SFGN 06/24/21 V12iss25 by South Florida Gay News

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BROWARD SCHOOL BOARD PASSES PROCLAMATION AGAINST ANTI-TRANS ATHLETE LAW

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• 6 . 24 .2021

Publisher • Norm Kent Norm.Kent@sfgn.com

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s attacks continue against transgender athletes, Broward County schools have taken a stance: let them play. On June 15, the Broward County School Board signed a proclamation in opposition to the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis. “Participating in sports provides critical life lessons like teamwork, dedication, and leadership that should be available to all youth including transgender youth,” according to the proclamation, which was brought forward by board member Sarah Leonardi. Earlier in the meeting, critics of the proclamation spoke during public comments. “You’re opposing a law that was passed by the state of Florida House, Senate and then signed by the governor, the same legislative body that represents 11 million voters, many of which are parents,” said Darlene Swaffar, who is running for Congress to represent Florida District 22. “What does the Broward County School Board do? They want to override the Florida legislature, they want to override Florida state law. “You want to oppose fairness. Who opposes fairness? I’ll tell you who opposes fairness. The Broward County School Board does.” With a Bible in hand, activist Chris Nelson spoke before the board asking why the mask mandate had not been lifted in schools, then pivoted to his thoughts on the proclamation. “You’re doing this proclamation for boys to participate in girls’ sports? That is your No. 1 concern, that a senior in high school that’s male can go in the same bathroom as a freshman who’s female? That is disgusting,” he said. “And I call on the parents right now, I call on the parents and I call on the students, be Martin Luther King, be Rosa Parks, take off your mask and if a teacher yells at you, walk out.”

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A transfeminine student and a non-binary femme student. Credit: The Broadly Gender Spectrum Collection, VICE.

He then took off his mask and left the chambers. When the proclamation was discussed by the board later in the evening, Wilton Manors activist Michael Emanuel Rajner spoke in support of it. “This government and legislature have been hellbent on its assault against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, but most importantly they have been targeting with using whatever wackadoodle science that they are using to target transgender young females and it’s absolutely outrageous,” he said. Leonardi also addressed the comments. “I generally subscribe to the belief that I should not respond to craziness, but today is just not that day,” she said. “When people come in here and use words like ‘disgusting’ to refer to trans children and children, I’m going to point out the insanity and bigotry and ignorance of the things that they said. “What I find particularly interesting is that several of those individuals are running for

Congress, but they clearly don’t understand how a proclamation works. It does not override the legislature or the governor, so I would think before running for Congress and coming in here and saying inaccurate things, they should do some research.” Some board members were concerned if the board was allowed to oppose the law without causing legal conflicts. Marylin Batista, interim general counsel for the school board, confirmed that it was simply the board stating its opinion. The Fort Lauderdale City Commission passed a proclamation of its own against the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, but one commissioner voted against it and a second was not present during voting. Later, a local trans woman shared her disappointment in the two commissioners, which resulted in Vice Mayor Heather Moraitis doubling down on her views that trans women have physical advantages over people born biologically female.

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6 . 24 . 20 21 •

LGBTQIA BITES

BY KENNEDY MCKINNEY

IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT THE G Lesbian

MEGAN RAPINOE TO BE NEW CAMPAIGN STAR FOR VICTORIA SECRET Megan Rapinoe, an American professional soccer player, will be a new coverstar and consultant for Victoria Secret, according to the New York Times. The brand is shifting from their infamous “Angel” model group to what they are calling the “VS Collective.” Not only is this a cultural change but also an attempt to bounce back after closing a quarter of VS stores in 2020. Martin Waters, the chief executive officer of VS, said, “We needed to stop being about what men want and to be about what women want.” He continued by saying that “The Angels” are no longer culturally relevant. Rapinoe admits she was uncertain about the project at first but says the old way was “damaging,” particularly to young girls. “As a gay woman, I think a lot about what we think is sexy, and we are afforded the

Megan Rapinoe. Photo via Facebook.

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

‘RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE’ ALUM LAGANJA ESTRANJA COMES OUT AS TRANS

Laganja Estranja, a season six contestant on “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” came out as transgender. Estranja has been working in drag for over 10 years and told Entertainment Weekly that being a drag performer made her identity “more explainable to the masses.” However, she is done being a woman only on stage and wants to be able to express herself at all times. Discovering her gender identity has been a journey and, at times, she tried to fit what society deemed as normal. “But, that isn’t my truth, and I’m daring to take this on. I tried to be male and be inbetween and non-binary. The truth is I’m a feminine entity and I can live this life,” said Estranja. She is not the first RuPaul alum to come out as trans and many of them have helped Estranja on her journey.

EP ability to do that, because I don’t have to wear the traditional sexy thing to be sexy and I don’t think the traditional thing is sexy when it comes to my partner or people I’ve dated,” the Times reported her as saying. Rapinoe is looking forward to this new age of VS and changing the definition of “sexy.”

Transgender

Laganja Estranja. Photo via Facebook.

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“I want to thank all the trans brothers and sisters that came before me who fought so that my coming out could be joyous!” she said on Instagram. “I am so proud to identify as TRANS and to be living my truth. Happy PRIDE, you are beautiful as you are.”

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PUNKIE JOHNSON OPENS UP ABOUT BEING THE FIRST BLACK QUEER WOMAN ON SNL

Punkie Johnson, a comedian from New Orleans, just finished her first season with the long-running sketch show “Saturday Night Live” making her the first out Black queer woman on the show. Before SNL, Johnson appeared on HBO’s “A Black Lady Sketch Show” and Netflix’s “Space Force.” She told NBC News she had to trust “God and the Universe” to make sure comedy was her path. After going through two rounds of taped auditions she received a call from Lorne Michaels, an SNL creator saying, “We think you’ll be a good addition to the cast.” This former bartender and occasional comedian is now on one of the most popular shows on television for a full-fledged career in comedy. Johnson is still reeling from her time on the show and is looking forward to future seasons.

Punkie Johnson. Photo via Facebook.

6 . 24 . 20 21 •

NEWS LOCAL

J.R.’s SNAPSHOTS

OF THE

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

Arts United Board President Chuck Williams and Arts United Board Vice President Dennis Dean presenting artist Ernesto Masis with Best In Show.

Newlyweds Clint and Bryan Wilson, executive director and CEO of Pride Center West Texas.

• 6 . 24 .2021

WEEK Photos by J.R. Davis

Misty Eyez presented the contestants at the annual Mr. and Miss Stonewall 2021 at The Eagle Wilton Manors.

IT Professional Will Portalatin with partner and realtor Mike Trottier.

NEWS STATE

BROWARD JEWISH DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS LAUNCHES LGBT Issues at Forefront of Priorities

John Hayden

n a perfect world politics is about building better communities and looking out for those who are too often overlooked. While Florida politics are far from perfect a new group is working to bring those ideals closer to reality. The Florida Jewish Democratic Caucus, long a political player in Tallahassee, is expanding by opening chapters across the state. The Broward County Democratic Jewish Caucus is setting goals, naming leaders, and forming committees. One of their goals is connecting with the LGBT community. Beau Simon is chair of the LGBT Outreach Committee. “We plan on focusing on issues facing Jewish people within the LGBTQ and how we fit in,” Simon said. Awareness of common struggles and fighting efforts to rollback hard fought victories are key to Simon’s plans. “My agenda is to make sure we protect and promote marriage equality, equal rights, and most importantly educate other members of the caucus and Jewish community on why it is important to recognize and defend members of the LGBTQ community who also identify as Jewish.” Simon hopes his committee and the caucus will work with other local groups to reach common political and community goals. “I plan on having a strong relationship with the Dolphin Democrats and ensuring our partnerships last as long as we both continue

“WE PLAN ON FOCUSING ON ISSUES FACING JEWISH PEOPLE WITHIN THE LGBTQ AND HOW WE FIT IN.” - Beau Simon

CHAIR OF THE LGBT OUTREACH COMMITTEE

Beau Simon, chair of the LGBT Outreach Committee for the Broward Jewish Democratic Caucus. Photo via Facebook.

to be caucuses,” he said. Another goal is defending Israel. “While being home to the Jewish people, it’s also one of the most gay friendly places in the entire world,” Simon said. State Rep. Rick Stark agreed, saying now is the right moment in history to expand the state caucus to local levels. “Rise in anti-Semitism, marginalization of Israel, and the growth of neo-fascism on the right are all part of the reason for us coming together,” Stark said. “This was recognized in particular by members of the Jewish Legislative Caucus Democrats in Tallahassee.” Stark said this caucus will be an ally to many. “This caucus will work with the other caucuses: Black, Hispanic, LGBT, etc. We are stronger together,” he said. “As Democrats, we need to elect people sympathetic to our caucus, but also candidates that reflect the values we commonly hold as Democrats.” The LGBT community had many legal victories over the past few years but always is looking for strong political partners. Simon said to count his caucus in. “I want it to be known that the Jewish community stands with the LGBTQ community and acknowledges and recognizes our place in both communities.”

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6 . 24 . 20 21 •

NEWS NATIONAL

BY COREY ROSE

THE COUNTRY ACROSS

WISCONSIN

SENATOR BOOED AT JUNETEENTH EVENT

After blocking legislation to make Juneteenth a federal holiday last year, a Wisconsin senator was booed by attendees at an annual celebration in Milwaukee, just days after the Senate unanimously voted to federalize the historical milestone. As Sen. Ron Johnson spoke to reporters at WISN, members of the crowd could be heard booing and chanting, “We don’t want you here.” Johnson told the Milwaukee JournalSentinel, “You come down here and try to interact with people and be nice to people. But this isn’t very nice, is it?” Juneteenth is an annual holiday commemorating the day enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas were officially freed, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation

Sen. Ron Johnson (right) with an event speaker. Photo via Facebook.

was issued in 1863. Johnson originally objected to efforts to make Juneteenth a national holiday due to the cost of adding another holiday to the federal calendar, but dropped his opposition last week, clearing the way for the Senate to approve Juneteenth by unanimous consent. Festival organizer Tony Kearney, Sr. told the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, “We are part of this nation. We helped build it. By Juneteenth being a holiday, it helps widen the exposure to the African American experience in America.”

OREGON

• 6 . 24 .2021

VIRGINIA

SENATE TO CONSIDER APOLOGIZING FOR DECADES OF LGBT DISCRIMINATION

Two senators have introduced a resolution that would lead to a formal apology from the Senate over decades of discrimination against LGBT individuals who served in the Armed Forces, the Foreign Service, and the Federal Civil Service. Introduced by Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin, who is lesbian, and Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine, the resolution is based on a 28-page document by The Mattachine Society of Washington, D.C., which details the ways in which the federal government caused “untold harm to those individuals professionally, financially, socially, and medically, among other harms” for over seven decades. The resolution accounts for the effects of government-sanctioned acts like Don’t

Ask Don’t Tell, the Defense of Marriage Act, and Sen. Joseph McCarthy’s Lavender Scare, which the report says encouraged discrimination against LGBT individuals in both the federal government and the private sector. The Senate has apologized to marginalized groups for its actions before, including the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, the genocide of Native Americans, and the upholding of slavery and lynchings against African Americans. Kaine said in a statement, “It’s time to acknowledge the harm caused to these Americans, their families, and our country by depriving them of the right to serve as federal civil servants, diplomats, or in the Armed Services.”

WASHINGTON, D.C.

OREGON EXPANDS ACCESS TO HIV TREATMENTS Oregon lawmakers are expanding access to HIV treatment with a new bill that just passed the House of Representatives for the second time this year. The bill, HB 2958, allows pharmacists to prescribe, dispense and administer up to a 30-day supply of both pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) over the counter, and without a doctor’s prescription. The bill also makes room for pharmacists to provide HIV testing to patients, and prevents health insurers from requiring an authorization before covering the services. Rep. Dacia Grayber, who co-sponsored the bill, told Oregon Public Broadcasting, “This is about reducing barriers to access for life-saving medications. PrEP

COVERING LGBT NEWS SWEEPING THE NATION

Photo via Adobe.

and PEP are both vital parts of the toolkit for ending the HIV epidemic. By empowering pharmacists to test for HIV and prescribe these medications, we make it easier for Oregonians to get the health care services they need.” The legislation is headed to Gov. Kate Brown’s desk, and will go into effect 90 days after the end of the 2021 legislative session.

LOCAL ACTIVISTS SEEK PERMANENT CLOSURE OF D.C. GAY BAR More than 100 protesters gathered outside a popular D.C. gay bar last Friday, calling for a boycott of the space after videos surfaced of a Black woman at the venue being dragged down a flight of steps by security personnel. Nellie’s Sports Bar closed for a week in response to the incident and issued a public apology, but local organizations Harriet’s Dream and the DC Ward 1 Mutual Aid have come together to issue a series of demands for the bar, including a direct apology from bar owner Douglas Schantz, followed by the staff and ownership’s attendance at a community listening session, and the perpetual closing down of the bar to make room for a “a Black trans and queer-led safe space in its place.”

In 2018, Nellie’s drew criticism for flying the “thin blue line” flag, a symbol used by groups to show opposition to the Black Lives Matter Movement. Collective Action for Safe Spaces Co-Chair Preston Mitchum told the Georgetown Voice, “Nellie’s has been taking Black dollars from Black people for years without investing in Black communities, without investing in Black people, without caring about our bodies and our humanity.” While still waiting for the bar to reach out to her directly, 22-year-old Keisha Young said she is pursuing legal action against the bar and told the DCist, “The public didn’t really get dragged down the stairs. I did. The public doesn’t have bruises. I do.”

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

BY EVERITT ROSEN

THE WORLD AROUND

ASIA

GAY GAMES TO BOOST HONG KONG’S REPUTATION The Hong Kong government’s backing for the Gay Games 2022 has sparked debate in recent days. Lawmakers are split on the internationally recognized event, which aims to promote equality for all, particularly LGBT individuals across the world. According to South China Morning Post, after the recent instability in Hong Kong, the Gay Games provide an opportunity for the city to redeem itself. The event is expected to provide significant economic benefits, which may give much-needed respite to their damaged economy. South China Morning Post reports that the 2018 Gay Games in Paris produced an economic effect of about €66 million (U.S. $80 million) and an extra €41 million in salary wages. The huge number

Hong Kong. Photo via Pixabay.

of tourists and companies associated with the event are projected to bring in a similar amount of money.

