna Wait” and “Jesus Called Me On My Cell Phone” — might not go over with sophisticated city folk. Closes Feb. 23. Tickets are $48 at IslandCityStage.org. Photo Credit: 84design.

SAT

2/22

SUN

2/23

MON

2/24

TUE

2/25

COMEDY

CONCERT

ART

NIGHTLIFE

Picture it: Your city! Sophia Petrillo has gone missing! Your favorite pals and confidants Dorothy, Blanche and Rose must travel down the road and back again to find her. Could she be at the Rusty Anchor? The Golden Gays N.Y.C. present “Hot Flashbacks, a Golden Girls Musical Adventure,” tonight at 8 p.m. at Savor Theater, 503 S.E. 6th St. in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets start at $30 at TheGoldenGaysNYC.com

The Youth Pride Band, more than 90 talented LGBT and allies high school musicians from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, will perform tonight at 7 p.m. at the Broward Center. Brian Worsdale, music director of the Three Rivers Young Peoples Orchestras in Pittsburgh, will conduct pieces by the young composer Michael Markowski, who will provide commentary. Tickets are $35 at BrowardCenter.org.

“Wet Paint Miami,” a traveling group exhibition by California-based artist David “Persue” Ross and more than 70 other graffiti artists, is on display at the Museum of Graffiti, 299 N.W. 25th St. in Miami, through April 1. The museum, located in the heart of Wynwood, is open 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Wednesdays – Mondays. Admission is $16 for adults. For tickets and more information, go to MuseumOfGraffiti.com.

You don’t have to sing in the shower! Get out tonight and experience the limelight on the stage at Hunters, 2232 Wilton Dr. in the Shoppes of Wilton Manors. Don Casteel is your host for karaoke from 8 p.m. – 2 a.m. and you can enjoy drink specials all night long. Just don’t decide to belt out “And I will Always Love You” until you’ve had a few shots. Seriously. More information at HuntersFtLauderdale.com.

• 2 . 19.2020

MASTERWORKS III ZWILICH: Concerto for Cello and Orchestra (World Premiere) featuring Zuill Bailey, cello MENDELSSOHN: Symphony No. 5, “Reformation” BEETHOVEN: The Consecration of the House GOTTSCH: Sunset (World Premiere)

MARCH 5 Broward Center, Fort Lauderdale MARCH 7 Temple Israel of Greater Miami Downtown Miami MARCH 8 Tennessee Williams Theatre, Key West TICKETS ON SALE NOW southfloridasymphony.org 954.522.8445

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2.19.2020 •

A&E THEATER

“Penguins” is based on the true story of two male penguins at the Central Park Zoo that hatched and raised a chick together. Credit: Cahoots NI.

PENGUIN PLAY OFFERS NEW DEFINITION OF ‘FAMILY’

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 15, 2020 713 Lake Avenue, Lake Worth Beach www.lakeworthplayhouse.org | 561.586.6410 SFGN Film Festival Ad 1/8 page.qxp_Layout 1 2/9/20 9:40 AM Page 1 �

The South Florida Israeli-Jewish LGBTQA+ Film Festival held February 23rd to March 15th All films will be shown at Congregation Etz Chaim, located at the Auditorium; B building at the Pride Center in Wilton Manors, 2038 N. Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, FL 33305. Tickets are $11 each. Entire series of all five films Are $50 per person. For tickets, info, film clips: www.etzchaimflorida.org

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

70 min Hebrew with English subtitles

March 1, 2020 Family in Transition screens at: 4.45pm 75 min Hebrew with English subtitles

Film Festival Sponsored in part by Congregation Etz Chaim of Wilton Manors and:

Anonymous

DON’T MISS A

TASTE.

FEELING THE HUNGER?

Read SFGN’s weekly food column for an exclusive bite on local bars, restaurants, and seasonal flavors.

