9/14/16 V7i37

local name global coverage September 14, 2016 vol. 7 // issue 37

s o u t h

f l o r i d a

g a y

n e w s

CASE CLOSED

Page 10

14 years later, justice for Richard Busey what we can learn from minority religions Pages 22, 23

SouthFloridaGayNews

Fifteen years later Page 28

soflagaynews

SFGN.com

The Opening Line Photos: Facebook, Twitter.

Comments from SFGN’s

online outlets

Compiled by John McDonald

PrEP STUDY FINDS HIGH RATE OF STI INFECTIONS IN MEN Steve Johnson –

Yet one more study that is a complete waste of time and money. OF COURSE those doing PrEP have higher rates of STDs – since these are folks who have higher frequencies of sex, overall. A no-brainer that doesn’t require any studies. A more useful study would be these same folks’ STD rates BEFORE and AFTER starting on PrEP. And if it is substantially higher afterwards, so be it. Prevention of the spread of HIV is the point.

Survivorfan @TheRealTJM1979 –

I’m shocked...you mean letting guys cum inside you can give you something other than HIV?

PAM BONDI ACCUSES HILLARY CLINTON OF BULLYING HER

Joseph C @BearyJoseph –

Of course, Truvada ONLY prevents HIV infections, almost all gay men bareback on PrEP so more STI’s happen.

David Torgenson –

SouthFloridaGayNews.com

September 14, 2016 • Volume 7 • Issue 37 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943

Publisher • Norm Kent norm.kent@sfgn.com

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Senior Features Correspondents

Jesse Monteagudo • Tony Adams

Correspondents

Just send $25,000 to Bondi’s campaign and she will shut up.

PETITION STARTED TO RENAME USS MILK AFTER SLAIN GORILLA

Joanie Bigham –

Dori Zinn • Andrea Richard • Donald Cavanaugh Christiana Lilly • Denise Royal • Sean McShee Alex Adams • Gary Kramer • David-Elijah Nahmod

Contributing Columnists

Brian McNaught • Dana Rudolph • Wayne Besen Ric Reily • Steve Siler • Bil Browning Tucker Berrardi • Terri Schlichenmeyer

Associate Photographers

Bondi just held up Marriage Equality in Florida for 2 years longer than it needed to. She has been buddies with Rick Scott , aka Mr. Plead the 5th 77 times in the largest Medicad fraud case in USA history. She and Trump deserve each other, she’s looking, like Scott, for a job on the hate train.

Bob Williams –

I don’t think so. Harambe never was elected to public office.

Chuck Baum –

Don Sadler –

Let’s re-name one of the 1000s of things named for Ronald Reagan for the gorilla.

MEMBER

Leave it to Pam to get it wrong! Not bullying, just exposing your corruption.

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Director of Sales & Marketing • Mike Trottier mike.trottier@sfgn.com Sales Manager • Justin Wyse justin.wyse@sfgn.com Advertising Sales Associate • Edwin Neimann edwin.neimann@sfgn.com Sales Assistant / Classifieds • Tim Higgins Tim.Higgins@sfgn.com Distribution Services • Brian Swinford National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping

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I won’t sign it. Harvey Milk deserves to be honored with his name on a ship, and if I have my say, they can’t rename it!

It would be a bully like Pam saying something like that.

Sorry for your crocodile tears sweetie.

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ayNew s.com

GUIDE TO THE DRIVE 1

Cover:

MEMBER

Richard Busey (left), the victim of a murder fourteen years ago, allegedly at the hands of Joshua Odom (right; photo credit BSO).

South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations.

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

Copyright © 2016 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

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Time To VotE!

SFGN’s Best Of Finalists Have Been Chosen Staff Report SFGN’s annual Best Of contest is back in full swing taking votes online right now in dozens of categories. Last month you chose the finalists. Now it’s time to vote for the winners. Visit SFGN.com/ BestOf2016 and make your voice heard in the community.

The Voting ends September 31.

Winners will be announced in November.

Below are some of the categories: Best Restaurant; Best Pizza; Best Burger; Best Take Out; Best Dessert; Best Restaurant to Take a Date; Best Place to Pick up Guys/Girls; Best Drag Show; Best Drag Queen; Best Bar; Best Nightclub; Best Coffee Shop; Best Guest House; Best Happy Hour; Best Business Group; Best Place to Workout; Best City to Live; Best Theater; Best Beach; Best Place to Shop; Best Non-Profit; and Best LGBT Event of the Year.

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New Times Article Spotlights Gay Discrimination Allegations in WMPD Michael d’Oliveira

A

Broward New Times article details allegations of an atmosphere of homophobic language – the liberal use of “homo” and “faggot” – and behavior at the Wilton Manors Police Department.

It’s an atmosphere that supposedly led to the resignation of four openly-gay officers in the last three years, with accusations of gay officers being intimidated, singled-out and passed-up for promotion.

But a BSO investigation that concluded in 2014, consisting of 20 interviews, found no evidence of mistreatment in violation of department policy.

Dio Sanchez, Human Resources manager, also stated that none of the officers brought any of the alleged offenses to his department’s attention. “None [of the four gay officers who resigned] state discrimination during their time of employment, nor did any of the four file discrimination complaints with HR during the course of their employment.”

Michael Della Volpe claimed the abuse got worse once three officers were hired in a short period of time in 2013. “So many gay officers were coming in all of a sudden.

It was like they feared a takeover or that we’d ruin their good-ol’-boy image.”

The investigation was recommended

by Police Chief Paul O’Connell after his meeting with Jeffrey Fetter. Fetter went to the chief after he claims that he and two other gay officers “noticed they were being disciplined more harshly than their straight colleagues. The three of them would regularly meet outside Fetter’s

apartment and swap stories.”

But Della Volpe said the probe was flawed and he wasn’t interviewed. “I feel like they knew I was going to say something.

That’s when I knew [the investigation] was hopeless.” In a resignation letter, he wrote, “I addressed these issues through the ‘Chain of Command’ and have had no success . . . I hope my departure will create changes that make for a more professional environment for ALL employees.”

Jason Bell told a BSO investigator he believed he had been passed up for promotions in favor of less qualified straight officers.

But not all the department’s gay officers allege an atmosphere of discrimination. “[I am treated] amazing. I was a closeted law enforcement officer in Jersey, and the reason I moved down here was because of the lifestyle,” said Sgt. Frank Pilewski. He said he was never harassed and was even sent a sympathy card when his partner died.

In an email to city commissioners and the mayor, the majority of which are members of the LGBT community, asking if the New Times article raised any questions or would result in the commission investigating the matter further, only Commissioner Julie Carson responded. “The matter was fully investigated and concluded a while ago without findings to substantiate the allegations.”

O’Connell was also contacted but did not reply.

To read the article, visit http://bit.ly/2cHZ9Q4 4

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9 . 14.2016

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Photo courtesy Manfred Wegscheider.

North Carolina GOP to NCAA: “This is so absurd it’s almost comical” Brittany Ferrendi

T

he NCAA plans to pull their 2016-2017 championships out of North Carolina because of the state’s anti-LGBT position – and the GOP isn’t happy.

“The NCAA Constitution clearly states our values of inclusion and gender equity,” said Susquehanna University President Jay Lemons, vice chairman of the NCAA Board of Governors, CNN reports. “Our membership comprises many different types of schools ... and we believe this action appropriately reflects the collective will of that diverse group.”

According to The National Collegiate Athletic Association, any city that hosts an NCAA event must be “safe, healthy, and free of discrimination.” North Carolina requires by law that transgender people use bathrooms according to their birth certificate, and put blocks on a number of LGBT antidiscrimination legislation.

The decision even gained support by Presidential Nominee Hillary Clinton, who tweeted: “The @NCAA is right to pull tournament

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games from North Carolina because of the anti-LGBT HB2 law. Discrimination has no place in America. -H” In response, NCGOP’s Spokeswoman Kami Mueller released a statement calling the NCAA decision “so absurd it’s almost comical.”

“I genuinely look forward to the NCAA merging all men’s and women’s teams together as singular, unified, unisex teams,” the statement reads, comparing transgender bathroom rights to a unification of men and women’s teams. “Under the NCAA’s logic, colleges should make cheerleaders and football players share bathrooms, showers, and hotel rooms. This decision is an assault to female athletes across the nation. If you are unwilling to have women’s bathrooms and locker rooms, how do you have a women’s team?”

The letter concludes: “I wish the NCAA were this concerned about the women who were raped at Baylor. Perhaps the NCAA should stop with their political peacocking – and instead focus their energies on making sure our nation’s collegiate athletes are safe, both on and off the field.”

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9 . 14.2016

Fort Lauderdale Franciscans Looking For New Home John McDonald

T

he Franciscans are on the move again.

At the conclusion of Saturday evening’s mass at the Parish of Saints Francis & Clare, Father Joe delivered challenging news to the faithful.

“We are asking God to lead us to a new home,” said Father Joe. Explaining that the building in downtown Fort Lauderdale (101 N.E. 3rd Street) that the parish has called home since 2009 has been sold, Father Joe asked for suggestions from churchgoers. The parish has 10 months to find a new church and is seeking to raise $300,000 for the purchase.

“We want to stay in the Fort LauderdaleOakland Park area, east of (Interstate) 95, north of Broward (Blvd.) and south of Commercial (Blvd.),” Father Joe said.

The parish is part of the Ecumenical Catholic Church, a more socially liberal order not under the jurisdiction of the Vatican or Roman Catholic Church. Father Joe and his brothers are friars and they wear special habits to identify their order.

“Collars turn people off,” Father Joe said.

“This,” he says of his brown colored habit complete with hood and rope styled belts, “this talks to people.”

At the Parish of Saints Francis & Clare, the friars spread the message of the love of God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost. Masses on Saturday evening and Sunday morning offer communion of bread and wine, symbolizing the body and blood of Christ, who is said to have laid down his life for all.

“So that sins may be forgiven,” Father Joe said.

Along with mass, the friars work diligently to be visible and active in the community. From blessings of animals at Marlins Park in Miami to hospital visitations in Pembroke Pines, the friars go where they are called and needed.

“Wherever we are we allow the presence of God to be with us,” Father Joe said.

Father Joe moved to South Florida in 1989 from New York. He was raised in Brooklyn and taught in the Catholic schools there. He started the Franciscans of Fort Lauderdale in 1995 and describes the parish as an “open and affirming community.”

On a Thursday afternoon, Marilyn Francis was found vacuuming inside the church’s sanctuary. A lay representative, Marilyn agreed to an interview with SFGN about her role in the parish.

“It’s a very inviting and welcoming place,” she said. “I feel like I am participating in a spiritual community again. I feel very connected to the brothers and I feel like Jesus is present here.”

Marilyn said she identifies as a straight woman. Father Joe said the current congregation is 60 percent straight and 40 percent gay. He has blessed both opposite-sex and same-sex weddings, but said he could not follow the Roman Catholic Church’s direction on marriage because, “I’d be a hypocrite.”

The parish is named in honor of Francis of Assisi, a saint from the 13th century who gave up a life of luxury to live in poverty and bore the stigmata. Likewise, Clare, his devoted companion, was inspired by Francis’ message and established the Order of Poor Ladies.

IF YOU GO: What: The Parish of Saints Francis & Clare Where: 101 N.E. 3rd Street, Fort Lauderdale, 33301 When: Masses: Saturdays at 5 p.m., Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

More Info: 954-731-8173 or www.stsfrancisandclare.org

9.14.2016 •

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NEWS national

Photo: Facebook.

NEWS local

Photo: Facebook

Geeks Rejoice!

ANIMATE! Florida comes to Fort Lauderdale this weekend Brittany Ferrendi

Bondi Accuses Clinton of Bullying Her

John McDonald

O

n Wednesday Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi accused presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton of “bullying” her. Apparently she didn’t like it when Clinton questioned her ties to presidential hopeful Donald Trump in unfolding pay-to-play controversy engulfing the two Republicans.

“Of course, as we know, there was a phone conversation between them. They contradict each other,” Clinton said aboard her plane. “The American people deserve to know what was said, because clearly the attorney general did not proceed with the investigation.”

Bondi took offense.

“I will not be collateral damage in a presidential campaign, nor will I be a woman bullied by Hillary Clinton,” the Florida attorney general said. “Hillary Clinton will not bully me.”

Ken Evans, State Committeeman for the Broward Democratic Party, who has worked on LGBT outreach on behalf of the Clinton campaign in Florida, said Bondi’s attempt to play the victim is “deceitful.”

Questions concerning Bondi’s role in Trump University are popping up at every corner of the Sunshine State. At the forefront is a $25,000 contribution Donald

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Trump gave to a pro-Bondi political action committee. The contribution came, Bondi says, shortly after her office concluded an investigation into Trump University.

“All you have to do is connect the dots,” Evans said. “It is very, very obvious. She took donations from him to make it go away.”

“It” in this case are complaints against Trump University, a now defunct for-profit education company. Lawsuits from people who felt defrauded by Trump University were filed in California, Florida and New York.

During the Republican primary debates, U.S. Senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz brought up the issue. Rubio even said he spoke with an individual suing Trump.

“There are people who borrowed $36,000 to go to Trump University and they are suing him now,” Rubio said during a Republican debate aired on CNN. “Thirty-six thousand dollars to go to a university that’s a fake school. And you know what they got? They got to take a picture with a cardboard cutout of Donald Trump. That’s what they got for $36,000.”

Bondi’s decision to drop an investigation into Trump University on the heels of a donation from the New York businessman now reeks of pay for play, said Evans.

A

re you a geek at heart? We’ve got the perfect place for you this weekend.

ANIMATE! Florida — the Fort Lauderdale anime, cosplay and animation convention — is returning from Sept. 16-18 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention Center on 1950 Eisenhower Boulevard.

Looking for celebrity guests? ANIMATE! presents Lauren Landa, the voice for Sailor Neptune from Sailor Moon, Annie Leonhardt from Attack on Titan and more. Also appearing is Matthew Mercer, the voice actor from a number of games and animes including Overwatch and Kill la Kill.

Autograph sessions and spotlight Q&As are available throughout each day.

ANIMATE! will also have its own video game room with tournaments and lessons through

the weekend. Fight off in Rocket League, or learn the basics of League of Legends.

Panels come in all shapes and sizes, including a discussion on gender and sexuality in science fiction.

Cupcake Burlesque will also host an Animation Sinsations! burlesque show for people age 18 and older.

And while you’re at the convention, don’t forget to check out Saturday night’s rave at 11:45 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased for individual days or all together. All three days can be purchased for $70. Weekend tickets are available for $60.

Friday and Sunday can be purchased separately for $35, and Saturday is available for $40.

Children under four years old are free with a paid parent or guardian.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit ANIMATEFlorida.com or call 954-399-1330.

news local

Seminole Sheriff’s Office.

Judge sends man accused of Pulse-related threat back to South Florida Susan Jacobson Sun Sentinel

A

man accused of making online threats that referred to the Pulse nightclub shooting will be transferred to South Florida to face federal charges, a judge in Orlando ruled Monday.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Gregory J. Kelly ordered Craig Allen Jungwirth, 50, to remain in custody and be transferred to the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court in the Southern District of Florida in Fort Lauderdale.

Kelly also ruled there was probable cause that Jungwirth illegally threatened to injure others via interstate commerce communication.

In court documents, the FBI accuses Jungwirth of posting on Aug. 30 on Facebook slurs against the gay community in Wilton Manors, a small city in Broward County.

The posts threatened to kill gay people and said, “None of you deserve to live” and, “If you losers thought the Pulse nightclub shooting was bad, wait till you see what I’m

planning for Labor Day.” Forty-nine people were killed and more than 50 were hurt in the shooting at the Orlando club. It was the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history.

The Florida Highway Patrol arrested Jungwirth two days before the holiday in Osceola County on a charge of driving on a suspended license. He was jailed in Seminole County and turned over to federal custody Thursday, the Sheriff’s Office said.

Jungwirth had been living with his mother in southwest Orange County. On Sept. 2, the FBI subpoenaed records that showed the threatening posts were made from an Internet account registered to her address.

Jungwirth previously lived in Wilton Manors, court documents state.

news national

Elite vs. Grass-Root Conflict Emerges at AIDS 2016 Sean McShee

T

he 21st International AIDS Conference occurred in Durban, South Africa from July 18 through July 22. It had the theme “Access Equity Rights Now.” Out of all the conference papers, African scientists wrote about a third and women the majority. More than 15,000 people from 153 countries attended the face-to-face conference.

The virtual conference tweeted 144,000 times. While about 34,000 people visited the conference’s website, its Facebook posts reached 726,268 people.

This every-other-year conference not only functions as a major scientific exchange. It also functions as a global “meet-up” for the HIV communities. Scientists, advocates, activists, and people living with AIDS or HIV (PLWAH) network at this event. Its location ensured that large numbers of PLWAH from Africa could attend.

Conflicting views and priorities emerged at this conference. While elites talk about ending AIDS by 2030, PLWAH lack access to HIV testing, prevention and treatment. Every year about 1 million people die from AIDS, a treatable disease.

Globally, about 36.9 million people live with HIV or AIDS. More people, 19 million, are unaware of their HIV positive status, than have access to treatment, 15 million. Millions more at risk of HIV infection in resource-poor countries need access to PrEP, but global funding has begun to shrink.

On July 18, PLWAH, activists, and scientists marched through Durban to dramatize this conflict.

This march demanded the following: Provide full HIV treatment for all PLWAH; Create and maintain fully staffed and functional public healthcare systems; Remove patents from medicines and put medicines in the public domain; End discrimination and criminalization of key groups; and Increase funding for the global AIDS response.

The key groups in demand include gay men, sex workers, transgender women, injection drug users, migrants, and prisoners. Many sessions at the conference linked controlling HIV with

decriminalizing these key groups.

