SFGN 03/18/21 V12iss11 by South Florida Gay News

LOCAL NAME GLOBAL COVERAGE MARCH 18, 2021 VOL. 12 // ISSUE 11

GET OVER IT!

MAYOR TELLS LGBT COMMUNITY TO CELEBRATE ANTI-GAY CHURCH PAGES 4, 18, 20 - 23

Dean Trantalis. COVER BY BRENDON LIES.

Vatican Says ‘No’ PAGE 6 SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS

Superman Celebrates Pride PAGE 11 @SFGN

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Tax Talk PAGE 27

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NEWS HIGHLIGHT

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NATIONAL MS SOCIETY WANTS LGBT COMMUNITY TO KNOW:

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU John Hayden

atigue, dizziness, some numbness. These are little symptoms that are easy to ignore, but they can be warnings of a bigger problem: Multiple Sclerosis (MS). More than a million Americans have the disease, a disease that doesn’t discriminate. Now the National MS Society wants South Florida’s LGBT community to know that help is available for patients, their families and caregivers. Robin Nunley is the president of the South and Mid Florida chapter. She recently told SFGN about their outreach into communities Pictured: Robin Nunley, Rocco Mangel and Cyndi Zagieboylo. that too often don’t know Photo via the National MS Society. that there is assistance out there, or think they wouldn’t great way to engage in the The work of NMSS and their teams of be eligible because they’re community and help those volunteers pays off immediately. They provide family, not patients. with MS,” Nunley said. “Of medical and legal help to patients and their - Doug Bonds “MS is a disease that course, this year has been circle, as well as running podcasts, support CHAIR OF THE FORT impacts the family, so it is not a bit different with all of groups and more. Their MS Navigators help LAUDERDALE COMMUNITY unusual to see families and our events going virtual, match people with assistance specific to their COUNCIL AND AMBASSADOR caregivers participating in but there are also some needs, and are available at 1-800-344-4867. FOR THE NATIONAL MS SOCIETY our self-help groups, reaching virtual opportunities too! NMSS isn’t only reaching out to the out to our MS Navigators to We need help making phone LGBT outside, Nunley said they’re making have questions answered or calls, working at rest stops, employees and volunteers from our get specific guidance,” Nunley said. “What setting up for the events and breaking down, community feel welcome through their is probably most encouraging, is seeing contacting legislators to help pass laws … and Inclusive Voices program. caregivers, coworkers, families and friends of course, our leadership volunteers.” “The fact that MS is present in all come out to WalkMS to support their loved Doug Bonds is the chair of the Fort populations led us to reflect that diversity one’s journey with the disease.” Lauderdale Community Council and internally. We value and welcome diverse Most people don’t think they know anyone ambassador for the National MS Society and perspectives so that everyone feels free to with MS, but they’re likely wrong. Symptoms knows firsthand how the organization helps. bring their whole selves and contribute fully often go dormant, meaning the patient is “When my partner and I have needed help to our mission,” she said. “We have created living with MS just fine for the moment and the NMSS has always been there no matter an environment that is a SAFE place to talk their friends have no idea. Like everyone else, what,” he said. “I sometimes feel like the work about challenges, experiences and ideas and NMSS has had to adjust during the pandemic, I do is not enough after all they have done for we engage, value and empower others, always meaning fundraisers and community us.” seeking diverse perspectives.” involvement took a hit. Now they’re having virtual events that raise If you or someone you know could benefit from what NMSS offers or want to donate time or money, money and, just as importantly, awareness. you can learn more at their website: nationalMSsociety.org. “Volunteering with our organization is a

“WHEN MY PARTNER AND I HAVE NEEDED HELP THE NMSS HAS ALWAYS BEEN THERE NO MATTER WHAT.”

SEE OUR NEWS IN VIDEO! Online now! 2

• 3.18 . 2021

COVER: Dean Trantalis. Photo edited by Brendon Lies.

Associated Press

@SFGN

March 18, 2021 • Volume 12 • Issue 11

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NLGJA Journalist of the Year SOUTH FLORIDA GAY NEWS.COM, INC. — — FOUNDED, DECEMBER, 2009 BY PIER GUIDUGLI AND NORM KENT South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Copyright © 2021 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

3.18 . 20 21 •

NEWS LOCAL

DEAN TRANTALIS TO LGBT COMMUNITY ON ANTI-LGBT CHURCH:

‘IT’S TIME...TO LET GO OF IT’ Christiana Lilly

uring its Tuesday night commission meeting, the Fort Lauderdale Commission presented a proclamation to Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church and Westminster Academy, two entities with a long anti-LGBT history.

The proclamation recognized the 60th anniversary of the church and the 50th anniversary of the school, founded by Dr. D. James Kennedy, who espoused harmful rhetoric against the LGBT community before his death in 2007. “It’s time to build a future based on love and not hate, and it’s time for those who still harbor resentment to let go of it,” Mayor Dean Trantalis said. “I know I have and I know my community has.” Prior to the proclamation being read aloud, Vice Mayor Steven Glassman, who is gay, read aloud a statement that he previously shared with SFGN. He noted the painful history the church and its founder have and that Dr. D. James Kennedy Ministries is listed by the Southern Poverty Law Center as a hate group in the state of Florida. “It is a sanitized and whitewashed history of Dr. Kennedy and the church,” he said of the proclamation. Proclamations are typically non-controversial affairs at the beginning of the meeting — other proclamations presented during the meeting included the 100th anniversary of the Fort Lauderdale Rotary Club and Greek

IN SEPTEMBER, THE CHURCH TWEETED ABOUT BEING CALLED TO “PROTECT THE BIBLICAL MODEL OF MARRIAGE” WHEN THINKING ABOUT WHO TO VOTE FOR. 4

• 3.18 . 2021

Independence Day. Trantalis, who is the city’s first openly gay mayor, responded to Glassman. He mentioned his own history of protesting against the church for its anti-LGBT stance and conversion therapy. “There’s no doubt that the Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church and one of its previous pastors have been a difficult challenge for our community, and to say the least, I stood out there on sidewalks and demonstrated in front of the convention center as well as their church in which we protested the types of practices that that church engaged in once upon a time.” He went on to say that for the last few years, he has made it a point to “build bridges before there were none” and has met with faith-based leaders, including dinners. Glassman applauded this, but said none of this progress was noted in the proclamation. He also asked whether an LGBT child would be welcomed at Westminster Academy, or a straight child who has LGBT parents. In September, the church tweeted about being called to “protect the biblical model of marriage” when thinking about who to vote for. “Those issues are still out there and they’re out there strong, mayor. That’s why so many people are questioning this proclamation,” Glassman said, adding that he has been inundated with calls, texts and emails. Trantalis said he has also had people from around the state question him on the proclamation. In the last few days, Truth Wins Out tweeted that honoring the church was the same as honoring the KKK and Equality Florida said it goes against the city’s progress of banning conversion therapy and receiving a perfect score by the Human Rights Campaign. Members of the community also pointed to the late Wilton Manors Mayor Justin Flippen, who shared that he attended the church many years ago for “group counseling” to undo his homosexuality. The Rev. Kennedy was the author of a number of books, including “What’s Wrong

Dean Trantalis during a past virtual Fort Lauderdale Commission meeting. Image via YouTube.

With Same-Sex Marriage?” in 2004, where he wrote about how “a tiny fraction of our population is on the verge of redefining the institution of marriage for all of us.” One of the most-watched Christian broadcasters of his time, he wrote an endorsement of the comic book “Homosexuality: Legitimate, Alternate Deathstyle,” which was printed on the back cover. According to the SPLC, Kennedy called “essential” the work of R.J. Rushdoony’s Chalcedon Foundation, which devoted an entire issue of its Chalcedon Report magazine to “the fallacy of gay marriage” and preached that under God’s law, homosexuals should be executed. In 1989, in his own newsletter, SPLC says Kennedy ran photos of children with the words, “Sex With Children? Homosexuals Say Yes!” In 2011, SPLC also included Coral Ridge Ministries, the action arm of the church, on its list of anti-gay groups. The church merged with New City Presbyterian Church in 2009 under the helm of Tullian Tchividjian, the grandson of Billy Graham. When he decided to not take on divisive issues, about 500 people, including Kennedy’s daughter, left. Tchividjian said his church was not affiliated with Coral Ridge Ministries; he resigned from the church in 2015. “Tchividjian was always unpopular with the religious right activists who missed

Rev. Kennedy’s reign of terror,” wrote SFGN columnist Jesse Monteagudo. Trantalis said, “Their minds are in the past. We have to learn to evolve and become better people. There’s a lot of people who seem to profit and benefit from fear-mongering and hate. We recently experienced that in leadership in this country and it took us to a dark place. We need to pull ourselves out of that dark place.” Before reading the proclamation, Commissioner Heather Moraitis — who is a member of the church, serves as the school’s director of development, and whose husband is a church elder — said that the first man she ever loved was gay. “My grandfather had 13 children and came out as a gay gentleman and I will always love him and value him,” she said. “I’ve loved many other gay men and women, including you, Steve, and you, Dean, and it’s a privilege to serve with you. Today, I’m just speaking from a point of love and recognition.” She went on to say that the church’s pro-life stance is very important to her and “I defend my church and my school every day.” Pastor Rob Pacienza was present to receive the proclamation and said, “I think for far too long, the church has been known more for what they’ve been against than what they’ve been for, and we look forward to building those bridges.”

FOLLOW THIS DEVELOPING STORY ONLINE AT SFGN.COM.

