4/27/16 V7i17 by South Florida Gay News

local name global coverage April 27, 2016 vol. 7 // issue 17

s o u t h

f l o r i d a

g a y

n e w s

Out of closet,

out of home D OCUM E NTARY O N HO M E L E S S L G B T GAY EDITOR MURDERED • Page 3

MISS VICKY PASSES • PagE 5

SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS

PagES 16, 22, 26

TRUTH WINS OUT • PagE 12

SOFLAGAYNEWS

SFGN.COM

the oPening Line

Comments from sFgn’s

online outlets

Compiled by John McDonald

Photos: Facebook.

utah DeCLaRes PoRn a PubLiC heaLth haZaRD Jayson Ross Jay –

Hey, I’m a fellow Christian and I watch porn. To be perfectly blunt, straightforward, and to the point, I do not even consider it to be cheating. To hell with Utah.

tom menninger –

Their patrons are the biggest hypocrites. They should mind their own freakin’ business.

ChRistian women’s gRouP DeCLines to tiP gaY waitRess; Leaves bibLe veRse insteaD tiffany Fandl – That’s why I discriminate against religious folks. Cordial accommodation is the most they get from me. Joseph green –

Luimar Zibetti –

Garza oh you old coots.... yer just bored silly with your lives that you have to impose upon others. What all those Mormons confessing that they can’t break away from the porn in bishop meeting after bishop meeting? First you put your nose in Prop 8, then you call the LGBT community quite the “abomination” (no less than what those jihadists are doing) and now you’re gonna be Papa Smurf and “forbid” people from watching porn. Yer perverts ya know... just idiotic, mind numbing perverts.

steve Johnson –

Post their pic from the security cameras and let it go viral....yeah [teach] those bitches a lesson

ah self-righteousness. How we love it.

Fag on a Cake?? whoLe FooDs stoRY a mYsteRY greg Phelps –

I have to question why this man even took the cake home if he noticed it in the parking lot…why wouldn’t he have taken it back immediately and asked to speak to the manager in person? Not saying he isn’t telling the truth, but by leaving the premises and allowing time to pass, he opens himself up to doubt.

will Portalatin –

All I am saying is that if he is fabricating this story then it would be such a huge disappointment and insult to those who fought for our rights of equality and love. If he isn’t then a shame to Whole Foods but this surveillance footage is really not making this customer look good at the moment.

SouthFloridaGayNews.com

APRIL 27, 2016 • VOLUME 7 • ISSUE 17 2520 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY • WILTON MANORS, FL 33305 PHONE: 954-530-4970 FAX: 954-530-7943

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Paul Castilonia –

Whole Foods from what I’ve seen is very LGBT friendly.

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• 4.27.2016

& 3 FLORIDA PRESS CLUB Awards And runner-up for

NLGJA Journalist of the Year

Associated Press

In Memoriam

DENNIS JOZEFOWICZ INTERNET DIRECTOR 2010 - 2016

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 © 2016 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

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news highlight

gaY magaZine eDitoR haCkeD to Death John McDonald

ulhaz Mannan is being described in the press as a person with heart and courage. “He was the kind of person willing to fight for what he believed, someone ready to stand up for his own rights and the rights of others,” said USAID administrator Gayle Smith. The international diplomatic community is in mourning this week amid the horrific news of Mannan’s killing. Editor of the only LGBT magazine in the Asian country of Bangladesh, Mannan, 35, was murdered by members of a militant terrorist group with ties to al-Qaeda. Police in the Bangladesh capital city of Dhaka, said the slaying occurred on Monday. Attackers, reportedly, ambushed Mannan and his friend, Tanay Mojumder, in his second story apartment. “We are profoundly saddened by the loss of one of our own in such a senseless act of violence, and we extend our deepest condolences to Xulhaz’s family and loved ones,” said U.S. Secretary of State John

Kerry, in a news release. In addition to his editing duties, Mannan worked for the United States Agency for International Development. He was a local hire, State Department officials said, employed at the U.S. embassy in Dhaka. The Associated Press is reporting the militant group Ansar al-Islam is claiming responsibility for the attacks, motivated by Mannan’s LGBT activism. Ansar al-Islam, which has been linked to the global terrorist organization al-Qaeda, told the AP the attack was motivated by “pioneers of practicing and promotiong homosexuality in Bangladesh.” Meanwhile, the U.S. is seeking justice and remains committed to human rights for all. “We offer our full support to the government of Bangladesh as they investigate these murders and bring the perpetrators to justice. We remain committed to the principles that were so important to Xulhaz, and we promise to support all those who work on behalf of tolerance and human rights in Bangladesh and around the world,” Kerry said.

4.27.2016 •

news local

Submitted Photo

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Fort Lauderdale Church Studies Human Trafficking

Submitted Photo.

John McDonald

recent United Nations report estimated 1.2 million globally become victims of human trafficking annually. Another study, conducted by UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) discovers one in three juvenile runaways is solicited for sex within 48 hours of leaving home. UNICEF also estimates human trafficking to generate $150 million in profits every year with states such as California, Texas, New York and Florida having the highest rates. This weekend one church in Fort Lauderdale is facilitating a conference to better understand and deal with this alarming topic. United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale, 2501 N.E. 30th Street, is hosting a spring gathering, April 29-30, in which 84 UCC churches from across Florida are scheduled to participate. Keynote speaker is Dr. Stephanie Goins, executive program director for Love146.org. Dr. Goins is expected to speak about the face

of “modern slavery.” Six workshops are also scheduled to examine the topic, including an LGBTQ angle. On its website, Love146.org president and cofounder Rob Morris shares a story of a mission to southeast Asia that resulted in a raid of a brothel where children were being sold for sex. The number 146 represents one of the girls Morris and his team of investigators witnessed at the brothel. “Her number was 146,” Morris writes. “She was looking beyond the glass. She was staring out at us with a piercing gaze. There was still fight left in her eyes. There was still life left in this girl….”

To register for the conference, visit www.uccfla.org or call (954) 563-4271.

Pam Doto Remembered as Editor who Extended Faith and Friendship to Her Reporters Michael d’Oliveira

he Forum newsroom under Pam Doto was part journalism, part episode of The Office. Doto, 53, vice president of editorial at Forum Publishing Group since 2001, died on April 16 at Holy Cross Hospital in Fort Lauderdale. Her partner of 14 years, Jennifer Mellichamp, cited complications from intestinal failure as the cause of death. Jennifer Boehm, former page designer at Forum, remembers chicken wing eating contests, office chair races and Halloween costumes. “She knew that the newspaper industry was a tough industry to be in. While she wanted us to work hard and obviously get the news reported, she knew it was important for us to have fun in the office and that it would bring us closer together as a group.” “It was fun, hijinks, chaos. It was planned chaos. She liked that silliness that people brought,” said Laura Kokus, former editor at Forum and the Sun Sentinel. “We did some crazy things there. We turned her office into a garden with mulch and a pathway. That’s what she brought out in us. A lot of creative chaos. I’m so heartbroken I don’t know what to say.” And like any good editor, Doto knew how to listen. “You could go in and talk to her about any problems, whether it was work or your personal life. She really had great advice. She wasn’t just a boss. She was also a friend,” said Boehm. Before joining Forum in 2001, Doto was the managing editor of the Tonawanda News in Buffalo, city editor of The Key West Citizen and associate editor of the Solares Hill Newspaper in Key West. She got her start in journalism as a reporter at the Anchorage Daily News in 1990. Along with her partner and family, Doto leaves behind numerous reporters and exreporters who say she gave them their start in journalism. “Pam was so supportive of anything I wanted to do. She wanted to make coming to work as

fun and meaningful as possible, and she did. She gave me my first column. Who does that with someone fresh out of college?” asked Abbi Schorr Perry, former columnist for the Jewish Journal. “And she let this kid write every month? She had faith in all her employees.” “She cared. She just cared about everyone that worked for her. I think she realized the key to having good people, that stick around, is you had to make it worth it to them,” said Elissa Rosen, former page designer at Forum. “Pam was one of the coolest ladies I ever knew. She always wore business suits to work but she was probably the most fun person I’ve ever met. She used to skateboard. She played the drums. Every now and then she would reveal a piece of herself.” “Pam learned how to play the drums at the age of 10. Self-taught. She played the keyboard and bass. She could pick up instruments and know how to play songs. It was just amazing to see her play the drums,” Mellichamp said. “She just knew music inside and out. That would have probably been an alternate career for her. She was just really a good musician. It was amazing to see that side of her as opposed to this more assertive journalist type.” That side also included a love of animals and camping. “She loved to go camping. Pam knew how to survive. She had very good survival instincts. She was very industrious. I think one time Howard Saltz called her MacGyver,” Mellichamp said. Most of all, she loved her staff. “Up until the end, she was thinking about her staff. Her last words really were about her staff. ‘Tell my staff I love them.’” Doto is survived by her sister and brotherin-law, Stephanie and Mike Behrent, and her niece and nephew, Nicole and Nathan Behrent. Services were held on Saturday at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point. Interment will be at St. James Cemetery in Westfield, New York.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Big Dog Ranch Rescue at BDRR.org.

• 4.27.2016

VICKY• KELLER

Longtime Pride Committee Member Dead At 90 John McDonald

ivien Keller, a woman often characterized as putting others’ interests ahead of her own, passed on Sunday, April 24. She was 90. Known to her friends as simply, “Miss Vicky,” Keller was active in several South Florida organizations, adding input as a straight ally as well as performing as an actor and musician. “You can name a bar in the ‘80s and ‘90s that was open in Fort Lauderdale and Vicky played it,” said Jodi Fischer, a longtime friend, who served as Keller’s care giver during her final years. “She always had her finger on the pulse of what was happening in the community.” Keller helped launch two important organizations – AIDS Center One and Womynsong Lesbian Chorus. For many years she lent her talents in a leadership role for Pride South Florida. “It was never about her,” said Miik Martorell, a Pride Fort Lauderdale team member. “It was always about what she could do for someone else…for the community.” Martorell said Keller’s presence at Pride board meetings typically brought

about order and respect to what were often contentious meetings. “She didn’t get involved in the politics and evilness of it,” Martorell said. “For board members who were stressed out it was good to hear her talk.” The wisdom Keller offered was returned with gratitude when she fell on hard times last year. Through the help of a GoFundMe account, nearly $10,000 was raised to help Fischer manage Keller’s care after her rent was unexpectedly raised. Over the weekend, Keller was moved to Holy Cross hospice, Fischer said, where she lived her final days. “A community icon…rest in peace, sleep well and wake up smiling,” wrote Jodi Reichman on SFGN’s Facebook page. “You deserve a great ride to your next location where you will be welcomed with open arms.” Congregation Etz Chaim is hosting a memorial service for Keller on May 3 at 7 p.m. inside building B at the Pride Center at Equality Park. Martorell said he expects the service to be an emotional one as “Miss Vicky touched so many people.”

4.27.2016 •

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Compiled by Jillian Melero

Fort Lauderdale visitors bureau Committed to Lgbt Rights (Fort Lauderdale CVB) The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau in Broward County is reaffirming its commitment to the human rights of gay couples, gay families and transgender residents and travelers following recent laws that discriminate against the LGBTQ community in some U.S. states. “We fought and won this debate more than 20 years ago when we expanded the Broward County Human Rights Act to include sexual orientation as a protected classification in 1995,” said Nicki E. Grossman, president and CEO, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. Broward County enforces a local ordinance to protect the LGBTQ community, including

ethodist Bishop & Pastor Risk Jobs, Marry Gay Couple in NC

(EDGE) North Carolina continued to be a hotbed of LGBT controversy this weekend when two Methodist clergymen, in defiance of church policy, risked their jobs by officiating the marriage of a gay couple. “The ultimate action would be removal of my order,” Bishop Melvin Talbert told BuzzFeed News, acknowledging the risks for himself and Pastor Val Rosenquist. “I would no longer be a bishop.” The wedding of gay couple Jim Wilborne and John Romano was intentionally timed to coincide with a vote next month of the United Methodist Church’s voting body to repeal the ban on clergy marrying same-sex couples. Previous attempts to overturn the ban failed in 2008 and 2012. Talbert is hoping that the wedding could help sway church delegates. “If the delegates are open-minded, this could have a positive impact,” Talbert told BuzzFeed. Talbert is no stranger to civil rights activists. In 1960 he was arrested with Dr. Martin Luther King in the Atlanta sitins. He says that marrying the gay couple is “an act of civil disobedience. The only difference is we are giving it another name in calling it biblical obedience.” He has previously defied church policy by marrying same-sex couples. “Discrimination is discrimination no matter where it is,” he added. “It was race discrimination then, and it is discrimination based on sexual orientation now.” “My congregation has worked for decades to include the LGBTQ community,” Talbert’s co-officiant Pastor Val Rosenquist of the First Methodist Church of North Carolina in Charlotte said. According to UMC.org, in August, the congregation voted to allow any adult member of the church to marry there. “The United Methodist Church has upheld what I consider to be incredibly discriminatory and unjust legislation for too long,” Rosenquist said.

• 4.27.2016

the unlawful discrimination in public accommodations that includes denying, withholding or refusing an individual or group the full and equal enjoyment of goods, services or facilities that may occur in a place of public accommodations or establishment. “It is evident the practices Broward County put in place more than two decades ago have made Greater Fort Lauderdale successful and a leader in LGBT rights. We have and will continue to set a standard for other destinations to follow,” said Gray. For more information, please visit www.sunny.org/lgbt.

allies for, Against House Bill 2 Set on Session’s First Day

(AP) North Carolina legislators returning for their annual work session will hear loud and clear from supporters and opponents of a law they approved last month addressing bathroom use by transgender people and limiting government protections for LGBT citizens. Christian conservatives and other backers of the law known as House Bill 2 scheduled a midday rally Monday - the first day of the session - near the Legislative Building in Raleigh. Later civil rights groups led by the state NAACP will rally to oppose Republican policies like the law approved in a special session last month. They also plan a “mass sit-in” inside the Legislative Building. Earlier Monday, representatives of gay-rights groups will present a petition to Gov. Pat McCrory’s office asking he seek the law’s repeal.

