SFGN 04/08/20 V11iss15 by South Florida Gay News

local name global coverage april 8, 2020 vol. 11 // issue 15

ONE TEAM PINK SUB AND FABSCOUT TEAM UP TO GIVE BACK PAGE 16

SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS

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NEWS HIGHLIGHT

Washington Blade courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association.

LGBT PEOPLE URGED TO ‘GET COUNTED’ IN CENSUS Lou Chibbaro Jr.

“THE CENSUS HELPS LGBTQ COMMUNITIES ACCESS BILLIONS IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR SOCIAL PROGRAMS, HELPS US BUILD POLITICAL POWER AND HELPS US ENFORCE CIVIL RIGHTS PROTECTIONS.”

Norm.Kent@sfgn.com

CEO • Pier Angelo Guidugli piero@sfgn.com

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

Jesse Monteagudo

Correspondents

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

Contributing Columnists

The staff of the National LGBTQ Task Force. Photo via Facebook.

questionnaire explicitly asks couples living together to define their relationship to their partners in a new way — as “same-sex” or “opposite sex” spouses or partners. The 2000 and 2010 Census counted samesex couples indirectly through questions about gender and relationships. But the newly worded question in 2020 is expected to provide a more accurate count of the number of same-sex couples in the United States. To the disappointment of LGBT advocacy organizations, Census officials under the Trump administration declined to include in the 2020 questionnaire questions asking about a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity so that non-coupled LGBT people could be counted. “While the Census doesn’t ask questions about sexual orientation or gender identity, it’s still vital for us to be counted,” Maury said in the Task Force statement. “Like other marginalized communities, LGBTQ people have historically been undercounted on the Census,” Maury said. “The ‘Queer the Census’ campaign

Associated Press • 4 . 8 . 2020

Publisher • Norm Kent

Senior Features Correspondents

Brian McNaught • Terri Schlichenmeyer Dana Rudolph • Ric Reily

is working to change that, so that our community can access the things it needs most — dollars, democracy and justice.” Nick Morrow, a spokesperson for the national LGBT advocacy organization Human Rights Campaign, said HRC shares the Task Force’s view on the importance of the Census for LGBTQ people. “It’s vitally important for all of us to be counted in the Census,” he said. “Critical funding for programs that support our communities, and LGBTQ people specifically, are determined by the Census.” For the 2020 Census the U.S. Census Bureau has or is in the process of mailing a letter to all U.S. households informing the resident or residents that they are required under U.S. law to complete a Census questionnaire. The letter urges residents to complete the questionnaire online at my2020census.gov. The Task Force says details of its events and activities related to its campaign to promote LGBT participation in the Census can be obtained at www.queerthecensus.org.

Cover: Dan Michael volunteering with the Pink Sub. Photo credit: Carina Mask.

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

Art Director • Brendon Lies Artwork@sfgn.com Digital Content Director • Justin Musial Webmaster@sfgn.com Arts/Entertainment Editor • J.W. Arnold JW@prdconline.com Social Media Manager • Paul Leary leary.paul@gmail.com Food/Travel Editor • Rick Karlin Gazette News Editor • Sallie James HIV Editor • Sean McShee Senior Photographer • J.R. Davis JRDavis12000@hotmail.com

he D.C.-based National LGBTQ Task Force has announced it will celebrate Census Day on April 1 by “mobilizing LGBT people across the country to get counted in the 2020 Census.” The Task Force is part of a coalition of national civil rights and progressive advocacy groups that launched the “Queer the Census” campaign last year to encourage members of marginalized communities to make sure they are counted in this year’s Census. “Starting today, the National LGBTQ Task Force will host a series of educational webinars, host office hours online where people can find answers to their questions, and work with volunteers to make thousands of phone calls to LGBT people to make sure they know how to fill out the Census,” the group said in a March 27 statement. “The Census helps LGBTQ communities access billions in federal funding for social programs, helps us build political power and helps us enforce civil rights protections,” Meghan Maury, the Task Force’s policy director, said in the statement. In a development that some LGBT activists view as a positive change, the 2020 Census

- Meghan Maury

@SFGN

April 8, 2020 • Volume 11 • Issue 15

Editorial

Washington Blade

TASK FORCE POLICY DIRECTOR

SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Associate Photographers Carina Mask • Steven Shires

Sales & Marketing For ad placement in SFGN, contact 954-530-4970 Sales Manager • Justin Wyse Justin@sfgn.com Senior Advertising Associate • Edwin Neimann Edwin@sfgn.com Distribution Services • Rocky Bowell Bernard Wisneski Sales Consultant • Charles A. Reid National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping Printing by Sun Coast Press

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

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

NEWS LOCAL Wilton Drive. Photo credit: Carina Mask.

31 CASES OF COVID-19 IN WILTON MANORS SO FAR Jason Parsley

ccording to the Florida Department of social distance,” she said. “These actions Health at least 31 people have tested will help the Island City flatten the curve.” positive for the coronavirus in Wilton In order to help mitigate the impact of the Manors as of Sunday. That’s up from 23 a shutdown Carson said the city has cancelled week ago and 10 two weeks ago. code enforcement fine accruals; parking fees As of Sunday, 1,886 have tested positive in in metered lots have been suspended, and Broward County up from 1,129 a week ago. online convenience fees have been waived. Looking at the four individual She also said there will be no zip codes that include some utility shut offs. “MOST ARE portion of Wilton Manors 33305 In comparison to Wilton has 14 cases; 33306 has five; Manors there have been 442 RESPONSIBLY 33311 has 137 and 33334 has cases in Fort Lauderdale (up WEARING 34. All of the zip codes include from 290), and 29 in Oakland PROTECTIVE MASKS portions of neighboring cities. Park (up from 21). Meanwhile “During this crisis, the there are 12,350 (up from 5,473) AND/OR GLOVES City is continuing to provide confirmed cases in Florida, AND KEEPING essential services, and most more than 350,000 in the U.S. APPROPRIATE City staff members are (up from 150,000), and more working remotely. Police are than 1.3 million globally (up SOCIAL DISTANCE.” patrolling the neighborhoods, from 740,000). So far there - Julie Carson and the Community Services have been 221 deaths in Florida WILTON MANORS CITY Department is facilitating (up from 63), 10,300 in the COMMISSIONER necessary building permits U.S. (up from 2,805) and more and property inspections than 72,600 globally (up from electronically, where possible,” Wilton 36,000). Manors commissioner Julie Carson said. Florida is now under a stay-at-home order “Residents are hunkered down for the next and in Broward only essential businesses are phase of this pandemic, leaving homes only allowed to operate. to walk the dog or make a trip to the grocery Carson also encouraged those that have or pharmacy.” the ability to donate money to give to the Carson said she believes the city’s GoFundMe page at GoFundMe.com/f/weresidents are taking the pandemic seriously. are-wilton set up to assist the employees “Most are responsibly wearing protective of Wilton Manors businesses. So far it has masks and/or gloves and keeping appropriate raised $3,400.

Dr. Cunningham and his office is available for your needs during this crisis. Please call or email at OPdental@aol.com

4 . 8 . 20 20 •

NEWS LOCAL

NEWS STATE

WINTER PARTY VOLUNTEER DIES FROM CORONAVIRUS

George Castrataro. Photo via George Castrataro, Facebook.