3.18 . 20 21 •

NEWS NATIONAL

VATICAN SAYS CATHOLIC CHURCH CANNOT BLESS SAME-SEX UNIONS Michael K. Lavers Washington Blade

he Vatican on Monday said the Catholic Church cannot bless same-sex unions. The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which defends Catholic teachings, in a two-page decree it published on its website said it cannot bless “sin.” “It is not licit to impart a blessing on was the archbishop of Buenos Aires when relationships, or partnerships, even stable, then-President Cristina Fernández de that involve sexual activity outside of Kirchner signed it into law in 2020. marriage [i.e., outside the indissoluble The Vatican’s tone towards LGBTunion of a man and a woman open in itself specific issues has softened since Francis to the transmission of life], as is the case of became pope in 2013. Church teachings on the unions between persons of the same homosexuality and gender identity, however, sex,” reads the decree. have not changed. “The presence in such “It is not surprising, but relationships of positive still disappointing, that the elements, which are in Vatican has responded ‘no’ to themselves to be valued the dubium about whether and appreciated, cannot the church can bless samejustify these relationships sex unions,” said Francis and render them legitimate DeBernardo, executive objects of an ecclesial director of New Ways blessing, since the positive Ministry, a Maryland-based elements exist within the group that ministers to LGBT context of a union not Catholics, in a statement. ordered to the Creator’s “This decision though is plan.” an impotent one because it The decree, which Pope won’t stop the movement to Francis approved, is dated bless such couples, and, in Feb. 22. The Congregation fact, it will actually encourage for the Doctrine of the Faith Catholics in the pews and the published it less than five many Catholic leaders who months after the pontiff are eager for such blessings publicly endorsed civil to happen to work harder in unions for same-sex couples. their support — and blessing “Homosexuals have a right — of same-sex couples,” - Esteban Paulón to be a part of the family,” added DeBernardo. LGBT ACTIVIST IN said Francis in “Francesco,” Esteban Paulón, an LGBT ARGENTINA a documentary about his life activist in Argentina, echoed that debuted at the Rome DeBernardo. Film Festival on October 21, “It truly doesn’t surprise 2020. “They’re children of God and have a me,” Paulón told the Washington Blade right to a family. Nobody should be thrown on Monday after the Congregation for the out, or be made miserable because of it.” Doctrine of the Faith published its decree. Francis, who was then known as Jorge “We have seen consistently ambiguous Bergoglio, vehemently opposed a marriage signals in relation to the LGBTI community equality bill in his native Argentina. Francis during the eight years of Francis’ papacy.”

“WE HAVE SEEN CONSISTENTLY AMBIGUOUS SIGNALS IN RELATION TO THE LGBTI COMMUNITY DURING THE EIGHT YEARS OF FRANCIS’ PAPACY.”

• 3.18 . 2021

The Vatican. Photo credit: Mark Freeth, via Flickr.

Juan Carlos Cruz, a gay man from Chile who is a survivor of clergy sex abuse, met with Francis at the Vatican in 2018. Cruz on Monday referenced Tomás de Torquemada, who spearheaded the Spanish Inquisition, in his response to the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith’s decree. “The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and especially its prefects are completely in a world of their own, away from people and trying to defend the indefensible,” Cruz told the Blade. “We see it in this quest to annihilate LGBT people, in the slowness with which the crimes of abuse are dealt with, their inhumanity in their awareness of people’s suffering so contrary to Pope Francis who I

don’t know why he allows such inhumane and self-interested people in charge.” Cruz added if “the church and the CDF [Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith] do not advance with the world and in addition to living constantly rejecting and speaking negatively and not putting priorities where they should be, Catholics will continue to flee and we will become a rigid church, of norms, pointing the finger at many and that will only make people run and walk away.” “As a Catholic, I would immediately ask for a change in the leadership of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which every day resembles that of the infamous Torquemada himself and not that of the pastors that Francis proposes to us,” said Cruz.

Michael K. Lavers is the international news editor of the Washington Blade. Washington Blade courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association.

NEWS NATIONAL

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Flying the bisexual pride flag. Photo via Adobe.

arch receives a lot of attention as Women’s History Month, but it’s also Bisexual+ Health Awareness Month. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness about the social, economic, education, and health disparities for people who identify as bisexual, pansexual, fluid, or queer. The Bisexual Resource Center (BRC) leads the effort. Twenty twenty-one marks the eighth year the group has organized efforts on social media. This year’s campaign focuses on equity. The diverse bi+ community achieves equity when its unique needs are met, and discrimination against BIPOC, transgender, and disabled members of the bi+ community is eliminated.

“ALTHOUGH BISEXUAL+ PEOPLE ARE THE MAJORITY OF THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY, WE DON’T BENEFIT FROM THE SAME RESEARCH, RESOURCES, OR ATTENTION AS OUR GAY OR STRAIGHT PEERS.” - Belle Haggett Silverman PRESIDENT OF THE BISEXUAL RESOURCE CENTER

According to GLAAD, bisexual+ people are already at greater risk than our gay and straight peers for things like poor physical and mental health, intimate partner violence, and living in poverty. Health disparities are even worse for bi+ people of color and trans people. “Although bisexual+ people are the majority of the LGBTQ+ community, we don’t benefit from the same research, resources, or attention as our gay or straight peers,” said Belle Haggett Silverman, President of the Bisexual Resource Center, in a widely released statement. “At work, at school, and the doctor’s office, our needs are often overlooked, creating serious challenges to our health and well-being.” Throughout March, the BRC will partner with a diverse array of leading organizations, including #StillBisexual, AIDS United, Gender Stories, American Psychological Association, Athlete Ally, Bi+ Podcast, BiRequest, BiSocial Network, CenterLink: the Community of LGBT Centers, Equality Florida, Family Equality Council, Open Door Health, PFLAG National, Bi Women Quarterly, SAGE, the Ally Coalition, the Task Force, the Trevor Project; and more to feature engaging and informative content, events, research, resources, and actions. The BRC invites individuals, organizations, media outlets, companies, and more to participate all month long by posting online using #BiHealthMonth.

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LGBTQIA BITES

BY KENDALL LITTLE

IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT THE G Bisexual

LADY GAGA WINS GRAMMY AWARD Bisexual pop icon Lady Gaga was nominated for two grammy awards and won one this year. She and Ariana Grande won the Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for their performance of “Rain On Me.” This marks Gaga’s 12th grammy award over the course of her career. Fans quickly flocked to social media to congratulate the two singers. “Lady Gaga and Ariana won the grammy’s because they deserved it so stay pressed ya’all!” one Twitter user wrote. Some Grammy-watchers believe that Gaga didn’t deserve the award over other artists, but diehard fans defended her fiercely. “i love lady gaga and ari ive been listening to the[m] for forever and they also worked hard for that grammy so clap it up congrats,” a fan tweeted.

• 3.18 . 2021

Lady Gaga. Photo via Facebook.

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

Queer

MARVEL TO CELEBRATE PRIDE MONTH IN A UNIQUE WAY

Marvel has planned something big and unique for Pride Month this year. The company plans on releasing a pride book called “Marvel’s Voices: Pride” on June 23. The book will include LGBT characters from across the Marvel universe, including X-Men characters Iceman, Northstar and Mystique, The Runaways’ Nico Minoru and Karolina Dean, and Young Avengers’ Wiccan and Hulkling, according to NBC News. The comic franchise also plans on starting a new limited series in June that would introduce the first ever LGBT Captain America. The comic will be centered on Aaron Fischer, an openly gay man who calls himself “Captain America of the Railways” and prides himself on protecting the

Image courtesy of Marvel.

homeless and runaways. “Aaron is inspired by heroes of the queer community: activists, leaders, and everyday folks pushing for a better life. He stands for the oppressed, and the forgotten. I hope his debut story resonates with readers, and helps inspire the next generation of heroes,” writer Aaron Trujillo said in a Marvel press release.

ind-2879-SFGN-3-AD01-v03-r01-MECH.pdf

3/14/21

6:24 PM

LGBTQIA BITES

Transgender

DISNEY CASTS THEIR FIRST TRANS ACTOR IN A FILM ROLE

Disney’s latest animated film, “Raya and the Last Dragon” includes a mostly AsianAmerican cast, including Kelly Marie Tran, Awkwafina, and Daniel Dae Kim, but they made history within the company when they casted Patti Harrison, a trans actress. Harrison voices a minor character, Tail Chief. “The movie is set in a fictional universe called Kumandra, and opens with five tribes: Heart, Talon, Spine, Fang, and Tail. Harrison is the chiefess of the Tail tribe,” LGBTQ Nation writes. Fans and critics noted that trans actors typically play trans characters, but this is not the case for Harrison. “While she’s only there for one scene and has just a couple lines, it’s still an important milestone for trans actors getting more roles,” according to Out. Though Harrison only plays a minor role in the film, it shows progress toward more inclusive casting within Walt Disney Studios.

CMY

Patti Harrison. Photo via @party_harderson, Instagram.

3.18 . 20 21 •

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

BY EVERITT ROSEN

THE WORLD AROUND

EUROPE

ASIA

EUROPEAN UNION PROCLAIMS ITSELF AN ‘LGBT FREEDOM ZONE’

OUTRAGE OVER DEATH OF SOUTH KOREA’S FIRST TRANS SOLDIER

In recent years, around 100 towns and regions across Poland declared themselves free of “LGBT ideology.” Meanwhile the European Union has declared itself an “LGBT freedom zone.” Hours before the European Parliament’s declaration in support of LGBT rights, the Polish government announced a proposal for an adoption ban that would criminalize applying for adoption as a single parent in a same-sex relationship, according to BBC News. The European Union’s resolution states that every LGBT person in the EU should enjoy the freedom to live and publicly show their sexual orientation and gender identity without the fear of intolerance, discrimination or persecution. The resolution was supported by 492 Members of European Parliament, while

Photo via Pixabay.

141 voted against it and 46 abstained. BBC reported that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that Poland’s “LGBT-free zones” had “no place in our union,” and vowed to push all EU member states to recognize adoptions by same-sex couples.

The death of South Korea’s first identified transgender soldier has sparked outrage and demands for change. After being discharged from the South Korean Army in 2019 following her genderreassignment surgery, transgender soldier, Byun Hee-soo, was found dead. The South China Morning Post reported that the defense ministry classified the removal of her male genitals as a mental or physical handicap, and shortly after, a military panel ruled that she would be compulsorily discharged. Hee-soo’s death caused widespread mourning and demands for South Korean lawmakers to pass an anti-discrimination bill. According to the South China Morning Post, a poster on Daum, the country’s second-largest portal, said, “The entire

U.S. Army photos by Cpl. Han, Jae Ho.

Korean society bears responsibility for her death.” Other international rights groups have previously voiced their concerns about the way South Korea treats its LGBT soldiers, who can face up to two years in prison if caught engaging in same-sex acts, which contradicts actions that are legal in civilian life. Police are still investigating her death, but the death is currently being treated as a suicide.