Charlotte, N.C.

lue Man Group Latest to Cancel NC Dates Over Anti-LGBT Law

(AP) The Blue Man Group is the latest musical act to cancel shows in North Carolina after the state’s passage of a law limiting anti-discrimination protections for the LGBT community. The group was scheduled to perform June 17 through June 19 in Charlotte but issued a statement Friday that it was canceling the shows. The statement said the group values “every individual’s right to live a dignified, vibrant life in full color. As such, we are joining the growing list of entertainment professionals in protest of North Carolina’s HB2 law.” Other artists who have cancelled North Carolina appearances in the wake of the law’s passage include Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Ani DiFranco, Pearl Jam and Boston.

chool Board Seeks Review of Transgender Bathroom Ruling

(AP) A Virginia school board will ask the full 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to review the court’s ruling that a high school discriminated against a transgender teen by forbidding him from using the boys’ restroom. In a statement presented at the Gloucester County School Board meeting Thursday night, Chairman Troy Andersen said the board decided unanimously to file a petition for an en banc hearing before the court. A three-judge panel ruled Tuesday that the policy is discriminatory. A federal judge had rejected a sex discrimination claim by Gloucester High School student Gavin Grimm, who was born female but identifies as male. After complaints, the school board adopted a policy requiring students to use public restrooms corresponding with their biological gender.

ayors Urge Tennessee Gov to Veto Counseling Exemption Bill

(AP) D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and her fellow big-city mayors are rallying to the defense of Tennessee’s LGBT community. Bowser is a member of Mayors Against Discrimination, a coalition of city executives from major metropolitan areas who support LGBT rights and oppose any actions intended to restrict freedoms for that vulnerable community. On Tuesday, the coalition sent a letter to Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam (R) urging him to veto a bill that would allow counselors and therapists to refuse service to LGBT clients by citing personal objections - including those that are not based on religious beliefs or moral principles. The coalition estimates that nearly onequarter of Tennessee’s 6.5 million residents live in rural areas, meaning they have fewer mental health professionals from whom they may seek treatment. The mayors also

Knoxville, Tenn.

note that the broadly-written nature of the bill could potentially lead to other forms of discrimination, such as a therapist refusing to treat a veteran. In addition to Bowser, other signatories of the letter are San Francisco Mayor Edwin Lee; New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio; Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti; Seattle Mayor Ed Murray; Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney; Kitty Piercy, the mayor of Eugene, Ore.; Javier Gonzales, the mayor of Santa Fe; and Jim Ellison, the mayor of Royal Oak, Mich. “[The bill] sets a dangerous precedent of intolerance for LGBT and other minority communities and will specifically impact already vulnerable individuals seeking mental health services,” the mayors’ letter continues. “We ask for your veto to prevent this misguided bill from becoming law.”

continued

bama Says Anti-LGBT Laws Should Be Overturned

(AP) President Barack Obama called on Friday for the overturning of a North Carolina law that requires transgender people to use public bathrooms conforming to the sex on their birth certificates and restricts protections for LGBT people. Obama criticized the state law and others targeting LGBT people during a news conference Friday in London. The United Kingdom had put out a travel advisory Friday warning British citizens about possible discrimination if they travel to certain U.S. states. Obama said he wanted the British to know that people in North Carolina and other states that have pursued similar legislation are “wonderful people” and that British citizens should feel free to come and enjoy themselves. He said he believes they’ll be treated with “extraordinary hospitality.” “I also think the laws that have been passed there are wrong and should be overturned,” Obama said. The president explained that he believed the laws were in response to “politics, in part,” as well as to “some strong emotions that are generated by people.” Obama also emphasized that some of the law’s proponents are “good people.” “Although I respect their different viewpoints, I think it’s very important for us not to send signals that anybody is treated differently,” Obama said. North Carolina’s so-called bathroom law, among other things, requires transgender people to use bathrooms corresponding to the gender on their birth certificate in state government buildings as well as public schools and universities. North Carolina state Senate leader Phil Berger, a Republican, and one of the most vocal supporters of the law, responded to Obama’s comments in a press release stating that “not every father has the luxury of secret service agents protecting his daughters’ right to privacy in the girls’ bathroom.” Berger has said the law protects women and girls from men using the false pretense of being transgender to enter women’s restrooms and locker rooms.

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elinda Carlisle to Take Part in Candlelight Vigil to Protest Mississippi Anti-LGBT Law

(EDGE) While comic Tracy Morgan and rocker Bryan Adams have cancelled dates in Mississippi over the recent passage of antiLGBT legislation, former Go-Go, Belinda Carlisle is saying “on with the show” -- with a peaceful protest to follow. The 80s pop icon will take part in a “candlelight vigil” at the IP Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi on Saturday night as a peaceful protest to the anti-LGBT “religious freedom” law recently signed into action by Gov. Phil Bryant, The Sun Herald reports. “We’re calling it a candlelight vigil, but you can’t actually burn candles inside Studio A at the IP,” organizer Brandiilyne Dear of Hattiesburg told the Sun Herald. “So, we are giving out glow sticks to those that want to attend.” Carlisle, who is mother to a gay son and activist is expected to speak at the vigil. The peaceful protest will follow Carlisle’s scheduled performance at the IP. According to the Sun Herald, the “Heaven on Earth” singer and former member of the Go-Go’s initially thought of cancelling her concert in response to the law. “Belinda contacted some friends in the LGBT community,” Dear said of the vigil, “and

Photo Credit: Phil King.

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they contacted me about getting something together. We only had 10 days to get this together and the IP has been very helpful in allowing us to do this.” Dear said she has invited some Coast mayors to attend the ceremony. A petition will be circulated that encourages state lawmakers to repeal the bill.

hange in NC Law Needed for All-Star in Charlotte

Photo: CNN.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver Presser

(AP) Commissioner Adam Silver believes the NBA has been “crystal clear” that the 2017 All-Star Game only stays in Charlotte if a North Carolina law goes. Political and business leaders he’s spoken with in the state believe it will, so he’s holding off for now on setting any deadlines for when the NBA might act. Silver said last week that the law that limits anti-discrimination protections for lesbian, gay and transgender people was “problematic” for the league, but he believed dialogue was more useful than ultimatums at this point, so has continued discussions with North Carolina officials. “The sense was that if the NBA could give us some time, they in the community of North Carolina were optimistic they

• 4.27.2016

would see a change in the law. They weren’t guaranteeing it and I think which was why my response was the event still is 10 months from now, we don’t need to make a decision yet,” Silver said Thursday during a meeting of Associated Press Sports Editors. “We’ve been, I think, crystal clear that we believe a change in the law is necessary for us to play in the kind of environment that we think is appropriate for a celebratory NBA event, but that we did have some time and that if the view of the people who were allied with us in terms of a change, if their view, the people on the ground in North Carolina, was that the situation would best be served by us not setting a deadline, we would not set a deadline at this time.”

news national

everyone’s talking about nC’s antiLgbt Law --except nC’s Lawmakers Associated Press

While the whole country is talking about the North Carolina law that limits protections for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, a new survey shows one group that largely refuses to discuss it: the lawmakers who passed it. Less than a third of the state’s legislators answered in a statewide survey whether they’d prefer to amend the law or leave it as-is when their session starts Monday. A couple cited an impending Rotary meeting or preparations to run for Congress as reasons why they had no time to answer, while another simply hung up on a reporter in between questions. The survey, conducted by reporters from seven newspapers and The Associated Press since April 13, consisted of three questions posed to all 168 current senators and representatives. Seeking a yes-or-no answer, the first asked: “Do you support revisiting House Bill 2 to possibly amend it during the regular session?” The second asked which parts they wanted to address, while the third sought any further comments. Here’s what one Republican who voted for the legislation, Rep. William Brawley, thought of the survey: “We read your questionnaire and believed it was a trap and I would not respond.” Overall, 41 lawmakers - mostly Democrats said they favor revisiting the law. That’s several more than the group - also mostly Democrats - who voted against it or left their chamber in protest the day it passed during a March special session. The law says that in government buildings as well as public schools and universities, transgender people must use bathrooms corresponding with the gender on their birth certificate. It also excludes sexual orientation and gender identity from statewide antidiscrimination protections and overrules local nondiscrimination ordinances. The law has drawn widespread criticism from equality advocates and business leaders and even rock icons such as Bruce Springsteen, who canceled a concert. Eleven survey respondents said they weren’t in favor of changing the law. Another 17 either declined to comment or offered an equivocal answer. The rest simply didn’t answer their phones or return messages or emails.

Several sought to quickly get off the phone. Reached at home, Rep. John M. Blust answered question No. 1 by saying: “I’m not looking at doing that right now.” “Can I put you down as a ‘no’?” a reporter asked. The Republican, who voted for the state law, said he had no more time to talk because he was mired in work on his campaign for U.S. Congress in North Carolina’s 13th District. Republican Rep. Josh Dobson, who also voted for the legislation, said: “I usually refer everything to the Speaker’s office,” then hung up before a reporter could ask a follow-up question. Rep. Pat Hurley politely said she was preparing for a Rotary meeting and asked a reporter to call back around 2 p.m. She didn’t answer the second call. Of 41 lawmakers on AP’s portion of the list, a handful responded promptly. Twentyeight never returned calls and emails to their legislative offices, followed by messages on home, mobile or business numbers. Democratic Sen. Floyd McKissick of Durham, who wants the law repealed and left in protest when it passed, suggested some may be unwilling to talk out of embarrassment or loyalty to the Republican caucus. “I’ve spoken to two that were not really happy with the bill to start with, but the pressure of the caucus to stick together is very strong,” he said. “But none of them would ever speak publicly against their caucus.” One lawmaker not afraid to discuss his support for the bill is Sen. Jerry Tillman, who speaks with a frankness sharpened over seven terms in the chamber. “I would not be for amending it,” he said by phone. “We passed a good bill, and I’m ready to stand on that bill.” He added, “Right now I don’t even feel like the mood is there to do any changes.” Hours later, Senate leader Phil Berger echoed that sentiment. While Berger didn’t respond to the survey, he discussed the likelihood of any changes with reporters Wednesday: “I don’t know that I would at any point be ready to say we are going to make any changes. I just don’t see the need for it.”

4.27.2016 •

feature profile

Truth Wins Out C E L E B R AT E S 1 0 Y E A R S Christiana Lilly

ayne Besen was 18 years old when he first experienced an attempt to rid him of his homosexuality. It was 1988 and his parents bought him a self-help tape called “Gay and Unhappy,” which claims to use “self hypnosis” and “subliminal persuasion” to turn someone straight. Decades later, he would use this experience to help fight all forms of conversion therapy. “Instead of my parents dealing with the issue, that was the first thing they turned to when they saw that in the store, this tape,” he said. “So I understood intuitively how this works, how that dynamic works within families, because it happened to me.” Besen is the founder and executive director of Truth Wins Out (TWO), celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. It was when former President George W. Bush invited the leaders of Exodus International, a religious conversion therapy group, to the White House that Besen saw that work needed to be done. He had published the book “Anything but Straight: Unmasking the Scandals and Lies Behind the Ex-Gay Myth” in 2003 and was already in advocacy work. “That was a very dangerous message to send young people,” Besen said of Bush’s guests. “This whole ex-gay message has found its way into the highest office of the land, and that has to be countered because it’s a very insidious lie, being one of the worst around.” “It denies people their very existence and it’s very effective, too. It allows people to believe that their own child can pray away the gay, therefore they don’t have to accept them. It’s something of a temporary phase, so why go for acceptance if you can start that process?” So he founded TWO in 2006, pouring his savings into the cause and receiving generous donations from other LGBT activists. The group identified its “foes” as Focus on the Family’s Love Won Out program, Exodus International, Love in Action, Jews Offering New Alternatives to Homosexuality, now for Healing (JONAH) and other conversion therapy groups. Conversion therapy and the ex-gay movement are practices, typically rooted in religious belief, that one’s homosexuality can be removed through prayer, fasting, reading scripture, and even going as far as torture and exorcism. The therapies are performed at houses of worship, therapist's offices, and camps. TWO’s mission was to conduct research into groups, which helped scholars, lawyers, and other LGBT groups with

• 4.27.2016

their own work. Much of this is done through TWOCARE, the organization’s Center Against religious Extremism. In 2007, TWO made waves when it exposed reparative therapy going on in the clinic of Marcus Bachmann, the husband of Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. TWO sent in an undercover “patient” armed with a hidden camera and recorded multiple sessions where he was told that no one is born gay and that he could be cured. Love in Action ended its camp, Refuge, in 2007 and started the Family Freedom Intensive, another camp for adults and their children, a month later. Love Won Out was sold from Focus on the Family to Exodus International, which disbanded in June 2013. In the summer of 2015, JONAH was at the center of the nation’s first trial on conversion therapy. The Southern Poverty Law Center claimed that not only was their work unethical, but it was also consumer fraud. “I call it malpractice because every respected medical and mental health organization says it doesn't work and gay people aren't mentally ill,” Besen explained. “[These groups] start talking about what they do and how they do it and even conservatives aren't buying it. I mean that’s how you beat them: the question of how. That’s when people see it for the fraud it is, for the danger it truly is, and for the deceptive practice that should be banned. It’s really a con artist’s game.” The jury found that JONAH was guilty of misrepresentation and the courts required that it pay $72,400 in damages and $3.5 million in legal fees, according to Slate. In December 2015, it was ordered that the group disband and could no longer practice conversion therapy in the state of New Jersey. “I think we’ve been enormously successful even beyond what I had hoped and expected given the results of how that movement is now in tatters,” Besen said. “They're all gone now and we’re still standing, and that’s exactly what I promised… we pound(ed) them relentlessly for a decade into oblivion.”

While legislation to illegalize the practice for minors is underway in multiple states, religious freedom has made it hard to ban it for adults. Besen believes it should be illegalized completely because of consumer fraud, but admits that TWO’s energy is best spent on helping youngsters forced into conversion therapy. “Make no mistake, it’s extraordinarily damaging when people are put under this practice at any age,” he said. “I think we should just focus right now on youth. You can’t stop everybody from being harmed, but we certainly though can protect our kids.” Also, with the internet, TWO putting out its research and Besen’s books -- he wrote “Bashing Back” in 2007 -- the priority is helping those considering therapy to not enter, or for those who are already in it, to leave. “If someone stays in it for two years instead of 10, that’s a victory and we've helped them enormously,” he said. Today, Besen is also taking his message to the airwaves as the host of “The Wayne Besen Show” on Chicago’s Progressive Talk. TWO continues working with other groups working to ban conversion therapy, sharing its expertise and research on the topic. In fact, because of the success of TWO, every year they have evaluated whether it is needed any longer. “At this point, we’ve put most of these groups out,” he said. “We always assess, is there more we can do? Are we needed? And then go from there.”

politics out on the trail

news key west Submitted photos.

mike satZ LaunChes CamPaign FoR Re-eLeCtion John McDonald

The law ofﬁces of George Castrataro hosted a fundraiser for State Attorney Mike Satz (light blue shirt) last week at a coffee shop in Fort Lauderdale.