AFRICA

EUROPE UK SAYS HUNGARY’S LGBT PROPAGANDA BAN IS AN AFFRONT TO HUMAN RIGHTS

As Hungary’s “LGBT propaganda” ban comes under assault from all sides of the political spectrum, top British officials have blasted it as an “affront to human rights.” According to PinkNews, Hungary’s governing Fidesz party MPs made last-minute modifications to an antipaedophilia measure earlier this month, prohibiting any mention of LGBT individuals in schools or the media. It passed with a 157-1 margin, sparking widespread demonstrations as rainbow flags flooded the streets of Budapest outside Hungary’s parliament, the National Assembly. “We are concerned by measures that discriminate against the LGBT+ community in the law passed by the Hungarian parliament last week,” said

Photo via Adobe.

Wendy Morton, a Foreign Office minister in charge of European affairs, in a tweet, according to PinkNews.

SOUTH AMERICA

LGBT UGANDAN ACTIVISTS REACT TO ATTEMPTS TO FURTHER CRIMINALIZE HOMOSEXUALITY LGBT Ugandan activists are mobilizing against the Sexual Offenses Bill 2019 before it is signed into law by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. According to The Seattle Lesbian, with the late-night passing and tweet announcing the legislators’ decision on May 3, Ugandan LGBT advocates were taken by surprise. The Sexual Offenses Bill included parts of the old AntiHomosexuality Act, criminalizing both homosexuality and sex employment. It also eliminated certain permission wording for sexual activities, causing feminists to get enraged. “It was a surprise it was passed,” said Ssenfuka “Biggie” Joanita Warry, the executive director of Freedom and Roam Uganda, to The Seattle Lesbian. “We only got to know after its passing.”

EXPLORING LGBT NEWS EVENTS ACROSS THE GLOBE

Photo credit: Alisdare Hickson, via Flickr.

The new law reduces the penalty from life in prison under the previous AntiHomosexuality Act to 10 years in prison.

GUYANA INTRODUCES BILL TO REPEAL CROSS-DRESSING BAN According to Erasing 76 Crimes, the Guyanese government has submitted a bill to abolish the country’s outdated criminal prohibition on cross-dressing. The Caribbean Court of Justice had already declared the law unconstitutional in 2018. On June 10 the government bill was submitted to first reading and must now pass through the National Assembly to become law. Erasing 76 Crimes states that until November 2018, cross-dressing was punishable by a fine of 7,000-10,000 Guyanese dollars under the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act, Section 153 (xlvii), which punishes anyone who “being a man, in any public way or public place, for any improper purpose, appears in female attire, or being a woman, in

Photo via Pixabay.

any public way or public place, for any improper purpose, appears in male attire.” Once passed, the government’s bill would formally remove the offending clause from the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act.

6 . 24 . 20 21 •

NEWS STATE

PELICAN PRIDE Meet the two male pelicans who have been together for 18 years John Hayden

Pepe presenting Enrique. Photo courtesy of the Pelican Harbor Seabird Station.

pend a day at a marina in South Florida and you’ll see pelicans perched proudly on posts. The birds are part of the area’s landscape and a pair of the beautiful birds have been taking their pride to the next level. Pepe and Enrique are a couple of pelicans that found love after tragedy. They met at Pelican Harbor Seabird Station in Miami-Dade. Both had wing injuries and were treated and rehabbed by the caring staff. While they both recovered they can’t be released back into the wild. That has led to a rarely seen romance. “They are both boys but for the last 18 years they’ve been building their nest together, they’re not interested in any of the girls in there,” Hannah McDougall said. As the communications director for Pelican Harbor she’s delighted to see them happy. “Eighteen years, longer than most relationships I know.” Like mixed-sex pelicans, Pepe and Enrique go through an annual mating ritual. “When building the nest it’s super cute. The male will usually present the female with a stick and if it’s pretty enough she’ll accept it and

[make a howl]. Pepe and Enrique do that too. They have their courting dance before they build their nest together.” After that they literally change their appearance for one another. “Once they do find a mate their plumage changes. They lose their feathers and have their yearly ‘brown neck.’” Enrique and Pepe don’t just live together, they also go through the motions of having a family. “Pelicans take turns incubating the eggs. We give them a false egg and they take turns ‘incubating!’” Considering the fact pelicans can live up to 30 years, Pepe and Enrique likely still have lots of love in their future. These beautiful boys are just two of the birds that will always call Pelican Harbor home. They’re “animal ambassadors” and are used to educate visitors. The station lets people ceremoniously adopt the birds (no, you don’t get to take them home) and Pepe and Enrique are “adoptable” only as a couple. Over 41 years the facility has helped more than 37,000 patients.

To learn about Pelican Harbor Seabird Station, ceremonial adoption and more check out their website at PelicanHarbor.org.

• 6 . 24.2021

NEWS NATIONAL

RAIDERS PLAYER CARL NASSIB COMES OUT AS GAY First Active Player in NFL History

Staff Reports

Washington Blade

aiders defensive end Carl Nassib came out June 21, making him the NFL’s only openly gay player. “I just want to take a quick moment to say that I’m gay,” Nassib said in a video he posted on his Instagram account. “I’ve been meaning to do this for a while now but I finally feel comfortable enough to get it off my chest. I really have the best life. I’ve got the best family, friends and job a guy could ask for. I’m a pretty private person, so I hope you guys know I’m not doing this for attention, but I think representation matters.” Nassib also announced that he is donating $100,000 to The Trevor Project.

Carl Nassib. Photo via Instagram.

Follow SFGN.com for updates to this story.

A LITTLE BIT OF FAITH AND

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

SEE MORE ONLINE AT SFGN.COM/TABLE/NEWS/RELIGION 6 . 24 . 20 21 •

NEWS NATIONAL

SUPREME COURT RULES FOR RELIGIOUS AGENCY SEEKING TO REJECT LGBT FAMILIES Chris Johnson

Washington Blade

he U.S. Supreme Court ruled on June 17 in favor of a religious-affiliated foster care agency seeking to refuse child placement into LGBT homes, issuing a decision with a limited reach that determined the City of Philadelphia’s enforcement of a contract with non-discrimination provisions violates freedom of religion under the First Amendment. In a surprise twist, the ruling was unanimous without regard to their sexual orientation,” with nine justices on the court agreeing to Roberts writes. “But section 3.21 also permits the result in favor of Catholic Social Services, exceptions to this requirement at the ‘sole with Chief Justice John Roberts writing the discretion’ of the Commissioner. This inclusion opinion. As noted by SCOTUSblog, the court of a mechanism for entirely discretionary seemed much more divided in oral arguments, exceptions renders the non-discrimination although inclined to rule for the foster care provision not generally applicable.” agency. The American Civil Liberties Union, which “The refusal of Philadelphia to contract with had argued before the Supreme Court in the CSS for the provision of foster care services case and sided with the City of Philadelphia, unless the agency agrees to certify same-sex claimed a small victory after the decision. couples as foster parents cannot survive strict “The decision will not affect any foster care scrutiny and violate the Free Exercise Clause of programs that do not have the same system for the First Amendment,” Roberts writes. individualized exemptions that were at issue Although Catholic Social here,” Leslie Cooper, deputy Services had also contended director of the ACLU LGBTQ freedom of speech right under & HIV Project, said in a the First Amendment to reject statement. “This is good news same-sex couples, Roberts for the more than 400,000 adds the court didn’t reach a children in foster care across conclusion on that part of the the country, who are the argument. ones who get hurt the most if Becket Law, which had placement decisions are made argued in case on behalf of based on an agency’s religious Catholic Social Services, beliefs rather than the child’s crowed in a statement over its best interest. And this decision win at the Supreme Court. does not allow discrimination “It’s a beautiful day when in other taxpayer-funded the highest court in the land government programs such protects foster moms and as homeless shelters, disaster the 200-year-old religious relief programs and health - Fatima Goss Gaves ministry that supports them,” care.” CEO OF THE NATIONAL said Lori Windham, senior Marianne Duddy-Burke, WOMEN’S LAW CENTER counsel at Becket. “Taking executive director of the care of children, especially LGBTQ Catholic group children who have been neglected and abused DignityUSA, initially issued a statement saying is a universal value that spans all ideological the decision opened the door to discrimination divides. against LGBT families, but subsequently A key portion of the Roberts decision that updated it with a reaction more attune to the could limit its reach is language specific to decision’s language. Philadelphia’s contract with the city allowing “While we are disappointed in the specifics for discretion on enforcement, which he says of today’s ruling, we are relieved that the means the measure isn’t generally applicable court did not allow a broad exemption to measure. non-discrimination provisions in foster and “Section 3.21 of the contract requires adoption care,” Duddy-Burke said. “It remains an agency to provide services defined in deeply problematic that some religiously the contract to prospective foster parents affiliated agencies continue to seek the ability

“[THIS RULING] IS A HARMFUL LOSS TO THE CHILDREN IN THE FOSTER CARE SYSTEM IN PHILADELPHIA AS WELL AS THE COUNTLESS LGBTQ PARENTS.”

• 6 . 24.2021

Photo via PxHere.

to ban same-sex couples from opening their hearts and homes to children in need and undermine our hopes for expanding our families. The biases that lie at the heart of this case need to be eradicated.” David Flugman, a lawyer at the New Yorkbased Selendy & Gay PPLC whose practice includes LGBT rights, said in a statement the technical nature of the Fulton is “sure to invite even more litigation.” “Today the Supreme Court held, on narrow, technical grounds, that the City of Philadelphia’s attempt to ensure that Catholic Charities abide by the same nondiscrimination provisions applicable to all other city contractors could not withstand Catholic Charities’ religious right to refuse to screen loving same-sex couples to act as foster parents,” Flugman writes. “The Court did not take up Catholic Charities’ invitation to scuttle the 30-year-old test for free exercise claims that was announced in Smith v. Employment Division, which held that a neutral law of general applicability could survive even if it burdens religious practice.” The Supreme Court reversed and remanded decision of the U.S. Third Circuit of Court of Appeals, which had ruled in favor of City of Philadelphia enforcing its contract with Catholic Social Services. Both the appeals courts and the lower trial court had come to the opposite conclusion of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Notably, although the City of Philadelphia in addition to the contract it struck with Catholic Social Services has in a place LGBTQ nondiscrimination ordinance, the Supreme Court determines that measure doesn’t apply in the context of foster care services because it’s limited to the services “made available to the public.” “Certification is not ‘made available to the public’ in the usual sense of the words,” Roberts writes. “Certification as a foster parent is not readily accessible to the public; the process involves a customized and selective assessment that bears little resemblance to staying in a hotel, eating at a restaurant, or riding a bus.” Fatima Goss Graves, CEO of the National Women’s Law Center, said in a statement the decision from the Supreme Court “is a harmful loss to the children in the foster care system in Philadelphia as well as the countless LGBTQ parents.” “Weakening the government’s ability to protect their civil rights is hardly in their best interest, and we’re committed to ensuring this loophole is not stretched to further justify hatred or prejudice,” Graves added. “We must protect the right of every person to live without fear of discrimination because of who they are or who they love, and we must hold that value particularly close when it comes to the best interest of LGBTQ youth and the families who love them.”

Washington Blade courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association.

NEWS LOCAL

NEWS PHOTOS

WESTON MAYOR PULLS LGBT PROCLAMATION OFF AGENDA Reverses Decision After Backlash John Hayden

here was political whiplash in Weston when the city commission and Mayor Margaret Brown decided to adopt a pair of proclamations: one declaring June to be Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Queer Pride Month and the other National Caribbean American Heritage Month in the city. Both were pulled off the agenda late last week, creating accusations of marginalizing the LGBT and Caribbean American communities. But shortly after the start of the June 21 meeting, Mayor Brown reversed course explaining, “Primarily it was an administrative decision ... looking at what we were going to do procedurally” on how to award proclamations. She then touted the city’s openness to everyone. “However, so no one thinks that the city of Weston isn’t welcoming to everyone I am going to read the following proclamations.” Lifelong Weston resident Cody Rogers accepted the document on behalf of the community. Weston City Commissioner Mary MolinaMacfie sponsored both items, and later addressed the meeting. “[I] am the only minority that sits on this dais, the only Puerto Rican and Caribbean representative on the dais. That’s why I brought the proclamation earlier in the month as well as the Pride. Both issues are important to me and my family.” She went on to say she had a very rude awakening this morning. “Unfortunately as of this morning in my agenda review is when I was told the mayor was not going to sign it. After we had the mistake cleared up and we presented the proclamations, all I wanted to do as commissioner was to say thank you.” The issue quickly raised passions. Wilton Manors resident Michael Rajner traveled to the meeting when he believed the issues wouldn’t be discussed. While he thanked commissioners for doing the right thing, he reiterated there is much work to be done. “I’m a gay man and my community has been under attack for the last four years and this past legislative session in Tallahassee. Trans children, youth have been under attack by Republicans in Tallahassee and it’s disgusting.” He was referencing the ban on trans girls from playing school sports. Rajner talked with SFGN before the meeting,

MR. & MISS STONEWALL On June 15, the hot annual competition to find Mr. and Miss Stonewall 2021was hosted at The Eagle Wilton Manors, presented by Misty Eyez. After a wild night, Shasta McNastie was finally crowned Miss Stonewall 2021, while Javier José Rivera Nieves was named the Mr. Stonewall 2021. Pictured here is Shasta McNastie as she is given the 2021 Miss Stonewall crown. Photo credit: J.R. Davis. To see more, visit SFGN on Facebook.

