11/4/15 V6i44 by South Florida Gay News

November 4, 2015 vol. 6 // issue 44

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orlando gay resort parliament house Gets $3.9 Million Loan From Miami Lender David Steven katz – this place is disgusting, with pimps and thieves

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Compiled by John McDonald

wiLton ManorS citY coMMiSSion voteS to fLY rainBow fLag perManentLY

kevin Burke – I hope they use some of the money to buy lots of bleach.

patrick Smith – That's what happens when you don't pay your taxes.

Yes the WM community should have an incredible favorable bias celebrating the gay residents and tourists that turned the ghetto slum of 1995 into a world famous upscale vacation destination in 2015. David Mann –

greg kanter –

Str8s have the whole country to feel comfortable in; Wilton Manors gays have a few miles of city block.

How long have we had a state flag derivative of the racist Confederate flag? Love the rainbow next to that old thing! Way to go, WM! I pledge allegiance!

ex-Boxer, YuSaf Mack, SaYS he waS DruggeD to fiLM a gaY porn threeSoMe kelly hedges-wehner –

Force me, force me to get hard and perform in front of a camera and a staff and cutting scenes and so on and so on

Z'ev hadash –

I watched the trailer. At one point while bottoming he says, "I don't believe that's all you got" and repeats "Come on!" four times, each more urgent and demanding.

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David friend horn –

I would think his performance in the video would tell everything! If he just laid there and was manipulated, then his explanation may be very true,,,on the other hand, if he is totally active and involved.....his story doesn't have much credence.

NOVEMBER 4, 2015 • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 44

Editorial

rj petrucci –

peter J. konrath – Always a fun time! Just wish they'd let me stay w my dogs!!

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cover: the Bars and clubs issue focuses on the hottest LGBt bars across south florida.

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 © 2015 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

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'You're Out!' Ex MLB Star Lenny Dykstra Admits to Blackmailing Closeted Umps Edge Media

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hat is the secret to success in Major League Baseball? In the case of former New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies centerfielder Lenny Dykstra, it could be gay extortion. TMZ reports. In a recent interview on "The Herd With Colin Cowherd on FS1," Dykstra admits to spending $500,000 on private investigators to spy on umpires, who he would blackmail for better calls during games. Some of the umpires under Dykstra's list were having affairs or were closeted gay men. "Their blood's just as red as ours," Dykstra said. "...Some of them like women, some of them like men, some of them gamble ... some of them do whatever." Dykstra told Cowherd he would get the goods on the umps and threaten to go public with whatever info he had unless he got favorable calls. Dykstra claims the umpires would often shrink the strike zone when he was at the plate at the end of his career in the early 1990s. If the closeted umps didn't play ball with Dykstra, he'd threaten to turn the tables and

BANKRUPTCY Individual and Corporate Filings say "you're out!" to them. "It wasn't a coincidence that I led the league in walks the next few years, was it?" News of Dykstra's past has Cyd Ziegler of OutSports calling for disciplinary action from MLB. "I have no doubt Dykstra did what he is claiming. He told Cowherd that some of the explosive details will be laid out in an upcoming book," Ziegler wrote. "Frankly, Major League Baseball should take these comments and said book and give the same lifetime ban to Dykstra that they've given to Pete Rose." Dykstra made his MLB debut in 1985 with the New York Mets and played his final game in 1996 with the Philadelphia Phillies.

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Surviving Stardom; Grand Maneuvers Life In The Fast Lane John McDonald

t was close to midnight before Steve Grand ago when I started this journey and my music definitely reflects that,” Grand told SFGN in took the stage inside a downtown Fort an exclusive backstage interview. “You have Lauderdale bar where only a few diehard to make decisions about how honest you want fans remained. Grand’s concert had been delayed by a bizarre to be. I’m always honest in what I do, but how much of myself do I want to incident earlier in the evening put forward. It’s more scarier when a man drove his car than ever when you really put into the Pride Fort Lauderdale “I’m grateful your heart and soul out there. festivities, forcing police to that I have a There’s a lot I want to say, shoot the vehicle’s tires before but how much can I handle? any serious damage could be lot of really How much can a complicated done. The chaos resulted in supportive fans. sensitive human being go authorities closing sections through and still carry on?” of Himmarshee Village and Not everybody It is a great question and leaving many to think the is going to see Grand has certainly gone party was over. through a transformation this “Our party became a crime you for what year. He has traveled globally scene,” bemoaned Bryan you have to say as a musical ambassador for Wilson, director of training the U.S. State Department, and marketing for SunServe, or the kind of visiting countries such as South Florida’s leading LGBT person you are. Latvia, Lithuania and Austria. social services agency. Grand said the experience in As the show went on, That’s fine.” the former Soviet republics Grand told his loyal audience was “eye opening.” he was glad no one was hurt - Steve Grand “It was definitely and hoped the suspect was meaningful for a lot of people not motivated by hate. His there,” Grand said. “It’s not the same as over cheerful performance, however, masked a here. Granted over here we have our own deeper battle going on inside the singer. struggles and we are not universally accepted “I’m a different person than I was two years

• 11.4.2015

in this country. We are not out of the woods yet, but it’s even tougher over there.” Grand’s mid-western country sound had an impact on at least one European. Ignas Rėkašius, a university student, attended Grand’s gig in Vilnius, Lithuania and described the occasion as “uplifting.” “I believe visibility is a key to engage people into a conversation of LGBT people that is so needed in countries like Lithuania,” said Rėkašius, who studies at the University of Dundee in Scotland. “Performing arts are a great tool to show people that regardless of gender, race and sexuality, we are all humans, unique in our own way and need to be respected.” Respect is often said to be earned and Grand at the tender age of 25 is discovering just that. He recently made waves with a social media post asking for people to pay closer attention to his work as opposed to his looks. Prior to launching his music career, Grand worked as a model and his chiseled physique is often mentioned by the media, particularly the gay media. “My expectations needed to be realigned,” Grand said of the controversy. “I’m grateful that I have a lot of really supportive fans. Not everybody is going to see you for what you have to say or the kind of person you are. That’s

fine. That’s just the reality of it. I’ve come to accept that.” For a performer who is a rising star, Grand said the whole episode of his appearance illustrates the laws of attraction and how far some will take it. “My message definitely was not don’t ever objectify me,” Grand said. “That’s not what I said. My message was more reasonable and nuanced. What I found was that it is really impossible to make some kind of statement and not have it taken to an absolute extreme.” As he looks to the future, Grand is preparing to attend the U.S. Marine Corps Ball next week in North Carolina at the request of Tanner White, an out gay marine. White, who is HIV positive, put together a video asking Grand to be his date to the ball. “I’m really looking forward to that,” Grand said. “It’s still fresh that people can be out in the military. (Tanner) seems like a great guy. It’s going to be a fun experience that I feel honored to be invited.” Musically, Grand said he is ready to move in a new direction. At his Fort Lauderdale show, he opened with “Stay” a whimsical number about Southern kings and living for daydreams before thrilling fans with “All American Boy” – the hit that put him on the map .

11.4.2015 â&#x20AC;¢

Compiled by Jillian Melero

west palm Beach updates anti-Discrimination Law (SFGN) The West Palm Beach City Commission voted unanimously to amend the city’s human rights law, to expand discrimination protections. The amendment now extends the list of “public accommodations” from restaurant bars and schools to include bakeries, hotels, theaters, spas gyms and any “establishment service, place or building which offers, sells or otherwise makes available any good, service, facility, privilege or advantage." The amendment follows a similar update to Palm

alk To Cure Arthritis Comes To Miami

Photo: Facebook.

(Arthritis Foundation) Arthritis impacts more than 50 million adults and 300,000 children – or approximately 22 percent of the United States population. The disease costs the U.S. economy $128 billion dollars a year, and it is a more frequent cause of activity limitation than heart disease, cancer, or diabetes. The Arthritis Foundation will host the 2015 Walk to Cure Arthritis on November 14th at 9:00am, in Amelia Earhart Park in Hialeah. “Arthritis is costly, painful and debilitating, and makes a significant impact in the lives of people in your community,” says Medical Honoree, Dr. Jaime Pachon. “By participating in and raising funds for Miami Walk to Cure Arthritis, you will help us reach our goal of raising $100,000 to remove the burden of arthritis entirely by bringing us closer to a cure.” Register online at www.WalkToCureArthritis.org or call 954-548-3005.

• 11.4.2015

Beach County’s human rights law. "It's the biggest expansion in civil rights in the city and county in decades," said Rand Hoch, president of the Human Rights Council. The Palm Beach Post reports that Hoch along with Sen. Joe Abruzzo, D-Wellington are working to reinforce nondiscrimination laws on the state level as well. While it took eight months to update the laws on the city and county level Hoch estimates it could take three or four years to bring such changes to state law.

igh Court Won't Hear Appeal in Anti-Gay Defamation Lawsuit

(AP) The Supreme Court has rejected an appeal from a former lawyer for the state of Michigan who lost a defamation lawsuit filed by a gay student at the University of Michigan. The justices on Monday let stand a lower court ruling that upheld a $3.5 million jury award to Chris Armstrong, a former student government president. Andrew Shirvell was fired as assistant attorney general in 2010 for waging an anti-gay campaign against Armstrong, who accused him of stalking and defaming him on an anti-gay blog and elsewhere. A federal appeals court rejected Shirvell's request for a new trial, but reduced the jury's award by $1 million, making it $3.5 million. Shirvell says he was exercising free speech rights and claimed his comments were protected because Armstrong is a public figure.

oster-Care Agencies Step Up Efforts on Behalf of LGBT Youth

(AP) When she entered a foster-care group home in 2012, Delilah Ramos was, by her own description, a harddrinking teen with a wild streak. And as a lesbian, she was unsure how her sexual orientation would be received. Today, three years later at age 19, Ramos could leave Marian Hall, her group home in Manhattan. But she wants to stay two more years. "I consider this building a safe place," she said. "I'm really grateful, living here." Her positive experience reflects a profound transformation in how gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youths across the United States are treated after they enter foster care. Historically, the experience was often grim for them: Many were rejected by their own families, then encountered prejudice, harassment and abuse when they shifted to a foster home. Efforts to tackle such problems have gained momentum

across the U.S., but with varying success. Officials in some areas say the most sweeping institutional reforms, even though desired, may only come slowly. And some new requirements, they say, could risk shrinking the already limited pool of foster parents. New York City, meanwhile, is at the vanguard of change. Its child-welfare agency, the Administration for Children's Services, has been working for more than a decade to improve care for LGBT youth. In 2012, the agency established an Office of LGBTQ Policy & Practice (the Q stands for 'questioning'), and stipulated that LGBToriented training must be given to all staff at its nonprofit partner agencies who work with young people. Last year, ACS Commissioner Gladys Carrion went a step further, issuing a directive requiring that all newly certified foster parents pledge that they could provide an affirming, supportive home for LGBT youth. The policy also requires that veteran foster parents, when getting recertified, receive training in how to support LGBT youth.