Drag Races and Bed Races mark annual celebration

Photo: John McDonald.

ConCh RePubLiC oFF to the RaCes Andrew Printer

f you have ever visited Key West then you will be familiar with the conch. The word is pretty much everywhere, found in a variety of contexts. Queen conchs (pronounced “konk”) are soft-bodied animals (mollusks) recognizable by their spiral shapes and glossy pink or orange interiors. This most majestic variety has been a protected species since 1992. Meanwhile, the meat of lesser varieties is consumed throughout the Caribbean, most notably in the form of deep fried fritters. A conch is also how many inhabitants of Key West are defined. “Saltwater Conchs” describe locals who were born in Key West while a “Freshwater Conch” refers to a resident not born in Key West but who has lived in Key West for seven or more years. The designation is a big deal for a destination city where people come and go and there is a real pride in local roots and ancestry. Traced back to its origin, however, a conch was originally a slang term for native Bahamians of European descent. Despite the loosening of the 19th century definition, the descriptor has stuck, becoming even more symbolic thanks to a brouhaha that resulted in the secession of the city of Key West from the U.S. on April 23, 1982. The gesture was tongue-in-cheek at the time and a tourist attraction now, but the creation of the Conch Republic was initiated by a very real problem. Key West is essentially connected to mainland Florida by a few slim roads. In an attempt to stem the ﬂow of narcotics and illegal immigrants the U.S. Border patrol routinely ran road-blocks on these roads which also inconvenienced tourists making their way to and from the beaches and bars. This in turn hurt the Keys’ vital tourism industry. When the city’s complaints went unanswered and an injunction failed,

local authorities declared independence. This was untenable and the city quickly surrendered (they also immediately applied for one billion dollars in foreign aid, which it did not get) but a crucial message was received loud and clear and the roadblocks stopped. Now, the creation of the Conch Republic is heralded as a significant moment in Keys lore when a small mouse roared and government listened. If you ﬂy into Key West a banner will welcome you to the Conch Republic. A local office will issue you a souvenir passport. Each year the Fringe Theatre closes its season with Conch Republic (the Musical). And each year Duval Street closes for two Saturdays in a row, the first for drag races (men in heels not men in cars), the second for bed races. This year marks the 34th anniversary of the Conch Republic celebrations and a schedule of events runs from April 22-30. Last weekend 12 men, some notable local drag performers, others hardy volunteers lured from the crowd (including a seventyfive year old man and a an excessively enthusiastic visitor from Canada) ran a gauntlet of obstacles in the noonday sun. The anticipation was milked for a good hour, then the wigs began to ﬂy and the contenders winnowed down until a sweaty winner was anointed. This year young Omar Gallagos claimed victory. Where the drag race is an homage to Bourbon Street Pub Complex’ attempt to stimulate business during Key West’s 1982 stand-off the popular bar’s Red Ribbon Bed Race happening on Saturday, April 30 will benefit AIDS Help. The event is Bourbon Street Pub’s oldest and most famous event and, according to Joey Schroeder the Pub’s owner “the most fun you can have in bed…. with your clothes on.”

Visit ConchRepiublic .com for the full schedule.

4.27.2016 •

lgbtqia bites

Lesbian

Lesbian DenieD seRviCe at La. DoLLaR stoRe

Compiled by Jillian Melero

bisexual

FoRmeR us senatoR taLks oF 2 Loves CLaRe anD matthew

(EDGE) A New Orleans Family Dollar Store was the site of anti-LGBT discrimination on Friday when a cashier refused to serve a customer because she is gay. “The cashier was just loudly stating her opinion on her disdain for gay people,” Melissa Langford told CBS affiliate WWLTV. “Eventually I spoke up because I couldn’t take it anymore.” “Excuse me, I happen to be very, very gay, and you’re really offending me,” Langford said according to NOLA.com. Langford’s altercation with the cashier drew support from another customer at the store, who was also denied service for standing by her.

• 4.27.2016

In a cell phone video of the incident, the cashier can be heard saying, “I’m not serving them two.” [Langford] is then heard in the video saying, “She won’t serve me because I’m gay and because he doesn’t like anti-gay people.” WWL notes that when Langford asked to speak to the manager, she got no results. This led to a shouting match between the cashier and customer who supported her. Langford captured the incident on social media, which drew local broadcast media attention. When WWL’s Eyewitness News contacted the store to get their side of the story, the manager on duty claimed to know nothing about it.

Photo Credit: CNN.

Former U.S. Sen. Harris Wofford

(AP) Former U.S. Sen. Harris Wofford talks tenderly of his two loves - his late wife Clare and his soon-to-be spouse Matthew Charlton - in a New York Times opinion piece. The 90-year-old Pennsylvania statesman says in the Sunday piece it’s been his good fortune to pair love with a best friend twice in life. He says “too often, our society seeks to label people by

pinning them on the wall - straight, gay or in between.” Wofford reﬂects on his life with his wife of 48 years - they had three children - and how he unexpectedly fell in love with Charlton five years after her death. The former adviser to President John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. says he and the 40-year-old Charlton plan to marry April 30.

lgbtqia bites

continued

transgender

tRans teen saYs he was booteD FRom CRuZ RaLLY in mD.

Photo Credit: Facebook.

James Van Kuilenburg

(EDGE) A transgender high school student said he was forced to leave a Ted Cruz campaign rally in Frederick, Maryland Thursday, the Frederick News-Post reports. James Van Kuilenburg, 16, was draped in the transgender ﬂag and entered the Weinberg Center for the Arts for the rally last week. But he and his mother Nicola Van Kuilenburg said they were kicked out by campaign staff, who told them they were asked to leave because they were with peaceful protesters outside the rally earlier. Because it was a private event, they could be asked to leave, Nicola told the newspaper.

James told Jezebel, “I wanted them to see that Cruz’s words can hurt people like me. I wasn’t there to protest him; I wanted the mostly Republican people in the audience to see who I am, and know I am not a predator, or dangerous, or a freak,” he told the website. “Before he even came on stage, I was forcibly removed without a reason by a security guy and a local cop. They refused to give me a reason and told me that the campaign didn’t want me present. I was wearing a trans pride ﬂag and a t-shirt from NCTE.”

4.27.2016 •

community announcement

news national

Dining out FoR LiFe aPRiL 28 H

elp make a difference by simply enjoying a meal with family or friends during Dining Out For Life hosted by Subaru, a delicious event held on Thursday, April 28th. The annual event is magnificent in its simplicity: Dine at one of the 3,000 participating restaurants in nearly 60 cities across North America and that restaurant will donate a generous portion of the day's proceeds to fund HIV/AIDS care, prevention, education, testing, counseling and other essential services in their city. 2016 marks the fourth consecutive year that Broward House will be the local host/ beneficiary organization. Broward County’s longest-serving and largest HIV/ AIDS service organization, Broward House had more than 8,000 contacts with individuals through their prevention/education, testing, case management, assisted and independent living programs and their counseling and substance abuse treatment programs. Broward House President and CEO Stacy Hyde states, “in 2015 we had 17 participating restaurants in Broward County and our team is hard at work to increase the number in 2016. We invite everyone to go out and eat at one of our generous restaurant partners on April 28th and support our mission to provide care and prevent HIV.”

‘‘

GENUINE

CROWD -PLEASER THAT PACKS AN EMOTIONAL WALLOP. Director Breathnach achieves a triumph with the actors.’’ Stephen Farber, THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER

AN EMOTIONFILLED DRAMA that uncovers an authentic Cuba.’’ ‘‘

Gary Kramer, INDIEWIRE

“

VIVID

AND FRESH.

The other star of the film is Havana itself.” Casper Llewellyn Smith, THE GUARDIAN

VIVA F I N D

Y O U R

V O I C E

STARTS FRIDAY, APRIL 29

FORT LAUDERDALE THE CLASSIC GATEWAY THEATRE 1820 E Sunrise Blvd (954) 763-7994 AVENTURA AMC AVENTURA 24 19501 Biscayne Blvd amctheatres.com MIAMI COBB DOLPHIN 19 11471 NW 12th St (305) 591-0785 MIAMI MDC TOWER THEATER 1508 SW 8th St (305) 237-2463

• 4.27.2016

MIAMI O CINEMA WYNWOOD 90 NW 29th St (305) 571-9970 MIAMI BEACH REGAL SOUTH BEACH STADIUM 18 1120 Lincoln Rd (844) 462-7342 #198 MIAMI LAKES COBB MIAMI LAKES 17 6711 Main St (305) 558-3810 SOUTH MIAMI AMC SUNSET PLACE 24 5701 Sunset Dr amctheatres.com

Volunteer spokespeople include Ted Allen, host of Food Network's Chopped, actor Pam Grier (Foxy Brown, Jackie Brown), designer Mondo Guerra, winner of Lifetime's Project Runway All-Stars, and chef Daisy Martinez from Food Network's Viva Daisy! "I love working with (Dining Out For Life) because it's just such a cool, very low overhead operation that raises more than $4 million for American HIV and AIDS service organizations in a single day…It also helps restaurants and chefs get new people coming in to try what they're doing. It just seems like such a win-win-win for everybody," says Ted Allen (HIV Plus Magazine, April 2015). "We have been the host sponsor of Dining Out For Life for a decade; however, the struggle to fight the HIV/AIDS epidemic continues on. Subaru is proud to be part of an event that spreads awareness for such a worthy cause and also encourages people to support those who need it most in their local communities." said Alan Bethke, vice president of marketing, Subaru of America, Inc.

To see the full list visit: www.DiningOutForLife.com/ BrowardCounty/restaurants/

Ocean Morisset Photography.

Clients at the Ali Forney Center.

aLi FoRneY CenteR Raising moneY to oPen homeLess sheLteR in nYC Christiana Lilly

n the Harlem neighborhood of New York City, the Atlah World Missionary Church is known for creating controversy. Shining from its marquee, hanging over the front entry, the pastor puts up homophobic messages such as, “Obama has released the homo demons on the black man. Look out black woman. A white homo may take your man.” But in a strange twist of fate, an LGBT youth center might be buying the church with hopes to turn it into a shelter. The Ali Forney Center (AFC), founded in 2002, sees about 1,400 homeless LGBT youth through its doors every single year and through its #HarlemNoHate campaign is hoping to acquire the building. With the church facing foreclosure, an auction date will be set pending the outcome of a hearing on April 26. So far, the center has raised $330,000 and hopes that if they win the bid, it will be enough to put a down payment on the property, which has a lien of $1.02 million. “About half of the young people who come into AFC have been thrown out because of the religious beliefs of their families,” said Carl Siciliano, the founder and executive director of the center. “Even though [these signs seem] really out there, unfortunately there are lot of parents in this country who are lead to believe things like this.” The center is named for activist Ali Forney, who used to sleep on the grounds of Marcus Garvey Park. Homeless since he was 13, the gender non-conforming teen lived on the streets and got by on survival sex and drugs. However, at the age of 17 he started to turn his life around when he went to Siciliano’s Safe Space drop-in center. He went back out on the streets, this time to

educate youth and even hand out condoms to drug dealers. Sadly, at 18 he was shot in the head in front of a housing project. He was the third transgender person killed in the neighborhood in 18 months. Siciliano founded the center for homeless LGBT youth ages 16 to 24, where they get help from 10 housing sites and a drop in center that provides medical care, mental health care, hormone placement, job training, and more. One-third of those who use AFC’s services are gender nonconforming. “These kids are desperate on the streets,” Siciliano said. “Their lives are extremely brutal and hard and they’re terrified … many of them choose to sleep out on the streets and the subways.” Just like Forney did in the ‘90s, when he would often sleep on a hill at Marcus Garvey Park -- just one block east of the Atlah church. Siciliano said that for years the church has put up odd messages, such as claiming Obama was a Muslim, but it was more of a freedom of speech issue. Later, the pastor started putting up “virulently homophobic signs” and messages calling for violence against LGBT people. With their namesake being an activist who was shot in the head, and a transgender woman, Islan Nettles, beaten to death in Harlem in 2013, violence against LGBT people is a real fear. Community activists lead the charge, protesting in front of the church as well as raising funds for LGBT teens. Siciliano brought the kids from his shelters to see how everyone was standing up for them. “I just see it as very dangerous and [inciting] to call for violence against lgbt people and I feel like it really puts our young people at a great deal of risk,” Siciliano said.

To donate and learn more about the Ali Forney Center, visit AliForneyCenter.org.

news miami-dade Photos: Facbeook.

gaY aDvoCate ReP. RiChaRDson hosts town haLL Anthony Beven

n what he called an opportunity to exchange ideas and get feedback on the issues most important to the community, state rep. David Richardson held an open forum town hall meeting at the Miami Beach Golf Club on the evening of April 14. Richardson, an openly gay Democrat, began the meeting with a re-cap of the most recent legislative session in Tallahassee. “Let’s talk about some things that happened, and didn’t happen,” he said, noting that an $82.3 billion budget was passed – the largest ever in Florida. Gov. Rick Scott, a Republican, did not get the $1 billion in tax cuts he hoped for, Richardson said. “We can’t afford it,” he said, adding that the tax cuts were around $120 million – less than $400$500 million in previous years. Scott also didn’t get his wish for $250 million tax incentives for businesses to move to Florida. “We’re paying people to move here, but not doing anything to keep businesses already here. It’s not fair,” Richardson said. On the LGBT front, Richardson said congressional and state senate re-districting will create more of a balance of power by allowing either pro-equality or openly gay politicians to take office throughout the state. “We’re within striking distance,” he said, adding that the other benefit is some far-right Republicans are moving to more moderate stances on progressive issues to align with the views of their constituencies to keep their seats. When Richardson asked for questions, Miami Beach resident Owen Carhart asked him, “Are we going to see the re-introduction of ‘bathroom’ or ‘religious freedom’ bills?” He said that one House member is trying to push through a bathroom bill currently, but does not have a sponsor in the Senate. Until he does, the bill won’t move forward to be voted on. “They don’t want to touch it with a 10-foot pole,” Richardson said, applauding the City of Miami Beach’s recently passed ordinance that bans travel to North Carolina and Mississippi after both states passed LGBT discriminatory laws. Also banned is the purchase of goods or

services sourced in these states until the laws are repealed or declared unconstitutional by the court system. Richardson said that he reminds his colleagues of situations like this around the country to keep anti-LGBT bills from becoming law. “The Miami Beach ordinance is exactly the kind of message that we need to send to Tallahassee,” he said. Other hot-topics brought up during the town hall included: CLASS SIZE LIMITS. Richardson said there wasn’t enough conversation on it this past session but said it’s an important one to be had. He said 90 percent of the schools in Miami-Dade are exempt from class size limit due to the way they are currently classified. EXPRESS LANES AT I-95 AND 41ST STREET. Commissioner Michael Grieco of Miami Beach said it’s been deemed unsafe due to drivers switching back and forth. Richardson said he’s spoken to constituents for it and against. FDOT, he said, is looking at a solution, but it will be costly and result in major construction. STATE OF THE BEACH. One resident said, “It looks like an ashtray.” Richardson said due to lobbying from tobacco companies it’s unlikely there will be a ban on smoking at the beach. He added that the incoming speaker owns a cigar company and actively works against any public smoking bans. SEA-LEVEL RISING. “At the state level is anyone acknowledging we have the most to lose?” one resident asked Richardson. He said that through sales tax, South Beach is the top-third contributor to the state but redistributing the wealth to address issues like this is a big challenge. UBER. Another resident expressed her concerns to Richardson about the ride-share service. This included holding Uber to the same standards as taxi cab companies, as well safety and liability issues. Richardson said they are working on bills, but added, “They are spending a lot of money on lobbyists.”