Jason Parsley

FLORIDA SUPREME COURT SUSPENDS PROMINENT LOCAL GAY LAWYER George Castrataro has been held in contempt of court

SFGN Staff

eorge Castrataro has been held in contempt of court by the Florida Supreme Court, and suspended from the practice of law. Castrataro’s suspension not only bars him from taking new cases immediately, it also says it will “remain in effect until further order of this court.” Castrataro told SFGN that while he cannot comment on any of the specifics of the situation, “we intend to be proactive and are working to provide the requested details.” He added that “We are optimistic the matter can be resolved!” Regardless of his optimism, the state’s highest court gave him 30 days “to close out his practice and protect the interests of existing clients.” Castrataro’s duty is now to find another lawyer in good standing to assume responsibility for all his cases, in order to protect the interests of his present clients. He is barred from taking new ones. Besides holding him in contempt of

court the Supreme Court also suspended him from the further practice of law, and ordered him to pay $1,250 in fines. Castrataro has until May 6 to appeal the decision. The disciplinary sanctions being imposed originated from at least two separate complaints filed against Castrataro by former clients. They remain confidential at this time. Castrataro’s Fort Lauderdale based law practice has been focused on bankruptcy and estate planning. He has distinguished himself in the LGBT community by serving on the board of directors of numerous charitable agencies, including Care Resource. He also launched an unsuccessful bid for city commission in Fort Lauderdale two years ago. A New York native, prior to opening his law practice in 2006, he had previously worked extensively in the public health field with the Florida Department of Health and the American Red Cross.

CASTRATARO IS CURRENTLY BARRED FROM TAKING ON NEW CASES.

• 4 . 8 . 2020

on Rich, 65, a long-time volunteer for the Winter Party Festival, died from complications of the coronavirus over the weekend. “Ron was a familiar face to the guests who attended the Task Force Gala, Winter Party Festival and our Fort Lauderdale house parties over the past five years as his big smile and warmth had him mostly serving on our hospitality team,” a Facebook post from the Task Force read. “He will be missed. We extend our condolences to his family and friends.” Rich was an avid volunteer, who donated his time to other organizations as well, such as the OUTshine Film Festival. “He was always there when we needed him, always wanted to help in any way possible, and didn’t worry about getting dirty to help out,” said Victor Gimenez, Executive Director of OUT-shine. “Ron didn’t wait to be asked what to do but always took the initiative and asked how he could help.” According to Gimenez, Rich’s illness and death happened quickly. “I was shocked when I found out he passed away so quickly after catching COVID-19. Ron was admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with double pneumonia, tested for COVID-19, three days later was informed he had it when the results came back, and two days later he passed away,” Gimenez said. The Winter Party is an annual event hosted by the National LGBTQ Task Force that takes place every year in Miami Beach. This year’s festival took place about a week before many similar type events started announcing postponements and cancellations. Rich is the second gay man in South Florida SFGN has written about who attended the Winter Party, and then died from the coronavirus. A third gay man, a member of

“HE WAS ALWAYS THERE WHEN WE NEEDED HIM, ALWAYS WANTED TO HELP IN ANY WAY POSSIBLE.” - Victor Gimenez

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF OUTSHINE

Ron Rich. Photo via Facebook.

the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, also recently died from the coronavirus. Vim Kruger, who considered Rich his best friend, is devastated. He said Rich had a big heart and was always willing to give back. “He was just one of the kindest people I knew. Personally, he was just always willing to help out with whatever I needed,” Kruger said. “He went above and beyond and never asked for anything in return.” Kruger said Rich dearly loved his four children, Marc, Becky, Heather and Evan. “He was very close to them,” Kruger said. “Not a day went by without him talking about them.” Kruger said he believed Rich to be healthy and didn’t know of any underlying conditions he may have had. According to the Centers for Disease Control older individuals, and those with other chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease and heart disease are more likely to be hospitalized or die. “He will be so missed. In my life there will be a big space,” Kruger said. “But I am sure a lot of people will feel like that. He was liked by everybody.” Kruger said there wasn’t anything Rich wasn’t willing to try. “He was interested in everything. No matter what you wanted to do he was willing to do it with you,” he said. Recently Kruger formed a social group with Rich for gay men in their 60s to discuss topics like aging and sexuality. Kruger plans on restarting the group once the threat of the coronavirus has passed.

NEWS LOCAL A past Stonewall Pride in Wilton Manors. Photo via the City of Wilton Manors, Facebook.

STONEWALL FESTIVAL IN JUNE CANCELLED Sallie James

ast year about 40,000 revelers packed the streets of Wilton Manors to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. This year the streets will be quiet thanks to the spread of the coronavirus. The popular Stonewall Pride Parade and Street celebration, planned for June, was postponed this week as Florida coronavirus cases continue to climb and social distancing guidelines were extended through midApril. If rescheduled in December, it would be one day instead of two. “We don’t know what is going on because it is hard to give a firm date,” said event organizer Jeffrey Sterling, CEO of the Wilton Manors Entertainment Group. “Pride of Americas and South Beach Pride also got postponed. We don’t know how this is going to affect Hialeah Pride.” The Stonewall Riots helped launched the modern LGBT rights movement. If social distancing restrictions are relaxed by the end of the year, other popular events could also be rescheduled. But too many events which share the same sponsors scheduled for the last quarter of the year could be problematic: the pot of sponsorship funds is likely to be greatly reduced due to all the required business closures. “Are we going to have less vendors? Probably. Everyone is going to have less money,” Sterling said. “It would be a lot different if we didn’t share the same vendors and sponsors. That is why I’m assuming we are going to take a huge smack. Assume the worst and design something that fits that model.We think attendance will be OK but we just think vendor-sponsor donations will be down.” Wilton Manors Commissioner Paul Rolli

ASK US ABOUT: said the huge event brings an infusion of cash to the bars and restaurants in the city, and hopefully entices visitors to return. The long-term shutdown, however, leaves a lot up in question. “It’s no surprise. I just think it’s a natural following that Stonewall be postponed since the shutdown has been extended,” Rolli said. “One thing I am concerned about is where do we go from here? I expect property values will go down. We will have to look at where we can cut.” A 2017 study showed that most of Stonewall’s festival-goers come from Broward, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach and Monroe counties, all areas with high numbers of cases of the coronavirus. About 5,000 people come from other areas, Sterling said. The festival costs about $500,000 to run, with approximately half coming from inkind donations and half coming from cash, Sterling said. The Broward Cultural Division recently awarded the festival a $40,000 grant for 2020 and also for 2021, but where other funds will come from is unclear because of the economic uncertainty. The Wilton Manors Entertainment Group handles about 40 events a year for Wilton Manors, and so far, all events through April have been canceled, with more cancellations anticipated. Monthly cancelled events include Art Walk, the third Saturday of every month; Vibes on the Drive, the second Wednesday of every month; and Pride Skate Nights, the third Wednesday of every month, at Xtreme Action Park. Other events include the Wilton Manors Business Association’s health fair and Taste of the Island.

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4 . 8 . 20 20 •

NEWS NATIONAL

Washington Blade courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association.

FDA EASES BAN ON GAY BLOOD DONATIONS AMID CORONAVIRUS CRISIS Chris Johnson

SFGN file photo.

Washington Blade

aced with tremendous pressure during the coronavirus crisis to lift its policy barring gay men from donating blood, the Food & Drug Administration announced on late last week it has eased the restrictions.