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• 2 . 19.2020

J.W. Arnold

ractically overnight, Roy and Silo, two male chinstrap penguins at New York City’s Central Park Zoo, became international celebrities. Just like the other bonded animals in the zoo, they walked, swam and played together. When the duo tried to hatch a rock, a zookeeper gave them an egg instead, and they soon found themselves a real chick named Tango. This heartwarming story has been adapted for the stage by Cahoots NI, an internationally-acclaimed theater company based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and is coming to South Florida. “At its heart, it is a story about love, family and celebrating our differences, which I think is a message we are all in need of hearing,” explained artistic director Paul McEneaney. The show is non-verbal, meaning the actors rely on physical movement, dance and music to tell the story. “This [was] a great opportunity to make the show accessible to all ages, with no language barriers, and it makes our audience members lean in that bit closer to really concentrate on our story and connect with our characters,” he said. “For our performers, it means they really need to use their faces and bodies as their storytelling tools. In the rehearsal room, we work off a kind of ‘unspoken’ script, so that everyone on stage knows exactly what thought and emotion is being portrayed at every moment.” The creative team and actors spent a lot of time observing penguins, noting that, on

land, penguins are quite clumsy, but then suddenly moved gracefully in the water. “We wanted to stay away from the stereotypical penguin ‘waddle,’ but I think we’ve found a great balance and our performers do a great job of embodying three mischievous penguins,” McEneaney said. That said, there are still challenges for the actors. The show is very physical, and although the penguin enclosure on stage looks suitably frosty, the costumes are made of a very thick wetsuit material, so the performers can get very hot. The set is made up of numerous icecube-like boxes, and there are moments where all three performers squash into one box, which after a particularly warm show, McEneaney said can be “a not too pleasant experience.” “Penguins” is designed for audiences of all ages. The company has earned a reputation for engaging storytelling for children and their families. “It’s nice when you hear families interacting [in the audience], asking and answering questions during the show. Sometimes you will hear a child say, ‘They are in love!’ and you know they have connected with the story,” he said. “I think some of the most interesting conversations will take place in the car on the way home from the theatre and hope that ‘Penguins’ has provided a starting point to talk about different kinds of families.” McEneaney conclude, “And, of course, we hope our audience have been inspired and entertained by what they have seen on stage!”

Cahoots NI presents "Penguins" at the Arsht Center in Miami on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 21 - 22. Tickets are $29 at ArshtCenter.org.

A&E THEATER

RONNIE LARSEN CONTINUES TO SURPRISE WITH NEW MUSICAL J.W. Arnold

laywright and producer Ronnie Larsen is best known for his racy, gaythemed sex romps: “Making Porn,” “Cocksucker: A Love Story,” “All-Male Peep Show,” and “Bathhouse the Musical.” Nearly all feature gratuitous frontal nudity and most regularly sell out extended runs to the mostly older, male gay audiences. But lately, Larsen has surprised his fans and critics with more thoughtful productions. He collaborated with composer Dennis Manning two years ago on the touching country musical “Now & Then” that earned a Carbonell nomination and went on to successful productions in Chicago and London. He picked up two more Carbonell nominations last fall for the funny onewoman show, “Grindr Mom,” about a Mormon mother who sets up an account on the hook-up app to better understand her gay son, and “An Intimate Evening with John Wayne Gacy, Jr.,” a dark dive into the psyche of the serial killer on the eve of his execution. This weekend, Larsen will debut his latest musical, “Come Out! Come Out!,” and it’s nothing like any of his previous works. Set during the Roaring ‘20s, it’s the story of four men who explore their homosexuality through dance. Yes, dance! “I’ve substituted the nudity for tap dancing,” said Larsen with his signature throaty laugh, “and it’s going to be the best thing I’ve ever done.” According to Larsen, the tap dancing serves as a sort of metaphor for the physical encounters the four men fantasize about while cruising Central Park. The writer scoured vaudeville scores of the period to find the right songs and then built the story around the music. “Ma, He’s Making Eyes at Me” is no longer a popular hit, but the Con Conrad song captures the sentiments of Larsen’s characters, as does Eddie Cantor’s “Makin’ Whoopee.” “The show is sort of revolutionary, even though it’s a musical comedy set in the ‘20s,” he said. “It feels very new, even if [the cast] is wearing top hats.” Larsen tapped Australian choreographer Kurt Phelan to create the dance numbers