The conference frequently reflected concerns similar to those of the march. Sessions described a new conception of human rights emerging from the response to HIV. This conception included a right to health care, rejected criminalization of key groups, and rejected HIV criminalization.

While these criminalizing laws reflect cultural norms, they reinforce stigmas. Those stigmas form major barriers to testing and treatment, furthering the epidemic. The HIV epidemic has tragically shortened millions of lives, but the global response to HIV may redefine human rights.

Large numbers of PWLAH live in resourcepoor countries, relying on donor funding. While increased access to treatment requires more money, international donors decreased their contributions in 2015. Michael Sidibé of UNAIDS said, “I’m scared because we’re seeing – for the first time in five years- a reduction in donor government funding for HIV.” International donor funding declined from $8.6 billion in 2014 to $7.5 billion in 2015. Out of 14 international donor countries, 13 have reduced funding.

Jennifer Kates, of the Kaiser Family Foundation, attributed this decline to competing demands such as the refugee crisis and fiscal austerity.

This donor funding primarily provides services to the key groups in resource-poor countries, such as gay men in sub-Saharan Africa.

Decreased funding could have devastating consequences for these key groups.

When elites talk about ending AIDS by 2030, it can sound very hollow to the key groups in resource-poor countries. The emergence of this conflict may give those groups a vice.

To get a feel for the 2016 AIDS conference as a meet-up for the global HIV communities, please visit Mark S. King’s video blogs from the conference, Bit.ly/2aD5E9J .

To read a summary of the entire conference, please visit, Bit.ly/2aanjAI .

To read the Kaiser Family Foundation’s report on donor funding, please visit, Kaiserf.am/2aAPA7c .

Follow Sean McShee on Twitter @SeanMcShee.

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NEWS local

Cold Case Solved!

14 years later, man admits to Wilton Manors killing

Linda Trischitta Sun Sentinel

F

or Richard Christopher Busey, it was supposed to be an evening of cocktails and companionship with a much younger man he met by a canal near his Wilton Manors condo.

But Busey, 69, was bludgeoned to death that April night in 2002, and his date vanished.

Fourteen years later, a 38-year-old drifter walked into a Des Moines, Iowa, police station last month and, citing his relationship with God, confessed to the violent slaying, authorities announced Thursday.

Scene of the crime A friend in 2002 looked through a sliding glass door of Busey’s first floor unit at the River Manor condominium on Northeast Fifth Terrace, saw his body on the living room floor and alerted firefighters.

Detectives found blood pooled around Busey’s corpse and pieces of a ceramic vase or lamp on the floor nearby. His feet poked out from beneath a blanket that covered his body. A nearby table was overturned. There were no signs of a breakin.

But Wilton Manors Police had a couple of leads: A homeless man in his 20s, known only as Josh, was believed to have been at Busey’s condominium before the killing. A man told detectives that his telephone caller ID showed he received a call from Busey’s home that was made

by Josh.

The day after the murder, Wilton Manors police arrested a man named Joshua Odom, not for the homicide, but for allegedly stealing a case of beer.

The store, on West Oakland Park Boulevard, was about a half-mile from Busey’s home. The arresting officer noted Odom’s hands were swollen and discolored, according to court documents.

When Odom was released from custody for the beer bust, he fled Florida, Odom told investigators last month.

A month after the murder and still looking for a suspect, Wilton Manors detectives released a sketch of the man known as Josh, who was about 24 years old, 5-foot-8 and weighed 150 pounds.

He had a surfer look, with long blond hair and a bright blue tattoo of intersecting lines on his chest.

In the 14 years between Busey’s homicide and Odom’s alleged confession, Broward sheriff’s homicide detectives believe he drifted from state to state, making stops in Texas and Indiana before settling in Iowa, an agency spokeswoman said Thursday.

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9 .14.2016

Richard Busey

A beloved uncle Busey’s obituary said in 1990, he moved to Florida from the nation’s capital, where he had been a member of the Arts Club of Washington.

A veteran of the U.S. Army, Busey was survived by relatives in Virginia and Germany, as well as by his companion, Miguel Santos, the death notice said.

Santos was in Guatemala visiting his family when Busey died. Santos could not be reached Thursday.

Kevin Siford and his sister, Pamela Elliott, of Virginia, were Busey’s nephew and niece.

“I am feeling good about the arrest,” Kevin Siford said. “We didn’t think we’d get any closure to it, but it’s funny how things worked out.”

Siford said his uncle “probably had the biggest heart of anyone you’d ever meet, and that probably led to his demise. He helped this guy, who robbed him and killed him.”

Busey was very generous to Siford and Elliott on their birthdays and holidays, taking them to movies and plays and on sightseeing trips around D.C., they said.

“He’d always give a ride to service personnel back in the day, when people would hitchhike, back in the ‘70s,” Siford said of his favorite uncle.

“He was just an all-around good guy.”

One of his fondest memories was seeing the movie “Star Wars” with Busey.

“I think of him when there’s a new one [“Star Wars”] out,” Siford said.

After his military service, Busey was a grounds management consultant for corporations, Elliott said.

She said she was “very grateful” that Odom surrendered to police, but was angry her uncle died in such a violent way.

Busey had “multiple sclerosis and was not strong,” Elliott said. “The man was defenseless, and not a big man at all. He had trouble walking.

If [Odom]’d asked my uncle for money, he would have given it to him. He didn’t have to hurt him.”

A confession Odom was staying in a Des Moines homeless shelter last month when he walked up to a deputy for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and said he needed to confess a homicide.

Odom provided enough details that the deputy referred the case to Des Moines police, said Sgt. Paul Parizek.

“We send a patrol cop over, who talks with Odom and realizes he’s serious, but someone with more knowledge about debriefing a suspect

Joshua Odom (above), the man who confessed to Busey’s murder.

and who has access to resources to call Florida authorities needed to talk to him,” Parizek said.

At the Des Moines police station, Detective Brad Youngblut “sits down with him, says ‘tell me what you want to tell me,’ and the detective dug as deep as he could,” Parizek said.

Odom “alluded to having substance-abuse issues and there were a lot of blurs in his life,” Parizek said. “He wasn’t super clear on a lot of those details.

“For instance, he wasn’t really sure of where he did it,” Parizek said. “But he provided enough details that investigators down there could recognize the incident.”

Odom returned to a shelter and Youngblut’s bulletin was sent to South Florida police departments.

A detective with Wilton Manors realized it was their unsolved case. A Broward sheriff’s detective interviewed Odom at the Des Moines police station, and he was taken into custody.

So why did Odom unburden himself, after all these years?

“The detective said Odom cited his relationship with God, said he’d found religion and he wanted to clear his sins,” Parizek said.

Night of the killing Odom told a Broward sheriff’s detective that the men met at a bench along a canal near Busey’s home and he was invited to his place.

Odom decided to murder and rob Busey, to get money to buy crack cocaine, according to the arrest warrant.

While Busey was seated in a recliner, Odom told investigators he put him in a chokehold until he was unresponsive. Then he took a vase or a pot and struck Busey in the head.

Odom covered Busey’s body with bed linens

and attempted to clean the condominium of DNA evidence before leaving, the warrant states.

But Odom’s fingerprints were found in a bathroom, according to the investigation.

The younger man told police he returned to the condo and climbed through the bedroom window to take a television and other property that he carried away in a shopping cart.

Odom was flown back to Fort Lauderdale and arrested on suspicion of murder and theft.

On Thursday, Broward County Judge Michael Davis ordered him held without bond in aBroward County jail.

Odom’s attorney, Assistant Public Defender Melisa McNeill, could not be reached for comment about her client.

A lost son From Texas, Odom’s heartbroken father Max Odom was reluctant to talk about his son, saying of Busey, “It’s not going to bring the man back.”

When asked about how his son has lived his life so far, Max Odom said, “It’s pretty much evident. When police said he was a drifter, that’s pretty much what it’s been.”

The family last heard from Joshua Odom a couple of years ago.

“The demon of addiction, he fell prey to that,” Max Odom said.

Express Gay News, 2002.

Sun Sentinel Staff researcher Barbara Hijek contributed to this report.

Sun Sentinel and South Florida Gay News are media partners.

news obituary

Photo: Toglenn, Wikipedia.

Alexis Arquette Dies At 47 John McDonald

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lexis Arquette, a member of a wellknown Hollywood family, has died.

Arquette, a trans woman, was 47.

“My heart goes out to anyone who was lucky enough to know Alexis. We will love and miss you forever,” tweeted Courtney Cox. Cox was married to Alexis’ brother David Arquette for 14 years. David, Patricia, Rosanna and Richmond were present Sunday morning when Alexis passed away, reports multiple news sources. The cause of death was unexpected and unspecified, reports the Associated Press.

Alexis appeared in season six of the VH1 reality series, “The Surreal Life,” bringing attention to transgender issues. She had bit roles in films such as “The Wedding Singer” and “Pulp Fiction” and often could be found in the Los Angeles club scene performing under the name Eva Destruction.

In a public statement, the Arquettes said Alexis took a risk to live authentically and

her career “was cut short, not by her passing, but by her decision to live her truth and her life as a transgender woman.”

Born Robert Arquette in Los Angeles in 1969, Alexis documented her transition and sexual reassignment surgery in a 2007 film, “Alexis Arquette: She’s My Brother.”

“My hero for eternity,” David tweeted.

Late Monday, People Magazine reported Alexis died of complications from AIDS.

9.14.2016 •

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TRIUMEQ is a once-a-day pill used to treat HIV-1. TRIUMEQ should not be used by itself in some people. Take TRIUMEQ exactly as your healthcare provider tells you.

Is it time for you? Ask your doctor.

APPROVED USES TRIUMEQ is a prescription HIV-1 (Human Immunodeficiency Virus-type 1) medicine used alone or with other antiretroviral medicines to treat HIV-1 infection in adults. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. TRIUMEQ is not for use by itself in people who have or have had resistance to abacavir, dolutegravir, or lamivudine. TRIUMEQ should not be used in children under the age of 18.

TRIUMEQ does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. You must keep taking HIV-1 medicines to control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

• Worsening of hepatitis B virus in people who have HIV-1 infection. If you have HIV-1 and hepatitis B virus (HBV), your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking What is the most important information I should know about TRIUMEQ? TRIUMEQ. A “flare-up” is when your HBV suddenly returns in a worse way than before.

TRIUMEQ can cause serious side effects, including: Worsening liver disease can be serious and may lead to death. Do not stop taking • Serious allergic reactions (hypersensitivity reaction) that can cause death have TRIUMEQ without first talking to your healthcare provider, so he or she can monitor happened with TRIUMEQ and other abacavir-containing products. Your risk of your health. this allergic reaction to abacavir is much higher if you have a gene variation called • Resistant hepatitis B virus. If you have HIV-1 and hepatitis B, the hepatitis B virus HLA-B*5701. Your healthcare provider can determine with a blood test if you have this can change (mutate) during your treatment with TRIUMEQ and become harder to treat gene variation. If you get symptoms from 2 or more of the following groups (resistant). while taking TRIUMEQ, call your healthcare provider right away: 1. fever; • Use with interferon and ribavirin-based regimens. If you’re taking TRIUMEQ 2. rash; 3. nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain; 4. generally ill feeling, and interferon, with or without ribavirin, tell your healthcare provider about any new extreme tiredness, or achiness; 5. shortness of breath, cough, or sore throat. symptoms. Worsening of liver disease that has caused death has happened in people Your pharmacist will give you a Warning Card with a list of these symptoms. Carry infected with both HIV-1 and hepatitis C who were taking antiretroviral medicines and this Warning Card with you at all times. interferon.

If you stop taking TRIUMEQ because of an allergic reaction, never take Who should not take TRIUMEQ? TRIUMEQ or any other abacavir- or dolutegravir-containing medicines again.

• Do not take TRIUMEQ if you: If you take TRIUMEQ or any other abacavir-containing medicine again after you have have the HLA-B*5701 gene variation had an allergic reaction, within hours you may get life-threatening symptoms are allergic to abacavir, dolutegravir, or any of the ingredients in TRIUMEQ that may include very low blood pressure or death. If you stop TRIUMEQ for any take dofetilide (Tikosyn®) other reason, even for a few days, and you are not allergic to TRIUMEQ, talk with your have liver problems healthcare provider before taking it again. Taking TRIUMEQ again can cause a serious What are other possible side effects of TRIUMEQ? allergic or life-threatening reaction, even if you never had an allergic reaction to it before. If your healthcare provider tells you that you can take TRIUMEQ again, • People with a history of hepatitis B or C virus may have an increased risk of developing start taking it when you are around medical help or people who can call a new or worsening changes in certain liver tests during treatment with TRIUMEQ. healthcare provider if you need one.

Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your liver function before and during treatment with TRIUMEQ. • A buildup of acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis can happen in some people who take TRIUMEQ. This serious medical emergency can cause death.

• When you start taking HIV-1 medicines, your immune system may get stronger and Call your healthcare provider right away if you feel very weak or tired; have begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your unusual muscle pain; have trouble breathing; have stomach pain with nausea and healthcare provider right away if you start having new symptoms after you start taking vomiting; feel cold, especially in your arms and legs; feel dizzy/light-headed; or have TRIUMEQ. a fast/irregular heartbeat.

• Changes in body fat can happen in people who take HIV-1 medicines.

• Serious liver problems can happen in people who take TRIUMEQ. In some cases, • Some HIV-1 medicines, including TRIUMEQ, may increase your risk of heart attack. these serious liver problems can lead to death. You may be more likely to get The most common side effects of TRIUMEQ include: trouble sleeping, headache, lactic acidosis or serious liver problems if you are female, very overweight tiredness (obese), or have been taking nucleoside analogue medicines for a long time.

These are not all the possible side effects of TRIUMEQ. Tell your healthcare provider if Call your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following signs you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. or symptoms: yellow skin, or the white part of the eyes turns yellow (jaundice); dark urine; lightImportant Safety Information continued on next page. colored stools; loss of appetite for several days or longer; nausea; pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your stomach area You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Important Facts about TRIUMEQ on the following pages. ©2015 ViiV Healthcare group of companies. All rights reserved.

Printed in USA. 527405R0 October 2015

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Not an actual patient. Testimonial is based on a collection of real patient experiences.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking TRIUMEQ? • Before you take TRIUMEQ, tell your healthcare provider if you: have been tested and know whether or not you have a gene variation called HLA-B*5701 have or have had liver problems, including hepatitis B or C infection; have kidney problems; have heart problems, smoke, or have diseases that increase your risk of heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes; drink alcohol or take medicines that contain alcohol are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TRIUMEQ will harm your unborn baby are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take TRIUMEQ • You should not take TRIUMEQ if you also take: abacavir (EPZICOM®, TRIZIVIR®, or ZIAGEN®) lamivudine (COMBIVIR®, DutrebisTM, EPIVIR®, EPIVIR-HBV®, EPZICOM, or TRIZIVIR) emtricitabine (Emtriva®, Atripla®, Complera®, Stribild®, or Truvada®) • Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines (for example, antacids or laxatives;

vitamins such as iron or calcium supplements; anti-seizure medicines; other medicines to treat HIV-1, hepatitis, or tuberculosis; metformin; or methadone), vitamins, and herbal supplements (for example, St. John’s wort). Some medicines interact with TRIUMEQ. Keep a list of your medicines to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist. Do not start taking a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider.

9.14.2016 •

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IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT TRIUMEQ ® (TRI-u-meck) The risk information provided here is not comprehensive. To learn more, talk about TRIUMEQ with your healthcare provider (HCP) or pharmacist. Visit www.TRIUMEQ.com or call 1-877-844-8872 to get FDA-approved product information, including the Boxed Warning and Medication Guide.

What is the most important information I should know about TRIUMEQ? TRIUMEQ can cause serious side effects, including: • Serious allergic reactions (hypersensitivity reaction) that can cause death have happened with TRIUMEQ and other abacavir-containing products. Your risk of this allergic reaction to abacavir is much higher if you have a gene variation called HLA-B*5701. Your HCP can determine with a blood test if you have this gene variation.

If you get a symptom from 2 or more of the following groups while taking TRIUMEQ, call your HCP right away to find out if you should stop taking TRIUMEQ: Group 1: fever Group 4: general ill feeling, Group 2: rash extreme tiredness, or achiness Group 3: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, Group 5: shortness of breath, abdominal (stomach area) pain cough, sore throat Your pharmacist will give you a Warning Card with a list of these symptoms. Carry this Warning Card with you at all times.

• If you stop TRIUMEQ because of an allergic reaction, never take TRIUMEQ (abacavir, dolutegravir and lamivudine) or any other abacavir- or dolutegravir-containing medicines (EPZICOM®, TIVICAY®, TRIZIVIR®, or ZIAGEN®) again.

• Within hours of taking them, you could have life-threatening symptoms like very low blood pressure that might lead to death.

• If you stop TRIUMEQ for any other reason, even for a few days, and you are not allergic to TRIUMEQ, talk with your HCP before taking it again. Taking TRIUMEQ again can cause a serious allergic or life-threatening reaction, even if you never had an allergic reaction to it before. If your HCP tells you that you can take TRIUMEQ again, start taking it when you’re around medical help or people who can call a HCP if you need one.

• Build-up of acid in the blood, called lactic acidosis, can happen in people who take TRIUMEQ. Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can cause death.

Call your HCP right away if you get any of the following symptoms that could be signs of lactic acidosis: • feeling very weak or tired • feeling cold, especially in your arms and legs • unusual (not normal) muscle pain • feeling dizzy or light-headed • trouble breathing • fast or irregular heartbeat • stomach pain with nausea and vomiting • Serious liver problems can happen in people who take TRIUMEQ. In some cases, these serious liver problems can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis). Call your HCP right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms of liver problems: • your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice) • dark or “tea-colored” urine • light colored stools (bowel movements) • loss of appetite for several days or longer • nausea • pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your stomach area You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or serious liver problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking nucleoside analogue medicines for a long time.