While the previous policy, established in 2015, barred men who have had sex with men in the past 12 months from making a donation, the new policy shortens the deferral period, requiring abstinence for only three months. The FDA indicated it would make a change in a notice to stakeholders on Thursday, saying the decision was based on “evaluation of the totality of the scientific evidence available.” “To help address this critical need and increase the number of donations, the FDA is announcing today that based on recently completed studies and epidemiological data, we have concluded that the current policies regarding the eligibility of certain donors can be modified without compromising the safety of the blood supply,” the notice says. In addition changing the recommended deferral period for men who have had sex with men from 12 months to three months, the FDA informs stakeholders of other changes. Among them are easing ban on donations for women who have had sex with men who, in turn, previously have had sex with a man. For these women, the deferral period has similarly been changed from 12 months to three months. Further, the new policy eases the 12 month deferral for individuals with recent tattoos and piercings to three months, and eases from an indefinite ban to a three month ban donations from people who have a past history of sex in exchange for money, or injection drug use. Other changes are implemented easing policy related to blood donors who have travelled to malaria-endemic areas, such as countries in Africa, or to European countries where the donor faced potential risk of

transmission of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease or Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease. White House Deputy Secretary Judd Deere said via email to the Washington Blade the new policy is safe and consistent with President Trump’s vision for blood donations. “President Trump wants those who wish to donate blood and for those who accept the donations to be able to do so safely,” Deere said. “Today’s decision is driven by health and science. The White House supports the Commissioner on this action.” The FDA issued the notice to stakeholders at the same time it published on its website a 17-page official memo outlining the changes, declaring they were made to address the shortage in the blood supply amid the COVID-19 crisis and therefore would not wait for a public comment period. “As a result of this public health emergency, there is a significant shortage in the supply of blood in the United States, which early implementation of the recommendations in this guidance may help to address [even though the recommendations in this guidance are broadly applicable beyond the COVID-19 public health emergency],” the memo says. The three-month deferral period is consistent with recommendations from the American Red Cross, which before the coronavirus had called on the FDA to shorten the deferral period. The American Red Cross, in an organizational statement, said the new policy changes, including the three-month deferral period for gay men, will “potentially allow more individuals to donate and help

THE NEW POLICY SHORTENS THE DEFERRAL PERIOD, REQUIRING ABSTINENCE FOR ONLY THREE MONTHS.

• 4 . 8 . 2020

ensure blood collection organizations across the country continue to meet patient needs throughout this pandemic and beyond.” In 1983, the FDA implemented a lifetime ban on blood donations from gay and bisexual men amid fears in the early days of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. During the Obama administration in 2015, that policy was eased to a ban on donations from men who’ve had sex with men in the past year — but restrictions nonetheless remained in place. The 2015 deferral policy had angered LGBT advocates for some time, but indignation became piqued during the blood supply during the coronavirus as U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams made an urgent plea for donations. Among the reasons critics called the previous outdated is the belief testing procedures would catch any HIV in the blood supply regardless of the donor. Scott Schoettes, counsel and the HIV Project Director at Lambda Legal, said in a conference call hosted by the Human Rights Campaign, however, that isn’t true. “People believe that it catches all new cases of HIV or new cases of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, other blood borne infections,” Schoettes said. “That is not the case. There are still a window period during which that testing would not uncover a newly acquired infection.” Schoettes said Lambda believes the deferral

period could be shortened more than three months based on current science, but for the time being “it is important that people continue to abide by the rules that are place until we can convince the people determining these policies to change the policies so that is really risk based and/or to shorten that deferral period.” Prior to the FDA’s change, the LGBTQ media watchdog GLAAD was engaged in a weeks long campaign calling on the agency to lift the gay blood ban. A petition launched by GLAAD as of Thursday had more than 20,000 signatures. Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD, said in a statement the FDA changes are good progress and worth celebrating, but more needs to change. “This is a victory for all of us who raised our collective voices against the discriminatory ban on gay and bisexual men donating blood,” Ellis said. “We will keep fighting until the deferral period is lifted and gay and bi men, and all LGBTQ people, are treated equal to others.” In recent weeks, numerous members of Congress had called on FDA to change the policy in several letters to the agency. Among them were Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), who led 17 senators in renewing the call for an end to the policy. Reps. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) also signed a joint letter to the FDA.

NEWS LOCAL

DAILY TRACKING OF COVID-19 IN SOUTH FLORIDA Sean McShee Daily Increase in Total Known Covid-19 Cases in ThreeinSouth Daily Increase Total Florida Known Counties Covid-19 Cases MarSouth 31 through Apr 6 in Three Florida Counties Mar 31 through Apr 6

Daily Increase in TotalKnown Known Covid-19 Cases Cases Daily Increase in Total Covid-19 in Three South Florida Counties in Three South Florida Counties 4,146 Mar 31 through Apr 6 3,890 4,146

Rate of Increase in Total Known Covid 19 cases Mar 31 through Apr 6 from 3/31 to 4/6 Rate of Increase in Total Known Covid 19 cases from 3/31 to 4/6 Palm Beach = 1.0 3,364 Broward = 0.7 in Total Known Covid 19 cases Rate Beach of Increase Palm = 1.0 Miami Dade =1.2 from 3/31 4/6 3,364 Broward =to0.7 2,886 Miami Dade =1.2 Palm Beach = 1.0

Photo via PxFuel.

FACEBOOK GROUP LAUNCHED TO HELP THOSE IN NEED IN WILTON MANORS

2,886

Palm Beach = 1.0 2,123 1,219 Broward = 0.7 1,219 Miami Dade =1.2

4,146

Sallie James

eed help walking your dog, picking up prescriptions or doing the grocery shopping because you’re not feeling

well? A new Facebook group that targets the LGBT community in Wilton Manors has been created to direct help to those who need it during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Wilton Manors COVID-19 Mutual Aid” went live on March 30 to help people who are sick in isolation and need assistance, said site administrator Omar Sanabria, a former Wilton Manors resident who created the group. “The idea was to really involve the community. Luckily we have not been engulfed by the coronavirus like New York City or Miami. This is a great time to get the word out there and really network so we can just help people,” Sanabria said. “We are hoping to increase the members.” The Facebook group had 30 members shortly after its launch on March 30 and continues to grow. Volunteers who can provide help do not have to reside in Wilton Manors. The Wilton Manors COVID-19 Mutual Aid Facebook group is described as a “group where people in Wilton Manors can ask for help if they are sick or in isolation. Where people who are well and willing to help can offer. Because we can all help each other.” Here’s how it works: A person in need goes to the group and basically states what type of assistance they

551 1,219

1,348 616

551

616

3/31 2,202

1,219

are seeking. Then Sanabria, the group’s 551 moderator, finds someone in the group who can help. “Things like shopping for others, cooking food, food delivery, walking a dog 3/31 or simply just a friendly phone call,” Sanabria explained. “When people are isolated we are going to experience a lot of depression and anxiety.” The site also includes a printable PDF that people can pass out in their neighborhoods, with detailed information about the Facebook group, how to join and what sort of networking assistance it can offer. The PDF includes a list of coronavirus symptoms, suggestions on when to call your doctor, when to isolate yourself, and tips on how to avoid spreading the coronavirus. One resident posted, “Love this! I’m able to help walk dogs, pick up prescriptions or help with grocery shopping for those in need.” Sanabria said that’s what the site is all about. “We have two purposes: For people that need help and for people who are willing to support those who are asking for help,” Sanabria said. “I will make sure we see through the requests and that someone in the community is helping that person.” He added, “You are basically matching the needs to local residents with the support of the community. This is not about asking for monetary donations. This is about connecting people who can help with people in need.”