(EDGE) The CEO of Rentboy.com is breaking his silence months after federal agents raided the gay escort website's office in New York City. Jeffrey Hurant, who was one of many Rentboy.com employees arrested on prostitution charges in August, took to Facebook on Oct. 28, asking the public for donations to support Rentboy.com's legal team. I realize that I have been very quiet on Facebook since my arrest on August 25th. I have been advised by legal counsel not to make any public statements about the case. As any of you who know me can guess, this hasn't been easy for me. This ordeal has been devastating for me, my family, my ex-employees and all the people my company has helped through the years. I am very grateful for all the support I have gotten from friends far and wide throughout the crisis. I count my blessings every day. The brilliant team at Sher Tremonte, LLP has been working tirelessly preparing my defense. Even though I have not been proven guilty of committing any crime, the government has seized all the assets that I can use to defend myself, so I am here asking for your financial help to insure that this case has the best legal minds working on it. Please consider donating to the http://www.rentboyfund. org/ Legal Defense Fund. The website is also apparently liquidating their assets and is selling its merchandise and the content of its office via Craigslist.

Photo: Facebook.

entboy CEO Seeks Financial Help Via Facebook

Continued

ay Conversion Therapy Organization Rebrands, Expands Mission

(EDGE) As more states debate legislation banning the practice of gay conversion therapy on minors, noted ex-gay organization International Healing Foundation (IHF) has re-branded to expand their mission to approach prevention and family counseling. Don't worry though, the organization, now named the Institute for Healthy Families (also IHF) will still pray the gay away as long as its legal. "Moving forward, our message of healing will not change, but will only increase in scope and outreach to meet the demand of an ever hurting family and culture," wrote IHF executive director Christopher Doyle. "We are witnessing record-high numbers of divorce and infidelity among couples of faith, and more and more of our children are experiencing sex addiction, gender and sexual identity confusion, drug and alcohol abuse, and other emotional problems." In addition to being executive director for IHF, Doyle is also head of ex-gay advocacy and civil rights groups Voice of the Voiceless and Equality and Justice for All. The annual ex-gay pride events that draw tens of participants to Washington, D.C. is his brainchild. "We will not abandon our mission to help individuals and communities that struggle with unwanted same-sex attraction and gender identity confusion," Doyle writes. "Rather, we will be expanding our outreach to help restore hope to hurting homes ...while also focusing on a broad range of sexual and relational issues, in light of the current cultural changes and problems in our society. The IHF is located in Maryland where a bill seeking to ban ex-gay therapy on minors was withdrawn in 2014. Currently there are bans on conversion therapy for minors in California, New Jersey, Oregon and Washington, D.C.

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russia to Double Spending on hiv care next Year (AP) Russia will double its spending on HIV care and prevention next year in the face of a growing epidemic, the country's health minister announced on Friday. Veronika Skvortsova earlier this week raised the alarm about the HIV epidemic in Russia, saying that it would spiral out of control by the end of decade if the funding for treatment is not raised. She said that with the current funding the government can provide care for less than a quarter of HIV-positive patients in Russia. Skvortsova said on Friday that the Russian budget will allocate more than $600 million next year to double this year's spending. Some of the funding, according to Skvortsova, will go to NGOs who help to raise HIV awareness in Russia.

ransgender Woman Loses Legal Appeal Over Men's Prison Stint

(AP) A transgender British woman jailed in a men's prison lost an appeal of her sentence Friday, but judges urged the prison service to consider moving her to a women's facility. Tara Hudson, who has lived as a woman all her adult life, was sentenced last week to 12 weeks in prison for headbutting a bar manager. The 26-year-old makeup artist was sent to HMP Bristol, a men's prison in southwest England, where her lawyer, Nicholas Wragg, said she was separated from other inmates and "locked in a cell 23 hours a day." Wragg argued she should be released to do community service. Three judges at Bristol Crown Court rejected Hudson's appeal against the sentence, noting that she had eight previous convictions. The judges said it was "for the prison service and not the court" to decide where the sentence should be served, but

â&#x20AC;˘ 11.4.2015

urged "sensitive consideration" of where Hudson should be held. The Prison Service said it was "longstanding policy to place offenders according to their legally recognized gender." Hudson has had gender reassignment surgery but is still legally classified as male. The service said its guidelines allowed "room for discretion and in such cases, medical experts will review the circumstances in order to protect the emotional well-being of the person concerned." The Press Association news agency and other British media, citing government sources, said that following the court ruling, Hudson was being moved to a facility for women. The Prison Service said it could not comment on individual cases.

Gaga Gets Jazzy at AIDS Lady Research Tribute to Ryan Murphy

(AP) Lady Gaga is continuing her jazzy period. The entertainer performed an hour-long jazz set Thursday at the American Foundation for AIDS Research's tribute to Ryan Murphy. "I love Ryan so much, and I'm so, so happy to be here," said Gaga, who stars on the current season of the writer-director's FX hit, "American Horror Story." "He's really my friend and he's a wonderful person," she said. Gaga dedicated the '60s standard "Call Me Irresponsible" to Murphy, who was the guest of honor at amfAR's Los Angeles Inspiration Gala. Murphy pledged to serve as "a lifelong ambassador" for the organization, which aims to find a cure for AIDS by 2020. Murphy said the evening raised $3.1 million toward that goal. Gaga contributed to the total during a live auction conducted by Sharon Stone. Gaga bid a winning $200,000 on a photograph of Elizabeth Taylor flipping the bird. Cuba Gooding, Jr. engaged

in a brief bidding war with billionaire Barry Diller for a pair of platinum diamond earrings. Diller won with $60,000. Gwyneth Paltrow hosted the fundraiser at Milk Studios, which also included appearances by Julia Roberts, Angela Bassett, Matt Bomer and Cheyenne Jackson. Murphy may have been the guest of honor, but Gaga was the reigning diva. She wore a long dusty pink gown with floorsweeping kimono sleeves, an intricate diamond collar, and a platinum blonde beehive. Gaga performed "Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)," which she recorded for her 2014 album with Tony Bennett, "Cheek to Cheek." She played piano as she sang her new single, "Til it Happens to You," a song she co-wrote with Diane Warren for the 2015 documentary "The Hunting Ground." Gaga said her performance was inspired by Murphy. For her closing number, Gaga ditched her dress for a tuxedo jacket and not much else. She sang "La Vie en Rose" - in French, bien sĂťr.

Photo: Facebook.

HIV treatment became less affordable in Russia after a number of NGOs had to suspend their operations in order to comply with a Russian law clamping down on organizations receiving foreign funding. The 2012 foreign agents law imposed severe penalties on recipients of foreign grants engaged in loosely defined political activities. Victims of the backlash were as varied as environmental activists and NGOs helping HIV patients. Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev earlier this week said the number of HIV-positive Russians grows by 10 percent every year. It is expected to hit 1 million by the end of the year.

politics white house watch Adam Rose/CNN.

Ben Carson responds to a question during the CNN Republican Presidential Debate .

Carson Brings Book Tour To Fort Lauderdale John McDonald

s of Monday evening there were still several problems; most notably suggesting 15 declared major candidates for the that prison turns people gay and same-sex Republican Party’s U.S. Presidential marriage will lead to disaster like the fall of nomination. Six of those do not even net the Roman Empire. one percent of support in a respected New Meanwhile, Marco Rubio appears to be Hampshire poll. benefitting the most from last So what is the deal in the week’s CNBC debate, surging Grand Old Party? to third in the latest Monmouth “The Here’s what we know: University poll of likely New Political outsiders Donald Hampshire Republican voters. challenges Trump and Ben Carson Rubio, Florida’s junior U.S. we face as still lead the pack. Carson, Senator came off strong in a retired neurosurgeon an exchange with former a nation are with a home in Palm Florida Governor Jeb Bush over too great to Beach County, leads the whether he should resign his latest polls in Iowa and is Senate seat while campaigning roll the dice undoubtedly riding high. for President. on another Carson announced Bush, however, fired back on on Sunday his campaign Monday at a campaign event presidential raised $10 million in the in Tampa, rebranding himself experiment.” month of October. He is as Mr. Fix It and taking a veiled scheduled to sign copies shot at Rubio by stating, “the – Jeb Bush of his book, “A More answer isn’t sending someone Perfect Union: What from one side of the capital We The People Can Do city to the other.” Bundling To Reclaim Our Constitutional Liberties,” Rubio with President Obama, Bush said, Thursday, Nov. 5 at the Barnes & Noble in “the challenges we face as a nation are too Fort Lauderdale (2051 N. Federal Hwy.) great to roll the dice on another presidential While he leads in Iowa, a state that experiment.” historically favors Republicans with an Elsewhere, on the Democratic front, evangelical base, Carson still trails Trump former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton nationally and is fighting off questions of his remains in a commanding lead, followed involvement with Mannatech, a nutritional by Vermont socialist Bernie Sanders and supplement company. Cracks in the Carson Ex-Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley. armor are also beginning to show concerning The trio are scheduled to appear at a forum his story of attacking a “friend” with a knife on Friday in Rock Hill, South Carolina to as a high school freshman in Baltimore. be moderated by MSNBC anchor and out For gay Americans, Carson presents lesbian Rachel Maddow. 11.4.2015 •

lgbt bites

Compiled by Jillian Melero

gay

Lesbian Margarethe caMMerMeYer to receive MatLovich MeDaL Dr. John McNeill, and SSGT Eric Alva, USMC (ret). The Matlovich Medal will be presented to Colonel Cammermeyer at AVER’s National Convention in Albuquerque, New Mexico, April 21-24, 2016. The keynote speaker for the convention will be Major General Patricia A. Rose, the highest ranking openly LGBT officer in the United States Military. Registration for the convention and hotel along with information regarding the convention will open on Nov. 15, 2015.