• Worsening of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in people who have HIV-1 infection. If you have Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) and HBV, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking TRIUMEQ. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns, worse than before. Worsening liver disease can be serious and may lead to death. To help avoid this, do not run out of TRIUMEQ. Refill your prescription or talk to your HCP before your TRIUMEQ is all gone. Do not stop TRIUMEQ without first talking to your HCP. If you stop taking TRIUMEQ, your HCP will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your liver.

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9 .14.2016

• Resistant HBV If you have HIV-1 and HBV, the HBV can change (mutate) while you’re on TRIUMEQ and become harder to treat (resistant).

• Use with interferon and ribavirin-based regimens. Worsening of liver disease that has caused death has happened in people infected with both HIV-1 and hepatitis C virus who are taking antiretroviral medicines and are also being treated for hepatitis C with interferon with or without ribavirin. If you are taking TRIUMEQ and interferon with or without ribavirin, tell your HCP if you have any new symptoms.

What is TRIUMEQ? TRIUMEQ is a prescription HIV-1 medicine used alone or with other antiretroviral medicines to treat HIV-1 infection in adults. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. TRIUMEQ contains 3 prescription medicines, abacavir (ZIAGEN), dolutegravir (TIVICAY) and lamivudine (EPIVIR®).

TRIUMEQ is not for use by itself in people who have or have had resistance to abacavir, dolutegravir, or lamivudine. TRIUMEQ should not be used in children under the age of 18.

TRIUMEQ does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. You must keep taking HIV-1 medicines to control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses.

Who should not take TRIUMEQ? Don’t take TRIUMEQ if you: • have a certain type of gene variation called the HLA-B*5701 allele. Your HCP will test you for this before prescribing treatment with TRIUMEQ. • are allergic to abacavir, dolutegravir, or any of the ingredients in TRIUMEQ. See the full Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in TRIUMEQ. • take dofetilide (TIKOSYN®). Taking TRIUMEQ and dofetilide (TIKOSYN) can cause side effects that may be life-threatening.

• have liver or kidney problems.

What should I tell my HCP before taking TRIUMEQ? Before you take TRIUMEQ, tell your HCP if you: • have been tested and know whether or not you have a particular gene variation called HLA-B*5701.

• have or have had liver problems, including hepatitis B or C virus infection.

• have kidney problems.

• have heart problems, smoke, or have diseases that increase your risk of heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

• drink alcohol or take medicines that contain alcohol.

• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TRIUMEQ will harm your unborn baby. Talk to your HCP if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take TRIUMEQ. You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby.

What other medications might interact with TRIUMEQ? Tell your HCP about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some medicines interact with TRIUMEQ. Keep a list of your medicines to show your HCP and pharmacist. You can ask your HCP or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with TRIUMEQ. Do not start taking a new medicine without telling your HCP. Your HCP can tell you if it is safe to take TRIUMEQ with other medicines.

You should not take TRIUMEQ if you also take: • abacavir (EPZICOM, TRIZIVIR, or ZIAGEN) • lamivudine (COMBIVIR®, DUTREBISTM, EPIVIR®, EPIVIR-HBV®, EPZICOM, or TRIZIVIR) • emtricitabine (ATRIPLA®, COMPLERA®, EMTRIVA®, STRIBILD®, or TRUVADA®) Tell your HCP if you take: • antacids, laxatives, or other medicines that contain aluminum, magnesium, sucralfate (CARAFATE®), or buffered medicines. TRIUMEQ should be taken at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after you take these medicines.

• anti-seizure medicines: • oxcarbazepine (TRILEPTAL®) • phenytoin (DILANTIN®, DILANTIN®-125, PHENYTEK®) • phenobarbital • carbamazepine (CARBATROL®, EQUETRO®, TEGRETOL®, TEGRETOL®-XR, TERIL®, EPITOL®) • any other medicine to treat HIV-1 (continued on the next page)

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT TRIUMEQ ® (TRI-u-meck) (cont’d) • iron or calcium supplements taken by mouth. Supplements containing calcium or iron may be taken at the same time with TRIUMEQ if taken with food. Otherwise, TRIUMEQ should be taken at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after you take these medicines.

• medicines used to treat hepatitis virus infections, such as interferon or ribavirin • a medicine that contains metformin • methadone • rifampin (RIFATER®, RIFAMATE®, RIMACTANE®, RIFADIN®) • St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) What are other possible side effects of TRIUMEQ? TRIUMEQ can cause serious side effects including: • See “What is the most important information I should know about TRIUMEQ?” • Changes in liver tests. People with a history of hepatitis B or C virus may have an increased risk of developing new or worsening changes in certain liver tests during treatment with TRIUMEQ. Your HCP may do tests to check your liver function before and during treatment with TRIUMEQ. • Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your HCP right away if you start having new symptoms after you start taking TRIUMEQ. • Changes in body fat can happen in people who take HIV-1 medicines. These changes may include an increased amount of fat in the upper back and neck (“buffalo hump”), breast, and around the middle of your body (trunk). Loss of fat from the legs, arms, and face may also happen. The exact cause and long-term health effects of these conditions are not known.

• Heart attack (myocardial infarction). Some HIV-1 medicines including TRIUMEQ may increase your risk of heart attack.

What are the most common side effects of TRIUMEQ? • trouble sleeping • headache • tiredness These are not all the possible side effects of TRIUMEQ. Tell your HCP if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Manufactured for: by:

ViiV Healthcare Research Triangle Park, NC 27709

GlaxoSmithKline Research Triangle Park, NC 27709

Lamivudine is manufactured under agreement from Shire Pharmaceuticals Group plc Basingstoke, UK COMBIVIR, EPIVIR, EPZICOM, TIVICAY, TRIUMEQ, TRIZIVIR, and ZIAGEN are registered trademarks of the ViiV Healthcare group of companies.

EPIVIR-HBV is a registered trademark of the GSK group of companies.

The other brands listed are trademarks of their respective owners and are not trademarks of the ViiV Healthcare group of companies. The makers of these brands are not affiliated with and do not endorse the ViiV Healthcare group of companies or its products. ©2015, the ViiV Healthcare group of companies. All rights reserved.

Issued: September 2015 TRM:3MG

news local

Fire Closes Popular Coffee Shop John McDonald

John McDonald

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vendors inside Eucalyptus Gardens. It was voted best coffee house by readers of the New Times in 2016 and is nominated for Best Kept Secret in this year’s Best of awards at SFGN. As of Tuesday afternoon, the Alchemist still had no power and was operating on generators from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., said Molina.

n Thursday, the City of North Miami announced plans to construct a sculpture dedicated to the LGBT community.

The news came via e-mail from City Councilman Scott Galvin.

“The project was inspired by the tragedy at Orlando’s Pulse nightclub in June of 2016,” Galvin writes. “Rather than be a somber memorial to those victims, North Miami’s sculpture will be a celebration of LGBT lives and an acknowledgement of LGBTcontributions in Miami-Dade County.”

The city has selected Enchanted Forest Elaine Gordon Park, 1725 N.E. 135 Street, as the host site for the sculpture. The 22-acre park contains indigenous oak hammocks, a creek and walking trails.

A timeline of significant moments in LGBT history will accompany the sculpture, Galvin said. The project is funded to the tune of $30,000 by North Miami’s District

Submitted Photo

building fire has shut down one of South Florida’s popular coffeehouses.

The Alchemist, a trendy coffeehouse on the east side of Wilton Manors, has been closed for two weeks following a fire in the building’s electrical room.

In a report by the Fort Lauderdale FireRescue Investigation Unit, the main meter switch was found arching and smoldering.

Fort Lauderdale Fire-Rescue Engine 16 crew responded to a 911 call on August 27 at 3:20 p.m.

Chris McGrath, spokesman for Florida Power & Light, declined to comment on what may have sparked the fire.

Anjo Molina, Alchemist general manager, told SFGN the fire put as many as 15 of his employees out of work. The investigation

by Fort Lauderdale Fire-Rescue determined there was $25,000 in property loss and $5,000 in contents loss.

Located at 2430 N.E. 13th Avenue in Wilton Manors, the Alchemist attracts a young and hip crowd who come for its home roasted coffee and funky collection of independent

North Miami To Build LGBT Sculpture

1 budget. Professional artists interested in working on the project should submit proposals by Oct. 14.

For more information, contact rhenriquez@ northmiamifl.gov or 305-687-3977.

9.14.2016 •

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Compiled by Jillian Melero

Kaine Says Catholic Church Might Change on Gay Marriage (AP) Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Kaine is predicting that the Roman Catholic Church may eventually change its opposition to gay marriage.

Kaine is a devout Roman Catholic as well as a U.S. senator from Virginia and a former governor of that state. He told the Human Rights Campaign during its national dinner Saturday in Washington that he had changed his mind about gay marriage and that his church may follow suit one day.

“I think it’s going to change because my church also teaches me about a creator who, in the first chapter of Genesis, surveyed the entire world, including mankind, and said, ‘It is very good,’” Kaine said. He then recalled Pope Francis’ remark that “who am I to judge?” in reference to gay priests.

“I want to add: Who am I to challenge God for the beautiful diversity of the human family? I think we’re supposed to celebrate it, not challenge it,” Kaine said.

national

While he pledged to fight for increased rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer Americans, Kaine admitted that he had opposed gay marriage until 2005.

“For a long time while I was battling for LGBT equality, I believed that marriage was something different,” he said. Virginia’s lieutenant governor when state lawmakers pushed for a constitutional amendment to keep marriage between one man and one woman, he recalled speaking to amendment supporters who said they hoped LGBT people would feel so unwelcome that they would move out of Virginia.

“When I heard the proponents describe their motivations, it became clearer to me where I should stand on this,” he said.

Voters approved the amendment in 2006. The U.S. Supreme Court legalized gay marriage in all states in June 2015.

religion

Manning Starts Hunger Strike . African Archbishop Wants to Chelsea S to Protest Treatment Deny Entry to Anti-LGBT American Pastor to Country (AP) A transgender soldier imprisoned in Kansas for leaking classified information to the WikiLeaks website says she is on a hunger strike until her treatment improves.

Chelsea Manning says she began the hunger strike Friday because her pleas for better treatment at Fort Leavenworth have been ignored. She says she will not voluntarily consume anything except water and prescription medication.

In the statement supplied by her ACLU attorney, Manning says the hunger strike will continue until she receives the “minimum standards of dignity, respect and humanity” and she is prepared for the possibility of dying.

Manning, arrested as Bradley Manning, was convicted in 2013 in military court of leaking more than 700,000 secret military and State Department documents.

Army spokesman Wayne Hall said Friday he was looking into the situation.

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(EDGE) A high-ranking Anglican clergyman is calling on the government of South Africa to deny a virulently antiLGBT American pastor entry to the country.

If Archbishop Emeritus Njongonkulu Ndungane has his way, Pastor Steven Anderson of the Faithful World Baptist Church of Phoenix, Arizona won’t be able to export his brand of anti-LGBT hate to South Africa. According to Newsweek, Anderson has plans to travel to South Africa for what he describes as a “soul-winning marathon” on September 18.

According to Times Live, Ndungane contacted government officials Thursday night after Anderson apparently labelled the Minister of Home Affairs‚ Malusi Gigaba‚ a “sodomite” in a video broadcast.

“This guy [Gigaba] is such a joke,” said Anderson in the video. “If he was going to ban me, he would have done it months ago. But he’s just stringing these sodomites along and it’s funny how they don’t pick up on it, they don’t get the hint.”

Anderson made headlines in June when he praised the mass killing at Orlando gay nightclub Pulse, saying that the shooter had “rid the world of 50 sodomites.”

“He has every right in his country of origin to say what he wants. But we are not importing bigotry in South Africa.

There is absolutely no way that we are going to accept somebody, an absolute, downright, unrepentant bigot

Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Kaine.

Photo: POOL, CNN.

to come into South Africa,” Gigaba wrote in a statement released on social media on Friday.

“Our Constitution‚ of which we are all immensely proud‚ makes it quite clear that there will be no discrimination against people of a different sexuality,” Ndungane said.

“Neither does it allow hate speech in South Africa. How‚ then‚ can we allow such an openly homophobic and antigay person the right to speak on public platforms in our country?”

international

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exicans March for Gay Marriage Day After Opponents Rally

(AP) Hundreds of gay and lesbian rights supporters marched to Mexico City’s Metropolitan Cathedral to support same-sex marriage Sunday, one day after thousands marched against it.

Sunday’s demonstrators carried a banner reading “We are families too” and placards reading “I respect your family, respect mine.”

A day earlier, marches were held in several Mexican cities opposing same-sex marriage. White-clad demonstrators Saturday chanted “Children need a father and a mother!” and “Wake up and defend the family.”

In May, President Enrique Pena Nieto proposed legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide. It is currently legal only in some places such as Mexico City, the northern state of Coahuila and Quintana Roo state on the Caribbean coast.

Pena Nieto’s party suffered losses in midterm elections in June and has largely sat on the initiative since then.

News Briefs

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continued H EALT H

rlando Officials Want to Keep Pulse Assistance Center Open

(AP) Orlando city officials say they want to keep an assistance center for victims of the Pulse nightclub massacre open for several more years.

The Orlando Sentinel reports (http://bit. ly/2cEFcd8 ) the city council voted Aug. 29 to pay the Heart of Florida United Way over $123,000 to staff the Orlando United Assistance Center through early November.

Survivors of the June 12 shooting can seek

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grief counseling, rent assistance and other services at the center. A senior adviser to the city on social services, Lori Pampilo Harris, told the newspaper the center will be needed for “no less than three years.”

The OneOrlando Fund is preparing pay-outs later this month for the families of 49 people killed and dozens more people hurt or affected by the massacre at Pulse, a gay nightclub.

o b i t ua ry

ransgender ‘Midnight’ Star, Lady Chablis Dies in Savannah

(EDGE) Transgender performer, author and television personality Lady Chablis, best known for playing herself in the film version of the classic crime novel “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” has passed. She was 59.

Lady Chablis first achieved national notoriety in John Berendt’s 1994 classic real life crime drama “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” In 1996, she tried her hand at writing and penned her autobiography “Hiding My Candy.” In 1997, Lady Chablis was tapped by director Clint Eastwood to play herself in the film version of Berendt’s book.

Lady Chablis would go on to make numerous television appearances on talk shows like Oprah. In 2013, she took her scenestealing skills to reality TV in an episode of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.”

“Lady Chablis is the original drag queen in Savannah, Georgia. She is history honey,” NeNe Leakes said during the episode.

“Just as The Book shined the spotlight on Savannah, so too did Chablis shine the spotlight on the gay scene, and especially on Club One,” read a statement released by Savannah gay bar Club One. “She was Club One’s very first entertainer, officiating our grand opening in 1988, and paving the way for

female impersonation in Savannah. No one, however, could outshine the Grand Empress herself.”

According to the Club One statement, Lady Chablis had “long been a giver to the community. Throughout the 2000s, she worked closely on various campaigns for the American Diabetes Association, donating thousands of dollars raised by her performances to the cause.”

Chablis is survived by her sister Cynthia.

Lady Chablis.

Photo: Facebook.

9.14.2016 •

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NEWS entertainment

In Festival-Hit ‘Moonlight,’ Growing Up Black and Gay Jake Coyle

Associated Press

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The shimmering glow of Barry Jenkins’ “Moonlight,” a poetic coming-of-age tale told across three chapters about a young gay black kid growing up in a poor, drug-ridden neighborhood of Miami, has lit up this year’s fall film festival circuit like no other film.

Following its much-lauded debut at the Telluride Film Festival last week and leading up to its bow Saturday at the Toronto International Film Festival, “Moonlight” has been received with an overflowing of emotion and acclaim.

It’s an uncannily intimate portrait of a young man’s identity being formed, in fits and starts, both painful and beautiful, with profound reverberations about black America.

The film, executive produced by Brad Pitt, has, among other things, established its director as a major talent in cinema. It’s Jenkins’ second film, coming eight years after his wellreceived 2008 feature debut, “Medicine for Melancholy.” ‘’Moonlight” will also land at the upcoming New York Film Festival before hitting theaters Oct. 21.

“Very rarely do you realize ‘I’m living one of my dreams’ in the present tense,” Jenkins said Friday in Toronto, having come straight from Telluride and still elated by his film’s reception.

“Moonlight” is based on the play “In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue” by Tarell Alvin McCraney, who, like his protagonist Chiron, grew up homosexual outside Miami, the son of a crack-addicted mother. Though Jenkins is heterosexual, he comes from the same area and his mother was also an addict.

“When I read Tarell’s play, I saw myself literally,” says Jenkins, whose film takes details, like warming bathwater on the stove, from his own impoverished upbringing. “It was empathy but it was empathy on a different level. So I’m all over it. That is all my childhood.”

“Moonlight” follows Chiron in three separate, chronological stages and through three separate actors. Alex Hibbert plays him as a shy, uncertain, bullied boy; Ashton Sanders plays him an awkward teen, awakening to his sexuality; and Trevante Rhodes is Chiron as a hardened adult.

“I was like: They don’t have to look alike.

Their skin tone should be somewhat similar,” says Jenkins of their casting. “But it’s got to be this feeling and they have to have the same eyes. We really cast those guys for their eyes.”

The power of “Moonlight” comes substantially from the way each version of Chiron is a boiling mix of confusion under the surface, as he tries to figure out who he is.

“It’s not a loquacious film. There’s a lot of

space and a lot of silence,” says Jenkins. “I always approached it as: You have to hone in on these moments. I did think that you could get more out of watching someone respond and react to a very simple ripple in the formation of their identity than three hours of going through these small, incremental waves.”

For Jenkins, that interior, unspoken existence has a larger meaning.

“There’s something in the way black men grow up in this country,” he says. “There’s a lot of information on these men’s faces when they’re not speaking, partly because we’re robbed of our voices so much by society and the things society projects on us.”