Anthony Martinez Beven covers Miami-Dade County for SFGN. He can be reached at anthony.beven@sfgn.com. 4.27.2016 •

Photo: Nigel Parry for CNN.

news national

Clinton, Trump Take New York

Lisa Keen

Keen News Service

A closer look at how the LGBT community voted

ed Cruz suffered the consequences of deriding “New York values,” John Kasich won a little support while speaking out against anti-gay laws, and Donald Trump raked in nearly all the chips from Tuesday’s New York primary by keeping a mostly muddled middle ground on rights for LGBT people. In the Democratic primary, where both candidates have long-standing records of respecting LGBT people, Hillary Clinton held nearly all the backing from LGBT leaders. She, too, trounced her opponent, Bernie Sanders. With big wins in the New York primary, Clinton and Trump have significantly tightened their grip on their parties’ presidential nominations. Former Secretary of State Clinton now has 80 percent of the 2,383 delegates she needs to secure the Democratic presidential nomination; U.S. Senator Sanders has 52 percent. Real estate titan Trump has 68 percent of the 1,237 delegates he needs to win the Republican nomination; U.S. Senator Cruz has 45 percent; Ohio Governor Kasich has 12 percent. Clinton boasted the endorsement of most well-known LGBT leaders in the state, including State Senator Brad Hoylman, New York State Assembly members Deborah Glick, Daniel O’Donnell, Harry Bronson,

• 4.27.2016

and Matthew Titone; New York City mayoral candidate Christine Quinn. She was also endorsed by openly LGBT New York City Councilmembers Daniel Dromm, Corey Johnson, Rosie Mendez, Jimmy Van Bramer, and James Vacca. And she also won the endorsement of the Stonewall Democratic Club of NYC. A New York Times map of how various New York City neighborhoods voted, showed Clinton taking 68 percent of the vote in heavily gay Chelsea, compared to Sanders’ 32 percent. She got 66 percent, versus Sanders’ 34 percent, in the West Village and SoHo. (By comparison Clinton won 79 percent of the vote in Wilton Manors). Even an untidy, self-selected survey of men in New York using a gay dating app found that most were supporting Clinton. The “data” collected by Scruff showed that, of 765 men who responded, 57 percent said they would be voting for Clinton, 32 percent for Sanders, four percent “undecided” but voting for a Democrat, and four percent for Trump. Almost two percent said they would vote for Kasich. Less than one percent (three people) backed Cruz. At an LGBT fundraiser in New York City March 30, openly gay actors Guillermo Díaz and Cynthia Nixon were on hand to welcome the candidate. Former State Senator Tom Duance endorsed Sanders.

‘People like that’ What made the run-up to the New York primary particularly interesting was all the talk about gay issues on the Republican side. In a town hall forum with CNN’s Anderson Cooper April 13, Cruz tried to redefine what he criticized in January as “New York values.” Many groups had taken offense at Cruz’s use of the term, including LGBT people who read it as code for acceptance of LGBT people and their equality under the law. But Cruz told Cooper he was only repeating the phrase Trump had used in 1999 in regards to partial birth abortion. Cruz said he used the term to describe “liberal Democrats who have been, frankly, hurting the people of New York over and over again.” He then shifted his defense of the term onto an Hispanic African American pastor and state senator, Ruben Diaz. He paraphrased Diaz as telling him in Spanish that he understood what Cruz was trying to say. “He said, ‘I know exactly what you mean by New York values because,’ he said, ‘I’m a Democrat… and my Democratic governor, Andrew Cuomo, said if you are pro-life, if you believe in traditional marriage, if you believe in the Second Amendment, you have no place in the state of New York’.”

Ultra-conservative commentator Glenn Beck tried to soften Cruz’s harsh edges, too. He quoted Cruz as saying he “chewed my staff out” for booking the candidate on the same stage with virulently anti-gay speaker Kevin Swanson early in the contest. Swanson told the audience that gays should be executed. Beck said he and his daughter were meeting with Cruz when his daughter asked Cruz why he appeared on the same stage such a man. Beck said Cruz told his daughter that he considered that speaker “reprehensible,” “bigoted,” and “despicable.” “I want nothing to do with him or any kind of alliances to people like that,” Beck said Cruz told him and his daughter. Two days before the primary, appearing on ABC’s Good Morning America, Cruz tackled a question from a man in the television audience who said he was leaning toward voting for Trump. The man, Todd Calongne, identified himself as being married to his husband for two years. Calongne said he noticed “religious freedom laws” and institutionalized discrimination” laws around the country. “What would you do as president to protect me and my husband from institutionalized discrimination?” “When it comes to religious liberty,” said Cruz, “religious liberty is something that protects everyone. …All of us, we want

news national to live in a world where we don’t have happened in Indiana,” Georgia, and the government dictating our beliefs, Mississippi –states that have passed laws dictating how we live. We have a right to to allow discrimination against LGBT live according to our faith, according to our people. conscience, and that freedom ultimately “In my state, first of all, I want no protects each and every one of us. And discrimination against anybody. I’m not we shouldn’t have the right to force others in favor of discrimination, period, end of to knuckle under and give up their faith story,” said Kasich. and give up their belief. And for me, I “Secondly, the Supreme Court ruled, have spent my entire adult life fighting to you know, in favor of gay marriage. I’m defend religious liberty, fighting to defend a traditional marriage guy. But the court the right of every one of us to seek out ruled. I’m allowing a court ruling to stand. and worship God. And I think keeping I’m not looking for some constitutional government out of the way of your lives amendment. It’s done.” protects the freedom of everyone of us.” “Now, our religious institution should There was a scattering of applause be protected. They should be able to do but show co-host Robin Roberts, who is the things they want,” continued Kasich. openly gay, jumped in. The town hall audience interrupted with “But when you talk about freedom,” applause, but Kasich quieted them to she said, reminding Cruz that Calongne add the rest of his thought –concerning has a husband, “a lot of people would say, discrimination by commercial entities. ‘Doesn’t everybody have “Let’s say I’m running a the freedom to be treated cupcake store. Somebody equally?’” comes in, they want to buy “In my state, “Of course we do,” cupcake,” said Kasich. “Sell ﬁrst of all, said Cruz, “and the First them a cupcake! OK?!” Amendment protects “Secondly, though, if I want no everyone equally.” He then I’m a photographer and discrimination leapt into a discussion of you want me to go to your against kosher delis. wedding and I don’t want This time, co-host to, you know, then, go find anybody. I’m George Stephanopoulos another photographer, not in favor of entered the fray. He noted okay?” discrimination, that Cruz supports efforts Kasich said he thought to repeal the U.S. Supreme “things were going along period, end of Court’s ruling against quite well after the story.” state bans on marriage for Supreme Court decision” same-sex couples. against state bans on - John Kasich “What would that mean marriage for same-sex for couples like Todd and couples but that some his husband who already are married?” he people “were using… this to some degree asked. as a wedge issue.” “Well, look, I’m a constitutionalist,” “Now, if in my state, I find that we have said Cruz, “and under the constitution, a problem -- I mean a real problem; not marriage is a question for the states. …So a case here and a case there, but a real if somebody wants to change the marriage problem where things are coming apart-laws, I don’t think five unelected lawyers of course, we have to do something about down in Washington dictating that. … that,” said Kasich. He did not suggest what If you want to change the marriage laws, kind of “something” he might consider convince your fellow citizens to change but he suggested he would be inclined to the laws.” “Number one, to respect the position of On the other end of the Republican those in the gay community, and secondly, candidates’ political spectrum, at least to try to figure out what you do about as far as it concerns LGBT people, Kasich religious liberty.” was continuing his double mantra of “I’m “But I have to tell you,” concluded for traditional marriage” and “I want no Kasich, “when you get in the middle of discrimination against anybody.” that, there’s no easy answer. So you know At town meeting campaign event April what I kind of think? Let it go. …Respect 11, carried by ABC News, an audience people -- that they are different than we member asked Kasich “As president of are because that’s just the way it is. And to the United States, what would you do to get into these business of ‘I’m not gonna protect our lesbian, gay, bisexual, and serve you because you’re a certain [audio transgender youth?” not clear], c’mon folks. We have to live Kasich acknowledged “what’s together….How about a little bit more happening in North Carolina, what tolerance, a little bit more respect.”

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news national

America’s Top Gay Diplomat Gives Status Report John McDonald

andy Berry, special envoy for the human rights of LGBTI persons, updated reporters on the status of his office’s mission, saying he’s engaged in “challenging conversations with foreign government officials.” Berry, the U.S. State Department’s point man on persons who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex, said those challenging talks centered on discriminatory legislation, stigma and violence. Nearly 80 countries criminalize LGBTI status or conduct, Berry said. Of special danger is Saudi Arabia, which still imposes the death penalty for LGBTI persons. The governments in Nigeria and Russia, Berry said, are moving in a hostile direction by passing draconian laws that “undermine human rights for all people, not just LGBTI individuals.” Berry’s remarks were delivered at a United Nations press conference last week in Geneva, Switzerland.

Now Open

• 4.27.2016

Positive developments, mentioned by Berry, included the decriminalization of adult same-sex behavior by the African country of Mozambique, a meeting with the Secretariat of State at the Vatican and the addition of Argentina as the 12th partner in the Global Equality Fund. The Global Equality Fund, Berry said, is a multi-stakeholder fund to support civil society organizations to advance LGBTI rights. Berry, a foreign service officer since 1993, was appointed to his special envoy position by U.S. President Barack Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry in April of 2015. “I am confident that our collective efforts will help support a world in which everyone is afforded the dignity, the freedom and the equality they rightfully deserve,” Berry said.

4.27.2016 â&#x20AC;¢

CONVICTIONS

Publisher's editorial

RunawaYs on a RoaD to nowheRe Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

rove by the beach on the way to work today. Nice breeze, blue oceans, clear skies, and beautiful hotels now gracing the skyline of Fort Lauderdale. But what I am overlooking? This week, SFGN correspondent Christiana Lilly has a featured piece on a new documentary, “A Road to Home,” taking a look at LGBT homelessness. Sadly, it’s a story that has been told year in and year out, for decades and decades. Years ago, South Florida beaches were populated with runaway kids, living in bushes with no place to go. The story drew national attention. In the 1970s, Geraldo Rivera even did a national feature on ABC’s ‘Nightline’ about homeless youth in Fort Lauderdale. WSVN Television, even a powerhouse back then, won a Green Eyeshades Award for outstanding journalism by featuring an outstanding segment on the issue, put together by Carmel Cafiero, today still a top journalist and consumer affairs reporter. It illuminated the truth that many of the runaways were homosexual youths staying alive by selling their bodies on street corners. Congressman Alcee Hastings, even then a progressive juvenile court judge, conducted public hearings in the Broward County Courthouse, coordinated with child advocacy groups, in order to get a handle on the problem,

and expose it to public review. Community leaders- happy to say I was one of them- came together to fight for a runaway shelter on the Fort Lauderdale Beach. Though there was lots of opposition from local businesses afraid the sharks would scare off tourists, we got our way. Eventually, Covenant House opened for runaway youths on the Fort Lauderdale Beach. Today, their facility still stands under the shadow of new and spectacular rising hotels. The beach survived. Many kids have not. The sun that tans also burns. Kids that cruise the beach often wind up not on surfboards, but wandering aimlessly with no purpose. Many LGBT youth find themselves so situated. It is not a pretty picture. For them, the beach is full of blisters not sunbathers. The problems we faced yesterday we face again today. As Joni Mitchell says in her song, ‘life is a circle game, and the seasons, they go round and round.’ Sometimes, the sun blinds you to what is really happening, but the issues of teenage prostitution, homelessness, and runaways are recurring. We simply provide salve on the wounds. There is always more to be done. To its credit, this week, the National LGBTQ Task Force and the True Colors Fund launched a collaborative resource for advocates working to support LGBT youth experiencing homelessness. “At the Intersections,” is a new online resource guide written by 47 contributors. It is

The problems we faced yesterday we face again today.

• 4.27.2016

a comprehensive guide for advocates, policy makers, service providers, and funders working to end homelessness among LGBT youth. The first-of-its-kind online publication highlights innovative approaches to supporting youth experiencing homelessness, provides case studies of replicable and successful models, as well as concrete solutions to ending LGBT youth homelessness. “Close to 40 percent of youth that experience homelessness identify as LGBTQ,” said Meghan Maury, National LGBTQ Task Force’s Criminal and Economic Justice Project Director. “There are many factors that contribute to LGBTQ youth homelessness, including family rejection, abuse, aging out of foster care, economic hardship, bullying and school harassment,” she added. Our beach is beautiful. Palm trees sway back and forth in the breeze, but so too do lives hang in the balance for homeless LGBT youth. In a month or so, hundreds of thousands of tourists and South Florida residents will crowd the beach for our spectacular air and sea show. It’s an amazing visual tour of American power and might. As we are looking up

at the stars and stripes, we can’t forget about all those people still stuck in spider webs here on the sands, where every turn becomes another trap. Let’s not worry so much about trade deals with China. Let’s worry about getting America’s children security and safety here at home. Find some time to watch the documentary ‘A Road to Home’ this week. The film recently won the monthly film contest at the Miami Independent Film Festival. It’s not just a film, though. It’s about life, full of scars and strife, and maybe on the side of the shore we don’t always see.

editorial Cartoon

by andy marlette

4.27.2016 â&#x20AC;¢

transforming gender

CONVICTIONS

Changing the naRRative Trans United Fund launches to give Trans people a voice

Rebecca Juro

rjuroshow@gmail.com

t was a very different world for the national trans equality movement when I came out in 1997, and it wasn’t just about media or politics. Trans people of my generation who were politically active understood that socially, politically, and culturally, we were virtually invisible as a minority interest. The disadvantages of that reality were obvious, but there were advantages as well. Bob Dylan was right: When you’ve got nothing, you’ve nothing got to lose. Our political organizations and activists struggled to be heard in a cultural and political environment that really didn’t consider us relevant or worth fighting for. Pretty much everything was organized online, with only the end results of that organizing taking place in the oﬄine world. Sometimes, I really miss those days. Today, it’s not so easy. We can’t operate like that anymore, and for good reason. It’s now almost a generation later, and after a lot of hard work the trans community is in a different place. We’re political players now. Politicians legislate with us in mind. When trans people speak, at least some people who matter actually listen.