3RD ANNUAL PRIDE DAY Above: the proclamation declaring June to be Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Queer Pride Month. Document courtesy of the City of Weston. Below: Mayor of Weston Margaret Brown. Photo via Facebook.

saying, “…at this juncture of embracing and celebrating diversity and recognizing that everybody is welcome and included, it’s important to recognize that cultures are embraced and celebrated and shown support.” Community ally Marty Goldenberg then stood up for the LGBT community saying, “I’m a white Jew, raised by Quakers, married to a Catholic in a Unitarian church, so I covered all my bases. I thank you for the consideration, reconsideration … for doing the right thing.” News of the controversy even got the attention of Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL). Before the meeting she urged the commission to rethink their decision. “Delaying these meaningful statements would perpetuate the marginalization of both communities, especially given that the achievements of both are historically celebrated in June,” she wrote.

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6 . 24 . 20 21 •

NEWS LOCAL

IN THE FACE OF TRAGEDY

PRIDE CONTINUES John Hayden

he return of Stonewall Pride Parade & Street Festival was split in two: before a tragic accident and after.

But even in those frightening moments plowing through the staging area started to when fun turned into fear the community’s spread. pride stayed strong. Rev. Durrell Watkins of Sunshine The party started on schedule at 3 p.m. Cathedral was there when the confusion on June 19. People started walking up one started. “Just then we hear this strange side of Wilton Drive and down the other. sound like a car accelerating and then we After missing last year due to the pandemic hear crashing noises we see a truck plowing people were ready to be together and party. through trees and plants, there was a nursery Stages lined the drive with drag queens across the street. Then we look down and see and singers pumping up Pride. In front of bodies that were struck. It was so fast and out Hunter’s airbrush legend of the blue, we’d seen it before Avi Ram was body painting we knew what we’d seen.” people. Down by SunServe’s It became apparent fairly building people sang quickly that this was an karaoke while others tried accident and not a coordinated to soak people in the dunk attack on the event or the tank. At the BodyTek tent community and panic never people posed at a photo gripped the crowd. booth. “A TRAGEDY CAN Watkins says what According to organizers happened next was BE A UNITER. WE more than 40,000 attended inspiring. “It was sad but it HAVE EXPERIENCED the festival beating the 2019 also happened at home, it event. happened in the community, THEM ALL TOO “It beat our expectations,” in the gayborhood with all of OFTEN. AND YET said Jeff Sterling, the us together and the people, SUCH THINGS festival’s CEO. they didn’t disperse. They Meanwhile restaurants stayed. It was a fine example HAVE BROUGHT filled up with people looking of community.” US TOGETHER IN for a little shade and a lot Sterling released a SUPPORT OF ONE of refreshments. Many set statement the day next up food and drink stations expressing the organization’s ANOTHER.” outside along The Drive so horror over the events that people could hydrate with transpired. - Dr. Requel Lopes their beverage of choice. “We are devastated by the WORLD AIDS MUSEUM IN FORT LAUDERDALE Considering this was tragic accident on June 19 the biggest in-person Pride at the start of the Stonewall in South Florida since the Pride Parade at the Fort COVID crisis, everything was going as well as Lauderdale High School involving members could be expected, if not better. of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus,” Then at 7 p.m., as the parade was he said. “Our hearts and prayers go out to the supposed to step off, there was no parade. family of the deceased, the other individuals What appeared to be a BSO helicopter was involved, and the Chorus family. As we await tightly circling over the staging area. No the result of the police investigation, we ask announcement was made but word of a truck the community to come together and pay

• 6 . 24.2021

Photo credit: J.R. Davis.

tribute to the life lost so tragically.” At the other end of The Drive by The Manor thousands stayed packed in the streets, music thumped with deep bass, and Pride continued. Dr. Requel Lopes of the World AIDS Museum in Fort Lauderdale was set to be CoGrand Marshal of the parade, and told SFGN: “Even a few days later I can feel the weight of it. We have lost one of our own. We mourn together. We reflect together. My heart goes out to all that were affected especially the members of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus. Let’s hold them all in our thoughts and prayers. A tragedy can be a uniter. We have experienced them all too often. And yet such things have brought us together in support of one another. The day began with a celebration of unity and love.” She continued: “The joint celebration

of Juneteenth and Pride was evident of our community’s ability to come together, providing a message of hope, resilience and love as one community. Regardless of our differences, we celebrated powerfully. We must continue to celebrate life, the legacy of those lost, as we have done so many times in the past – Juneteenth, Stonewall Riot, AIDS Crisis. We always came together. This is no different. It will take time. Be gentle with one another as each of us will mourn differently. We are One. We are Pride.” In the aftermath many could be traumatized by the accident. SunServe is offering counseling saying “When traumatic events like this occur anxiety and depression can follow. If you or someone you know is dealing with a new or exacerbated mental health issue, please reach out to our mental health professionals.”

Off The Wall

CONVICTIONS

BALANCING INDIVIDUAL FREEDOM WITH

PUBLIC HEALTH Pier Angelo

asks are very simple objects. It is usually a cloth with two stretchy bands at two ends. You put it on your face so you can cover your mouth and nose, and it acts as a barrier to the rest of the world. Tension around mask-wearing has risen in part because rules vary by state, county, and city, a legacy of former President Trump’s decision to delegate COVID-related policy to governors and for not setting an example himself to the point of denigrating those that continued to wear masks. While many Americans follow public health recommendations and wear masks in public to limit the spread of COVID-19, others passionately fight against them, saying they impair individual freedom. Individual freedom? If that is the best argument one can make then let’s see how many other “individual freedom infringements” there are out there: seat belts, no smoking areas, no drinking and driving, urinating in public, running in the streets naked and so on and so forth. Would these same people not wear a gas mask if their city was suddenly engulfed in

WOULD THESE SAME PEOPLE NOT WEAR A GAS MASK IF THEIR CITY WAS SUDDENLY ENGULFED IN TOXIC INDUSTRIAL CHEMICALS?

toxic industrial chemicals? Some of these lunatics even argue that masks “throw God’s wonderful breathing system out the door.” Do not adjust your reality, this is really happening. The whole ridiculous issue has turned into a culture war. Reopen NC, a group that opposes shutdown orders in North Carolina, said masks were “muzzles” that, along with things like mandatory temperature checks, were “ways our freedom is being eroded.” The group started a “Burn Your Mask Challenge” where people post videos on social media of themselves burning their masks and use the hashtag “#IgniteFreedom.” It is the end of common sense, a giant leap for ignorance. Some businesses have put up signs telling patrons they are required NOT to wear masks, while retail employees elsewhere have had to confront angry customers who refuse to wear them. But ignorance is a kind of blindness and there is no cure or vaccine for stupidity yet. Public health experts unanimously agree that masks help slow the spread of COVID-19. The CDC and World Health Organization both released recommendations to the public to wear masks and observe social distancing. Double masking is now encouraged and suggested. There’s an important sense that we’re all in this together, solidarity should be the true aim, it’s only as a united society that we will get out of this mess. Though masks alone will not completely halt the spread of the virus, recent research has shown that wearing them is the most efficient way to stop its transmission. Dr. Fauci said everyone should wear a mask in public and it “should not be a political issue. It is purely a public health issue.” And now that vaccinations are in full swing nationwide the aim is herd immunity. For the coronavirus we’re currently

A group of individuals burning their masks. Photo via Adobe.

fighting, herd immunity will probably only be reached when the vast majority of people get a vaccine (people who’ve had the disease develop some immunity and count towards herd immunity). We have a long way to go on vaccines, but we’re making steady progress. At the end of March, about 32% of Americans had gotten at least one dose of a vaccine (75.1% of those 65 years and

older had at least one shot), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The goal is having 80% of Americans fully vaccinated. And for those 20-25% of the population who still refuse to wear a mask, to practice social distance, to get vaccinated, I say: “Do continue to commingle among yourselves after all we need to thin out the herd.”

Pier Angelo was born in Italy, moved to England at the age of 17 and learned English at the Nelson School of English. He attended college and graduate school in Manhattan. In 2009 he founded SFGN with Norm Kent. Now he’s retired with his husband Tom and his Affenpinscher Cabbage. He still enjoys writing his column Off The Wall for SFGN. 6 . 24 . 20 21 •

Publisher's Editorial

CONVICTIONS

THE ARROGANCE OF POWER Dean Trantalis has a run in with himself Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

y now, even your grandmother’s pet frog in Pennsylvania knows that Dean Trantalis had a monstrous meltdown during the tragedy at the Stonewall Festival last week. With no information at his disposal to lend credence to his words, he improvidently declared a tragic accident to be a terrorist attack. At a time when a community leader needed to exercise measured calm and restraint, he jumped to an irresponsible conclusion, in the face of facts and advisors who pleaded with him to do otherwise. As football announcers would say, at this point, more censure for those mistaken words would be “piling on.” The mayor already has enough critics on point. Unfortunately, since then, the mayor has had a continued run in with his own words and himself. He could be his own worst enemy. More consequential than his impetuous remarks on that sad day has been the mayor’s response to those criticizing him, upon learning he erred. He keeps shifting the blame from himself to others. Not only the Sun-Sentinel has said that. Many people in our community agree. The mayor’s regrettable intransigence reflects a stubborn hubris, an arrogance of power, and an unwillingness to face up to an otherwise understandable mistake. The mayor first walked back his inaccurate assessment of events with a “statement of regret” at the vigil, blaming it instead on “being too close to reporters.” Yes, like they really twisted his arm to go on camera. The very next day, Channel 10 asked Mayor Trantalis if he wanted to apologize for the error of his words. He did not, he said. Instead, the mayor attacked the interviewer. Mayor Trantalis condescendingly replied to her that “this was not about him; that the

THERE’S MORE ONLINE! 16

• 6 . 24.2021

only one who has to apologize is the driver.” Well, Dean, he did — and that’s more than we can say about you. The recurring truth is we have a gay mayor who does not withstand criticism well. He has proved it to SFGN before, and he is showing it to the city this week. For your information, our gay mayor has refused to talk to your gay newspaper or its staff of reporters and editors for years now. The mayor has been terribly irresponsible. We have called him multiple times on a host of issues inviting him to comment on a variety of topics, but he refuses to reply to us. It is time he was called out for it. Today, I will give you two instances. Sadly, there are many more, involving at least four different reporters he has repeatedly ignored. THE AIDS HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION CONTROVERSY In February of 2020, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation called Dean Trantalis out for turning his back on their low-cost affordable housing project in Fort Lauderdale, which he had previously supported. In response to an opinion piece endorsing AHF’s position and criticizing him, the mayor texted one of our reporters he would never talk to us again because it hurt him “politically.” The mayor was invited to write a column, speak to our reporters, or give an interview countering our editorial position. He refused. Still does. The mayor said he would not “dignify the paper with a response from me.” He also added that SFGN is not “a legitimate newspaper.” The last time I looked, our paper was not created to coronate a straight king or gay queen.

We are entitled to express our opinions, and they do not have to agree with the mayor on every issue. They don’t. THE CORAL RIDGE CHURCH CONTROVERSY This year, another controversial issue emerged in the Fort Lauderdale city commission. The mayor chose to endorse a resolution celebrating the Coral Ridge Church on its 50th anniversary. We were outraged and said so. This church is represented by people who call us Sodomites and has sought to deny our community equality at every turn. Still do. By the way, how is that partnership going? On another page of this paper, you will find a list of those who were going to participate in the parade last week. Don’t think I saw the float of the Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church or the Westminster Academy there. Did you? We did see the church’s names amongst those congratulating our neanderthal governor for signing legislation which denies the rights of transgender girls from participating in state sporting events at their high schools. Instead of talking to our credentialed reporters, the mayor granted embarrassing interviews to gay bar guides, which ever so conveniently sucked up to him. We don’t. That is not our job. SFGN was not created to throw rose petals on His Honor’s feet. Mr. Mayor, it’s time for you to man up. SFGN’S DUTY TO YOU SFGN is a credible institution with 10 years of award-winning journalism under our belt. We are not only part of the Florida Press Association and the National LGBT Media Association, but have been news partners with

Dean Trantalis, the mayor of Fort Lauderdale. Photo via the Mayor Dean Trantalis page, Facebook.

CNN, the Sun Sentinel and have collaborated with the Associated Press. SFGN’s duty is to report the news and provide editorial commentary upon it. We are not supposed to agree with city officials on every issue, but instead hold them accountable for their decisions. SFGN comes together weekly with a plethora of journalistic talent, supported by a blend of distinguished contributors, columnists, and critics covering issues from finance to fishing — online daily and in print weekly. We are the local gay paper that will write about the life and loss of Jim Fahy, who generously delivered SFGN to his Galt Ocean condo weekly. We are the paper that will tell the trauma of Fred Johnson and his partners at the Gay Men’s Chorus. We are the paper that celebrates our community’s Pride, but also shares its pain. We are the paper that will write about our community’s wins, as well as our warts. SFGN’s mission is to report news of importance to the LGBT community with straight facts. That’s our mission. That’s what we have done. SFGN will shield our community from harm. It will not shield those who use you for their own gain. Ask George Castrataro how that worked out. Imperfect though we are, improving every day as we must, that’s what we will continue to do, no matter who the mayor is.