In the intervening years between his feature debut and “Moonlight,” Jenkins spent a number of them trying to make a film with Focus Features’ James Schamus and John Lyons, whom Jenkins credits for taking him under their wing. The movie, which never came to fruition, he says, was too high-concept and too ambitious. “It was about time travel and Stevie Wonder,” he says, chuckling. “It was out there.”

When the suggestion of adapting McCraney’s play came up, Jenkins hesitated.

“When this play first came to me, I was scared. Can this be my second film? I don’t know,” he says. “But there was something about it that just grabbed me. I think I would have been too afraid of the material in 2009.

That voice in the back of my head would have been saying: You can’t do this for your second film. You have to somehow build.”

Instead, Jenkins found a new direction by, for the first time, returning to his own life.

“I was not living my full identity by not putting that into my work,” says Jenkins. “So here we are.”

News Briefs

continued legal

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C Gov. McCrory: Business Lobby Group Helped Shape LGBT Law

(AP) North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory says business lobbyists helped shape a state law limiting protections for LGBT people but that also included employer-friendly provisions banning local minimum wage increases and making it harder for workers to sue for workplace discrimination.

The governor said Wednesday many business leaders who have been critical of the legislation - more than 100 corporations have expressed their opposition and some have reversed plans to expand in North Carolina - do not understand the law’s contents and should read it for themselves.

“It’s only a five-page bill. There are four parts of it, two parts that the Chamber of Commerce helped write, in North Carolina,” McCrory said during an interview Wednesday with a news website focused on startup companies. The video was posted on the website of McCrory’s reelection campaign organization.

In the interview, McCrory then lists three provisions of the bill beyond the

bathroom restrictions on transgender people that have attracted nationwide attention and lawsuits by the Obama Administration. Those lesser-known provisions block municipalities from forcing employers to raise the minimum wage they pay locally; prohibits cities and counties from requiring contractors to apply anti-discrimination protections for LGBT people beyond state law; and closing state courts to workplace discrimination lawsuits.

On Wednesday, McCrory - seeking reelection in November against Democratic challenger and Attorney General Roy Cooper - released a new TV ad in which he seemed to express disbelief at the dispute over gender and bathroom use.

“You know, when we were raising the average teacher pay, creating new jobs and cutting taxes, other folks were actually pushing to make our schools allow boys to use the girl’s locker rooms and showers,” McCrory said in his ad. “Are we really talking about this?”

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national

OJ Drops Fight Over Release of 911 Calls from Pulse Massacre

(AP) The U.S. Department of Justice has dropped its legal case against the release of 911 calls from the massacre at a gay nightclub in Florida, saying Wednesday that withholding the recordings is no longer necessary to the federal investigation.

The reversal by federal prosecutors keeps the freedom of information fight in state court.

About two dozen media groups, including The Associated Press, have asked the city of Orlando and the Justice Department to release the recordings of the 911 calls and other calls gunman Omar Mateen had with Orlando Police after opening fire at the Pulse nightclub last June.

His hours-long rampage killed 49 people and wounded 53 before he was killed in a shootout with a SWAT team rescuing his hostages.

The U.S. attorney’s office and the FBI are now dropping their request that the city of Orlando withhold releasing the 911 calls, said William Daniels, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney’s office in Tampa.

“The Federal Bureau of Investigation has determined that the specific records at issue are no longer part of its active and ongoing

criminal investigations into the shootings at Pulse nightclub,” Daniels said in an email.

Cassandra Lafser, a spokeswoman for the city, said she had no immediate response.

The media groups have said releasing the recordings could help the public evaluate the police response to the worst mass shooting in recent U.S. history. The city countered that the recordings were exempt under Florida’s public records law, and that the FBI was insisting that their release could disrupt the criminal investigation.

The Department of Justice had pushed to have the legal fight moved to federal court, where Florida’s public records law wouldn’t apply, but a federal judge sent the case back to state court.

That’s where two hearings have been scheduled for later this month.

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LGBTQIA bites

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Lesbian

Miss Missouri, First Openly Lesbian Miss America Contestant

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Bisexual

Bisexuals at Disadvantage in Dating Pool Photo: Facebook.

(SFGN) Erin O’ Flaherty, Miss Missouri, was one of 52 contestants competing for the 2016 Miss America crown Sunday.

“Behind the scenes, we’ve been wellrepresented, but I’m the first openly gay title holder, so I’m very excited,” she told The Associated Press in a recent interview (http://bit.ly/2c4eZmN//). “I knew going in that I had the opportunity to make history. Now I get to be more visible to the community and meet more people.”

O’Flaherty competed on the platform of preventing suicide, which disproportionately affects lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth, Reuters reports (http://reut.rs/2cO7LFt).

“It’s really important for me just to exist in this capacity as completely who I am and be open and proud about it for the LGBT community,” she said.

While O’Flaherty is the first Miss America contestant to win a title while out,

By Jillian Melero

others have come out after competing.

Djuan Trent, competed as Miss Kentucky in 2011 finished in the top 10, and came out as a lesbian in 2014 according to the AP.

(SFGN) A new study conducted by adult toy website Adam & Eve surveyed more than 1000 participants ages 18 and older to find that 47 percent said they would never date a bisexual person, 35 percent said were open to the idea, and 19 percent were undecided, according to a statement by Adam & Eve (http://bit.ly/2cz3JD1).

Of these, more men than women (39% versus 31%) were open to a relationship with a bisexual partner. 23% of the women

versus 15% of the men were unsure.

“It’s encouraging to see that people are open to the idea of sexuality encompassing more than the traditional male/female partnership.” Said Dr. Kat Van Kirk, Adam & Eve’s “sexpert.”

It is worth mention that the survey failed to take into account questions such as the sexuality of the respondents, their age, nor did it delve into the reasons why they would or would not date a bisexual person.

LGBTQIA bites

continued Transgender

T

Navy Promotes Trans Officer (SFGN) Navy officer Blake Dremann was promoted to the rank of lieutenant commander in a ceremony on Friday, making him the first known openly transgender person to be promoted in military service, according to a statement from Insiders Out. Dremann was one of 24 pioneers who helped integrate women into submarine service, and recently took the position of Board Chair and President for SPART*A, or Service members, Partners, Allies for Respect and Tolerance for All. Dremann was promoted, at his request, by Deputy Asst. Secretary of Defense Amanda Simpson, the highest ranking transgender person in the DOD. Transgender Air Force Major Bree Wagner emceed the event.

The ceremony was attended by two admirals, officers from Dremann’s office, his family, and representatives from SPARTA (www.spartapride.org/), the National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE), the

Submitted photo.

American Military Partner Association (AMPA), and Out Serve – Service members Legal Defense Network (OSSLDN) as well as other transgender service members from the area.

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news analysis

The Refused Wedding Cake and Rights of Religious Minorities Sean McShee

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he Christian Right claims that religious freedom depends on a religious refusal to bake a wedding cake. They also heavily supported laws prohibiting same-sex marriage. The “refused wedding cake” occurs in a for-profit secular activity. The laws prohibiting same-sex marriage directly interfered with the religious activity of MCC and other inclusive religions.

The Christian right wants to pit LGBT rights against their claimed “religious” rights. Therefore, it becomes important for the LGBT communities to understand religious freedom issues.

Unpopular opinions need more protection than popular opinions do. Similarly, stigmatized religious minorities need more protection than safe religious majorities do.

At least three religious minorities currently have contested religious freedom issues: Native American religions, Islam, and the Pagan revival. A fourth tradition, Santeria, has recently escaped from interference, at least in South Florida.

Like LGBT identity, religious identity lacks outward markers.

Religious minorities face some of the same issues as LGBT people do. People from both groups can pass, and have complex, managed identities with disclosure issues.

Holidays The Christian calendar forms the basis for the standard U.S. work week and school calendars. Sundays, Christmas, and Easter are never workdays in the standard workweek.

This creates problems for religious Jews, Muslims, Pagans, and other non-Christians. Some use their vacation days for their religious holidays. Christians do not have to sacrifice vacation days for their religious holidays. Requesting days off requires either disclosing or lying to follow your religious tradition.

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The Native American Religions Traditions and the U.S. Legal Tradition Some, but not all, Native American Tribes (Nations) historically had socially valued roles in which LGBT people could be comfortable. In 1990, LGBT Native Americans decided to use the English term “two-spirit,” as a pan-Indian term for these roles.

Many Native Americans today follow traditional religious practices. Three major areas of conflict occur between Native American religions and U.S. culture.

First, some Native American religious practices fuse rite and location. Some religious rites can only occur in specific locations, which may lie outside of reservations.

If these sites became disturbed or polluted, parts of Native American religion would disappear. Second, some sacred objects such as eagle feathers, involve endangered species. Third, some Native American religious practices involve ritual use of criminalized drugs such as peyote.

The current conflict with the Dakota Access Pipeline Project involves the fusion of rite and location. It will transport oil from North Dakota to Illinois, crossing two rivers. Members of the Sioux (Dakota) Nation charge that the pipeline will pollute those rivers and disturb their sacred sites. The Dakota have set up a Spirit Camp near the Standing Rock Reservation. After months of exchanging legal motions, Dakotas surged onto the construction site on August 16, 2016. Work has stopped on the pipeline.

Supreme Court rulings in the 80s and 90s narrowed earlier concepts of religious freedom. In one case, the Court defined a “substantial burden” as a fine, an imprisonment, or a benefit denied. The Court excluded pollution of sacred land from their definition of a

“substantial” burden, even if that “insubstantial” burden caused parts of Native American religion to disappear.

The second case involved two members of the Native American Church. When drug testing found peyote in their system, the two were fired. The ingestion of peyote forms the central rite of the Native American Church, much as Communion does for Catholics.

The Court held that religiously neutral laws fail to violate the First Amendment. In order to avoid First Amendment Issues, the laws have to fulfill two criteria.

The law has to apply to all citizens and fulfill a compelling state interest.

These two decisions produced an unusual bipartisan coalition. Congress passed The Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) in 1993. RFRA refined the concept of “strict scrutiny.” The government has to prove two things to avoid a violation of the First Amendment. The government, not the aggrieved religion, has the burden of proof. First, the law has to be necessary to further a compelling government interest. Second, the law must be the least restrictive method to achieve that interest.

RFRAs arose from these conflicts between Native American religions and the Federal Government. Now RFRAs form the legal basis of religious freedom law.

Hobby Lobby used RFRA to challenge The Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”). Twenty states have passed state RFRAs. Recently, a Michigan Court ruled that a funeral home could fire a transitioning employee under RFRA. The court held that the government had failed to prove that an EEOC suit was the least restrictive means to enforce its compelling interest in protecting LGBT people from discrimination. While higher courts could reject this ruling, it stands for now.

news analysis Santeria While slaveholders prevented enslaved Africans from maintaining African customs and languages, some did survive. In the Caribbean and Louisiana, more African traditions survived by hiding within another religion. African traditions, beliefs, and practices became embedded inside a Catholic practice.

Patron saints masked the god-like African Orishas.

In Cuba, these traditions have the name, Santeria.

Cuban migrations have brought this hidden tradition to Florida. Some people into Santeria consider themselves Christians. Others consider themselves to be practicing a traditional African religion.

Santeria has different sub-traditions. While some sub-traditions have LGBT people in leadership positions, others are much less welcoming. Manny Tejeda-Moreno, PhD, a social science researcher focusing on religious discrimination, estimates that about 10 percent of all people into Santeria would identify as LGBT. Santeria, a minority religion, is associated with a stigmatized group. Some people think of Santeria as a “lesser” religion, as they think of Africans as a “lesser” race. Cities enacted laws to bar Santeria practice within city limits. These laws targeted animal sacrifice. The Court decision of 1993 in Church of Lukumi Babalu Aye v City of Hialeah voided all such laws. After that decision, official harassment ceased.

Santeria can involve ritual animal sacrifices to improve someone’s relationship with an Orisha. These sacrifices occur rarely. Tejeda-Moreno described this discomfort, “It’s part of overall hypocrisy of wanting our food packaged without any blood.”

Tejeda-Moreno knew of no current cases of discrimination against people into Santeria.

Islam and Islamophobia Like the largest Christian denominations, mainstream Islam has a bad record on LGBT issues.

The Islamic State, Boko Haram, and Al-Qaeda are infinitely worse. Progressive pro-LGBT Muslims do exist, but their number is unknown. Just as LGBT Catholics, Mormons, and Southern Baptists can exist within hostile religious cultures, so can LGBT Moslems. As LGBT people have more reason to flee Syria and Iraq than others do, a higher percentage of LGBT people probably have become refugees than any other group. Most of us have not even thought about LGBT refugee rights.

U.S. bias against Islam probably results from three factors. First, most people in the U.S. lack familiarity with Islam or individual Muslims. Second, many African-Americans have converted to Islam, which many whites perceive as a rejection of U.S. culture.

Third, violent, apocalyptic death cults, such as The Islamic State, Boko Haram, and Al-Queda, have claimed that Islam justifies their war crimes. As most of the people that they have killed are Muslim, large numbers of Muslims reject that claim.

A large number of people in the U.S. feel OK about expressing open hostility towards Muslims. They conflate all 1.6 billion Muslims in the world with the miniscule number in the violent, apocalyptic death cults.

People have opposed mosque construction in Wilson, Wis., Newton County, Ga., Murphysboro, Tenn., and other locations. Most attempts to block church construction involve religiously neutral concerns, like parking. In these cases, however, people objected to Islam itself. In Wilson, Wis., a county commissioner asked whether the proposed mosque would train people in the use of weapons.

In Murphysboro, a former GOP Governor, Ron Ramsey, asked whether Islam was a religion or a cult.

Pat Robertson chimed in, wondering if the Islamic takeover of the US was imminent. Eventually, the County gave permission to build the mosque in Murphysboro.

On May 29, 2015, an armed anti-Muslim demonstration of 200, “Rally for Free Speech” occurred in Phoenix, Ariz. About the same number of counter-protestors met them. As Arizona allows the open carrying of firearms, all this was legal. The right to free speech protects the demonstration. The display of guns, however, may cross over to harassment and attempted intimidation. That mosque had already publically condemned terrorist violence.

The number of complaints of anti-Moslem workplace discrimination filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) rose from 330 in 2001 to 880 in 2011.

On Aug. 13, a Queens Imam and his assistant were killed leaving their mosque. A New York Grand Jury indicted Oscar Morel, 35, of Brooklyn for the murder.

Police are investigating this murder as a potential hate crime. As of press time, the police have not released a motive.

Native American chaplains in its prison system.

Pagan inmates in California prisons face many problems. Guards and other prisoners harass Pagan prisoners. Guards have placed Pagan inmates into solitary confinement for Pagan practices.

In 2008, Patrick McCollum testified before the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights about inmates’ religious rights. According to McCollum, prison guards refused to take an inmate with cancer to chemotherapy unless he removed his pentacle. The inmate missed chemotherapy.

McCollum charged that prison officials tend to view all actions using a monotheistic lens.

When couples with children break up, anti-Pagan bias sometimes becomes an issue in child custody. Courts have declared some Pagan parents to be “unfit” parent solely based on their religion. Accusations of raising children as Pagans have triggered Children’s Protective Services investigations. In one case, authorities took a child from a Pagan home.

They then placed the child in a foster group home that promoted Christianity.

The Pagan Revival

Conclusion

Paganism supposedly died out, with Christianity replacing it. In the last half century, Euro-American Paganism has begun to revive. The adjective “EuroAmerican” distinguishes this revival from living traditional religions.

Generally, Euro-American Paganism has welcomed LGBT members. Tejeda-Moreno estimates that about 20 percent of Pagans would identify as LGBT. Tejeda-Moreno discussed the results of a survey about Pagans in the workplace. Most Pagans reported a great deal of anxiety about disclosure. Those who had disclosed reported slights such as being invited to Christian centered prayers prior to meals. Insults that are more serious involved “praying” for the “salvation” of the Pagan.

Tejeda-Moreno reported, “Many Pagans prefer not to disclose in the workplace because they do not want to confront the negative stereotypes of their bosses and other workers.” The harassment, at least in South Florida, remains verbal and does not last long.

The Pagan revival has had to fight to gain recognition as a religion. It took a seven-year legal and political battle before the Veterans Administration (VA) allowed pentacles on grave markers of Pagan veterans. Since the VA began to allow these markers, over 100 have been distributed.

Pagans have had to struggle to be recognized as needing prison and hospital chaplains. The progressive state of California only allows paid Roman Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, and

It is not just the “refused” wedding cake.

Right-wing pharmacists could refuse to dispense PrEP, the morning after pill, or birth control. Right-wing landlords could refuse to rent to unmarried, same-sex, or intra-racial couples. As the Michigan ruling shows, the use of RFRA could justify firing someone for religious reasons.

This twisted use of RFRA could turn back years of civil rights work and not just for LGBT people. The more adept the LGBT political coalitions become in arguing religious freedom issue, the better the chance to defeat the Christian Right in the next chapter.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) provides help to anyone who feels they have been the victim of religious discrimination.

Contact 212-549-2500 or www.aclu.org.

While the ACLU is always available, some religious traditions have their own civil rights organization.

If someone feels that they have been a victim of discrimination against Islam, they should contact the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) 202-488-8787 or www.cair.com.

For information on progressive Islam, visit www.mpvusa.org and bit.ly/2crXIaE. If someone feels they have been a victim of anti-Pagan discrimination, they should contact Lady Liberty League. Email: liberty@circlesanctuary.org , or visit bit.ly/1PdnUU7. They could also contact 608 924-2216, or The Wild Hunt at wildhunt.org/contact.

9.14.2016 •

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POLITICS white house watch

Photos: CNN.

Media Focuses on ‘Deplorable’ Ignores Trump’s Promises to Evangelicals

Lisa Keen

Keen News Service

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emocratic presidential nominee Hillary Manhattan buildings to solicit their support.