3/31 3/31

1,348

4/1

1,765

1,598 858

1,481 737

2,886

1,886

954

1,000

954

858

2,075 2,075

2,075

1,082

1,000 1,000

954

858

737

1,082 1,082

4/1

4/2

4/3

4/4

4/5

4/6

4/1 4/1

4/2 4/2

4/3

4/4

4/5 1,886 4/6

4/6

1,481

4/3

Palm Beach 1,598 Broward

4/4

1,765

4/5

2,075

Miami-Dade

Palm Beach Miami-Dade Palm BeachBroward Broward Miami-Dade

Source: Florida Dept. of954 Health. 858

737

616

3,364

1,886 1,886

1,765

1,598

1,481

616

551

2,123

4,146 3,890 1,765

1,598

1,481

1,348

4,671

3,890

3,364

2,202

2,202 1,348

4,671

3,890

= 0.7Known Covid 19 cases Rate of Increase Broward in Total 2,202 Dade =1.2 2,123 from 3/31 to 4/6 Miami 2,886 2,123

4,671 4,671

4/2

Palm Beach

Your smile 4/3 4/4 should leave a great Broward Miami-Dade impression!

1,082

1,000

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NEWS LOCAL

GAY BSO DEPUTY DIES FROM CORONAVIRUS

Pictured below: Shannon Bennett. Photo via BSO.

Jason Parsley

deputy with the Broward Sheriff’s Department died from the coronavirus, the BSO announced Saturday. Deputy Shannon Bennett, 39, worked for BSO for more than 12 years.

A deputy with the Broward Sheriff’s Department died from the coronavirus, the BSO announced Saturday. Deputy Shannon Bennett, 39, worked for BSO for more than 12 years. “I ask that you keep Shannon’s family members in your prayers, but keep Shannon within your heart. His legacy will be carried on in our performance,” BSO Sheriff Gregory Tony said in a message on Facebook. Bennett died Friday night. According to media outlets Tony said at a press conference Saturday morning, “This is a reminder not only to this community but to us as first responders that we’re on the front lines with this, and that we’re not immune to it, we can fall victim to it as well.” Bennett had been a school resource officer at Deerfield Beach Elementary

School since January 2019. According to Tony, Bennett called out sick March 23 and checked into a hospital the next day. He tested positive for COVID-19 on March 27 and died before midnight Friday, Tony said. Bennett was among 21 BSO employees who have tested positive for COVID-19 as of Saturday morning, most of them isolated at home, Tony said. Bennett was an active member of the local LGBT softball league where he played on the BENNETT WAS AMONG 21 BSO team Shockers. Bennett was to marry his EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE TESTED POSITIVE partner Jonathan Frey in FOR COVID-19 AS OF SATURDAY December. MORNING, MOST OF THEM ISOLATED AT Frey posted a goodbye love letter to Bennet on HOME, TONY SAID. Facebook. 

“I will never have the words to describe how much you meant to me. You were my best friend, my soulmate, my lover, my everything. You would have gone to the end of the world and back for me — it was written all over your face in the way you looked at me. You’d wipe the tears from my face during movies. You’d give me our 20-second hugs because you knew how much it made me feel better after a hard day even though you’d roll your eyes and pretend to pull away. You were afraid to cook because you couldn’t see the pink in meats so instead you’d always put the dishes away after dinner. You introduced me to amazing people and I gained so, so, so many different, wonderful families. You made me laugh when I couldn’t contain the tears and you made me cry with your spattered bouts of romanticism and adoration for me. You’d give me my own personal drag performances. You were a man that set the bar above all else. I fell in love with you the first time I saw you seven years ago. I didn’t know it then, but our trains were to meet at the right time and it was fate. God may have another plan for you, and although I am angry and I don’t understand it, I honor it. You were an angel that touched so many and I am so blessed and honored to have become your fiancé. I will eternally be proud of the person who you were and who you allowed me to see. It soothes my soul you’re with your father, without pain, and I will one day be reunited with you. My last text to you was at 10:16 p.m. which was about 10 minutes prior to the call. I hope you knew I was with you in those last moments. I’m so deeply sorry I was not able to hold your hand as you crossed over… My heart has been forever torn into two. Please take the other half with you. All my love, energy, and soul. I will miss you dearly.”

Sadly SFGN has also learned of the passing of LGBT icon Henrietta Robinson. Read the story on SFGN.com 8

• 4 . 8 . 2020

Tim Martin, former Chairman of the South Florida Amateur Athletic Association, remembered Bennett fondly. "Shannon was a man who put family first, friends second, and himself last. For example, as a deputy officer for BSO, Shannon thought it was more important to be on duty during Stonewall Pride than to be among the revelers,” he said. “This is a tremendous loss for the gay softball community as well, where he was a player for a number of years. “We will all miss him.” After Bennett’s death The Broward Sheriff’s Advisory Council announced they were launching the “COVID-19 Fund” in his memory to support the families of Broward County first responders, who die from the coronavirus. “We are all heartbroken by the tragic passing of one of our dedicated deputies. This COVID-19 crisis is touching all of us and is sure to claim even more victims,” said

NEWS LOCAL BSAC Chairman Edward Collins. “We want to make sure that Deputy Bennett’s death was not in vain and that we have sufficient funds to provide essential financial support to families of these selfless community servants who risk their lives every day to protect us.” The BSAC is a nonprofit membership organization that raises funds to support first responders, and has been giving money to families of fallen officers, who have died in the line of duty, since 1985. As long as their agency says they died in the line of duty the families of first responders will be eligible for the “COVID-19 fund.” One-hundred percent of each donation will go to this new fund. “Every gift, no matter how small, will enable us to support the families of so many individuals who continue to serve on the frontlines in our community,” BSAC Executive Director Nancy Vaniman in a press release. Visit SheriffsAdvisoryCouncil.com/ covid-19-fund/ to donate. Last year as Pride Month ended the BSO shared Bennett’s coming out story on Facebook.

Pictured below: Sheriff Gregory Tony making a statement on the death of Shannon Bennett. Photo via BSO.

“Twelve amazing years ago, I began my career with BSO in the Department of Detention and Community Control. I am Deputy Shannon Bennett and I am an out and proud gay Law Enforcement Officer who serves the citizens of Broward County. I’ve been out since I was 18 years old. When I decided to pursue a career in law enforcement at the age of 26, the anxiety of feeling I would be discriminated against due to my sexuality was extremely overwhelming. Additionally, I felt I would have to disguise my true character to be accepted. My brother, who joined agency five years prior, also with the Department of Detention, played a significant role supporting me through the process. He told me as long as I did my job, I would be respected and to not to worry about what people thought of me. This resonated with me daily. The first year I kept a low profile which was hard because I am a very social guy. I went to work and accomplished my assignments. After a while, people began to see my work ethic and wanted to get to know Shannon the person. I was befriended by a Deputy who I consider a very good friend to this day. He approached me one night on shift and stated, “You know I know and it’s OK. A lot of us know and it’s OK.” I immediately knew what he meant and from there I felt I was a part of the team and was able to be a better deputy. I wanted to further my career in Law Enforcement so I enrolled in the cross over academy from detention to law enforcement. After successful completion, I was transferred to the Department of Law Enforcement (Road patrol). It was here I realized that I had made the best decision, but again the anxiety of people knowing I was gay set in again. It was while working road patrol I met an openly gay deputy named Paul Auerbach. Through his friendship and guidance he helped me realize most of our co-workers did not care about my sexual orientation, they just wanted the mission of the job to be completed. Through my work ethic and loyalty I was welcomed with open arms and have made a second family with the men and women here at the Broward County Sheriff's Office. Since transferring to road patrol I have been afforded the opportunity to use my platform as an openly gay Deputy to help my LGBTQ community bridge the gap with law enforcement. I have for the past 7 years worked and walked in the Stonewall Parade. I take pride each year in keeping my community safe and making them feel accepted so they can celebrate with pride. What I want you to know about me is that I am a human being, I am sensitive, I have feelings, and I love the same way you love. As someone who prides themselves on being able to live their truth, my sexuality doesn’t define me as a person. When you see me in uniform I am there to protect and serve and will continue to keep all walks of life safe from harm. Happy Pride!”