Submitted photo.

(AVER) American Veterans for Equal Rights announced that US Army (ret) Colonel Margarethe Cammermeyer will receive the 2016 Leonard P. Matlovich Distinguished Service Medal in recognition of her contributions towards the right of LGBT patriots to serve with dignity, honor, and equality in the armed forces of the United States. The Matlovich Medal is the highest award AVER presents to any individual. Past Recipients include President Barack Obama, Admiral Mike Mullen, Dr. Frank Kameny, Rev.

the QuipS anD put-DownS of gaY rugBY referee nigeL owenS (AP) They've racked up thousands of views on YouTube. They're emblazoned on the front of T-shirts. They've put some of the world's burliest sportsmen in their place. The put-downs and quips delivered by Welsh referee Nigel Owens have become a thing of legend in rugby. The 44-year-old Owens is famous for being one of the few openly gay men in sports, but less wellknown is his past in stand-up comedy and acting on stage as a youngster. He is in demand as a speaker on the after-dinner or social-club circuit. It means his jokes are sharp, his retorts are quick - and all are broadcast to the world because rugby makes referees wear television microphones during games. Here is a selection of his best one-liners on the rugby field: To Harlequins lock George Robson and Wasps lock Bradley Davies, as they grappled after play had been stopped during an

English Premiership league game: "It's embarrassing, Will you leave it. If you want a cwtch (a Welsh word for 'cuddle'), do it off the field." To Harlequins hooker Dave Ward, who delivered a crooked lineout throw against Castres during a European Cup game: "I'm straighter than that one." To Treviso scrumhalf Tobias Botes in a Pro 12 game against Munster: "I don't think we've met before. I'm the referee on this field. Stick to your job and I will do mine. If I hear you shouting anything again, I will be penalizing you. This is not soccer. Back you go." To Scotland fullback Stuart Hogg, who dived theatrically after being lightly touched during a Rugby World Cup game against South Africa at St. James' Park, the home of soccer club Newcastle United: "Dive like that again, and come back in two weeks and play. Not today. Watch it."

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Plans, elevations, specifications, features, colors, designs, dimensions and materials are all subject to availability, and to change or substitution at any time and without notice. SobelCo expressly reserves the right to make modification, revisions and changes as may be required for lot fit or by governmental bodies and law, or other reasons as set forth in the Purchase Agreement. Illustrations of elevations and plans are artist’s depictions only. Plans are only for illustrative and conceptional purposes, are not to scale, and may be the reverse (mirror image) of those shown. The drawings and floor plans in this brochure should not be relied upon, express or implied, for the final detail, feature or dimensions of any home. All measurements, including, but not limited to, room dimensions, balconies, porches and ceiling and wall heights are approximate and may vary from those shown as a result of, among other things, (i) the elevation and home-site selected, and/or (ii) construction materials, construction practices, field conditions and flooring thickness. Square footages are approximate and are measured from the outside of exterior walls. In production, plans and elevations may vary in precise details and dimensions, and may not actually be constructed as shown. The fixture shapes shown are graphical in nature and are not necessarily indicative of a particular style or model. In addition, some features shown in the model homes may not be included in the purchase price of the home as quoted. Please consult your sales representative and refer to the Purchase Agreement in order to determine which features, specifications and elevations are included in any home you may purchase. Stock photography includes stock images and is used to depict the spirit of lifestyle and not for specific references. Map is for illustration purposes, not to scale and for approximate location only. For exact locations consult a sales representative. CBC017578

lgbt bites

continued

Bisexual TV Bisexuals are the Bad Guys (SFGN) GLAAD’s annual report on the state of minorities in TV, shows that four percent of characters on broadcast primetime shows are LGBT. And bisexuals make up 28 percent of regular or recurring LGBT characters on television, The Atlantic reports. Yet while depictions of lesbian and gay characters increasingly carry less of a sexual stigma, GLAAD identified the negative bisexual stereo types which are regularly portrayed on TV. • bisexual characters who are depicted as untrustworthy, prone to infidelity, and/or lacking a sense of morality; • characters who use sex as a means of manipulation or who are lacking the ability to form genuine relationships; • associations behavior;

with

self-destructive

• and treating a character’s attraction to more than one gender as a temporary plot

device that is rarely addressed again. The GLAAD list includes “Cyrus Henstridge on E!’s The Royals who last season seduced a member of parliament and then blackmailed him into helping the Queen; Mr. Robot’s Tyrell who sleeps with a male office assistant to install spyware on the man’s phone; and the traitorous Chamberlain Milus Corbett on FX’s The Bastard Executioner, whose sexual liaisons have so far been depicted as a way for him to exert power,” the Atlantic reports. GLAAD’s Alexandra Bolles explains, “Though bisexual people make up the majority of the LGBT community, they are less likely than their gay and lesbian peers to be out to the people they love, because their identity is constantly misconstrued as either a form of confusion, a lie, or a contrived and hypersexualized means to an end. Perpetuating these tropes undermines the truth that bisexuality is real and that bi people deserve to be treated equally and fairly.”

Transgender Task Force Celebrates Transgender Awareness Month (TheTaskForce) To mark Transgender Awareness Month this November, the National LGBTQ Task Force’s Executive Director Rea Carey issued a statement. The following are excerpts. “As we mark Transgender Awareness Month, there is much to celebrate in terms of awareness for the transgender community but there are urgent issues that must be addressed that directly affect transgender lives. “But with all the awareness, there has been too little attention paid to the murders of transgender women, and particularly transgender women of color, across the nation and the shocking rates of unemployment, homelessness and poverty that are way above those faced by the rest of the LGBQ community and the general public. The solution to these problems are as diverse as employers hiring more transgender people to every level of government passing strong non-discrimination laws, from passing federal legislation that effectively tackles police profiling to not criminalizing people engaged in sex work. While progress has been made through groundbreaking EEOC rulings, we are still waiting for Congress to pass a

strong, explicit and comprehensive federal non-discrimination law. "As we mark this very special month, we all must work harder for a world where transgender people and all LGBQ people can bring their whole selves to life without the fear of discrimination, persecution and violence.” Last year, the National LGBTQ Task Force launched the public education campaign #StopTransMurders. The campaign aims to raise awareness of the appalling murder rate of transgender women of color across the country and to stimulate discussion about how to solve this national tragedy. To learn more about the campaign, visit: thetaskforce. org/stop-trans-murders/

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LGBT-Supportive Billionaire Banker Backs Rubio for Presidency Edge Media

leading GOP fundraiser and donor, shouldn't "be part of a social experiment," who has used his money to urge LGBTQ Nation points out. He's also voted GOP politicians and lawmakers to against ENDA. support LGBT-inclusive laws in the past, Singer, however, created the American is ignoring Marco Rubio's HRC rating of Unity Fund and the American Unity 22 and is officially backing the Florida PAC in 2012, which urged Republicans senator's bid for president. to support LGBT rights. CNN reports. In 2013, he teamed up Paul Singer, who has with Democratic donor “You have a gay son, according to Jonathan Lewis and each LGBTQ Nation, lauded of them donated $250,000 to have the Rubio and said he is "one to the Americans for right ideas of the best communicators Workplace Opportunity, a the modern Republican group aiming to pass ENDA. and the right Party has seen," in a letter The same year, he donated principles and sent out Friday to his donor money with Daniel S. Loeb network, as reported by the convince people Family Foundation to the New York Times. Human Rights Campaign that you're the Foundation. "Marco Rubio can appeal to both the head and the Rubio said he was right person heart. He can lead our "grateful" to received for the job.” nation by inspiring it," Singer's support. Singer wrote. "He's someone that's – Marco Rubio According to successful at raising CNN, Singer's Rubio money," Rubio told endorsement is a "major reporters at a campaign boost for the Florida senator's campaign event in Iowa. "I'm grateful that, you and is a setback for Jeb Bush, whose know, when people donate to us they buy campaign has far out raised his rivals this into our agenda, and I'm glad that he has year." and it will help us with resources. But you But Singer's support for Rubio goes know, resources alone are not enough. against his past LGBT support, as the You have to have the right ideas and the presidential hopeful opposes same-sex right principles and convince people that marriage and LGBT rights. He's been you're the right person for the job. But against measure allowing same-sex we're grateful to have his help, obviously." couples adopting children because kids

• 11.4.2015

11.4.2015 â&#x20AC;¢

news local

Photo: Robert Figueroa

Credit: Susan Buzzi

Ferd van Gameren, left, and his husband, Brian Rosenberg, with their son Levi, 6, and twin daughters, Ella and Sadie, 5. The couple founded Gays With Kids in 2014.

gaYS with kiDS Christiana Lilly

n 2009, Bryan Rosenberg and his husband Ferd van Gameren had just found out they were going to be parents – a 3-day-old baby boy was available for adoption – so they needed to get their house ready right away. The couple took off from store to store with a doula to help them pick out what they would need for a newborn -- bottles, bibs, bouncers and all -- when they noticed that everything was geared towards moms. “I swear half the labels on the products that we ended up buying said ‘Made for mommies!’ ‘Approved by mommies!’” Rosenberg laughed. “Are we not supposed to buy this stuff ?” After they brought their son, Levi, home, Rosenberg researched online, looking for a community of fathers, gay or straight, that they could reach out to. There was nothing. Just before adopting Levi, they had signed a nonrefundable surrogacy agreement. A few months later, their surrogate became pregnant with twin girls. In 17 short months, the couple had become parents to three children. With still no community available for gay fathers, Rosenberg and van Garenem

• 11.4.2015

Community for gay fathers growing

decided to create one, and Gays With Kids was born in June 2014. “I wanted to tell stories about raising children and I wanted to find a place where we could address issues that are important specially to me as a gay dad,” Rosenberg said. “It has greatly exceeded our wildest expectations.” With a website, active social media, and a YouTube account, Gays With Kids gives dads around the country -- and the world -- a place to learn about adoption, surrogacy, marriage, day-to-day child rearing, legal issues, and also videos of gay couples with their children sharing their stories. Plus, the couples featured are from all over, interracial, binational, previously in heterosexual relationships, or transgender, providing a look at how diverse gay parenthood can be. “What there’s a significant lacking of is accurate and honest portrayals of our families, which as it turns is no different from other families,” Rosenberg said. “We spend our weekends chasing our kids to soccer, going to different parties, we struggle with getting them to do homework -- it’s exactly the same issues.”