Clinton had to back off some remarks He said the pastors clearly wanted to support she made before an LGBT fundraiser him but told him the Johnson Amendment last Friday, but her poor choice of words there prevented them from doing so. He said he is now being overshadowed by reaction to learned that President Lyndon Johnson concerns that she appeared to collapse while had unilaterally created the law to punish a getting into her Secret Service van on Sunday church in Houston with which he was having morning. “problems.”

Meanwhile, there has been little scrutiny “Can you imagine that this man singleof Republican presidential nominee Donald handedly –he was having problems with Trump’s promises to religious conservatives churches and there was a church in Houston Friday. that was giving him a hard time –maybe for “[In] a Trump administration, our Christian good reason—and he put in an amendment heritage will be cherished, protected, that basically stopped our great pastors and defended, like you have never seen before…. ministers and others from talking….”

And that includes religious liberty,” said Trump He repeated calls for repealing and replacing to the Family Research Council’s “Values Voter the Affordable Care Act, promised to bring Summit” in Washington, D.C. forth a “new civil rights agenda for our time,” “Religious liberty” has become a frequent and said he would fight for “family values.” code phrase for many politicos to promote That “civil rights agenda,” he said, is “the right the idea of allowing people the liberty to to a safe community, a great education, and a discriminate against secure job.”

LGBT people by claiming He praised anti-Gay they are exercising their right-wing conservative religious beliefs.

Phyllis Schlafly, who Trump said the endorsed him, as one of Johnson Amendment has the great champions of prevented clergy from family values. Schlafly, speaking from the pulpit who died September 5 about politics. The tax at the age of 92, was best law states that non-profit known for leading the groups can receive a opposition to an Equal 501(3)c (non-profit group) Rights Amendment to - Donald Trump Republican nominee tax break if they do not the constitution. In doing “participate in, or intervene so, she claimed the ERA in (including the publishing or distributing of would lead to allowing gays to teach in schools, statements) any political campaign on behalf marry, and adopt children. Her Eagle Forum (or in opposition to) any candidate for public group was a frequent contributor of legal briefs office.” The purpose of the law was to ensure opposing equal rights for LGBT people. that taxpayer money is not used to subsidize Neither FRC nor the Trump campaign partisan political activity. posted his speech on their websites, but the “I will repeal the Johnson Amendment, if I full address can be watched via a “Right Side am elected your president. I promise,” he told Broadcasting” YouTube post. the audience. The line elicited loud applause But media attention since Friday has even though a president cannot repeal an been riveted only two things: Clinton’s existing federal law. characterization of many Trump supporters as Trump appeared to use a teleprompter “deplorable” and Clinton’s physical health. during most of the speech, but he looked away On Friday night, before an LGBT fundraiser from the teleprompter to add that he had in Manhattan, Clinton said this: learned about the Johnson Amendment from “To just be grossly generalistic, you could put a group of pastors he had invited to one of his half of Trump’s supporters into what I call the

"I will repeal the Johnson Amendment, if I am elected your president.

I promise."

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‘Basket of Deplorables,’ right? The racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic, Islamaphobic –you name it. And unfortunately, there are people like that. And he has lifted them up. He has given voice to their websites –that used to have only 11,000 people, now have 11 million. He tweets and retweets their offensive, hateful, mean-spirited rhetoric.”

“But that other basket of people are people who feel the government has let down, the economy has let them down, nobody cares about them, nobody worries about what happens to their lives and their futures. And they’re just desperate for change.” (An incomplete video of these remarks can be seen at CNN.) Throughout the weekend and into Monday, media reports replayed Clinton’s characterization of some Trump supporters as a “basket of deplorables.” (They did not include her comments about those who feel “let down” and “desperate for change.”) The Trump campaign also seized on the “deplorable” comment.

Trump vice presidential candidate Mike Pence claimed the word was aimed at “Americans, farmers, coal miners, teachers, veterans, and members of our law enforcement community.”

By Saturday, Clinton issued an apology, saying, “I regret saying ‘half’ –that was wrong.”

But she said it is deplorable that Trump has hired, for his campaign chief, a man (Steve Bannon) who heads up a right-wing media site (Breitbart News) that shows support for anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant sentiments. The statement said she “won’t stop calling out bigotry and racist rhetoric in this campaign.”

“I also meant what I said last night about empathy, and the very real challenges we face as a country where so many people have been left out and left behind,” said her statement.

Clinton’s remarks Friday and her apology Saturday have been characterized by some political commentators as potentially as damaging as Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s private fundraiser remarks,

POLITICS white house watch characterizing most of President Obama’s supporters as “47 percent of Americans” who “pay no income tax.”

Then, Clinton was hit Sunday with what appeared to be a near fainting spell as she left a memorial service for 9/11 in New York.

A bystander’s video of her getting into her Secret Service van shows her appearing to almost collapse as aides hold her up and help her into the van. Initially, her campaign said she had become overheated at the event; by nightfall, it said she was suffering from dehydration and pneumonia. And late Sunday night, it announced she would cancel campaign events for Monday in order to recover.

The incident has prompted a constant media review of Clinton’s health ailments – which have included a 2012 fainting spell as Secretary of State, attributed to a stomach virus, which led to a concussion and blood clot. Breitbart News stirred up concern about Clinton’s health last January when it quoted anonymous sources as claiming Clinton’s prolonged bathroom break during a debate was related to the previous concussion. Since then, Trump has been urging that Clinton “doesn’t have the strength and stamina” to serve as president. Trump told Fox News Monday that he thinks “something’s going on” with Clinton’s health and that it will “be an issue.”

The Clinton developments have overshadowed nearly every other important development in the presidential campaign during the past few days, including: • The prospects for Libertarian presidential candidate Gary Johnson taking a major plunge Friday after he appeared to be completely uninformed about the refugee crisis in Aleppo, Syria. (When MSNBC Morning Joe panelist asked Johnson what he would do as president “about Aleppo,” Johnson responded, “What’s Aleppo?”

Aleppo has received a flood of media attention lately because it is the focal point of the Syrian civil war and because Russia recently staged air strikes against the city in support of the Syrian government. Hundreds of thousands of civilians are said to be trapped inside the city and in dire need of food and water.

• Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Kaine spoke to the Human Rights Campaign’s annual Washington, D.C. dinner Saturday night. Kaine said he first felt support for LGBT people while witnessing violence against LGBT demonstrators on his college campus in Missouri. “That was a moment of conscious-raising for me,” said Kaine. “I was changed by it. It made me angry. And it made me even more convinced I wanted to stand up for what is right.” He acknowledged that, as a devout Catholic, he was less supportive of marriage equality at first. But he said he opposed members of the Virginia legislature who sought to amend the state constitution to ban marriage for same-sex couples. Kaine ended by saying “the LGBTQ vote in so many of our battleground states can be the difference between victory and defeat.”

Prior to Clinton’s double stumble last week, gay electoral data guru Nate Silver estimated that Clinton has a 71 percent chance of winning November 8, compared to Trump’s 29 percent. By Monday

afternoon, he changed that to 69 percent to 31 percent. Other media polls suggest the race is tightening, with the lead overall in the polls vacillating between Clinton and Trump.

Hillary Clinton left the 9/11 commemoration ceremony Sunday early after she felt overheated and went to her daughter’s apartment, the Clinton campaign said.

9.14.2016 •

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Convictions Fifteen Years Later

Publisher's Editorial

Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

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ast Sunday, I did something I have never done before. I flew on September 11.

I am a New Yorker, born, bred and raised in Brooklyn, the Catskills Mountains, and Long Island.

I moved to Florida a quarter century before terrorists took down the World Trade Center, but I had friends and colleagues from Hofstra University who lost their lives in the towers on that fateful day.

Here in Florida, I was publishing and had founded the first credible LGBT newspaper focusing on the Broward County gay community- the Express Gay News. I remember the column I wrote that week. It was titled ‘They Blew Up the Place I Called Home.’

Next to my column today, there is a picture of our cover that week. When the murderers struck, they targeted the melting pot that is America. Today, where those buildings fell, a new spire rises, glistening brightly in the daylight sun while illuminating Manhattan at night. It is a powerful beacon of white light pointing directly to the stars.

Where those lives were lost, a breathtakingly beautiful memorial now stands, forever paying tribute to a day few of us will ever forget. But there is the rub, as we sit here in 2016.

Since 9/11, a new generation of Americans has been born and raised. The 17 year old who graduated high school this past June was a one-year-old infant when the towers went down.

For that young person, this is barely a day of recognition, let alone reflection.

How do we make an event like this relevant to young people who were not even born on that day? How do you bring to life the pain and heartache of that day, when, in a matter of hours, 2,984 people lost their lives?

For the gay community, we learned many of the heroes that day were gay men. On the plane brought down in the hills of Pennsylvania, otherwise destined to strike the White House or Capitol Building, we discovered it was a young gay man, Mark Bingham, from San Francisco, who led the charge to intercept the kidnappers.

In New York, we would also learn that the Fire Department’s chaplain, Pastor Mychal Judge, who perished while leading prayers in the South Tower, was also a gay man, albeit a celibate priest.

At the Express Gay News, we would write about the difficulty gay couples had in securing survivor ‘s benefits, because the tragedy occurred in an era when civil unions and domestic partnerships barely had legal recognition or social approval.

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Of course, as in any disaster, con artists and termites came out of the woodwork. In Fort Lauderdale, a deceitful gay man, Patrick Ian Henn, falsely claimed that he lost his partner in the twin towers and bilked the Red Cross for $80,000. But he did not fool me, and he wound up with 5 years in jail. He made national news too, his crooked scam exposed on CNBC’s TV show, American Greed.

However, the losses that day were our nation’s.

Our country- all people, all colors- were targets.

For our generation, it was our day that would live in infamy. For all of us, it was a day that would alter our nation’s course. We would soon all learn more about a group called Al Qaeda and one Osama Bin Laden.

Today, we find ourselves fighting ideologies rather than countries.

Whether it is Pulse in Orlando or San Bernadino in California, a cafe in Paris or an open-air market in Pakistan, citizens of the world are not secure from terror. It’s everywhere and anyplace. Ultimately, that is the residual legacy of 9-11. Our universe is more cautious, our world more scary. But America is resilient, and we are still strong. We bounce back.

It’s the only way.

We may not have all the answers, but this much we know as a nation: we do not let disasters define us.

Standing by the fountains at the memorial plaza in the square that housed the World Trade Center, you realize that gay or straight, black or white, Muslim or Mexican, we are all part of a shared humanity. We want to live and love, laugh and learn.

I was also in Hollywood a few weeks ago, spending six hours in Universal Studios and taking part in their tour. It’s like Disney World, and people congregate in calm, with families, friends, in good fortune and health. So it is in communities and cities across this nation. On beaches or in bars, whether on crowded subways or cheering stadiums throughout this country, America is essentially prosperous and at peace.

Our nation may have problems, but we are more a people of vision than vitriol. That’s why the Republican nominee for president is so vile, so misguided, so wrong. On a daily basis, Donald Trump demonizes democracy. He amplifies divisiveness and voices extremism. Even on the plazas where we memorialize the victims of 9-11 and terror, Americans are optimistic about tomorrow. We think more each day about the new I Phone than ISIS.

The truth is America is strong, and we are growing in tolerance and diversity. We do not need an ethnic cleansing.

Immigrants do not threaten our freedom, ISIS is not on the verge of seizing your city hall, and inner cities may be tough, but they are not ‘war zones.’ Our military is neither a disaster or disgrace, and our generals are not ‘rubble.’ And Barack Obama was far from being the worst president in our nation’s history.

Most Americans wake up each day optimistic about our future; our hearts filled with hope, not fear. Don’t let the caustic and hateful mongering cacophony of the bloated, belligerent, nominee of the Republican party change that for you. He already has done a disservice to us all.

Frankly, if dignity and decency were the barometers, Donald Trump would be exiled, not elected. In his America, you would be. Let him build his next tower in Moscow, not Manhattan.

He and Putin could be lovers, big shots with more bravado and brawn and bullying than brains. Put them both on a horse together and let them each ride off into the sunset. The world would be better off.

Convictions

Editorial Cartoon

By Andy Marlette

FACING CRIMINAL CHARGES? JEFF DEAN

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

DUI Domestic Violence Sex Offenses Drug Charges Miami Office: (305) 777-3595 1200 Brickell Avenue, Suite 1950, Miami, FL 33131 Fort Lauderdale Office: (954) 204-3633 110 SE 6th Street, Suite 1700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 9.14.2016 •

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Jesse’s Journal

Photo:Charles Pratt

Convictions

Sheriff Israel’s LGBT Outreach Unsurpassable Jesse Monteagudo

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he Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) has with some of his north and west Florida come a long way since May 3, 1991, colleagues. when Sheriff Nick Navarro (1985-1993) According to the BSO web site (sheriff. and his deputies raided the gay Copa night org, obviously a biased source), Sheriff Israel club with his wife and visiting dignitaries in “diversified the department, redirected tow.

BSO’s mission to focus on Navarro’s successor, reducing violent crime, Sheriff Ron Cochran (1993keeping kids out of jail and 1997), turned the tide in favor the disadvantaged Though as devoted addressing of the LGBT community. members of our community, to the cause of law including the homeless and Sheriff Ken Jenne (1998-2007) met with representatives mentally ill.” Though not and order as any of GUARD - Gays United without his faults, Sheriff other officer, Sheriff Israel’s leadership earned to Attack Repression and Discrimination - including him a victory in the August Israel is a bona this writer. Sheriff Al 30 primary election against fide progressive in Lamberti (2007-2013) three other Democrats and comparison with continued the BSO’s outreach makes him the favorite to to the LGBT community and, win a second term in the some of his north though a Republican, won November 8 general election. and west Florida the gratitude of some gay The BSO is more than the colleagues.

Democrats who voted for him Sheriff, of course. It is made when he ran for re-election in up of 5,800 employees, 2012. Even so, Lamberti lost including 3,100 deputies to Democrat Scott Israel, the and 600 firefighters. Under Police Chief of North Bay Village.

Sheriff Israel’s leadership, the makeup of the On January 8, 2013, Scott Israel was sworn BSO more closely resembles the community into office as the sixteenth Sheriff of Broward that it was formed to serve. Though Sheriff County. Sheriff Israel is Florida’s first Jewish Israel has been criticized for hiring his sheriff. Though as devoted to the cause of law friends and political allies, he remains and order as any other officer, Sheriff Israel committed to his pledge to employ the best is a bona fide progressive in comparison and the brightest, regardless of race, religion,

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ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation: “Surround yourself with lions who share the same mission,” as he told Daniel Hicks of the Agenda. Sheriff Israel’s LGBT appointments include some of our community’s bestknown activists, including General Counsel Ron Gunzburger, Deputy General Counsel Patricia Windowmaker and Assistant General Counsel Stephen Muffler. To this list we should add some good friends of our community, such as community advocate Patti Lynn. When BSO Detective David Currie married his husband in 2016 he proudly wore his BSO uniform - with the Sheriff’s approval.

Under Sheriff Scott Israel the BSO strengthened its already-existing nondiscrimination policy by requiring department vendors on contracts worth more than $100,000 to provide health coverage for their employees’ same-sex partners and to institute the same kind of workplace diversity policies as the agency they supply.

For LGBT Pride Month 2014, Sheriff Israel issued a proclamation where “we recognize and celebrate the amazing impact

that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals have had on our community. ...

We now openly embrace the multicultural diversity of our community which makes us a better, stronger and more united Broward.”

Sheriff Israel and some of his deputies take part in the annual Stonewall Parade on Wilton Drive and BSO representatives regularly attend LGBT community events, such as the Pride Center’s weekly “Coffee and Conversation.”

This year, the American people’s attention is aimed at the upcoming presidential election. However, we should remember that many “down ballot” races are equally important and, in some cases, even more important. On November 8, Broward Sheriff Scott Israel faces a Republican opponent, retired BSO Sergeant Santiago Vazquez. Unlike 2012, when there were some honest reasons to vote for Sheriff Lamberti, there is no doubt where we stand this year. Vote to re-elect Scott Israel as Sheriff of Broward County.

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.

paid content

Dream With Us

How ‘Gay and Sober Men’ Brings Support, Love and Safety

G

ay and Sober Men is a safe and fun community—and 2017 looks to be their biggest year yet.

In recent years, a question seemed to keep coming up—are special interest gay friendly meetings and LGBT-specific treatment centers relevant or even necessary in society’s current age of progressiveness, tolerance, and acceptance? Marriage equality is now the law of the land and family-friendly companies like Disney even showcase gay and lesbian characters from time to time.

Then came the recent, tragic events in Orlando. And it became clear that now, more than ever, we need to provide a safe, affirming place—as well as events—for people in the LGBT community.

At the Pride Institute, a treatment center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, one can go to rehab in an all-LGBT setting. Thus creating a safe space for absolute, un-edited honesty by its clients and further fostering an atmosphere of recovery. Pride opened its doors in 1986, at the height of the AIDS epidemic. The institute not only addresses client’s drug and alcohol issues, but critical problems that plague the community such as discrimination and homophobia. Surprisingly, Pride is currently the only treatment center of its kind in the United States to offer this kind of immersive experience. However, more and more rehabs across the country offer an LGBT-friendly track to those clients that seek it.

June is national Pride month. Nearly every city has events and activities that celebrate the LGBT community. In New York City— where the modern gay rights movement started—they have a week packed with events, circuit parties, and parades. But along with Pride come lots of opportunities for drinking, partying, and indulgences. The highest admittance time of year at the emergency room of the former St. Vincent’s Hospital in Greenwich Village is not New Year’s Eve, but actually Gay Pride Weekend. Studies even suggest that up to 33% of the LGBTQ+ population have difficulty controlling their alcohol and drug use. That number is even higher in the transgender community.