When we’re attacked and mistreated, at least some people care and even take action. Of course, there’s a dark side to all this progress, too. We’ve become political targets. With same-sex marriage now the law of the land, a significant portion of those who once formed the LGBT community donor base have abandoned the working class, with trans people in particular left behind to take the brunt of bigoted rightwing attacks. Despite all that progress, in some ways very little has changed. Many wealthy cisgender gays and lesbians who feel they now have what they need and can buy their way out of any remaining discrimination they may face apparently feel little or no inclination to support those in our community’s working class who are still fighting for fair and equal treatment. Even before Obergefell, it’s a story we’ve seen play out over and over in states like New Hampshire, Connecticut, and even New York. Finally, a new national organization has surfaced to help break this cycle. Enter the Trans United Fund, a new 501(c)(4), formed in the wake of the passage of the virulently antitrans Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act which is now the law in North Carolina, aims

Despite all that progress, in some ways very little has changed.

• 4.27.2016

to get trans people involved in the political process as well as endorse candidates who support the equality and fair treatment of trans people and initiatives of importance to trans people dealing with issues such as homelessness, anti-trans violence, HIVAIDS, and the treatment of trans people in immigrant detention. This organization will be staffed and run entirely by trans people, and focused exclusively on trans people and relevant issues, setting it apart from the vast majority of previous transgender advocacy efforts. With the singular exception of the National Transgender Advocacy Coalition, which focuses on federal issues and public education, the Trans United Fund is the only organization of national scope that focuses exclusively on the trans community and the only one run exclusively by trans people, by our community for our community. While that last point may seem a bit petty to some, it matters. Too often in the past, efforts at promoting the interests of trans people by organizations with a broader LGBT focus like the Human Rights Campaign or

the Empire State Pride Agenda have ended up underserved and underfunded as issues on the wish list of wealthy gay donors have been given precedence over those of the trans community. Hayden Mora, one of the leaders of the Trans United Fund, told us “Trans United Fund includes one of the most diverse arrays of Trans leaders assembled for any national organization including the likes of NTAC veteran Monica Roberts, CEO and President of the Trans Latina Coalition Bamby Salcedo, longtime political operative Andrea Jenkins, military veteran Brynn Tannehill and others.” “More and more, we’ve heard from major organizations that they care about our lives, as we step into this new moment, now is the time we need them to make good on that commitment.” added trans immigration activist Bamby Salcedo. A new organization, created to help lead a new generation of trans advocacy. The cause is right, the people are right, and the timing is downright perfect. It’s time to put aside the acrimony of the past, unite as a community, and finally get the job done.

Rebecca Juro is a nationally-published freelance journalist and radio talk show host who is the Media Correspondent for The Advocate website. Her work has appeared in the Huffington Post, the Washington Blade, Gay City News, the Albany Times Union, and The Advocate magazine, among others. Rebecca lives in central New Jersey and shares her life with a somewhat antisocial cat. Email: rjuroshow@gmail.com Twitter: @beckyjuro

community announcement

the big gReen ‘x’

Joe Imbrogno

f you haven’t noticed, The Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce’s Gay and Lesbian Business Exchange Council (GLBX) has a new logo. It builds on the “parent” logo of the overall Chamber maintaining the general theme by using the same colors and complementary fonts. In fact, the distinguishing elements of the GLBX Council were simply added to the base logo without tainting the original or detracting from it. Like every good logo, our goal with the new GLBX emblem is to ensure it is unique, distinct; memorable, and instantly recognized. We also hope that it is timeless, relevant, versatile, scalable and, most importantly, that it is meaningful! OK, at this point, you might be thinking, “Blah, blah, blah! Who cares?” Fair enough. While all of the above is true, the real depth of the logo is visible only once you look beneath the surface at those things that require a second, third or fourth glance and a little more thought. The GLBX Council is in the midst of a transformation, reinventing itself in 2016 as it evolves to meet the changing needs of our community. With new leadership, a new vision, a new mission, and new goals, the change in the logo is both symbolic and necessary. With a primary focus on bringing people together, on creating bridges between the LGBT community and our allies, it is the Council’s vision to foster an environment that promotes connections, relationships, solutions and, ultimately, business. After all, that’s really what a chamber of commerce is all about. And the new logo perfectly exemplifies that focus. For instance, the words “The All

Inclusive Council” stand on their own in intent and meaning. They also exemplify the welcoming nature of the group and encourage people from all walks of life — whatever their sexual orientation — to engage with the group for the betterment of all. But what about that big green “X” which underpins the overall Chamber’s logo? On a very basic level, it’s simply an element of visual continuity — think Apple, the stylized Playstation “PS,” the Nike swoosh, the Jaguar jaguar, the Starbucks mermaid. Over time, all of these symbols have become synonymous with the brands they represent. No words necessary. They stand on their own. When you see them, you know what they are, what they represent, what emotions they evoke. And so it will be true of our big green “X”! Very bold and visually prominent, this big green “X” also implies a very fundamental connection between the LGBT business community and the Greater Fort Lauderdale community at large. It is a connection that we expect to expand and strengthen, building on the efforts of past GLBX leaders and members. But it doesn’t begin and end there. Perhaps most importantly, this big green “X” further substantiates the all-inclusive nature of the group. Think of Algebra equations. Solve for x. Depending on the equation, x could be anything—two, 10, 1,000 or 423,957. Yes, anything! In our case, x means transgender and straight and me and ... YOU! But don’t stop at our logo. Experience the GLBX for yourself! Join our next event at Seawatch on the Ocean, located at 6002 North Ocean Boulevard on April 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Follow the GLBX on Facebook www.facebook.com/fortlauderdaleglbx/ or contact the GLBX Council Chair, Karen Prescod at Karen@prescodlifeandhealth.com to obtain more information on how to become a member.

4.27.2016 •

Photos Courtesy of Lumiere Productions.

feature documentary

‘A ROAD TO HOME’ New documentary takes a look LGBT youth homelessness

Christiana Lilly

alking to Penn Station to visit family in New Jersey, Cal Skaggs always saw groups of teenagers hanging around. Armed with backpacks and wandering around seemingly aimlessly, Skaggs wondered what their story was. The answer came in 2012 when he saw an interview on a local cable station with Carl Siciliano, the founder of the Ali Forney Center, a homeless shelter for young LGBT people. He explained that New York City alone has more than 40,000 homeless kids -- a large percentage of them are LGBT. Moved by the statistic and the fact that he had walked by these kids so many times, Skaggs, the founder of Lumiere Productions decided to spread the word by making a documentary -- “A Road to Home.” “They come from families that get rid of them,” Skaggs explained. “What drew me to a deeper and deeper immersion in this subject and these people was they’re just like you and me. They have the same needs that we do for love and security.” “A Road to Home” follows the stories of six homeless LGBT teens. Thrown out of their homes, they get by on the streets and utilizing services from the Ali Forney Center, an LGBT homeless shelter. Even though they seem to have

hit rock bottom, Skaggs showcases their resilience and dreams for the future. The documentary recently won the monthly film contest with the Miami Independent Film Festival. It’s now in the running to be a part of the 2017 contest edition. When the filmmaker approached Siciliano about the project, he was skeptical at first -- many people have approached him with ambitious goals to make a documentary. The two met multiple times to go over Skaggs’ vision for the documentary and discuss his past works -- including “With God on Our Side: The Rise of the Religious Right in America,” which received approval from viewers on both sides of the aisle -- Skaggs was able to convince him that he would tell the kids’ stories fairly. “I appreciated the humility of how he allows the subjects of his documentaries to tell their own stories with minimal narration,” Siciliano said. “I believed he had the sensitivity and skill to convey the complexity of the struggles of our young people, and I trusted that he would portray them in terms of their common humanity, rather than objectifying some of the more lurid aspects of youth homelessness.” From there, Skaggs started hanging out at the Ali Forney Center’s drop in locations, as well as where the teens would hang out, such as parks and the pier on the Hudson River.

He would shoot little by little, raising money to fund the project. “Youth is full of scars … it’s been rough in many ways and being gay is the last strike. In other words you’re poor, you’re a person of color, and you’re gay too, and it’s the last strike and you’re out,” Skaggs said of the teens he came across. “They have hopes and dreams just the same way we do, and those dreams and hopes have not been destroyed by having to live on the street or the subway.” He encountered many moving moments talking with and filming the six teens (a seventh had committed to filming, then ran away unexpectedly), but the most was with a young man named Benjamin. After a year of talking with Skaggs, he revealed an experience the filmmaker was surprised he never brought up beforehand. For Siciliano, the film captured the center’s hard times -it lost a lot of federal funding due to the sequestration and a transgender client, Islan Nettles, was beaten to death. “The film does a wonderful job of showing the resilience and hope of our young people in the face of very challenging circumstances, as well as showing the beauty of the work of helping these young people rebuild their lives,” he said.

“Youth is full of scars … it’s been rough in many ways and being gay is the last strike. In other words you’re poor, you’re a person of color, and you’re gay too, and it’s the last strike and you’re out.” - Cal Skaggs

• 4.27.2016

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lifestyle retiring gay

unDeRstanDing the ReaL Cost oF YouR RetiRement PLan Ric Reily

This multi-part series, Retiring Gay, primarily considers the financial steps to successful retirement. However, preparing emotionally for retirement is equally important to a happy, fulfilling and successful retirement. Planning for retirement is your opportunity to reconsider day to day living. Insurance, investments, spending, savings, socializing, residence and many other considerations change. Reaching retirement with a well executed plan makes your transition to a post work life easier and more fulfilling.

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hen it comes to how much you pay in fees in your employer sponsored 401K Plan, the company you work for makes all the difference. Over the course of your 40 year career, you can pay tens of thousands of dollars in fees and reduced earnings, an amount that can be more than double the cost at other companies; all these fees being hidden from view and difficult to discern. Each year, 401K plan participants pay a percentage of their account balance for administrative and investment management fees. As your account balance grows, so do the fees you pay. When starting in your company sponsored retirement plan you will likely pay less than $100 in fees a year while your balance is low, but when your account balance reaches $50,000, annual fees can more than triple. By the time you retire, the fees can be several thousand dollars a year. Some employees may face additional costs, including trading fees, particularly at smaller companies. In addition to all of these fees are the earnings you could have realized had you not been paying so much; because the fees are stripped out of your account balance you lose the opportunity to earn on the amount taken as fees. A typical two-earner household can pay about $150,000 in fees and lost returns over a 40-year career. The highest fees are typically at small companies where managers have less power to negotiate with financial firms that provide 401K plans. In these smaller company plans, average expense ratios are as high as 1.5% and can consume more than $200,000 in savings over the course of 40 years. In contrast, a participant in the Thrift Savings Plan, a 401K style plan for federal employees that charges fees of around 0.03 percent will likely pay less than $10,000 in

fees and lost returns during 40 years of saving. Even plans at large companies may have fees that add up to major expenses. For example, let’s say you work for large Company A while your husband works for small Company B. You are the same age 25, have the same salary $55,000, same annual wage growth 3 percent, and you both put 10 percent your salaries in your employer’s 401K plan each year. After 40 years, you might have an account balance of about $830,000, while your husband would start retirement with a nest egg of about $740,000, $90,000 less. Your husband would have to work an additional five or six years just to catch up. Employees with plans charging high 401K fees aren’t necessarily out of luck. Many plans will have a few low cost options. Participants should review all the plan’s investments to make sure they are getting the most cost effective funds. What some employees fail to realize is that you can save yourself a great deal of money in fees just by picking the right funds in your 401K. New federal rules were recently rolled out that require plan providers to be more transparent about the 401K fees they charge. But the increased fee disclosures have done little to increase awareness among retirement savers. Half of plan participants don’t know how much they pay in annual fees, the same percentage that were in the dark before the increased disclosures went into effect. Many people think that just because they’re not writing a check for their 401K fees they don’t exist. 401K plan providers do all they can to mask the true cost of your retirement plan and it is incumbent upon you to do all you can to know as much as you can to keep more of your savings working for you, not the plan manager.

Missed a week? Don’t worry. Catch up at SFGN.com/RetiringGay to follow the series online. Ric Reily is the author of two books, Money Is The Root Of All - Skip The Debt Habit, and Gregory’s Hero. You can reach him at ricreily@gmail.com

lifestyle tech addict

thRee aPPs You Can hookuP on anD DiDn’t know it Chris Ayala

he list of dating apps has grown

significantly since 2009 when Grindr first made its debut. Then the “Honey, I thought it was an app about making coffee!” lies began. Now, the list of hookup apps is spreading worse than the Macarena craze. But I’ve noticed a trend in these new up-and-cumming (pun intended) apps where it’s becoming more

difficult to just do... a... simple... hookup. Nothing against the men interested in more than sex of course, but this is about skipping the awkward appetizer talk and getting straight to the meaty entree. Here are three apps (both iPhone and Android) that you may not be aware are great for those desirable quickies. But remember... always be safe!

BRO.

Though not intentionally for hookups, this app has worked well for me. The whole premise is centered around making friends and finding “bromance.” Bromance is a term the straight guys made up so they can still flirt with other men and tell their girlfriends it’s perfectly OK to touch another man’s crotch. The graphics interface is done quite well with the red plastic cups from the college drinking game called Beer Pong, where players try to land balls in their drinks (not the kind of balls I thought when I first played). You start the app by logging in with Facebook then you decide what type of “Bro” you are like: Jock Bro, Brogrammer, and Preppy Bro. Yes, these may seem cheesy but I enjoyed that an app attempted to add flavor to the stale repetition of dating UIs. You can fill out more in your bio like body type (Huskular, Jacked, etc) and what you’re looking for (Long-Term Bromance, Whatever Bro, etc). Then the app takes you to a list of locals where you can also see daily men who share similar interests. Even though I assume a lot of these men may be straight, there has been an abundance of them in that questioning phase which I’m glad to answer. Happy hunting, bro!