“a tale of two Daddies” by vanita oelschlager

a young girl on the playground answers her friends questions about having two daddies -- and who she goes to when she’s sad and need some love. Both, of course! (Pre-k to Grade 1)

“and tango Makes three” by Justin richardson and peter parnell

Penguins roy and silo call the central Park Zoo their home and place a rock in their nest to try and hatch it. seeing this, the zookeeper gives them a real egg that needs care. the penguins take turns sitting on it until it hatches, and little tango is born. (Grades 1 to 3)

a gooD Start in Life David Novak was playing with his son, Ashton, flipping him upside down, eliciting squeals and giggles from the happy 2-year-old. A woman looked on, doting, and asked “Your wife lets you do that?” Novak looked at her and replied, “No, but my husband does.” Gays With Kids has featured the lives of gay dads from different walks of life, including Novak and his fiancé, Alex Costa, and their rambunctious toddler. The two were in heterosexual marriages, both ending, when they met at the gym. Costa, originally from Recife, Brazil was drawn to the Plant City man’s outgoing personality and positivity, and the two dated when they were both officially separated. The following year, they attended a Pride festival and learned about fostering through Kids in Distress in Wilton Manors. Both men knew they wanted to have children one day and went through the process to become foster parents. They got a call that a 3-month-old boy needed a foster placement and the couple gladly brought Ashton home.

“The first nine months I’d wake up every morning to myself and say, ‘This is not my child, I’m doing this to give him a good start in life.’ I had to keep reminding myself of that. You build up this little wall,” Novak remembers. “When he turned a year old and he started getting his personality, that little bit of that wall just crumbled. It was an incredible thing but then I knew if we weren’t able to keep him I would have been devastated.” When Ashton was 17 months old, Costa and Novak were able to adopt him and they are both listed as his parents on his birth certificate. “He’s definitely changed our lives,” Costa said. “We went to Brazil with him and the fact that we had no problem traveling with him internationally, you know two guys and one kid.. [there’s] so much positive energy around us.” “Society’s changing and people are changing and their hearts are changing. It makes me glad that there’s hope for our society and there’s hope that our child won’t grow up stigmatized by having two daddies, which I don’t think he will,” Novak said.

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John Novak, left, and his ﬁance, Alex costa, with their son ashton, 2.

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news local

Wilton Manors Makes History; Permanent Pride Flag Approved Michael d’Oliveira

ivisive isn’t a word used very perceive a bias on the part of our often during Wilton Manors’ gaycentric city,” said resident Paul Commission meetings. But it got Kuta. “If you want to represent a special plenty of use during a discussion on the interest group, run for Congress,” said permanent raising of the LGBT Pride Flag resident Ben Little. on city property. Commissioner Julie Carson agreed. “I don’t want to see our city get “I was elected to represent and include divided,” said resident Ruthanne Stadnik. everyone.” She said the flag would make The debate began on some residents feel Oct. 13 when resident excluded and apart from Tim Evans suggested the community. Carson the Pride Flag be raised “Our straight said she voted to approve permanently on city the flag to move the residents property. Ultimately, conversation forward to a increasingly Evans would like to see it final vote. placed in a city park. Commissioner Justin perceive a He will most likely get Flippen responded that bias on the his wish as commissioners the raising of the Pride unanimously voted Flag does not disrespect part of our Tuesday to instruct straight residents. “No gaycentric city staff members to one would argue that find a city property to a Martin Luther King city.” raise the Pride Flag. The Memorial is anti-white.” commission will have While Commissioner – Paul Kuta final approval at a future Tom Green added, “It just Resident meeting, possibly Nov. 10. supports who we are as a Evans and other community.” supporters cited the Mayor Resnick argued contribution of the LGBT community in that, despite the progress made in the revitalizing and reinvigorating the city. country and the city when it comes to “It certainly doesn’t hurt the property acceptance of the LGBT community, values,” Evans said. Jeff Sterling, owner there’s still more to be made. Raising the of Sterling Accounting, said the LGBT Pride Flag, he said, is a symbol that’s still community has had a significant impact needed. Even in Wilton Manors. He cited on the city’s economy. a resident who recently came out as gay Those against praised the contributions and was not accepted by family members. of the LGBT community but said raising “That’s right here in Wilton Manors. He the Pride Flag would be offensive to also cited his own personal struggles many residents and elevate the LGBT with acceptance. “Eric and I have family community above the rest of the city. members who will not talk to us because “Our straight residents increasingly we’re gay.”

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politics out on the trail

Photo: Facebook.

Andrea Leigh McGee.

McGee Targets Frankel’s House Seat

John McDonald

ndrea Leigh McGee, a native daughter of South Florida, spoke to the Broward Log Cabin Republicans Monday evening, insisting she was the right candidate to unseat U.S. Congresswoman Lois Frankel. “We can take Broward County back for small business, individual freedom and small government,” McGee said. McGee cited a report showing Frankel, a Democrat, is the 14th least effective member of Congress, adding “she’s been in Palm Beach County politics longer than I have been alive.” Frankel, 67, represents House District 22 in Washington, D.C. The district map, McGee said, is expected to change and encompass more of Broward County and less of Palm Beach County, where Frankel is strong, serving as Mayor of West Palm Beach from 2003 to 2011. “She is going to have to introduce herself to a whole slew of new people,” McGee said. Sandy Steen, past president of Broward Log Cabin Republicans and former Wilton Manors Mayor, said it is time for Frankel to step aside. “She (Frankel) doesn’t do a bloody thing in Washington,” said Steen, who hosted Monday night’s meeting. “Lois Frankel has never presented anything to Congress.” McGee, 32, has worked in the film and television industry in Los Angeles and the commercial real estate sector in Washington, D.C. As a millennial she is part of a new generation of Republicans that are comfortable speaking to LGBT groups such as Log Cabin Republicans.

• 11.4.2015

“I’ve spoken against the Tea Party about it (LGBT issues),” McGee told SFGN after her speech Monday night. Born in Fort Lauderdale, McGee graduated from Cardinal Gibbons High School and earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami. Meanwhile, in Central Florida, the Florida Democratic Party held its annual convention last weekend at Disney's Yacht Club Resort. One of the featured speakers was Carlos Guillermo Smith, who energized attendees with a passionate bilingual speech demanding equal access to healthcare and employment for the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory. "We Democrats stand for equality," Guillermo Smith said. "We need to stand united with our Boricua brothers and sisters in demanding equality in healthcare funding for Puerto Rico. We need to demand equal work for equal pay. We must demand full equality with anti-discrimination protections for the LGBT community. We must pass the Equal Rights Amendment, and we must understand the intersection between social and economic justice and that we will never truly be equal until every person has the opportunity to earn a fair living wage and have access to fair benefits." Guillermo Smith is campaigning for House Seat 49 in Orlando. A social justice advocate for the civil rights organization Equality Florida, Guillermo Smith is coming to Fort Lauderdale on Thursday, Nov. 5, for a fundraiser hosted by Scott Bennett. For more information, visit CarlosGuillermoSmith. com.

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news local Screenshot from the promo.

Trans Confab promoted in cvb video Denis Jozefowicz

video has been produced for the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau (GFLCVB) featuring the Southern Comfort Conference. The Southern Comfort Conference, an annual transgender conference, held its gathering here in Fort Lauderdale last month for the first time to rave reviews, and the video highlights that success. Richard Gray, Managing Director for the LGBTQ Market at the GFLCVB states in the video, "It is time for the Greater

â&#x20AC;˘ 11.4.2015

Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau to emphasize the importance of the 'T' in 'LGBT'". Lexi Dee, President of Southern Comfort Confrence describes the experience here as, "We never felt so more welcome in our life in 24 years in Atlanta." The video features Zackary Drucker, coproducer of the show "Transparent," Jazz Jennings, teen transgender activist, and local activist Bishop S. F. Makalani-MaHee. You can watch it at our website at sfgn. com/cvbtransvideo

editorial cartoon

Photo:Facebook

column chamber chat

Support our MeMBerS aLwaYS Jorge Richa Marketing & Programming Director, Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce

.O.M.A. means “Support Our Members Always.” As a community chamber (versus a civic chamber), we encourage both our gay and gay-friendly family to support those who support us. One of the benefits of membership in the MiamiDade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (MDGLCC) is the knowledge that an $8 billion local LGBT market searches our roster of members first when making purchase decisions about goods and services. With a list of over 700 companies comprising our membership, more likely than not you will find what you are looking for. As corporate America looks to diversify its revenue stream, the LGBT market is increasing looked to for growth. The best way we can make the greatest impact is to speak with our pocketbooks and use Chamber Members whenever possible. The S.O.M.A. Membership Directory & Resource Guide is “Where to Shop, Stay and Play in South Florida!” You can obtain a copy at the MDGLCC’s office and LGBT Visitor Center located at 1130 Washington Avenue in Miami

Beach as well as in many high LGBT traffic locations in Miami-Dade & Broward. This amazing guide is provided with the generous support of Bacardi. And speaking of Bacardi, their Grey Goose Vodka brand will be featured at our next “Spotlight Mega-Mixer” Networking & Business EXPO on Thursday, Nov. 12 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the beautiful Sofitel Miami. The event is sponsored by Royal Caribbean. This is an opportunity mingle and network with over 150 Chamber members, guests and the community at large as well as leveraging of the “Business Cards Bulletin Board” and Chamber Ambassadors who will be present to answer inquiries and make introductions and connections. At this event there will be a free drawing for great prizes courtesy of various chamber members. Spinning by DJ / Producer Maximum 3000. Photography by Juan Saco Mironoff of Miami-Gay-Blog.com. Admission is Free for Chamber members and $20 for all others. RSVP at www. gaybizmiami.com, rsvp@gaybizmiami.com or 305-673-4440.

