8/15/18 V9i33

local name global coverage August 15, 2018 vol. 9 // issue 33

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Social media does it harm or heal?

Pages 27-44

SouthFloridaGayNews

@SFGN

SFGN.com

8.15.2018 •

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NEWS local

SouthFloridaGayNews.com

Puerto Rico Pride via Facebook

@SFGN

August 15, 2018 • Volume 9 • Issue 33

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

Publisher • Norm Kent Norm.Kent@sfgn.com

Chief Executive Officer • Pier Angelo Guidugli piero@sfgn.com Associate Publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com

Editorial

Leaders of Pride Fort Lauderdale Go on ‘Pride Tour’ Rick Karlin

R

einventing Pride Fort Lauderdale after a series of scandals and fiascoes is no easy feat. The fact that Miik Martorelli was able to do so, and then build on that success the following year is quite an accomplishment.

But rather than merely bask in the glow of his success Martorelli and many of the volunteer board members have been traveling to, and volunteering at Pride festivals across the country, at their own expense.

“We’ve learned a lot,” Martorelli said.

“Words cannot express the thrill that came with volunteering at New York Pride, where 1.5 million people came together for a day, and at events in small cities where Pride is that one day each year when residents can come out and celebrate their sexual orientation and gender identity. These trips also offered an opportunity to promote our own event with Pride organizers across the country.”

This so-called Pride Tour travels to Pride events and festivals around the country to study best practices and further develop relationships.

Martorelli has visited or volunteered at more than 50 different Prides in the U.S., Puerto Rico,

Canada, Spain and Denmark (all on his own dime). According to Martorelli, these visits are not only a chance to promote Fort Lauderdale’s Pride celebration, they also provide an opportunityan opportunity to lend a hand and learn from other Pride organizations.

“That’s the beauty of the Pride movement,” he said. “We all have so much to share with each other and Pride Fort Lauderdale benefits from the great ideas and best practices we pick up on the Pride Tour.”

Since June, volunteers have participated in more than a dozen Pride festivals including New York City, Baltimore, San Francisco, San Diego and Dallas, as well as smaller communities such as Roanoke, Virginia.

In coming months, they will travel to Atlanta, Las Vegas and Palm Springs.

For more distant Prides, they travel by air.

Most travel is done at board members’ expense.

Many use their own, or donated frequent flier miles or credit card points.

When they arrive at their destination they share accommodations, often three and four or more to a room. Martorelli and the board have M E M B E R excessive been very cognizant of not using MEMBER

funds from their budget to subsidize travel, accommodations or meals on Pride Tour trips.

Only about 1 percent of their budget is used to send extra volunteers to some of the bigger prides.

Generally, two to six people will attend an event, depending on its size, expense and ease of traveling and availability. In addition to staffing the booth, volunteers help with set-up and tear-down, served as money runners and finance managers, worked as parade marshals, and ticket sales. The members roll up their sleeves and get involved, to see what works best and pick up new ideas, many of which end up incorporated into PFL. At the Pride Fort Lauderdale booth at these festivals, visitors can pick up information about PFL, area restaurants, clubs, attractions, and enter to win an all-expenses paid trip for two to PFL by visiting the group’s Facebook page.

Next year’s Pride Fort Lauderdale will take place Feb. 21-24. Visit PrideFortLauderdale.org for more information.

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NLGJA Journalist of the Year South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community.

All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs.

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MEMBER

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NEWS online

Action Online

Don't miss the

LGBT Activists Counter Protest, Outnumber Alt-Right Demonstrators

Photo from Michael Key of the Washington Blade

Out Actress Ruby Rose Quits Twitter After Batwoman Backlash

Minister in Poland Calls LGBT March A ‘Parade of Sodomites’

Virginia Man Arrested for 2017 Murder of Gay Activist

James M. Wheeler was charged with second-degree murder in the death of Bruce Garnett, who was stabbed to death in 2017. (Photo courtesy Chesterfield County Police)

Ex-MMA Fighter Could Become First Lesbian Native American Congresswoman

New TSA Bill Seeks to Improve Screening for Trans Passengers Rep. Kathleen Rice (D-N.Y.) has introduced the Screening With Dignity Act. (Photo by Nymetsfan8790 via Creative Commons)

MegaCon Fan Convention Comes to Tampa Bay Costa Rica Must Legalize Same-Sex Marriage within 18 Months DC Confirms Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy as Married in Video Game Prequel Photo: DC Comics

Vermont Exec Would be Nation’s First Transgender Governor

Visit SFGN.com to stay up to date on all the news across the web!

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NEWS state

Laverne Cox Criticizes Jacksonville Police for Deadnaming Problem Emily Bloch

W

hen Laverne Cox contemplated respect the gender identities of trans folks suicide, she planned to leave a note when they have been MURDERED. This in her pocket listing her name, misgendering and deadnaming also impedes preferred gender, pronouns and the fact that the investigations into these murders.” she should be referred to as a woman.

According to ProPublica, police that The actress wrote about that dark time routinely use victims’ preferred names and last night on Twitter after reading about pronouns said it was an effort to keep a Florida’s Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. relationship between the police agency and Last week, ProPublica the transgender community. released an in-depth report But JSO told the publication it “I have been revealing that out of the 85 was following policy, “which saying for years cases of transgender people is to identify people based on that misgendering being murdered the publication a medical examiner’s report a trans person is looked at, 74 were identified and whatever name and by names or genders they no sex are listed on their state an act of violence. longer identify with. identification.”

When I say that, As noted in the report, the In response to public outrage, I am referring deadnaming — calling a trans some police departments have to cultural person by a name they no longer promised to do better. JSO “has use — was especially glaring in not publicly acknowledged or and structural Jacksonville, the largest city by apologized for misgendering violence.” area in the country and the 12th and misnaming transgender - Laverne Cox most populous. victims,” ProPublica reported.

In Jacksonville, four black But in a recent interview, trans women were shot, three Sheriff Mike Williams said fatally, within the last six months. there had been a “lack of sensitivity.”

“In public statements and official As noted by the report, the community documents, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office pressure may have had an effect with JSO has repeatedly identified the victims as announcing a new group of officers that will men, refusing to call them by the names serve as liaisons to the LGBT community they chose to use in their lives,” ProPublica earlier this month. reported.

“I have been saying for years that Following the story’s release, Cox issued a misgendering a trans person is an act of statement on Twitter. violence. When I say that, I am referring to “As I read this report from ProPublica I cultural and structural violence,” Cox said sobbed and wept for all the trans people in her statement. “The police misgendering who have been murdered,” she said. “I am and deadnaming trans murder victims as angered, saddened and enraged that the a matter of policy feels like a really good police in Jacksonville, Florida and other example of that cultural and structural jurisdictions don’t have policies in place to violence.”

8.15.2018 •

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LGBTQIA bites

T

TRANSGENDER

Human Rights Watchdog Promotes trans Rights to Fertility Services

By Hope Benson

L

LESBIAN

Lesbian Actress to Play Lesbian Batwoman on Television

Via Facebook

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is threatening legal action against England’s National Health Service (NHS), claiming that fertility services are not equally available to transgender patients.

Removing and storing eggs and sperm gives transgender people the chance to have biological children after their transition. But many clinical commissioning groups that plan services to their patients choose not to have this option available to transgender patients, while it is available to others undergoing medical treatments — chemotherapy patients,

for example, the Guardian reported. “...treatment should be made available in order to ensure that access to health services is free of discrimination. A choice between treatment for gender dysphoria and the chance to start a family is not a real choice.

We have asked NHS England to reflect on the true breadth of their statutory mandate and the impact on the transgender community of these outdated policies,” Chief Executive of the HRC Rebecca Hilsenrath said.

LGBT groups, including charities Stonewall and Mermaid, have shown support for the EHRC’s involvement in the matter.

Ruby Rose, an outwardly lesbian Australian model and actress, has been selected to play The CW’s lesbian incarnation of Batwoman.

Her role will first appear this December during the “Arrow” crossover episode, another DC Comic-based show. A series featuring Batwoman herself is in the works, and if the character appeals to audiences, it will likely air in the 2019-2020 television season — joining the other DC shows such as “The Flash,” “Supergirl,” “Legends of Tomorrow” and “Black Lightning,” all produced by The CW, Hollywood Reporter said.

“I feel like the reason I get so emotional, growing up watching TV, I never saw somebody on TV that I could identify with, let alone a superhero,” Rose said on the Tonight Show. “I have always had this saying — I mean, not me, Oscar Wilde — which is ‘Be yourself because everyone else is taken.’ So I always live by that motto, and the second motto when I came into the industry was be the person that you needed when you were younger. I feel like one motto led to another.”

Rose is best known for her role as Stella Carlin in the hit LGBT-friendly show “Orange Is the New Black.”

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LGBTQIA bites

N

NON-BINARY

Actor Bex Taylor-Klaus Comes Out as Non-Binary

Via Facebook

Bex Taylor-Klaus, who is best known for their roles as Bullet in the crime drama “The Killing,” Audrey Jensen in the horror “Scream,” and Sin in the superherocentric “Arrow” recently came out as transgender non-binary on Twitter.

“I came out as trans non-binary in a room full of people today. Guess it’s time for me to do that on here, too … Hi. I’m Bex, and the rumors are true. I’m v enby,” they said.

This statement echoes their 2016 tweet

in which they came out as gay to help spread LGBT positivity.

“Part of why I’m coming out is because there’s so much hate and fear in and around the LGBT community right now and it’s important for us not to halt progress out of fear. Yes, it’s a scary time, but we need to stand up and say, even if you are afraid, I’m not afraid, or even if I am afraid, I’m strong. I am who I am and you can’t take that away from me,” TaylorKlaus said.

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8.15.2018 •

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news international

By Hope Benson

Around the World

Exploring LGBT News Events Across the Globe EUROPE

LATIN AMERICA

Russian police detain about 25 LGBT rights activists

Costa Rica Supreme Court Approves of Same-Sex Marriage

During a rally in St. Petersburg to promote LGBT rights, about 25 people were forced into police vans and detained.

Although the gathering on the square had been banned, about 60 activists showed up, each claiming to protest alone to avoid the “rally” classification, the BBC reported. Those holding up protest signs were apprehended by police, who also targeted those with “the most colorful flags and clothes,” demonstration coorganizer Aleksei Nazarov said.

“This topic is silenced in the mass media.

These [gay] people exist, the authorities should work with them somehow and we should search for dialogue,” protester Mikhail said.

LGBT rights in Russia are lacking compared to those in other countries — it

•

was ranked as Europe’s second least LGBTfriendly nation in 2016 by advocacy group ILGA-Europe. A 2013 law banning “gay propaganda” that has been used to stop pride parades and detain activists may also be responsible for the doubling of Russia’s LGBT hate crimes in the past five years, Reuters reported.

Costa Rica’s Supreme Court has ruled against the country’s long-standing ban on same-sex marriage, and is giving the government 18 months to decide on the matter.

The decision comes after four influential events: a petition in 2016 by then-President Luis Guillermo Solis who wished to increase LGBT rights, the April induction of Costa Rica’s pro-gay President Carlos Alvarado Quesada, the January judgement in favor of same-sex marriage by the Inter-American Humans Rights Court, and an LGBTaffirming protest staged outside of the Court the day of the decision.

The president agrees with the ruling, wanting to make sure that “no person will face discrimination for their sexual orientation,” but many evangelical

lawmakers — who Via Facebook make up 14 of the legislative chamber’s 57 seats — are still against the act, said the BBC. This development comes only months after Costa Rica’s presidential election quickly became an LGBT debate that was “hell” for its citizens, said former Vice President Ana Helena Chacón Echeverría. “...the country split in half. This was the issue. We weren’t talking about taxes or infrastructure or poverty, they were talking about gay rights, yes or no?” she said, reported Pink News.

If the legislature can’t come to a decision by the end of the 18 months, the ban will automatically be nulled.

ASIA

MIDDLE EAST

LGBT activists’ Portraits Removed From Public Malaysian Photo Exhibition

Tens of Thousands Protest in Tel Aviv for Gay Surrogacy Rights

Malaysia’s Minister of Islamic Affairs Mujahid Yusof Rawa ordered the removal of two LGBT activist portraits from a public photo exhibition, arguing that they didn’t fit governmental policy.

The two pictured were transgender activist and U.S. Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award receiver Nisha Ayub and co-founder of LGBT rights festival Seksualiti Merdeka Pang Khee Teik, according to the BBC. The photos were taken to celebrate Malaysia’s 60th year of independence — both activists were carrying the country’s flag, but Teik had the LGBT flag in hand as well. Homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia, and punishable under federal law.

“I have consistently repeated in parliament that we do not support the

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Via Facebook

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Pang Khee Teik via Facebook

promotion of LGBT culture in Malaysia,” Rawa said to The Star.

The activists have taken to social media to protest the removal.

“They talk about rights as a citizen of Malaysia but they are denying people like me to express our love to our own country … I may be transgender, but I’m just a Malaysian [who] has family, friends, that always has hope for a more inclusive Malaysia,” Ayub said on Facebook.

Teik agreed, saying that they were only “loving our country in spite of the hate” on Facebook as well.

About 60,000 people gathered in Tel Aviv, Israel following a day-long strike to protest the exclusion of gay men in new surrogacy laws.

Israel’s parliament approved surrogacy rights for women who are single or unable to have children, but did not extend the law to gay men. Gay couples seeking a surrogate mother must search abroad, which can cost more than $100,000, spokesperson for the Association of Gay Fathers in Israel Julien Bahloul said to AFP. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blocked an amendment that would grant surrogacy rights to single men and by extension gay couples, arguing that if it was added to the bill it never would have passed in Parliament — therefore denying women surrogacy rights. He plans

Via CNN

to support a bill on father’s surrogacy rights in the future.

This explanation doesn’t settle well with some people, however.

“We shall not let Netanyahu avoid giving an answer on the blatant discrimination against the LGBT community over the surrogacy law. The debate is only the beginning of a process,” Yesh Atid political party member Ofer Shela wrote in a statement. The ultimate aim, he said, was “changing the law and ending the discrimination.”

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8.15.2018 •

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NEWS local

Broward’s LGBT Homeless Find Hope in

First of its Kind Service Damon Scott

Joe Trembly.

J

oe Trembly has a unique perspective on homelessness in South Florida.

The 53-year-old landed in Broward County almost 30 years ago from Orlando after being fired from his job. He had lost his car, his apartment and all the safety and security that comes with having a good job, transportation and a roof over your head.

“I found myself stuck,” Trembly, who is gay, said.

Trembly was indeed stuck – and took shelter any way he could. He ended up living in a Fort Lauderdale dumpster during an almost year-long stretch with no place to go. Trembly said he was eventually able to turn things around because of the kindness of a person who allowed him to take a shower, loaned him a scooter and set him up for a job interview.

“It took someone believing in me when I’d lost all belief in myself,” Trembly said.

A first for Broward

Trembly recently wrote a grant and was awarded $75,000 by the Community Foundation of Broward to fund up to eight beds at Keystone Halls, which over the course of a year will likely assist about 45 LGBT individuals who are trying to transition out of homelessness.

He said four of the beds have already been filled and estimates a typical length of stay will be about three to four months. Trembly is working with LGBT social service groups Daunting stats like SunServe in Wilton Manors to identify potential clients. He The LGBT community has a said it’s the first time something higher than average number of like this has been done in people who are experiencing Broward. homelessness compared to the “The whole idea is to create - Joe Trembly general population. Not only inclusivity. We had six people that, but LGBT youth – who come in last month,” Trembly comprise about 40 percent of all homeless said of all the walks of life that enter Keystone young people, but only 7 percent of total Halls – veterans, gay, straight and everything youth population – are at a more than double in-between. “One was from a shelter; one the risk than non-LGBT youth. came from a [homeless] encampment and Homeless services are limited in Broward one [was] living in a dumpster.” and elsewhere, and facilities with gay staff The grant was one of five awards totaling who were once homeless – like Trembly – $300,000 from the Community Foundation are virtually non-existent, even in a county of Broward as part of its Broward Pride like Broward that is known for its high LGBT Program. population.

Trembly, who has worked at Keystone Motivation, inclusion Halls – a Fort Lauderdale-based transitional housing facility with about 65 beds – The inspiration for Trembly’s grant was since 2013, saw an opportunity to make a a report that was commissioned by the difference with those he identifies with and Broward Foundation. whose experiences he understands.

“Broward Pride: A Report to the

“It took someone believing in me when I’d lost all belief in myself.”

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Community” was published this summer.

It included the thoughts and analyses of more than 50 Broward residents who came together in multiple meetings. The subject was the “state of LGBTQ acceptance and inclusion in the county.”

One of the findings was that LGBT homeless youth are “reluctant to seek help from homeless shelters for fear of rejection and concern for their personal safety.”