Playwright Ronnie Larsen’s newest musical, “Come Out! Come Out!,” is set in the 1920s. Credit: Ronnie Larsen Presents.

and musical director Bobby Peaco, a recent transplant to South Florida from New York, is working with the cast and accompanying performances on the piano. Michael Mills is co-directing the production with Larsen. The New York City-based cast — Greyson Wade, Zachary Swartout, Chris Carranza and Dom Giovanni — were selected for their dancing skills first and Larsen promises audiences in the intimate Foundry at Wilton Theater Factory will experience the intricate choreography in a way that is impossible to replicate in a cavernous theater like the Parker Playhouse or Broward Center. He and Mills do hope to transfer the show Off Broadway following its South Florida run. The 51-year-old (who was born on Valentine’s Day) genuinely seems surprised at the reaction to his latest productions. “I wrote [‘Gacy’] 25 years ago and ‘Come Out! Come Out!,’ like two years ago,” he said. “This isn’t something new.” Larsen attributes the ability to take commercial risks to his new home at the Foundry. “I have a home now,” he explained. “It’s not that I’m changing. Fort Lauderdale has embraced me in a way that I can do this work. The audiences want to see the work and I can take chances.”

Ronnie Larsen presents the world premiere of “Come Out! Come Out!” Feb. 21 – March 29 at the Foundry at Wilton Theater Factor, 2306 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. Tickets are $35-50 at RonnieLarsen.com. 2.19.2020 •

A&E FILM

FILM FESTIVAL FOCUSES ON

ISRAELI LGBT LIFE J.W. Arnold

outh Florida cinephiles can experience contemporary LGBT life in Israel at a weekly film festival hosted by Congregation Etz Chaim at the Pride Center in Wilton Manors.

The South Florida Israeli-Jewish-LGBTQA+ Film Festival kicked off on Feb. 16 and will continue for four more weeks. According to congregation president and series programmer David Yalen, one of the goals of the festival is to offer a more accurate portrayal of Israel and its LGBT community. “We hope the audience will learn that Israel as a country and its LGBTQ community, in particular, are not what the news shows or other films portray them,” he said. “While the country is ‘officially’ religiously conservative, it has a very strong culture of social justice, humanity, equality between women and men, and was offering parity in its armed forces between straight and gay soldiers long before the United States.” Three of the remaining films present insights into distinct segments of Israel’s LGBT community, including the deaf and hard-ofhearing, transgender people and seniors. The fourth film is the only one in English and deals specifically with the history of the ancient community of Jews in Baghdad, Iraq who were expelled to Israel after 1948.

Yalen noted that Congregation Etz Chaim has been the only LGBT synagogue in South Florida for more than 45 years. 38

• 2 . 19.2020

An Israeli family must respond when their father comes out as transgender in “Family in Transition,” screening as part of the South Florida Israeli-Jewish-LGBTQA+ Film Festival. Image credit: Roi Rot, via Go2Films.

“THE SIGN FOR LOVE” 2017, Hebrew with English subtitles 75 mins. FEB. 23, 4:45 P.M.

“REMEMBER BAGHDAD” 2017, English 70 mins. MARCH 8, 2:30 P.M.

This moving documentary is the first-person account of the life a deaf man, Elad Cohen, created for himself, and his attempt to show viewers his version of family and parenthood.

This British documentary outlines an untold history of Iraq, told through the eyes of the Jews, Iraq’s first wave of refugees. After 2,600 years living peacefully in the area, in one generation, the community vanishes.

“FAMILY IN TRANSITION” 2018, Hebrew with English subtitles 70 mins. MARCH 1, 4:45 P.M.

“GOLDEN BOYS” 2016, Hebrew with English subtitles 56 mins. MARCH 15, 4:45 P.M.