AFRICA

CENTRAL AMERICA

‘KILL THE GAYS’ BILL AUTHOR VIES FOR HIGHER POSITION IN UGANDA

PANAMA BANS SAME-SEX COUPLES FROM ADOPTING

One of the seven candidates competing to be Deputy Speaker of the Uganda Parliament is David Bahati, a member of parliament who introduced an AntiHomosexuality bill in October of 2009. According to Erasing 76 Crimes, Bahati’s bill would have created the offense of “aggravated homosexuality,” which would have been punishable by death. This bill later earned the name “Kill the Gays Bill.” President Yoweri Museveni later signed the bill into law in February 2014, with the death penalty proposal reduced to a life sentence in prison. Though the Constitutional Court struck down the law, citing a procedural breach, the damage had already been done to the LGBT community. Frank Mugisha, the Sexual Minorities Uganda executive director, stated that

EXPLORING LGBT NEWS EVENTS ACROSS THE GLOBE

• 3.18.2021

David Bahati. Photo via the Government of Uganda.

Bahati will not hesitate to influence the introduction and passing of other anti-gay laws and other conservative laws that will affect Ugandans negatively. The current speaker, Rebecca Kadaga, defends Bahati and has gone on record stating that she is open to having his bill revived.

The government of Panama has passed a bill which claims to protect children and minors from being separated from their biological family. It also allows for children to be adopted by both single parents and married couples. Pink News reported that the bill defines a married couple as those who are composed of “different sex” partners because same-sex marriages are not yet legal in Panama. The Human Rights Watch called upon Panama’s President Laurentino Cortizo to dismiss the articles that maintain biases against lesbians, gays, and bisexuals. This organization also stated that the bill contradicts recent statements made by the Panamanian government that said that it would not tolerate violations of the rights of LGBT people.

The National Assembly of Panama. Credit: Ayaita, via Wikipedia.

In July, the ministry of public security of Panama tweeted that its government establishments are respectful of human rights and condemn all forms of terror, xenophobia, homophobia, transphobia or bigotry, regardless of who perpetrates it.

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

BY ELLIOT RODRIGUEZ

GAY VINE THE

KEEP UP WITH THE CELEBRITIES IN OUR COMMUNITY

MUSIC

THE GREATEST

CELEBRITY

NEW PRONOUNS!

Freddie Mercury. Photo credit: Jorge Bernal.

HALSEY CHANGES PRONOUNS TO SHE/THEY AND FANS LOVE IT

50 YEARS OF QUEEN

While the name “Queen” is a household name at this point in time, 50 years have passed since the iconic band was formed. With timeless tracks like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Another One Bites the Dust,” and many more, the band has announced “The Greatest” will appear on their YouTube channel. “The Greatest,” is a 50-week YouTube series of clips showcasing highlights from the band’s career, Louder Sound stated. It will appear on March 19. A trailer has been posted on the channel to give fans a sneak peek. Out.com said, “‘Queen The Greatest’ chronologically celebrates key moments in the group’s history, from their early performances that stunned audiences with their combination of pounding rock

beats and Mercury’s flamboyant stage presence and unmatched classicallytrained voice and range, to the more recent collaboration with Adam Lambert.” Queen fans will be ready to snuggle up with some popcorn, and watch the footage come showtime.

Singer-songwriter Halsey, is met with a huge amount of support, when she changed her pronouns on her social media. The recently pregnant singer took to Instagram to express how motherhood has shaped her thinking about her gender. “I’ve been thinking lots about my body … I thought pregnancy would give me very strong, binary feelings about ‘womanhood’ but truly it has leveled my perception of gender entirely. My sensitivity to my body has made me hyper aware of my humanness and that’s all,” she said. Pink News mentioned how the changing of her pronouns gave others the strength to come out and do the same. One Twitter user said, “To just know

Halsey. Photo via Facebook.

someone you’ve looked up to for so long shares the same pronouns as u means the fucking world my heart is so full of love for them.” Others have even made their own memes about sharing the same pronouns as one of their favorite singers. There’s been nothing but love for this mom to be, and there seems to be more to come.

COMICS

SUPER!

DC COMICS CELEBRATES PRIDE MONTH DC is here to support the LGBT community during Pride Month. With a special, 80-page anthology comic that features LGBT characters from across the DC Universe, be prepared to see the legends in action, according to Pride.com Special appearances from legends like Harley Quinn, Batwoman and Poison Ivy, are scheduled to show in the anthology. DC states they “will also release a series of Pride-themed variant covers showcasing DC’s leading characters through the month of June … featuring covers with Batman, Harley, Ivy, Superman, Wonder Woman, and more, all by cutting-edge comic book artists.” A sneak peek at the seven variant covers

shown on DC’s website, show all the legendary characters. Such as the one and only Superman sitting on what seems to be a bronze globe, while holding the LGBT flag draped over his left shoulder. Along with Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy caressing each other on a bed of violet, pink and blue flowers. DC also says that “Pride plans aren’t limited to June.” “Crush and Lobo,” will debut between June 21 and continue until January 2022. The queer character Crush is ready to make a big impact coming this Pride month. DC is pulling out all the goods for this Pride Month and fans are ready for every one of them.

The Superman pride variant cover. Photo credit: DC.

3.18 . 20 21 •

NEWS LOCAL

J.R.’s SNAPSHOTS

OF THE

From your life... into our pages! SFGN takes a weekly look at a community that has stood together through countless trials and victories in the past year alone.

WEEK Photos by J.R. Davis

Joe Pallant, your favorite insurance guy, with Steve Wetzler, your favorite real estate agent.

Mona’s Dean Knapp, owner Jerry Schultz, and Jason Pelky.

South Beach Nathan’s hostess Dasha, owner Nathan Paul Smith and designer Alexander Wellington.

Honoring Luis Montoya for his 17 years of service as Alibi Restroom Attendant.

• 3.18.2021

NEWS LOCAL

Photo via the Aqua Foundation for Women, Facebook.

AQUA FOUNDATION HOSTS ‘HEALTH AND WELLNESS FROM A BODY POSITIVE PERSPECTIVE’ MARCH 25 Self-Image: Mind Body & Soul

John Hayden

etween Instagram, Tik-Toks, and focus on health and wellness from a body regular old TV, different body types positive perspective. A pair of dynamic are celebrated now more than ever. speakers are scheduled to educate and But outward appearances are still over- inspire. Carrie Guzanick considers herself emphasized, and not nearly enough care is a truth seeker. She has spent more than 17 given to the rest of ourselves. The old cliche years learning yoga, sound healing, diet, is true: it’s what’s on the inside that counts. cleansing and talk therapy. Now she teaches March is Women’s History Month, and the these techniques to others while pursuing Aqua Foundation for Women is marking the a master’s degree in marriage and family occasion with an empowering therapy. event: Health and Wellness Guzanick will be joined by Vivi from a Body Positive Villagra, a person of many skills Perspective. and expertise. Villagra is a Reiki “Many women are Master, Shaman, Sound Intuitive, dissatisfied with their Plant Alchemist, Kambo appearance and disconnected Practitioner, Yoga Teacher, and from their body,” a press Humble Healer. Her passion is release from Aqua states. to help people heal and rise up. “Eating disorders are rampant As co-owner of Agni Miami she in the United States and knows everybody is different and in many western cultures. needs to be celebrated, and for Oftentimes when going to people to feel empowered and a health or fitness coach good about themselves. you are exposed to constant Aqua Foundation was created - Press Release weighing, measuring, body to serve the LBT communities AQUA FOUNDATION fat pinches, and weight loss in South Florida. They offer talk.” mentoring, scholarship They believe that approach only goes programs, community outreach and so far. “Let’s stop creating unrealistic and emergency assistance to those in need. unattainable goals for ourselves and redefine They developed the Aqua Cares initiative what healthy is.” as a virtual space for collaboration, Their virtual event March 25 at 3 p.m. will communication, and information.

“Let’s stop creating unrealistic and unattainable goals for ourselves and redefine what healthy is.”

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THEMIRROR

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TOP 2020 STORIES OF

ST YEAR? INDOORS LA SSED KEEP YOU MI PANDEMIC AT YOU MAY HAVE WH HERE’S

To learn more about AFW and this event, check out their website at Aquafoundation.org. 3.18 . 20 21 •

NEWS NATIONAL

VOLUSIA SCHOOL BOARD REJECTS RESOLUTION FOR LGBT STUDENTS Christiana Lilly

ext week could have been LGBTQ+ Health Awareness Week in Volusia County Schools, but a resolution failed, with three parents comparing it to promoting masturbation and pedophilia, according to the Daytona News-Journal.

During the School Board’s March 9 “So School Board members, I ask you, meeting, the resolution never received a what if this was put into play: What if you second after a school board member made a are asked to sign on a masturbation/selfmotion to pass it. If it had passed, the week stimulation-plus Health Awareness Week? would have fallen during the district’s Spring If you’re asking or thinking, feeling appalled Break. or embarrassed: That’s exactly how I and “It was very disappointing and shocking, several other parents felt, with the LGBTQ+ particularly when you think we passed the Awareness Week.” same one a year ago 5-0,” Volusia County Persis said the comments were “baffling.” School Board member Carl “I couldn’t even look at Persis told SFGN. “I said those parents. I mean it was you are either a racist or just hard for me. Good thing you’re not. You either want we have on our masks so to discriminate against this they couldn’t see my facial group of children or you don’t. expression.” You’re either homophobic or But others were not you’re not … By not supporting happy with the resolution this, you’re sending a terrible not passing. School board message to the parents of these members have received children as well as the children comments from parents, and themselves.” a petition for the awareness Persis was the one who made week to continue was a motion to pass the resolution, created on change.org, with with no one seconding. The 115 people signing out of resolution did not call for any the goal of 200 at the time education or even recognition of reporting. Others took of LGBTQ+ Health Awareness to Twitter to show their Week for students. But three disappointment. parents spoke out against the During the meeting, resolution, according to the Persis said he read aloud the - Carl Persis West Volusia Beacon, and one resolution line by line, asking VOLUSIA COUNTY SCHOOL comment included: board members what they BOARD MEMBER “Why are we giving a had a problem with. They week to observe such a small had no comment. Afterward, percentage group when there are other they shared their opinions, including that it groups that don’t get the same? We live in wasn’t the job of educators to teach “politics” a society that, rather than seek to bring a to students or that the topic might come healthy and stable help to these kids, even up with students. School board member with gender dysphoria, we in turn, embrace Anita Burnette stated the resolution was it as normal and give them hormone blockers not inclusive. In a letter to the editor at and ultimately genitalia mutilation.” the Ormond Beach Observer, she further And another parent said to the board explained that she was not in favor of the members: resolution because it was “toothless.”

“By not supporting this, you’re sending a terrible message to the parents of these children as well as the children themselves.”

• 3.18.2021

Photo via the Volusia County Schools website.