Trembly says those concerns translate to LGBT homeless people of any age.

“Oftentimes what we find is that people still don’t want to identify [as LGBT] in order to obtain services, or they don’t feel safe in the shelters, especially for transgender individuals,” Trembly said.

His goal is for Keystone Halls to be known as a safe place for the LGBT community.

Falsehoods persist Along with providing a safe space, Trembly said it’s important to address the misconceptions many have about homelessness in general.

One of the biggest, he said, is that the homeless are only in their situation because of drug abuse.

“That’s really not the case. Many are people who have had an unfortunate situation that led to them becoming homeless,” Trembly said.

He added that another misconception is that society tends to believe someone is homeless because it’s a choice. “I don’t think anyone chooses to be homeless. Most people want to move out of that situation,” he said.

For more More information on the Community Foundation of Broward, including a link to the Broward Pride Report, can be found at cfbroward.org.

More information on Keystone Hall, which also serves homeless individuals suffering from chemical dependency, is available by calling 954-763-2300 or going online to KeyStoneHalls.org.

NEWS local Via Facebook

Back to School Supply Drive with a Twist

Pride Center and GFLGLCC collect supplies for students Denise Royal

T

he Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Education Foundation and Tools for School Chamber of Commerce is hosting its Broward,” said Ebony Wilson, Prevention annual Back to School Outreach Coordinator at the Supply Drive. Its upcoming Pride Center. “They’ve let mixer is on Tuesday, August us know in years past that 21 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and the coalition of LGBTQ-plus is presented by Reyka Vodka. groups that we spearhead has The location is B Ocean at been the largest contributor 1140 Seabreeze Boulevard in of supplies to the annual Fort Lauderdale. drive. What a great testimony The event supports Tools and message from our for School and the Broward LGBTQ-plus communities!

Education Foundation.

We’re honored to help equip Attendees are urged to bring students for success.” school supply donations to - Ebony Wilson Prevention Outreach help teachers and students Attendees will receive: Coordinator at the Pride be prepared for the 2018/2019 Center school year. The Pride Center • One complimentary will also have someone on Reyka Vodka Drink hand to accept financial contributions.

• Cash Bar with Happy Hour Specials “We’re happy once again to collect • Complimentary Hors D’oeuvres needed school supplies for Broward

“We’re honored to help equip students for success.”

The evening is complimentary for GFLGLCC members. The cost is $10 for future members. Valet parking is $5. If you are unable to attend, you can also donate supplies at the bins at The Pride Center or donate money on its website at PrideCenterFlorida.org.

8.15.2018 •

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NEWS palm beach

PBCHRC Summer Soiree Nets $20,000 Via Facebook

Jason Parsley

T

he Palm Beach County Human Rights Council raised almost $20,000 in profits at its annual Summer Soiree two weeks ago.

“This year’s Summer Soiree was a smashing success. We had a record number of underwriters and sold close to 250 tickets,” said Rand Hoch, president of the PBCHRC. “There were more elected officials and candidates than ever before.

Even candidates who were not endorsed

by PBCHRC Voters Alliance this year joined us in celebrating the progress that is continuing to be made for the Palm Beach LGBTQ community.”

The annual event took place August 4 at the National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach.

“Special thanks go out to Sandy James Fine Food and Productions, the National

Croquet Club and Sutka Visual Design for making the evening magically,” Hoch said.

PBCHRC’s next major event will be the Winter Fete on January 19, “where we will be honoring West Palm Beach Mayor Jeri Muoio, who has probably been, without exaggeration, the most pro-active mayor on LGBTQ issues in any city in the USA,” Hoch said.

Visit www.pbchrc.org for more information about the organization.

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NEWS local

Controversy Erupts in Race for Florida’s House District 92

Incumbent accused of anti-LGBT bias and other local political notes John McDonald

Paulette Armstead via Facebook

P

aulette Armstead, 67, is the first black lesbian to be hired by the St. Petersburg, Florida Police Department. She’s seeking a state house seat in Florida’s district 92, which covers 10 municipalities in Broward County.

Her opponent, Patricia Hawkins- office seeking comment for this story.

Williams, elected in 2016, has been She did not return SFGN’s call. accused of anti-LGBT behavior. Broward Adam Sabin, Treasurer of the Dolphin Human Rights activist Michael Rajner Democrats, said Hawkins-Williams did denounced Hawkins-Williams in a not apply for endorsement consideration Facebook post, writing “Anti-LGBT from the largest LGBT political caucus in Democratic Florida State Representative her district.

Patricia Hawkins-Williams has been “She was contacted multiple times and anointed by the Miami-based hate group, never responded to our requests,” Sabin Christian Family Coalition.” said.

Dolphin Democrats In her last campaign President Scott Herman finance report, Hawkinsdelivered a ringing Williams collected $33,500 endorsement of Armstead. through 49 contributions.

The Dolphin Democrats, Her contributors include a political LGBT caucus, AT&T, Walmart, Toyota endorsed Armstead over and Disney. sitting representative Armstead, by contrast, Hawkins-Williams. has raised $32,480 with “They realize when she 70 contributions, the gives her word, she’s gonna majority of which are from do it,” Herman said. individuals and families.

Rajner said HawkinsWilliams attended the July SFGN also called the cell - Michael Rajner Dolphin Democrats meeting phone of Armstead but did Broward Human Rights and projected contempt. not receive a return call in activist “She stood there with a time for this story. nasty attitude and never once said hello to anyone in the room,” A few other local political notes: Rajner wrote.

Herman, however, did not notice.

1. Florida Senator Daphne Campbell “I heard she was outside,” Herman called police on a Miami Herald reporter said. “Evidently, she wouldn’t come in.” last week for “threatening behavior” Herman added Hawkins-Williams reports Miami New Times reporter Jerry is “in bed with the extreme right in Iannelli. Campbell, a Democrat, faces Tallahassee.” former prosecutor Jason Pizzo in the “She was trying to go around the corner party’s primary election Aug. 28. Pizzo on all of her answers,” Herman said. has earned the endorsement of SAVE’s SFGN reached out to Hawkins- Action Pac. “Jason, who strongly opposes Williams, telephoning her Tallahassee ‘license to discriminate’ legislation that

“She stood there with a nasty attitude and never once said hello to anyone in the room.”

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allows employers to invoke religion to legally discriminate against employees based on sexual orientation has vowed to work hand in hand with our team to continue to further equality for the LGBTQ community,” said Tony Lima, SAVE President.

2. Elijah Manley is campaigning for a Broward school board seat. The 19-yearold Manley revealed he is queer during a Pride month post on Instagram, writing “Today is a day to be proud of who you are, I’m #Queer, and will fight for your right to an inclusive educational experience.”

In 2016 he ran for President of the United States, eventually dropping out of the race to support Green Party nominee Jill Stein.

3. David Richardson, a gay Miami Democrat, received the endorsement of the Miami Herald last week. Richardson, a two-term Florida Representative and certified public accountant, is battling it out with former University of Miami President and Clinton administration Health & Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala for the party nomination in U.S House District 27.

NEWS local

Locals Bring Back Medals From Gay Games in Paris Chris Manning Via Carina Mask

John McDonald

L

ocal athletes performed well at the recent Gay Games in Paris.

Chris Manning, a basketball player, was on a silver medal winning team.

“Bittersweet leaving,” Manning said at the Charles de Gaulle airport before stepping on a plane bound for Fort Lauderdale. “This was a lot of fun and growth as a man.”

Manning, 30, played for the second place Los Angeles Heat. He was sponsored by Hunters Nightclub in Wilton Manors.

Elsewhere, John Ring, a triathlete and

cyclist, competed for Ireland. Ring, 45, took the bronze medal in the cycling criterium.

He is married to Herb Diamond of Fort Lauderdale.

SFGN was still gathering details at press time for other Gay Games 2018 participants.

The 32-year-old event, held in France this year, has seen more than 10,000 participants in 36 sports and 14 cultural events.

According to a source in the swimming division, 91 countries were represented this year at the games.

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NEWS palm beach

Compass LBT Women’s Health Conference on Saturday The annual event will focus on education

Denise Royal

Via Facebook

C

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LBT women can be at greater risk for certain health disparities, but often face significant barriers to addressing them. The first step to overcoming these barriers is through education.

Breakout Sessions - This year there will be four topics: • Sleep & Health • Fitness & Movement • Gynecological Health • Intimacy & Sexual Health There will be several vendors on-site as well including: • Free, on-site HIV testing, counseling, and linkage to care

• Free, on-site Health Screenings (blood pressure, glucose, bone density) • CShells Massage will be present all day offering free massages • CVS will also be on sight performing health screenings and giving Flu shots.

Lunch is provided. Prior registration for this event is required. Registration prior to Wednesday, August 15, 2018 is free.

On August 15, 2018 and after it will cost $20 to register. Registration is available at Eventbrite.com/e/womens-wellnessconference-2018-tickets-47519149054.

The conference will take place from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Compass, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Visit CompassGLCC.com for more information.

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17

NEWS elections

Election Guide 2018 SFGN Staff

O

n August 28 Florida residents will vote in their respective party’s primaries. Since there are too many races for SFGN to research and endorse across South Florida we are reprinting the major non-partisan LGBT groups’ endorsements – Equality Florida, Palm Beach County Human Rights Council and SAVE. SFGN does not “endorse” the endorsements, but we are publishing this as a community service.

PHOTOS (TOP DOWN): DAVID RICHARDSON, LAUREN BAER, JUDGE ROBERT LEE. PHOTOS VIA FACEBOOK.

Palm Beach County Human Rights Council U.S. Senate Bill Nelson

Circuit Court Judge Reinoso Coleman (Group 25) Michael McAuliffe (Group 18) Marybel

County Commissioner Gregg Weiss (Dist. 4) Robert S. Weinroth (Dist. 2)

Governor Andrew Gillum

Palm Beach Soil & Water Conservation (Group 1) Michelle Sylvester (Group 5) Eva Webb

Commissioner of Agriculture Nicole “Nikki” Fried Florida Senate (Dist. 30) Bobby Powell Florida House of Representatives Tina Polsky (Dist. 82) Edward O’Connor (Dist. 85) Ellen Baker (Dist. 86) Matt Willhite (Dist. 87) David Silvers (Dist. 81)

8 .15.2018

PRIMARY- James Bonfiglio REP PRIMARY- Matt Spritz

Palm Beach County School Board (Dist. 7) Debra Robinson

Chief Financial Officer Jeremy Ring

•

(Dist. 89)

U.S. Congress (Dist. 18) Lauren Baer (Dist. 20) Alcee Hastings (Dist 22) Ted Deutch

Attorney General Sean Shaw

18

(Dist. 89) DEM

Port of Palm Beach Commissioner Holtz

(Group 5) Scott

Board of Supervisors of the Northern PBC Improvement District (Seat 2) Jim Gibbs County Court Judge (Group 4) Lloyd Comiter (Group 5) Jeremy Zubkoff Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer Boca Raton City Council Thomson

(Seat A) Andy

NEWS elections

Equality Florida Florida Senate (Dist. 6) Audrey Gibson (Dist. 8 ) Kayser Enneking (Dist. 22) Bob Doyle (Dist. 30) Bobby Powell Jr. (Dist. 34) Gary M. Farmer Jr (Dist. 38) Jason Pizzo (Dist. 40) Annette Taddeo Florida House (Dist. 9) Loranne Ausley (Dist. 13) Tracie Davis (Dist. 15) Tracye Polson (Dist. 20) Clovis Watson Jr (Dist. 26) Patrick Henry (Dist. 43) John Cortes (Dist. 45) Kamia Brown (Dist. 46) Bruce Hadley Antone (Dist. 47) Anna Eskamani (Dist. 48) Amy Mercado (Dist. 49) Carlos Guillermo Smith (Dist. 63) Fentrice Driskell (Dist. 68) Ben Diamond (Dist. 69) Jennifer Webb (Dist. 70) Wengay M. Newton Sr. (Dist. 72) Margaret Good (Dist. 87) David Silvers (Dist. 88) Al Jacquet (Dist. 91) Emily Slosberg (Dist. 94) Bobby Dubose (Dist. 81) Tina Polsky (Dist. 86) Matt Willhite (Dist. 96) Kristin D. Jacobs (Dist. 97) Jared E. Moskowitz (Dist. 99) Evan Boyd Jenne (Dist. 100) Joseph Scott Geller (Dist. 101) Shevrin Dion Jones (Dist. 102) Sharon Pritchett (Dist. 104) Richard Neil Stark (Dist. 109) Cedric McMinn (Dist. 112) Nicholas Xavier Duran (Dist. 114) Javier Fernandez (Dist. 117) Kionne L. McGhee (Dist. 118) Robert Asencio (Dist. 120) Holly Raschein

Broward County County Commission (Group 6) Quentin “Beam” Furr School Board Murray (Group 6) Laurie Rich Levinson (Group 7) Nora Rupert (Group 8) Donna Pilger Korn (Group 1) Ann

Wilton Manors Mayor Justin Flippen Wilton Manors City Commission At-Large Scott Newton

Miami-Dade County Commission (Group 8) Daniella Levine Cava

Palm Beach County County Commission (Group 2) Gregg Weiss (Group 4) Robert S. Weinroth (Group 6) Melissa McKinlay School Board Lynne Robinson

(Group 7) Debra

Vote-by-Mail Vote-by-mail refers to voting on a ballot received by mail or picked up by, or for, a voter. The deadline to ask for a ballot to be mailed is 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 22. A voter may pick up a vote-by-mail ballot from the office of their Supervisor of Elections through the day before the election or, if an emergency exists, on the day of the election. Vote-by-mail ballots must be received by the Supervisor of Elections’ office no later than 7:00 p.m. on Election Day in order to be canvassed and counted.

SAVE U.S. Congress (Dist. 27) David Richardson (Dist. 38) Jason Pizzo Florida House McMinn

(Dist. 109) Cedric

Miami-Dade County Judges

(Group 2) Kristy

Nunez Martinez (Group 33) Olanike Adebayo (Group 40) Michael Barket (Group 43) Milena Abreu (Group 32) Lizzet

Early Voting Early voting is defined as “casting a ballot in person prior to Election Day at a location designated by the Supervisor of Elections.” The voter uses the same type of voting equipment that is used at the polls on Election Day. All 67 Florida counties will be offering early voting from August 18 – August 25. In addition, each county Supervisor of Elections may at his or her own discretion, offer additional days of early voting. Contact your county Supervisor of Elections for more information.

Broward County Judges Lee (Group 10) Robert Diaz (Group 19) Allison Gilman (Group 17) Rhoda Ann Sokoloff (Group 9) Corey Cawthon (Group 25) Robert

11th Circuit Court Marrero (Group 14) Renee Gordon (Group 8) David Miller (Group 25) Yery

17th Circuit Court (Group 36) Shari Africk-Olefson (Group 38) Melissa Minsk Donoho (Group 42) Michael Usan (Group 43) Dan Casey (Group 46) Mariya Weekes

Election Day Voting On Election Day, polls will be open statewide from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Any voters waiting in line at 7:00 p.m. will have the opportunity to cast a ballot.

If you do not know where your polling place is, contact your county Supervisor of Elections. You can also find your precinct and polling place on your county Supervisor of Elections’ website or by using the Check Your Voter Status webpage (https://bit.ly/2cqTroB).

8.15.2018 •

19

NEWS national

More than 100 newspapers will publish editorials decrying Trump’s anti-press rhetoric Brian Stelter CNN

“T

he dirty war on the free press must impact of Trump’s assault on journalism end.” looks different in Boise than it does in That’s the idea behind an unusual Boston,” she wrote. “Our words will differ. editorial-writing initiative that has enlisted But at least we can agree that such attacks are scores of newspapers across America. alarming.”

The Boston Globe has been contacting Journalists have noticed an uptick in newspaper editorial boards and proposing a Trump’s attacks against the news media “coordinated response” to President Trump’s in recent weeks. He has been using escalating “enemy of the people” rhetoric. dehumanizing language like “enemy of “We propose to publish an editorial the people” more often. He has also been on August 16 on the dangers of the speaking to reporters less often, limiting administration’s assault on the chances for questions to be the press and ask others to “the majority asked. commit to publishing their own With Trump’s words and are from editorials on the same date,” deeds as the backdrop, some The Globe said in its pitch to media critics have urged the smaller fellow papers.

White House press corps to markets, all The effort began just a few engage in acts of solidarity. days ago.

There were cheers last month enthusiastic As of Saturday, “we have more reporters in the briefing about standing when than 100 publications signed room deferred to rivals who up, and I expect that number up to Trump’s were trying to ask follow-up to grow in the coming days,” questions, and when numerous assault on Marjorie Pritchard, the Globe’s outlets stood up for CNN journalism.” reporter Kaitlan Collins after deputy editorial page editor, told CNN. Collins was told she could not - Marjorie Prichard The American Society attend a Trump event.