This is story of a family in Nahariya, a small traditional town in Israel, whose lives change completely after their father finally decides to reveal to them that he’s a transgender woman.

Every week, 10 elderly gay men gather at the LGBT Center of Tel-Aviv. This intimate space is their last and only shelter, where they can deal with aging openly: from sexuality and body image to loneliness and their conditions as widowers, divorcees and/or grandparents.

The South Florida IsraeliJewish-LGBTQA+ Film Festival kicked off on Feb. 16 and will continue for four more weeks. Yalen noted that Congregation Etz Chaim has been the only LGBT synagogue in South Florida for more than 45 years. The congregation worships at the Pride Center on Friday evenings and conducts holiday, community and social/educational programs throughout the year. This series follows a much smaller film festival presented in partnership with the Stonewall National Museum and Archives last year and, based on advance ticket sales and word of mouth, he expects the festival to continue to grow.

Congregation Etz Chaim’s South Florida Israeli-Jewish-LGBTQA+ Film Festival continues weekly on Sunday afternoons through March 15 at the Pride Center, 2038 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. Tickets for individual screenings are $11 at EtzChaimFlorida.org.

2.19.2020 â&#x20AC;¢

DATEBOOK

Theater

FEBRUARY 19 - FEBRUARY 25

Paul Leary

Calendar@SFGN.com

* Denotes New Listing

broward county *The Golden Gays NYC: Hot Flashbacks

Saturday, February 22nd at 8 PM at The Savor Theatre 503 SE 6th St, Fort Lauderdale. Picture it: Fort Lauderdale, February 2020, Sophia Petrillo has gone missing! Your favorite pals and confidants Dorothy, Blanche, and Rose must travel down the road and back again to find her. Through a series of hilarious “hot flashbacks”, these hip old grannies take you on a musical journey through The Golden Girls’ favorite moments to find “Ma!” Details at thegoldengaysnyc.com

*Happy Days

Runs through March 1st, from Thinking Cap Theatre. Winnie, buried to her waist, follows her daily routine and prattles to her husband, Willie, who is largely hidden and taciturn. Her frequent refrain is “Oh this is a happy day.” Later, she is buried up to her neck, but continues to talk and remember happier days. At The Vanguard, 1501 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Info at vanguardarts.org.

*Stephanie J. Block with Seth Rudetsky

Saturday, February 22, 2020 at 8 PM Parker Playhouse, 707 Northeast 8th Street, Fort Lauderdale. Experience an intimate evening of incredible music and hilarious conversations hosted by Seth Rudetsky featuring Stephanie J. Block, who won this year’s Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical for her starring role in The Cher Show. Tickets at parkerplayhouse.com

The Rocket Man Show

Friday, February 28th at Coral Springs Center For The Arts. Remember when rock was young? You will after this show! Rus Anderson is Elton John’s official body double for his ‘Farewell Yellow Brick Road’ world tour videos & photos! Picked by Elton himself, Rus performs as a young Elton John in ‘The Rocket Man Show’ - driving a night of Elton’s greatest hits, with spot on vocals & fierce piano playing. Rus painstakingly recreates an early concert with gorgeous, colorful & flamboyant costumes actually worn by Elton - including boots, glasses &

• 2 . 19.2020

jumpsuits from 1973, as well as his sparkly tuxedo from 1984! With all the classic young Elton antics, audiences are in for a night of nostalgia, singing, laughing & participation. Information and tickets at thecentercs.com

palm beach county *Brighton Beach Memoirs

February 23 – March 8, at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, 1001 East Indiantown Road, Jupiter. Centered on the relatable angst of growing up, Neil Simon’s Brighton Beach Memoirs follow’s 15-year-old Eugene Jerome as he navigates the waters of adolescence. Set in 1937 Brooklyn, Simon’s award-winning play perfectly captures a classic coming-ofage story surrounded by identifiable family characters, as they confront the pressures of the impending war. Celebrate the life and works of Neil Simon with a production of his most memorable play. (561) 575-2223 or visit JupiterTheatre.org