“I could not in good conscience support a resolution that relegated such an important issue to spring break when students would not be in school,” she wrote. “The resolution dismissed the values of inclusion that it allegedly represented. We cannot keep passing toothless statements of support instead of tackling the very real problems our LGBTQ+ students are facing.” Persis told SFGN that there’s no reason to reject the resolution — that they can have a resolution as well as more work is done for LGBT students. The editorial board of the News-Journal published an opinion piece stating that “In taking the time from their undoubtedly busy days to attend the School Board meeting

and air their opinions, these three parents performed an invaluable public service: They showed School Board members exactly why such a resolution — a resolution, and so much more — is needed.” And Persis is remaining optimistic about what the school board will do moving forward, especially as some of them face backlash. “Now we’re about a week later and I think some good is going to come from this,” he said. “I really think the rebound on this is going to be good. I don’t know what it’s going to be, but I just have a sense I think we’re going to come at it even stronger now that they’ve had some time to reflect a little bit on what kind of a message that they sent.”

PA L M B E A C H

news

KAVA BAR POSTS TRANSPHOBIC, ANTI-MASK MESSAGES ON INSTAGRAM (AGAIN) Christiana Lilly A KAVA BAR BASED IN LAKE WORTH NOT ONLY ANNOUNCED THAT IT IS BANNING FACE MASKS FROM ITS FLORIDA AND ARIZONA LOCATIONS, BUT IT AGAIN POSTED A TRANSPHOBIC MESSAGE. In response to the original face mask ban, the Kavasutra Kava Bar posted that that “Masks are for leftist losers, teachers unions are trash, women are born with ovaries, and we are doing slams at midnight tonight.” On Tuesday, the company — which touts itself as a “welcoming and relaxed atmosphere,” posted on its corporate Instagram page that they were banning all school teachers who are opting out of in-person teaching by choice as well as banning face masks from their Florida and Arizona locations. The post received mixed results, with some people applauding the company while others criticized them. The same day, they shared another post emphasizing their thoughts on masks, as well as transgender men. This also received mixed comments, including some calling them patriots who needed to be supported. Kavasutra posted again with the Yelp logo that they “strive to have a 1-star from all these fake leftist Silicon Valley losers.” Kava is a drink made from an extract from a Polynesian plant, popular for its relaxing effects. Kava “slams” are akin to taking shots. The Instagram pages for specific stores haven’t shared the posts. There are 12 stores in Florida, including Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Lake Worth and Jupiter, and one in Arizona. Because New York and Colorado have statewide mask mandates, they are unable to create the ban at those stores. “New York and Colorado are a bunch of pussy leftists so they can cover their mouths with a dirty cloth,” they wrote. When SFGN called the Fort Lauderdale location, the employee who answered the call said they were unable to comment. A bartender at the Delray Beach location said they were not aware of the posts, but, “They’ve been known to troll people online and stuff, but I don’t think it’s meant to be taken [seriously].” An employee, who asked to be

Kavasutra Kava Bar. Photo via Instagram.

anonymous, told the Miami New Times that the posts don’t reflect the views of all the staff. “It’s very divided now. We have a lot of regular customers disappointed in the company, and a lot of employees feel like this has compromised the trust we have with regular customers,” they said. According to an Instagram post by the New York location, they have a sign with a picture of New York City Mayor DeBlasio struck through in red and the words “F$&K YOU DEBLASIO” above. Also on their Instagram, they announced that on March 19 they are hosting “Cultural Appropriation Friday” with a cholo theme. A “cholo” is the nickname for Chicano or Latino people typically associated with street gangs. During the election, they posted photos of the White House with a sign over it “Trader Joe’s Coming Soon,” President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in front of an edited Dumpster fire, and a screenshot of Candace Owens’ criticizing Black Lives Matter protests after the Capitol siege. During the holidays, the bar wished everyone a Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas from “everyone’s favorite … gender conforming kava bar.” This isn’t the first time the company has made posts that caught people’s attention. In 2018, Kavasutra Kava Bar was called out for their transphobia for hosting a kava slam for “genetic females,” emphasizing that “chicks means born with a vagina. You must have ovaries.” The posts went viral.

3.18 . 20 21 •

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH BIPOC

THE EVOLUTION OF MARIAN BACOL-UBA RAISING THE VOICES OF BLACK AND BROWN FOLKS Carina Mask

arian Bacol-Uba is the founder of Thriver Lifestyle and Thriver Con. She spends her day helping womxn, people of color, and non-binary entrepreneurs fully express themselves and hone their public speaking skills in order to achieve competent expression.

Thriver Con is an intentional and diverse in sight, Bacol-Uba decided to change the virtual conference which took place on format of the event and to develop a virtual September 22 and 23, 2020, highlighting platform so that everyone around the world BIPOC entrepreneurs and providing them a would be able to tune in. platform to speak on their expertise. Bacol-Uba painstakingly organized the Bacol-Uba has attended conference in less than two countless conferences; it months. seemed like diversity and She was ecstatic to share inclusion were always an that 10% of the ticket sales afterthought. She intentionally net proceeds from Thriver sought out women of color Con would be donated to with diverse backgrounds and AnnieCannons, a California expertise in order to create a based 501c3 that transforms the multifocal conference. lives of survivors of human sex The conference featured a trafficking and gender-based total of 18 speakers; they were violence into software engineers Indigenous, Latinx, Middle and entrepreneurs. Eastern, Asian, non-binary and Planning for Thriver Con has queer speakers who all shared already begun; it’s tentatively their stories and strategies on scheduled for March of 2021. She - Marian Bacol-Uba entrepreneurship, marketing, is seeking out more corporate finance and video content clients who have bigger budgets creation, subsequently integrating them so that the speakers can be paid more as with self-care practices such as breathing well as offering more scholarships for BIPOC exercises and meditation. entrepreneurs. “When people talk about diversity and inclusion, [they] were always a part of me. FROM VICTIM TO SURVIVOR, I am a Filipina, I am an immigrant — going THEN THRIVER into the business world, I realized I had not seen anyone who looked like me. They were Thriver is a paramount word and belief predominantly white cis men so I didn’t for Bacol-Uba, which led her to her powerful really relate. It made it seem that success was transformation. unobtainable as a Black or Brown person.” Bacol-Uba was born into a family with very Originally the conference was supposed strong and independent matriarchal figures to be held with all attendees at a venue, on a small island called Camiguin in the however, with COVID-19 and no real end Philippines. When her mother immigrated

“IT MADE IT SEEM THAT SUCCESS WAS UNOBTAINABLE AS A BLACK OR BROWN PERSON.”

Marian Bacol-Uba. Photo credit: Carina Mask.

• 3.18.2021

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH BIPOC to America, she was left in the Phillipines conscious decisions and moment to moment to live with her maternal grandmother choices to thrive instead of relying on the and lesbian non-binary aunts. Her two mindset that she developed during her aunts were venerated for their wisdom and victim or survivor mode. entrepreneurial spirit. “I made the choice to move from Los She jokes that her family life resembled Angeles to Miami with no job, no plan. Barely one of a Filipino drama: when Bacol-Uba’s any money and no friends.” mother gave birth to her out of wedlock, The change in mindset and scenery were her father was married to another woman monumental for Bacol-Uba. She knew that, and had his own family. She was raised in if she stayed in Los Angeles surrounded by Camiguin until she finally immigrated to the engrained vices, she would eventually fall United States when she was 5 years old. back into toxic habits. Bacol-Uba reminisces about her arrival in the United States, “In high school I was LEANING ON TOOLS OF freshman class president, on the honor roll, TRANSFORMATION DURING and that student who always sat in the front TIMES OF STRESS row and raised my hand for every question. I was that girl. No one knew that I lived a Meditation, counseling, and breathing double life, by the time I was 14, drugs and exercises are part of a multifaceted and alcohol were my best friends — when I was holistic approach for Bacol-Uba. drunk and high.” “These tools are something Bacol-Uba pauses for a I lean on every day. It’s not an moment and then starts, “I overnight fix — healing as a was able to numb my pain person of color is continuous and escape my reality. I was while we live in a world [full] depressed and suicidal. When of triggers, people who are most people think of home, uneducated or ignorant, and they think a safe and loving traumas.” place but for me, it was where “We need to take care of my father would sexually abuse ourselves to show up fully and me for seven years since I was serve our community if we’re 10 years old.” serving from a place of scarcity She remembers before the and sickness. This whole idea of sexual abuse, her father was martyrdom that we were taught an angry person and took out [from a young age], that’s not - Marian Bacol-Uba a lot of his aggression and sustainable. People burn out, frustration on her. mental health issues that arise “I was a victim and survivor of incest from that, because of that old paradigm. We and child sexual abuse, drug and alcohol need to shift from that [philosophy] and take addictions. I have tried committing suicide care of ourselves in order to serve from a multiple times.” place of abundance.” There was a pivotal moment in BacolBacol-Uba believes that tapping into the Uba’s life in July of 2014 when she overdosed power of community is imperative. and had an out of body experience. She “I found the courage to confront my described in detail, seeing her friends father, and we’ve been estranged ever since. distraught and crying. But I was able to speak my truth and to help “I always looked outward to fill a void, others.” whether it was relationships, work or substances, but for the first time ever, I • Victim Consciousness. You give went inward and sought for self-help books, all of your power away, you take no counseling, and meditation.” accountability for your thoughts, your Bacol-Uba based the Thriver Lifestyle words or actions, and you operate from program on her life, while she made fear and scarcity.

“WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER, DON’T TRY TO DO EVERYTHING ON OUR OWN!”

Marian Bacol-Uba. Photo credit: Carina Mask.

• From Survivor Consciousness. You might take some accountability, but you build a wall, and you disconnect yourself from authentic and vulnerable connections because you are still afraid of failure, rejection or getting hurt again. • A thriver is someone who flourishes, grows, and prospers despite adversity. Thriving on the Horizon: Creating a ripple effect of good; collaboration and community goes further than the positive actions of an individual. Bacol-Uba has huge goals for 2021, plans for Thriver Con of March 2021 is going to be bigger than ever. She wants to invite more corporate clients in order to get more sponsorships for emerging BIPOC leaders. The second part of the Conscious Public Speaker Mastermind program resumed in early 2021; it is a six-month program Cohort model. It’s a safe space that will function to solidify what the speaker’s signature talk is, their messaging, and hone them in order to

shape them into a business model. “You may have been a victim of something, but it is your choice to remain victimized for the rest of your life. You may have survived something terrible and traumatic, but it is a [conscious] choice to operate in survivor mode or you can change [your mindset] and turn your pain into purpose. [Change] your trauma into triumph.” Bacol-Uba wants to encourage everyone to tap into their networks, find like-minded individuals who share similar values and goals and collaborate with them. Bacol-Uba wants all of us to create and nurture our network of like-minded cohorts, she exclaims, “We are stronger together, don’t try to do everything on our own!” Celebration and gratitude will shift your mindset into being more positive; being resilient and adaptive is a part of life, insists Bacol-Uba. Failure is also an opportunity for great growth. “I want everyone to know that no matter what is happening in the world, we have the power to thrive.”