Deputy editorial page editor at The Globe of News Editors, the New The coordinated editorials England Newspaper and Press may be another example of Association and other groups have helped unity across the news business. her spread the word.

Although there’s a longstanding debate “The response has been overwhelming,” about the effectiveness of newspaper Pritchard said. “We have some big editorials, there is certainly strength in newspapers, but the majority are from smaller numbers -- the greater the number of markets, all enthusiastic about standing up participants, the more readers will see the to Trump’s assault on journalism.” message.

Instead of printing the exact same message, Pritchard said she expects differing views each publication will write its own editorial, from the editorials, “but the same sentiment: Pritchard said.

The importance of a free and independent That was a key part of her pitch: “The press.”

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8 .15.2018

Publisher's Editorial

Convictions

The Most Dangerous Man in America is Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

Still Donald Trump This column is reprinted from the July 4 issue of SFGN.

x

Right: Donald Trump appears to mock the disability of Serge Kovaleski, a reporter who happens to suffer from a chronic muscular disease that affects arm movement. Credit: Twitter. 

As 2017 came to an end, I wrote a year-end editorial about Trump’s verbal assault on a free press. This past week, the president’s hateful words contributed to the murder of five journalists in Annapolis.

My prophecy from the past has become the reality of the present. My fear has become fact. The most dangerous person in America is no terrorist, immigrant or child of immigrants. It’s the president of the United States, Donald Trump, kidnapper and now killer.

As we celebrate July 4, under Trump’s watch, journalists are being buried. Only days before this mass shooting, he stood at a rally calling the press “an enemy of the people.”

No, we are not. He is.

It is a sad day for America. Thousands of immigrant children are illegally incarcerated in concentration camps.

Trump is getting ready to appoint a second Supreme Court justice, one who can potentially roll back decades of progressive advances in equal rights for all.

The challenge today is for America’s free press to remain independent, not supplicant; to print real news, not government Pablum, whether you are the Wilton Manors Gazette or the Capital Gazette. We choose to question authority, not bow down to it.

It’s no coincidence either that the leaders Trump cuddles up to represent ruthless dictatorships that govern their countries with unchecked power. It’s no coincidence, either, that those countries, from North Korea to Russia, do not have a free press. Freedom interferes with self-celebratory fascists.

A free press will never be this president’s friend. He lies, conceals, and hides too much. A free press is supposed to disclose and expose, not celebrate and coronate. Whether we

are students or football players, we are not supposed to kneel to presidential power.

Our duty as members of the press is to report on the president, not support him. Fox News may choose to become state-sponsored media, regurgitating White House press releases. We choose not to be a tool of the dictatorship. Most of America’s free press has not.

A newspaper’s task is to report and reveal.

Sometimes, a story will celebrate a pride festival. At other times, it will tell you the name of the person who stole from it. You don’t roll over because a charlatan is running rampant in the White House. You run him out. Dissent can be the highest form of patriotism. In this era, with this president in power, it has become so again.

From community weeklies to national cable shows, a free press represents the liberties and rights of America. Every day, every week, our papers protect and preserve freedoms. Trump’s White House poisons and perverts them.

Even before he was elected, Donald Trump engaged in a war on the press. Once, here in Palm Beach, a local Sun Sentinel journalist, Mike Mayo, encountered it first-hand, surrounded by a crowd of Trump supporters accosting him with intimidating threats.

Mr. Trump’s cruel and callous attacks on America’s free press have been incessant and for two years now, he has induced violence with his viciousness. Playing to the crowd

is more important to him than keeping the peace. As a result, the president’s followers are encouraged to ridicule journalists at his public rallies.

Trump was astute enough to know the media would hate him for his never-ending duplicity. He was a man who lived by lies and now was facing a stronger microscope. Thus, from the outset of his campaign, he devised a plan to undermine the press.

Trump conspiratorially orchestrated, devised and engineered a plan to make the media a tool of scorn and derision.

He anticipated his legions would join in his campaign. Remember he could “shoot someone on 5th Avenue” and would not lose supporters. He was right. His minions were mastered. They have followed him like sheep, and the nation has suffered as a result.

Two years later, Trump has had his way.

He created the term “fake news,” something that did not even exist in our lexicon 24 months ago. Today, at every opportunity, Trump derisively mocks the press, demeans our reporters, and scoffs at our work. He has called us an “enemy of the people,” and now journalists have been murdered.

After the bloodbath, Trump released a statement saying how sorry he was. Please, that is hypocrisy in its highest form. Yes, and there were “good people” on both sides of the racist march in Charlottesville. As far as I am concerned, it was Trump who primed the pump. He might as well have loaded the gun. Lock him up. Take America back.

Every day, every week, our papers protect and preserve freedoms.

Trump’s White House poisons and perverts them.

8.15.2018 •

21

Guest Column

Convictions

THE PASSING OF A LESBIAN ICON in memoriam Barbara Kelly 5-28-1936 to 6-24-2018

Robin Bodiford

x

B

arbara Ellen Kelly passed June 24 at her home in Hallandale Beach, Florida.

Barbara, Barb, or Kelly, as she was popularly known, was born in New York City on May 28, 1936. Barbara lived in Brooklyn, Rockaway and Woodside Queens as a child and young adult.

The story of Barbara’s life is, in many ways, the story of lesbians of her era: coming into adulthood in the mid-fifties, forced to work and support themselves in a time when jobs for women in the workplace were extremely limited. She first worked for the New York Telephone Company as an operator in the late 1950’s. In the mid 1960’s, Barb moved to Eastern Long Island, attended nursing school and then worked at a hospital in South Hampton.

On a vacation to Florida, she fell in love with Fort Lauderdale and decided to move there. While working as an O.R. nurse, Barbara met her first life partner, Marylin Spindler, who was, as Kelly told her beloved nephew, Jerry Boyle, “a big shot in the I.C.U.” And as Jerry says, one thing led to another and they became a couple. They bought some acres and built a ranch house outside the town of Davie, Florida. In the 1970s, in her 30s, she was tall, slim and handsome: Barb was coming into her own. She was sharp!

She loved fast motorcycles, new cars, and bedecked herself with gold jewelry as befit an up and coming New Yorker.

Forced to be self-reliant at an early age, Barb was street smart and always savvy and could see a deal or a bargain a mile off. She and Marilyn befriended the guy who owned the local liquor store in Davie. They offered to buy it from him. The made a deal for the business and the building and the lot and they named it “The Beer Barn.” They took opposite shifts at the hospital and The Beer Barn. They worked every day around the clock until the business started to pay off.

As the story goes, within a year they had paid off the mortgage and were able to stop

working as nurses. Soon they opened The Beer Barn Lounge, “a beer and a shot joint” with a great jukebox, and the first liquor bar in Davie.

“Southern Nights” by Glenn Campbell was one of her favorite songs. In the shadow world of lesbian life at that time “bar owner” was an exalted status and Barb was there, with her brand new white caddy, then later the baby blue “2 seater” Mercedes and, of course, the motorcycle.

In 1990, Barb opened Pink Tails, a gay entertainment club in Fort Lauderdale. Barb, true to form, playing the “gay blade,” was ever-present in her pink tuxedo, keeping the LGBT clientele entertained and keeping an eye on business. One of her favorite sayings was, “I boogie in, then, I boogie out.” A sister lesbian bar owner recalls, “Kelly could charm anybody and we always got the best table at any restaurant we went to or any bar we went to! But boy we had fun no matter where we went!”

Barbara’s personality was one of a kind. Along with Barbara’s big personality came an even bigger heart.

She was kind, generous and loving. She loved women, gambling, smoking and Rolling Rock, roughly in that order. She was fondly known as “Mrs. T” because she wore so many gold necklaces and rings. She could also laugh at herself.

One friend recalls that about 10 years ago when walking through airport security with her, they asked that she step aside so they could wand her. She laughed and said, “My friends call me ‘Mrs. T!’” After Pink Tails closed due to a falling out with a co-owner, Barb and her partner retired to Ormond Beach - but Barbara could never sit still so she really never retired. Barbara managed property, bought and sold property and kept her finger in many things in the neighborhood. Barbara also was a loving caretaker for her aunt and uncle who she moved to be near her in their elder years.

Returning to the Fort Lauderdale area after

She was sharp!

She loved fast motorcycles, new cars, and bedecked herself with gold jewelry as befit an up and coming New Yorker.

22

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8 .15.2018

Barbara Kelly (left) and Beverly Linn (Right).

their death, Marilyn also passed, leaving Barb at the nadir of her life. The years of hard work, fun, loving and long lasting friendships had devolved to this, and with her eyesight failing, she was alone.

But, destiny had one more grand adventure for our indefatigable heroine. Through friends, Barb met Beverly Linn, and fell madly in love. Bev, as fate would have it, became her legal wife on January 6, 2015 at 5 a.m., when the Broward County Clerk of Court, Howard Forman, opened the courthouse at midnight so that hundreds of gay and lesbian couples could legally marry. Beverly (“Bev”) and Barb were the darlings of the Wilton Drive lesbian and gay piano bar scene, attending Mary Jane Cunningham’s sing-a-longs and hosting brunches at the local casinos. With Bev’s Barbara Kelly.

glamorous style and Barb’s wit and charm, whenever they appeared, lesbians (and Tony Dee, the venerable owner of Chardees Lounge) flocked around them.

She is remembered by her hundreds, if not thousands of customers at The Beer Barn in Davie, and Pink Tails in Fort Lauderdale.

Barbara was a well known icon in the gay Fort Lauderdale community of the 70s, 80s, and 90s: melding a mix of the straight, lesbian and gay men customers, extremely unusual at that time in the South. Barb was known for her beautiful smile, her twinkling blue eyes and quick wit. She will be remembered as a loyal, loving and beloved wife and friend. She is survived by her beautiful and loving wife, Beverly Linn, her nephew, Jerry Boyle, and her many friends.

column letters to the editor

Donna Korn Corrects the Record Candidate for Broward County School Board apologizes for poor choice of words

I am proud to have the support of the Dolphin Democrats, Equality Florida, and the Sun-Sentinel for my re-election as the Broward County School Board Member, Countywide. I have spent the last 7 years fighting for ALL of our children and their backing affirmed many years of my support for the LGBTQ+ community. I shared my passion for education, at their recent meeting, and was overwhelmed with their gracious and emphatic support. Because I support the LGBTQ+ community and identify myself as an ally, it is critically important, to me, to clarify statements that I made at a debate that I attended on August 7th.

The moderator, with implied bias, posed his own question as follows, “A lot of families are pulling their kids out of school. I have friends who have pulled all their kids out of school and have gone to homeschooling because they are concerned about what the students are getting taught specifically in terms of some of the radical ideologies, as they see it, like allowing kids as early, as young as 5 years old to choose their gender, for example and being taught all these ideas that there are 13 or 14 genders and you can pick which ever bathroom you want to go to…I wanted each of you to address that from a standpoint of what families feel that it’s not appropriate at 5 years old to tell a child you can pick from 13 genders and pick whatever bathroom they want to go to.” This is a clear misrepresentation of Broward County Public Schools Policy and of the choice that many exercise to homeschool their children.

The question was of great concern to me, as gender identity and sexual orientation are not a choice. I immediately and passionately responded that if a child comes to a teacher and says they have questions they need to be given support at school. In addressing the question, about sharing information with families, I intended to state we share information with the family if a student has been harmed such as in the case of rape. It was not my intent to imply that LGBTQ+ identities should be connected with past trauma. The child’s safety is always our first priority. My words were clearly poorly chosen and did not convey my intent.

For this I apologize for how any of this may have been perceived and promise that I will be more sensitive and particular in my communication. I emphatically believe, as I stated in the debate, that we have to support every child as they come to us because every child is perfect in their own way. I’M HERE FOR EVERY SINGLE CHILD!

Accounting and Tax Services Timothy S. Hart, CPA

Donna Korn Broward County School Board Member, Countywide

Let your voice be heard!  Submit your own letter to Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com

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8.15.2018 •

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Convictions

Jesse’s Journal

The time to VOTE is NOW Jesse Monteagudo

A

few articles ago, I asked Trump I have a friend who spends his time supporters who read my column to bitching and moaning about Trump, his contact me and let me know why they administration, followers, policies and support the President. Apparently Trump programs. But does he do anything to stop supporters do not read my column because, Trump? Of course not. Like many others, so far, I have not received one reply. my friend is a victim of sedentary agitation, It is a shame, because a condition where, in the if there is one thing words of U.S. Senator wrong with America Cory Booker (D-NJ), “we today it is the fact that sit on our couch so upset we who hold different about what’s going on and views do not talk to fail to realize that we have each other. We insult to do something about it.” and attack each other As Senator Booker in the media, our blogs, said so well, we cannot our Facebook posts allow our inability to do and Twitter messages. everything to undermine But do we talk to each our determination to do other? Of course not. something. We MUST do At least people on both something, or else we will sides in our first Civil have Trump determine War communicated with (and destroy) our each other, if violently. destinies for the next six This lack of years, aided and abetted - Cory Booker communication from the by a Republican Congress. other side in our Great Unfortunately, barring Divide leads me to conclude that people who a sensational revelation on the part of read “Jesse’s Journal” tend to agree with me, Robert Mueller’s investigative committee, and believe that Trump is the worst thing it is highly unlikely that Trump will be that’s ever happened to our great country. toppled anytime soon. If we want to stop So what are we going to do about it?

Trump, we must do it ourselves. Happily,

“we sit on our couch so upset about what’s going on and fail to realize that we have to do something about it.”

24

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8 .15.2018

the anti-Trump Resistance is alive and well, and always in need of recruits. Opposition groups ranging from the Democratic Party to organizations fighting on behalf of LGBT people, women, labor, youth, the elderly, the disabled, racial or religious minorities, immigrants or the environment are hard at work in your communities, and waiting for you to join them. Why don’t you?

If you cannot join a group, for whatever reason, there is one thing that you can do: VOTE. If you are U.S. citizen, a legal resident of your state, over 18 and not a convicted felon, you are eligible to vote. Though it might be too late to vote in most primaries, you still have time to register to vote for the November elections. Though Trump will not be up for re-election until 2020, voters in November will have a chance to slow

Trump’s momentum in its tracks electing opposition Senators and Representatives, Governors and State Legislators who will say NO and mean it; unlike the Trump droids who make up the current GOP Congress.

Many Americans do not vote; and Republicans in power do their best to keep people from voting, especially those who might vote against them. But you, my friend, must resist the temptation to do nothing.

Come November 6 - if not before, in places that allow early voting - you must step away from your easy chair and VOTE, as if your life depends on it. (Because it does.) Do not give Trump and his minions the last laugh. Let us have the last laugh, by electing candidates who will work hard to control his madness.

You can’t complain if you do not vote.

Visit RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov to register today. The deadline to register for this year’s general election is October 9.

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

Editorial Cartoon

Convictions

Editorial Cartoon

By Mike Luckovich

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8.15.2018 •

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8 .15.2018

Social MEDIA

intro

SFGN's SOCIAL MEDIA EDITION The ups and downs of connecting online

Brendon Lies

T

here's no question that social media has reshaped how we view society.

If you're LGBT, then that couldn't be more true.

A lot has changed since the days of hooking up on America Online.

Now, health organizations can access clients in the most remote parts of the world. And whether you're an activist or just coming out, there's no doubt you'll find someone online who shares your experience — something that was unfathomable to a gay teenager packing his bags in 1972.

Before I came out as trans, I had spent years seeing myself as "the only one like myself." But after browsing YouTube and searching the #ftm tag on Tumblr, I realized I couldn't be

more wrong.

The days of coming out without support are over.

But is social media truly the godsend that we've often made it out to be?

Just as we have found each other online, so have those who seek to destroy our community. Meanwhile, the lack of self-accountability from certain social media platforms, notably Facebook, have at the very least tarnished the meaning of community.

For better and for worse, gazing through the window of social media has undoubtedly changed the way we view our world.

But don't just take my word for it... keep reading and see for yourself.

8.15.2018 •

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Social MEDIA

instagram

The Rise of The ‘Instagay’ Gays use social media more than their straight counterparts Tucker Berardi

@jackmackenroth

“T

here’s an app for that” started as a tongue-incheek saying recognizing the ever-increasing versatility of smartphone applications. We have gotten to the point in which there is an app for virtually everything — even coming out of the closet.

“In the past, coming out tended to be a very personal experience, where you opened up about your sexuality to a small number of trusted family members or friends,” Paula Fagan, National Coordinator of LGBT Helpline, a youth support service said. “And while people are still careful about who they tell when they are first coming out, once they feel more comfortable about their sexuality, more and more people are choosing social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter as a way of telling other family members, friends, and their wider social circles.”