Taking this into account, a group of sobers from all over the country have decided to mobilize, and have committed to making a difference for the sober or sober curious members of the gay community. What started out as a small private group of sober guys on Facebook in 2009 has mushroomed into the largest recovery group of its kind on social media. Last year, the private Facebook group—known as Gay & Sober Men (GSM)—polled its 6,000 online members, and it was decided that they all wanted to meet one another—in person, in real time! During next year’s Pride weekend, these people will come together to celebrate recovery with the first annual international Gay

Jean Sullivan & Sober Convention, a unique four-day men’s conference in New York City.

The mission, according to Kori, Mathew, and Brandon—Gay & Sober’s nonprofit board members—is borrowed from classic AA literature: “to watch people recover, to see them help others, to watch loneliness vanish, to see a fellowship grow about you, to have a host of friends. We are doing this in the spirit of brotherhood, friendliness, fellowship, and adventure.”

This type of event has been done before, but it was held in Palm Springs and was known as Hot ’n Dry—another men’s only roundup.

This conference is different in that it’s on the east coast and that it welcomes people that are not only in AA. People in NA or CMA will find programming specific to them, and even people that aren’t in “12 step” but just love a sober lifestyle will be welcomed with open arms.

Activities will include health and wellness workshops, big speaker meetings, spiritual growth forums, and dance parties under the Pride fireworks. Thanks to social media and to enthusiastic sober “cheerleaders” from New York to Los Angeles, to London and even Tokyo, hundreds, perhaps thousands of fellows are expected to attend. It’s a big undertaking to financially pull off a conference like this in a city like New York.

It will also take a village to make it a success. But the organizers and volunteers have high hopes. Mathew, from Edmonton, Canada, believes that “enthusiasm is contagious” and he is convinced that using social networking platforms will help get the word out as never before. GSM seems to be doing the right thing and is aware that some may even criticize its efforts. Speaking to that, one of the founding members who came up with the idea of the conference said, “Yes, there will be critics, but we aren’t doing it for the critics. We are doing it for the community.” The team is steadfast in its vision of encouraging unity and enhancing one’s sobriety. Fittingly, the theme for 2017 is “Dream With Us!” Some of the event details are still in development. Most sober conventions and roundups are held at a host hotel where everything happens on property. At GSM, they are using a host hotel in Chelsea, aptly called The Dream.

A sunrise guided meditation could be held in a park on Roosevelt Island or at the observation deck of One World Trade Center—both with inspiring vistas of the city. Several talented performers have also been invited to entertain at the Saturday night banquet meeting and concert near Columbus Circle. To close the weekend of sober events, the conference has several options—one is a float during the annual

Gay Pride march down Fifth Avenue. The other is a dance cruise with two DJs on two floors of the Circle Line Cruise. The floating, rocking dance party will sail down the Hudson, through the harbor to the Statue of Liberty, and the climax of the beautiful evening will be a spectacular show of pride with the a fireworks display—all with the skyline of Manhattan as its backdrop.

This experience is a first time trial run for GSM. But if it all goes well, the possibilities are endless. The conference may even travel from city to city each year. After all is said and done, and in the spirit of giving back, Gay & Sober is putting any surplus revenue to good use by sponsoring up to three people within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender community that are in need of financial aid for inpatient treatment services.

Pride month started off on a very dark note with the Florida tragedy.

But as we can all see, the rainbow colors are brighter and more visible than ever before. People in the LGBT community are coming together, and even sober fellows like the ones at Gay & Sober want to make this world a better, more loving place—because in the end...there is way more good than bad.

On a personal note, being a straight woman in recovery, I have been surrounded by and helped tremendously by sober fellows of the gay community. My numerous stints in rehabs taught me that I have an unhealthy need for male attention. This behavior would lead to a definite relapse if I were to continue it at outside AA meetings. I am fortunate enough to have found true friendship and love within the rooms, particularly from the gay members. For me it’s attraction, not distraction, that keeps me coming back.

The conference dates are June 22nd - 25th, 2017.

More information on volunteering & donating is available at www.gayandsober.org

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Submitted Photo

Lifestyle tony’s talks

Sophie Ellis-Bextor Sings For Orlando It’s Not The Death Of Love Tony Adams

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KEEP YOUR EYES ON

South Florida Gay News

SFGN.com @SoFlaGayNews

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inger/songwriter Sophie Ellis-Bextor, an English chart-topper for 15 years, released a new album on Sept. 2 including a song she wrote for Orlando in the wake of the Pulse nightclub shooting.

She told SFGN, “I joined the crowd of thousands who gathered in London’s gay neighborhood Soho for the vigil after the shooting. The London Gay Men’s chorus sang and balloons were released. It was hard to comprehend what had happened. It seemed that our whole world usually so busy and noisy came to a standstill to remember and honor the victims. Even though the song I wrote about it for my new album “Familia” is called “Death of Love,” its message is that love does not die. The sum of your life will always be who you love and who loves you.”

Ellis-Bextor who is raising her young children – she was pregnant while making “Familia” - in a city that is reasonably tolerant and inclusive, knows that her children are not insulated from terrible realities elsewhere.

She said, “My oldest son is twelve, so I can have a chat with him about things like this.

I had to explain Orlando to him, telling him that not everyone is loving of others, and that some people are capable of evil. He may have little or no experience of it in his own home and neighborhood, but he will know that it does exist, and it must be part of what he learns about the world.”

Although her earliest popularity was in disco, Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s music continues to evolve, fearlessly adopting different styles. She said she is never sure what she will deliver next.

“I am not good at planning the music I will make, and that keeps the music exciting.

For me, the pleasure of writing music is not analyzing where I am going. It’s more like throwing seeds in the garden. I am never quite sure what will spring up or what it will look like. “Familia” is quite different from my previous album “Wanderlust.” The earlier one was more folksy. This one is much more sunny. I think of the relationship between the two a bit like when you have children.

The first child is generally a little more responsible and serious, and then the next one comes along and they’re more bolshy and extrovert. Same family, but they’ve got different traits.”

The songs on “Familia” are lush. In addition to the heartfelt “Death of Love,” the album includes a gorgeous love song “Here Comes The Rapture,” a classic and danceable “Wild Forever” that shouts “Remix!” and the enchanting “Hush Little Voices.” (Take note, Madonna, the song “Come With Us” distills everything wonderful in your own music.)

Overall, “Familia” makes us wonder why we have not seen more of Sophie Ellis-Bextor in the USA. She said, “I performed at New York City Pride a few years back with the Freemasons.

I’ve been to Florida on holiday and I’d love to return.”

She performed in England at Manchester Pride this summer, and has two London shows scheduled for September. While hoping she will find time for a Florida show, listen to her new album “Familia.”

Submitted photo.

outeats Special Advertising Section

Sabores Cuban & Latin Cuisine

Dori Zinn

The restaurant is only five months old and sits on the west end of a strip mall on Commercial Blvd. It’s hidden, sandwiched in between a gym and a gas station. Maybe you notice the Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill when you drive by. You probably never see it, but you should.

Sabores Cuban & Latin Cuisine is serving up some of the most authentic Latin food in Fort Lauderdale. When you arrive for dinner, try to make it on a Wednesday or Thursday for the 2-for-$3.99 house-made margaritas and sangrias. Or maybe stop by on a Saturday for 5 for $18 beers and karaoke. But no matter what day of the week you get your Cuban craving, the Bandeja Fuego will be there.

The $20 sampler includes a tamal with roast pork, fried chicken chunks, two different kinds of Croquetas, chicken and beef empanadas, Yuca fries, long strips of fried plantains and chunks of sweet plantains. You will not be able to eat this by yourself. It will definitely feed you, a friend, and leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch. This alone is worth a visit.

Other appetizers, like Sabores nachos ($11) and Cuban turnovers ($2 each), are fan favorites, too.

But if you want to jump straight into a meal, you must absolutely get the Churrasco ($18): a thin, long piece of skirt steak served with homemade chimichurri sauce. Vaca Frita ($11), fried flank steak with sautéed onions, is another delicious choice. Pork chunks ($11) — deep fried and topped with mojo juice and sautéed onions — should be near the top of the list, too.

The Mexican entrees shouldn’t be ignored, though. Any type of fajita you want, from veggies to a combination of chicken, steak, and shrimp are all highly recommended ($11-$17). All the variations of Al Carbon are delicious: tacos, burritos, and especially the Chimichanga ($14): a large four tortilla rolled up and stuffed with chicken or steak, deep-friend and topped with Ranchera sauce and melted cheese. All Mexican entrees come with rice, beans, and sour cream.

Of course, classic sandwiches like the Cuban ($8) are available all day long. Try the Sabores sandwich ($10): ham, Swiss cheese, bacon, lettuce, and tomato all stuffed into Cuban bread.

If you can’t make it for dinner, you can go any day of the week during lunch for a dozen different daytime specials served until 3 p.m.

Your favorites like Ropa Vieja ($8), Enchiladas ($8), and Churrasco ($13) come in smaller, yet still quite filling, servings. Early bird, from 3-6 p.m., and a kids menu, are also available.

Be sure to save room for dessert. Classics like Flan ($5) and Tres Leches ($5) are solid options, but others like guava with cream cheese ($4) and chocolate cake ($5) shouldn’t be ignored. You can add ice cream to any dessert for $1.

Of course, classic Cuban coffee drinks are offered any time of the day. Get a Café con Leche ($2.60) or Cortadito ($1.90) to go with any of your delicious, homemade dessert choices.

No matter when you go or what you get, you’ll never forget your meal at Sabores Cuban & Latin Cuisine. Your drive down Commercial Blvd. will never be the same.

20% OFF lunch or dinner entree (must present ad, expires Oct. 31, 2016)

Margarita specials: Wed - Thus 2 for $3.99!

Fri - Tues 2 for $7.99!

If You Go:

Sabores Cuban & Latin Cuisine 1417 E Commercial Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 954-351-7754

Mon-Thurs: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Fri-Sat: 11 a.m. - midnight Sunday: Noon-10 p.m.

1417 East Commercial Blvd @saboreslatinrestaurant Sabores Cuban and Latin Restaurant 9.14.2016 •

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lifestyle food

Submitted photos.

Kuro

Kuro

Rick Karlin

Kuro

1 Seminole Way Fort Lauderdale 954-585-5333 SeminoleHardRockHollywood.com

L

et’s face it; the Hard Rock Casino is not exactly known as a dining destination.

Your options there include snack food chains (Ben & Jerry’s, Wetzel’s Pretzels, Kilwin’s) or the Hard Rock Café, where the best thing on the menu is the apps combo (wings, rings, chicken tenders, spring rolls and bruschetta) which are just there to soak up the alcohol. And the less said about the limited menu available poolside, at The Beach Club (a few apps, salads and a trio of sandwiches) the better. That’s okay, you go to Hard Rock to gamble or see a show, right?

If that’s your mind set, you are missing out on one of the finest dining experiences in South Florida. Kuro, the high-end Japanese restaurant at Hard Rock, features contemporary artisanal dishes using locally sourced as well as ingredients imported from Japan. Chef Alex Becker has created a menu featuring bold and complex flavors that are harmonious. As is the trend now, the menu forgoes the usual division of courses and offers tasting portions, designed with sharing in mind. What many restaurateurs hope you won’t notice when they offer individually

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priced tasting portions is how the bill can climb to astronomical heights. However, if you can afford it, the expense is justified at Kuro. Our recent dinner featured one cocktail, two glasses of wine, eight shared dishes and a trio of desserts and the bill was $238.50, and that’s before tip!

Unless you’re part of the 1 percent, a meal at Kuro is most likely going to be a special occasion place. I can almost guarantee you that, no matter how special, Kuro will match the occasion, if you order judiciously. Start with one of the really cool cocktails. If that’s not for you, the restaurant serves craft beers, Japanese whiskeys, shōchū, 30 brands of sake and wine from 110 vineyards.

We ordered the edamame salad, but were served a bowl of black edamame dusted with sea salt. It was delicious, but $15 for a bowl of edamame? I was thinking, “This is going to be one over-priced evening.”

But then, the tuna on crispy rice arrived at our table and it showed me exactly what Kuro is all about. Incredibly high-grade tuna tartare, piled high on a square of light-as-air puffed rice. OMG!

From the tempura section of the menu, we opted for two unusual dishes. Corn is not an ingredient you think of with Asian fare, but kakiage, a sort of giant corn fritter, makes itself at home on this disparate menu. In fact, it was my favorite dish of the night. We also tried the king crab tempura. Unfortunately, this was the least successful dish of the night. The batter was a little thick and heavy and the butter “snow” (a bit of molecular gastronomy) completely overwhelmed the crab. Surprisingly, I was underwhelmed by the sushi, sashimi and maki rolls. There’s only so much you can do to make these rolls special. Yes, the fish was incredibly fresh, but then all sushi should be.

I was so looking forward to the uni pasta, but a shortage of uni made it unavailable.

Just the thought of soba noodles, uni and osetra caviar, was making me salivate. The lobster shiso, which arrived next, more than made up for that disappointment. Perfectly cooked lobster is removed from the shell, cut into bite-sized portions then replaced and plated beautifully. A hint of wasabi flavors the cream sauce that accompanies this dish. Koji Lamb, one of the few meat dishes we tried (carnivores, don’t worry, there’s plenty of options for you here-the seafood options just appealed to us more) was perfectly medium rare, but the blueberry demi-glace was overly sweet and the meat was a little tough.

Many Japanese places serve up a dish of green tea ice cream or mochi. Kuro rocks desserts! We couldn’t choose just two, so

we didn’t! Three desserts for two people?

Why not? And each one was a winner! If you like chocolate, the choco-hazelnut bar is a layered log of goodness, combining a rich mousse, crisp cookie and crunchy nuts!

Apple Tobanyaki combines tender slices of apple with rich ice cream and a crumble base that is to die for. But, the star of the dessert menu is the unassumingly named “Japanese Doughnuts.” Kuro’s version is more like an Italian zeppole than the ring shaped American version. The dough inside was flaky and light, the outside crispy and coated with sugar and five spice seasoning. Dulce de leche and chocolate dipping sauces added just the right touch.

The massive and beautifully decorated dining room manages to maintain an energetic buzz without becoming overwhelming. Kuro follows the practice of a waiter who takes your order, while other staff (usually called back-waiters or runners) actually deliver the food to your table. I’ve never been a fan of this practice because invariably the wrong items are delivered to tables, and that proved to be the case here. It also means that no one person is watching your table, and we had empty, dirty plates sitting on our table for far too long.

If Kuro sounds great, but it is just beyond your budget, stop by for lunch. The menu is at tad limited when compared to dinner, but the noodle, tempura and rice entrees average about $15, and you still get that top level décor, views and food.

But then, the tuna on crispy rice arrived at our table and it showed me exactly what Kuro is all about. Incredibly high-grade tuna tartare, piled high on a square of light-as-air puffed rice. OMG!

“We offer high quality fresh food complete with a variety of local delights like Cuban sandwiches, homemade barbeque ribs and fresh conch!”

15% off ANY purchase

(must present ad, cannot combine with other specials) Expires Oct. 9, 2016

Wednesday PRIDE DAY special 1st drink free with purchase of entree

3301 NE 3rd Ave. Oakland Park, 954-766-4294

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SFGNITES

W E E K

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s e p te m b er

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s e p te m b er

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J.W. Arnold

jw@prdconline.com

THU

9/15

Exhibit The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, 2051 S. Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach, features a new exhibit, “Botanicals, Antique Engravings and Lithographs,” a collection of rare prints and handmade mahogany, tortoise shell and gold leaf frames dating from the 1500s through 1800s.

The two-acre sanctuary showcases rare palms, sculptures and Norton’s own studio. Admission is $14. More information at ANSG.org.

FRI

9/16

film Academy Award-winning director Ron Howard’s “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years” tells a story of the band’s heyday, performing more than 800 times between 1962 and 1966. In addition to interviews with Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, the film includes 4K digitally restored and remastered sound. At Coral Gables Art Cinema, 260 Aragon Ave., through Sept. 22. Tickets at GablesCinema.com.

European heartthrobs Il Divo return to South Florida on Tuesday for one performance the Fillmore Miami Beach.

Photo Credit: IlDivo.com.

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9/17 SUN

9/18 MON

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theater

cars

television

concert

Micro Theater Miami offers a unique experience: Seven short plays (just 15 minutes each) performed six times a night in seven converted shipping containers in downtown Miami. Each container holds an audience of 15, offering a personal and intimate theater experience. The plays change up every few weeks.

Individual plays are just $5 each at the door. For more information, go to MicroTheaterMiami.com.

Today is your last opportunity to see the latest and greatest in new automobiles, sport utility vehicles and trucks at the Miami International Auto Show at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Check out the Topless in Miami display of convertibles and Havana Classics, a nostalgic exhibition of ‘50s classics.

Open most days 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Admission is $15 for adults. More information at MiamiAutoShow.net.

The fall television season kicks off tonight in a big way with the season premieres of “The Voice” (NBC), “Gotham” and “Lucifer” (Fox) and “The Big Bang Theory” (CBS).

Also on CBS, Kevin James (“King of Queens”) returns with the debut of his new sitcom, “Kevin Can Wait.”

Later in the week, catch “Designated Survivor,” starring Kiefer Sutherland on Thursday. Check local listings for channels and show times.

Get the defibrillator ready because Il Divo, the incredibly handsome European operatic quartet, is returning to Miami Beach’s Fillmore tonight at 8 p.m. on their “Amor & Pasion” tour.

Hearts are guaranteed to stop as they perform their signature crossover repertoire of classical and popular hits. And, let’s face it, any song sounds sexier when it’s performed in Italian.

Tickets start at $59.50 at FillmoreMB. com.

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A&E music

Idol’s David Hernandez Comes Out, and It’s Beautiful David-Elijah Nahmod

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"In a way I find it my responsibility to tell my story because there are other kids out there that might think its not OK to be yourself because you won't be successful."