To become a member of the MDGLCC or to learn more about our members and calendar of events, please visit gaybizmiami.com or contact us at 305-673-4440 or email us as info@gaybizmiami.com.

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column publisher`s editorial

citY haLL haS a DutY to Make puBLic reStrooMS open to puBLic

Norm Kent

norm.kent@sfgn.com

ver a year ago, SFGN determined to launch a federal ADA access regulations, as well as state and local newspaper illuminating the life and times of Wilton codes. Manors, the emerging neighborhood epicenter of Demanding an explanation, I wrote to the mayor, LGBT life in South Florida. The Gazette was thus born, who promptly tasked the new city manager, Leigh first as a small, stand-alone newspaper, Ann Henderson, with providing me an and now as a twice-a-month journal, explanation. The timeliness of the response chronicling news and events in the gaywas appreciated, but the answer left me with a Yes, it may centric Manors. We are proud to have our Donald Trump-like shake of the head, saying rainbow flag raised permanently on the to myself: “You gotta be kidding me." seem like a steps of city hall. SFGN was officially told that "Upon opening small issue. Now SFGN sends a reporter to every City Hall, the restrooms on the second floor city commission meeting in Wilton of City Hall were open to the public. Those But I doubt Manors, and it covers social functions restrooms are single-occupant spaces it so for a and serious issues, from our parking and, unfortunately, on several occasions disabled problems to the city's deadly main drag, individuals walked in just prior to closing time the Drive. But we also share stories of and locked the restroom attempting to use it person businesses starting up and charities as overnight shelter. Therefore, for security trying to holding cake sales and canoe races. reasons, the restrooms were locked. However Ultimately, what this all means is that access has always been made available to any access public while SFGN serves three counties, and visitor upon request.” facilities. 75 cities, the Manors, as our hometown, There are two things wrong with that is subject to more scrutiny than most answer. First, it is not true. Asked to provide city commissions anywhere else in the a key on three occasions, twice individuals county, which leads us into this editorial. in the office said they did not know where one was, and Two weeks ago, visiting city hall to attend to a matter once, they indicated the bathroom was for employees only. in the Leisure Services office, I came upon a second floor Second, there is no public notice that keys are available bathroom directly adjacent to the public entryway. It was upon request. Instead, there is a specific directive that the locked. The sign read: 'Employees Only.' This is sheer public is not permitted to use the facilities; that they are nonsense, unacceptable, and probably directly violative of open only to employees. No one is going to ask for a key if

• 11.4.2015

they are being told up front they can’t have one if they are not employees. The sweet irony of this ‘Facilities Farce’ is that the restrooms causing this alleged and grievous security breach are directly appurtenant, adjacent to, and that means next to, the city police department’s locked secondfloor office. So I guess what the city of Wilton Manors is admitting to is that the city-hall-based police department can’t police city hall effectively. Let’s be serious for a moment. Yes, it may seem like a small issue. But I doubt it so for a disabled person trying to access public facilities. More than that, employees in public buildings may indeed have private offices which have facilities inaccessible to the public. But these ARE the public facilities, designed for the public, so we are not asking for cops to use the public restrooms. But the public damn well has a right too, and no lame excuse from the mayor or city manager changes that reality. No, we are not Ronald Reagan demanding that ‘wall be torn down.’ But those public bathrooms, built and mandated pursuant to federal, state, and city codes, had best be opened up immediately, or the city commissioners will have a new name in federal court: “defendant.” Somehow, asking the code compliance office to follow the rules they are duti-bound to enforce upon others does not seem to be an unreasonable request to enforce upon themselves. If they are having a ’security’ problem, I understand police assistance might be, oh, 20 feet away.

Gazette

Volume 2 • Issue 21 November 4, 2015

Wilton Manors

Twice-Monthly Neighborhood Outlook

Page 2 The Pink Triangle

Page 2 Rental Fee Changes

Page 3 Real Estate Geek

Page 4 New Senior Residences

Page 4 Support For Two-Lane Initiative

Community Business

Wilton Drive Safety Features Installed, More To Come By Michael d’Oliveira In their effort to improve pedestrian safety on Wilton Drive, new pedestrian signage has been installed near Northeast 20 Street and the crosswalk signal in front of city hall has been altered to respond faster when pedestrians bush the button.

The Florida Department of Transportation [FDOT], at the request of the city, will also install a crosswalk at Northeast 20 Street with rectangular flashing beacon signs. When FDOT was working on installing the crosswalk signal now in front of city hall, city officials asked that it be placed at Northeast 20 Street so that it would be more convenient to pedestrians. FDOT denied the request in favor of the current location. Asked why, FDOT officials said they thought the city hall spot would be the best location. Residents and business owners have continually spoken out in favor of moving the crosswalk. FDOT is also conducting a lighting survey of Wilton Drive and the city’s police department is conducting a "Traffic Safety Blitz" along Wilton Drive and Northeast 26 Street to ticket speeders. The speed limit on Wilton Drive is 30 miles per hour. WMG

Photo: Facebook.

Art

Inside Out Art Unveiling WMG Staff As part of the Inside Out art project, 50 blackand-white headshots of residents, business owners and community leaders will be installed on the front of Wilton Manors city hall. The

unveiling will be on Thursday, Nov. 5 at 9 a.m. Inside Out is part of Broward 100, the county’s centennial anniversary celebrations.WMG Photo: Facebook.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.WMGAZETTE.com • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 1 •

October 21, 2015

11.4.2015 •

Opinion

Gazette The Pink Triangle Wilton Manors

NOVEMBER 4, 2015 • VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 21

By Sal Torre

2520 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY • WILTON MANORS, FL 33305

Photo: Bundesarchiv, Bild.

PHONE: 954-530-4970 FAX: 954-530-7943

The Pink Triangle began under the Nazi reign of terror as a badge to identify homosexuals. As homosexuals were rounded up in Germany and later throughout Europe, this pink triangle was stitched on the prison uniform as homosexuals were sent to concentration camps. We all know the fate of millions of Jews, homosexuals, gypsies, and others whom the Third Reich decreed inferior as Nazi forces marched forward with devastating state-sponsored ethnic and moral cleansing. Originally intended as a badge of shame, the Pink Triangle was reclaimed by the LGBT community as an international symbol of gay pride, second only to the Rainbow Flag in popularity. Many in our community would like to see these two very popular symbols of LGBT pride somehow embraced by our city. Thoughts of a triangle and where to proudly display a flag leads me to only one spot along Wilton Drive. This perfect spot, known as the Iberia Bank Triangle, should become a city park dedicated to the LGBT community and its many achievements, accomplishments, and participation in our city’s government, our community, and our future. The triangular plot of land in front of the Iberia Bank has been long sought after by Wilton Manors Development Alliance and by our city, to create a public space at the entranceway to our city. This triangle could become Wilton Manors Pride Park, with the Rainbow flag flying proudly at the triangle-shaped gateway to our Arts & Entertainment District and into our city, a city that embraces diversity and brings together people who have built a wonderful community that looks to the future with open arms. The idea of flying the Rainbow flag along Wilton Drive recently gained momentum when our City Commission unanimously approved a motion put forth by Commissioner Justin Flippen and seconded by Mayor Gary Resnick, instructing our City Manager to identify places on city-owned property, or through public/private partnership, for a permanent display of the Rainbow flag. All agreed that the Rainbow flag should not be placed in front of City Hall with the official flags of our state and country, but rather somewhere along the Wilton Drive corridor. To keep this momentum rolling, I call upon our city and Iberia Bank to come together to make the Iberia Triangle into the Wilton Manors Pride Park Triangle. This unique piece of property has the potential to be transformed into something truly amazing! The small, irregularlyshaped lot with little commercial potential located right at the gateway of our city, at the tip of Five Points, can become Wilton Manors newest park, perhaps one with the greatest purpose. The shape, a triangle, can be highlighted to represent the history of the LGBT movement, the

Community

PUBLISHER • NORM KENT NORM.KENT@SFGN.COM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER • PIER ANGELO GUIDUGLI ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER / EXECUTIVE EDITOR • JASON PARSLEY JASON.PARSLEY@SFGN.COM

Editorial

ART DIRECTOR • BRENDON LIES ARTWORK@SFGN.COM ONLINE PRODUCER • DENNIS JOZEFOWICZ DENNIS.JOZEFOWICZ@SFGN.COM EDITORIAL ASSISTANT • JILLIAN MELERO JILLIANMELERO@GMAIL.COM NEWS EDITOR • MICHAEL D’OLIVEIRA

Correspondents

NATALYA JONES • JOHN MCDONALD • JAMES OAKSUN

Staff Photographers

J.R. DAVIS • POMPANO BILL • STEVEN SHIRES

Rainbow flag flying high and proud at the tip of the triangle welcoming all to our city, and the additional open space used as a setting for major pieces of public art depicting the diversity and strength of our city and our community. This investment by our city, in partnership with the local business community, can serve as a catalyst to bring desired major public art installations to the Drive. The local LGBT community can raise funds to commission a powerful significant work of art to be installed at the new Pride Park Triangle. “Putting the Arts into the Arts & Entertainment District,” has long been a battle cry of many a local organizations and residents who recognize the lack of and the need for works of art installed along Wilton Drive. This project can be the beginning of something wonderful that will benefit our city, our community and our local business community for years to come. The concept of Pride Park Triangle is my own, just an opinion, but one I hope others might embrace, develop, and even improve. There are many other opinions on where the Rainbow flag should be placed, and a lively debate on this issue will definitely take place as we move forward. However, in the end, we must come together, as the Rainbow flag signifies, as one community of many, to make this dream we call Wilton Manors a very special somewhere under the rainbow. And that is why…..life is just better here!! WMG

Residential Rental Fee Goes Up, Alarm System Fee Goes Down

Sales & Marketing

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

Associated Press

By Michael d’Oliveira In a mix of local government action and state-mandated requirements, two city fees are changing: the residential rental fee has been increased from $20 to $50 and the permits for hardwired alarms have decreased from $55 to $40. The fees were altered during the Oct. 27 commission meeting. The state legislature required the decrease in the alarm fees. City staff estimate revenue from the fee will only be decreased by $100 a year.