4 . 8 . 20 20 •

NEWS NATIONAL

STATES WON’T COLLECT LGBT DATA ON COVID-19 Chris Johnson

SFGN File Photo.

Washington Blade

mid the coronavirus crisis, state health officials responsible for gathering data on COVID-19 are declining to collect and report whether or not patients identify as LGBT — a practice that angers LGBT advocates who say those answers could yield important information to combat the disease.

The lack of data, advocates say, will essentially blind the fast spread of the virus and the extraordinary shortcomings the public to the coronavirus’ impact on LGBT people — a in the United States’ response to the pandemic.” population that may be particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 “Unfortunately, many of our pre-existing public health — as the epidemic continues to rise and health officials surveillance systems did not yet incorporate basic demographic warn the death toll in the United States will hit its peak in the data about LGBTQ people, and many health care institutions coming weeks. haven’t yet implemented this data collection in their patient An estimated 100,000 to 240,000 Americans may die as a record systems either,” Tobin said. “That’s inexcusable, but it’s result of the coronavirus epidemic, U.S. government health also not likely we’ll be able to correct those deficiencies in the advisers said this week. middle of a fast-moving global pandemic.” The deputy director of the National LGBT Cancer Network, Jurisdictions other than D.C. either didn’t respond to the who goes by the name Scout and has a Ph.D. in socio-medical Blade’s request to comment, or affirmed they didn’t collect sciences from Columbia University, said the lack of data on data on whether coronavirus patients identify as LGBT. the coronavirus’ impact on LGBT people reflects the absence In Michigan, where Detroit has become a new epicenter of LGBT data collection in medical surveys writ large. for the coronavirus epidemic, a spokesperson for the state “The common phenomenon of not collecting LGBTQ health department of health confirmed the LGBT status of patients surveillance data hurts us in so many ways. Now it will hurt isn’t asked by health officials. us by masking the impact of COVID-19 on our communities,” In New York, a spokesperson said the NY Department of Scout said. “Considering an estimated 3.3 million of us use Health is “not tracking COVID-19 cases by sexuality,” then tobacco products, and therefore have a higher risk of negative when asked why that was the case referred the Blade to recent outcomes if we get coronavirus, not collecting LGBTQ+ status remarks from Gov. Andrew Cuomo on COVID-19, who recently in health surveillance data is horrible. We will mourn our said “This virus does not discriminate.” losses but never be able to measure them.” Privacy issues around asking COVID-19 patients whether The Blade reached out to several states where they identify as LGBT were cited by one the confirmed cases of coronavirus infection are state contacted by the Blade about LGBT at their highest and as of this week surpassed demographics on the epidemic. 5,000 cases, according to data from the Centers The departments of health for New Jersey, for Disease Control & Prevention. Additionally, Maryland and Virginia didn’t respond to the the Blade sought LGBT demographic information Blade’s request to comment, and the California on the COVID-19 impact from jurisdictions local Department of Health referred the Blade to a to the D.C. region and states that have had greater page on its website showing the information incident rates of COVID-19 cases. state officials record for COVID-19. (It doesn’t The only jurisdiction to report having collected include whether patients identify as LGBT.) data on whether COVID-19 patients identify as Emphasizing changing forms to include LGBTQ was D.C., where the department of health LGBT questions amid a pandemic may not be affirmed Tuesday to the Blade that process was realistic, Tobin cited several examples for why underway. they would have been useful, including finding - Scout “DC Health is collecting information about out whether LGBT people have particular health NATIONAL LGBT CANCER NETWORK LGBTQ+ status of coronavirus patients,” said vulnerabilities and the right way to tailor public Alison Reeves, a D.C. Department of Health health messages. spokesperson. “However, that data is incomplete and will not “The health care system runs on data,” Tobin said. be made public at this time.” “Collecting information in patient records helps promote Harper Jean Tobin, director of policy for the National Center honest communication between patients and staff to make for Transgender Equality, said any reporting on COVID-19’s sure their health needs and concerns are addressed. It helps impact on LGBT people would likely be an undercount “due to us determine whether certain populations are seeking or

“WE WILL MOURN OUR LOSSES BUT NEVER BE ABLE TO MEASURE THEM.”

• 4 . 8.2020

receiving specific services at different rates, or having different outcomes.” The lack of data collection on whether coronavirus patients identify as LGBT appears to be the result of a general practice as well as the official CDC form specific for COVID-19 data collection, which doesn’t include questions seeking to identify whether a patient is LGBT. The CDC form seeks to obtain information on patients who tested positive for COVID-19 based on age, sex and ethnicity, but no where does it ask their sexual orientation. For the query on sex, the form allows states to record the patient’s answer as “male,” “female,” “none,” or “other.” Although those options provide some flexibility to patients who are non-binary, it doesn’t explicitly seek to ascertain whether a COVID-19 patient is transgender. The Centers for Disease Control didn’t respond to multiple requests from the Blade on whether it has information on COVID-19’s impact on LGBT people, nor why its data collection survey doesn’t ask patients if they identify as LGBT. States and the CDC aren’t collecting data on whether COVID-19 patients identify as LGBT despite a recent joint letter declaring LGBT people would be vulnerable to the epidemic. More than 150 advocates warned LGBT people would be disproportionately affected by the coronavirus because they smoke and suffer from cancer at higher rates; have high reported rates of discrimination in the health care system; and are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS.

PA L M B E A C H

news

ONE VOTE DECIDES HAVERHILL RACE WITH TWO OUT MEN

CONVICTIONS

Editorial Cartoon

EDITORIAL CARTOON By Mike Luckovich

Jason Parsley

ONE VOTE.

That’s all it took for Ray Caranci, a gay man, to unseat Daniel Sohn, a bisexual man, in a race for Haverhill’s Town Council. After all the votes were counted from the March 17 election Caranci led Sohn by one vote 153-152. But because it was so close there was an automatic recount, which turned up the same result later that week. At that point the race hinged on one potential uncounted ballot from overseas. As long as it was received by March 27 it would have been counted. Alas, it never came. Sohn, 29, quickly conceded the election last Friday. “While this was not the outcome many were hoping for, I take great pride in the democratic process and want to assure the people and organizations that supported my campaign that there are still many paths forward for me and more opportunities to represent you and the issues you care about,” Sohn wrote in a Facebook post. “It is with great humility that I concede my re-election campaign [...] and congratulate Mr. Caranci on his election.” In his Facebook post concession, Sohn said he would be stepping back from elected public service while taking pride in his two years on the council. “I can honestly say that ‘The People’ were the only special interest group I represented. Each vote I made on the dais was representative of the people that elected me,” he said. “You can take that to the bank.” Caranci, 59, works for the City of West

Daniel Sohn. Photo via Daniel Sohn, Facebook.