According to Fagan, figures from 2014 and 2015 show that 76.8 percent of LGBT people in the U.S. use Facebook compared to 57 percent of the general population, 44.5 percent of LGBT people use Twitter compared to 21 percent of the general population, and 35.5 percent use Instagram compared to 15.5 percent of the general population.

“We’re seeing that most people receive a lot of positive affirmation after coming out online,” Fagan said. “They find it a reassuring experience, with social media often helping them to feel less isolated and allowing them to tap into extensive online support networks.”

Coming out is not the only utility the LGBT community has found in social media. Applications like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram have become spaces for LGBT people to connect with one another across the globe — a feature

“The problem is that people don’t reconcile the truth [with the] illusion that they see on social… it can be a loss of queer history — a lot of younger guys don’t know where we came from..”

- Khalid El Khatib LGBT social media reporter

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especially valuable for those who live in less inclusive spaces.

“According to the Pew Research Center, 69 percent of adult gay males have indicated that they have met new LGBT friends online or through a social media networking site,” Gerbrandt van Heerden, research analyst at the South African Institute of Race Relations said.

Heerden continued, “There is no question that social media is an important component in advancing the rights and well-being of the LGBT community. Whether it is used as a tool to distribute information for educational purposes or raise awareness of the daily struggles of many LGBT people, it remains essential for the promotion of gay rights that social media outlets remain accessible.”

Social media as a collective has become a channel for change. But LGBT social media reporter Khalid El Khatib writes that many forms of social media activism can be dangerously surface-deep. Participation in social justice campaigns can be widespread and successful, but Khatib says the real measure of success is the number of voters these campaigns drive to the polls — a metric which thus far has left much room for improvement.

“Some people feel that social media activism is enough, and more traditional forms of advocacy like fundraising fall to the wayside,” Khatib said. “The unfortunate nature of who we are in 2018 is that we do the bare minimum to feel good about ourselves, and we are easily distracted.”

And distractions abound on social media, especially on Instagram. The LGBT community has built a strong network on the platform, but those at the forefront of that space are less concerned with positing for change and more concerned with posing for the camera.

Enter the relatively new phenomenon of Instagays — a type of Instagram user that New York Magazine describes as, “the gorgeous gay studs of Instagram.”

“Some of them have tattoos, some are carpeted with perfect chest hair, many are Israeli or Brazilian, and all apparently have lots of time to travel and pose half naked across the beaches of planet Earth,” The Cut reporter Mike Albo writes. “Winter doesn’t seem to exist for them, but they are especially present in summer. There are a lot of them, and they have tens of thousands of followers.”

The collective following amassed by these new gay social media supermen is by and large a good thing. Hundreds of thousands of people — the majority of them presumably other gay men — are following these gay guys and raising them to celebrity status.

However, shirtless pic after shirtless pic — while consistently tantalizing — does little to further the conversation on social change and LGBT rights that a platform as large as this one could allow.

The reality of most LGBT people is not perfect shirtless brunches in Los Angeles or Miami Beach, yet that is the content so many choose to consume and believe.

“We don’t have to be that serious all the time, [Instagram] isn’t change.org and we shouldn’t conflate the two,” Khatib said. “The problem is that people don’t reconcile the truth [with the] illusion that they see on social … it can be a loss of queer history — a lot of younger guys don’t know where we came from.”

Accounts like them, LGBTHistory, HuffPost Queer Voices and more are popping up in an attempt to shift the narrative, offering perspectives and viewpoints beyond the standard Instagay in hopes that everyone has a chance to have their voices heard.

“The diversity of content that exists for LGBT media is growing,” Khatib said. “People will always pick and choose the content they want to consume, and the menu is expanding.”

Social MEDIA

politics

Social Media Campaigns are Encouraging

Younger Generations to Register to Vote Tucker Berardi

“I

need you,” Hillary Clinton told a crowd of students at Temple University one month before the 2016 election. “I need you as partners, not just for winning this election, but for driving real change.”

She continued, “Not voting is not an option. That just plays into Trump’s hands. It really does.”

Following the results of the election it was released that only 49 percent of eligible millennial voters participated in the 2016 election.

The problem is not lazy or disengaged Millennials, but instead a voting process that hasn’t been updated since many of these voters were born.

“The overwhelming wisdom is that the people who didn’t turn out to vote … 60 percent of them, didn’t turn out because of process issues — either they couldn’t get their registration done in time, they forgot there was an election, they couldn’t get off work in time, those sorts of things,” Brandon Naylor, Director of Communications at DemocracyWorks said.

DemocracyWorks is a nonprofit organization founded

by Seth Flaxman and Kathryn Peters after Flaxman realized how many elections he had missed in grad school simply because he lost track of when they were taking place, and he could not find an online system in place to remind him.

“We can rent a movie, or connect with friends or go shopping — do all of these things that are arguably much less important than voting — a lot easier than we can actually interact with our democracy,” Flaxman said.

In 2012, DemocracyWorks helped nearly 200,000 people vote in the 2012 election with their TurboVote service, which keeps track of voter registration, rules and laws, forms and sends reminders of upcoming elections, and has even partnered with Facebook to send reminders to younger voters.

Rand Hoch, President of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council said getting younger people involved in the voting process is critical in ensuring policy change.

“We have an opportunity here in 2018 to be a game changer,” Hoch said. “You get these young people

“You get these young people involved and understanding what is going on, and the demographics of who is a voter changes drastically.”

- Rand Hoch President of the pBCHRC

involved and understanding what is going on, and the demographics of who is a voter changes drastically.”

According to Hoch, over 40 states had data showing that there were more people who didn’t vote than there were people who cast a vote for Trump.

He continued, “Right now seniors are the ones who vote the most. Fortunately we have a lot of supportive gay seniors here in Palm Beach County, maybe not so much around the rest of the world. You change the dynamics of the Millennial, who are the largest demographic, you change who is in Tallahassee, you change who is in D.C.” PBCHRC attaches voter registration links with almost everything it sends out, according to Hoch. Social media is a more effective channel for reaching younger generations than email or phone calls, and PBCHRC has used its Facebook page to attract younger audiences.

“Through history younger people have led civil rights movements, and it’s fair to say that the representation for the LGBT community and intersectional community, those are prime examples of how young people are getting involved in advocacy because those are the issues that matter most to them,” Naylor said.

“It makes perfect sense for advocacy organizations to look to voter resignation,” he continued. “You aren’t asking anybody to do anything in support of your specific advocacy; you’re asking people to perform their civic duty. It’s way harder to get somebody to sign a petition for a specific topic than it is to ask someone to register to vote, and we don’t ask how they vote.”

8.15.2018 •

29

Social MEDIA

instagram

The Travelin Bum

Exposing the LGBT Experience Tucker Berardi

T

he LGBT community is rife with coming out stories — some extravagant and celebratory, others heartbreaking — but everyone in the community has their story.

Jeff Perla, a 24 year old who struggled with his sexuality wanted to spin the stressful coming out process into something “therapeutic and inspiring.” That idea became The Travelin Bum, a blog and Instagram account that shares and celebrates coming out stories with a twist — guys (and girls) expose their histories as well as their butts.

“I started this blog because I was not out yet myself and I wasn’t sure on how I should approach it,” Perla said. “I came up with an idea to anonymously share people’s stories and learn about how other people did it.

As the account grew more and more people started reaching out for advice and it got to a point where I needed to share who I was.”

The Travelin Bum showcases butts from guys all over the world on Instagram, each one with a personal coming out story or experience as members of the LGBT community. Perla takes some of the photos

himself, but as the blog grew people started submitting their photos and experiences from all over the world — giving everyone an opportunity to have their stories heard.

The page has given followers a chance to interact with people with similar experiences while also exposing them to new perspectives. The Travelin Bum is not limited to largely gay-centric spaces like South Florida and New York — it connects gay people from all over the world.

“One of the things I love most is being able to share other people’s experiences as opposed to just sharing my own,” Jeff said. “I think people thrive on feeling relatable and that they are not alone. If someone reads my blog I think they can find someone to relate to.”

The majority of stories involve the coming out process, but some people share personal experiences with the LGBT community.

There are posts about body image, homophobia, family issues and more.

“Ever since I can think I was told I was too skinny and that I should eat more,” one post read. “I wasted a lot of time in my youth comparing myself to others, thinking

@thetravelinbum

“One of the things I love most is being able to share other people’s experiences as opposed to just sharing my own.”

- Jeff Perla @thetravelinbum

about how I could change myself … People might say I’m too small but I am skinny and fabulous.”

“Looking back, I wished that I had been honest with myself, but ultimately I am grateful for everything that I learned,” reads another. “I lost a few friends, but gained so many more. I am now in love, and proud of who I am. I unapologetically live my life the way I want.”

According to Perla, The Travelin Bum showcases a very human LGBT experience, one that he says is easier to identify with than LGBT representation in the past.

“My blog helps the LGBT community

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by making everyone feel welcomed,” he said. “I think the stigma of LGBT people on television has been very one sided, I never felt I could relate to someone gay in the public eye. Social media has made public figures, some of which are more popular than celebrities themselves.”

He continued, “I hope I give people a face to look up to, a place to go for advice when they have no one to talk to, and a place to watch gay culture and realize that gay culture does not force you into a bubble.

Gay culture should be celebrated and I hope that’s what The Travelin Bum exudes.”

“AS GOVERNOR, I WILL PROTECT

OUR LGBTQ COMMUNITY FROM TRUMP

Donald Trump threatens to reverse the progress we have made toward equality. Trump’s Supreme Court has already ruled in favor of bigotry, but Jeff Greene will fight to ensure Florida is protected from the dangerous Trump agenda.

and his Supreme Court.”

• Pass state level protections for LGBTQ rights, including marriage equality, adoption, and anti-discrimination laws.

• Pass the Florida Competitive Workplace Act to protect LGBTQ workers from being discriminated against or fired.

• Protect our children by establishing strict penalties for bullying based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

FIGHTING AGAINST HATE AND BIGOTRY

VOTE DEMOCRAT JEFF GREENE FOR GOVERNOR Paid by Jeff Greene, Democrat, for Governor.

8.15.2018 •

31

Social MEDIA

food

Dining in the

Information Age Rick Karlin

I

t used to be that a restaurant could thrive with a few well-placed print ads and good word of mouth. In the age of social media, that is no longer the case. The current generation of diners not only enjoys their meal, they enjoy documenting it and sharing it with the world. Every second, 12 newly active mobile accounts spring up on social media, steadily adding to the 2.3 billion social media users currently operational worldwide.

The hospitality industry needs social media as much as it hates it. Most restaurants now have Facebook pages, blogs, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram accounts. Larger chains have entire departments devoted to social media. Some of the more unscrupulous companies post phony reviews on sites such as Yelp to maintain high ratings.

Social media has changed the way we experience dining out. Even if you don’t post, Tweet or Snap your meal, restaurants are adapting their products and services to accommodate those who do. The design of the restaurant’s dining room has been tailored to promote social media postings.

Look around the next time you’re in a restaurant. Is there a large graphic or focal piece? It’s meant to promote folks to post to Snapchat or Instagram. Have you noticed

“Multiple five-starYelp reviews or a timely post from an influential foodie with thousands of Instagram followers has an instantaneous impact and can sometimes make or break a new restaurant.”

- Diana Hanford Pierson Grant Public Relations

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more lighting directly above tables? All the better to get that perfect shot of your plate.

Social media affects how chefs prepare and plate dishes as well as the design of the dish itself. The more customers choose to share their photos of a restaurant’s ivycovered patio, the farther that restaurant’s reputation reaches. It’s all free publicity, and “likes,” comments, and reposts extend that reach even further. Nearly half of those questioned in a recent survey claim they have learned about a restaurant through social media and a third of those surveyed had written or read online reviews.

Restaurants take advantage of the “checkin” features to do location-based marketing.

Almost 30% of Americans use their mobile devices to search for restaurants. For example, say a consumer goes to the app Foursquare/Swarm, LivingSocial or Groupon to check on dining options. Restaurants using the app for marketing can offer perks or discounts to people who check in, thus encouraging others to dine there as well.

Other restaurants go one step further, creating their own apps which can promote loyalty programs. In a recent survey, 46% of consumers said they would use a restaurant’s app.

Restaurant consumers happily snap pictures of their dishes and fill Yelp with their reviews, forcing the food service industry to adapt. It doesn’t matter whether those comments are informed and knowledgeable, on Yelp, everyone’s an expert! As my mother once said, “Opinions are like butt-holes; everyone’s got one, but that doesn’t mean I want to see or hear it.”

Restaurant owners have a love/hate relationship with sites like Yelp. Amateur food critics may bash a place because they couldn’t seat a large party without a reservation on a busy night. Restaurants know that a good Yelp rating is essential, a raise of one star in a rating can lead to a 5-10% increase in business.

“The PR agency I work for represents multiple restaurants, from fast casual chains to fine dining landmarks and social media is far and away the chief influencer,” said Diana

Hanford, account director at Pierson Grant Public Relations. “Multiple five-star Yelp reviews or a timely post from an influential foodie with thousands of Instagram followers has an instantaneous impact and can sometimes make or break a new restaurant.”

According to a recent social media survey the following are five of the most influential consumer sites for the dining and hospitality industry: • Yelp - was specifically designed to rate and review restaurants.

• Facebook - while it appeals to an older demographic, it is still a strong influencer.

• Instagram - a picture is worth a thousand words.

• Twitter - lends itself well to quick bits of information.

• Snapchat - an even more real-time outlet, information that disappears after a few hours.

Of course, many restaurants have house accounts for each of these sites and interact with them on a daily (if not hourly) basis. In addition, Google+ and Periscope (basically a video version of Twitter) are essential in helping those in the hospitality industry promote their business and products.

According to Julie Mullen of The Buzz Agency, “Don’t just post on social - respond to those who comment on your posts. We’ve found loyalty builds when a fan/follower feels like their comments were heard and responded to.”

While technically not a part of social media, blogs are essential for the industry.

House accounts provide an opportunity to outreach to potential customers, but also influence local media coverage, including independent bloggers.

Although anyone can set up a blog, it tends to be a case of survival of the fittest.

Those that know their stuff and know how to promote themselves garner the most hits. The more hits a blog gets, the more its influence grows. Some blogs are an outgrowth of other media (newspapers, radio, television) while others have been built, from the ground up, so to speak.

Social MEDIA

PEACE PIPE

food

YOur One stOp shOp fOr all YOur vapOr needs!

Sometimes the blogger has a background in the hospitality industry, sometimes they are just an enthusiastic consumer.

While there are many bloggers in South Florida, it seems many focus on either Miami or Palm Beach County. The following bloggers either focus on Broward County or offer extensive area coverage.

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Mike Mayo’s the Eat Beat southflorida.com This Sun Sentinel reporter knows his way around a dinner plate.

Check, Please! checkpleasefl.com An off-shoot of the PBS dining review/ cooking show.

Linda Gassenheimer dinnerinminutes.com The former WLRN contributor now has “Food News and Views,” on AM 880 The Biz. She is not only an accomplished journalist, she is a two-star trained chef.

Burger Beast burgerbeast.com This foodie has been around since September of 2008 and he also runs the Burger Museum located at Magic City Casino in Miami.

Eater miami.eater.com The coverage is international focus, but offers good local coverage as well.

The Plastic Spoon, theplasticspoon.com David Fuertes primarily covers Miami, but he’s so pretty we put him on the list anyway.

Foody Fetish @foodyfetish Yanni Georgoulakis has 2.7 million followers on Instagram because he makes food porn. It doesn’t hurt that he’s young and pretty, too.

The bloggers listed in the story are only the tip of the iceberg. Check out some of these other locals, all with at least 2,000 followers. @_badassfoodie @soflofoodie @stickaforkinme @glutenfreegalpal

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33

Social MEDIA

politics

Young and Gay? The Biden Foundation

Wants Your Story ‘As It Is’ Former VP’s foundation launches Social Media campaign for LGBT youth Gideon Grudo

T

he Biden Foundation is collecting testimonials from LGBT youth to showcase what a family’s acceptance means to young people in the community.

Announcing his eponymous foundation’s new campaign As You Are on Aug. 7, former Vice President Joe Biden said in a promotional video the goal is to “highlight the harms of family rejection, and to lift up research, best practices, and personal stories.”

For now, the As You Are campaign is in its discovery phase. The foundation wants young LGBT people to submit their stories online through its site. After asking about preferred pronouns and five words you feel describe you, the campaign has two main questions:

• Tell us about an experience

you’ve had with family and community acceptance and/or rejection. How has this experience impacted your life?