SEE OUR PAST BIPOC PROFILES ONLINE.

SFGN.com/bipoc Audrey Aradanas

Brielle Roundtree

Niki Lopez.

Jai Tahlea Allen-Ible

Ghenete “G” Wright Muir

Photos by Carina Mask.

3.18 . 20 21 •

Publisher's Editorial

CONVICTIONS

THE MAYOR SELLS HIS SOUL Dean Trantalis preaches a good sermon on love and forgiveness, but his words ring hollow to SFGN x

Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

here comes a time when we all have to stand naked before the cannon. In all our lives, there always comes a moment when we have to either stand on principle, or sell our soul to the devil. The gay mayor of Fort Lauderdale, who has refused for the past two years to talk to over six different reporters from SFGN, has found time to get into bed with the Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church, signing onto a proclamation commending their service to the city. He believes in redemption for an anti-gay church, but not for us, who champion the LGBT community week after week. So his talk of redemption rings hollow to me. His words may sound high and mighty but trust me they’re nothing more than empty platitudes. It does not matter that this paper has praised his leadership on a multitude of issues over the years, awarding him with a host of accolades and honors. Some of his work during the pandemic has been heroic. We dared to criticize him once or twice. Mayor Trantalis is still reeling from it. The good mayor can’t handle the truth that he abandoned the AIDS Health Care Foundation by sabotaging their progressive initiative to build a low-cost affordable housing complex in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The good mayor can’t handle that the sewage water seeping through the streets of Victoria Park poisons our neighborhoods because of years of neglect due to longserving city commissioners, of which he was one. The good mayor couldn’t handle it when we covered the equal rights ordinance in Fort

Lauderdale that he initially opposed, but later supported. Criticized editorially, he has deemed SFGN as irrelevant and inconsequential, ignoring our requests and overtures for quotes, stories, and interviews, on any and every issue. So be it. SFGN does not need Mayor Trantalis to publish the news. Apparently, he does not need us either. After all, he is the mayor of this town. He is above us now. He has new friends. Yes, those friends are the ones he used to stand on street corners and protest. They are the ones who said gays were deviant and perverted. They are the ones who still oppose same-sex marriage, and do not want lesbian parents partnering to raise children. Yes, Dean, let’s have redemption for those who have hated you and everything you have stood for — for years, even decades. Give them penance. Not us. You are such a loving person, willing to let bygones be bygones. “It’s time to move on,” you said in your grandiose speech, honoring a church that to this very moment and day, salutes the horrors of Doctor D. James Kennedy. It’s too bad, Mr. Mayor, that you have become totally incapable of practicing in your own life what you preach for others. The newspaper and the public have a word for that, Mr. Mayor. It’s called hypocrisy, and it now bears your name. The burdens and blessings of public office are many. We respect and understand the conflicting conundrums you face in serving the entire city, and not just the gay community.

IT’S TOO BAD, MR. MAYOR, THAT YOU HAVE BECOME TOTALLY INCAPABLE OF PRACTICING IN YOUR OWN LIFE WHAT YOU PREACH FOR OTHERS.

• 3.18.2021

Dean Trantalis. Photo via the City of Fort Lauderdale.

But maybe, just maybe, Mr. Mayor, you ought to think a little more about that age old popular Pete Seeger folk song, “Which side are you on, boys, which side are you on”? It’s your turn to stand naked before the cannon. You decide. Are you a man of your past principles, or are you simply another politician seeking expedience for the moment? SFGN will always respect the work Dean Trantalis has done for our community. Nothing will ever change that, but it doesn’t change this either. Where you see right, praise it. Where you see wrong, speak out against it. Today, the latter course is necessary.

You can’t forget the past when the past is not the past. This Church has not evolved. Don’t kid yourself. Look on another page of today’s paper to see what the Vatican just said about same sex marriage this week. My duty as a publisher is to see that you, our readers, get the news that matters to us. The mayor’s continuing refusal to communicate with our reporters or editors does not slight me. It does, you. It is a flat-out dereliction of his responsibilities as the mayor to deny your free gay press his public policy statements on issues of critical importance to all of us. Like the mayor just said to all of you, SFGN says to him: Get over it... it’s time to move on.

NEWS STATE

WEEKLY TRACKING OF COVID-19 IN SOUTH FLORIDA Sean McShee

CUMULATIVE KNOWN COVID-19 CASES IN Cumulative COVID-19 Cases in THREE SOUTHKnown FLORIDA COUNTIES: Three South Florida Counties:

MARCH 1010 THROUGH March through MARCH March 1616

Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 cases from 3/10 to 3/16 Palm Beach 1.7%, Broward 1.8%, and Miami Dade 1.5%

125,085

124,636

124,230

3/10

203,336

202,622

201,969

201,261

3/11

3/12

3/13

Palm Beach

204,870

204,247

203,832

126,355

126,062

125,866

125,506

428,873

427,600

426,900

426,149

424,903

423,714

422,540

3/14

3/15

Broward

3/16

Miami-Dade

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CUMULATIVE KNOWN COVID-19 DEATHS IN THREE SOUTH COUNTIES: Cumulative Known FLORIDA Deaths Cumulative COVID-19 Cases inin Three South South Florida FloridaCounties: Counties: Three MARCH 10 THROUGH MARCH 16 March March 10 10 through throughMarch March16 16

Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 deaths from 3/10 to 3/16 Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 cases from 3/10 to 3/16 Palm Beach 1.9%, Broward 1.8%, and Miami Dade 1.2% Palm Beach 1.7%, Broward 1.8%, and Miami Dade 1.5% 5,619

428,873

427,600

426,900

426,149

424,903

423,714

422,540

5,688

5,669

5,660

5,651

5,638

5,619

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124,230

3/103/10

2,535 201,969 2,520

2,545

202,622 2,533

125,085

124,636

3/113/11

Palm Beach

125,506

3/123/12

2,546 2,547 203,832

2,545

203,336 2,541

126,062

125,866

3/133/13

Palm Beach Broward Broward

2,569 204,247 2,549

3/143/14

3/15 3/15

@SILKLASERAESTHETICS 2,576

204,870 2,558

126,355

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3.18 . 20 21 •

Jesse’s Journal

CONVICTIONS

JOSEPH MCQUAY April 6, 1955 - February 20, 2021

Jesse Monteagudo

met Joseph McQuay in 1982, when he was hired as an editor of The Weekly News, Miami’s gay community newspaper. During his tenure as an editor, Joe improved that paper, and my contributions to it, with his journalistic and editorial talents and his affection for the community that he served. Joe was a kind and gentle man, with a soft Southern accent — Joe came from North Carolina, like my partner Michael Greenspan and, like Michael, he was a University of North Carolina alum. Joe cared a lot: for his family, his boyfriend Derek Cunard, and his best friend for life, Jim Stegall. Joe wrote about Jim so often that I dubbed Jim “South Florida’s most famous roommate.” Though Joe eventually left his TWN job for a more lucrative position at Barry University, we continued our friendship for years, though eventually we lost touch. According to his obituary, Joe graduated

Joe McQuay (right) and Derek Cunard; circa 1982. Photo courtesy of Derek Cunard.

• 3.18.2021

from West Charlotte High School and later from UNC, where he earned a journalism degree. While still in North Carolina Joe worked as Sports Editor for the Henderson Daily Dispatch, where he met Stegall. While editing TWN, McQuay also served on the Board of the Dade County Coalition for Human Rights for a brief period. He later worked for University Relations at Barry University; a job that kept him busy for 16 years. While at Barry Joe earned his MBA degree, met many celebrities, and continued his career as a human rights activist. Joe and Jim, always friends, returned to Charlotte in 2014. According to his obituary, Joe passed away peacefully after a courageous, 14-year battle with Dementia. Cliff O’Neill, who Joe McQuay hired as TWN’s assistant editor in 1986, succeeded him as editor in 1987. “Joe was an amazing guy, a great friend with a wicked sense of humor,” Cliff recalls. “As an editor, he helped turn me from a clueless 20-year-old graduate with no journalistic experience to a news editor through his keen eye and news sense. He helped shine a light at the onset of the HIV/AIDS crisis when no one else was paying any attention. When, in 1987, the Ray Family of Arcadia, Florida was burned out of their home because they wanted to send their HIVpositive children to the local school, he and I along with a small band of activist friends tossed journalistic objectivity to the wind, donned pseudonyms and became the SWAMP RATS [Society of Women and Men Protesting Reactionary AIDS Theories] and traveled to the town to demonstrate at the local courthouse, an activity that led to a massive ACT-Up operation and reactionary demonstrations from the KKK a year later.” I (Jesse) was one of the SWAMP RATS, and I remember that, after the protest, we were escorted out of DeSoto County by Sheriff’s Deputies “for our own safety.” Derek Cunard “met Joe when I was 19 years old on a Saturday afternoon in 1982 at a gay pride carnival at the Double-R Bar in Miami.

A recent picture of Joe McQuay (on the right) along with his lifelong friend, Jim Stegall. Photo courtesy of Cliff O’Neill.

He called me over and said that he had just moved to town from North Carolina and used some cheesy pickup line about me being the cutest boy he had seen since arriving. I sat down by his side at the TWN booth and told me about his work in gay rights advocacy, we sang every dance song they blared over the speakers, and he won a teddy bear for me at the ring toss. He soon became my first boyfriend and we never left each other’s side again. He immediately moved into my small apartment in Coral Gables and Joe made the decision to document every step of our new relationship, each week in his self-named TWN column.” Joe “was a great comedic writer and those columns were hilarious. I remember going out with him and guys would come up to us

and know every detail of our lives as they waited each week to see what kind of trouble we had gotten into. Although Joe and I drifted apart and I eventually moved to Texas for college, what always remained, even after 39 years and his slow decline of mental function and the loss of our wonderful memories was a deep love and respect. His years of AIDS advocacy work in Miami, his battle for gay equality, his hilarious and thoughtful writing about living as a young gay man in the ‘80s is something that Joe will be fondly remembered for.” A Celebration of Life for Joe McQuay will be held later in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Barry University’s “Barry Fund” by visiting their website at barry.edu/giving/.