Ray Caranci. Photo via Ray Caranci, Facebok.

Palm Beach as a landscape planner and has lived in the town for 15 years. He’s been with his husband for 31 years. Some of the issues Caranci wants to focus on while in office include safety; common sense code enforcement; neighborhood stability; responsible budgeting; long-term town planning; better information availability and bringing back town events. “If there is one thing that I have found through the years is that we want dedicated invested home owners to lead our town government so we can feel secure they are looking out for our interests, and can trust them to do their best in making thoughtful and experienced decisions,” Caranci wrote on his election Facebook page. Sohn recently made history when he married his partner in the Florida Capitol building in Tallahassee, the first time a same-sex marriage had been performed there. According to Sohn his time on the council hasn’t always been smooth sailing. “I held my colleague’s feet to the fire and they didn’t like that. I forced them to become more active than they have been. I’ve challenged their way of thinking,” Sohn told SFGN before the election. “I’m not a rubber stamp politician. I’m not a ‘yes’ man. I want to continue to be that lightning rod for change.” Haverhill is a small municipality in Palm Beach County located west of West Palm Beach near the Palm Beach International Airport. There are just 2,000 residents living in the town.

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Publisher's Editorial

CONVICTIONS

FOX NEWS IS FIXED NEWS HOW THEIR NEGLIGENCE IS COSTING AMERICAN LIVES

Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

he Fox News team is a ray of sunshine in these troubling times. Their anchors, staff and reporters light up a room like a 15-watt bulb. My grandmother used to teach me that “half a truth is a whole lie.” Each hour and every day, Fox News proves that it is the Fixed News, delivering whole lies instead of hard truths. In one report last Sunday, a Fox news reported that ‘8,600 Americans had recovered from the corona virus’ They said nothing about the lives lost. Astounding If the guys who ran this station were captains of the Titanic, they would go on the sound system to tell the passengers ‘we are making a brief stop to pick up ice.’ The duplicity and deception poisoning the Fox Network is almost reminiscent of a North Korean news network praising the holiness of their leader. They have become America’s state network. Ironically, even while becoming the President’s toy box, he still criticizes any one of them if they fail to tow his line. He measures them not by integrity and independence, but allegiance and loyalty. It’s frightening. When a witness goes to take the stand in a courtroom, they put their hand on the Bible and are asked to take an oath. They are asked a simple question: “Do you promise to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?” Our courts and our constitution work because we hope the witnesses are honest. If you swear to an oath and lie, it’s perjury. The only reason some Fox hosts are not so charged is because they don’t swear to an oath before they take the air. Fox News instead swears to a Neanderthal

corporate industrialist with a toxic political agenda. We already know that Donald Trump can’t handle the truth. Rome could be burning, and he will tell you that nobody plays the fiddle like he does. Too many Fox News hosts do not question the president. They coronate him. That is not the duty of a newspaperman. You are not supposed to be supplicant to authority and appease it. Your duty is to question it. It is simply not okay to report that thousands of Americans have recovered from the corona virus without simultaneously stating that thousands more are dying from it. There are hospitals in New York City where refrigerated trucks are lining up to carry bodies away. You don’t cover that up. You cover it. Finally, someone is attempting to hold Fox News accountable for its misleading representations. There is a Washington state based public interest group that has filed a suit against them for deception. The lawsuit claims Fox is repetitively airing false information that is endangering the public safety, and thereby negligently placing listeners and citizens of the state at risk. The League for Transparency and Ethics in Washington state is seeking an injunction to prevent Fox News from “interfering with reasonable and necessary measures to contain the virus by publishing false and deceptive comments.” Ironically, it has been Mr. Trump himself who has spent the last three years demanding that the courts make it easier to sue journalists and newspapers, calling for judges to “open up the libel laws.” From the outset, Fox news hosts mocked the coronavirus as a hoax. They treated the potential pandemic as laughable. While

THE VIRUS THAT FOX AND ITS FRIENDS SAY WAS SO MEANINGLESS HAS NOW CLAIMED 76,500 LIVES GLOBALLY, AND OVER 11,000 IN THE UNITED STATES TO DATE.

• 4 . 8.2020

suing them is no easy task either, a court in Washington will have a legitimate shot at holding them accountable for their fake news. How is that for irony? What a double whammy would it be if the first defendant with a verdict entered against them for publishing Fake News was Fox News? Why not? It can happen. If a group of jurors determined a station was interested more in ratings than life, who knows what kind of judgment they will render? Isn’t it about time Fox News paid the piper for being the president’s pimp? This is not just Norm Kent ranting. Last month, 74 journalism professors and journalists signed an open letter, addressed to Rupert Murdoch, censuring the Fox news network for its dangerous and deceptive coverage of the corona virus crisis. The plaintiff’s lawyers want a federal jurist to enjoin them from telling bald-faced lies on the air. They stand a chance of winning. The state of Washington has a Consumer Protection Act, which prohibits deceptive practices “in the conduct of any trade or commerce.” The legal argument the plaintiffs are making is novel, but not unique. Think about all those tobacco companies getting sued for telling you cigarette smoking was just fine; that you have nothing to worry about. A few billion dollars’ worth of judgments later, cigarette manufacturers were taught a lesson. There are warning labels on every carton of cigarettes you buy. Seat belts in every car, too. The virus that Fox and its friends say was

so meaningless has now claimed 76,500 lives globally, and over 11,000 in the United States to date. The lies on Fox news air hourly. I don’t care how much their hosts smile. It is journalistically abominable. One last thing, which probably won’t surprise you. Las month, Donald Trump became the first sitting president ever to file a suit against the New York Times. At the start of this pandemic, he has filed a suit against the paper, claiming that it did not cover one of his rallies in Virginia fairly. This is what the man cares about- himself, his whole self, and nothing but himself. My legal opinion is that Trump’s suit is going nowhere. He won’t be able to meet the constitutional threshold that the paper acted with malice when publishing their report. I won’t mislead you. That may protect Fox news, too. The standard for proving a newspaper committed libel is you must show that the paper knowingly presenting false information with a reckless disregard for the truth. I happen to think Fox does that every day. Millions of Americans think not. Sadly, they are fixated by the fixed news that is the Fox Network. The debate on public issues must be uninhibited, wide-open and robust, not bowing to power. The Trump presidency and his assault on the press poses a threat to our First Amendment freedoms. Our government is here to serve us, not the other way around. That is why 240 years ago we fought a revolution against a king. We must now do so again.

Screening for

COVID-19

FloridaHealth.gov/COVID-19 • Florida Department of Health

Are you experiencing symptoms?

Symptoms may appear in 2–14 days after exposure to the virus. 1.4

FEVER

COUGH

SHORTNESS OF BREATH

Have you returned from international travel or been on a cruise within the last 14 days?

Have you been around someone diagnosed with COVID-19?

If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, call your healthcare provider and the Florida Department of Health in Broward County at (954) 412-7300 before visiting any healthcare facility.

Guidance  Self monitor for fever, cough, or other

respiratory symptoms for 14 days.  Avoid contact with sick people.  Delay any additional travel plans until no longer sick.

 Wash hands often with soap and water for

at least 20 seconds.  Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash.