• Why is family and community acceptance important to you?

Photo credit: Joe Biden, via Facebook.

“... it is so important to support LGBTQ youth and let them know that they are not alone.”

- Amit Paley

Executive Director of the Trevor Project

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8 .15.2018

Emily Hecht-McGowan, the Biden Foundation’s director for LGBTQ Equality, said there’s no word limit in submitting answers, so stories can be as long as they need to be.

“Foundation staff will review all stories and will make choices based on stories that best represent the diverse experiences of the entire LGBTQ community,” Hecht-McGowan said. “We will begin sharing stories as early as next week.”

In sharing personal stories with its online and social mediamedia – comprising of Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram – followers, the campaign hopes to “inspire, to create communities, to heal families, and to change the broader culture to ensure a bright future for all LGBTQ young people,” according to a release.

“For now, social media will be the primary source for sharing stories,” Hecht-McGown told SFGN, “but we are considering other avenues as well.”

Front and center in promoting the new

campaign is a slew of stars, many of whom actively participate in its programs. Wade Davis, who’s said homophobia kept him in the closet until after his NFL career ended, is helping out.

As You Are is one of two campaigns in the foundation’s arsenal for its Ensuring LGBT Equality pillar, one of seven policy bases the foundation boasts. The pillar has its own 17-member advisory council, including familiar names like Judy Shepard and Cyndi Lauper.

“Gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth are more than four times more likely than their straight peers to attempt suicide. And 40% of transgender and gender nonconforming adults report having attempted suicide at some point in their lives, most of them before the age of 25,” said Amit Paley, the newly-minted executive director of the Trevor Project and one of the advisors to the foundation’s LGBT pillar. “That’s why it is so important to support LGBTQ youth and let them know that they are not alone.”

In May, the foundation launched its first campaign under the LGBT equality pillar, in conjunction with the YMCA. That campaign also focused on LGBT youth. Unlike the As You Are campaign, the foundation offered online its specific goals in the coming years.

In the first year, at certain YMCA locations across the U.S. vetted by the diversity of their members and their locations, the two groups would identify and build “strategies” to better serve local LGBT communities, according to the site. In the second and third years, these programs will be distributed to YMCA locations “nationwide.” To announce that campaign, Biden and YMCA President and CEO Kevin Washington penned an op-ed for CNN in May. “Today, too many members of the LGBTQ community continue to face discrimination, harassment, rejection and physical violence every day at school, at work, in their neighborhoods and even in their homes,” they wrote. “This crisis is especially severe among youth.”

Social MEDIA

Opinion

IS FACEBOOK STILL RELEVANT? Pier Angelo

T

he greatest single contribution made by Facebook to society is an unintended byproduct of the ubiquitous social media platform. By having a Facebook Page you can no longer hide in the closet. The process of "coming out" is a thing of the past.

Your posts, your "friends,” your pictures, the videos you upload, tell the story of your life for you. On Facebook being gay is soooooo 1990. Once you sign up you relinquish everything about yourself, you make your life a 24/7 broadcast. You trade privacy for public exposure. It makes it so much easier, especially for young gays, or anybody fitting one of its 56 gender identity options, to come to terms with themselves.

Statistics say that 70 percent of Americans have at least one gay friend on FB. Society's perception of who we are today, the progress we have made (see the speed of gay marriage), is in part due to the openness of social media.

But that is as far as I go.

Otherwise I have no use for Facebook. It's email or texting or spam on crack.

I don’t need, or want, “150 digital friends.”

A person's circle of actual (e.g. real) friends remains small and it is limited not by technology but by human nature. The psychological stress that a close relationship requires is considerable and we all have limited emotional capital to spare. The

It is called the Transparent Age; to me it's the Opaque Reality Age.

paradox is that, courtesy of social media, we have become more detached and isolated from one another, even lonelier, because this hyper interactivity is shallow if not ephemeral.

I am blessed with a few special, wonderful, friends whose face-to-face interaction I would not trade for a Facebook page. I would miss their laughter, their facial expressions, their quips, their jokes, their heartfelt impromptus comments, the sound of their voices, the animated conversation about a movie or an event, the eyes rolling, even their anger.

All of these are things that digital media has not yet achieved in transmitting through the glare of a screen. We meet fewer people now, we gather less, and when we do our bonds are not as meaningful because we are distracted by wanting to contact those who are not present. It is as if people are instantly bored with whoever is sitting in front of them and so they click and wait and click and wait for somebody else's page to chime in.

Don't wait for me. I promise that if I want to see pictures of your trip to Bumfuckville I will ask for them. If I want to know how bad the latest restaurant you tried is I will call you, or we can discuss it over two, or four, glasses of wine. Otherwise I really don't give a damn about what you had for breakfast, how your ferret is doing, or if you picked up your dry cleaning. I have better ways of wasting my time.

It is called the Transparent Age; to me it's the Opaque Reality Age. Most people live in a state of absolute dependence on their own, often imagined, views. Face it, you are muttering to yourself. Nobody really gives a shit about what you say on your page.

"Your friends" might hit the like button only because they want you to do the same when they post some inanities on theirs.

Your comments have also the power to piss off somebody else reading them even though they were not directed at them.

The emptiness of it all makes me want to turn the TV on and find a televangelist. He is certainly more stimulating. And if I want to read something boring I will print the transcripts of a Ted Cruz filibuster. It's verbal garbage, blatherskite plain and simple. All

those bits and pieces of useless narcissistic information are forever circling the internet like space junk. Everything is swallowed into oblivion but nothing goes away, and it is always retrievable, coming back to bite you when you least expect it. And all those pictures? Please, you are not taking and posting a selfie you are taking a lonely.

The fad is "personal branding" and over sharing. In order to over share you need something captivating to share. Furthermore a "status update” is NOT status. The truth is that often we are more interesting when we remain silent. Facebook allows its users to “like” everything from photos, to pages, to comments, to statuses. The obsession is to garner the public approval of everyone on the web, checking the phone every 20 seconds to keep track of incoming likes and then reaching a virtual orgasm from witnessing the number of "thumbs up" increase.

Teenagers find it boring these days, the novelty is gone. So, does FB really matter? Is it still relevant? In the early days there was

a rush to find everybody one could think of, amazed that it was possible, not considering whether they really wanted or not to reopen a contact with a long lost school chum or an estranged family member. Now people are busy with the sophomoric practice of "unfriending." It is so pointless; it’s a passive aggressive act. I long for the door slamming and shouted threats of never speaking again that got the point across clearly, not the cowardly click that quietly disconnects us.

If you must, just grow apart, like you should.

A friend of mine made the mistake of posting the announcement of her father's death. She was devastated when she promptly received 53 "likes.” Sadly, not one of these 53 "friends" picked up the phone, or wrote a card, to convey their condolences or lend a word of support. I loved George Clooney when he said: “I’d rather have a rectal examination on live TV by a fellow with cold hands than have a Facebook page."

I am so clicking the "like" button on that.

8.15.2018 •

35

Social MEDIA

Opinion

UNFRIENDLY FACEBOOK Pier Angelo

E

ons ago I signed up on Facebook. The whole experience lasted exactly three hours.

The moment my account was registered I was flooded with requests to become a "friend," my entire email address book became public property and I was instantly inundated with solicitations and messages,

even people I didn't know wanted to be my "friends."

I have never been so popular.

Passing acquaintances, strangers, long-lost family members I didn't care to communicate with, co-workers, people with my same last name, I had no idea who they were, and why were they writing me from

Brazil, Venezuela, Italy? I quickly realized my privacy was on parade and proceeded to delete my account. It has never been revived.

One of the best decisions I have ever made.

FB to me is email on crack.

Facebook is in hot waters. It turns out the company let a "research spider" crawl through its social network and spawn a web collecting information on 50 million people. The data was used to target likely Trump supporters. As if it wasn't enough that the Russians used Facebook to spread disinformation/misinformation during the last presidential elections.

Facebook now claims that it has been experimenting with a fact-checking function to keep its news feed honest, but these efforts feel lukewarm and condescending.

The end result is that our Democracy is on its knees and the sense of control over our destinies has been crushed. Europe is far ahead of us. The EU's General Data Protection Regulation went into effect May 25 and tightens the rules for handling employee and consumer data which includes addresses, photos, financial records, travel plans, web search history and more. The most serious violations can result in fines up to $25 million.

Do we trust our Congress to bring about the same type of regulation? Do we trust Congress to use a corkscrew to open a bottle of wine?

Since nothing will ever come out of Congress, the punishment must come from its users or from its stock holders.

This is beginning to happen. The phrase #DeleteFacebook has flooded social media, and for the first time daily user counts are falling and the time spent on the site plummeted by 50 million hours a day. In the beginning of July the U.K. Information Commissioner’s Office fined FB 500k pounds ($ 660k) for its role in the Cambridge Analytica data breach. The penalty is the

maximum allowed under U.K. law. FB said it will respond to the judgement “soon.” To add insult to injury on Thursday, July 26, Facebook lost about $120 billion in market capitalization, after its earnings report showed missed expectations on revenue and slowing user growth. Weak guidance also rattled investors.

The stock closed down 19 percent which means that investors erased the entirety of the company’s 2018 gains.

Chief Financial Officer David Wehner disclosed that the social-media giant expects the revenue-growth slowdown to continue. As Facebook stock plummeted, it also brought social media rivals Twitter and Snapchat to the party. It initially sent Snapchat down in the single digits, though it rebounded and closed down 0.2 percent.

Twitter stock closed down 2.9 percent.

The chickens are coming home to roost.

Facebook is irresponsible, unethical, arrogant, dangerous, greedy and deserves to be severely punished and repudiated. They are the new polluters, they are spilling toxic brain poison in our thinking reservoirs. One thing is certain: Facebook’s stock plunge shatters faith in tech companies’ invincibility and arrogance. That is a good beginning.

John Oliver, the host of HBO’s “Last Week Tonight” hit the nail on the head with the following parody of Facebook’s latest problems: “Your data enabled us to make a fuck-ton of money from corporations, app developers and political campaigns...

Seriously you guys, we were making so much money off of you, you don't even understand.

But then, you found out about it. And we had to testify and issue bullshit apology ads, all so we could lose $120 billion."

But what will Facebook do going forward?

"Nothing's really gonna change. We've got your data. We've got your friends. And, really, where are you gonna go? Friendster?

Fuck you."

The end result is that our Democracy is on its knees and the sense of control over our destinies has been crushed.

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8 .15.2018

Social MEDIA

Opinion

Asocial Media Pier Angelo

A

round the world, Facebook and other social networking platforms are facing backlash over their failures to safeguard privacy, combat disinformation and curtail the digital reach of hate groups.

At least a dozen designated terror groups have a presence on FB, as shown by a review conducted by Bloomberg Business Week.

Among them Hezbollah, Hamas, Islamic State, al-Qaeda, and Boko Haram. They can simply be found by typing their names into FB's search bar either in English, Spanish, or conveniently, in Arabic. Many of these groups proudly link their FB pages on their home websites. And even when FB takes down one of the sites they quickly reappear with tweaks to make them seem new.

Social media has become a receptacle of hate. Everyone

is against everyone else, everyone is complaining about the other group and everyone is saying the same horrible things.

It is a basket of deplorables.

The phrase #DeleteFacebook has flooded social media, and for the first time daily user counts are falling and the time spent on the site plummeted by 50 million hours a day.

Years ago FB was a novelty. It is becoming ubiquitous and mundane for many, it has reached critical mass, and Twitter’s only claim to fame is Trump's daily garbage spewing.

Private, locked, exclusive, restricted to paying or recommended members only, alternative social media networks are popping up all over.

Can they still be called "social" if they are open only to an elite? Sounds like an oxymoron but that's what they are.

Here are a few:

1. RichKids: For 1,000 Euros a month ($1,200) it is the social network for those

spoiled kids who love to post pictures of private jets, lavish pool parties, and exotic destinations, away from the masses.

2. LuxuryKids: The spoiled brats don't even have to text, only post outrageous pictures flaunting their wealthy lifestyles.

3. ASW:

(A Small World), is a community of high-end travelers. It allows its members to rent a villa on any Mediterranean Island, meet friends for dinner in Hong Kong, and be a guest at one of the many parties around the world. The paid subscription includes discounts on trips and free access to over 100 exclusive night clubs worldwide.

Transportation to and from airports is free.

4. VERO:

This is another private social network for a limited number of chosen friends. It aims to share daily life automatically through its app. In the month of April it had more than 500,000 downloads. Members do not have to write anything, with the smartphone in their pockets every movement is recorded. (Talk about loss of privacy.)

5. TUENTI: This is a play on words between TU - Spanish for "You" - and "Twenty."

And 20 is the number of real friends allowed in your circle. The premise is: "Why should we call friends those who are only mere acquaintances?"

6. YAMMER: This is a restricted and private version of LinkedIn. It is geared

to appeal to people involved in work projects, research and development, allowing the exchange of feedback, comments, ideas, questions and upgrades with other experts around the world.

There are also private social media platforms for newly engaged couples and for new parents but those are limited to a very small numbers of contacts.

These are the seeds of a digital revolution. Like many other fads Facebook is losing its "coolness." Its hold and monopoly are beginning to disintegrate, Social Media is becoming extremely fragmented, and the trend is to stand out from the herd.

With all this "we are more connected" technology, we will be even more apart.

Asocial Media is here to stay.

8.15.2018 •

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Social MEDIA

activism

Activism Groups Find

New Strategies in Social Media Tucker Berardi

W

ithin hours of the Pulse nightclub massacre that claimed the lives of 49 victims, Facebook and Twitter feeds were swarmed with messages of grief and solidarity, with hashtags like #PrayForOrlando, #Pulse and #OrlandoStrong quickly gaining traction.

The more recent shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida saw a similar social media reaction, and this time the students and surrounding community quickly turned it into an opportunity for change, creating the “March For Our Lives” movement, which has over 280,000 followers on Facebook.

According to University of Texas Sociology and Communications professor Dhiraj Murthy, a number of social issues have benefited from the use of social media.

In some cases, social media was central in the creation of activism organizations.

“Recent social movements such as Black Lives Matter transitioned from tweet debates to action on the streets which profoundly shaped ‘national discourse about race,’” Murthy said. “Activist organizations are increasingly seeing the value of social media for recruitment, public engagement, and campaign organization.”

Locally, the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council has been using social media to keep its local audience informed, but has found that people from all over the country have followed its Facebook page.

“We have people who get on our website and Facebook page and are interacting from places like North Dakota and Idaho that don’t have a huge organized gay community,” Rand Hoch, president of PBCHRC said. “They may not have a lot of people supporting them back home, but they can make a post on Facebook and get a response — it is great for community building. There are so many different ways, once you reach out, to get people interacting and communicating with one another.”

PBCHRC posts updates on ordinances it is working on and

“Activist organizations are increasingly seeing the value of social media for recruitment, public engagement, and campaign organization.”

- Dhiraj Murthy University of Texas Sociology and Communications professor

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8 .15.2018

gets users involved in efforts such as its recent push to ban conversion therapy at the city and county level.

“When we post links to ordinances, we will get responses from all over the country,” Hoch said. “We’ve been working with a couple of groups up in Ohio and Pennsylvania that are doing the sorts of stuff we are doing. They are stuck with a legislature that isn’t responsive, but they are doing something similar to what we are doing here with local public officials who understand the need to make change because it is not going to happen elsewhere.”

According to Hoch, social media is also a critical tool for reaching younger audiences who are passionate about LGBT issues and more, but may be unsure of how to get involved.

“The younger you are, the more likely you are to respond to social media as opposed to something in the mail or even a phone call.”

LGBT reporter Khalid El Khatib said that social media has become an integral part of activism and social movements, especially in younger generations — but often that participation fails to move beyond a digital space.

“We are seeing voices coming out of more rural areas,” Khatib said. “How can queer communities in less queercentric spaces organize and mobilize?”

Khatib said that social media can be a great tool for

organizing and communicating with social movements, but these platforms can also give a false sense of participation.

The younger generation will readily like and share activism messages, and believe that is enough to enact change – also known as slacktivism.

Slacktivism is defined as “actions performed via the Internet in support of a political or social cause but regarded as requiring little time or involvement, e.g., signing an online petition or joining a campaign group on a social media website,” according to dictionary.com.

“Generation Z, the people who were born to be content creators, are taking the forefront on these issues,” Khatib said. “Twitter and Instagram can definitely get people to show up to protests — but will it result in an uptick in 18-to20 year old voters … the verdict is still out.”

PBCHRC includes links to voter registration in almost every email they send out, according to Hoch.

Social media can be effective in disseminating messages of change, Khatib said, but also makes it easier to do the bare minimum in terms of participation.