- David Hernandez

hough he didn’t win, 33-year-old “American Idol” finalist David Hernandez is parlaying his TV fame into a successful singing career.

Blessed with a beautiful singing voice and beautiful looks, Hernandez, who recently came out, spoke to us about his music, why coming out was important to him, and about other aspects of his life.

A native of Phoenix, Hernandez cites artists such as Peabo Bryson, Alicia Keys and Stevie Wonder among his greatest musical influences. He also includes John Legend and Adam Levine on that list, and was thrilled to have shared the stage with them at an inaugural ball for President Barack Obama-he was invited to perform at the ball by TV legend Norman Lear (“All in the Family”, “The Jeffersons”, “Maude”).

“It was really cool to be part of that turn in history and to be able to celebrate and be on the right side of it” Hernandez said. “It was also incredible to sing next to two of my favorite artists, John Legend and Adam Levine.”

Hernandez expressed a great deal of fondness for TV talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, whose historic coming out in 1997 is credited with shifting society’s views on LGBT people and equality.

“Ellen is super-nice and genuine,” he said.

“Meeting her and her wife Portia and their dogs was really great!”

It was on “The Ellen Show” that Hernandez came clean about his R rated past. After he passed the Idol auditions, he was outed as a former stripper.

“I was 21-23,” Hernandez recalled of his dancing days. “It was a means to an end. I needed work. The manager of the club where I danced was paid $200

by Entertainment Tonight. The way it was presented, it seemed like I was trying to be sketchy--I wasn’t. It was never a shock to Idol, it had all been disclosed.”

But Hernandez has no regrets. “People always try to tear you down,” he said. “But I’m having the last laugh because things are going really great.”

Hernandez has since used his celebrity to advocate for equality and LGBT youth and has performed at a number or Pride events. “I work closely with HRC,” he said. “I’ve performed at around 15-20 dinners for them. They’re a great organization that fights for equal rights.”

Yet even as he supported the LGBT community, Hernandez remained in the closet until recently. He explains why.

“I had a different team behind me that was not on board with who David Hernandez was,” he said.

“I was eager and had been working for many many years at this career, so I was willing to let them make decisions for me, whether good or bad.”

The singer reminds us that in spite of how much things have changed, not everyone has evolved.

“I started my career at a very early age when times were extremely different and while times changed, unfortunately the frame of mind of those executives did not,” Hernandez explains. “In a way I find it my responsibility to tell my story because there are other kids out there that might think its not OK to be yourself because you won’t be successful.”

That story includes battles with depression and low self-esteem.

“I was the little kid who liked choir and theater,” he said. “Growing up in a Mexican-American family those interests were feminine and looked down upon. I was called a faggot and a sissy so many times because I didn’t have an interest in sports like the other boys did. I felt a lot of pressure. Kids would follow me home and try to beat me up. I felt like something was wrong with me.”

Since coming out, Hernandez’ life has been everything he’s wanted it to be. “I am doing really well,” he said. “I definitely need my alone time to clear my head from the day. I sometimes meditate and I always take the time to reflect on why I am feeling the way I feel at that particular moment.”

Hernandez added that coming out ended up being good for his career. “So far the response has been nothing but positive,” he said. “It’s amazing how many doors open when you live in your own truth-for a lot of years I was told by labels and executives that this would hurt my career. There were photo shoots that had me posed next to naked girls and Ferraris that portrayed someone I was not. Ultimately I wasn’t happy and that music didn’t go anywhere.”

But now he’s making new music--Hernandez’ new single “Beautiful” is up at YouTube.

“It is definitely soul and R&B influenced,” he said.

“My voice will always have that influence. It is also very top 40--catchy lyrics and memorable melodies.

It is still evolving into its own unique sound and as I grow, it grows with me.”

R&B greats such as Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Alicia Keys continue to influence Hernandez’ sound. “Beautiful” is an upbeat, uplifting song that when I first heard it, I fell in love with it,” he said.

An album will follow. “I am still working on the full length album as we speak,” he promises. “And there will definitely be another tour when this new album is all done. I just wanted to give my fans something to hear in the meantime.”

Hernandez wants kids--and adults--to know that they are not alone. “Love yourself and be who you are unapologetically,” he said. “If you are going through dark times, I promise you will get through.

Hurting yourself or others is never the way to solve your issues and there is always help out there, you just have to ask.”

David Hernandez, “Beautiful”: http://bit.ly/2cTX9Ym

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WORLD PREMIERE New Musical Drama based on the life of Matthew Shepard

Not in My Town

by Michael W. Ross

Broward Performing Arts Center Amaturo Theater

201 SW 5th Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312 Directed & designed by Ardean Landhuis

FULL ORCHESTRA Conducted by Gordon Roberts

September 30 at 8 PM & October 1 at 8 PM For info & tickets

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FULL PRODUCTION

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A&E art

Exhibits Explore Religion, Immigration J.W. Arnold

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eligion and politics are generally not considered safe topics for polite conversation, but two new art exhibits opening this week will force viewers to confront prejudices about their faith and immigration.

“Losing My Religion,” on display beginning Sept 17 at House of Art, 815 NE 13th St. #4 in Fort Lauderdale, is a group show featuring works by five local LGBT artists.

“The show was mounted with the understanding it will be controversial,” explained gallery director Frank Polanco. “Controversy will hinder our lives for years to come in issues such as politics and economics, religion, LGBT and abortion rights, environmental issues and the list goes on. Religion may be a bit more touchy for some as it is the outlet often used in search of ‘salvation,’ peace, love, unity and a place to implore for a better world.”

José Tomas Valdivieso, a 35-year-old Chilean painter and illustrator who currently lives in Wynwood, grew up in the Roman Catholic Church. Valdivieso became alarmed with sexual abuse and arms trafficking in his native country, as well as complacency with the military dictatorship.

“The strongest discrepancy, by far, was the alienation and discrimination of homosexuals. I cannot be a member of an organization that discriminates against me,” he said, although he admitted some LGBT people may be able to find reconciliation. “But, in my case, it’s absolutely impossible.”

Painter David Rohn also grew up in the Catholic Church and noted that western religion is a “hierarchical, rule-based belief system... a sociopolitical tool to keep people in line, which is, I think, why the whole construct of guilt and punishment were incorporated in these religions.”

The former New Yorker praised Eastern religions for promoting ethical behavior that enhances the individual spirit: “It’s not about societal laws, it’s about personal spiritual expansion.”

Rohn also pointed out the sexual expression and erotic symbolism frequently found in religious art, “sexual expression can’t be erased, not even from socalled religious imagery,” he said.

Byron Keith Byrd drew on the infamous protests of the Westboro Baptist Church for one of his works, “God Hates Fags.”

“Just imagine how different it would be had Leviticus 20:13 been omitted (from the Bible),” Byrd asked. “One should be aware that scripture has been written and re-written throughout the ages.”

His paintings and multimedia works comment on organized religion in many ways. One work, “The Trap,” is a cross, constructed of spring-loaded mouse traps ready to snap closed. Other works draw

attention to the role of money in the church.

“My goal is for people to walk out the door with a slightly different perception of religion,” Byrd said. “For example, most individuals practice in the very same manner as their parents. Rarely does one question whether there is an alternative for spiritual growth.”

On Sept. 22, just days before the first presidential debate, a new exhibition of 30 pen and ink portraits by Jose Alvarez, “Krome,” will open at the Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real.

The drawings, along with recorded personal stories, were collected inside the Krome Detention Center in Miami while Alvarez was himself held along with hundreds of other hopeful immigrants from Eastern Europe, West Africa and throughout Central and South America.

Their stories, told to Alvarez as he sketched inside Krome’s minimum security holding cell, are rife with horrors and heartbreak, according to museum curators. “By pairing their faces with their stories, ‘Krome’ removes the cold anonymity of statistics from this conversation about nationality and belonging, race and rights,” described notes on the exhibit.

“I was inspired by their stories. I was very moved by the colossal effort that all of these people mustered to come to this country with dreams and hopes of a better life, of escaping persecution, poverty, political unrest, etc., and the promise of a better tomorrow,” said Alvarez. “Ironically, a lot of them suffer horrific consequences in the process…and then, after all that effort, they are rounded up, incarcerated and treated as statistics or political opportunism without acknowledgement of the human tragedy involved.”

Alvarez, the longtime partner of famed stage magician James “The Amazing” Randi and a resident of Plantation, had lived illegally in the U.S. for many years before himself being detained.

“Krome became a very difficult passage in my life,” he recalled.

When his gallerist pointed out that many famous artists had endured incarceration at some point in their careers, Alvarez’s perspective changed and he recognized an opportunity.

“I was on a mission. I needed to tell their stories.

I was going to give voice to the voiceless, in other words: art as salvation,” he said.

In a politically charged election season in which immigration is a major issue, Alvarez hopes viewers will discover compassion, “the need to mobilize ourselves outside of our comfort zone and put ourselves in their shoes, to acknowledge their presences as human beings and not just as an inconvenience.”

To learn more about “Losing My Religion,” go to HouseOfArt. com, and for “Jose Alvarez: Krome,” go to BocaMuseum.org.

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Portraits by Jose Alvarez are among the works by LGBT artists featured in two provocative exhibits opening soon in South Florida. Submitted photo.

A&E theater

Don’t Be Deceived by New Disney ‘Play’ J. W. Arnold

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taged play readings have become popular in South Florida, thanks to the success of the Jan McArt New Play Reading Series at Lynn University in Boca Raton and the Theatre League’s summer festival of weekly readings.

But, make no mistakes, Lucas Hnath’s “A Public Reading of an Unproduced Screenplay About the Death of Walt Disney,” is not a work in progress and Thinking Cap Theatre’s production, opening this weekend, is not a staged reading.

“It’s a full blown production,” promised director Mark Duncan. “One of our concerns is the name might turn somebody off who thinks it’s just a reading.”

It’s perhaps no accident that Hnath, whom Duncan regards as one of hottest young playwrights today, chose the iconic animator and filmmaker as a subject. The 37-year-old grew up in Orlando.

In Hnath’s “darkly comic” examination of ego, Disney gathers together his brother

Roy, daughter and son-in-law to read them his latest screenplay.

“He’s trying to write the ending of his own story,” explained Duncan, “and battling against forces to make sure it goes his way. But, throughout the play, you start to see things that don’t fit and he tries to cut them out. It’s the struggle of writing your own legacy.”

Hnath portrays Disney as a sort of King Lear. His struggles and how his decisions and inability to control the circumstances around him affect the entire family.

Sound a little complicated? Don’t forget that the play starts out with actors reading the play about Disney writing a screenplay about the end of his life. Throughout, the actors morph into their roles and back in scenes laced with Hnath’s quirky and suggestive dialogue. At times, Hnath’s writing is reminiscent of Shakespeare and then David Mamet and then Harold Pinter.

“He’s gotten the reputation for making it hard on the actors and director. He gives

A “play within a play” opening at Thinking Cap Theatre imagines Walt Disney’s last days.

Submitted photo.

them a puzzle to be figured out. He starts with the words, but that’s the trap. There are no stage directions,” said Duncan.

He is also quick to remind audiences that the scripts the actors carry around are just props.

The company includes four accomplished

actors: Peter Galman as Walt Disney; Jim Gibbons as Roy Disney; Gretchen Porro as Diane Disney Miller; and Alex Alvarez as sonin-law Ron Miller.

“It’s a Thinking Cap kind of piece, that’s for sure,” Duncan said.

Thinking Cap Theatre presents Lucas Hnath’s “A Public Reading of an Unproduced Screenplay About the Death of Walt Disney,” Sept. 16 – Oct. 2. Performances Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 5 p.m. Tickets are $35 at ThinkingCapTheatre.com.

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community announcement

Wilton Manors Candidates Forum Scheduled

Film Icon Keeps It Classy in Tab Hunter Confidential David-Elijah Nahmod

SFGN Staff

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candidate forum for the Wilton Manors mayoral and commission races is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 7 p.m. at Hagen Park. The mayoral candidates are Mayor Gary Resnick and Boyd Corbin. The mayor is elected to a two-year term. Resnick, an attorney, has held the seat since 2008.

He was recently endorsed by the South Florida LGBT organization SAVE. Corbin ran for the mayor’s office in 2014, finishing a distant third to Resnick and Doug Blevins. Corbin is campaigning largely on his opposition to narrowing Wilton Drive.

Competing for the two commission seats are Commissioner Julie Carson, Commissioner Tom Green, former Wilton Manors Businesses Association President Celeste Ellich and Central Area Neighborhood Association President Paul Rolli.

A&E dvd

Photo: Facebook

ow 85 years old, Tab Hunter is living the life he’s always dreamed of. He and Allan Glaser, his partner of 33 years, share a home in Central California where Hunter – a top box office star of the 1950s – raises horses.

Hunter was the top billed star of many hit films. He also enjoyed a successful recording career--millions swooned at the mere mention of his name. In the 1980s he staged an unlikely comeback after co-starring with legendary drag queen Divine in John Waters’ “Polyester.” Many people assume that “Polyester” served as Hunter’s official coming out, but Hunter continued, for many more years, to keep his private life private.

Hunter, born Arthur Gelien in 1931, was a man with a secret. At a time when coming out would have meant career suicide, Hunter lived deep in the closet. It wasn’t until the publication of his 2005 autobiography “Tab Hunter Confidential: The Making of a Movie Star,” that Hunter publicly came out as a gay man.

Even today, as an out gay man, Hunter chooses his words carefully. In the acclaimed documentary “Tab Hunter Confidential,” newly out on DVD, Hunter recalls the film industry he remembers. It was a Hollywood, which forced him to go out on a fake “date” with fellow movie star Natalie Wood. Wags at the time coined the phrase “Natalie Would but Tab Wouldn’t.”

Hunter also speaks eloquently about some of his most painful memories: an estranged father who refused to speak to him, his mom’s battle with mental illness, and the death of his brother in Vietnam.

“That was tough,” Hunter said, speaking to SFGN by telephone. He was referring not only to his decision to have his beloved mom committed, but also to going public about it. He explained his reasons for revealing something so deeply personal.

“Compassion and understanding are important,” he said. “People are very quick to criticize what they don’t know.”

He said he has no regrets about his film career, or about his decision to walk away from it. “I loved the Hollywood hoopla,” he said. “But sometimes you have to pull back.

It’s like you can’t have too much chocolate cake.”

When he was in Hollywood, the pressure to conform – to date women and to present a

Producer Allan Glaser & Tab Hunter at Dallas premiere with the film's poster.

Photo: RaveUn2Mike, Wikipedia.

“wholesome” image, was enormous. As “Tab Hunter Confidential” illustrates, Hunter was the subject of many tabloid rumors and innuendos. Undaunted, Hunter pursued his craft, which he took quite seriously. He studied with Jeff Corey, a top acting teacher of the era who’s students included many of the period’s biggest stars.

“It was so wonderful to study with such top people,” he said, adding that he had no interest in making a late in life comeback.

“What’s the point?” he asks. “I’ve done that. I have two lovely horses that I love to take care of and take to shows.”

We wondered if Hunter had any thoughts on the changes in society he’s lived to see, such as the nationwide legalization of gay marriage. “I’ve never confronted anything like that,” he replied. “Things are so ‘in your face’ these days, which is not my comfort zone. If someone wants to get married, that’s their choice. Make the best choice you can and keep it simple.”

Now back in the spotlight as “Tab Hunter Confidential” garners acclaim on the film festival circuit and begins to sell via digital media, Hunter has no regrets about going public with his very personal tale.

“I’m thankful it’s been well received,” he said of the film. “I’ve gotten letters from all over the world – it’s very touching. I’m thankful but I’m keeping it simple. I spent this morning with my yearling – that’s where I’m the happiest.”

"Tab Hunter Confidential" is now available on DVD. Hunter's book remains available at Amazon.

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sept 14 to sept 20

Datebook

Theater Christiana Lilly

Calendar@SFGN.com

Top

Picks

Mel Schwartz Sleeps with Mae West

Sept. 15 to 18 at Andrews Living Arts Studio, 23 NW Fifth St. in Fort Lauderdale.

A man discovers that his mistress used to be a man, and that she’s the long-lost child of his best friend in this topsy turvy comedy. Tickets $30. Call 845-598-2850 or visit MelSleepsWithMaeWest.com

Divas on Stage

Sept. 17 at 8 p.m. at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. in Lake Worth. Candy Van Sparkles, Melissa St. John, Lupita Hollywood, and Rianna Petrone take to the stage in this preseason fundraising event.

Tickets $15. Call 561-296-9382 or visit LakeWorthPlayhouse. org.

Kanye West

Sept. 16 and 17 at 8 p.m. at the AmericanAirlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami.

With 22 Grammy Awards under his belt, West’s Saint Pablo tour is one of the most highly anticipated in the rap game. Tickets $25.50 to $156.

Call (786) 777-1000 or visit AAArenacom.

broward county Jake Shimabukuro

Fall Follies

Sept. 17 at 8 p.m. at NSU Art Museum, One E. Las Olas Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale.

A fundraiser show in honors of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus 30th anniversary with music from “Red Hot Mamas and Belters.” Tickets $40. Call or visit 954-832-0060 or visit TheFortLauderdaleGaymensChorus.org.

* Dariush

Sept. 17 at 9 p.m. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. The Persian musical legend has a nearly three-hour show in store for guests. Tickets $66.50 to $251.50. Call 954-462-0222 or visit ParkerPlayhouse.com.

* Legends of Rock in Concert

Sept. 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. One night, four amazing acts: Jefferson Starship, Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad, Rick Derringer, and Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels. Tickets $25 to $155. Call or visit 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

9 .14.2016

Sept. 16 at 8 p.m. at the Fillmore Miami Beach, 1700 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. Sexy, chiseled men from Down Under bring to life all your Magic Mike fantasies in a fun night out. Tickets $43.75 to $63.75. Call 305-673-7300 or visit FillmoreMB.com.