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

Editorial Cartoon

CONVICTIONS

EDITORIAL CARTOON By Andy Marlette

and

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3.18 . 20 21 •

Guest Column

CONVICTIONS

A GAY MAYOR’S BIZARRE CAPITULATION TO ANTI-GAY CHURCH Wayne Besen

moved to Fort Lauderdale in 1988 at the age of 18. It was the height of the AIDS crisis, with sickness and death ubiquitous and routine. The first three guys I met were all HIV-positive, with two dying before the age of 24. One went blind from an infection, and I watched his hulking father crumpled in anguish, crying like an infant at the foot of his dying son’s hospital bed. It was bad enough that my friends had to deal with a lethal virus. But in this trying time, they also had to contend with community ignorance and bigotry, which was eagerly perpetuated by Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church. While I was comforting my friends, thenCoral Ridge Pastor, the late Rev. D. James Kennedy, was pushing “The AIDS CoverUp?” — a conspiratorial book by author Gene Antonio. Kennedy was parroting the book’s misinformation, such as AIDS could be spread by kissing and mosquito bites. Kennedy’s lies were so egregious, that the then-U.S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop, himself an evangelical, slammed Kennedy in an interview with the magazine Charisma + Christian Life. Koop remarked, “The Christian activity in reference to AIDS of both D. James Kennedy and James Dobson [Focus on the Family] is reprehensible. The first time that Kennedy ever made a statement about AIDS, I saw it on television. It was so terrible, so homophobic, so pure Antonio that I wrote him a letter.” In a Los Angeles Times article, Koop recalled how he tried to educate Kennedy, but was rebuffed. He said he wrote to Kennedy “and told him how far off base he was in his comments about AIDS.” Koop continued, “Kennedy wrote me a letter full of this trash and rubbish out of Antonio’s book. I responded to it thoroughly, paragraph by paragraph. I never heard a word from him.” Dean Trantalis, Fort Lauderdale’s gay mayor, must have amnesia. This week he signed a Fort Lauderdale City Commission proclamation to honor Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church. His actions led Vice Mayor Steve Glassman to remind Trantalis that Coral Ridge is responsible for “bad memories and a lot of hurt and pain … the wounds are still there.” Trantalis responded that, “It’s time to build a future based on love and not hate.” The problem here is that Coral Ridge has traditionally had a different definition of “love.” Case in point, in 1998 the church organized the “Truth in Love” campaign that featured “ex-gays” who claimed they had “prayed away the gay.” They placed full-page ads in

newspapers across the country and even landed a Newsweek magazine cover with the headline “Gay for Life?” The tagline on the ads, “It’s not about hate, it’s about hope.” The campaign collapsed after I photographed one of the “ex-gay” poster boys, John Paulk, inside a gay bar. A second campaign spokesperson, Michael Johnston, resigned after we caught him meeting men for hookups online. Coral Ridge Ministries has yet to apologize for this historic, and failed, attack on the LGBT community. What’s most galling is that Mayor Trantalis set up a false equivalency between Coral Ridge, which is still listed as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center, and LGBT advocates. “It’s time for those who still harbor resentment to let go of it. I know I have, and I know my community has.” No one is opposed to reconciliation. But, that is contingent on respectful and mutual negotiation, not unilateral negation of Coral Ridge’s anti-LGBT history. Incomprehensibly, Trantalis provided the church redemption without a come to Jesus moment. The mayor offered no evidence that the church has changed, and instead assisted in whitewashing their reprehensible record. Indeed, Trantalis misled the community when he said that, “Times have changed and so have their leaders.” But even today, Coral Ridge prominently features sermons by Pastor Voddie Baucham on its website. As recently as 2017, Baucham preached a noxious screed, The Homosexual Agenda in Education, that portrayed LGBT people as scheming to brainwash society. To quote William Faulkner, “The past is never dead. It’s not even past.” Strangely, Trantalis never bothered to inquire whether a teenager who came out as LGBT at Coral Ridge’s school, Westminster Academy, would be sent to conversion therapy. Coral Ridge Pastor Rob Pacienza said, “We look forward to building those bridges.” But it seems more like the pastor sold Trantalis a bridge. Upon receiving his proclamation, Rev. Pacienza offered the banalest of platitudes, “The one thing we can come together

THE PROBLEM HERE IS THAT CORAL RIDGE HAS TRADITIONALLY HAD A DIFFERENT DEFINITION OF “LOVE.”

• 3.18.2021

Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis. Photo via Facebook.

on is we all love this city.” Of course he loves the city. Where else in America could a church with a decades-long resumé of anti-LGBT hate be honored with a proclamation by a gay mayor without first offering a shard of contrition? The onus is now on Dean Trantalis and Rev. Pacienza to show that Coral Ridge is worthy of the honor the mayor bestowed upon them. As of today, we have seen the church celebrated without accountability. I wonder how my friends who passed away from AIDS while hounded to the grave by this church would feel?

Wayne Besen is the Executive Director of Truth Wins Out. He is the author of the upcoming book, “Lies with a Straight Face: Exposing the Cranks, Creeps and Cons Inside the Ex-gay Industry.”

COLUMN LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

CELEBRATING AN ANTI-LGBT CHURCH IS AN OUTRAGE

I am outraged that the Fort Lauderdale City Commission is honoring this church on its 60th anniversary. The pain that this religious institution has inflicted on LGBT youth, adults, and loving allies over the years is incalculable. Furthermore, today the D. James Kennedy Ministries, located at 5555 N. Federal Hwy in Fort Lauderdale, has never been more focused and determined in its campaign to malign and degrade the LGBT community. Therefore, I believe the following addendum to the proclamation is appropriate: And whereas Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church, under the guidance and inspiration of Dr. D. James Kennedy, spent years demeaning the LGBT community with ugly lies, cruelty, and the torture of LGBT youth with so-called conversion or reparative therapy, and having never apologized or atoned for promoting the hatred of gay and trans people leading to all sorts of negative, violent and undoubtedly deadly consequences, do hereby proclaim March 16, 2021, as a slap in the face to the entire LGBT community of Fort Lauderdale, South Florida, and the nation.

Marc Paige Fort Lauderdale, FL

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!  Submit your own letter to Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com 3.18 . 20 21 •

LIFESTYLE BOOKS

REMEMBERING MICHAEL CALLEN David-Elijah Nahmod

ichael Callen (1955-1993) is not as well-remembered today as he deserves to be. But during the peak years of the AIDS crisis, Callen was known the world over not only for his AIDS activism, but also for his music.

Callen was a gifted singer/songwriter “And at some point, I saw a reference to his who made a name for himself both as a solo music. So, I turned to my favorite scholarly artist and as a member of the gay a cappella database, YouTube, and found a number of singing group The Flirtations. But it was his clips of interviews, live performances, etc.” AIDS advocacy for which Callen made his Jones noticed that many of the Callen greatest impact. videos had been posted by a user named Callen loved being gay, and he loved sex, BettyByte, who turned out to be Richard celebrating both unashamedly. In 1983, Dworkin, Callen’s surviving partner. Jones soon after his own AIDS diagnosis, Callen contacted Dworkin, and a friendship ensued. published “How to Have Jones visited Dworkin in Sex in an Epidemic: One New York and was treated Approach,” which he wrote to a huge private archive of in collaboration with his Callen material. Dworkin friend Richard Berkowitz and also pointed Jones toward Dr. Joseph Sonnabend, his the Michael Callen Papers physician. Callen was one of at the New York LGBT the earliest proponents of Community Center safe sex. Ironically, some in National History Archive, the community attacked him and helped Jones contact for his stand. friends, colleagues, The legacy of Callen is now and family members of remembered in “Love Don’t Callen’s. Jones knew he Need a Reason: The Life & had to tell Callen’s story. Music of Michael Callen,” a The author recounts new full-length biography Callen’s difficult by gay historian Matthew J. midwestern childhood, - Matthew J. Jones Jones. The book is a riveting where it was obvious early account of Callen’s 38-year on that he was different. sojourn on Earth and leaves little out. Callen had a tempestuous relationship “Telling LGBTQ stories, especially untold with his parents, though there’s no denying or overlooked stories, motivates everything that they all loved each other. Jones follows I do,” Jones said. “As someone who grew up Callen on his move to New York City, where in the shadow of the AIDS epidemic, whose Callen embraced the promiscuous gay life notions of what it means to be a gay man are of the period while pursuing a career as fundamentally shaped by the epidemic, I’ve a singer. Diagnosed with HIV early in the also been very interested in that history too.” epidemic, Callen became a fierce advocate Jones recalled that when he was a graduate of safe sex. student in Critical and Comparative Studies “Michael loved sex, and even in the at the University of Virginia, he noticed that midst of the emerging epidemic, felt that few music scholars had addressed the AIDS we needed to find ways to have safe, life epidemic. He wondered why and began affirming gay sex,” Jones said. “Though he poking around online. He found, to his also suggested that gay men temper their delight, thousands of songs in a variety of trips to the baths or cruising until more genres that addressed AIDS. information was known about AIDS.” “In footnotes and asides, I kept bumping This stand was not well received by some into this name: Michael Callen,” Jones said. in the gay male community, a community

“MICHAEL LOVED SEX, AND EVEN IN THE MIDST OF THE EMERGING EPIDEMIC, FELT THAT WE NEEDED TO FIND WAYS TO HAVE SAFE, LIFE AFFIRMING GAY SEX.”