“We need to push organizations to do better — prioritize the online and offline,” Khatib said. “The real measure will be the 2018 and 2020 elections, and how many young people come out to vote.”

Social MEDIA

statistics

KEEP YOUR EYES ON

South Florida Gay News

It’s about time. It’s about us. A paper that speaks with you, to you, and about you.

A paper that pulls no punches, protects our friends, defends our allies, and defines our adversaries. Our goal is to have you make our paper your home page.

Welcome to the South Florida Gay News.

SFGN.com @SoFlaGayNews

SouthFloridaGayNews @SoFlaGayNews

Classic style... high tech platform.

No room for a newspaper in your back pocket? Keep SFGN’s weekly paper on your phone.

“South Florida Gay News”

8.15.2018 •

39

Social MEDIA

Section

PrEP Priority

Local latino Group uses gay dating apps to combat HIV Damon Scott

N

ew cases of HIV in the Miami area are the highest in the nation and the Latino population is one of the most

at risk.

An effort has evolved to bring those numbers down through education and access to the HIV prevention drug PrEP in some unconventional ways.

Prevention305 has trained “peer navigators” to reach Latinos, primarily – many of whom are immigrants and/or don’t speak much if any English. The navigators use popular gay dating apps like Grindr and Tinder to introduce them to the drug.

Miami resident John Byrne started Prevention305 a few years ago and serves as its executive director. He’s also the founder and controlling partner of Raw Story Media and AlterNet Media – part of a group of LGBT-owned news sites in the U.S. It was a rare false-positive HIV test that spurred Byrne toward the nonprofit’s new work.

“If you’ve had a false-positive, you know it can take a week to get the confirmation back,” Byrne said. “I thought: oh my God, I’m

that one in a million person, because I was taking PrEP. I thought: No one needs to go through this.”

The drug was solidly top of mind for Byrne and he didn’t think enough was being done to get the word out about it. PrEP reduces the risk of HIV transmission by more than 90 percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). For drug users the risk is lowered by more than 70 percent.

What is it?

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis.

The CDC says you’re considered very high risk if you’re a gay or bisexual man who has anal sex without a condom. It also considers as very high risk those who are HIV-negative, but are in an ongoing sexual relationship with someone who is HIV-positive.

PrEP is a combination of two HIV medicines sold under the name Truvada.

When used correctly, the CDC says PrEP can stop HIV from taking hold and spreading.

Critics though point out that PrEP does not prevent other STIs such as syphilis.

Torrealba (left) with ‘peer navigators’ handing out information at the 2018 Stonewall Pride festivities in Wilton Manors. Photo courtesy of Prevention305

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8 .15.2018

Miami resident John Byrne, Executive Director and founder of Prevention305. Photo courtesy of Prevention305

From posters to peers Byrne’s early push for outreach consisted of a grassroots effort of making posters for health centers and fitness clubs – the “Swallow This” graphic that shows a blue PrEP pill on a man’s outstretched tongue.

He had the poster done in both English and Spanish.

“I slowly realized as a white person in Miami what I was running up against,” Byrne said. “The translation of the poster in Spanish didn’t work. I realized I couldn’t do this on my own.”

On a whim he began doing PrEP education on Grindr. He created a profile with PrEP information and the line: “Contact me if you want info on how to get PrEP.” “I was blown away by the response,” Byrne said. “There was a demand. Some had heard about it, but didn’t know where to go.”

For a year he went to conferences, made connections and wrote grants (he got one each from Gilead Sciences and AIDS United).

Byrne, 37, then hired a digitally savvy gay Venezuelan man to be his program director – Marco Torrealba.

Torrealba, 34, was tasked by Byrne this year to hire peer navigators and train them in customer service, marketing and technology to make the dating app connections with Latinos about PrEP. “People don’t have access because a lot of the information is in English,” Torrealba, who moved to South Florida three and a half years ago, said. “This is why Latinos are not having access to PrEP, the lack of information. When you are an immigrant, you can be in a bubble. Sometimes you get nervous.”

Torrealba said his training methods are heavy on the use of empathy and innovation.

“In order to reach and communicate with a different culture you have to be very empathetic,” he said. “Those who are arriving or those who don’t speak English or fear for any political situation will not go inside [a health clinic]. The best way to do it is to have a [peer navigator] right there.”

His peer navigators create profiles on the sites and spread the word about PrEP. Torrealba said the format takes some of the initial nervousness away and he stresses that they are not creating fake or misleading

Social MEDIA

Section

profiles. All his peer navigators are younger and are people of color.

“Once they say hi to the person; how are you today; I am fine; I want to tell you I am here to offer PrEP,” Torrealba said. “People say yes or no. Peer navigators are trained and have to be aware to be straight with the message. That person will block you and report your profile otherwise.”

Byrne and Torrealba have found an audience with Instagram as well, hiring Instagram influencers, both because it’s effective and because not everyone uses gay dating sites or apps, he said.

“People go to Instagram to see if you’re for real, see a face, see a video, see who is working at Prevention305,” Torrealba said.

“When you are an immigrant, you can be in a bubble.

Sometimes you get nervous.”

- Marco Torrealba program director

305 advantages Prevention305 is able to help a client receive the drug more quickly with wait times reduced from months to weeks. In most cases, the drug is available for free, either through insurance or if a client makes less than $58,000 a year and doesn’t have insurance.

Anyone can sign up on their website to book an appointment and to go over options.

“Clients know they aren’t alone in this process. Peer navigators are with clients during the appointment if they have questions or are nervous,” Torrealba said.

By the numbers In less than six months, Prevention305 has reached almost 300 people and has about 100 taking PrEP. “While it may not sound like a lot, there's only about 1,500 people on PrEP in all of Miami-Dade, so I think our early success is a big number,” Byrne said.

Byrne said to look for Prevention305 at events and festivals around South Florida and said he’s also working toward opening a mobile PrEP clinic in collaboration with the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine at The Gaythering hotel, sauna and bar in Miami Beach.

Byrne, ‘peer navigator’ Latavia Goldson (also known as Fantasia Royale) and Torrealba at a recent PrEP event in South Florida. Photo courtesy of Prevention305

For more Prevention305’s website in English and Spanish is at prevention305.org and prevencion305.org.

Complete CDC information on PrEP is available at cdc.gov/hiv/risk/prep.

8.15.2018 •

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Publisher's Editorial

Convictions

Tweeting My Way to Hell My 25 Favorite Tweets of 2018

Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com x

S

o I will never write that great novel, but this November, I am releasing a calendar entitled “Chairman Norm’s 365 Tweets a Year Daily Calendar.” You will be able to pick them up here at SFGN. Make your reservations early. They could make the NY Times Top Ten List. And to think everybody here says I have no ego.

Anyway, last year, I published a column of my favorite tweets, and I scored a hundred new followers within a week. Of course, I will never have as many as my gay porn star clients. I openly reveal my startling sarcasm and insightful political views daily and I still can barely reach 2,000 followers. But Ryan Rose shows off his muscular nakedness and can have 50,000 guys lined up on his page to hear about his latest journey into tawdry naughtiness.

Here is what I don’t understand. If Donald Trump is such a great deal maker, why is he paying $150,000 a night for hookers and escorts? I know I never try to go over $ 100,000 a night for mine.

President again called free press ‘enemy of the people’ last night. Funny, I thought a free press was In Bill of Rights and the First Amendment to our constitution. Trump swore an oath to defend that, not defame it; not sabotage it. If he won’t, he belongs in jail for Treason, Hard not to hear that Mark Zuckerberg lost 16 billion dollars today with Facebook. That hurts. I hope he goes for an old fashioned NY style Egg Cream. I know that whenever I lose 16 billion dollars in a day I go for an Egg Cream. You feel much better.

Mark Zuckerberg. Photo by b_d_solis, Wiki.

What the hell, I will stick to who I am, just a humble guy with a modestly successful newspaper and a law practice that has fought for a free press and your rights for 40 years.

That works for me. Still, for my tombstone, I want a simple epitaph: “All in All, I would rather be at the ballpark.” Anyway, that is a day and tombstone I would like to delay for half a century. By then, I will have finished my novel and learned how to use a computer.

In the meantime, my daily journey gets kicked off with reading the news from the night before, fake or not, and coming up with 140 words or less of lines that illuminate our existence and showcase our lives. So once again, in what I suspect will be a great excuse for not writing a real column, here are my favorite tweets of 2018. You can find them all on @normkent. Let’s get those numbers up. Make Ryan Rose jealous.

If tariffs, Mr. Trumps, are a ‘great thing,’ and ‘trade wars are easy to win’ , how come we are paying out 12 billion to farmers to bail them out of trouble? And by the way if our government has 12 B lying around, can you use it to find the parents of about 2,000 kids you lost?

Wasn’t sure of what President gave away last week or why he invited Putin to visit White House. until I got a peek look today at return address on the envelopes of his invitations to Russian boss.

Reads: ‘The Kremlin Annex, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C.’

So excited for our President. He is getting yet another new award today- as Citizen of the Year!

Of course, it will take a few hours for him to fly to Moscow to receive it.

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8 .15.2018

So now the vile president that is Trump calls the emigration of those parents and children yearning to be free an “infestation.” Funny, that is what the exterminator called the termites who were swarming in my house. They were gassed. I guess that is what Trump has in mind.

A man was captured this morning inside the White House and charged with a hate crime for using a computer to send out vile and vicious tweets. Was hoping perpetrator may be arrested and charged, but seems the guy’s wife, Melania, got him out on his own recognizance.

The baseball trading season has begun in earnest.

A day after Manny Machado went to Dodgers for prospects, today the Indians acquired Brad Hand from the Padres for a catcher. Earlier in the week Vladimir Putin and the Russians acquired Donald Trump from the Americans for some nude photos.

42

For calling the press the ‘enemy of the people’ one day and then trying to say he is sorry five of our own were killed the next, President Trump can go screw himself. He is a knowing accomplice to the murders, criminally complicit in the killer’s deeds.

Donald Trump. Caricature

by DonkeyHotey.

Someone remind our twitchy-fingered tweeterin-chief that every single person investigated, implicated, indicted, embroiled ensnared, or arrested in Russian scandal- factual or not- are persons vetted, screened, interviewed, hired, and empowered by him, his team, and no one else.

Well maybe Pee Wee Herman had some influence, cause after all…

Publisher's Editorial

Convictions

“So delighted to hear that Jarod Kushner has been denied a top security clearance. Knowing that my grandmother’s secret recipe for borscht is safe for another century will let me sleep better at night.”

Norm Kent @normkent

Hey if Facebook is so damn smart about compiling information about people’s lives, how come I got ‘wish your friend a happy birthday notice’ the past two days for guys who have passed away? That they don’t eliminate but the shampoo I buy on the Internet they save?

I know occasionally there are more serious problems in this world but my job on Twitter and Facebook is to make you smile while simply pointing out life’s sweet ironies. Now isn’t a Subway running out of tuna at lunchtime like Dunkin’Donuts not having jelly donuts in the morning?

My new respiratory therapy medicine is a prescription for an inhaler called Striverdi that is not covered by Medicare and costs $300 a month to fill. It would be cheaper to have someone break into the CVS and steal it for me.

Watching the top 50 MLB plays of the week, and you just have to be amazed at the athleticism, fitness, stretch, size, and strength of today’s ballplayers. Then Bartolo Colon takes the mound

Got a question. While Trump spends millions of American dollars in the next few years building a monstrous wall, what’s the over/under on how many tunnels the Mexicans will build in that time?

From the ‘You can’t make this up department’student survivors of #MSD are arriving in Tallahassee to hear house legislators debating a bill about whether pornography is a public health risk. That they will ban.

It just dawned upon me, as a publisher, that it would be ‘Breaking News,’ if CNN announced, just once, at the top of an hour , that they had no ‘breaking news.’

Trump has created a world where evil is good, and to stay in power and profit from it, legislators protect the lie. I have met people like this for 40 years as a criminal defense lawyer. Usually, the last time I ever see them is at sentencing pleading for mercy from a judge.

My cardiologist is telling me that all my Nathan’s hot dogs and Philly cheese steaks have been very cruel and insensitive to the left and right ventricles of my heart, and I should think about a vegan future. Can you put mustard and sauerkraut on Tofu?

Crushing blow today for NORML activists. Here I am at ground-breaking National Jewish Health Center for Respiratory Therapy in Denver, a venue where Cannabis is legal! All I asked for was the sativa-infused oxygen tanks and they say ‘we don’t make those yet.’ Fight on we must!

So delighted to hear that Jarod Kushner has been denied a top security clearance. Knowing that my grandmother’s secret recipe for borscht is safe for another century will let me sleep better at night.

Let’s face it. Trump has so fucked up the White House and his presidency that most intelligent Americans would like it is if all we had to care about were his scores of extramarital sexual affairs from years ago.

The opposition is being made to feel so uncomfortable by Stoneman Douglas students so effectively and articulately publishing their outrage at the mass murder of their friends they are now desperately saying the kids are ‘paid actors.’ Ha! Well, if they are, they were cast very well.

In Florida, if we go fishing in lobster season there is a limit on catch sizes and numbers. If you go deer or game hunting there is a 5 magazine clip limit on rifle you can use. Guess legislators think these limits should apply to crustaceans and wild boar but not kids in school

8.15.2018 •

43

Convictions

Check out the new Food and Dining section

Out Now!

Guest Column

The Grille Blasts Yelp ‘Help, this feels like a personal attack now!’

Randy Abendschein

The Renée Greenberg Emerging Artists Project PRESENTS

An Evening of

PUCCINI Stephen M.Crawford, Music Director Martha Collins, Stage Director

Sunshine Cathedral Cathedral Sunshine Avenue Fort Lauderdale 14801480 SWSW 9th9thAvenue Fort Lauderdale August 26, 2018 7:30pm August 26, 2018 Come hear a fresh approach to a classic art form, featuring the best South Florida voices.

B

ut wait... Yelp doesn’t write good or bad reviews, only provides a platform for them to be seen, right? But what if Yelp could choose which reviews get seen and which don’t, thus controlling and affecting what we viewers see and controlling our star rating when we pull up a business on their site. They can and do. And they don’t try to deny it either. I’ve been closely monitoring Yelp activity from a prior business up to my current one and I can assure you, there’s more going on than just a site for people to share their experiences to help others online. Something I feel can be vital to the success or failure of a business. But before we get into this, let me start by giving you a brief introduction to who we are.

We are The Grille On The Drive, which is a steakhouse and seafood restaurant as well as a bar located in Wilton Manors, Florida.

In our community, there are about 30-35 restaurants and bars located along a one mile stretch. Needless to say, it can become quite competitive, especially in off season with mostly locals and a limited number of tourists in our area. There are no other steakhouses or salad bars on our Drive. We have an amazing chef that has charged $4050 for entrees in his previous restaurants, yet our prices range from $14-28. We have friendly, smiling servers and bartenders, a newly designed interior with a separate area for a Piano Cabaret and we have managers and an owner that are constantly on the floor greeting and checking in on our diners to make sure their experience is going well; ones that really care about pleasing our guests. We’ve been open for 60 days during off season, yet we’ve been busy.

Businesses are automatically added to Yelp soon after opening, not something signed up for. So right off, you’re in their system whether you like it or not. We were approached immediately by Yelp sales people to advertise with them. Our owner had advertised with Yelp for a previous business for $600 a month, approximately 15 months.

But we chose to hold off advertising for this new restaurant, simply because we just didn’t feel we benefit enough prior to justify the cost at this time. There were a few rather aggressive additional attempts from their sales staff to close us, but we refrained. They do however charge $25 a month fee if you’d like to control which photos are displayed on your Yelp site. For our last business, Yelp had chosen a Happy St. Patrick’s Day photo as our main thumbnail and random customer non-quality pics for over 3 months after we stopped advertising. Think about that one for a moment. Not our choice to be on the site, but really need to pay at least the $25 not to look bad or misrepresented by images they choose.

June 1, 2018 we opened our doors for the first time. Even though we planned for a soft opening to work out any kinks beforehand, we were surprised to get slammed with a full house by word of mouth with over 300 customers. We are not a small restaurant/ bar, but this historic location with four separate rooms (once separate businesses) seats approximately 280 inside and 80 outdoors. A lot of drinks, food and laughter later we ended our first night feeling really good. The first reviews on Yelp were in days later after they added us to their site.

visit sfgn.com to read the rest.

Tickets at OperaFusion.org or at the door: $25 or VIP $40 44

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8 .15.2018

Let your voice be heard!  Submit your own letter to Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com

f o t s e B 8 1 0 2

it’s time to

NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITES!