Tinder.

What sounds like some strange foreign way to cook a steak is actually the popular app called Tinder. Login with your Facebook account and the app does the rest. It uploads your profile pictures from Facebook, then starts you off with a list of local men. What makes this app unique is it’s easy to learn and finds the matches for you, so the more information in your profile... the better. Swipe the picture left if the guy isn’t a match, or swipe right if he is. Doing this repeatedly will eventually find those sexy matches and let the conversation begin. My only gripe was I found it annoying that the app shows men WAY outside of my area, even though location services is turned on. I suggest reading the profile first before you ask “Looking?”

Badoo.

We live in a digital age where advertisements stalk us, just like our High School fag hags. “How do you know you won’t like it unless you try it?” Badoo is a good example of that trying-too-hard persistence, but it doesn’t hurt to make friends. Like the other apps in this list, create a profile and get mingling with the local horny studs. I did like the access to the abundance of common interests because who wants to hookup with someone into Furries and Barbie Collecting? Have fun, but be careful where you touch or it may ask for some money, just like our High School fag hags.

Chris Ayala studied screenwriting and worked in television in Los Angeles before pursing his dream of writing novels. He currently resides in Fort Lauderdale where he’s published two series: the fantasy saga “The Last Days” and the gay concentration camp novella “Confinement.” 4.27.2016 •

feature personal stories

Personal Stories Project

Christiana Lilly

ne group is using the power of storytelling in the battle for LGBT equality. For just over two years, the Personal Stories Project has been a place for LGBT people to share their stories, good and bad, to show that LGBT people are just that -- people. “I’m a strong believer in the power of the personal story,” said Charles Chan Massey, co-founder and executive director. “Stories can change hearts and minds. Stories can start wars. Or stop them. Stories can change lives. I know this to be true because they’ve changed mine.” On the group’s site, people can read the first-person accounts of coming out, the ups and downs of teenage years, finding love, and LGBT allies showing support for loved ones. The beginnings of the Personal Stories Project can be traced to two moments. One, when Chan Massey watched a video telling the story of a man’s death and how his partner had no rights, since they were not recognized as a couple in the eyes of the law -- he realized how “sick and tired” he was of being treated like a “second-class citizen,” and he also questioned what could happen to him and his own partner should either of them pass.

• 4.27.2016

Share yours today

The second incident was when a friend’s daughter messaged him on Facebook, telling him how good it made her feel when she came out to her mother, who told her about Chan Massey. “It still took [my mom] a while to become okay with me being gay but I feel like if she hadn’t known you, she would still be holding back to this day,” her message read. These two experiences moved him and showed him how powerful LGBT people telling their stories could impact somebody. In December 2013, Chan Massey founded the Personal Stories Project with friend, Sara Stevenson Christie. The group reached out to friends to share their stories of coming out, what LGBT groups they were involved in, how their family reacted, and and call to action of how others could help. Allies and parents of LGBT children also shared their own stories of loving an LGBT person. An 18-year-old high school student, Morgan, shared how she was shunned by her community when she decorated her locker in support of gay marriage. Chan Massey has shared his own story as well, growing up as a gay man in the South without any LGBT role models and only hearing negative things about people who were

out. In fact, he remembers watching television with his grandmother at age 12 when a gay character came on the screen. “My grandmother got up, walked over to the TV -- we didn’t have remote controls in those days -- and changed the channel,” he remembered. “I can’t be sure, but I’d say that experience pushed me further into the closet for a while. Even if I didn’t exactly know what it meant to be gay at the time, I knew there was something different about me and that reaction to a television character made me feel that whatever it was I was bad.” After two years of sharing stories, the Personal Stories Project officially received its nonprofit status. “It’s a documented fact that personal stories helped Justice Kennedy make his decision in the Obergefell v. Hodges marriage equality case,” Chan Massey said. “In his opinion, he said that we deserved equal dignity in the eyes of the law and that the constitution grants us that right. It was because of personal stories that he was able to form that opinion.” Want to share your story? Visit PersonalStoriesProject.org.

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4.27.2016 â&#x20AC;¢

lifestyle photos

J.R. Davis

miami beaCh gaY PRiDe a CeLebRation oF aCComPLishments both Past anD PResent

To see more photos, visit SFGN on Facebook!

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lifestyle books

souL seRenaDe by Rashod Ollison

Terry Schlichenmeyer

inyl is making a comeback. $25.95 / $30.00 Canada Those are five words that put a smile on a music aficionado’s face. A CD isn’t 230 pages the same, they say. An MP3 is nowhere near as good. You don’t get the right sound unless c.2016, Beacon Press you’re spinning a record, so vinyl is coming back – but, for people like Rashod Ollison in ignore that he was gay. “Soul Serenade,” it never really left. School, by then, had joined music as a There was once a time when “Dusty” thing of refuge; Ollison excelled at his lessons, Ollison’s parents were happy. achieved good grades, made friends, and He knows it’s true; he has evidence of it, in expanded his playlist. As he grew, he also the form of a picture taken at the beginning of their marriage, which lasted thirteen wondered about his father sometimes but was years. When they split, he was old enough to largely indifferent, even as the man lay dying. And then an aunt told Ollison something witness but too young to understand, having that made him change his tune. become inured to the fights, the cheating, “Soul Serenade” starts where many good and the drinking at his home near Hot memoirs do: with a faded Springs, Arkansas. picture of a time that barely After Ollison’s father ﬂed seems possible. From there, his family – leaving Ollison’s we’re surprised by a death mother with a ‘tween and He denied that promises to taint much of two small children – he rarely what’s to come, all wrapped in feminine returned. But he left a gift family lore. behind: stacks of vinyl. gestures But don’t get complacent. Ollison says he remembers and a Author Rashod Ollison doesn’t poking around music stores allow any lingering. Soon with his father, ogling covers, tender enough, his story becomes eager for approval of his heart. angry yelling, a smack upside taste in performers. Chaka the head, profanity, TV-asKhan, Bobby Womack, Stevie babysitter, fists and sore Wonder, Ollison recalls feet. We’re taken from neighborhood to fascination with their record labels spinning on the turntable. Michael Jackson gave him neighborhood as the lights are shut off, the comfort, Aretha was a mood barometer, they rent isn’t paid, and he’s taunted with words all taught him about grown-up love through that his sister has to explain. It’s chaos – but lyrics. With his mother working two full-time it’s also a darn good tale that it doesn’t dissolve jobs to keep food on the table, Ollison counted into whining or poor-me-ing, testament to on music to anchor him. It was his means of Ollison’s storytelling skills. “Soul Serenade” is one of those books that escape as his oldest sister took her rage out on sticks in your brain – not only for the suggested him, as his family moved repeatedly, as he was music, but because the memoir itself leaves its bullied in school for “actin’ like a woman.” He denied feminine gestures and a tender mark. And if that sounds like solid gold to you, heart, but by age thirteen, he could no longer then give this book a spin.

• 4.27.2016

4.27.2016 â&#x20AC;¢

lifestyle food

Photos: Facebook

Bona 2468 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors (954) 565-7222 bonaitalianrestaurant.com

Rick Karlin

a bona-FieD LanDmaRk

ona, the Italian restaurant that has Italian combo, tuna and provolone and just been perched near the north end about any combination of meat and cheese of Wilton Drive since 1979, isn’t you can imagine a fancy place, and that’s Lunch specials, many perfectly fine by me. Don’t classic pasta dishes such as get me wrong, I like upscale baked ziti, lasagna, stuffed gourmet Italian as much as Who doesn’t like shells, manicotti (both with the next Guiseppi, but there a choice of cheese or spinach an afternoon stuffing) and spaghetti, are times when you want to have a relaxed evening, are served with a choice of delight with familiar dishes without soup or salad and priced featuring a nice less than $10. Eggplant and breaking the bank. If that’s what you’re looking for, then piece of meat? chicken parm entrees are it’s time to get Bona-fied! a tad more, but both come Stop in at lunch-time with pasta as well. For your for a real bargain. Who first course, your best bet doesn’t like an afternoon delight featuring is the soup – fresh and made in house. The a nice piece of meat? If you’re looking for salads are rather lackluster, and every time something to grab with both hands, the subs I’ve visited, they seemed to have been in the and Stromboli are all amply portioned (and fridge about a day too long. The meals come if you don’t want meat, there are vegetarian with Bona’s amazing garlic rolls, although if options). For a hot sub, consider the you’re headed back to work, ask for the rolls meatball, veal, chicken, eggplant or sausage without garlic-they’re so good you won’t parm, steak and onions with provolone or miss it. a Cajun chicken. Cold options include an At dinner the starter options are more

• 4.27.2016

plentiful, featuring; eggplant rollatini, fried calamari and mussels marinara as well as Caesar and antipasto salads. To tell you the truth, portions are big here and all dinners come with a choice of soup or salad, so I never order appetizers. The same goes for dessert, and I still end up taking home more than enough for a second meal. For dinner service, you’ll find just about every classic Italian-American pasta variation possible on the menu, all available with the addition of meatballs, sausage or grilled chicken. Deciding to be adventurous, a friend recently ordered the boneless chicken breast; sauteed in white wine with spinach onions and mushrooms. The dish was pleasant tasting and the food fresh, but it was marred by the fact that it was standing in a pool of water. When we pointed this out to the server, she responded with, “Oh that’s not water it’s the wine sauce.” Since we were pressed for time, he let it go. We tasted the liquid on his plate and let me tell you, even Jesus couldn’t have turned that much water into wine sauce.

And that brings me to my major complaints about Bona, the unpolished service and lack of ambiance. Look, I don’t expect the kind of service you’d get at a fine dining restaurant, but when a diner shows you a dish swimming in water, you apologize and take it back to the kitchen. Even if they had just poured the water off and re-plated the dish that would have been an improvement. Don’t get me wrong, the servers are friendly, just not as efficient or polished as they should be. The same goes for the ambiance in the dining room. It’s perfectly fine, but without warmth, character. It’s just not as polished as it could be. It lacks the charm that makes a good neighborhood restaurant into a fantastic one. I dine at Bona because it’s cheap and convenient, especially when I’m going to Island City Stage around the corner, but in a town with dozens of other places competing for your business, you’ve got to step things up a notch.

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4/28

history The World AIDS Museum and Educational Center hosts the opening night reception for “Saving Grace: A Multimedia Exhibit Confronting the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in the Black Community,” tonight at 6:30 p.m. at the Old Dillard Museum, 1009 NW 4th St. in Fort Lauderdale. Five leaders of the local black HIV/AIDS community will also be honored at the reception. $5 donation requested. Info at WorldAIDSMuseum.org.

FRI

4/29

concert The Master Chorale of South Florida, under the direction of Brett Karlin, performs Franz Joseph Haydn’s masterpiece, the “Lord Nelson” Mass, tonight at 8 p.m. at Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church, 5555 N. Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. The performance will also be repeated Saturday in Miami and Sunday in Boca Raton. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door at MasterChoraleofSouthFlorida.org.

What if homosexuality was the norm in society and heterosexuality was treated as a sin? That’s the premises behind “Love Is All You Need,” one of the featured films at the MiFo LGBT Film Festival, closing this weekend in Miami Beach. Submitted photo.

SAT

4/30 SUN

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film

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Head to the Albion Hotel, 1650 James Ave. in Miami Beach, tonight at 9:30 p.m. for the MiFo LGBT Film Festival closing party after the screening of “Love is All You Need” at 7:30 p.m. at the Colony Theater, 1040 Lincoln Road. Meet the filmmakers and actors and enjoy music and light bites. The festival, one of the largest in the country, closes on Sunday, May 1. For tickets and a full festival schedule, go to MiFoFilm.com.

“Familiars,” an exhibition of the evocative contemporary paintings of Jean-Paul Mallozzi, is currently on display at the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood, 1650 Harrison St. in Hollywood. Mallozi, who was born and raised in Queens, New York, explores the broad spectrum of the human condition while revealing the concept that emotions are amorphous, emitting color. More info at JeanPaulMallozzi.com.

The Miller Center, 5202 University Drive on the campus of the University of Miami, and GableStage host a special reading from Andre SchwarzBart’s moving novel, “The Last of the Just.” The award-winning book, published in 1959, follows the men of the Levy family over eight centuries, culminating with the death of the last in the holocaust. The reading begins at 7:30 p.m. More info at Miami.edu/ Miller-Center.

The Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors, hosts “Hear their Stories: Learning for LGBT Seniors’ Life Experiences,” tonight at 7 p.m. in the main hall. The event, cosponsored by SAGE and Our Fund, will include eight videos featuring lessons of resilience, strength and hope. The interactive session combines digital storytelling with a compelling panel discussion. More info at PrideCenterFlorida.org.

• 4.27.2016

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a&e television

bRavo sets saiL again, Dishing uP DRama, Lgbt Cast membeR J.W. Arnold Jen Riservato is one of the new cast members embarking on Bravo’s “Below Deck Mediterranean” next Tuesday.

Credit: Bravo.

ravo’s unscripted series, “Below Deck” sets sail again next week with new and returning crew and an itinerary that promises plenty of drama on the high seas. Joining the crew is Jen Riservato, an openly gay deck hand, who has spent plenty of time in South Florida in between her tours of duty on the yachts of the megawealthy. The native New Yorker promises a thrilling season for dedicated viewers of the series. “Oh, God, it’s pretty exciting,” said the 28-year-old about the seven week gig. “Living with people on a yacht is like living with people in a trailer, it’s stressful.” Riservato admitted that the latest season, set in the Mediterranean Sea, will not disappoint. “There are a few things that we’ve all done that we’re not proud of, whether it’s a fight or we got pissed off at someone,” she said. For Riservato, who as a deck hand is working in a job traditionally held by men, there was an added challenge—she was the only LGBT crewmember on the luxury yacht. “I wouldn’t say it’s hard because the people in the yachting industry are pretty open minded, but I don’t see that many gays and lesbians,” she explained. “I was pretty out from day one, but I’ll just leave it at that.” Riservato was tight-lipped about any sparks that might ﬂy during the upcoming season. “There’s romance on the show, but I didn’t tell you that,” she said with a slight chuckle. Like viewers, she’s eagerly waiting to see what scenes survived the editing room. Riservato would even consider filming another season. “I’d definitely consider another season, but for now I’m taking a little break,” she said. The only returning cast member from the previous seasons in the Caribbean is chef Ben Robinson. Viewers remember when he was called in last season following a feud between chief steward Kate Chastain and chef Leon Walker that ended when Walker abruptly stormed off the boat. “I had been in touch with Kate, who made it clear the relationship was tumultuous,” he recalled.