“This is another example of state intrusion into local government. But it won’t involve an impact to income, so why not?” said Commissioner Tom Green. The residential rental fee, increased because of the city commission, is a yearly fee charged to landlords for every tenant they have. It’s estimated that the increase will raise about $55,000 a year. City Manager Leigh Ann Henderson said the last time the fee was raised was 1995. WMG

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November 4, 2015

local name global coverage

November 4, 2015 vol. 6 // issue 44

Photo: J.R. Davis.

s o u t h f l o r i d a g a y n e w s annual bars & clubs issue

Nights out Bars, booze, men in tights and more SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS

SOFLAGAYNEWS

SFGN.COM

bars & clubs publisher

A Salute to Bars and Nightclubs Norm Kent

et’s face it. Nightclubs, bars and hospitality establishments catering to the LGBT community were, in the past, the epicenter of all LGBT life across the country. It was in gay bars that you could truly ‘come out’ and find yourself, discovering that you had many people ‘just like you.’ It may have been that the bars were seedy and in dark places, off the main streets, years ago. Anyone walking on Wilton Drive last Saturday for Halloween knows that is not so now. The mainstream establishment has often censored gay bars for their drugs, sexuality, and extreme party atmosphere. The excesses may be there, but it was fundamentally a homophobic response and factually misleading. You see, long before there were pride centers in local communities for the gay community to gather, there were nightclubs to meet in. These were the places where you could be yourself; grow into the person you had hidden for so long. When entertainers were cutting edge, like a Bette Midler or Liza Minnelli, gay bars were the places that gave them a base to share their comedy and music. When you sought to dance, to let it all out, to just sweat

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the night away, it was gay discos and circuit parties that enabled you to tear away the white collars and unleash the black leather. When you were alone and had nowhere to go, and you wanted to meet someone just like yourself, it was the quiet gay piano bars that gave you a chance to maybe meet someone in what was otherwise a very lonely world. When you were a young kid trying to come out and meet someone, and your parents would not talk to you, and you couldn’t talk to your friends at home, or teachers in school, it was at a gay bar that you could meet someone, have a drink and help you understand who you were. It was a day when counseling centers did not exist; electro-shock therapy did. When you learned about the HIV crisis ripping at the heart and the soul of the gay community, it was the gay bar owners who opened up their doors for fund raisers and community forums, organizing legions of gay men to fight for their lives. Such was the case in South Florida, where the very first meeting of the original AIDS advocacy agency, CenterOne, was held in the lobby of the Marlin Beach Hotel and Bar on the Fort Lauderdale Beach in 1984. It was also the gay bars that gave drag queens a chance to perform, to showcase their personalities and professionalism; that allowed them to show you can be unapologetically expressive of your sexuality. Today, there are charitable pageants that celebrate that individuality. From the early days of the Rooftop Café and John Castelli’s Tangerine, to Bar Amici and now Rosie’s or

bars & clubs publisher

liFe is a series oF ComiNgs aND goiNgs, aND For everythiNg you taKe With you, there is somethiNg you leave BehiND. Beefcakes, a cottage industry of gay restaurants have also emerged, actively involved in entrepreneurial ventures. These businesses also have been instrumental in providing employment opportunities for gay men and women. Of course, it would be foolish not to acknowledge that the very same gay bars, which opened the doors to your inner self, have led to hedonistic evenings of alcoholic excess and drug abuse, from poppers to pills. Ultimately though, we are each responsible for what we put in our own body, from pizza to penises. We should not be blaming bars because you could not find your own limits. The world is yours to create with every decision you make every day, from what you eat to who you do. The bars, like other businesses, come and go. We have had many. The Ramrod, the longest running bar in South Florida, with the same ownership- partners Zak Enterline and Steve Whitney- has a beautiful ‘tombstone’ exhibit of ‘dead bars’ in their rather unique establishment. We lost a few more this year. Others will emerge. Life is a series of comings and goings, and for everything you take with you, there is something you leave behind. Last year, it was Johnny’s; this year, Le Boy. Once there was a Coliseum, and now there is a Manor. Once, there was a Chardee’s and a Bill’s Filling Station. Next year, it will be something else. One thing is for sure. The bar owners will do more than

pour drinks. They will play an altruistic role within our community, supporting honorable causes and reaching out to help others. Like Nick Beri or Paul Hugo, they will find a place on city zoning boards. Like Victor Zepka, they will run a not for profit pageant or host a memorial service. Like Jackson Padgett did at Alibi, they will support community functions like Taste of the Island, or as Mark Hunter just did last weekend, underwrite Wicked Manors. Like Toni Barone once did with the Sea Monster and the End Up, so too does Carol Moran with 13 Even, hosting last week the Wilton Manors Business Association. SFGN can’t write everything everyone does everywhere, but we salute all of you who own our bars, nightclubs, and hospitality establishments. We have seen how you have underwritten Pride Fort Lauderdale, Stonewall, and similar events in Lake Worth, Palm Beach and Miami Dade. We have seen how you are sometimes even taxed and tortured by the requests to hold a benefit or fundraiser or support a charitable cause somewhere somehow. And we salute you for doing so, time and time again, year after year. Finally, as a newspaper publisher, we are happy to offer you media sponsorships and discounted rates to promote those events, because they lend credence and conscience to who we are and what we stand for. We are all in this together.

R.I.P.

TO THOSE WHOSE LAST DRINKS HAVE POURED 2014 - 2015

Bill’s FiliNg statioN JohNNy’s sWiNgiNg riCharDs siDeliNes the staBle the Drive gregarious Bar DisCoteKKa eros louNge

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The Manor

Photo: Dennis Jozefowicz.

Hunters Fort Lauderdale

2232 WiltoN Drive WiltoN maNors 954-630-3556

huNtersFtlauDerDale.Com FaCeBooK.Com/huNtersFl

unters Nightclub is an awesome vibe on the drive that will get you shaking your booty on the weekends, and relaxing during the week. The lounge side is a flavor of greater taste and sophistication, serving up libations

surrounded by the sound of music videos, or a live DJ, while the dance floor side is a little bit louder, and with a great new lighting package, making it a much more energized dance experience. Their motto is “Spirits Elevated,” and they certainly live up to it. Weekly events include Lounge’o’Matic Wednesday with light house music during happy hour by DJ Chuck Knowels, while DJ SOL supplies the music for “Fur Fridays”, an early evening bear gathering from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. A personal favorite for many is the ultimate in disco, the Classic 54 Hi Tea Dance, Sundays from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., featuring the best in disco played by none other than DJ Richie Rich. Check their web site and Facebook page for a complete guide to their weekly and special events. – DJ

2345 WiltoN Drive WiltoN maNors 954-626-0082

themaNorComPlex.Com FaCeBooK.Com/maNorComPlex

pen on Friday and Saturday nights until 4 a.m., The Manor Complex is a piece of authentic South Florida club scene that’s right in our own back yard, in the heart of Wilton Manors. The property, (and yes, we can call it a “property” it’s that big,) consists of indoor and outdoor spaces like none other in town.

The multi-level “Epic Nightclub” is a scene right out of Hollywood, with massive speakers, world class DJ’s, and entertainers on the stage. VIP booths and bottle service are available for up to 15 people. And lets not forget the huge dance floor, featuring a new, out of this world light setup, hosting the “Bubblegum Fridays” and “Epic Saturdays” themes! Inside is like another nightclub inside a nightclub, the “Ultralounge” hosts the famous “Noche Latina Saturdays,” a local institution celebrating over 17 years, with the best in Latin music and entertainment in South Florida. And even more, another lounge area is here with a more traditional “bar” feel. The place is big, and it get’s packed! Special events and performances happen on a regular basis. Check their Facebook and web pages for the latest happenings. – DJ

2184 WiltoN Drive WiltoN maNors 754-223-3619 iNFiNitylouNgeFl.Com

FaCeBooK.Com/iNFiNitylouNgeFl

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sk anyone in the area where to go for good martinis, and more often than not, Infinity Lounge is the local favorite that everyone seems to answer. Designed with an industrial elegance of polished concrete and sparkling chandeliers, this is definitely a place that screams “upscale” without the attitude. The feel of the casual, yet sophisticated ambience, combined with a wide variety of martinis, (many served with creative fresh ingredients…) featured cocktails, and friendly staff, make it a great place to loosen

Bars & CluBs

up before or after a special date. It’s also a great place to visit regularly to wind down after a long day at the office. (Nothing says “relax” like a good tropical martini!) The interior is intimate, and there is outdoor seating on the front sidewalk. Along with their cocktails, they also carry many wines and craft beers. Happy Hour is every day from 3 to 9 p.m., plus other specials. Check their Facebook regularly for updated specials and highlighted drinks! – DJ

Photo: Dennis Jozefowicz.

Inﬁnity Lounge

Spread em... 2-4-1 11am to 9pm, 50% OFF ITB (Must show recent pay stub). $3 Margaritas, $6 Burger and Hot Dogs ALL DAY.

2-4-1 11am to 9pm, Poker 7pm - 11pm. After 9pm enjoy $2 Domestics, $2.50 Imports and $5 Absolut. Taco Tuesday Buffet 4pm-10pm 2-4-1 11am to 9pm, College Night (9pm-CL) $1 Well drinks, $1 Domestic Drafts, $4 SKYY Cocktails, Karaoke 6pm to 10pm.

2-4-1 OPEN TO CLOSE, LADIES NIGHT, Karaoke 9pm - 2am, Ladies receive 15% OFF food bill 9pm to close.

2-4-1 11am - 9pm. After 9pm enjoy $5 Jager & Fireball Shots, $3 Long Island Iced Teas and Beat the Clock Beer Bust at 9pm 50 cent draft, 10pm 75 cent draft, 11pm $1 Draft till midnight. Daisy Deadpetals Show @11pm & 12am. 2-4-1 11am - 9pm, $5 Bacardi Cocktails, $10 Bacardi Buckets. $5 Jose Cuervo & Cuervo Cinge. DJ JOSHUA ATOM

$2.50 Mimosas & Bloody Mary’s 11am-5pm. Bottoms Up Beer Buckets Mix & Match 5 Domestics for $6 or 5 imports for $12 and $5 Stoli Cocktails. .69 cent wings 10am-10pm.