Vote for your favorite South Florida businesses

Throughout August readers will get to nominate their favorites in each “Best Of” category. In September readers will vote for the finalists

Visit sfgn.com/BestOf Best Restaurant Best Take Out Best Pizza Best Guest House Best Neighborhood Bar Best Nightclub Best Place To Shop

Best Happy-Hour Best Pet Groomers Best Coffee Shop Best Drag Queen Best Movie Theater Best City to Live In Best Non-Profit

Best Gym Best Live Theater Best Business Group Best Beach Best Hair Salon Best Spa ... And many more!

8.15.2018 •

45

lifestyle food

Via Facebook Via Facebook

Via Facebook

Sizzling Summer Dining Deals Rick Karlin

A

s temperatures rise, prices drop during a trio of promotional dining deals in Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Boca Raton.

Miami Spice is Nice

During August and September, fine dining restaurants will offer three-course prix-fixe Miami Spice menus at reduced prices ($23 per person for lunch and brunch / $39 per person for dinner) in some of the destination’s most popular and vibrant neighborhoods – Miami Beach, Bal Harbour, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Doral, Downtown Miami, South Miami, Sunny Isles, and Wynwood. Prices include an appetizer, entrée and dessert; tax, tip, libations and service charges are additional. A Miami Spice fan-favorite addition that made its way into the line-up just last year will return with select restaurants offering irresistible brunch menus for $23 per person. To date, 243 restaurants are participating, with 51 joining for the first time. For an updated list check out MiamiSpice@gmcvb.com.

Abierto la Boca

Crave Your Fave

•

8 .15.2018

person.

Running from Sept.

1-30, Crave Greater Fort Lauderdale celebrates some of Broward County’s top restaurants, chefs and cuisine. Indulge in the area’s hottest culinary experiences, enjoying specially-created three-course gourmet dinner menus for either $35 or $45. Participating restaurants are listed at sunny.org.

Hungry for more?

46

Savor the Flavor

Boca Restaurant Month, Sept.1-30, Flavor Palm Beach is a month-long is a month-long restaurant dining event taking place celebration of Boca Raton’s throughout September to incredible array of culinary introduce diners to the A Miami Spice fanexperiences. Now in its second vast array of restaurants favorite addition year, each participating throughout Palm Beach restaurant offers a threeCounty.

Participating that made its way course prix fixe dinner menu restaurants will present a into the line-up priced between $36 and $40 selection of specially priced and/or a three-course prix fixe three-course meals priced just last year will lunch menu priced between at $20 for lunch and $30return with select $21 and $25. This does not $45 for dinner. Reservations include tax or gratuity. restaurants offering are strongly recommended.

The list of participating For a list of participating irresistible brunch restaurants is available at restaurants, go to flavorpb. menus for $23 per bocarestaurantmonth.com. com.



In Other News

The inaugural South Florida Wine and Beer Festival will debut Saturday Aug. 18, from noon to 9 p.m. at Arts Park in Hollywood. The Caribbeanthemed celebration offers exotic fruit flavored wine and beer along with Caribbean music and food. In addition to free wine and beer samples, there will be live music as well as a DJ, art displays and

cooking demonstrations. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Alibi/Monkey Bar is “Loco 4 Locals”, meaning that they’re showing local customers some appreciation, by offering 20% off all food purchases to locals (must show Florida I.D.) during lunch, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. through the end of August. It’s been going on all summer, but I just found out.

At least you still have a couple of weeks to sneak in a ladies who lunch date!

Vinos on Galt Mile, 3312 NE 32nd St., hosts Wine Bingo Wednesdays for a Cause, every other Wednesday throughout the summer. Gather at Vinos and dab away at your Bingo cards.

Each player is encouraged to donate a minimum of $1 per Bingo card for every round played. The winner of each round receives a $10 gift certificate they may either use on another night or gift to someone else. It supports local charity every week, including a variety of animal rescue agencies, the Alzheimer’s Association and Kids in Distress.

Visit SFGN.com/FOOD!

SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM No matter our face...

LOCAL NAME. GLOBAL COVERAGE.

SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM

We’re here for you.

THE SFGN MEDIA FAMILY SOCIAL MEDIA

NEWSLETTER

Our Business is About Making You Business.

954-530-4970 Contact Our Sales Department

8.15.2018 •

47

lifestyle photos

Impulse Group Promotes Body Positivity

JR Davis

Impulse Group South Florida hosted a complimentary event, P.O.V., Sunday, August 12 at R House Wynwood in Miami. The focus of the gathering was to encourage body positivity and promote a positive mindset within the LGBT community. “We want to empower individuals’ confidence to look in the mirror and be proud – not ashamed – of what they see staring back at them,” Impulse South Florida President Adrian Vargas said in a press release. “Our goal is to make you feel proud about your point of view of yourself and others. Things like age, looks, and waist size shouldn’t define who you are.”

TP Lords

Kat Wilderness

Ali

To see many more photos, visit South Florida Gay News on Facebook.

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8 .15.2018

The Criminal Defense Law Center of South Florida

The Practice Of Law Is No Practice.

Four Decades of experience.

A lifetime of trust.

954.763.1900

Russell Cormican

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

Norman Elliott Kent

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

www.NormKent.com

THE MAGIC BEHIND THE

STAGE GO BEHIND THE SCENES

Shana Tova from Congregation Etz Chaim Join Rabbi Noah Kitty and Cantor Jerry Berkowitz, along with community members and friends, to bring in the New Year 5779!

Rosh Hashanah is Sunday September 9th at 8pm and Monday, September 10th at 10am

Yom Kippur (Kol Nidre) is Tuesday September 18th at 8pm Wednesday September 19th services starting at 10am, followed by: Yizkor, Healing and Concluding services

Every week, SFGN brings you an inside look on what’s hitting the stage near you. From interviews with producers to exclusive peeks at new performances, we’re here to make sure you’re ready for every show.

A complete ticket series for all holiday services is $200 per person,

or $60 per individual service per person (afternoon services no ticket req.)

Tickets are available and may be purchased online

Evening services begin at 8pm • Morning services begin at 10am Check our website for information on Yizkor Remembrance book entries; Rosh Hashanah Lunch & Yom Kippur BreakͲTheͲFast; Welcome Book Ad Journal and special membership information…..www.EtzChaimFlorida.org

Congregation Etz Chaim

(services held at Pride Center at Equality Park, B building, rear)

SFGN.COM/SFGN-ARTICLES/AE

2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954Ͳ564Ͳ9232 • www.EtzChaimFlorida.org ͲProudly serving the LGBTQ Community since 1974Ͳ

8.15.2018 •

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SFGNITES

FOR THE WEEK OF August 16 - August 21, 2018 • WWW.SFGN.COM J.W. Arnold

Take it off!

jw@prdconline.com

THU

8/16

Film Halloween is still a couple of months away, but if you love scary flicks, then head down to Savor Cinema, 503 S.E. 6th St. in Fort Lauderdale, for the final night of Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival’s Popcorn Frights Film Festival. Oh, the horror!

Tonight, see Russian feature, “Deadly Still,” Japanese thriller, “One Cut of the Dead,” and the American film, “Piercing.” More information and tickets at FLIFF.com.

FRI

8/17

Concert Latina goddess Shakira brings her “El Dorado” tour to the American Airlines Center in Miami tonight and tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. The Colombian-born Grammy winner will perform selections from her latest album, as well as favorites from her 2001 English-language breakout, “Laundry Service.” In addition to her signature sounds, don’t miss her high fashion costumes. Tickets start at $69 at Ticketmaster.com.

x

Saturday

Theater

A wily producer has a creative plan to save a struggling theater company in Pompano Beach: Cast hot gay porn actors to perform the roles in the nude. Chaos quickly ensues as shocked patrons revolt. That’s the crazy plot of David Bell’s comedy “The Gay Naked Play,” running through Sept. 2 at the Foundry at the Abyss Theatre, 2308 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. Tickets start at $35 at RonnieLarsen.com.

Credit: Ronnie Larsen.

SAT

8/18

8/18 SUN

8/19 MON

8/20 TUE

8/21

Concert

Theater

Film

Nightlife

Taylor Swift brings her “Reputation” stadium tour to the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens tonight. We’d buy a ticket just to see opening act Camila Cabello (“Havana”) perform, but Swift is still hard to beat. The recordbreaking tour has been a hit with critics and fans, but we’re hoping the pop star will also sing her peppy 2014 bubble gum hit, “Shake It Off,” too.

Tickets start at $69 at Ticketmaster. com.

What do you get when you combine six effervescent actors, six seasoned directors and seven hilarious short plays about the LGBTQ experience?

The answer is “Shorts Gone Wild 6” at Island City Stage, 2304 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. This year’s edition explores the QIA part of the LGBTQIA alphabet soup with looks at the humor in the queer, intersex and allied experiences. Tickets $35 at IslandCityStage.org.

It’s Movie Monday. This week, catch up on some of the big releases of the past couple weeks: “McQueen,” the incredible documentary about the tragic life of fashion designer Alexander McQueen, or studio releases “Disney’s Christopher Robin,” “Crazy Rich Asians,” “The Spy Who Dumped Me,” “Jurassic World” and “Mission: Impossible – Fallout.”

Check local listings for theaters and show times.

When was the last time you checked out South Beach? Believe it or not, you can actually find parking on a weeknight, so head down to Miami Beach for food and fun. Twist, 1057 Washington Ave., is celebrating 25 years. Tonight, enjoy $5 Fireball shots at “Glowboy.” DJ Alex Infiniti will be in the booth and there’s never a cover, but always a groove at the popular club. For more information, go to TwistSoBe.com.

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A&E theater Director Ronnie Larsen, right, discusses script rewrites with actor Austin Minard.

Photo Credit: SFGN.

From Page to Stage: Director Puts Personal Touch on Comedy J.W. Arnold

W

hat’s a director to do when a play needs some work and the playwright is dead? This situation could easily serve as the premise for a slapstick comedy, but for local producer and director Ronnie Larsen, it became a real-life conundrum as he sought to mount his latest production, “The Gay Naked Play” by David Bell.

Even though the play received solid reviews during Off Broadway and London runs, Larsen felt the story should be localized after conducting a staged reading earlier this summer.

“It was missing something and I felt that with a few rewrites, we could make it even funnier,” explained Larsen, the writer of the Off Broadway hit “Making Porn” and more than 25 other LGBT-themed theatrical works.

Unfortunately, Larsen couldn’t turn to the playwright for help because Bell, a respected forty-something who called New York City home, passed away more than a year ago.

Larsen decided that he would make the changes himself.

It’s not unusual for directors to change or update references in someone else’s works.

Take William Shakespeare’s plays, for instance: He’s been dead for four centuries and, while few scholars would ever argue his masterpieces are flawed in any way, it’s not uncommon to see the settings changed or creative casting involved. “As You Like It” and “Much Ado About Nothing” have both been performed in the Roaring Twenties. One production of “Othello” featured the Moorish captain portrayed by a white actor marooned among a society of black actors. And British actress Glenda Jackson has tackled the male role of the tortured King Lear.

Unlike Shakespeare’s works, which are in the public domain and fully up for grabs, Bell’s original play was protected by modern copyright laws. Larsen sought out the writer’s surviving sister in Texas and she gave her blessing to the proposed changes, licensing

him the rights for three years to mount future productions.

Larsen immediately set to work and wound up contributing 40 pages of his own to the story about a struggling thespian troupe that reluctantly hires a wily producer to boost their box office by casting a porn star as the lead in their next show.

First, Larsen changed the name from “The Play About the Naked Guy” to “The Gay Naked Play.” Also, in his version, the Integrity Players present their artistic masterpieces in Pompano Beach. After a rowdy night at the Wilton Manors stripper bar Johnson’s, the company’s stage manager introduces the team to the producer whose biggest hit is “Naked Boys Running Around Naked,” a hat tip to the long-running show “Naked Boys Singing.”

There are references to the Carbonell Awards, the local version of the Tonys, and lots of namedropping, too, including searing reviews from Sun-Sentinel writer Rod Stafford Hagwood and Norm Kent of South Florida Gay News. In the play, Wilton Manors audiences are decidedly low-brow, in search of a cheap thrill, and even the frequent passenger trains that run behind the Foundry studio get a plug.

“I had so much fun working all those references into the show, but the best part is hearing the laughs,” he said. “We get to poke fun at Pembroke Pines, Boca Raton and, yes, even Wilton Manors. This could just be another show about putting on a play, but the jokes really hit home for the audience.”

Larsen, who has himself been dubbed “the Shakespeare of sleazy gay plays” by fans, also couldn’t resist the opportunity to insert some suggestive, backlit simulated sex scenes into the action. The lead character, he argues, is a porn star after all and audiences have come to expect a little naughty humor.

In any case, Larsen predicts a hit, something the Integrity Players of Pompano Beach might only imagine.

David Bell’s “The Gay Naked Play” runs through Sept. 2 at the Foundry at the Abyss Theatre, 2308 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. Tickets are $35 - 50 at RonnieLarsen.com.

“I LOVE TO SING BECAUSE THROUGH WORDS WE CAN TRANSFORM LIVES.” - Kewan Smith Join the Gay Mens Chorus of South Florida. Be part of a large ensemble of caring men who sing for social change and personal growth.

Come and experience the difference you can make!

AUDITIONS! AUGUST 25

FOR MORE INFO: www.gmcsf.org 8.15.2018 •

51

August 15 - August 21

Datebook

Theater Tucker Berardi

Calendar@SFGN.com

Top

broward county *La Cage Aux Folles

Picks

*Shorts Gone Wild 6

August 2 to 26 at Island City Stage, 2304 N. Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors. Season six of South Florida’s hottest LGBT-themed short play festival is here. Seven short plays by six fabulous playwrights, five directors and five actors create a provocative, funny and fabulous production. Tickets $35.

Visit islandcitystage.org.

*Free Play Reading — ‘A Life Worth Saving’

August 31 to September 23 at the Stage Door Theater, 3800 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill. and drag show owner Georges is presented with the challenge of acting the part when meeting his son’s finances ultra-conservative parents.

When he fails to take on the role of masculine uncle, he takes more creative measures to meet the family. Tickets $48. Visit LPACFL.com or call 954-777-2055.

Aunt Jack

July 19 to August 12 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Dr., Fort Lauderdale. This part comedy, part coming of age story follows a multigenerational family of prominent gays as they learn about love, acceptance, identity and sexuality. Tickets $35. Call 954-678-1496.

Shorts Gone Wild 6 via Facebook

standards, contemporary jazz and world beat flavors. Tickets $25 to $35. Visit artsgarage.org or call 561-450-6357.

month we are featuring live music by Indigo Dreamers & Carolena. Free to attend. Visit artsgarage.org or call 561-450-6357.

Free Friday Concerts

August 17 and 18 at 8 p.m. at Main Street Players, 6766 Main Street, Miami Lakes.

Based on his experiences as a MiamiDade Public Defender, A Life Worth Saving is based on an actual case from the 1980s in which a defendant was charged with “homicide by heart attack.” Visit mainstreetplayers.com or call 305-5583737.

Friday Night Sound Waves Music Series

*All Arts Open Mic Night

Fridays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Hub, Las Olas Boulevard and A1A in Fort Lauderdale.

Enjoy live, outdoor music spanning genres and tributes every Friday evening through November. Free. Visit FridayNightSoundWaves. com

Tuesday, August 14 at 8 p.m. at the Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach.

Are you an inspiring artist, writer, or musician who is itching for a spot in the limelight? Well now is your chance to shine! Arts Garage presents our ALL ARTS OPEN MIC NIGHT. Tickets $5.

Visit artsgarage.org or call 561-450-6357.

Five Women Same Dress

palm beach county

*Art Meets Music

Wearing

the

July 20 to August 12 at Main Street Players, 6766 Main Street, Miami Lakes.

An irreverent and funny look at the intricacies of friendship and the power of similar dressing. Tickets available at MainStreetPlayers.com

*Julius Sanna Quartet

Saturday, August 11 at 8 p.m. at the Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. Enjoy this salad blend of musical stylings including jazz

Thursday, August 16 at 7 p.m. at the Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach.

The 3rd Thursday of every month Arts Garage hosts a FREE art walk & concert featuring local artists and bands. This

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

Enjoy live music from the comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn chair every week, for free! Returns in October. Call 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts.org.

miami-dade county *Peter Pan Jr.

August 10 and 11 at 5:30 p.m. at the Art and Culture Center, 1770 Monroe St, Hollywood.

Join Peter, Captain Hook, Tinker Bell, Tiger Lily, and our talented cast of fairies, mermaids, lost boys, pirates and Indians as we journey to a land where dreams are born and you never have to grow up! Tickets $10 for adults and $8 for children under 12. Visit artandculturecenter. org

Outdoor Music Series

Third Thursdays at the Perez Art Museum Miami, 101 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Come out for live music from DJs and musicians by the bay. Drink specials available. Free with museum admission. Call 305-375-3000 or visit PAMM.org.