MAYOR TRANTALIS OWES COMMUNITY UNCONDITIONAL APOLOGY By the Sun Sentinel Editorial Board • Read it at SFGN.com

CONVICTIONS

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6 . 24 . 20 21 •

NEWS STONEWALL PRIDE

A STATEMENT FROM PUBLISHER NORM KENT Tragedy may have cut short our planned parade for last Saturday, but SFGN today salutes those who were going to participate, by listing those businesses, groups, and organizations who had gone to the time and expense to salute our community, our lives, ourselves. You are entitled to the recognition and reward we were all sadly denied last weekend. We will share laughter and live again. Another day will come. - Norm Kent

CITY WILTON MANORS LEAD CAR FT LAUDERDALE PD MOUNTED UNIT AMERICAN VETERNS FOR EQUAL RIGHTS NBC6 WEATHERMAN STEVE MACLAUGHLIN DR REQUEL LOPES MR/MISS STONEWALL PRIDE WILTON MANORS CITY FLOAT WILTON MANORS POLICE US REP. DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ NICHOLAS HESSING COUNTY COMMISSIONER TIM RYAN BROWARD SHERIFF’S OFFICE FORT LAUDERDALE POLICE OAKLAND PARK COMMISSIONER CARN OAKLAND PARK COMMISSIONER SPARKS CITY OF COCONUT CREEK POLICE AND FIRE STONEMOR FUNERAL GROUP CITY FURNITURE EVERGLADES SQUAD - 501ST LEGION RAMROD BAR STATE SENATOR GARY FARMER SCANDALOUS DANCE TEAM KINDNESS MATTERS 365 CITY OF OAKLAND PARK BROWARD DEMOCRATIC PARTY FLOCKFEST OUT OF THE CLOSET AIDS HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION AL HENDRICKSON TOYOTA THE OUTLET BY AL HENDRICKSON IHEART MEDIA RAMAT SHALOM SYNAGOGUE 4 EVER YOUNG SHERIFF GREGGORY TONY AND CAPTAIN AUDREY JONES NORTH BROWARD DEMOCRATIC CLUB MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE CHEER MIAMI FORT LAUDERDALE HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND FORT LAUDERDALE GAY MEN’S CHORUS UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST SOUTH FLORIDA AMATEUR ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION OP CITY COMMISSIONER MITCH ROSENWALD OFFICE DEPOT BROWARD COUNTY – LGBTQ LIAISON COALITION TYLER THE BONSAI GUY FRONT RUNNERS AND WALKERS FORT LAUDERDALE CITY OF WILTON MANORS STEPHEN FRAZIER

Photo credit: J.R. Davis.

BEARS OF SOUTH FLORIDA FORT LAUDERDALE FIRE DEPARTMENT TIM BLAIR ACHI DIVERS CORP STATE REP. ROBIN BARTLEMAN CHRISTINE HUNSCHOFSKY MARIE WOODSON BIONIC DESIGNS SOUTH FLORIDA PRIDE WIND ENSEMBLE MEDMEN FORT LAUDERDALE GARY VAN HORN PRO SOLAR RELIABLE POWER SYSTEMS MY TROPX DOLPHIN DEMOCRATS TEMPLE BETH EL OF BOCA RATON PRISM FL OVIS PLACE ATHLETIC AND DANCE STUDIO OAKLAND PARK STARBUCKS EQUALITY FLORIDA CONGREGATION ETZ CHAIM BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF BROWARD ARTS UNITED DR HASAN YAP SHOES FOR CREWS WAG PRIDE ELIJAH MANLEY FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE THE PRIDE CENTER AT EQUALITY PARK BROWARD TEACHERS UNION DONNA SPENCER SCANDALS SALOON LE BOY SISTERS OF PERPETUAL INDULGENCE HOUSE OF THE RISING SUN HOLY ANGELS NATIONAL CATHOLIC CHURCH GABLES WILTON PARK SUN SERVE SOCIAL SERVICES RE-MAX EXPERIENCE - ANN TUTTLE AIR AROUND THE CLOCK PROUD SOCIETY THE PUB JIM RUSSELL DEMESMIN AND DOVER LAW FIRM LATINOS SALUD OAKLAND PARK AND WILTON MANORS DEMOCRATIC CLUB NEPTUNE MEMORIAL REEF & DIGNITY MEMORIAL BEAR DEROSA ALIBI FLAG TRUCK

PARADE LIST COMPILED BY AND COURTESY OF WILTON MANORS ENTERTAINMENT GROUP AND STONEWALL PRIDE. We apologize for any inadvertent ommissions or typos.

• 6 . 24.2021

THE

GAZETTE VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 13 JUNE 24, 2021

FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/WMGAZETTE COMMUNITY

WILTON MANORS

Tragedy Strikes Pride Crash kills one; injures three, and stops parade

By Jason Parsley Whoosh. That’s what Nicholas Coppola vividly remembers as the truck barreled past him, after striking three pedestrians, and then careening across the road into a plant nursery. “I was rattled. I’m still reeling from it,” he said. “It was a very surreal moment.” Him and his close friend Kevin Muth were on the passenger side of Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz’s car as the tragic accident unfolded. They were just a foot away as the out-of-control truck crossed the street. “There was a thud of the driver hitting somebody. Then I heard another thud, and a body flew up in the air. There was never an attempt to break,” Muth said. “It was just a constant revving up of the engine, and the next thing you know, it crossed the street.” For Coppola though he first heard the truck ram through the fence from the staging area in Fort Lauderdale High School’s parking lot. “I actually felt the wind of the truck pass me,” he said. The truck also narrowly missed Wasserman Schultz’s car as well.

Days later Muth and Coppola were still shaken up. “It was frightening. I’ve been having lots of difficulty concentrating on stuff. I just keep replaying it, hearing it, the screams, and fear in everybody’s eyes,” Muth said. “That thud was horrible. The worst part was seeing the bodies, hit and thrown, and fall into the ground.” The accident occurred about 6:57 p.m. Saturday, June 19 on Northeast 4th Avenue just across the Rainbow Bridge. Both Muth and Coppola initially suspected the worst: someone had intentionally terrorized the LGBT community. “At that moment, unfortunately, I really thought that was our worst nightmare come true,” Coppola said. Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis jumped to that conclusion. Speaking to Local 10 News within 15 minutes of the incident, he declared, “This was a terrorist attack against the LGBT community. This is exactly what it is. Hardly an accident. It was deliberate. It was premeditated.” The incident took place a week after the fifth anniversary of the Pulse nightclub

The accident occurred about 6:57 p.m. Saturday, June 19 on Northeast 4th Avenue just across the Rainbow Bridge.

Patrons on Wilton Drive after the accident. Photo credit: Carina Mask.

shooting. This also happened a week after the vandalism of a new LGBT crosswalk in Delray Beach where a 20-year-old man had used his truck to do a “burnout” over the artwork leaving two dark skid marks. Other public officials, like Wilton Manors City Commissioner Chris Caputo, though weren’t so sure.

www.WMGAZETTE.com

“From the beginning, everything I personally saw and heard led me to believe it was a horribly tragic accident and not a terrorist attack,” he said. “Out of an abundance of caution, and to allow for a proper investigation, the City of Wilton Manors exercised restraint in its communication.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

6 . 24 . 20 21 •

WILTON MANORS

OPINION

Burning The Midnight Oil This is the job you signed up for

By Sal Torre Many Islanders have been keeping late hours over the past few days. Volunteers leading up to the Stonewall Pride event worked many late hours getting ready for the big day. Many after the tragic event at the beginning of the parade have been unable to sleep soundly still dealing with what was witnessed that unfortunate evening. Certainly this rings true to the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus family, who have suffered unimaginable loss and tragedy. What happened Saturday night at the Pride event reminds us all how precious our time here is on earth, and how at any moment our lives can change in ways we have no control over. Having volunteered to help set up the event earlier in the day, then ready to march later that day, my friend and I were enjoying the amazing energy of the day and the festivities. As we lined up ready to begin the march down a packed Wilton Drive, our walking group from the Oakland Park Wilton Manors Democratic Club were all too close to the tragedy that unfolded right before us. Totally caught up with the excitement of the moment with all the groups coming together as the parade started taking off, those right there were jolted out of our state of excitement by the sound of a reeving engine right next to us. In just a split second after that realization we saw the truck racing right past us, only inches away, out into the street totally out of control, hitting one pedestrian, then another before crashing into the chain link fence of the nursery business across the road. In that brief moment my mind was trying to grasp what had happened. Most of us right there believed it was a tragic accident and not some planned attack, hate crime, or terrorist attack as others began to speculate on social media. We mourn for the victim, pray for those injured and our hearts go out to the driver and the chorus family so devastated by the tragic event. We grieve together as one community, we will march once again as one community and we will be stronger together as one community. Thankfully over the next few days other matters here in our Island City deflected my

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Photo via Adobe.

attention from this tragic event and kept me from dwelling on what happened right in front of us. Happy to have this diversion, I involved myself wholeheartedly. The agenda on Tuesday night’s City Commission meeting was going to be contentious, with questions of zoning, density, and height restrictions to be decided for the future growth of our city. Many in our community were once again motivated by misinformation and fear mongering. These community leaders stated that they are not against development, however, one just has to look at the deteriorating vacant church property on NE 26th Street to see otherwise. Many quality plans for that property have met fierce opposition by this band of eastsiders each and every time. If their idea of quality development means a park or even a cemetery as some have stated, then we have a big difference of opinion on what this city needs for its future. Everyone was expecting a long night due to the amount of people making Public Comments, the discussion by the Commission and getting through all the ordinances. Everyone except Commissioner Gary Resnick it seems. At some point in the evening, Commission Resnick did

not get his way and announced that at such a late hour it was meaningless to go any further and everything should be tabled to another meeting. Thankfully no other commissioner or our mayor seconded Resnick’s motion. Now even more frustrated for not getting his way, Commissioner Resnick announced that he was leaving the meeting and signed off from Zoom leaving his colleagues, city staff and residents behind. Not what we should expect from our elected officials. We elect people to office who we believe will serve the interest of our community, do what is right and what is necessary for the betterment of the community they serve. If keeping a few late nights is required to get the job done, then we expect that commitment. Unfortunately, what we got from Commissioner Resnick was a temper tantrum for not getting his way as he stormed off, leaving us all behind. Thank you Mayor Scott Newton, Vice Mayor Paul Rolli, Commissioners Mike Bracchi and Chris Caputo for doing the job we elected you to office for. Burning the midnight oil, finishing the job, and making the tough decisions we elected you to do is what makes life just better here…. And the community that came together to celebrate Pride on Saturday, then mourned together after the tragic event and who understand the hard work it takes to build such a community is definitely what makes life just better here…

www.WMGAZETTE.com • 6 . 24.2021

GAZETTE Publisher • Norm Kent norm.kent@sfgn.com Associate publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley jason.parsley@sfgn.com

We grieve together as one community, we will march once again as one community and we will be stronger together as one community.

THE

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

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It’s never too hot outside to hit the beach! Photo via PxHere.

NEWS

OAKLAND PARK

Officials at the groundbreaking ceremony. Photo via the City of Oakland Park, Facebook.

First Phase of Oakland Park’s City Park Breaks Ground By Christiana Lilly On June 11, Oakland Park celebrated the groundbreaking of the first phase of City Park, which will bring more recreational facilities to residents and visitors. The park will have a new splash pad, playground, basketball courts, covered pavilion and ADA bathrooms, and the pickleball courts and concession stand will be renovated. “Recreation is not a secondary concern for democracy,” said Heidi Burnett, the city’s director of library and cultural services. “It is a primary concern because the way that people spend their spare time determines the kind of people they become and the community that they subsequently build one day.” Located at 3900 NE 3rd Ave., the public watched as city officials performed the ceremonial groundbreaking in the morning. Oakland Park Vice Mayor Michael Carn represented the commission and was joined by Broward County Commissioner Lamar Fisher, Florida Rep. Chip LaMarca, and former Mayors Tim Lonergan and Caryl Stevens for the event. City Park, as well as a plethora of other city projects, is funded by a $40 million bond program approved by 67% of voters in 2018. Known as the Building Our 2nd Century/City Facilities Bond, it will also cover the construction of the Public Works Facility, North Andrews Gardens Community Center, Fire Station 9 and Fire Station 20. There will also be renovations to Park Place at Jaco Pastorius Park, Fire Station

87 and the city’s Municipal Building. Carn, who is running for a seat in the Florida House, was a strong backer of the bond proposal and was adamant about making upgrades in the city, especially in the outdated firehouses. “With the bond consideration, why not also include those projects that are dear and near to the community?” he asked. “This is fantastic to me. I love children, I love to see families together, I love to see them have space. Our children don’t have space ... This new facility will give them their own space identified for them.” Lonergan was the city mayor when the bond was approved, and he attended the ceremonial groundbreaking to see it come to fruition. “This is about the needs of the city and the people of the city of Oakland Park and they understand it’s time, it’s time for these upgrades,” he said. “This is something that Oakland Park so desperately needs, these upgrades. The splash pad is going to be so wonderful for the kids; I’m so excited about it.” The city is also working on redeveloping its downtown and Oakland Park Design Development District (also known as OP3D), something residents in a survey agreed is a high priority for the growth of the city. City Park was designed by Zyscovich Architects and Kaufman Lynn will be leading construction. This first phase of the project is scheduled for completion in summer 2022.

City Park, as well as a plethora of other city projects, is funded by a $40 million bond program approved by 67% of voters in 2018.

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NEWS

WILTON MANORS

Stonewall Parade Crash Victims’ Identities Released, Driver Issues Apology By Christiana Lilly With families notified, the Fort Lauderdale Police Department released the names of those involved in Saturday evening’s crash at the Stonewall Pride Parade in Wilton Manors. James Fahy, 75, was killed when he was hit by a truck at the start of the parade. Jerry Vroegh, 67, was injured and has since been discharged from Broward Health Medical Center. A third man, Gary Keating, 69, sustained minor injuries and was treated on site. The driver of the white Dodge Ram is Fred Johnson, Jr. All four men are members of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Fort Lauderdale and were participating in the parade. “This was a horrible accident and I offer my sincere regrets to all those who were impacted by this tragic event,” Johnson, 77, said in a statement through the chorus. “I love my Chorus family and the community and would never do anything to intentionally harm anyone. Please know that I hold my fellow

Chorus member, Jim Fahy, in my heart forever and offer my condolences to his friends and family.” Justin Knight, the president of the chorus, issued his own statement to announce Fahy’s death. “He was a longtime, valued member of our Chorus family and he will be deeply missed,” he said. “We wish a speedy recovery for Chorus member Jerry Vroegh who was injured in the accident. We thank everyone for their concern, compassion and support.” FLPD noted that the incident is still being investigated, but “all available information and evidence indicates this was a terrible accident.” Previously, representatives said that Johnson had “ailments” that prevented him from walking the duration of the parade and so he was instead selected to drive the lead vehicle for the group.