Robinson was pleased to be cast in the new series and feels “Below Deck Mediterranean” is the best yet. “I was the veteran and, with that, I think that it kind of empowered me and I became more responsible in terms of having crew members under my wings. I liked that position. I like being the mediator and trying to instill confidence in people,” he explained. The centrally-located ship’s galley is a natural place for the drama to “cook.” “It doesn’t differ with many households where the kitchen is the hearth of the household. The action and the smells are very alluring, but I would also say, locationally, the kitchen is in the middle of the boat with proximity to the crew quarters,” said Robinson. “That’s how I lure them into the kitchen.” Robinson, who is home again in Fort Lauderdale, is currently operating his own catering company and cooking for a variety of private events across the country thanks to his new fame. He’s also eyeing other opportunities to return to television. “I’ve spoken to my peers and my producers and everyone feels my place should be on television, whether it’s an entirely new spinoff away from the boat or my own cooking show,” the 30-year-old said.

“Below Deck Mediterranean” premieres on Tuesday, May 3 at 9 p.m. EDT on Bravo. Check local listings for channels.

• 4.27.2016

a&e theater

Submitted photo.

Playwright David Dillon

two DeCaDes LateR, PLaY stiLL sPeaks to Lgbt Lives J.W. Arnold

t’s been two decades since the Off Broadway premiere of David Dillon’s play, “Party,” but the story about a group of gay friends still rings true. Dillon, who was active as a director at that time in Chicago, had been looking for a new gay-themed play. “All of the plays that were out there dealt with the dark side of being gay—death, AIDS, homophobia, bashing,” he recalled. “I thought, wow, is this really the perspective these writers have on gay life?” In 1992, the LGBT community had begun emerging from “a horribly dark decade,” Dillon admitted. Sex had changed from “a celebration into something that was dangerous. Never before had sex and death been so closely related.” The playwright decided to draft his own story based on his own circle of friends, absent the homosexual self-loathing of Mart Crowley’s “Boys in the Band” or the sobering view of gay life in the era of AIDS portrayed in Terence McNally’s “Love! Valor! Compassion!” “My friends were well-adjusted, happy people. I wanted to show the ﬂip side of what everybody else was writing about,” he said. “The kinds of problems we faced were human problems, not gay problems.” Dillon came up with a story about a party attended by six middle-class gay men. They discuss show tunes and sex until a variation on the game, “Truth or Dare,” has them slowly removing articles of clothing. They ultimately reveal not only their bodies, but deep-seated

feelings of love, lust, guilt and regret. At the time, The Advocate called the play “one of the most uplifting and affirming representations of gay life on any stage ever.” The play will receive its first production in more than 13 years this spring at Empire Stage in Fort Lauderdale. “I think now it’s a bit of a period piece. I didn’t realize it at the time, but (the play) was firmly rooted in the early ‘90s. I actually stopped approving productions in 2003,” Dillon said. He added, “Not enough time had passed for it to ring true. It’s not so much that there are events in the play that are specific to the time, but it’s very much a sensibility of a place in history.” Last fall, Dillon pulled the play out for a reading and realized the time was finally right. Coincidentally, fellow playwright Ronnie Larsen (“Making Porn”) approached him about reviving the show in South Florida. “I’m actually excited about the collaboration,” said Dillon. “Ronnie saw the original production and there’s something for me about the fact that here we are so many years later and Ronnie is passionate about doing it.” Larsen tapped Los Angeles-based director and actor Nic Arnzen, who performed in the original production, to direct his new production with a cast of local actors. “We have a very strong history and I know Nic gets it,” said Dillon. “I have all the faith in the world with him. I don’t have to be there looking over his shoulder.”

David Dillon’s “Party” will be presented May 6 - June 12 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Drive in Fort Lauderdale. Show times are Wednesdays through Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 for general admission and $50 for preferred seating at RonnieLarsen.com. 4.27.2016 •

aPR. 27 to maY. 3

Datebook

Theater Christiana Lilly

Calendar@SFGN.com

top

Picks

Them Beaux

April 29 to May 13 at the Miami Theater Center, 9806 NE Second Ave. in Miami Shores. A reinterpretation of “The Beaux,” a play set in the Deep South with con men, hijinks, love, and deception. Tickets $25. Call 305751-9550 or visit MTCMiami.org.

A Kid Like Jake

Through May 1 at the Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. in Lake Worth. As Alex and Greg wait to find out if their son, Jake, is accepted into a Manhattan private school, they become concerned with his behavior as he becomes more obsessed with dressing up and princesses. Tickets $20. All 561-586-6410 or visit LakeWorthPlayhouse.org.

The Submission

Through May 8 at Island City Stage, 2304 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Danny, a gay playwright, is elated that his play is chosen to be performed at a festival -- but he turned it in under the pen name of a black woman. He hires a black actress to fill in for him, but it only makes things more complicated. Tickets $35. Call 954-519-2533 or visit IslandCityStage.org.

* Denotes New Listing

broward county

* Frank Caliendo

April 28 at 8 p.m. at Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. The comedian is known for her impressions, from George W. Bush and Bill Clinton to John Madden and Jim Rome. Tickets $37.50 to $47.50. Call 954-462-0222 or visit ParkerPlayhouse.com.

* Chris Isaak

April 29 to 30 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. You know him for “Wicked Game,” now hear music from “First Comes the Night,” his newest album in six years. Tickets $45 to $120. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

• 4.27.2016

* The Blind Boys of Alabama and Mavis Staples

May 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Gospel singer Mavis Staples opens the show for the Blind Boys of Alabama to perform spiritual songs from across time. Tickets $50 to $125. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

Friday Night Sound Waves Music Series

Fridays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Hub, Las Olas Boulevard and A1A in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy live, outdoor music spanning genres and tributes every Friday evening through November. Free. Visit FridayNightSoundWaves.com

palm beach county * The Navy Band Southeast Wind Ensemble

May 1 at 7 p.m. at the Sunset Cove Amphitheater at Burt Aaronson South County Regional Park, 20405 Amphitheater Circle at Boca Raton. The 25-piece ensemble performs Broadway tunes, patriotic music, classical pieces, and more. Free. Visit Facebook.com/ SunsetCoveAmphitheater.

comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn chair every week, for free! Call 561-2437922 or visit DelrayArts.org.

miami-dade county * The Smashing Pumpkins In Plainsong

May 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Aventura Center, 3385 NE 188th St. in Aventura. The band hits the road with Liz Phair. Tickets $49.50 to $325. Call 305-466-8002 or visit AventuraCenter.org.

* The Last of the Just

May 2 at 7:30 p.m. at UM’s Miller Center Auditorium, 5202 University Drive Merrick 119 in Coral Gables. A reading from “The Last of the Just,” a book chronicling a family of “just men” and ending with the last, killed in Auschwitz, in honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day. Free. Visit GableStage.org.

* Don Pasquale

May 7 to 14 at the Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Don Pasquale fears that his nephew Ernesto will steal his fortune, so he seeks to find a woman to marry, which only causes his problems to get worse. Tickets $25 to $229. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

The Bridges of Madison County -- The Musical Roof! Through May 1 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts,701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Based on the book by Robert James Waller, Francesca Johnson leads a mundane life as a housewife in Iowa until she meets traveling photographer, Robert Kincaid. Tickets $27 and up. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

Through May 8 at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211 St. in Cutler Bay. Vic and Adam throw a

rooftop party, which brings a host of odd characters. Tickets $41. Call 786-573-5300 or visit SMDCAC.org.

The Hammer Trinity

Through May 8 at the Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Casper Kent discovers he is in line to the throne and must defend the precious hammer from pirates. The three-part play is performed over 6.5 hours. Tickets $150. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

* Stage Kiss

Through May 15 at Main Street Players, 6766 Main St. in Miami Lakes. Former lovers, She and He head back into show business after a two-decade hiatus and, unbeknownst to them, are cast in the leading roles. Tickets $25. Call 305-5583737 or visit MainStreetPlayers.com.

PAMM Outdoor Music Series

Third Thursdays at the Perez Art Museum Miami, 101 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Come out for live music from DJs and musicians by the bay. Drink specials available. Free with museum admission. Call 305-3753000 or visit PAMM.org.

The Big Show

Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. at Just the Funny Theater, 3119 Coral Way in Miami. A collection of comedy mixing the likes of improvisation and sketches. Tickets $12. Call 305-693-8669 or visit JustTheFunny. com.

* Gyorgy Lakatos, the Gypsy Guitar King

May 5 at 7 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The Hungarian guitar virtuoso performs his own works from the “Back to the Roots” tour. Tickets $35. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

* Short Cuts 6

May 6 to 15 at Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail in Boca Raton. Enjoy eight, 10-minute shorts from the best South Florida playwrights. Tickets $25. Call 561-347-3948 or visit WillowTheatre.org.

Free Friday Concerts

Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Enjoy live music from the

Photo: Facebook

The Submission Through May 8 at Island City Stage, 2304 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors.

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Top Picks Young Professionals Brewery Night

April 28 at 9 p.m. at The Fieldhouse at Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Enjoy specialty brews and music from Hillside Spirit Revival. Tickets $10. Call 561-2437922 or visit OldSchoolSquare.org.

The Underline Club

Cycling

May 1 at 10 a.m. at the Coconut Grove Metrorail Station, 2780 SW 27th Ave. in Coconut Grove. Cyclists 12 and older are invited to ride the Underline from Coconut Grove to Dadeland North. Free. Visit TheUnderline.org.

Hear Their Stories: Learning From LGBT Seniors’ Life Experience

May 3 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Seniors share their stories with SAGE USA’s digital history project. Free. Call Christopher Matthews at 954-463-9005, ext. 113 or visit PrideCenterFlorida.org.

broward county

* March for Babies Annual Walk

April 30 at 7 a.m. at Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave. in Davie. Join the walk to raise money for the March of Dimes, which supports prenatal wellness programs, research grants, support programs, and advocacy efforts for stronger, healthier babies. Free. Visit MarchofDimes.org/Florida.

* Pet Project Block Party

April 30 from 2 to 7 p.m. from 1206 to 1214 NE Fourth Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy a day filled with art, music, beer and more with local businesses. Bring your pup! Purchases benefit the Pet Project.

Here & Now: Queer Geographies in Contemporary Photography

Through May 1 at Stonewall National Museum - Wilton Manors Gallery, 2157

• 4.27.2016

Broward Support Services

aPR. 27 to maY. 3

Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at SunServe Campus, 1480 SW Ninth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. A group for LGBT youth 13 to 21 to discuss gender, gender expression, binary systems, friendship, family and whatever else comes up! Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com

PFLAG Tuesdays in Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs and Southwest Ranches. A support group for parents of LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and locations.

GayWrites Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. at the Stonewall Library, 1300 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. Come join us and write your memoir, poem, blog, novel or short story. Free. Email Jay Asher at ijasher@aol.com.

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

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

Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Three photographers explore the life of LGBT people across the United States and how this generation is redefining itself. Free. Visit Stonewall-Museum.org.

The Art of Tyce Marshall

Through May 6 at Art Gallery 21 at the Woman’s Club of Wilton Manors, 600 NE 21st Court in Wilton Manors. Experience the work of Tyce Marshall, inspired by seascapes, as well as the artwork of artists Mark Baker, Patti Maceri, Pamela Moloboado, Carl Phillips and Pat Wahl. Free. Call 954-661-4740 or visit ArtGallery21.org.

LGBT Senior Competency 101

Cultural

May 19, and June 15 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Learn how your business can better serve the LGBT senior

community during one of these classes, with options to book a longer session for staff. RSVP to Bruce Williams at 954463-9005, ext. 109 or email BWilliams@ PrideCenterFlorida.org.

* Proud Speakers

Mondays from 7:15 to 9 p.m. at The Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Join the Toastmasters to work on your communication and leadership skills. Call Jose Antigua at 954-594-0634 or visit 2266.toastmastersclubs.org.

palm beach county *Silent Disco

First Thursdays at 9 p.m. at The Fieldhouse at Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Dance to music by the DJ through wireless headphones for a unique night out. Tickets $20. Call 561-243-7922 or visit OldSchoolSquare.org.

* Food Truck Invasion

Second and fourth Wednesdays at 5 p.m at the Seabreeze Theater at Carlin Park, 400 S. SR A1A in Jupiter. Enjoy a night of food trucks and live music twice a month. Free. Visit Facebook.com/ seabreezeamphitheater.

Transcendence

Meets at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. A closed transgender youth support group for teens ages 12 to 19. For more information, email youth@compassglcc.com.

Zumba Fitness

Mondays at 6 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Get moving with a certificated Zumba instructor for an infusion of exercise and dance moves. Donation of $5 or more. Call 561-324-1626 or visit CompassGLCC.com.

Sober Sisters

Mondays at 6:15 p.m. at Lambda North, 18 S. J St. in Lake Worth. A support and discussion group for female recovering alcoholics. Visit LambdaNorth.net.

Trans Youth Group

First and third Fridays at 5 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. A support group for transgender youth 12 to 19 years old. Email Katherine Murphy at katherine@compassglcc.com.

Jazz on the Palm

Third Fridays from 8 to 10 p.m. at the downtown West Palm Beach waterfront. Relax on the water to the sounds of jazz with the family. Free. Visit WPBGo.com.

miami-dade county * Conservation Conversations: 96 Elephants

May 5 at 7:30 p.m. at SapientNitro offices, 2911 Grand Ave. in Miami. John Calvelli from the Wildlife Conservation Society will discuss the fact that 96 elephants are killed every day. Tickets $10. Visit ZooMiami.org.

Arsht Center Farmers Market

Mondays from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Purchase fresh food from local farmers, including fruits, vegetables, meats, prepared foods, as well as chefs, live music, and cooking demonstrations. Free. Visit ArshtCenter. org/en/Visit/Dining.

Rainbow Circle

Mondays from 6 to 8 p.m. at the University of Miami Flipse Building #302, 5665 Ponce de Leon Drive in Coral Gables. An open discussion about coming out, relationships, peer pressure, bullying, depression and more. Free. Visit Pridelines. org.

Yoga

Tuesdays from 6 to 7:15 p.m. at Jose Marti Park, 362 SW Fourth Ave. in Miami. Yogis 18 and older of all levels are invited to a practice lead by a certified instructor. Bring your own yoga mat, water, and towel. Free. Call 305-358-7550 or visit BayfrontParkMiami.com/Yoga.html.