Florida Health Office of Communications 03/10/20

4 . 8 . 20 20 •

Search - St Nicholas Episcopal Church

& Videos and Live Stream Sundays

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

Sunday services temporarily suspended.

Bingo & Thrift Shop

SPIRITUALITY

SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM

Dark for the short term.

LISTINGS

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

The Criminal Defense law CenTer of souTh floriDa

The Practice Of Law Is No Practice. Four DecADes oF experience. A LiFetime oF trust.

CONGREGATION ETZ CHAIM 2038 N. Dixie Hwy (Pride Center Building B), Wilton Manors 954-564-9232 - etzchaimflorida.org RabbiNoahKitty@etzchaimflorida.org Friday Night Shabbat Service 8p.m. HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 2917 NE 6th Avenue Wilton Manors 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH 1955 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale (954) 564-7673 - christlutheranfl.org pastordeborah@christlutheranfl.org Worship: Sunday 10:00am

954.763.1900

Russell Cormican

Attorney at Law 12 SE 7th St Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Norman Elliott Kent

Attorney at Law 2520 N. Dixie Hwy Wilton Manors, FL 33305

www.NormKent.com 14

â&#x20AC;¢ 4 . 8.2020

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

FOUNTAIN OF LOVE MINISTRIES 5481 FL-7, Tamarac, FL 33319 954-486-5959 fountainofloveonline.org Pastor Dallas Walker-Green Worship: Sunday Mornings at 11:00 am OPEN HEART MEDITATION Saturdays 3:30 - 5 p.m. Pride Center - Room #200 www.heartofthemystery.com ST. NICHOLAS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1111 E. Sample Road, Pompano Beach 954-942-5887 - stnicholasfl.org office@stnicholasfl.org Sundays 8:00AM & 10:30AM (9:30AM only from Memorial Day through Labor Day) FIRST CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 1415 North K Street, Lake Worth 561-582-6691 - fcclw.org office@lakeworthchurch.org Service Time: Sunday 10:30AM UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST FORT LAUDERDALE 2501 NE 30th Street, Fort Lauderdale (954)563-4271 - uccftl.org revpatrickrogers@gmail.com Service Times: Thursdays 10:30AM (Elliot Hall) & Sundays 10:30AM (Sanctuary)

FAITH & PRIDE SPIRITUALITY

THE FIRST

EASTER

Join us on Facebook Live for our Shabbat service Friday night at 8pm Please join us virtually until we can be together again, holding hands and singing our beautiful prayers

Rev. Mark Andrew Jones St. Nicholas Episcopal Church

Congregation Etz Chaim

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

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

his Holy Week and Easter are like nothing we’ve ever experienced. Services suspended and gatherings of 10 or more prohibited. Normally, we seek to liturgically participate in Jesus’ journey to the Cross and beyond; but this year’s prolonged Lenten journey is shrouded in a sense of real and palpable anxiety, maybe even fear: fear of a world — and a virus — that we cannot control; a world that can become dark and deadly. But don’t despair. With a little care and compassion we’ll get by. We’ll not only survive, we’ll thrive. First, let’s use this existential Lenten experience to become closer with God. Reflect on what Jesus must have felt, particularly in those final days when He faced death amidst dark forces. Let’s reflect on the reality of His sacrifice for us. Let’s also offer up what we are feeling (the good, the bad, and the ugly). Don’t think it inappropriate. That’s the value of praying the Psalms. Every human emotion (even the desire for revenge — see, e.g., Psalm 137) are expressed in the Psalms. Be yourself before God; for God prizes authenticity. Let’s deepen a real, personal, and honest relationship with Jesus Christ so that our relationship with God might be all the more grace-filled and instructive for our lives. This year we won’t be together for Easter after 40 days of Lent. We might even need to shelter-in-place for 40 more days — the equivalent in Jesus’ day of saying, “a long

time.” But don’t despair. With a little care and compassion we’ll get by. We’ll not only survive, we’ll thrive. Pray and realize that science and medical knowledge (as well as all that is derived from the gift of reason) is part of the answer to our prayers; so take prudent precautions. Listen to the advice of public health and medical experts. After all, Jesus walked among humanity as one who healed and analogized His ministry to that of the practice of medicine. Also, maintain a sense of humor and continue to live a life of gratitude, for we will get by; we will not only survive, we’ll thrive. We know how the story ends. God in Christ is always with us, and God’s love always triumphs in the end. Think back to the first Easter. There were no crowded churches back then. The disciples had deserted Jesus at the Cross. Still, Easter came. Love triumphed over death. By virtue of our baptism we are the Resurrection People; we share in Christ’s victory. We share in the fact that love trumps death. We’re in this together. If we think of one another, if we prudently act to protect one another, if we really love our neighbor and are willing to sacrifice convenience to shelter-in-place, then lives will be saved and the miracle of Easter celebrated all the more; because love will have beaten death again. Be well, my friends, and may God continue to bless you and your ministries.

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

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

954-633-2987

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

Due to COV-19, Christ Lutheran Church Sunday Service is available at www.christlutheranfl.org

Follow Christ Lutheran Church on Facebook

A LITTLE BIT OF FAITH AND

PRIDE

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

SEE MORE ONLINE AT SFGN.COM/TABLE/NEWS/RELIGION 4 . 8 . 20 20 •

NEWS LOCAL

PINK SUB AND FABSCOUT TEAM UP TO FEED SERVICE WORKERS Jason Parsley Photos by Carina Mask

Howard Andrew (left), Dawn Holloway (center) and Dan Michael.

ink Sub and FabScout Entertainment teamed up last week to start giving away prepared meals to service workers who have recently lost their job.

“It was a truly heartwarming thing to see people that needed food, get food,” said Howard Andrew, owner of FabScout. “I think more people need to reach out and help, and realize that Wilton Manors and the gay community is a community and people need to watch out for other people and not just themselves.” The next two giveaways will be at 6 p.m. in front of 2201 Wilton Drive (The Zig Zag Building) and in front of the Manor on Friday. Next week it will take place Tuesday and Friday, locations to be announced. During this time of crisis Dawn Holloway wanted to help in some way so she turned to the thing she knows best — feeding people. “One thing I can do is feed people like I’ve always done,” said Holloway, the owner of Pink Sub. “We are preparing meals for anyone that is in the service industry. They have waited on all of us. Put up with our shit. It’s time to take care of them. This was not their choice to not be able to work.” Holloway said some of her suppliers have donated vegetables, fruits and salad to the cause. “The community has always supported me and I wanna cook for them,” Holloway continued. “We are not asking for anything in return other than please come get a meal and enjoy.” The first giveaway on Thursday was so successful they immediately planned a second one Saturday that Oakland Park commissioner Jane Bolin sponsored.

Call Howard Andrew at 954-290-6831 to volunteer or donate. 16

• 4 . 8.2020

TO SEE MANY MORE PHOTOS, VISIT SFGN ON FACEBOOK. One of many guests receives a free meal.

Dawn Holloway offers a cookie.

CONVICTIONS

Off The Wall

MY 92-YEAR-OLD MOTHER AND COVID-19

A MESSAGE FROM SFGN

During these difficult times, think positive thoughts.