• 3.18.2021

Left: “Love Don’t Need A Reason: The Life & Music of Michael Callen” by Matthew J. Jones. Right: Michael Callen. Public domain.

which, at the time, viewed sex as a revolutionary act. Jones does not shy away from describing the attacks that Callen endured from within the community. “This will get me in trouble,” Jones said. “But I really do see that a lot of leftist politics get caught up in these cannibalistic, intracommunity fights. That’s not to say that we shouldn’t argue among ourselves. We have to. We must. It’s part of the process of coalition building, and it’s how marginalized voices within our various subgroups and communities make their concerns known.” Jones continued: “However, there are also examples of how that kind of infighting can stall the engines of progressive movements. So, it’s a very careful balancing act, and it’s also a reminder that none of our communities is a monolith. There’s diversity, dissent, and divergence alongside the things that bind us together. In a sense, I guess that’s also the heart of a pluralistic, democratic society.” But Jones acknowledges that at times the infighting can go too far. He recalls the problems Callen had with Gay Men’s Health Crisis, an AIDS service organization founded in 1982. Early leadership of GMHC went out of their way to squash Callen’s efforts to

educate gay men about AIDS. The book also goes into detail regarding Callen’s musical career. There’s a lengthy section which describes the struggles Callen went through in order to complete “Legacy,” his second and final solo album. Callen was quite ill when he recorded the tracks for “Legacy,” but he was determined to see the project through and soldiered on. Sadly, he did not live to see the release of “Legacy,” which was issued posthumously. The book also documents Callen’s decade-long love affair with Dworkin, who is now the executor of the Michael Callen Estate. Though a bit on the long side, “Love Don’t Need a Reason: The Life and Music of Michael Callen” nonetheless serves as a remembrance not only of an extraordinary activist, but of a time in gay male history that must never be forgotten. So many young LGBT people of today have no idea about what the community went through during the 1980s, when people fought back even as they lay dying. Jones takes readers back to that era and brings it to life. He does so while imbuing an enormous amount of respect not only for Callen, but for all those who loved him.

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LIFESTYLE SHOP WITH PRIDE

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f you’re searching for a unique gift for someone, try a custom or premade needle felted sculpture from Felted Flying Fox. Etsy categorized the shop as a top shop for gifts: “Buyers bought gifts from this shop and gave them five-star reviews!” Lup Sachiko Nakamura, 24, began their small business after realizing that they made too many pieces to keep. “I love making art but I don’t have the space or want to keep it all so I threw my art on Etsy!” they said. Nakamura sells needle felted wool sculptures, stickers, necklaces, keychains, and LGBT wool bottle charms. Their needle felted sculptures range from small colorful birds to Pokémon characters to LGBT-themed animals. Nakamura’s LGBT wool bottle charms are one of their most popular products. The small glass bottle charms are filled with wool that corresponds with the colors of a certain pride flag. “I bought five of these on Black Friday, and I’m in love with them!!! The colors of the felt are so vibrant,” one customer’s Etsy review said. They work with customers to create custom commissions as well. “Most of my commissions are for pride animals!” Nakamura said. Nakamura is asexual and genderless, so creating LGBT-inspired products is important to them. “I would like to do something special again for pride month! Last year I felted a different animal every day with different pride flag colors,” they said. “I’m not sure just yet what I’ll do this year, but I hope it’s just as enjoyable for everyone as last year.”

Lup Sachiko Nakamura. Photo via Facebook.

Nakamura’s RedBubble shop offers several types of pride stickers such as demisexual, bisexual, and pansexual. They also make it a priority to educate about the LGBT community and donate to charities. “I also enjoy using my business to educate about lesser-known LGBTQ+ identities and to donate to causes I believe in,” Nakamura said. While Nakamura loves creating art, they said that the most rewarding part of the business is seeing customer reactions to their products. “It brings me such joy to know that something I made brought a little happiness to someone’s life,” they said.

You can support this LGBT-owned small business by visiting the Felted Flying Fox’s Etsy shop, RedBubble, or Instagram @feltedflyingfox.

• 3.18.2021

LIFESTYLE TAX TALK

ACQUIRING THOSE OLD TAX RETURNS Michael Sullivan

s tax season approaches, you may be in need of past returns to do this year’s taxes. Here is a practical guide on how to do just that. Taxpayers who didn’t save a copy of their prior year’s tax return have a few options to get the information. Individuals should generally keep copies of their tax returns and any documents for at least three years after they file. If a taxpayer doesn’t have this information here’s how they can get it: First of all, always ask the software provider or tax preparer.

ORDER A TAX TRANSCRIPT If a taxpayer can’t get a copy of a prior year return, then they may order a tax transcript from the IRS. These are free and available for the most current tax year after the IRS has processed the return. To protect taxpayers’ identities, this document partially hides personally identifiable information such as names, addresses and Social Security numbers. All financial entries, including the filer’s adjusted gross income, are fully visible. People can get them for the past three years, and they need to allow time for delivery. Here are the three ways to get transcripts: • Online. People can use Get On Line Transcript to view, print or download a copy of all transcript types. Taxpayers must verify their identity using the Secure Assess process. Taxpayers who are unable to register or prefer not to use Get Transcript Online may use By Mail to order a tax return or account transcript type. Taxpayers should allow five to 10 calendar days for delivery.

Photo via Adobe.

•By phone. Taxpayers can call 800908-9946 to request a transcript by phone. Transcripts requested by phone will be mailed to the taxpayer. •By mail. Taxpayers can complete and send either Form 4506-T or Form 4506T-EZ to the IRS to get one by mail. •They use Form 4506-T to request other tax records: tax account transcript, record of account, wage and income and verification of non-filing.

REQUEST A COPY OF A TAX RETURN FROM THE IRS Prior year tax returns are available from the IRS for a fee. Taxpayers can request a copy of a tax return by completing and mailing Form 4506 to the IRS address listed on the form. There’s a $43 fee for each copy and these are available for the current tax year and up to seven years prior. MY KEY TIP IS THIS: As a matter of best practices, keep your tax return secured in the cloud, so you will never have to worry again and ask yourself, ‘Where is last year’s tax return?’ Because, you know, just when you need it, that’s when you won’t find it.

Michael Sullivan is a former IRS Agent & Teaching Instructor, once an ABC news correspondent in Washington, now affiliated with R3 Accounting, Mr. Sullivan has also contributed to the Bloomberg News and Wall Street Journal.

3.18 . 20 21 •

LIFESTYLE FOOD

SMARTER THAN THE AVERAGE BEAR Rick Karlin

marter than the average bear may have been the catchphrase for the cartoon character Yogi Bear, who always managed to outwit the park ranger, but it could also describe the Bears of South Florida. The group was founded to “provide a safe and welcoming space for the bear community of South Florida to socialize and engage in fundraising activities to benefit the local LGBTQ community.” While it no doubt offers the former, most of us know the group because of its extensive fundraising for community organizations Its latest endeavor is a 128-page full-color cookbook full of delicious recipes submitted by local bears. The book is $25 and that price includes shipping via USPS within the continental United States. All proceeds from the sale of the cookbooks will fund the Bears of South Florida’s community activities and fundraising and is available at bosfl.org/cookbook. The book is filled with yummy recipes sure to satisfy Yogi or any bear. Here are a few select recipes, and I’m even including a recipe from the vegan and vegetarian section to prove that not all bears are carnivores.

EASY CROCKPOT BBQ David Kimble’s recipe proves that tasty barbecue doesn’t require fancy equipment or a lot of work.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 to 3 pounds pork butt • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tablespoon paprika • 1 minced onion • 1 8-ounce can of root beer • Salt and pepper to taste • 1 bottle barbecue sauce

DIRECTIONS

• Create the rub with minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. • Massage rub onto the pork butt and place it in the crockpot. • Add the minced onion and can of root beer. • Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Leave the meat in but drain the juices from the crockpot. • Using two forks shred the meat. • Add your favorite barbecue sauce and allow to simmer on low until the sauce is warm.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP WITH QUICK CASHEW “CREAM” INGREDIENTS • 5 ½ cups butternut squash, cubed • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend • ¼ teaspoon sea salt

• 3.18.2021

• 2/3 cup raw cashews • 2 ½ cups filtered or spring water plus more as needed • ½ cup unsweetened coconut milk beverage or non-dairy milk of your choice • 4-6 basil leaves for garnish

DIRECTIONS

• Preheat oven to 400° F. • Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. • Put the cubed squash, olive oil, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl and toss gently until thoroughly coated. • Arrange the squash in a single layer on the prepared pan, bake for 50 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the squash is soft and slightly golden. • Put the pan on a wire rack and sprinkle squash with sea salt. • Let the squash cool for 20 to 30 minutes. • While the squash is cooling, put the cashews and a half cup water in a blender and process until smooth and creamy. • Transfer the cashew cream to a small bowl, leaving about two heaping tablespoons in the blender. • Add the cooled squash, coconut milk, and two cups of water to the cashew cream in the blender. • Process until smooth adding more water about 1/4 cup at a time as needed to achieve the desired consistency. • Pour the soup into a medium-size saucepan cover and cook over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring often, until heated through.

Photo credit: The Bears of South Florida. • To serve, ladle the soup into bowls using a small spoon swirl about one tablespoon of the cashew cream onto the top of each serving in a pretty pattern garnish with a basil leaf and serve piping hot.

CAT BOX CAKE Kevin Daft says “I held on to this recipe for over 30 years after a friend from Louisiana made it for me. The cake recently provided a priceless impact at a friend’s 65th birthday party. Ideal for the cat-loving friend.”

INGREDIENTS

• 1-2 boxes cake mix, your choice or flavor canned icing of choice • 1-2 packages of Pecan Sandies or similar cookie for the “litter” • Reese’s peanut butter cups for use in decorations

HUNGRY FOR MORE? 

• 1 new litter box, wash, leave label intact on the outside • 1 new litter scoop, washed

DIRECTIONS

• Bake the cake according to the package instructions in a rectangular pan that is approximately the size of the litter box (you may need two cakes if the litter box is large). • Let the cake cool, then put it in the litter box. • Spread the frosting on the cake. • Coarsely crushed the cookies and spread them evenly on top of the cake (make sure the litter covers the cake and goes to the edge of the litter box). • The turds are made from Reese’s peanut butter cups (crumbled one into your hand and mash it into a cylindrical shape roll it in your hands and drop it in the litter. • Serve with the litter scoop.

VISIT SFGN.COM/FOOD!

Rick Karlin is SFGN’s food editor. Visit SFGN.com/Food to read his previous reviews. Have a culinary tip to share? Email Rick at RickKarlinFL@gmail.com.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT Photo via Adobe.