“As the vehicle began to move forward in anticipation for the start of the parade, the vehicle accelerated unexpectedly, striking two pedestrians,” a statement from the FLPD read. The truck continued, crashing through the chain-link fence of a plant nursery. Police immediately apprehended Johnson, who cooperated. FLPD took the lead on the investigation and the FBI was called in to assist, as it was not clear initially whether the incident was an accident or intentional. During a community prayer vigil Sunday night, Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton told a crowd of more than 100 that, “This was an accident. A pure accident.” “We have to pray for the one that died and that’s in the hospital, but we have to pray for the gentleman that [drove the truck] — I don’t know if I could live with something like that if it happened to me,” he said. “So please pray for all of them. It’s unbelievable.”

James Fahy. Courtesy of GMCFL.

Jerry Vroegh. Courtesy of GMCFL.

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THE LAW OFFICES OF NORMAN KENT AND RUSSELL CORMICAN Russell Cormican

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

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• 6 . 24.2021

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JUNE 24, 2021

GUEST COLUMN

OAKLAND PARK

RESERVE YOUR AD NOW!

Affordable Housing Welcomed In Oakland Park THE

954-530-4970, EXT. 1

E D I U G

By Mitch Rosenwald

Commissioner of Oakland Park

THE HA

TO W NDBOOK

HAT'S H

OUTH OT IN S

FLORIDA

EARLY BIRD ENDS ON JUNE 30TH

Photo via PxHere.

At the June 16 Commission meeting, the the importance of transportation access for members made the correct decision, to those that require it. Gone are the days of new affordable approve a resolution supporting affordable housing that subscribes to housing opportunities in the the old-school tenement style city. I appreciate my fellow from the past. These can be in commissioners’ foresight into Oakland Park architecturally sophisticated ensuring that Oakland Park is joins some of buildings with access to a place where all who wish to transportation as well as reside here can do so. its sister cities shopping and city services. While our city continues in the county as With the commission’s to develop housing stock for support, we now have a higher-income constituents, well as Broward formal policy that directs it is important that we have County, itself, staff to create a plan for housing at all price points. implementation. Oakland Affordable housing provides to demonstrate Park joins some of its just that. sister cities in the county According to the U. S. this commitment as well as Broward County, Department of Housing and to affordable itself, to demonstrate this Urban Development, affordable commitment to affordable housing focuses on helping housing. housing. those who would find at least I am proud to represent 30% of their income would be spent on rent. This has been studied in Oakland Oakland Park residents and work with my Park — a Broward County-commissioned FIU colleagues to bolster Oakland Park as a “City study found such a need — and emphasized on the Move.”

Commissioner Mitch Rosenwald was elected to the Oakland Park City Commission in 2020. Mitch brings the perspective of a social worker, a researcher, and a community activist to this position. He believes that residents, business owners, and city administration can partner to balance smart development with neighborhood integrity. Mitch is committed to hearing the residents’ voice, building strong, diverse neighborhoods, cultivating smart growth, and creating a “greener” Oakland Park.

MEDICARE AND PRIVATE INSURANCE ACCEPTED

www.WMGAZETTE.com 5 •

JUNE 24, 2021

6 . 24 . 20 21 •

Don’t miss Tragedy Strikes Pride a Crash kills one; injures three, and stops parade COMMUNITY

WILTON MANORS

tastE Feeling the hunger?

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

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

sFGn.com/FooD

Above: a press conference after the incident at Stonewall Pride. Credit: Carina Mask.

Meanwhile at the other end of the parade route in the heart of Wilton Manors few people knew what was happening except there was a delay of the parade. “As we walked back, it seemed so many people were unaware of it, which I think was a good thing,” Coppola said. “It didn’t cause any kind of panic, which I was glad about. Because you know, with that kind of crowd, God forbid, something like that happens, it could just make a very bad situation that much worse.” Muth and Coppola, who both live in Delray Beach, are veterans of Pride parades, marching in more than 15 of them through the years. “I always felt safe,” Coppola said. “I mean even in New York City with the crowds, I felt comfortable.” This year they were going to march with Congressman Ted Deutch’s contingent. They had just greeted Wasserman Schultz when the accident occurred. “Everybody was talking with Debbie,” Muth recalled. James Fahy, 75, was the victim who was

killed in the accident. Jerry Vroegh, 67, was injured and has since been discharged from Broward Health Medical Center. A third man, Gary Keating, 69, sustained minor injuries and was treated on site. The driver of the white Dodge Ram is Fred Johnson, Jr. All four men are members of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Fort Lauderdale and were participating in the parade. “This was a horrible accident and I offer my sincere regrets to all those who were impacted by this tragic event,” Johnson, 77, said in a statement through the chorus. “I love my Chorus family and the community and would never do anything to intentionally harm anyone. Please know that I hold my fellow Chorus member, Jim Fahy, in my heart forever and offer my condolences to his friends and family.” Wilton Manors Police Chief Gary Blocker has also confirmed the incident was an accident even though the Fort Lauderdale Police Department continues to investigate.

This year they were going to march with Congressman Ted Deutch’s contingent. They had just greeted Wasserman Schultz when the accident occurred.

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WILTON MANORS

OPINION

Hamburger Mary’s Opens; It’s A Work In Progress Opinion by John Hayden Hamburger Mary’s returned to Wilton Manors on Monday night, June 14. Given its perceived rivalry with the burger joint across the street that used to be a Hamburger Mary’s, this is the most buzzed-about opening along The Drive in a long time. While I’m sure the manager and staff were anxious to open up, they probably should have waited. On opening night everything felt and looked like a work in progress, as if they’re still figuring out work flow, the lighting, food, etc. At about 8 p.m. the restaurant, including the outdoor patio, tables were about full, and the bar was a little busier. The service staff was incredibly friendly and interacting with them was a pleasure. But it felt like a free for all. I saw one server taking a table outside at the far end of the patio and a table inside by the back bar, essentially traveling the length of the restaurant. I was told they only have four servers right now and they didn’t start training until the Thursday before opening. Post-it notes were on each table with what I presumed was the table number. They are also in desperate need of a hostess stand. Everyone was seating themselves, and for the relatively small crowd it worked. But if it had been much busier things could have gotten out of control quickly, especially given the small wait staff. I saw several people going to get their own silverware from a basket by the door. When we got our silverware there was only a fork wrapped in the napkin and we needed to cut something. My friend and I tried to sample various parts of the menu. We shared fried mac and cheese balls and they were delicious. We each got a burger and it wasn’t until they arrived we realized we weren’t asked how we wanted them cooked. They were what can charitably be called medium rare. We went ahead and ate them but another minute on the grill wouldn’t hurt. However we did have to send back the sides of fries. They were only slightly above room temperature. To be fair, they were quickly replaced and we had fresh hot fries within about two minutes. For a drink I ordered the Lime in the Coconut and it was quite limey, but it took about 15 minutes to arrive. Later my friend’s vodka and diet took about 20 minutes. Interim drinks came faster, but I felt it best to order well before my current drink was empty. And then there is the menu itself. It has about 20 items including appetizers and desserts, that is if you can read it. It was very

Inside the new Wilton Manors Hamburger Mary’s. Photo via Facebook.

blurry and at the top shows a screenshot taken in late May, so it wasn’t like it was a lastminute choice. Our server helped us decipher it and then told us it was the wrong menu. At that point we were committed to our burger choices and didn’t ask for another menu. The atmosphere felt Mary-lite. The color scheme is there, the stage looks fun, there’s a wall of fabulous boots, and a statue of Mary greets you at the door. But you feel like it needs to be done... more. The over-the-top camp at other locations is missing here. There is a beautiful winged mural by local artist Avi Ram which is great to see but I wish they gave it better lighting. At one point, for no obvious reason, dance floor lights started flashing all over the center of the dining room. It’s great if you’re dancing, it’s distracting when you’re eating. Speaking of dancing, the music was on theme but not varied. There would be a long mix of Beyoncé, then a long block of Madonna, then Cher, and others. Diva attitude is a Hamburger Mary tradition but it felt like they just strung some playlists together and pressed play. I get the feeling that if Pride wasn’t last weekend they wouldn’t have opened yet. But one person told me they wanted to be able to run through service the week leading up to Pride so they would be ready. All these are little things that are easily fixed and I will definitely go back, probably after Independence weekend.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

WILTON MANORS

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

One Step Closer to Trees On The Drive If you want to cause a Facebook riot in a Wilton Manors group, all you must do is ask “When are the trees coming to Wilton Drive?” Few questions will cause more heartache and hate trolling than a landscaping status update request in our city. It’s a completely legitimate question with a very complex answer. The quest for trees has been a long and arduous one. Literally dozens of volunteers and city staff have worked tirelessly to bring trees to the drive including folks like Doug Blevins, Tony LoGrande, Tom Green and many more. Since Wilton Drive is a state road, city staff and engineers had the very arduous project of identifying tree species and potential locations that the Florida Department of Transportation would allow. FDOT, which owns Wilton Drive, follows very specific rules about traffic sight lines that make it incredibly hard to create the type of tree canopy we want. It’s been nearly a year since that hurdle was crossed. While we originally planned to pay for the project out of our city funds, we were presented with an opportunity to have Broward County’s surtax funds cover the expense. Surtax funds are from the 1 cent tax for transportation that was approved by Broward County residents. We applied for and were selected to receive that surtax funding. As a result, Broward Surtax funds are covering the estimated $245k in costs for the trees, landscaping, and irrigation for Wilton Drive as well as wayfinding signage citywide. As a city of only 12,000 residents, having the opportunity to save $245k in our budget is a big deal, especially having just dealt with a pandemic that slashed revenue and increased expenses. One downside, however, of Broward County funding the project is the requirement that we not proceed with the project without following Broward County’s process. As a condition of funding, we agreed to have Broward County

Photo via Pixabay.

review all grant contracts and bid documents before putting the project out to bid and beginning work. Cue the government bureaucracy and red tape. We have been waiting for Broward County to provide the grant contracts and approval of our bid documents so we can move these projects forward. After MANY months of waiting, we have finally received draft agreements from the county. These items will be presented to the commission at an upcoming meeting and, barring any changes, we can put these and other surtax-funded projects out to bid in the coming months. What’s all this mean? We’re one step closer beautifying Wilton Drive and “trees on Wilton Drive” no longer being a Firestarter on Facebook threads!

After MANY months of waiting, we have finally received draft agreements from the county.

Submitted by Chris Caputo

WILTON MANORS CITY COMMISSIONER

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JUNE 24, 2021

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COMMUNITY

WILTON MANORS

Fact Vs. Fiction Pride Tragedy

By Jason Parsley Was this intentional? No. In the immediate aftermath of the crash those closest to the scene feared the worst – a bad actor had attacked the LGBT community. Within 15 minutes after the crash (at 7:12 p.m.) the Mayor of Fort Lauderdale, Dean Trantalis, was on Local 10 News where he proclaimed with certainty: “This was a terrorist attack against the LGBT community. This is exactly what it is. Hardly an accident. It was deliberate. It was premeditated.” But soon reports from other eyewitnesses countered that claim. Wilton Manors City Commissioner Chris Caputo posted on Twitter at 7:42 p.m. “It seems increasingly probable it was an accident.” Later in the evening the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus released a statement saying the two pedestrians that were struck as well as the driver were all members of the chorus. Since then the Police Chief of Wilton Manors, Gary Blocker, has said it was an accident but ultimately it’s up to the Fort Lauderdale Police Department to make that determination since they are the lead investigators. So far they’ve said all available information and evidence “indicates this was a terrible accident.”

Was Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz Targeted? No. In the immediate aftermath of the accident another rumor suggested the attack was targeted at Democratic Representative Debbie Wasserman Shultz since the truck narrowly missed her vehicle. But as said above – this was just a tragic and unfortunate accident.

How many victims were there? Three. Initial reports said there were two victims, one of whom died. But in the latest statement from the FLPD three victims were listed as being struck. James Fahy, 75, was killed, while Jerry Vroegh and Gary Keating were injured. Vroegh has been released from Broward Health Medical Center while Keating was just treated for minor injuries. Fred Johnson, Jr. of Oakland Park was the driver.

Photo credit: Carina Mask.

Did the driver flee the scene? No. The driver was taken into custody immediately and the FLPD later said he “has been cooperative with investigators for the duration of the investigation.”

Was the driver under the influence? No. According to the FLPD “A DUI investigation of the driver was conducted on scene and showed no signs of impairment.”

So how did this happen? It isn’t clear. The FLPD statements up to this point have said the driver “had ailments preventing him from walking the duration of the parade and was selected to drive as the lead vehicle.” So we’ll have to wait for the investigation to wrap up for more details. The driver has since apologized saying, “This was a horrible accident and I offer my sincere regrets to all those who were impacted by this tragic event. I love my Chorus family and the community and would never do anything to intentionally harm anyone. Please know that I hold my fellow Chorus member, Jim Fahy, in my heart forever and offer my condolences to his friends and family.”

For those who would like to speak to someone to process the events of the weekend, Sunshine Cathedral and SunServe are available for help. If any witnesses of the incident would like to speak to investigators, please contact Traffic Homicide Investigator Paul Williams at 954-828-5755.