Skylight

Presented by Palm Beach Dramaworks, 201 Clematis St, West Palm Beach through March 1st. Winner of the 1996 Olivier Award for Best New Play, Tom Sergeant, a wealthy, middleaged businessman, and the much younger Kyra Hollis, his former employee, had a long, ardent love affair until his wife discovered their relationship. Kyra walked out, and a year after his wife’s death, Tom pays a visit to his ex, who now teaches underprivileged children and chooses to live in poverty. Can incompatible values and opposing world views be bridged if the passion remains? Visit palmbeachdramaworks.org for additional information and tickets.

Witness For The Prosecution

Through March 15 at the Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Avenue, Lake Worth, Florida 33460. Leonard Vole stands accused of murdering a rich widow. The stakes are high with shocking witness testimony, impassioned outbursts from the dock and a young man’s fight to escape the hangman’s noose. Generally regarded as one of Christie’s most accomplished plays, this suspenseful thriller keeps audiences guessing until the very end. Box Office (561) 586-6410 or visit LakeworthPlayhouse.org

Experience an intimate evening of incredible music and hilarious conversations hosted by Seth Rudetsky featuring Stephanie J. Block at Parker Playhouse on Feb. 22 at 8 p.m. Photo via Facebook.

miami-dade county *Ain’t Misbehavin’

stance on guns and God. As his devoutly Through February 23rd, at Sandrell Rivers Christian wife and liberal Jewish campaign Theater, 6103 NW 7th Ave, Miami, FL 33127 manager try to contain the damage, this look This 1929 jazz/early swing musical revue is at how religion influences politics and how named after the Fats Waller song. It is a politics has become a religion is simultaneously tribute to the black musicians of the 1920s funny, heartbreaking, and uplifting. Details and 1930s who were a part of the Harlem and tickets at mainstreetplayers.com or (305) Renaissance, an era of creativity, cultural 558-3737. awareness, and ethnic pride. The performers present an evening of rowdy, humorous songs that encapsulate the various moods E of the era. Presented LECTIV L O C Y by The M Ensemble, DA THIRD Florida’s Oldest Established AfricanAmerican Theater Company. Details at themensemble.com

Church and State

Running through March 1st, at Main Street Players, 6766 Main St, Miami Lakes. Three days before his bid for reelection, in the wake of a school shooting in his hometown of Raleigh, North Carolina, a Republican U.S. senator makes an off-the-cuff comment to a blogger that gets leaked on “the Twitter,” calling into question the senator’s

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2.19.2020 •

DATEBOOK

FEBRUARY 19 - FEBRUARY 25

Community Paul Leary

Calendar@SFGN.com

BROWARD SUPPORT SERVICES PFLAG

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

SUNSERVE YOUTH GROUP

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

SURVIVOR SUPPORT

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

broward county *Mad Hatter the Musical (Exclusive Preview)

Wednesday, February 26h at 7:30 PM at Gatsby’s Joint, 2460 E Commercial Blvd, Fort Lauderdale. Come experience the neverbefore-told story of the Mad Hatter and his journey to wonderland, before the famous story, Alice in Wonderland! Be part of this celebration, and support the new musical, Mad Hatter, on its way to Broadway! Feel free to dress up in your best “Wonderland” attire! Tickets $25 more info gatsbysjoints.com

*Live on the Set: Good Times with Jimmie “JJ” Walker

Thursday, February 20, 6 PM – 8 PM. The Pompano Beach Cultural Center is proud to introduce Live on the Set, an interactive event that brings the art, artists, and audiences together in a night filled with dialogue and candid conversation beginning with a viewing of Good Times with Kid Dyno-mite himself, Jimmie “JJ” Walker. Join us in a family friendly environment and explore the legacy of incredible Black Television for Black History Month. Tickets $10. PBCC, 50 W Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach. Details at pompanobeacharts.org

Voices of Pride

Meets at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Join the Gay Men’s

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Chorus as they practice every week. Free. Call 561-533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC. com for rehearsal details.