Pier Angelo

YOU ARE NOT STUCK AT HOME. YOU ARE SAFE AT HOME. Photo via Pixabay.

y 92-year-old mother in Italy lives alone and has been on lockdown for six weeks unable to see her other two sons, grandchildren and friends. She is very autonomous and sharp. Follows the news closely and tries to get as much information about the state of the U.S. since she is worried about me. When this whole crisis started she was the one who was trying to give me strength. The first thing she said was: “I lived through WW2 for four years, this kind of living is very familiar to me with a few differences: a) we had very little food, b) we knew when the bombs were coming because an alarm would go off and we would run to the bunkers or shelters, this virus is like invisible bombs, c) after the raids were over we would go back home hoping it was still standing and we could even socialize a bit. I survived, you will too.” We talk on the phone two or three times a week and every time she comes up with something that makes me wonder. Here are some of the things she has said to me in the last several weeks. It is almost a sort of thinking out loud, a stream of consciousness: 1. The virus left Wuhan and spread worldwide but it did not reach Shanghai nor Beijing, can you explain that? And... it doesn’t seem to have afflicted China’s allies North Korea or Russia much, strange. 2. China’s stock market did not collapse the same way it did in Europe

and the US, I am sure they are buying very cheap stocks everywhere.

Visit SFGN.com and stay up to date on health alerts, event schedules, and everything you need to know in our community.

3. Their economy is now booming with mass production of any type of product and the infected world is forced to buy from them, no competition, they are profiting from this invisible war. They are laughing at your President’s tariffs, something doesn’t add up son, and by the way: Bats have been around since the beginning of time, why did this kind of disease show up now? Could it be biological warfare? And there are more observations that I will not print because they might sound preposterous but sometimes they keep me up at night swirling in my brain in search of an answer that doesn’t come. I am not predisposed to paranoia, my main concern is the incompetence of our government, the lies, the denial, the total disregard for human suffering, the lack of empathy, pettiness, inefficiency. It is a despicable spectacle that makes a mockery of the presidency. It is almost criminal intent. The only thing we will be number 1 at is going to be the number of deaths by the time this is over. Going back to my mother the last thing she said yesterday before hanging up was: “Complacency cripples. Hubris kills. And blindness without guidance usually leads one into the nearest wall if not hurtling down a flight of stairs.” Stay home, stay safe, do your part and don’t expect help from the Insouciant in Chief. 4 . 8 . 20 20 •

A&E FILM

POPULAR GAY WEB SERIES, ‘EASTSIDERS’

DRAWS TO A CLOSE David-Elijah Nahmod

ince 2012 the dark comedy drama taken a paycheck because I wanted that money “EastSiders” has delighted audiences to go towards making the show the best it can and critics alike. A true labor of love, be.” Williamson explained why he drew the show “EastSiders’” first two episodes premiered on to a close, despite its popularity with viewers. YouTube, which was followed by the series “I believe good stories have endings, being picked up by Logo TV’s website. People and I didn’t want to constantly imperil the loved it — “EastSiders” went on to receive characters’ relationships just to keep the story several Daytime Emmy Award nominations. going,” he said. Thanks to the accolades and its growing The actor who plays Thom will be familiar popularity, “EastSiders” is now streaming to viewers of daytime TV. His portrayer, worldwide on Netflix, where the fourth and Van Hansis, played Luke Snyder on the now final season premiered in December 2019. cancelled soap opera “As the World Turns.” The streaming giant carries the show’s entire While Luke certainly wasn’t the first gay four season run. character on afternoon television, he was the Openly gay Kit Williamson not only created first gay character to become part of what soap EastSiders, he also writes and directs it, and is fans refer to as “supercouples” — Luke was one of the stars. involved in a romantic relationship with Noah “I wanted to depict queer characters (Jake Silbermann). with flaws and complexities,” Hansis described how he sees Williamson said. “Back in DRUNKEN Thom. 2012 there was very little “Over the course of the series, representation, and the OUTBURSTS FOLLOW we see Thom, like all the central representation we did get wasn’t AS WILLIAMSON’S characters, stumble haphazardly very substantive. I’ve drawn INSIGHTFUL SCRIPTS towards maturity,” Hansis said. inspiration from my life, my “Thom is a writer and is Cal’s friends and my neighborhood, FOLLOW THEIR boyfriend. While there is a lot but it isn’t an autobiographical ATTEMPTS TO FIX of love between them, there show.” THE SOMETIMES SAD, are also a ton of issues. It’s not “EastSiders” tells the story of SOMETIMES FUNNY Cal (Williamson) and Thom (Van that he’s not committed to Cal, Hansis), a gay couple in the trendy but I think he sort of has code MESS THEY’VE MADE Los Angeles neighborhood of of commitment, and often gets OF THEIR LIVES. Silver Lake. Cal and Thom are dazzled by all the shiny things struggling with the complexities around him. I think throughout of love and infidelity—Thom has a propensity the four seasons we see them intermittently for cheating. grow together and apart and see how they can Drunken outbursts follow as Williamson’s form a relationship that grows on their terms.” insightful scripts follow their attempts to fix Hansis also spoke of the differences between the sometimes sad, sometimes funny mess Thom and Luke. they’ve made of their lives. “Luke is about a decade younger than Williamson said that it was the support of Thom,” he said. “He was around 21 or so when the show’s fanbase which kept bringing it back World Turns ended, so I think he’s a lot more for additional seasons. immature than Thom is. Luke also has more of “Over the years we’ve raised nearly half a a sense of entitlement and is very headstrong million dollars through crowdfunding to make and knows what he wants. Thom has no clue the show,” said Williamson. “It’s incredible to what he wants and he tends to be very reactive have the show backed by the fans. I’ve never to whatever is right in front of him.”

• 4 . 8.2020

Photo via Eastsiders, Facebook.

Hansis noted that part of “EastSider’s” success comes from the onscreen chemistry he shares with Williamson. “Kit’s a really wonderful person to work opposite and he is such a great director,” he said. “He lets his actors do their thing and fully trusts them. We have just gotten really comfortable with each other and there’s a level of trust there that makes it easy. Honestly, you can’t build chemistry — either it’s there or not. It’s up to the Gods.” Also in the cast is John Halbach, real life husband of Williamson. Halbach plays Ian, an allegedly straight guy whose been known to fool around with guys now and again. Halbach spoke of the challenges of working with and being directed by his own husband. “The challenge of making the show is that we literally take it home with us every day,” he said. “Thom and Cal’s apartment is our apartment, so we wake up on set every day, and every day for the last seven years we’ve both done something either to create or promote the show. It’s a passion project and we love it, but it’s also work with a capital W. Sometimes it would’ve been nice to take a break or have more resources.”

Halbach added that he felt it’s all been worth it, and that he was proud of what he and Williamson had accomplished. “I hope people can see some of themselves in the stories we’ve told,” Halbach said. “I hope it can serve as sort of a time capsule for life over the last seven years. Since the show started the world has changed a lot, including marriage equality becoming legalized, the arrival of PrEP, and the election of Donald Trump. As the real world changed, so did the world for our characters.” Halbach says that the ending of “EastSiders” is bittersweet, and that he hopes they gave the characters and storylines satisfying endings. “I’ll mostly miss everyone getting together to celebrate a new season,” he said. “But we’re all friends, so we’ll still see each other.” Williamson cannot speak highly enough of Netflix for picking up the show. “Being on Netflix brought the show to a worldwide audience,” he said. “We’re subtitled in over 30 languages now, and I get messages all the time from countries where it’s illegal or dangerous to be gay saying the show made them feel less alone. That’s been the most rewarding thing.”

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