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR

WILTON MANORS

Wilton Manors Leaders Acted With Grace and Sound Leadership

During The Stonewall Pride Parade Tragedy Leadership during a tragedy involves making the right decisions after gathering your facts, remaining calm, and then leading the community to a safe place and toward healing. This is exactly what our community leaders in the City of Wilton Manors did during the recent tragedy at the Stonewall Pride Parade. Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton, Vice Mayor Paul Rolli, Commissioner Chris Caputo, Commissioner Mike Bracchi, and Police Chief Gary Blocker showed great strength and professionalism during the recent tragedy at the Stonewall Pride Parade. Their calm comments and caring demeanor helped us get to the truth about what happened. We are grateful that they did not join other “leaders” who jumped to erroneous conclusions about the motivation behind this tragic event. Those irresponsible comments only fueled further trauma for our community and led to erroneous news reports by some in the media who took them at face value without investigating further. Thankfully, The South Florida Gay News practiced responsible journalism and helped keep our community informed and calm. We were very disappointed in Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis. We can only imagine how scary this must have been for him to witness but his comments were premature and irresponsible. His “apology” was equally insufficient and

the type of political double speak that gives politicians a bad name. His comments were themselves traumatizing to our community given the rash of hate that has been unleashed against LGBT people in our country recently. We know that Wilton Manors is an oasis of inclusion and a safe place for our all families, LGBT and our allies! Thank you to our Wilton Manors leaders for reminding everyone of our community’s values and why life is truly better here. We are so proud of how our city officials managed this situation. They were there at the scene and remained calm and professional. They made the decision to cancel the parade, which in our opinion, was the right call. Although we were all disappointed that the parade did not happen, we support and understand the importance of respecting those who were injured and also assuring that the community remained safe as the events unfolded. Our city leaders represented us at the Sunshine Cathedral Vigil on Sunday evening where they spoke with care and concern. We would also like to thank Police Chief Gary Blocker and the Wilton Manors Police Department for the constant communication and for keeping our city safe. We subscribe to the SaferWatch app, and all the messages sent by the WMPD during and after the crisis were very reassuring and timely. The chief handled this crisis with utmost professionalism in

The Stonewall Pride parade tragedy. Photo credit: Carina Mask.

what was perhaps his first major crisis as our new Chief of Police. Well done, chief! We are so lucky to have our own progressive police department in the City of Wilton Manors. Now we all will need to heal. We hope the members of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus can begin to heal and we keep them, including the man who died, the injured, and the driver involved in the accident, in our prayers. Their gift of music has built many bridges for our community over the years and they are truly a community treasure. We will all need to be there to support them as they

grieve and rise from this tragedy. To our Wilton Manors leaders, you made us very proud and provided the type of positive and factual leadership that we needed during this crisis. Thank you for keeping us safe and for showing true leadership. You provided just the right leadership to help our One Human Family during this terrible accident and reminded us why we love living in the Island City!

— Rudy Molinet & Jeff Shearer WILTON MANORS

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WILTON MANORS

Community and Religious Leaders Host Vigil After Stonewall Parade Accident By Christiana Lilly

More than 100 people attended the community prayer vigil at Sunshine Cathedral Sunday evening, hearing from community leaders and moving musical performances from singers and musicians. The vigil was organized after a man was killed and a second injured when a driver drove into the crowd at the Stonewall Parade Saturday evening in what police have determined was an accident. “This is a time when all of our sister organizations should come together to hold, to hug, to embrace, to grieve, to show empathy, and eventually to laugh,” said Robert Boo, the CEO of the Pride Center. “At the end of the day, this could have happened to any one of us. So please pray to whoever you pray, hold your positive thoughts, and let’s embrace each other and make sure that we represent the community to the outside world as best as we can.” Many community leaders spoke, broken up by musical performances from the South Florida Symphony Orchestra, Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida and Sunshine Cathedral, offering moving moments of reflection. A common theme throughout the evening was addressing the fear that many felt in the moment after the accident, with some thinking that it was a deliberate act. The Rev. Dr. Durrell Watkins, the senior minister of Sunshine Cathedral, was at the parade with his husband, the Rev. Dr. Robert Griffin, and shared he had the same thoughts. “I assumed because of the nature of where we were and the nature of who we are that maybe this was some sort of act of aggression,” he told the crowd at the start of the vigil. “It wouldn’t have been the first time, but it seems as if it were not another time, so we are glad of that.” The driver is a 77-year-old man who police say had “ailments’’ that caused him to lose control of his truck and accidentally crash into

the crowd at the start of the parade. The truck stopped when it crashed into a plant nursery. It later came out that the driver, as well as the two people he hit, are members of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus and that the incident was not intentional. One man was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital and the second is still being treated at Broward Health Medical Center. The chorus was not present at the vigil, but provided Boo with a statement on their behalf. “As our chorus family mourns together, we thank the community for their love and understanding,” he read from a piece of paper. “We’ll grieve in our way and when the time is right, we will celebrate the life of our passed chorus member and offer gratitude to everyone who showed compassion and forgiveness.” Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis was greeted with standing applause, then addressed his earlier comments of calling the incident a “terrorist attack against the LGBT community” and “hardly an accident.” He said that he was walking to the front of the parade line to where Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman-Schultz and Congressman Ted Deutch were when the truck broke through the barrier. “My visceral reaction was that we were being attacked. Why not? Why not feel that way? I guess I should watch to make sure there are no reporters standing by when I have those feelings,” he said. “But that was my first reaction and I regret the fact that I said it was a terrorist attack because we found out that it was not. But I don’t regret my feelings. I don’t regret that I felt terrorized by someone who plowed through the crowd, inches away

A common theme throughout the evening was addressing the fear that many felt in the moment after the accident, with some thinking that it was a deliberate act.

Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton, flanked by Commissioner Chris Caputo and Vice Mayor Paul Rolli, speaks to the crowd at a community prayer vigil at Sunshine Cathedral. Photo by Carina Mask.

from the congresswoman and congressman, myself, and others.” Trantalis mentioned an act of vandalism that occurred earlier this week, when a man also driving a white truck defaced the new Pride intersection in Delray Beach. Members of the Wilton Manors Commission also spoke and reiterated that the incident was an accident. “This was an accident. A pure accident,” Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton told the crowd, flanked by Wilton Manors Vice Mayor Paul Rolli and Commissioner Chris Caputo. “We have to pray for the one that died and that’s in the hospital, but we have to pray for the gentleman that [drove the truck] — I don’t

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know if I could live with something like that if it happened to me. So please pray for all of them. It’s unbelievable.” Newton shared that he spoke with a man at the parade who had asked the driver to please move his truck up a few inches, leading to the accident. The hour-long vigil was closed by Rabbi Noah Kitty of Congregation Etz Chaim. “In one of a tragically ironic turn of events, it was simply an accident and our community was just like regular folks,” she said before leading everyone in prayer. “It didn’t happen because we were LGBTQIA, or anything else. We don’t know why it happened. We know that it happened.”

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FEATURE

GAZETTE

Photo via PxHere.

NEWS

OAKLAND PARK

Oakland Park City Manager, City Attorney Receive Raises By Christiana Lilly

Vacation Rental Process

During the Oakland Park City Commission meeting on June 16, the commission voted to grant raises to the city manager and city attorney. David Hebert and D.J. Doody, respectively, had not received raises for years.

What Does It Take in Wilton and Oakland Park? By John McDonald

So you want to get into the vacation rental business? Well, to do it legally, it will cost you. Vacation rentals have been a hot topic lately with reports of wild parties and neighborhoods being transformed by the short-term market.

HERE’S THE PROCESS FOR WILTON MANORS:

HERE’S THE PROCESS FOR OAKLAND PARK:

STEP 1: Obtain a State of Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) license of transient public lodging establishment. Single rental unit annual fee $145, half year $77.50. Two to 25 units: $155 per year/ $82.50 half year.

STEP 2: Once license is in hand, apply for a Broward County Local Tax Receipt for a single resort dwelling ($22.50). Bring those documents along with Broward County Property Appraiser’s information sheet and/ or proof of ownership to city hall. STEP 3: Pay the registration fee ($500) for new vacation rental property or annual renewal fee for existing vacation rental property ($300). STEP 4: Pay the city’s Business Tax Receipt: $87.50 (Oct. 1 to March 31) or $43.75 (April 1 to Sept. 30). Annual renewal fee is $87.50. STEP 5: The city will review documents and provide recommendations for fire and code compliance inspections. Inspections are scheduled and if passed, the city issues a certificate of compliance and local business tax receipt. REMINDER: A Broward County Tourist Development Tax (6%) and Florida Department of Revenue sales surtax (6%) also applies to all transactions. ESTIMATED COST TO OPERATE A NEW VACATION RENTAL: $643-$765

STEP 2: Once license is in hand, apply for a Broward County Local Tax Receipt for a single resort dwelling ($22.50). Bring those documents along with Broward County Property Appraiser’s information sheet and/ or proof of ownership to city hall. STEP 3: City will review and charge a $250 registration fee for a new vacation rental property or $100 annual renewal fee for existing vacation rental property. STEP 4: Annual city inspection fee: $150 OPTIONAL STEPS: Fee to change rental agent: $50 Fee to modify registration: $50 REMINDER: A Broward County Tourist Development Tax (6%) and Florida Department of Revenue sales surtax (6%) also applies to all transactions. ESTIMATED COST TO OPERATE A NEW VACATION RENTAL: $500-$577.50

CITY MANAGER Hebert was given a $57,272 raise, bringing his base salary to $264,320. He was hired in 2014 with a salary of $170,000 — $10,000 lower than the bottom range advertised by the city during recruiting. He was also not entered into a benefit retirement plan, cell phone allowance, vehicle allowance or health insurance. Before the meeting, his base salary was $207,048; with “benefits and perks,” $263,553. “I’ve felt your commitment, I’ve felt your passion, your compassion for the job, and your love for the city,” Commissioner Aisha Gordon said of Hebert. “I see you as a visionary leader. I know sometimes things get pretty tough, especially with all of the moving parts in the job.” Hebert scored 4.35 out of 5 by the commission. The evaluations were done in private, but the rankings by each commissioner are public record. Katie Busch of Human Resources Compensation Consultants (HRCC) compared Hebert’s salary to “comparable” cities, showing his pay was below average. “When I think about the leadership of a CEO, city manager, I think he’s done an excellent job,” Mayor Jane Bolin said. “We just came out of a pandemic; we could have been in a much worse position, no doubt about it. To know that we don’t have [his salary] at a real competitive rate concerns me.” Commissioner Mitch Rosenwald took issue with HRCC’s “comparable cities,” in which it considered cities in close proximity to Oakland Park “where it’s highly likely that people will live and then be able to drive to Oakland Park to work,” Busch said. Rosenwald made a motion to have HRCC come back with comparisons of all 31 city and town managers in the county, which failed. “I don’t think these are the best numbers to look at,” Rosenwald said. “If I was to look at compensation, I would look at a combination of the variable of length of tenure … and the variable of city population.” Commissioner Matthew Sparks noted that while he was in favor of adjusting Hebert’s

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JUNE 24, 2021

Photo via Facebook.

pay, “all I’m saying is that if you agree to something, don’t agree to something you’re not willing to take,” he said in regards to the initial agreement he signed. The commission voted unanimously for the raise. CITY ATTORNEY Doody was given a raise to his hourly rate from $215 to $250 per hour. His rate was last adjusted in 2014. He has served as city attorney since 2001 and was also in that role from 1985 to 1997. In 2016, he was named Municipal Attorney of the Year. He is a shareholder at Fort Lauderdale firm Goren, Cherof, Doody & Ezrol, PA. Doody is paid for attending city commission and board meetings, working with consultants, and CRA-related issues. “I find it amazing that we have the services we have of Mr. Doody at $215 currently,” said Bolin, who is an attorney. “Mr. Doody is a partner at a very well-established firm; most partners at firms charge $400 to $500 [per hour] and that’s pretty standard. I was dumbfounded when I actually saw this.” Doody explained that $250 would be “current with what we are being compensated by other governmental entities,” and that as the interim city attorney for the town of Westlake, he makes $250 per hour. The commission voted unanimously for the raise.

COMMUNITY

WILTON MANORS

Wilton Manors Tables Train Talk New River Crossing Remains a Problem By John McDonald

An ordinance that would change land use regulations to make way for a potential train station was tabled at this week’s marathon Wilton Manors commission meeting. Ordinance No. 2021-011 from the Community Development Services Department amends land use regulations for a planned train station development. It was tabled after first reading shortly after the clock struck midnight on the June 22 meeting. For quite some time there has been talk of commuter rail service coming to Wilton Manors. At the May 25 commission meeting, City Manager Leigh Ann Henderson gave an update on the prospects of a commuter rail station. “The county and FDOT [Florida Department of Transportation] think they are moving with intensity and enthusiasm and are prepared to kick off public discussions at the end of summer,” Henderson said. Studies and technical analysis have been going on for years. The original plan was to route passengers from Jupiter to Miami and back on the Florida East Coast Railway tracks. The proposal called for 25 stations along the 85-mile route. Then Brightline entered the picture. The privately funded company offered express train service and built sleek stations in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Ben Porritt, senior vice president of Corporate Affairs at Brightline, said it appears all of the stakeholders are at the table and a deal is within reach. “We’re providing the tracks to lift up commuter rail,” Porritt said. Preliminary station screening began more than 10 years ago looking at Aventura to Deerfield Beach with a Tri-Rail cross-over in Pompano Beach. Nine areas in Broward County were studied for six stations. Three areas are called paired stations. Wilton Manors and Oakland Park are paired together and ultimately one station

will be recommended by FDOT to Broward County. Henderson said FDOT is running technical analysis through 2022 and drafting a financial plan to present at the end of the year. Wilton Manors Commissioner Mike Bracchi said the city needs to step up its public relations efforts. “Oakland Park always seems to be one step ahead,” Bracchi said. “We need to have a good PR campaign that’s putting Wilton Manors out there as the destination.” Bracchi said talk of a Wilton Manors train station is exciting. “It would be really good for our city,” he added. Several residents voiced support for train travel at the June 22 meeting, but were not convinced it would become a reality in the Island City. “I support commuter rail on the FEC tracks but am doubtful we will have a train station in our city,” said Paul Kuta. Henderson said changes in density to the land use code and being three miles from the downtown Fort Lauderdale station fits perfectly in the FDOT plan. Mayor Scott Newton said Wilton Manors has people interested in train travel and the city’s transit-oriented corridors (TOCs) provide an added boost. “I think we have more people that would ride it now,” Newton said. “The TOCs we have now make a big difference.” At the June 22 meeting, former mayor John Fiore said Wilton Manors was the first city to fund the county’s initial light rail study decades ago. Fiore said the proposed station site south of Northeast 26th Street is the “wrong location.” Meanwhile, Broward Mayor Steve Geller said the decision on where to place the station

There are two schools of thought on the New River crossing. One camp is advocating for a bridge, while another wants a tunnel.