*Fort Lauderdale Black History Month Art Exhibit

Thursday, February 20, from 6:00 to 8:30 pm at Fort Lauderdale City Hall 100 N. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale. City of Fort Lauderdale is dedicating the City Hall lobby gallery to a celebration of African American history with visual artworks created by local artists. There is no admission fee. Details at browardartguild.org

palm beach *An Evening with The Stars The Edwards Twins

Wednesday, February 26at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach. See the wonderful variety shows from 70’s & 80’s live and re-created by Las Vegas’ number one impersonators of all time. All of your favorite legendary superstars come alive: Sonny & Cher, Billy Joel, Elton John, Neil Diamond, Lady Gaga, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart, Bette Midler, Barbra Streisand, Andrea Bocelli, Tom Jones, and many more all in one show hosted by The Edwards Twins from Las Vegas. All live vocals. More information at kravis.org

*Les Ballets Trockadero De Monte Carlo

Thursday, February 20 at 8 PM at the Duncan Theatre at Palm Beach State College, 4200 S Congress Ave, Lake Worth. The Trocks, as they are affectionately known, is a company of professional male dancers performing the full range of the ballet and modern dance repertoire, including classical and original works in faithful renditions of the manners and conceits of those dance styles. Tickets $45 details at trockadero.org

people in their age bracket that doesn’t involve the nightclub/bar life scene. By providing programs and supporting other local LGBTQ organizations, GVSC strives in creating a sense of community, forging meaningful relationships, and developing social interaction among gay, bisexual, and queer men. Details at gvscmiami.org

*Author Joshua Hammer

Wednesday, February 19 at 8 PM in West Palm Beach at the Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Boulevard. Join Feinstein as he celebrates the many eras of the Great American Songbook with the help of the legendary creator Jimmy Webb. Jimmy will share his amazing personal stories about Frank Sinatra, Glen Campbell, Linda Ronstadt, Carly Simon and more. Tickets start at $39 more information at kravis.org

Sunday, February 23, 4pm at Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables. Joshua discusses The Falcon Thief: A True Tale of Adventure, Treachery, and the Hunt for the Perfect Bird. The book whisks readers from the volcanoes of Patagonia to Zimbabwe’s Matobo National Park, and from the frigid tundra near the Arctic Circle to luxurious aviaries in the deserts of Dubai, all in pursuit of a man who is reckless, arrogant, and gripped by a destructive compulsion to make the most beautiful creatures in nature his own. It’s a story that’s part true-crime narrative, part epic adventure. More info booksandbooks.com

Palm Beaches Prime Timers

Arsht Center Farmers Market

Coffee Clatch at Compass

HIV Support Group

*Michael Feinstein Conducts The Kravis Center Pops Orchestra

Second Saturdays at 3 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. An active fraternal and social organization dedicated to bring together mature gay and bisexual men for friendship, activities, support, and personal growth for the best times of our lives. Free. Call 561- 533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com. First Monday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon at Compass, 201 N. Dixie Hwy, Lake Worth. A social group focusing on the mature LGBT+ community in Palm Beach County, providing a relaxed environment for meeting friends, discussing interesting topics, and engaging in community projects. Free to attend, email joekolb@compassglcc. com for details.

miami-dade *Mix-N-Mingle Party: Mardi Gras Carnival

Saturday, February 22, 2020 at 8 PM. The Gay Vista Social Club builds friendships throughout South Florida for the LGBTQ community in a way to interact with other

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. Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at South Beach AIDS Project, 1234 Washington Ave. Ste. 200 in Miami Beach. A support group for those who are HIV positive. Free. Call 305-535-4733, ext. 301 or email support@sobeaids.org.

key west Taco Brunch and All Day Happy Hour

Every Sunday (opening at 8 a.m.) at Mellow Cafe and Gastropub, 1605 N. Roosevelt Blvd, Key West. Spend the day drinking and downing tacos at this all-day happy hour, each week on Sunday!

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