* Il Divo: Amor & Pasion

Sept. 20 at 8 p.m. at the Fillmore Miami Beach, 1700 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. A mix of the Three Tenors and Andrea Bocelli for a modern sound. Tickets $59.50 to $125. Call 305-673-7300 or visit FillmoreMB.com.

* James Bay

Sept. 21 at 8 p.m. at the Fillmore Miami Beach, 1700 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. In his first year, Bay has received accolades in the United States and the UK. Tickets $29.50 to $45.50. Call 305-673-7300 or visit FillmoreMB.com.

of

the

Pink

Through Sept. 24 at the Miami Theater Center, 9806 NE Second Ave. in Miami Shores. In this theatrical circus of a show, a young elephant goes on a journey and discovers how diverse the world is. Tickets $15 to $25. Call 305-751-9550 or visit MTCMiami.org.

PAMM Outdoor Music Series

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

The Big Show

Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. at Just the Funny Theater, 3119 Coral Way in Miami.

A collection of comedy mixing the likes of improvisation and sketches. Tickets $12.

Call 305-693-8669 or visit JustTheFunny. com.

* Mel Schwartz Sleeps with Mae West

Sept. 22 to Oct. 2 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Drive in Fort Lauderdale. A man discovers that his mistress used to be a man, and that she’s the long-long child of his best friend in this topsy turvy comedy.

Tickets $30. Call 845-598-2850 or visit MelSleepsWithMaeWest.com

Friday Night Sound Waves Music Series

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

palm beach county 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.

* Denotes New Listing

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* Australia’s Thunder From Down Under

The Legend Elephant

Free Friday Concerts

Sept. 14 at 8 p.m. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. Shimabukuro has been considered the Jimi Hendrix, Van Halen, and Yo Yo Ma of ukelele. Tickets $17.50 to $47.50. Call 954-462-0222 or visit ParkerPlayhouse.com.

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miami-dade county

#OrlandoUnited: Every week, SFGN will pay tribute to one member of our community who was lost in Orlando.

BUSINESS spotlight

Relax In Style At iPic Phoot: Facebook

John McDonald

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ow would you like to watch a movie in a relaxing atmosphere? In South Florida, iPic is a great start.

With locations in Boca Raton and North Miami, iPic offers an innovate approach to movie watching.

Recently, my husband and I attended a showing of “Ben-Hur” at the North Miami Beach (3701 N.E. 163rd Street) location.

We got the VIP experience.

Before the chariot races commenced we ordered food and drinks from our friendly waiter. The eats came quickly and then we kicked back in large, leather reclining chairs and enjoyed the movie.

For those who might get a tad chilly inside an air-conditioned venue, iPic offers blankets and pillows to warm you up. The sound quality was amazing and the projection flawless.

As for “Ben-Hur,” I enjoyed the story of freedom, redemption and a friendship restored through struggle. This is no Charlton Heston epic -- which won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture in 1959 -- but it does have its moments.

One of those is Andra Day’s “The Only Way Out” -- a powerfully moving ballad.

Back to the iPic experience, outside of the

theater there are chicly styled bar areas for you to meet friends for a cocktail before the flick. In Boca Raton (301 Plaza Real), Tanzy Restaurant, a garden themed Italian restaurant, is a nice complement to the theater. A stroll around Mizner Park before or after your movie is another reason why iPic is a destination entertainment option.

You can sign up for memberships or make reservations at www.ipictheaters.com

Sept. 22nd 7pm-10pm Jungle Island Get ready for your host Julie Goldman from BRAVO & LOGO TV.

Tickets at PinkFlamingoAwards.com Rolly Villaverde

Dmitry Zhitov

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porn pulse

Adult Star Introduces Trans Man Toy Hunter Houston

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re you ready to Buck-Off? If so, Buck Angel has the tool for you.

Angel is a trans man adult entertainer.

His public relations team reports Angel’s “mission is to alleviate gender dysphoria in trans men.”

Buck-Off is one of the steps. At last month’s His 2008 performance in “Buckback Adult Novelty Manufacturers Expo in Burbank, California, Angel unveiled Buck-Off, a sex toy Mountain” was nominated for Best Alternative specifically designed for FTM (female-to-male) Release” and “Best Specialty Release” at the GayVN Awards. trans men.

In recent years, Angel has transitioned to a “Has great suction. Works amazing,” says sex educator role, contributing to projects such Angel in a video demonstration.

Also known as a “stroker,” the Buck-Off as Dan Savage’s “It Gets Better” and speaking is made of ultra soft SilaSkin and retails for about identity politics and gender fluidity.

“When I learned to connect with my vagina $29.95.

“Loving your new body is what it’s all about,” and learned how to love it, it changed my life for the better in so many ways. So many men Angel says.

An award winning adult entertainer, Angel like me have told me that they can’t connect began his career using the moniker “The Man sexually with their bodies or they don’t even With a Pussy.” In 2005, Angel appeared in want to touch their vaginas, and that makes Titan Media’s “Cirque Noir” becoming the first me so sad,” Angel says in a news release announcing Buck-Off. trans man SFGN_Florida_House3_Top_WP.pdf in an all-male production.1 4/22/2015 10:44:34 AM

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Datebook

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Gender Bender Youth Group

Calendar@SFGN.com

Top Picks “She’s Beautiful She’s Angry”

When

Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. at the Stonewall National Museum - Wilton Manors, 2157 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors.

A screening of the film chronicling the birth of the women’s liberation movement in the 1960s. Free. Call 954-763-8565 or visit StonewallMuseum.org.

Botanical Zika

Solutions

to

Sept. 20 from 10 a.m. to noon at Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Drive in Miami Beach. Zika is all anyone is talking about — learn how it has impacted plant life and the horticulture community. RSVP to sshapiro@mbgarden.org.

The Thrill of the Vote: Episodes in Democracy

Sept. 20 to Nov. 30 at FAU’s Theatre Lab Gallery in Parliament Hall, 777 Glades Road in Boca Raton. A exhibiting exploring voting rights over American history. Call 561-297-6124 or visit FAUEvents.com.

Wednesdays from noon to 2 p.m. at Sunshine Cathedral, 1480 SW Ninth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Times can be tough — eery Wednesday the church is offering a free lunch to those who want or need it — no questions, no judgment. Free. Call 954-4622004 or visit SunshineCathedral.org.

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

Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com

PFLAG

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

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 954384-0344 or visit FISPOnline.org.

Bereavement Group broward county *Thursdays at 1 p.m. at SunServe, 2312 Wilton * Brown Bag Lunch

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Broward Support Services

AARP Driver Safety Classroom Course

Sept. 15 from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Learn safety strategies to improve your driving confidence. Some insurance companies provide discounts for those who take the course! Bring drivers license, AARP card, and a snack. Cost $15 for AARP members, $20 non-members. Call 954-943-0648 or visit AARP.org/Drive.

Drive in Wilton Manors. The Rev. Anne R. Atwell of Sunshine Cathedral leads a weekly group to discuss the challenges of recovering from loss in a safe space. Free. Call 954-7645150 or visit SunServe.org.

* Bereavement Group

Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Sunshine Cathedral, 1480 SW Ninth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale.

The Rev. Anne R. Atwell of Sunshine Cathedral leads a weekly group to discuss the challenges of recovering from loss in a safe space. Free. Call 954-462-2004 or visit SunshineCathedral.org.

* GLLN Happy Hour

Sept. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Matty’s, 2100 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Join the Gay and Lesbian Lawyers Network for its monthly meet and greet with two-for-one drinks and passed appetizers. Free. Visit GLLN.org.

sept 14 to sept 20 * Broward Meditates

Sept. 18 at 3 p.m. at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. A nondenominational workshop focusing on stress and anxiety reduction. Tickets $21.20. Call or visit 954462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

Secret Dressing: Subliminal Messages in Male Clothing Catalogs

Through Sept. 18 at the Stonewall National Museum — Wilton Manors Gallery, 2157 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. An exhibit exploring the underlying messages in men’s advertising that shows the presence of gay influence on style. Free. Call 954-763-8565 or visit Stonewall-Museum.org.

* I Am Here: The Lesbian Portraits

Sept. 22 to Nov. 6 at at the Stonewall National Museum - Wilton Manors, 2157 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. After photographer Robert Kalman’s lesbian’s sister passed away, he has paid tribute to her memory by photographing lesbians while asking them, “What’s life like for you now?” Free. Call 954763-8565 or visit Stonewall-Museum.org.

palm beach county Constitution Day

Sept. 15 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at FAU’s Democracy Plaza, 777 Glades Road in Boca Raton. A celebration of the American Constitution with a presentation of colors, national anthem, a presentation by journalist and Assistant Professor Mirta Ojito, and a panel on “Elections, Media, and Free Press.” Free. Call 561-252-1794 or email kwagne15@fau.edu.

Florida: Flora and Fauna The River of Grass and Beyond

Through Oct. 2 at The Box Gallery, 811 Belvedere Road in West Palm Beach. An exhibit celebrating the unique flora and fauna of our state. Call 786-521-1199 or visit TheBoxGallery.info.

Transcendence

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

Zumba Fitness

Mondays at 6 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Get moving with a certificated Zumba instructor for an infusion of exercise and dance moves.

Donation of $5 or more. Call 561-324-1626 or visit CompassGLCC.com.

miami-dade county * Bridging Generations Through Dialogue

Sept. 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Pridelines, 6360 NE Fourth Court in Miami. Pridelines and partner agencies have teamed up to create a intergenerational space to discuss HIV and its impact on the South Florida community. Free. Call Tremaine Jones at 305-209-7380 or email Trey@pridelines.org.

RSVP to EventBrite.

Ethiopia Now!

Through Nov. 15 at the Miami Center for Architecture & Design, 100 NE First Ave. in Miami. An exhibit of contemporary architecture by 19 designers from the past decade. Call 305-448-7488 or visit miamicad.org.

Arsht Center Farmers Market

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

Yoga

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

key west 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.

* Denotes New Listing

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Business Directory a&e Ft Lauderdale Gay Men's Chorus PO Box 9772, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33310-9772 954-832-0060 www.theftlgmc.org Andrews Living Arts Studio 23 NW 5th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 954.530.1879 Classcreations.com Kravis Center 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL (561) 832-7469 Kravis.org Adrienne Arsht Center 1300 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132 305.949.6722 Arshtcenter.org Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida PO Box 39617, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33339 954-763-2266 Gaymenschorusofsouthflorida.org

sfgn.com chiropractic

chiropractic

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

florist

Coast Chiropractic Injury & Wellness Center 2608 NE 16th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33334 954.463.3036 www.coast-chiropractic.com

sfgn.com

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

health MASTER HYPNOTHERAPIST AND LIFE COACH

Andrews Dental Care 2654 N Andrews Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33311 954.567.3311 Andrewsdentalcare.com Wilton Manors Dental 2517 NE 9th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-564-4746 Wiltonmanorsdental.com Island City Dental 1700 NE 26th Street, Ste. 2, Fort Lauderdale, FL 954-564-7121 Islandcitydental.com

cleaning EMERALD IRISH CLEANING Established for 30 years. 3 hours of cleaning for $60.00. Use time as you wish. English speaking *hand scrubbed floors* Cleaning supplies included.

Service guaranteed 954-524-3161

handyman 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

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

WWW.COACHBILLFORLIFE.COM

final arrangements

954.641.8315

JOE PUNDAI Pre-Need Counselor

954-494-0366

Call For Your FREE No Obligation Consultation Budget Friendly Payment Plans Available

sfgn.com

YOUR PARTNER I N H O M E H E A LT H C A R E Private Nurse/Medical Assistant & Companion • Certified in Alzheimer’s, Dementia & Parkinson’s Disease • Responsible, trustworthy, compassionate, reliable liaison between doctors and family • Nursing care & daily administrative household needs • Worked with high visibility clients including Al Lewis (Grandpa Munster)

917.447.7894 • www.treldercare.com 48

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health

professional services

Dr. Tory Sullivan 2500 N Federal Hwy #301, Fort Lauderdale, FL 954.533.1520 Torysullivanmd.com

Licensed & Insured

954-725-3633

custom alarm contractors, Inc.

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

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

Natura Dermatology 1120 Bayview Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 754.333.4886 naturadermatology.com

www.customalarmcontractors.com

Have you made your wishes known?

We’re here to help.

1-800-343-5400

www.levitt-weinstein.com

investments American Tax & Insurance 2929 E Comm. Blvd, 8th Floor Penthouse D, Fort Lauderdale, FL

954.302.3228 Americantaxandinsurance.com

legal

Law office of george castrataro 707 NE 3rd Ave #300, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 954.573.1444 Lawgc.com Law office of Robin bodiford 2550 N Federal Hwy #20, Fort Lauderdale, FL 954.630.2707 Lawrobin.com

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

law office of Selzer & Weiss 1515 NE 25th St, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.567.4444 Selzerandweiss.com law office of Shawn Newman 710 NE 26th St, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.563.9160 Shawnnewman.com

professional services

Barton & Miller Cleaners 2600 N. Dixie Hwy Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-566-4314 Kalis-McIntee Funeral & Cremation Center

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

Pre-Arrangement Discounts For All Our LGBT Friends

Income Tax Preparation

The Best Cellar

Boutique Wine Shop & Wine Bar The Ultimate Wine Tasting Experience Wed., Thurs., Fri., Sat., at 8:00 p.m.

ONLY $15 PER PERSON! 954-630-8020 1408 N.E. 26th St. Wilton Manors, FL 33334

real estate

Daoud’s Fine Jewelers 2473 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 954.928.2437 Daouds.com

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

101 NE 3rd St Fort Lauderdale FL 33301

Ecumenical Catholic 954.731.8173

www.stsfrancisandclare.org

Doug Turner, Enrolled Agent Best Books and Taxes 2201 Wilton Drive bestbooksandtaxes.com

Baptisms • Weddings • Memorial Services

Integrity Palm Beach

954-565-1041

INTEGRITY is an official organization of the Episcopal Church that brings together single and partnered LGBTQ women and men and their allies for fellowship, advocacy, education and socializing.

Call today for appointment restaurants

OCTOBER 8TH

IRIS SEYMOUR SALES

&

RENTALS

BEEFCAKES 1721 N Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 954.463.6969 boardwalkbar.com

Rand Hoch PBC Human Rights Council

When: The second Saturday of each month, 7:30 p.m. program or presenter, immediately following 6:00 p.m. Communion Service and 6:45 potluck supper provided by attendees Where: St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church 100 North Palmway • Lake Worth, FL 33460 FOR INFORMATION:

www.integritypalmbeach.org or Joe@thegraphicissue.com

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

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

Peace Pipe 4800 N Dixie Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 954.267.9005 Facebook.com/peacepipefl

Mass Times: Saturday 5:00 PM Sunday 10:30 AM

•Individual •Small Business •Free Consultation

Storks Bakery 2505 NE 15th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.567.3220 Storksbakery.com

retail

veterinarian

954.610.8816

Dr. Pierre B. Bland, DVM 1332 E. Commercial Blvd., Oakland Park, FL 33334 954-673-8579 Doctorblandvet.com 9.14.2016 •

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SFGN Classified$ attorney

classified advertising works!

Place an ad in SFGN’s Classifieds

954.530.4970

home furnishing

To place a Classified Ad, call Tim Higgins at 954.530.4970 or email at Tim.Higgins@sfgn.com

licensed massage AFFORDABLE AWESOME MASSAGE BY JIM Offering Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports and LomiLomi Massage for Men; in a very comfortable, relaxed and Private Massage Studio, NOW conveniently located in Wilton Manors on NE 26th Street, with plenty of free parking. Same Day appointments are welcome; please call Jim, 954-600-5843 email: info@ massagebyjim.com or visit my website for testimonials, rates and more. GREAT OPENING SPECIAL NOW AVAILABLE! www.massagebyjim.com Licensed and Certified MM22293

sfgn.com

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

electrician

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

pool service COOL POOLS- RELIABLE POOL SERVICE Professional pool service.Covering Wilton Manors, Lighthouse Point, and eastside of Pompano Beach.

15 years experience. Licensed and insured.Free estimates. Call 954-235-0775.

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.

Place an ad in SFGN’s Classifieds

954.530.4970

pets/supplies

painting

GREGG'S PAINTING - I paint both interior and exterior. Great rates, free estimates. I am detailedoriented, friendly, reliable, punctual, and neat. No job too small. Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Call Gregg at 617-306-5694 or 954-870-5972 E-Mail: gmanbenn44@gmail.com

framing

sfgn.com graphic design 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

Place an ad in SFGN’s Classifieds

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9 .14.2016

• Logos • Advertisements • Book Covers • Social Media • Vector • Illustration

Excellence in aesthetics

For any visual task that needs a sly eye, Visit DogFoxDesign.com

Place an ad in SFGN’s Classifieds

954.530.4970

rentals fort lauderdale MIKE THE RENTAL GUY - NE Lauderdale/Wilton Manors/Oakland Park-1/1 from $990, 2/1 from $1140. Victoria Park-1/1=$1090.00 cable included.

Credit & Income Requirements-Pets okay with restrictions Call for Details Mike 561-703-5533 or miketherentalguy@aol.com

vacation rentals WILTON MANORS CALYPSO INN B&B AND VACATION RENTALS “Fill the room NO Vacancy Specials” are back for the months of August and September. Reserve or walk in and if we have vacant rooms and good Monday through Thursdays. Any two consecutive nights reduced from $199 to $149 or any three consecutive nights reduced from $299 to $219. The total stay rates are plus taxes and are based on any room still available. Guest must be 21 or over and have a Valid Non-Debit Major Credit Card and Identification. “Must mention this add when inquiring” Call Wes at 954-605-3561 daily 8am to 6pm

Place an ad in SFGN’s Classifieds

954.530.4970

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