EVERY SUNDAY 10AM - 3PM ONLY $16.00, INCLUDES 1ST BLOODY MARY OR MIMOSA Kitchen Open: Sun 10am - 11pm. Mon, Tues 11am - 11pm. Wed thru Sat 11am - 1am

954.565.8851 • 2426 Wilton Drive • www.rumorsbarwiltonmanors.com

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Photo: Dennis Jozefowicz.

Village Pub

Scandals Saloon S

2283 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 754-200-5244 VillagePubWM.com

n just three years, Village Pub has become a staple on the drive as an all-around community bar filled with friendly, well-known staff and entertainment. With a full schedule of shows and happenings with familiar faces, this is a not-miss stop any time of the week. Entertainment includes Misty Eyez and Dragicide Mondays at 10 p.m., 2 Guys on A Mic Karaoke Wednesdays at 9 p.m., and Retro T-Dance Sundays 4-9 p.m. featuring Billboard Reporting DJ Bill Hallquist. Their 2-4-1 Happy Hour is Monday through Saturday until 9 p.m. The space includes a 400 square foot dance floor, lots of TV’s, and a covered outdoor area in the back for smokers. They also offer valet parking in the rear.

3073 NE 6th Ave Wilton Manors 954-567-2432 ScandalsFla.com

candals Saloon is South Florida’s only gay country bar, offering generous cocktails, with happy hour prices daily until 9 p.m., and all day Sunday, and happenings throughout the week. Friday and Saturday nights have an open dance floor for country two stepping and line dancing starting at 9 p.m. till close. Fridays on the patio is “Bearaoke” with 2 Guys on a Mic from 7-11 p.m. The large outdoor patio also brings DJ’s on Saturday nights starting at 9 p.m., and for Evolution T-dance from 4 till 11 p.m. Sundays at 9 p.m. till 1 a.m., 2-Guys-On-A-Mic also run the Sunday session of karaoke. Country dance lessons are from Tuesday through Thursday evenings starting at 7 p.m. (Thursdays at 7:30,), and Mondays are glamorous with The Country Queens show starting at 8:30 p.m. It’s a large bar with a neighborhood feel you’re sure to enjoy, and is a great place to gather with friends, or meet new ones. And don’t forget to say hi to Russell at the new “Stable @ Scandals” bar on the patio.

- DJ

2426 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-565-8851

RumorsBarWiltonManors.com http://on.fb.me/1GkMLCC

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umors Bar and Grill is quite a strong contender in the scene that fits the bill as an everyday video bar and gathering place that has a different special or theme every day. Inside, and now under their new covered patio, Hobo’s Grill serves up your favorite bar cuisine, but we hear the Alligator Bites are quite the awesome, popular “go-to.” Their Happy Hour 2-for-1 is Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Thursdays from open-toclose, which is also “Lady’s Night.” This bar also has a jukebox, pool table,

Bars & Clubs

DJs, karaoke in the “Red Room” Wednesdays from 6 to 10 p.m., and weekly entertainment, including The Daisy Deadpetals Show, Fridays at 11 p.m. and 12 a.m. Other happenings include Sunday Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s specially priced from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays has the After Dark High Energy Dance Party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Check their websites for a full calendar of regular events, latest bar ads, and Hobo’s food menu. And don’t forget their Facebook page for daily happenings.

- DJ

Photo: Dennis Jozefowicz.

Rumors Bar and Grill

bars & clubs bartenders BAR/CLUB WHERE EM

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Fort Dix

STATS: 44 years old; single; born in Michigan raised in West Palm Tending bar in Palm Beach Co Beach. unty for over 20 years. HOMETOWN: West Palm Beach

Dale Ludwig fort dix

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Cubby Hole T

823 N Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954-728-9001 TheCubbyHole.com

he Cubby Hole is another great example of the local neighborhood bar scene, (or should I say, bear scene,) as it prides itself as “The best little butch bar in Fort Lauderdale.” Being close to downtown Fort Lauderdale, this place gets a great daytime lunch crowd all week long. And they serve pretty darn good food to boot, such as burgers and fries, munchies, and more, all day until 8:30 p.m. But don’t be fooled, they’re nighttime crowd is just as good. They have different themed drink specials throughout the week after their daily happy hour, which is until 9 p.m. Examples of weekly fare include Underwear Night, Bare Bear Chest Night, and more. They have a pool table, jukebox, and smoking is permitted. Be sure to check their Facebook page for the most up-to-the-minute happenings, and their website for more information.

- DJ

Photo: Dennis Jozefowicz.

Tropics Piano Bar and Restaurant

2000 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-537-6000 TropicsWM.com

Facebook.com/TropicsPianoBar

ropics has been serving the more mature patrons in our community for more than 20 years, with its great mix of food, spirits, personalities, and entertainment. Though, these days, you

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will find all sorts of people visiting this Wilton Manors institution. The restaurant is a great place to have a date, or to enjoy one of the many weekly specials. The most popular include 2-for-1 meal menus on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Prime Rib night on Wednesdays. After your meal, grab a space at one of the three bars on the property for cocktails and entertainment. Tropics has a full schedule of entertainment from piano-lounge standards to drag performances. Check out their website or Facebook page with the full daily schedule of entertainment, and check out their restaurant menus. Restaurant reservations are highly suggested via phone or their website.

- DJ

1243 Ne 11th ave. Fort lauDerDale 954-368-8786 leBoytoNight.Com

Le Boy

f it is young well-built dancers you seek then look no further than Le Boy. The nightclub caters to a mostly gay male clientele. It has an international flavor as many of the dancers claim foreign roots. Owner Sean David moved his operations from Johnny’s on Broward Blvd. in downtown Fort Lauderdale into what old timers may remember as the former home of Bill’s Filling Station. At Le Boy, David promises a personalized experience. “We offer the best VIP service

with hot international male models on stage,” David said. The club routinely advertises a model search for cash prizes and encourages young, well built men to demonstrate their moves. There is an inside area with stages and an outside patio where patrons can find drink specials, gourmet food options and friendly bartenders. For high rollers, Le Boy offers a VIP package and valet parking service. There is no cover charge, but patrons must be age 21 and over.

- JmD

Photo: Facebook.

bars & clubs broward

Boardwalk Bar 1721 N. aNDreWs ave. Fort lauDerDale 954-463-6969 BoarDWalKBar.Com

Photos: Facebook.

pen since 2002, Boardwalk Bar is known for keeping things hot with their male strippers. The dancers get on stage every night with drag queens serving as MCs for a night of good looking guys and plenty of laughs. But that’s not all the bar has to offer – there are drink specials every night and on Fridays and Saturdays, male entertainers 30 and older take over the show. Plus, If you’re looking for delicious bites, owner Victor Zepka has got you covered with their dining option, Beefcake’s Grills, serving burgers, wraps, salads and more with daily specials.

- Cl

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osie’s Bar and Grill is one of the most popular places in town for casual food and drink for tons of reasons. With its open interior, and shaded outdoor seating, it’s a great place to enjoy the local tropical weather year round. Though there is single seating at the bar, most people come here on dates or in groups, and is a great place to celebrate a small birthday party, or even bring your straight friends. The atmosphere and staff are very happy and up-beat, and the food and drinks are fantastic. The menu is themed, unique and fun, with options like “Rhoda Cowboy”, their BBQ bacon cheddar cheeseburger, or the “Young

2449 WiltoN Drive WiltoN maNors, Fl 954-563-0123 rosiesBNg.Com

FaCeBooK.Com/rosiesBaraNDgrill

Ranch Hand,” a grilled chicken breast sandwich with bacon, Swiss, lettuce, tomato and ranch dressing. But there is much more than just sandwiches. There’s “Big Girl Plates”, (full meals…) “Bowls of Stuff”, (variety of specialty salads…) and even a “Skinny Girl Menu.” There really is something for everyone here, with a variety of main ingredients featured, such as shrimp, chicken, beef, and more. Happy hour is Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., as well as many other drink specials throughout the week. Their full menu is available online at their website.

- DJ

Monkey Business Bar

Photo: Dennis Jozefowicz.

Photo: Facebook.

Shannon and Anthony´s Corner Pub

Photo: Dennis Jozefowicz.

Rosie`s Bar and Grill

1915 N. aNDreWs aveNue WiltoN maNors 954-564-7335 CorNerPuBBar.Com

FaCeBooK.Com/shaNNoNaNthoNysCorNerPuB

eighborhood bars are not dead, not by a long shot. And for over 5 years, Shannon and Anthony’s Corner Pub is just one of the bunch that thrive in our area. Happy hour is

every day from opening until 9:30 p.m., and there are themed drink specials and events going on every day of the week. Being one of the many bars that host the local gay bar pool league on Tuesday nights, Corner Pub has 2 pool tables, as well as a jukebox, and TVs. Be sure to watch out for annual events and fundraisers, this place does a lot of community fundraising and gatherings that aren’t on the typical gay radar. Smoking is permitted, and they are open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. - 2 a.m., Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 a.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. – 2 a.m.

2740 N. aNDreWs ave. WiltoN maNors 954-514-7819 FaCeBooK.Com/moNKeyBusiNessBar

or those who like to monkey around in a relaxed environment, this is the spot for you. Monkey Business Bar offers a friendly neighborhood vibe with inexpensive drinks, especially for South Florida. The locale features a small stage, TVs, cute bartenders, and drink specials for just under three bucks a pop. Monkey Business has an outdoor patio area but smoking is allowed inside as well. Things liven up for the weekly karaoke fun on Wednesday nights. See if you can take the stage and belt out your best version of “Turn the Beat Around.” Every Friday night is a different theme show, from Broadway to Disco to Cabaret and more. The frequent drag performances provide hot, sensual entertainment for your weekend enjoyment. Open seven days a week from 8 a.m. – 2 a.m.