Photo via Brightline, Facebook.

is on hold until the coastal link can get across the New River. “The bigger issue is there is a river in the way,” Geller said. A standoff over how to get over the New River and not shut down the region’s vital marine industry has rendered the competition for stations a sideshow. “You can’t decide where to put something until you figure out how to do it,” he said. There are two schools of thought on the New River crossing. One camp is advocating for a bridge, while another wants a tunnel. Geller said Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis is “vehemently opposed” to a bridge. Fort Lauderdale officials have been courting The Boring Company, founded by tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, for a tunnel construction. “We don’t know how it would work,” Geller

said. “We’re really the guinea pig here. Our engineers are telling us this has been designed before for cars but not trains.” Boring’s current tunnel designs in California and Nevada have involved working with rock as opposed to Florida’s coral. “You don’t have to dig very deep here before you hit the water table,” Geller said. The New River Crossing Feasibility Study offered three different bridge heights: 80, 56.5, and 21 feet and a tunnel 63 feet underground. “We all recognize the need for an alternative crossing,” said Porritt. Porritt declined to give his preference on the four options for crossing the New River as did Tri-Rail Executive Director Steven Abrams. “That’s a classic local decision,” said Abrams.

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COMMUNITY

WILTON MANORS

COMMUNITY

Pride Accident Casts Shadow Over Tuesday’s Commission Meeting By John McDonald

Wilton Manors Commissioner Chris Caputo. Photo credit: Carina Mask.

Commissioners Push Through Development Changes In Marathon Meeting Density will increase to 60 units per acre By John McDonald Talk about burning the midnight oil. redshirted residents to speak in opposition Tuesday’s commission meeting lasted five to the increased density. The group expressed hours and 37 minutes and did not end until concerns about traffic, stressed infrastructure and crime as reasons to not raise density after midnight. regulations. It was noted the During the marathon city’s two most recent highmeeting Wilton Manors rise housing developments Commissioners pushed — Wilton Station and the forward changes to the city’s Metropolitan — were built on land use regulations. a 25 units per gross acre model. Ordinance 2020-013 was Eventually, Commissioner passed by the commission Gary Resnick, attending on second reading. The virtually via Zoom, grew tired ordinance changes density of the circular discussions and in city land use from 25 logged off before midnight, to 60 units per gross acre. saying he wasn’t comfortable Commissioner Chris Caputo making any more changes was happy with the outcome. without public feedback. “After hearing from “Wilton Manors is a residents both for and against community rich with the increase in density to 60 compassion and love,” said units per acre in our transitWilton Manors Commissioner Vice Mayor Paul Rolli. “We are oriented corridors, the a family and like all families, we commission unanimously don’t always get along, but we passed the proposal,” Caputo said. “This is the right step forward for smart, all come together in support and love during difficult times. This is Wilton Manors and why responsible growth in our city.” Former Mayor John Fiore led a group of we all live here.”

“This is the right step forward for smart, responsible growth in our city.” - Chris Caputo

Tuesday’s commission was filled with drama and storylines. Mayor Scott Newton started the proceedings by recognizing the fallout from Saturday’s Stonewall Pride event where a man was killed and three others injured when a truck crashed into the parade. “It was a tragic accident,” Newton said. “These families need our love and support.” Newton said that includes the truck driver, 77-year-old Fred Johnson, Jr., a member of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus. “Fred Johnson is a wonderful person,” Newton said. Michael Rajner, a longtime South Florida LGBT rights activist, criticized Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis’ response to the incident which generated headlines across the country. “Dean needs to grow up,” Rajner said. “And stop attacking this man [Johnson].” Trantalis initially felt it was an act of domestic terrorism, telling WPLG Local 10 News at the scene: “This is a terrorist attack against the LGBT community. This is exactly what it is. Hardly an accident. It was deliberate. It was premeditated and it was targeted against a specific person.” Photo credit: Carina Mask. Trantalis has since walked back that statement, but is not OTHER TIDBITS FROM apologizing for how THE MEETING INCLUDE: he felt at the moment. Michael Rajner, Rajner, who had been • Commissioner Gary Resnick, who preparing to view the a longtime South via Zoom, grew tired of the parade from a balcony Florida LGBT rights attended circular discussions and logged off overlooking Wilton before midnight, saying he wasn’t Drive, said Trantalis activist, criticized comfortable making any more changes didn’t want to wait 10 Fort Lauderdale without public feedback. minutes to speak with the police command Mayor Dean • The commission changed density in and his remarks to the Trantalis’ response city land use from 25 to 60 units per press could have caused gross acre. a stampede of people to the incident clogging escape routes which generated • Wilton Manors Police Chief Gary and creating more Blocker announced a partnership with potential harm. headlines across Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward “Dean continues to the country. County to pair officers with students deflect and attack a poor at Fort Lauderdale High School and old man,” Rajner said. Wilton Manors Elementary School. Rajner was one of many people to speak during the public comments portion of the meeting, but a • City Manager Leigh Ann Henderson majority were focused on planning and announced Fort Lauderdale has agreed to complete the rainbow painting of the “Love zoning changes that later passed. The meeting lasted five hours and 37 Wins” bridge it shares with Wilton Manors. minutes.

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JUNE 24, 2021

LIFESTYLE PHOTOS

FEATURE PRIDE

Left to right: Jason Nidorf, Michael Musto, Stephen Fry, and Rick Copp. Photos via Twitter.

PRIDE MONTH

WHEN DID YOU KNOW? Pier Angelo

Jason Nidorf

Stephen John Fry

Jason Nidorf “Max” Mutchnick is an American television producer. He has received an Emmy Award, a People’s Choice Award, and several Golden Globe Award nominations.

Stephen John Fry is an English actor, broadcaster, comedian, director, and writer. He first came to prominence in the 1980s as one half of the comic double act Fry and Laurie, alongside Hugh Laurie, with the two starring in A Bit of Fry & Laurie and Jeeves and Wooster.

Born: November 11, 1965 (age 55 years), Chicago, IL Children: 2 Spouse(s): Erik Hyman (m. 2008) Movies: Will & Grace, Will and Grace - Season 5, Will and Grace - Season 6, Strange Brew, Clipped When asked when did he know he was gay, he replied: “When I outgrew my mother’s high heels.”

Michael Musto Michael Musto is an American journalist who has long been a prevalent presence in entertainment-related publications, as well as on websites and television shows. Born: December 3, 1955 (age 65 years), Brooklyn, New York, NY When asked when did he know he was gay, he replied: “When the hormones first came at age 7, I actually thought I could go either way, feeling so overwhelmingly sexual, but clearly I had entered my first self-delusion. I prayed to God to make me like women, it would have made things so much easier but even He had no interest in straightening out the little nelly. By the time Tarzan hit the tube with hot Ron Ely in the loinclothed leading role, I knew my place and was proud of it, becoming totally hooked on homo.”

AMFIL

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LAUNCHES

Take a look back at the AmFil Chamber of Commerce Launch and Networking Event at Bubbles N’ Pearls in Wilton Manors on March 26. The chamber aims to “help establish, grow, and strengthen a network of Filipino American businesses and entrepreneurs in South Florida.” The event was sponsored by Don Papa Rum, Topo Chico Sparkling Water, Trader Joe’s and Bubbles N’ Pearls. Photo credit: Carina Mask. To see more, visit SFGN on Facebook.

Born: 24 August 1957 (age 63); London, England Spouse(s): Elliott Spencer; (m. 2015) When asked when did he know he was gay, he replied: “When I was born, I remember looking back up at my mother and saying, ‘That’s the last time I’m going up one of those.’”

Rick Copp Rick Copp is an American television writer, story editor, producer and occasional actor. He was executive story editor for 11 episodes and writer for two episodes of the short-lived 1991 NBC sitcom Flesh ‘n’ Blood. He also wrote for Flying Blind, The Golden Girls and Wings, among others. Born: August 20, 1964 (age 56 years), Bar Harbor, ME Books: The Actor’s Guide to Murder, The Actor’s Guide to Greed Movies: Where the Bears Are 2, Where the Bears Are When asked when did he know he was gay, he replied: “People always remember where they were when the heard the news that President Kennedy had been shot, I wasn’t born until a year after but I sure as hell remember exactly what I was doing on that fateful day in 1977 when Farrah Fawcett announced that she would not return for a second season of Charlie’s Angels.”

and

6 . 24 . 20 21 •

LIFESTYLE CELEBRITY

BY ELLIOT RODRIGUEZ

GAY VINE THE

KEEP UP WITH THE CELEBRITIES IN OUR COMMUNITY

FILM

TELEVISION

FINGERS CROSSED!

HOT IN HERE!

COULD ‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’ PREQUEL FEATURE A GAY COUPLE? For all the “Beauty and the Beast” fans out there, it is in your best interest to know that a prequel of the 2017 live action film is in the works. Deadline states that it will be an eightepisode musical series on Disney+. This prequel will focus on Gaston and LeFou, played by Luke Evans and Josh Gad. With the role of Tilly, LeFou’s stepsister, played by Briana Middleton as the female lead. The previous show in 2017 sparked a debated controversy for the show’s “gay moment,” where the two characters share a dance. Pride writes, “The scene was groundbreaking in the sense that it finally confirmed for audiences that LeFou’s affections for his hunky BFF, Gaston [played by gay actor Evans], could

Image courtesy of Disney.

possibly be more than platonic.” If that’s not enough to get people excited for the upcoming prequel, would it seal the deal to find out that Alan Menken will score the movie! Yes, EGOT winner, and composer for almost all the classic Disney scores we know and love will be handling the music for the upcoming prequel. Catch the limited series of “Beauty and the Beast” prequel on Disney+.

NEW SHOW TO DECIDE THE NEXT QUEER SEX ICON It seems as if everyone wants to be a sex symbol, a central figure of sensual feelings and good times. Some prominent examples are Beyoncé, the late Prince and a variety of others. Now what would happen if a show was made to see who would be the next sex symbol? Well, you would get “Hot Haus.” The new reality show coming in fall to see who will become the next queer sex icon. According to Pride, the show is advertised as “Queer sex workers and sex-positive content creators [who] compete in a series of titillating challenges to claim the title of the Next Queer Sex Symbol.” This new reality television series was made up by the same team that brought you “Slag Wars.”

Photo via Adobe.

Topher Cusumano, executive producer and showrunner, told Rollingstone, “With ‘Hot Haus,’ we’re trying to remove some of that stigma and amplify all of the beauty, diversity, and talent that comes from queer, sex-positive creators. This show isn’t going to be trauma porn. It’s going to be a celebration.”

CELEBRITY

JUST A GIRL!

RENOWNED ACTRESS RELEASES DOCUMENTARY Now the name Rita Moreno needs no explanation, but just in case you are not aware of the EGOT-winning actress, her 70-year career span of her being a singer, actress and dancer is filled with numerous musical classics such as “West Side Story,” “Singing in the Rain,” and more. The latest installment in Moreno’s career is her brand-new documentary “Just a Girl Who Decided to Go for It.” The documentary’s Instagram shows Moreno’s on-screen work as well as off-screen work, to give people a sneak peek into some of the things that the documentary will cover. Such as her illustrious career, along

• 6 . 24.2021

with her voice during the March on Washington for the Civil Rights Movement. Moreno has also cultivated a loyal queer fanbase throughout her long-lived career. Moreno told Pride, “I don’t have anything to say differently than I would to my own people because we were all outliers! If you’re gay, you’re an outlier. I’m Puerto Rican and I’ve been an outlier most of my life. So I’m thrilled to pieces to expose those parts of my life that were difficult and that I was able in some way or another to help myself out of.” Catch Moreno’s “Just a Girl Who Decided to Go for It” in theaters.

Rita Moreno in “Rita Moreno: Just a Girl Who Decided to Go For It.” Image via Facebook.

LIFESTYLE PHOTOS

COMING SOON... S O U T H

BEHIND THE SCENES,

F L O R I D A

G A Y

N E W S

BEFORE THE GALA

On May 26, the National LGBTQ Task Force held a reception to kick off the 25th National LGBTQ Task Force Gala. The event was hosted at R House Wynwood and featured cocktails and food as plans were revealed for the Gala in October. Pictured here were guests were Mario Schaver (left) and Juan Buch from Latinos Salud. Photo credit: J.R. Davis. To see more, visit SFGN on Facebook.