Full Charge Bookkeeping Services

The Big Show

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

* Denotes New Listing 52

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8 .15.2018

community announcement

Gay Softball League Recruiting Day on Sunday

L A M A R F I S H E R LO G O O P T I O N S - PAG E 2

1

Stonewall Pride Festival

LAMAR FISHER

BROWARD Honoring FOR COUNTY All COMMISSION 4 Led theDISTRICT Fight

Those Who for Equality.

Tim Martin

SFAAA Chairman

for six days later on Saturday, Aug. 25, at Mickel Park in Wilton Manors. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. with ratings starting at 9:30 a.m.

Both locales are off Powerline Road, just south of Oakland Park Blvd.

Opening Day is on Sunday, Sept. 16. The 14-game fall season competes on Sundays, rotating between morning and afternoon starts. All game days end at a local sponsor bar for the afterparty.

The fall season concludes with the 24th annual Hurricane Showdown tournament over Thanksgiving weekend.

For more information, visit our website www.sfaaasoftball.com, our Facebook page SFAAA, or send a Facebook private message to either Chairman Tim Martin or Commissioner Ed Vincent.

Come out and play with us.

“ Our commitment 2

Lamar Fisher

to equality and respecting diversity isn’t measured by what we say – FOR BROWARD COUNTY COMMISSION • DISTRICT 4 it’s measured by what we do.

“

A

fter a short summer break, the gay softball league is starting to gear up to conclude its 24th year as the fall season looms.

The South Florida Amateur Athletic Association is planning on two Recruiting Days to give new or former players an opportunity to be evaluated and placed on a local team.

Last spring, the SFAAA boasted 28 teams and more than 400 players. All who register will be placed on a team, male or female, and no matter if you are a beginner or a twodecade veteran.

The first Recruiting Day will be held at Fort Lauderdale’s Mills Pond Park, our home field, on Sunday, Aug. 19. Registration opens at 9 a.m., with the ratings session starting at 10 a.m.

A second Recruitment Day is scheduled

3

LAMAR

FISHER

FOR BROWARD COUNTY COMMISSION • DISTRICT 4

www.FisherforDistrict4.com

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Lamar Fisher, Democrat, for Broward County Commissioner District 4

8.15.2018 •

53

Datebook

Community

August 15 - August 21

Tucker Berardi Calendar@SFGN.com

Top Picks

Broward Support Services PFLAG

*Art Meets Music

Thursday, August 16 at 7 p.m. at the Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. The 3rd Thursday of every month Arts Garage hosts a FREE art walk & concert featuring local artists and bands. This month we are featuring live music by Indigo Dreamers & Carolena. Free to attend. Visit artsgarage. org or call 561-450-6357.

The Colors of This Life Art Gallery

August 11 to September 7 at the Claudia Castillo Art Studio, 2215 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors.

A photographic installment showcasing color as experienced in dreams. Opening reception Saturday, August 18 at 6 p.m. Visit claudiacastillaARTstudio.com

Arts and Crafts Wednesday Happy Hour

Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Arts and Crafts Social Club in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy a two-for-one ‘freestyle’ painting session with hands on assistance as needed. Tickets $20. Visit artsandcraftssocialclub.com

Tuesdays in Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs and Southwest Ranches.

A support group for parents of LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and locations.

SunServe Youth Group

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

Survivor Support

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

broward county Care Resource Recovery Group

Mondays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Care Resource, 3160 NW Ninth St. in Oakland Park. A weekly meeting with licensed behavioral clinical counselors on healing one’s entire being in the recovery process. Visit CareResource.org.

Rest Your Mind

Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at Kadampa Meditation Center, 241 W Prospect Road Ste. B in Fort Lauderdale. Start your week with relaxing meditation to center yourself. Free. Visit MeditateinFortLauderdale.org.

Man2Man Discussion

Mondays 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors.

A weekly informal discussion group among gay men of all backgrounds. Contact Lewis Shena at klezmerman2@gmail.com.

Toastmasters

Mondays 7 to 9 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040

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N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Learn the art of public speaking with positive reinforcement and encouragement from your peers. Call Ted Verdone at 954-5662074 or email tedverdone@comcast.net.

Proud Speakers

Mondays from 7:15 to 9 p.m. at The Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Join the Toastmasters to work on your communication and leadership skills.

Call 954-900-4075, email tedverdone@ gmail.com, or visit Facebook.com/ proudspeakers2266.

Transgender Meeting

Advisory

Group

First Mondays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at various locations. The Florida Department of Health in Broward County meeting of the Transgender Advisory Group which is part of the Broward County HIV Prevention Planning Council. Call 954-467-4700, ext. 4991 or visit browardgreaterthan.org/

August 15 - August 21 broward-county-hiv-prevention-planningcouncil-bchppc/

Come On, Get Happy!

Third Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at SunServe, 2312 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. A discussion group designed around the mindbody connection and emotional balance. Free. Call Katy Yankie at 954-764-5150 ext. 105 or visit sunserve.org.

Food Truck Invasion

Tuesdays from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Plantation Heritage Park, 1100 S. Fig Tree Lane in Plantation. The whole family is invited to the park for dinner with the food trucks and live music. Visit FoodTruckInvasion.com

palm beach county Brain Sparks — Neuroscientists

Meet

FAU

August 4 & 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the STEM Studio, 1209 Main St. #112, Jupiter.

Learn about neuroscience and brains from FAU neuroscientists. Register at sfsciencecenter.org/brainsparks

Sober Sisters

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

Out of the Closet NA Group

Mondays at 7 p.m. at Lambda North, 18 S. J St. in Lake Worth. A support and discussion group for LGBT recovering addicts. Visit LambdaNorth.net.

Positive Connection

Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Men who are HIV positive are invited to come together for support, education, and advocacy.

Closed group. Call 561-324-1626 or visit CompassGLCC.com.

miami-dade county Arsht Center Farmers Market

Mondays from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Purchase fresh food from local farmers, including fruits, vegetables, meats, prepared foods, as well as chefs, live music, and cooking demonstrations. Tickets $45 to $75. Free.

Visit ArshtCenter.org/en/Visit/Dining.

POZCONNECT Support Group for Spanish Speakers

Mondays 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Pridelines, 6360 NE Fourth Court in Miami. A support group for HIV+ people, in Spanish. Free. Call Eddie at 305-571-9601, ext. 105 or visit Pridelines. org.

Yoga

Tuesdays from 6 to 7:15 p.m. at Jose Marti Park, 362 SW Fourth Ave. in Miami. Yogis 18 and older of all levels are invited to a practice led by a certified instructor. Bring your own yoga mat, water, and towel. Free. Call 305358-7550 or visit BayfrontParkMiami.com/ Yoga.html.

POZCONNECT Support Group for Gay and Bi Men

Tuesdays from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Pridelines, 6360 NE Fourth Court in Miami. A gay and bi men’s roundtable HIV+ support group. Free.

Call Eddie at 305-571-9601, ext. 105 or visit Pridelines.org.

*Taco Brunch and All Day Happy Hour

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

Comedy Key West

Thursday and Friday at 8:30 pm at the Bottlecap’s Blue Room, 1128 Simonton Street, Key West. Come enjoy drinks and jokes at the weekly comedy nights! Local talent sure to get you laughing is showcased each week. Tickets $15 at the door. Visit comedykeywest.com

Aqua Idol

Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Aqua Key West, 711 Duval St. in Key West. Support your local artists and vote for your favorite!

Benefits Waterfront Playhouse. Call 305294-0555 or visit AquaKeyWest.com.

key west * Denotes New Listing

ALL-INCLUSIVE... AS NEWS

SHOULD BE AS DIVERSE AS EVER Whether you are in the bisexual or transgender communities, are asexual, gender-fluid, pansexual, or maybe you still aren’t sure, SFGN is proudly here to connect you with the rest of our colorful community.

www.SFGN.com 8.15.2018 •

55

THE

GUIDE

Business Directory

attorney

attorney

Law office of george castrataro 707 NE 3rd Ave #300, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 954.573.1444 Lawgc.com

law office of Gregory Kabel 1 East Broward Blvd #700, Fort Lauderdale, 33301 954.761.7770 gwkesq@bellsouth.net

Law office of Robin bodiford 2550 N Federal Hwy #20, Fort Lauderdale, FL 954.630.2707 Lawrobin.com

law office of Shawn Newman 710 NE 26th St, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.563.9160 Shawnnewman.com

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

Trantalis & Associates attorneys Dean J. Trantalis, Esq. 2301 Wilton Drive Suite C1-A, Wilton Manors, 33035 954.566.2226 TrantalisLaw.com

a&e

Ft Lauderdale Gay Men's Chorus PO Box 9772, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33310-9772 954-832-0060 www.theftlgmc.org Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida 2040 North Dixie Hwy, #218, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-763-2266 Gaymenschorusofsouthflorida.org

a/c repair

mortgage lender

Licensed & Insured

954-725-3633

custom alarm contractors, Inc.

Est. 1989 “Experience Matters” Service after the sale! ▶ residential security ▶ commercial security ▶ closed circuit tV www.customalarmcontractors.com 56

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8 .15.2018

Every homeowner who is at least 62 years of age should know about Reverse Mortgage loans! ~ Purchase & Refinance ~

Call Today: Crissy

Your Hometown Specialist Phone: 954-290-1243 kcrissy@firstbankonline.com NMLS# 447937 Borrowers must pay taxes and required insurance. Must meet underwriting requirements. FirstBank Institution ID 472433.

www.sfgn.guide chiropractic

final arrangements

professional services

Kalis-McIntee Funeral & Cremation Center

2505 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-566-7621 Kalismcintee.com

sfgn.guide handyman

PET GROOMING PET SITTING & TRAINING SERVICES

Miami/Broward/Palm Beach Paint/Caulk/Remove Grout/Yard Work Fix Drips & Switches/Debris removal Assembles Furniture & Appliances Repair or Fix Call "Avrom" Keith 786-227-9981

4390 Northlake Blvd.

Palm Beach Gardens FL 33410 www.K9SPA.us Voice: 561-622-5678 Text: 561-352-7808

getaway

Richard C. Petryk

dental Oakland Park Dental 3047 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306 954.566.9812 Oaklandparkdental.com

Attorney at Law Courthouse Square Building 200 Southeast Sixth Street, Suite 306 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 RichardCPetryk@Yahoo.com

furniture

We Handle Traffic Tickets professional services

Taylor & Turner Pest and Termite Control, Inc

William D. Turner

call us to reserve space! financial services

taylorandturner@yahoo.com 2520 North Dixie Hwy Wilton Manors, FL 33305

Telephone: (954) 763-3120 health insurance Medicare/MedicaID Florida Blue / Blue Cross Blue Shield 2765 West Cypress Creek Road Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309 Call Steve Herbstman @ 954-554-7074

health American Pain Experts 6333 N. Federal Hwy, Ste. 250, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 954-678-1074 Americanpainexperts.com

post your listing online! www.sfgn.guide fish & seafood market

954.630.2627

WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR

FINANCIAL NEEDS Taxes IRS Issues Accounting

Bookkeeping Small Business Advising

954-667-9829 ACCOUNTING@STERLINGACCOUNTING.COM

2435 North Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 8.15.2018 •

57

THE

GUIDE Business Directory

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

real estate Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors & Oakland Park REMODELED homes:

2 bedroom/2 bath condos

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sports Tennis Lessons at Hagen Park in Wilton Manors. Individual or group lessons. Call Robert 732-604-0362 for more information.

www.sfgn.guide

social

transportation RAINBOW RIDES-SAVE MONEY ON YOUR RIDE! - We treat you like family! SPECIALIZING IN AIRPORT RIDES! Need a ride to FLL, MIA, or PBI? (or anywhere else?) I'm a friendly driver with a nice, clean Chevy Malibu. My fixed-rate pricing beat all ride sharing - apps every time. Call or text me to schedule a ride, I'll be there early and I'll text you when I arrive. No 'surge" prices, no hassles. Call or text Nikki at 954-600-3133.

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8 .15.2018

Helping Buyers, Sellers, Renters, and Investors for over 18 years in South Florida.

$250,000

Brian S. Bedigian, P.A.

RealtorBrian@aol.com www.BrianFTL.com

Your South Florida Specialist for Over 18 Years

from

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Realtor

954.205.5275

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help wanted dog runner sought (with references) - Victoria Park, Fort Lauderdale. Call Norm 954-661-3361

oakland park real estate sales

OAKLAND PARK 6PLEX - Great Opportunity Listed at $550,000. Michael Tublin United Realty 561 703 5533

attorney

home health care

Injury or illness? - Unable to work due to injury or illness? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys! FREE Evaluation. Local Attorneys Nationwide 1-855-643-2430 [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]

COMPANION AIDE - Strictly Professional, TBI, PCA, and NHTD certified Over ten years’ experience. Provide light personal care, light cleaning. Laundry and major meal prep. Respite for caregiver. Serious inquires call Karl 954-616-8952

automotive HEADLIGHT RESTORATION - Headlights dull, cloudy or yellow? We make them clear again!

Mobile Service. Call Joe for FREE ESTIMATE 954-494-0366

electrician

SPECIAL HIRE NEEDED - Earn $45,000 per year.

Experienced, self-motivated professional salesman needed. Work competitively in a highly flexible and relaxed LGBT-friendly environment.

Fax resume to 954-530-7943.

employment positions wanted Male-Caregiver - 10+ Experience, Certified in State of Florida. Call Antonio 954.599.3265

seeking employment WPB Personal Chef / House Man - Chef Daniel, prof with neat personality 25 years experience; Looking for full time job Cooking, food shopping, house maintenance, running errands, etc. CV avail on demand, adanielg26@aol.com

handyman

HUSBAND FOR RENT - Is he procrastinating home repairs? He says he will do it tomorrow?? After the football game?? We fit right in - in the house or the yard, small or big jobs: tile, dry wall, paint, plumbing, roof leaks, broken furniture, irrigation, fences, and more! It doesn't cost to hassle us to see the work - so why wait?

Neat, clean work for a reasonable price. Call Haim at 954-398-3676, sidnalll@yahoo.com

men’s health/fitness Penis Enlargement - Gain 1 to 3 inches permanently & safely. Resolve ED. Licensed medical vacuum pumps, surgical & supplements. For free brochures/consultation call: Dr. Joel Kaplan 888-978HUGE (4843). www.getbiggernow.com

CREEP OF THE YEAR

855-407-8729

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internet AT&T - High Speed Internet Starting at $40/month. Up to 45 Mbps! Over 99% Reliability! Bundle AT&T Digital TV or Phone Services & Internet Price Starts at $30/month. Call 1-855-830-9658

office space

ALL INCLUSIVE OFFICE - 2201 Wilton Drive address and mailbox, parking space, shared conference room, high speed internet, furnished. Monthly or Annual Lease available.

Text 954.801.5850.

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954.530.4970 piano WANT TO LEARN HOW TO PLAY THE PIANO? Learn from an experienced teacher. All levels and ages welcome. Learn to play classical, popular, jazz, or show tunes. Visit www.edwinchad.com or call 954-826-9555 for more information.

pool service

DIRECTV SELECT PACKAGE! - Over 150 Channels, ONLY $35/month (for 12 mos.) Order Now! Get a $200 AT&T Visa Rewards Gift Card (some restrictions apply) CALL 1- 888-597-7205

rentals fort lauderdale

Victoria Park 1BR/1BA - Renovated, Terrazo Floors, 2 A/C Units, New Kitchen Appliances, Large Walk-in Closet, Shared Washer & Dryer, Safe Area, 5 Unit Building. $1100 per month, Call 305-608-5877

senior roommate wanted Roommate - Elderly gay man seeks trustworthy, serious minded roommate. Two bedroom home located in Boca Raton. Must have car, extremely low rent. Ages 65+ preferred. Contact Gary – 561-451-0205

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954.530.4970

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painting

GREGG'S PAINTING - I paint both interior and exterior.

Great rates, free estimates. I am detailed-oriented, friendly, reliable, punctual, and neat. No job too small. Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Call Gregg at 617-306-5694 or 954870-5972 Email: gmanbenn44@gmail.com RENTAL - 2B2B chalet in the mountains of Western NC, 45 min from Asheville. Elegant, with panoramic views and privacy. Escape the heat and traffic. Make new friends and see new places. 3 day (min) $400, Weekly $900. 49 Pinnacle Rd, Burnsville, NC 28714. Contact Red – 954496-9000, redroosterchalet@gmail.com

Classified Advertising Works! paid for by anonymous

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

Call 954-235-0775.

vacation rental

creep of the week

television

7:0 0P M

employment wanted

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W ED N ES D AY S

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

954.530.4970

MANNY SIMONE, NEWS ANCHOR

8.15.2018 •

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