AHF CENSURES ‘VACCINE NATIONALISM’ Calls Upon World Trade Organization to Waive Patents

News Release From AHF

he early days of the HIV/AIDS epidemic “This current health crisis is a glaring forced the world to clear numerous reminder of the 1980s and ‘90s — everyone hurdles before people living with was afraid of HIV/AIDS, and when treatment HIV could access affordable, lifesaving was finally available, making it affordable antiretroviral medications (ARVs). and accessible was a lengthy and grueling Fast forward to the age of COVID-19 — process,” said AHF Director of Global to avoid those same obstacles, the World Advocacy and Partnerships Joey Terrill. Trade Organization should clear the “During this unprecedented time, the path for countries to invoke flexibilities world greatly needs the WTO to utilize the to temporarily lift intellectual property flexibilities it has on-hand. Countries must protections on COVID-19 vaccines. be united against our common enemy in One mechanism that improved ARV access COVID-19, not doubling down on vaccine in the past — and could be nationalism,” Terrill added. used today — is the WTO’s While the world has dealt with 2001 Doha Declaration. It big pharma greed for decades, in a stressed the need for the pandemic, vaccine manufacturers Trade-Related Aspects of should be compelled to share Intellectual Property Rights intellectual property related to (TRIPs Agreement) to be a part vaccine development, especially of increased international considering significant initial actions to address public research and development health problems. have been funded by public Flexibilities authorized institutions. under TRIPs are what Sharing IP allows generic ultimately allowed countries pharmaceutical companies to to manufacture generic help expand global access to - Joey Terrill medicines during public affordable COVID-19 vaccines. AHF DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL ADVOCACY AND health crises. But after calls We invite you to watch the PARTNERSHIPS from South Africa and the eye-opening documentary, World Health Organization’s “DRUG$: The Price We Pay,” to Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus to temporarily which is narrated by Academy Award waive patents, the 164-member WTO seems Winner J.K. Simmons and dives deep into stuck on taking that necessary step to the pharmaceutical industry to shed light on expand COVID-19 vaccine access. the soaring prices of medicines. Of the 225 million vaccinations that have While it primarily focuses on the U.S., the been administered globally to date, the vast issues it covers run parallel to the struggle majority have occurred in wealthy, western to ensure equitable access to COVID-19 countries. vaccines.

“This current health crisis is a glaring reminder of the 1980s and ‘90s.”

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Former Fort Lauderdale resident Robby Kendall has resurrected a gay-themed soap opera on Zoom. The story was inspired by his experiences nearly 20 years ago. Credit: Sweet Nothing Productions.

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Nearly two decades ago, then-Fort Lauderdale resident Robby Kendall dreamed up a fun gay-themed soap opera that found its way to the ArtServe building stage for multiple performances over two years. Kendall heard the call of California and left for the West Coast, but Fort Lauderdale remained his inspiration. Recently, Kendall resurrected “Victoria Place,” a nod to the Victoria Park neighborhood, as Zoom theater, with three episodes now available for viewing on-demand. Many of the characters are familiar LGBT archetypes and campy hijinks abound as the residents’ lives and loves collide. And the current adjustments for pandemic social distancing don’t hamper the drama. Kendall is currently developing an animated “queer motion” version of the series later this year.

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SIZING UP HOLLYWOOD’S LEADING MEN

Afternoon Drive... local and LIVE.

Mr. Man, the internet fan site devoted to celebrity nudity, scoped the dimensions of this year’s “Growers and Showers in Hollywood” list with an inch-by-inch countdown of the biggest and smallest members of film and television’s most-wanted stars, according to a press release. Ben Affleck, who has starred in six full-frontal scenes on-screen, tops Mr. Man’s rankings, followed by Michael Fassbender and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II from HBO’s “Watchmen.” Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Omar Epps, Viggo Mortensen, Antonio Banderas, Colin Farrell and Justin Theroux round out the top 10 biggest bulges, followed by Robert DeNiro, Harvey Keitel, Alexander Skarsgård, Daniel Craig and Richard Gere. In the “More of a Grower than a Shower” category, Tom Hardy, Tom Cruise, Jude Law, Leonardo DiCaprio and Terrence Howard are comparatively on the smaller side, choosing to trade on their considerable charm, talent and good looks. Find the full list at MrMan.com.

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• 3.18.2021

Superstar drag performers Electra and Varla Jean Merman are back in the spotlight at the Wick Theatre and Costume Museum, March 25 – 27. The duo will be performing “Queen’s Canteen,” an “original evening of parodies and panty mimes,” on the Boca Raton theater’s main stage. Begin the evening with prix fixe dinner in the Tavern at the Wick, a recreation of the historic Tavern on the Green in Central, with food equally as memorable, before heading into the theater for Electra’s incredible impersonations and Varla Jean’s edgy skits. Dinner is $100 and tickets are $55 at TheWick.org.

A&E FESTIVALS

FOOD FESTIVAL BACK WITH BIG NAMES, DRAG BRUNCH J.W. Arnold

espite the COVID-19 pandemic, the South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF) will be back with its most popular signature event, along with a drag brunch featuring actor Neil Patrick Harris and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” winner Bianca Del Rio, organizers announced this week. The festival will be the first in the region to resume operations after the pandemic forced the cancellation or postponement of Pride, music, film and food festivals a year ago. Typically held in late February, SOBEWFF was postponed to May 20 – 23, 2021 and a number of public health precautions will be put in place. Most events will be held in outdoor venues and capacities will be reduced to 50%. Maskwearing will be required when not eating or drinking. Many of the larger dining events will be broken into sessions with frequent sanitization of the venues taking place in between. Social-distancing will be enforced Drag superstar Bianca Del Rio will host the South at all times. Beach Wine & Food Festival drag brunch on The biggest change, according to protocols Sunday, May 23 in Miami Beach. Credit: Denise developed by the Florida International Malone. University Healthcare Committee on COVID-19 Health & Safety Protocols: “Expect the party, while Del Rio and local drag to provide proof and/or attestation of a legend Athena Dion will be the emcees for negative PCR COVID-19 test dated no more drag performances produced by R House. than 72 hours prior to the event(s) you will Miami chefs will prepare a variety of creative brunch bites and the $150 per be attending or alternatively person ticket also includes an proof of completed COVID-19 MOST EVENTS open bar. vaccination.” Guests without Other highlights of the documentation can expect to WILL BE HELD IN schedule announced this week receive a screening and rapid OUTDOOR VENUES include the festival’s 20th test onsite. FIU’s Chaplin anniversary celebration hosted School of Hospitality & AND CAPACITIES by Martha Stewart on Thursday, Tourism Management is the WILL BE REDUCED May 20; the Burger Bash hosted beneficiary of the festival. TO 50%. MASKby Food Network chef Bobby Health precautions aren’t Flay on Friday, May 21; and likely to deter LGBT foodies WEARING WILL BE the Grand Tasting Village on who have made the festival’s REQUIRED WHEN Saturday and Sunday, May 22 drag brunch a welcome NOT EATING OR – 23. addition to the schedule. After The celebrity line-up is two years in Fort Lauderdale, DRINKING. heavy on local talent, but the drag brunch is moving to also includes recording artist the North Beach Bandshell in Miami Beach and will be held on Sunday, Pharrell Williams and chefs Robert Irvine, Andrew Zimmern and Rocco DiSpirito. Giada May 23 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Harris and his husband, actor, chef and De Laurentiis will be feted at a $600 a ticket cookbook author David Burtka, will host tribute dinner on Saturday, May 22.

Tickets for the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, May 20 – 23, go on sale Monday, March 22 at SOBEWFF.org. 3.18 . 20 21 •

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• 3.18.2021

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PEN PAL WANTED - Young gay male looking for a penpal. Life is not always perfect and I am searching for friends as we move into the new year. Email Ryan: thabirdman1@aol.com for mailing address and information.

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• 3.18.2021

finance HAVE $10K IN DEBT? - Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Personal Loans. Be Debt Free in 24-48 Months. Call NATIONAL DEBT RELIEF! Know Your Options. Get a FREE debt relief quote: Call 1-844-518-6521

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HAIR REMOVAL - Professional male esthetician providing hair removal services for men and women. I specialize in male body grooming and Brazilian waxing. I can either trim, shave, wax or sugar. I have a private studio where I also do specialty facials which include back and buttocks facials. Come treat yourself for a relaxing facial and get silky smooth skin at the same time. Check out my website for more info. www.waxiitaxi.com or you can book online at WaxiiTaxi.Booksy.com IG: @waxiitaxi Facebook.com/waxiitaxi. Kurt Ruback: 561-956-0626

HELP WANTED - Appliance Outlet is looking for a box truck driver for appliance delivery routes in the Broward County, FL area. Appliances to be delivered & installed. Please call 954-565-1055 and ask for Tim.

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

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FEATURE PETS

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ALFRED

Six-year-old Alfred (ID 640503) needs someone to love. He was found abandoned at the Humane Society in the parking lot, so we don’t know about his past. He is a sweet fellow, with a long, black fur coat, so make sure you have time to brush him so he is always looking his best. Alfred is a bigger kitty and weighs 14-and-ahalf pounds.

Appointments will now be required to visit the adoption areas at the Humane Society of Broward County on weekends and select days. Visit www.humanebroward.com to learn more or call 954-989-3977 ext. 6. Appointments are not necessary for the vaccine clinic which is open Monday — Friday 9 AM — 4:30 PM credit cards only. The banners rotate so click on the one that says COVID-19 update adoptions and essential services update and scroll down a little bit. There you will find an application for adoption and other pertinent information. Complete the application (even if you have adopted before) and submit it. Adoptions are being done by appointment only now. For more information call 954-989-3977 ext. 6 FACE MASKS ARE REQUIRED WHEN COMING TO THE SHELTER.

LGBTGEQIAP+ Research Study Are you LGBTGEQIAP+ and 18 years of age or older?

To participate in the study, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

To participate in the study, please click the following link or scan the QR code below: https://fau.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_88KCrD9JjTjctqm

If you have any questions about this study, please contact investigators: Kelly Emelianchik-Key, Ph.D., at kemelian@fau.edu and/or Adriana Labarta at alabarta2018@fau.edu.

3.18 . 20 21 •

Wine

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Please join us as we pair amazing wines with delicious food prepared by our award-winning Executive Chef, Mark Gullusci, and the JKV Catering Department.

Wednesday, March 24, 2021 | 4-5:30 PM

in the Welcome and Innovation Center at John Knox Village Learn why John Knox Village is one of the most prestigious award-winning Life-Plan Retirement Communities in the country. Nibble on signature gourmet treats with an array of national and international wine labels and learn about all that JKV has to offer. Space is limited. Please RSVP.

To RSVP, call 954-628-3768

Physical distancing protocols and face coverings mandatory.

651 SW 6th Street Pompano Beach, FL 33060

web JohnKnoxVillage.com JohnKnoxVillage

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 have resided the community prior to these requirements going into effect. Additionally, our ability to verify whether these requirements have been met is limited to the information we receive from various credit and screening services used.

SFGN 03/18/21 V12iss11

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