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ON STANDS THE FIRST WEEK OF JULY! 6 . 24 . 20 21 •

LIFESTYLE FOOD

SAME PLATES, NEW PLACES Rick Karlin

FOXY BROWN

476 N Federal, Fort Lauderdale 754-200-4236 Foxybrownftl.com

he Be Nice chain has moved one of its flagship restaurants, the beloved Foxy Brown, but they’ve managed to stay in the same neighborhood; relocating a few blocks east and north from the more established southwest corner of Victoria Park to the trendy southeast corner. Although it has lost a bit of the charm of the old place, which felt like a hidden gem, it’s more than compensated for by the easier parking situation. Many of the classic dishes still adorn the menu, including the signature patty melt, but there are a few additions as well. We stopped by on an early Sunday evening, managing to find the sweet spot between the hectic brunch service and busy dinner rush. Still, we were asked to wait for all of our party to arrive before we were seated. I understand enforcing that policy during busy times, but at that moment there was only one outdoor table occupied, while at least a dozen sat empty. That proved to be the only snag in an enjoyable meal and the attentive service from Brandon, who explained that it was his first day. He was attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, exactly what a server should be. We began by sharing a delightful appetizer of fried hearts of palm. Slices of the beautifully tender shoot were coated in a light tempura batter and served with sriracha aioli. One basket was easily enough for four to share. Other starter options include deep-fried green beans, grilled artichoke, pretzel bread served with a duo of deviled ham and beer cheese spread, classic French onion soup, maple bacon wings, house-made Stracciatella (the creamy heart of mozzarella) and mussels, Sandwiches average $15 and come with a choice of sides: French fries, tomato wedges, fried Brussel sprouts, deviled eggs, coleslaw,

THERE’S MORE ONLINE! 36

• 6 . 24.2021

garlic-parmesan fries, mashed potato, or the vegetable of the day. My hubby went with his fallback option, the veggie burger, made in-house and topped with provolone, a fried tomato, and fresh spinach. Other sandwich selections include a meatball grinder, grilled chicken with bacon, mahi-mahi (simply seasoned or blackened), and, what I’m getting on my next visit, short rib grilled cheese. Entrée salads average $12 and include a grains and greens bowl, the house salad (a Panzanella), pork, and a grilled Caesar Salad. Salads can be topped with a choice of chicken, shrimp, mahi-mahi, or salmon for an upcharge. My lovely sister-in-law opted for the day’s salad special: grilled peaches atop a bed of arugula and adorned with prosciutto and five perfectly grilled jumbo shrimp. It was beautifully presented (much like my sister-inlaw). The entrée selections are just as inventive and varied as the rest of the menu. The dishes range from innovative takes on childhood favorites such as Beef-a-Roni (combining house braised short rib ragout, local ricotta cheese, and tender pasta) and classics such as fish and chips, chicken with spaetzle, pork chops, pot roast, and roasted chicken. A grilled veggie plate featuring grilled artichoke with quinoa & farro salad, pan-seared sea scallops, and crab cakes are available for those seeking something lighter. My brother-in-law and I both opted for the day’s steak special, grilled T-bone. It was a thinner cut than you might expect for a $31 price tag, but both arrived as ordered. Mine was a little gristly, but my brother-in-law’s steak was perfectly tender. Of course, Foxy’s is known for its awardwinning Saturday and Sunday brunch, and it too has made the move over beautifully. The pancake offerings are numerous. In addition to the standard version and weekend special, there are bananas Foster and raspberry and white chocolate versions. Waffle options are just as varied, including s’mores, and strawberries, and cream combinations, or slider-sized and topped with fried chicken,

Palm Fries at Foxy Brown. Photo via Facebook. cheese, “Proper” bacon, and jalapeño jam. French toast gets all gussied up with white chocolate chips, caramel, blueberries, and granola. There are three versions of the classic Benedict; crab cake, veggie cake, or braised short rib (topped with chimichurri hollandaise!) For those seeking a more traditional repast, there are steak and eggs, hangar steak hash, classic eggs and bacon or sausage, a pair of frittatas, and a breakfast sandwich. There is a full bar and extensive wine selection. During happy hour (Monday Friday from 4 – 6 p.m.) there is a half-priced appetizer menu and a buck off wine and beer by the glass, $2 off cocktails. Tuesdays and Wednesdays many bottles of wine are available at half-price bottles. If you haven’t tried Foxy Brown yet, you’d better before the many folks living in the apartment buildings popping up just east of Federal discover it. It’s still a terrific neighborhood spot, just in a more congested neighborhood.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? 

Musical Chairs There’s been a lot of moving around of restaurants lately. PHAT BOY SUSHI on North Federal moved a couple of blocks south to take over the space formerly occupied by Even Keel. Meanwhile, KEEL moved over to the corner of Commercial and A1A in Lauderdale by the Sea. Nick’s, the landmark Italian spot on Galt Ocean Mile had no sooner put up the out of business sign than CAFÉ VICO swooped in. And, of course, HAMBURGER MARY’S opened in the space formerly occupied by Rumors (if it hasn’t already done so by the time you’re reading this).

VISIT SFGN.COM/FOOD!

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

CRITICS POUNCE ON MAYOR FOR HEAT-OF-MOMENT (BUT WRONG) ASSERTION PARADE CRASH WAS TERRORISM AGAINST LGBT COMMUNITY Visit SFGN.com to find out more.

CHECK WEBSITES AND FACEBOOK PAGES FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION REGARDING IN PERSON ATTENDANCE OF SERVICES AS WELL AS VIRTUAL VIEWING OPTIONS.

We close out Pride month by resuming in-person services!

Join us every Friday night at 8pm We’re getting back together again – Welcome home! Your community shul welcoming LGBTQIA Jews & allies since 1974

Our Shabbat service can also be viewed on Facebook Live Every Friday at 8pm

Congregation Etz Chaim

2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, on the Pride Center campus www.EtzChaimFlorida.org / RSVP HERE: info@etzchaimflorida.org

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

SPIRITUALITY

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

Join us for masked, socially distanced in person worship. 11 AM Sundays. Services also LIVE-streamed on Facebook and posted on website for safe at home viewing.

“Love without judgement” Holy Angels National Catholic Church 1436 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors. 33305 Facebook.com/HolyAngelsFL www.HolyAngelsFL.org

954-633-2987

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

SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM

LISTINGS CONGREGATION ETZ CHAIM 2038 N. Dixie Hwy (Pride Center Building B), Wilton Manors 954-564-9232 - etzchaimflorida.org RabbiNoahKitty@etzchaimflorida.org Friday Night Shabbat Service 8p.m. HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 1436 NE 26th St Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM

CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR, MCC Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 S. Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach. churchofoursaviormcc.org | 561-733-4000 Sunday Service 10AM TEMPLE BAT YAM 5151 NE 14th Ter Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 954-928-0410 Friday Night & Saturday Morning Streaming Online at templebatyam.org

6 . 24 . 20 21 •

A&E APPOINTMENTS The French coming-of-age film “Summer of ‘85” opens OUTshine Film Festival’s summer series in Fort Lauderdale. Courtesy photo.

ARTSBEAT SUMMER FILMS AND DRAG FUN J.W. Arnold OUTSHINE ANNOUNCES BROWARD SUMMER SERIES The OUTshine LGBT Film Festival recently announced the bill for its summer 954 Glow series screenings at the Gateway Cinema, 1820 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale, and on demand. The series opens June 26 at the Gateway with “Summer of ’85,” a tender coming-of-age story set in Normandy, France, and from June 27 – July 4, LGBT cinephiles can enjoy “Give or Take” from the comfort of their homes. A disillusioned New Yorker must cope with his father’s death — and his dad’s live-in boyfriend who remains in the family home. An aging hairdresser escapes his nursing home and embarks on an odyssey across his small town to style a dead woman’s hair for her funeral, rediscovering his sparkle along the way, in “Swan Song,” screening at the Gateway on July 24 and online July 25 – Aug. 1. “My First Summer” will be shown on Aug. 21 and online Aug. 22 – 29. In this drama, two girls, both outcasts yet with very different personalities, become friends and then more as they find strength in each other after a tragedy. The closing film of the series — to be announced later — will be presented live at the Gateway on Sept. 18, with online viewing available Sept. 19 – 26. Tickets for in-theater screenings are $5 and virtual screenings are by donation at OUTshineFilm.com.

LATRICE ROYALE GOES GLAMPING WITH JACK DANIELS Can’t get enough of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” fan favorite Latrice Royale? She’s teaming up with fellow alums Bebe Zahara Benet, Trinity the Tuck and Manila Luzon for the “Drag Queen Summer Glamp” presented by Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire. The fabulous trio star in a three episode streaming series completing various glamping-inspired challenges with help from the distillery’s staff. From BBQing outdoors to burning charcoal in the rickyard, Bebe, Trinity and Manila will put the “glam” in glamping as they learn the art of whiskey making and educate locals about drag culture during Pride Month. Royale will be making surprise appearances this weekend at South Florida gay bars and clubs to support local small businesses and promote the Summer Glamp Sweepstakes, with one lucky winner taking home a $750 gift card and glamping kit. For more information and to watch “Drag Queen Summer Glamp,” go to JackFirePride.com.

PRIDE MONTH DOUBLE BILL AT FAU THEATER LAB

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• 6 . 24.2021

The Theater Lab at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton will be offering readings of two new audio plays on Sunday, June 27 in University Theater: “Blood Sisters” by Andie Arthur, the story of two young lesbians caught in the midst of the AIDS epidemic, at 2 p.m. and “Versace Era” by Juan Sanchez, a look at gay life in 1990s South Beach, at 4:30 p.m. Both plays are part of the Fair Play Initiative supported in part by Our Fund. Both readings are free, but registration is required at FAU.edu/ArtsAndLetters/Theatre/. Masks are required in campus facilities.

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FRIENDS REMEMBER JAMES FAHY, VICTIM OF PRIDE PARADE ACCIDENT Full Charge Bookkeeping Services

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riends and colleagues of James Fahy describe him as a kind, friendly man and a dedicated member of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus (FTLGMC). Fahy, 75, was killed Saturday, June 19 by a fellow member of the chorus in a tragic automobile accident at the start of the Stonewall Wilton Manors Pride Parade. Two other chorus members were hurt, one of whom was seriously injured. He was discharged from the hospital Monday. In a statement following the incident, FTLGMC President Justin Knight said Fahy was “a longtime, valued member of our Chorus family and he will be deeply missed.” “I don’t want to use a cliché, but we’re all a family. It does apply in this instance,” said chorus member Tom Cusack. Fahy, a second tenor, “was a quiet guy, always smiling. He loved Christmas music and especially the Christmas concert.” Another chorus member, Bradley Bush, recalled Fahy’s beautiful voice and noted, “Jim never needed to be out in front with solos. He was happy doing what he was doing.” Both credited Fahy, who joined the chorus three years ago, as a committed volunteer who helped whenever needed and never missed a rehearsal. Bush noted that many gay men’s choruses across the country were formed in the 1980s to sing at the funerals of AIDS victims. FTLGMC performed at hundreds of services since and said of those lost friends, “They’re never forgotten and Jim won’t be forgotten.” Cusack added, “We want to come back and sing to show we can overcome anything and honor Jim by singing again. He will always be in our memory. We can’t stop.” Outside of the chorus, Fahy worked as a port cruise agent for Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises and as an activity specialist for AHRC, a nonprofit organization that provides services to people with developmental disabilities, according to his LinkedIn profile. He studied at Loyola Universities in Chicago and Baltimore and completed an advanced certificate in disability studies

James Fahy was a dedicated member of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus. Photo via Facebook.

from the City University of New York in 2013. SFGN Publisher Norm Kent remembered Fahy coming into the newspaper’s office each week: “He would come by the office every Thursday to take two bundles of the paper to his building at the Galt Ocean Mile. He just wanted to make sure everyone in his building got the newspaper.” Realtor Anthony Michael Kulp met Fahy shortly after he moved to South Florida and socialized with him often at Fort Lauderdale Prime Gentlemen social club events and Matty’s Wilton Park. He said, “From the very beginning Jim engaged with the community and the people he met. Jim was so passionate about the chorus. He was always handing out information for the next concert and, in only the way Jim could do, he made you feel like you would be missing the most important event of the year.” Summing up the feelings of many who knew Fahy, Kulp added, “I know without a doubt Jim will be an angel looking over the chorus during every event.”

Funeral arrangements for James Fahy are pending and will be announced at a future date.

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LGBTQ CRITICS MOVE TO GENDERNEUTRAL CATEGORIES FOR TV AWARDS

FX’s “Pose” received the most 2021 Dorian Award nominations from the LGBTQ Entertainment Critics Association. Credit: FX.

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ALECA: The Society of LGBTQ Entertainment Critics, comprised of over 300 entertainment journalists in the U.S. and abroad (including SFGN A&E editor J.W. Arnold), has announced its 2021 Dorian TV Award nominations. In recent years, the Dorians have become an increasingly important milestone in the race to the Emmys and Oscars. The final season of “Pose,” FX’s powerful found-family drama about New York’s ballroom scene, was the favorite with LGBTQ critics with six nods, starting with Best TV Drama. Disney+’s TV-spoofing Marvel fantasy “WandaVision” was close behind with five nominations. Three HBO offerings snagged four nominations each: HBO’s grim Kate Winsletlead murder mystery “Mare of Easttown” and vividly frank trauma tale “I May Destroy You,” as well as the heartrending AIDS crisis drama “It’s a Sin” on spinoff network HBO Max. Spurred by passionate pleas in trade

publication editorials by non-binary activists, as well as non-binary journalists and others within GALECA’s own ranks, the association recently voted to make all Dorian performance categories gender-neutral. Aiming to alleviate concerns that the elimination of gendered acting categories would cut the number of nomination-worthy roles by half — and leave out artists that might otherwise be recognized — critics moved to increase nominees from five to 10 for Best TV Performance and Best Supporting TV Performance. In the primary performance category, venerable stars like Winslett (“Easttown”), Jean Smart (“Hacks”) and past Dorian Award winner Billy Porter (“Pose”) are up against rising talents like “I May Destroy You” creator Michaela Coel and Thuso Mbedu (“The Underground Railroad”). In the supporting race, Dorian final-ballot voters will choose from the likes of Gillian

Anderson (“The Crown”, John Boyega (“Small Axe”), Saturday Night Live’s latest breakout Bowen Yang and “Easttown” standout Julianne Nicholson. Showing the medium is still thriving amid a pandemic, GALECA’s short-list picks include lots of first-season shows, including the dramas “Bridgerton,” “Lovecraft Country” and “P-Valley,” the over-the-top showbiz satires “Girls5eva” (produced by Tina Fey) and “Hacks,” and Best Current Affairs Show contenders “Ziwe” and “The Amber Ruffin Show.”

And holding court in the group’s trademark Campiest TV Show category: The annual flashy and drama-filled live music performance battle “Eurovision Song Contest,” the nasty nurse rehash “Ratched,” the ultra-irreverent “WandaVision,” and more. “I’m so proud,” said GALECA’s newly elected president Monika Estrella Negra. “Our group’s nominations are diverse and fresh, signaling the overhaul of invisibility of marginalized communities and the heralding of a new generation of entertainment journalists.”

GALECA’s Dorian TV Award winners will be announced Sunday, August 29 in an on-demand streaming special. For more information , go to GALECA.org.

To see the full list of nominees, visit SFGN.com/kx8yw.

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