HIV Support Group

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

Book Study

Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Drolma Kadampa Buddhist Center, 1273 Coral Way in Miami. Buddhist monk, Gen Kelsang Nurbu, will lead classes on learning the foundations of Buddhism. Call 786-5297137.

Capoeira

Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Bayfront Park’s Tina Hills Pavilion, 1075 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Learn the Brazilian art of capoeira, a mix of dance and martial arts, with Mestre Ze Com Fome. Free. Call 305-989-6628 or visit mestrezeomfome.com.

* Denotes New Listing

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Business Directory health

chiropractic COAST CHIROPRACTIC INJURY & WELLNESS CENTER 2608 NE 16th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33334 954.463.3036 www.coast-chiropractic.com

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To place an ad in the Business Directory, call our sales team at 954.530.4970 legal

LAW ROBIN 2550 N Federal Hwy #20, Fort Lauderdale, FL 954.630.2707 Lawrobin.com

professional services BARTON & MILLER CLEANERS 2600 N. Dixie Hwy Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-566-4314 2505 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-566-7621 Kalismcintee.com

investments

STORKS BAKERY 2505 NE 15th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 AMERICAN TAX & INSURANCE 954.567.3220 Levitt Small Ad Gay Publication :Newspaper Ad Cont. 8/17/15 1:56 PM Page 1 WILTON MANORS DENTAL 2929 E Comm. Blvd, 8th Floor Penthouse D, Fort Lauderdale, FL Storksbakery.com 2517 NE 9th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.302.3228 954-564-4746 BEEFCAKES Americantaxandinsurance.com Wiltonmanorsdental.com 1721 N Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 ISLAND CITY DENTAL 954.463.6969 1700 NE 26th Street, Ste. 2, Fort Lauderdale, FL boardwalkbar.com SELZER & WEISS 954-564-7121 1515 NE 25th St, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Islandcitydental.com 954.567.4444 Selzerandweiss.com

legal

EMERALD ELITE 2301 Wilton Drive, Suite 3, Wilton Manors, FL 954.629.1377 Emeraldelitehomehealth.com

The Best Cellar

DR. TORY SULLIVAN 2500 N Federal Hwy #301, Fort Lauderdale, FL 954.533.1520 Torysullivanmd.com THE FLORIDA HOUSE EXPERIENCE 505 S Federal Hwy, Deerﬁeld Beach, FL 33441 800.778.6792 Fherehab.com

SHAWN NEWMAN 710 NE 26th St, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.563.9160 Shawnnewman.com LAW GC 707 NE 3rd Ave #300, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 954.573.1444 Lawgc.com

GREGORY KABEL 1 East Broward Blvd #700, Fort Lauderdale, 33301 954.761.7770 gwkesq@bellsouth.net

Boutique Wine Shop & Wine Bar The Ultimate Wine Tasting Experience Wed., Thurs., Fri., Sat., at 8:00 p.m. ONLY $15 PER PERSON! 954-630-8020

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retail

PEACE PIPE 4800 N Dixie Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 954.267.9005 Facebook.com/peacepipeﬂ DAOUD’S 2473 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 954.928.2437 Daouds.com NATURAL SLEEP 3040 N 29th Ave, Hollywood, FL 33020 954.951.2678 Naturalsleepfd.com

spirituality

The Parish of Sts. Francis and Clare Where we welcome and appreciate diversity.

101 NE 3rd St Fort Lauderdale FL 33301 Mass Times: Saturday 5:00 PM Sunday 10:30 AM Ecumenical Catholic 954.731.8173

www.stsfrancisandclare.org

Have you made your wishes known?

MASTER HYPNOTHERAPIST AND LIFE COACH

1-800-343-5400

www.levitt-weinstein.com

Pre-Arrangement Discounts For All Our LGBT Friends • 4.27.2016

ERNIE'S B-B-Q 1843 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 954-523-8636

1408 N.E. 26th St. Wilton Manors, FL 33334

We’re here to help.

J. MARK’S 1245 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 (954) 390-0770 Jmarksrestaurant.com

KALIS-MCINTEE FUNERAL & CREMATION CENTER

restaurants

health

restaurants

Baptisms • Weddings • Memorial Services

ADDICTIONS • SMOKING • WEIGHT LOSS • INSOMNIA • STRESS REDUCTION • ROAD RAGE • ANGER MANAGEMENT • PAST LIFE ANALYSIS • RELATIONSHIP COACHING Coach Bill For Life

WWW.COACHBILLFORLIFE.COM

954.641.8315

retail ESTATE AUCTION CO. 6 South Federal Hwy, Dania Beach, FL 33304 954-921-2828 Estateauctionco.com

theaters

FT LAUDERDALE GAY MEN'S CHORUS PO Box 9772, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33310-9772 954-832-0060 www.theftlgmc.org ANDREWS LIVING ARTS STUDIO 23 NW 5th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 954.530.1879 Classcreations.com KRAVIS CENTER 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL (561) 832-7469 Kravis.org ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER 1300 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132 305.949.6722 Arshtcenter.org GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA PO Box 39617, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33339 954-763-2266 Gaymenschorusofsouthﬂorida.org

veterinarian

DR. PIERRE B. BLAND, DVM 3225 N. Andrews Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 954-673-8579 Doctorblandvet.com

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Income Tax Preparation •Individual •Small Business •Free Consultation Doug Turner, Enrolled Agent Best Books and Taxes 2201 Wilton Drive bestbooksandtaxes.com

954-565-1041

Call today for appointment For a limited time, choose two free perks for a savings of up to $2150 when you join us on almost any cruise*. CHOOSE YOURS AND GO! Classic Beverage Package

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800-985-5148

Prices are per person, cruise only, for stateroom category 08 for ocean view, select sailings, based on double occupancy. Get Two Value amount based on 12-night sailing with selection of beverage and Internet options. Offer and prices are subject to availability and change without notice, capacity controlled, and not applicable to charters or contracted groups. Refer to celebritycruises.com for additional terms and conditions.

MODERN LUXURY LIVES HERE.

4.27.2016 •

SFGN Classified$ accounting - finance HEALTH & LIFE ADVISING INC - 14 years experience. Guaranteed issue 25K critical illness insurance rates at $36 and $50 including accidental injury coverage. Best rates for life guaranteed, from limited med to full medical underwriting. Term/ROP/ WHOLE/FINAL EXPENSE/ACA HEALTH PLANS WITH SUBSIDIES AVAILABLE. CALL 954-2000140, ask for Brian

attorney

electrician HARRY’S ELECTRIC RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL - Additions, renovations, service upgrades, breaker panels,FPL undergrounds, code violations, A/C wiring, ceiling fans, recessed, security & landscaping, lighting, pools, pumps, Jacuzzis, water heaters, FREE PHONE ESTIMATES 954-522-3357 Lic & Ins. www. harryelectrician.com

To place a Classified Ad, call Cindy Curtis at 954.530.4970 or email at cindy.curtis@sfgn.com

electrician TOP DOG ELECTRIC-QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP AT A FAIR PRICE - Any and all types of electrical work performed by craftsmen who care about their work. 954-533-5005 guy@ topdogelectricﬂ.com www.TopDogElectricFL.com Lic# 97-CME-1724-X

home and garden

POOL SERVICE Mention this ad and receive your ﬁrst month

FREE! some restrictions apply

Place an ad in SFGN’s Classiﬁeds

954.530.4970

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 954-826-9555 for more information.

pool service

COOL POOLS- RELIABLE POOL SERVICE Professional pool service.Covering Wilton Manors, Lighthouse Point, and eastside of Pompano Beach. 15 years experience. Licensed and insured.Free estimates. Call 954-235-0775.

pets/supplies

landscaping MIKE THE GARDENER - Lawn and Garden care. Trim, cut, prune plants and trees, apply mulch, stone and ﬂowers and more. Call Mike at (561)543-6337

Serving Broward Since 1999

Call for a free estimate: 954-367-7007 Web: www.skimmerspools.com Email: skimmerspoolservice@gmail.com

entertainment JAZZ TRIO AVAILABLE - 25% DISCOUNT TO SFGN READERS!!!!!!! - Jazz vocalist with over 30 years experience performing in South Florida is available with her trio for your special event,party or corporate fundraiser.Booking now for the balance of 2016 and into 2017 so reserve today.Recent performances include JAZZ IN THE PINES and WALK ON WEDNESDAY MUSIC SERIES. I work with South Florida’s ﬁnest jazz musicians to make your special affair one to remember. Reasonble rates. 25% Discount when you mention you saw ad in SFGN CLASSIFIEDS.Call Cindy at 954-298-8158. www.myspace.com/cindycurtisandcompany I can’t wait to sing for you!

cleaning

CLEAN IT RIGHT! - The best cleaning for your buck. 1BD $60, 2BD $70, 3BD $80 and up. Excellent rates & references. 10 years in business. Serving Broward, North Miami-Dade & S. Palm Beach. Call Manny 954560-4443

licensed massage AFFORDABLE AWESOME MASSAGE BY JIM Offering Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports and LomiLomi Massage for Men; in a very comfortable, relaxed and Private Massage Studio, NOW conveniently located in Wilton Manors on NE 26th Street, with plenty of free parking. Same Day appointments are welcome; please call Jim, 954-600-5843 email: info@ massagebyjim.com or visit my website for testimonials, rates and more. GREAT OPENING SPECIAL NOW AVAILABLE! www.massagebyjim.com Licensed and Certiﬁed MM22293 INCREDIBLY AWESOME BODY WORK - In-calls at a private studio 15 minutes west of PBIA. Intuitive, experienced licensed massage therapist offers affordable rates 7 days, early to late. ASK ABOUT WEEKLY SPECIALS! Calls only 561-254-8065 for the very best massage experience you can get HANDS DOWN! Call for Spring Specials! #MA51008

sfgn.com help wanted EARN $300+ PER DAY - Activists Needed To Collect signatures to get Medical Marijuana on ballot. Earn $300+ per day. 954-616-7736; 754204-0114 Make own hours. HELP WANTED! - New full service gym located on E. Sunrise Blvd., looking for part time front desk help (Tues & Wed 5am- 10am and 8am-2pm every other Sat &Sun) and fill in as needed. Contact Julian via email julian@stamina1640.com. SEEKING FRONT DESK PERSON FOR DENTAL OFFICE - Looking to hire full time 8-5 front desk person for receptionist, answering phones, filing, making appts. Full time position with benefits and fun, relaxed working atmosphere for the right person. No previous dental experience needed. Willing to train if you have good attitude and work ethic. To apply, email opdentalung@aol.com.

• 4.27.2016

painting

GREGG'S PAINTING - Interior/exterior,great rates, friendliness, reliability, neatness. No job too small. Call Gregg at 617-306-5694 or 954-870-5972.

music lessons VOICE LESSONS & MUSIC THEATRE COACHING - Over 30 years experience. Students have performed on (and off) Broadway, in National & International tours, recorded solo albums & placed in prestigious competitions. www.kreutzmusic.com 617-967-0575

rentals furnished housing *PERFECT RELOCATION RENTALS* 4 WEEK + SPECIAL FROM $425/WEEK -

Intimate 7 unit Liberty Garden Suites offering all the comforts of home. for your Vacation or Temporary Housing Needs. Beautifully Furnished & Fully Equipped Studio & One BR Apts. with Full Kitchens, in lush tropical Gay Resort setting. 5 Min south of Airport in Dania Beach. Central to Haulover Nude Beach & Wilton Manors. Incl. WI-Fi, laundry,private parking, utilities, cable, tel. Gay Owned & Operated. Longer term Monthly rates available for 3 months+ Stays. Pets Always Welcome. Celebrating Our 19th Year. Call Joe or Jack at 954-927-0090 or visit www. LibertySuites.com

rentals MIKE THE RENTAL GUY - NE Lauderdale/Wilton Manors/Oakland/Victoria Park-1/1 from $950 2/1 from $1150. Credit & Income RequirementsPets okay with restriction. Call for Details Mike 561-703-5533

rentals fort lauderdale 1 BEDROOM/1 BA-FURNISHED APT. Spectacular 13th Floor, view of Middle River and Ocean;Newly remodeled, new appliances and furnishings. Secure Building,gated parking,heated pool/BBQ. Free laundry, free cable TV, Rec. room. $1250/month plus F/L/S. 1 year lease. Anthony 619-822-5158;Available May 10th.

folow the action.

sfgn.com

roommates ROOMMATE WANTED - 3bdr, 2.5 bath condo at the Tennis Club. $550 per month all inclusive. Must have job, transportation. No Smokers. Ideal for tennis player. Contact George.Alvan@yahoo.com

Place an ad in SFGN’s Classiﬁeds

954.530.4970

roommates - other GAY WHITE MALE TO SHARE 2 BR/2 BA GATED CONDO - Furnished room, WI-FI, W/D, TV in room, pool, must have steady income and own transportation, 1st-Last $650/month, utilities included, no pets no drugs. Call Zack at 954-4018431 or 954-765-3665

Iris Seymour

4.27.2016 •

Let your ears join the PARTY! Hear every passenger clearly while driving

Hear a single conversation in a noisy restaurant

Take the Test

YES NO

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YES NO

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YES NO

3. Do you often ask people to repeat themselves?

YES NO

4. Do you feel you can hear people but sometimes can’t understand them?

YES NO

5. Are you missing key words while having conversation in a crowded restaurant or at family gatherings?

Imagine zooming into the conversation you want to hear! Join us for a Special In-Office Grand Opening Event

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(954) 793-4348

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Wilton Plaza 1881 NE 26th Street, Suite 223 Wilton Manors, FL 33305 www.acutehearingandbalance.com Concierge services are available upon request.

Risk-Free 30 Day Trial

Daniel Gibbons, Au.D.

NEW775 MS044046

Doctor Daniel Gibbons, Doctor of Audiology, received his Bachelor of Science degree in Hearing and Speech and Language Science from Southern Connecticut State University and his Doctoral Degree in Audiology from Salus University in Philadelphia.

Doctor of Audiology

$300 Value!

Dr. Gibbons holds a Florida State license in Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensing. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Audiology and the Academy of Doctors of Audiology. He is certified to recommend and fit all levels of amplification. Dr. Daniel Gibbons has dedicated his life’s work to meeting the hearing health care needs of all ages. He has a strong interest in treating the adult population with hearing loss. Dr. Gibbons brings a passion and commitment to hearing health care that extends beyond the technology. Patient satisfaction with hearing instruments that fit their lifestyle is his top priority.