- DJ - Jm

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The Alibi 2266 WiltoN Drive WiltoN maNors 954-565-2526

aliBiWiltoNmaNors.Com

FaCeBooK.Com/aliBi.WiltoNmaNors

Photo: Dennis Jozefowicz.

he Alibi in Wilton Manors continues to carry on it traditions, while picking up a bunch of new nights this year. Opening in 1997, owner Jonny Pak of The Monkey Bar – Ptown, has proven that Alibi’s going to be here for years to come, bringing you a great mix of food, drink, and entertainment. The outdoor patio is a great place for sharing a meal in the fabulous South Florida weather with friends. Go inside for tasty cocktails, mingle with the crowd, enjoy the music videos and dance on their new dance floor. There are food and drink specials every day. Happy Hour (2-for-1) is Monday through Friday until 9 p.m. The locally famous “Long Island Iced Tea Night” is on Thursdays starting at 9 p.m. Sundays at 11:30 is Tranny Palace with Misty Eyez. And Fridays at 9 p.m., “Growl” bear night continues as it’s made it’s new home here. And there’s tons more. Check out their web site and Facebook page for a complete listing of all their weekly events. – DJ

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bars & clubs bartenders

Brock Lee

RE EMPLOYED: BAR/CLUB WHE H.G. Roosters arts from tting an associate of urs ge , gle sin , old ars ye gh Th day at STATS: 29 ge. Love Sunday throu lle Co ate St h ac Be Palm Roosters a by way of Arlington, NJ HOMETOWN: Florid CKTAIL: FAVORITE COse rved with a SIGNATURE OR ce jui r with lime ve Sil o erv Cu : ita ‘R y Skinn salt rim and fresh lime. UR BAR: TY/EVENT AT YO VI TI AC TE RI lissa St. John. Me VO th FA osters wi Ro for se ca ow Sh ht nig Saturday and riding Swimming/sun bathing S: IE BB HO S/ ST INTERE his motorcycle ARITIES: VOLVEMENT/CH d to COMMUNITY IN PBSC, a group committe at a pp Ka ta Be i Ph of Member , and other programs volunteering for parades

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Born in St. Thom

BAR/CLUB WHERE Rumors Bar & Grill EMPLOYED:

STATS: I am 28 years old and

going on 2 years with the ma dreams, Steve Aniello. I hav e the privilege of working along sidn of my him at Rumors. We met there, e bec am e friends, and the rest just fell with place. into

HOMETOWN: Nashville, TN SIGNATURE OR

/ Fort Lauderdale

Signature Drink is my refresh FAVORITE COCKTAIL: ing Cherry Limeade Martini. Skyy Cherry Vodka, juice from It is made with dash of grenadine for color and freshly muddled limes, sour mix and a a hint of sweetness.

FAVORITE ACTIVITY

favorite event of the year is /EVENT AT YOUR BAR: My up and out just to have a gooHalloween. I love to see everyone dressed d time. The energy is always great!

TERESTS/HOBBIE places I've never been to bef S: I love traveling and experiencing ore. I'm always down for an adventure!

COMMUNITY INVOLV

I'm fortunate enough to wo EMENT/CHARITIES: employees love to be inv rk for a company who the owners and charities. We have a hand inolved with the community and different My favorite is always the Pov many events and fundraisers year round. erello Bowl-a-thon.

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Back in high school I was alwst in g Fa ct oi ds : ays involv use my talent to dance to Brited in plays and musicals. Now I ney Spears at work.

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t yler wright

bars & clubs broward

“W

2440 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-533-4916

ProgressBarSouthFlorida.com

ithout deviation from the norm, PROGRESS is not

possible.” Wilton Drive’s “hot new club,” now a year old, is part of a chain of gay bars that began somewhere else. The first Progress Bar opened in Chicago’s “Boystown” a year ago, and was soon followed by the Phoenix Bar and Night Club in the Chicago suburbs near O’Hare Airport. Wilton Manor’s Progress Bar is located at the site of the nowdefunct New Moon Lounge, in its day the Drive’s only lesbian bar. Justin Romme, General Manager of Progress Bar at the time that it opened, described Progress as “beautiful yet welcoming,” “nonpretentious,” and “a fun place to come.” Though Progress is primarily a gay men’s bar, it welcomes women who still yearn for the old days at

the New Moon. Like its Chicago counterparts, Progress Bar promises its patrons “a unique blend of talent that creates the incredible Progress Bar experience,” with “an expansive floor plan” that includes a well-decorated main bar, with TV screens that show the latest music videos, and “the nicest Patio Bar on the Drive.” Progress Bar, which just celebrated its first anniversary with an Alice in Wonderland Party, is now hotter than ever. Among its weekly activities are “Circuit Saturdays,” “Spill the Tea Sundays,” and “Lip Service Wednesdays.” On Fridays DJ Auden Brown is on hand, spinning the hits all night long. Hours: Mon. - Thur. 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Fri. – Sat. 2 p.m. - 3 a.m.; Sun. 1 p.m. - 2 a.m. - JM

Photo: Facebook.

Progress Bar

Smarty Pants

Photo: Facebook.

marty Pants is “the oldest ‘alternative lifestyle’ bar in Fort Lauderdale,” according to owner Mark Tison, having served our community for more than 30 years. Before Tison bought and renamed the bar in September 2003, it was The Bushes; before that it was Little Jim’s; and before that it was Simba’s Lounge: a “gay speakeasy” where closeted gays would gather discretely to drink and socialize. Today Smarty Pants continues to be a home away from home for many gay men. Tison called it “the ‘Cheers’ of Fort Lauderdale, where everyone knows your name.” Smarty Pants regulars are fiercely loyal, and most would not go anywhere else. Tison and his staff return the favor, keeping most of their regulars’ names and phone numbers on file. Even when a regular moves out of town he maintains his ties. According to Tison, all a regular has to do when he comes back to visit is to call Smarty Pants ahead of time and he and his staff will be at the bar, waiting for his arrival. Smarty Pants attracts a variety of gay men, along with a few women. (“We are straight-friendly and lesbian-friendly.”) It is a

full liquor bar but beer is most regulars’ drink of choice. It allows smoking but also employs two smoke eaters which allows us to breathe. Smarty Pants’ most popular feature is its daily Happy Hour, which runs until 8 pm every night. It hosts Vodka Night from 10 pm to 2 am Tuesday; Underwear Night from 10 pm to 2 am Wednesday; Trivia Night, hosted by the legendary Nikki Adams, from 6 to 9 pm Thursday; and Karaoke Zone, hosted by Don Casteel, from 9 pm to 1 am Friday and Saturday. Smarty Pants is also famous for its Special Event Weekends. Its most recent Special Event was its 12th Anniversary Weekend, held from Sept. 16 to 20. It featured, in addition to the regular weekly events, a Special “Showgirls” Show on Sept. 18 and a Flamingo Auto Group Classic Car Show and cookout on Sept. 20. Hours: Mon. – Thur. 9 a.m. - 2 a.m.; Fri. 9 a.m. - 3 a.m.; Sat. 8 a.m. - 3 a.m.; Sun. noon-2 am

2400 East Oakland Park Blvd. #101 Fort Lauderdale 954-561-1724 SmartyPantsbar.com

– JM

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Naked Grape Wine Bar 2163 WiltoN Drive WiltoN maNors 954-563-5631

NaKeDgraPeWiNeBar.Com

Photo: Dennis Jozefowicz.

emember Cheers - the TV bar where everyone knows your name? The Naked Grape Wine Bar on Wilton Drive may be as close as our area gets. The bar, which has been in business for eight years, serves a diverse crowd. “We offer a comfortable, relaxed, cozy environment where people can talk with their partners, friends, or co-workers. The vibe is intimate without the disruption of TV or overly loud music. We often think of it as a "conversation bar," a place to relax and catch-up with those special people in your life. At night, the lights are low and the candles are lit to create an intimate environment. We also have a covered outdoor patio that is pet-friendly. It's a great spot to ‘people watch’ along the Drive,” said owners Caleb Ben-Avram and Tim Slivinski. The most popular wines by far are any of the red blends. Currently a red blend called "Saved" is very popular, followed closely by the Marietta Cellars Old Vine Red Blend and The Tentacle. Naked Grape also offers an amazing artisan cheese list as well as fresh, made to order tapas offerings. Everything is made fresh to order. The best nights to go are Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.

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- Jm

• 11.4.2015

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Ramrod

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502 E. Sunrise Blvd. Fort Lauderdale 954-525-6662 MonasBar.com 16bg

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1508 NE 4th Ave. Fort Lauderdale 954-763-8219 RamrodBar.com

week starts off Tuesday night with Lips’ Dragalicious show. Wednesday night is Bitchy Bingo. Thursday try Dinner with the Divas. Friday night is Diva’s Glitz and Glamour Review with an encore performance on Saturday. Sunday enjoy your Gospel Brunch or Dine with the Divas Sunday night. Besides the meal, there's a show charge that ranges from $5 to $10. There’s also a $15 per person food minimum at all tables. Saturday prime time shows require a $29 prix fix dinner for all guests but for Saturday’s late night show, the $15 minimum may include food or drink. Reservations are recommended for everyone; they are required for large groups. – JM

During the day, it’s your typical neighborhood butch bar, with a 2-for-1 happy hour that lasts from 3 p.m. until 9 p.m. They have a patio bar that opens at 6 p.m., and a different theme every night of the week. Notable nights include the insane LEATHER/Fetish/gear Fridays with world famous DJ Herbie James, Saturdays are “Packed to the Rafters,” bringing caged hunks dancing at midnight, “Rock Hard Undies Night” on Tuesdays brings rock music and men in underwear, and lots more. Of course, smoking is permitted, and cigars and pipes are very common! Hugely popular monthly events include “Pig Dance” on the first Saturday of the month, and Enforced Dress Code (EDC) on the patio every third Sunday of the month 9 p.m. to midnight. Check out their website for a full schedule, and their Facebook page for daily happenings and announcements.

Facebook.com/RamrodFortLauderdale

very major city has a leather/Levi/ uniform bar, and here in South Florida, ours is the Ramrod. Located just a few blocks south on Wilton Drive, which turns into 4th Avenue, Ramrod is everything you would expect. It’s dark, edgy, they have a DJ seven nights a week, it’s quite loud, and it’s packed with sweaty shirtless men.

– DJ

Mona`s T

here might be a number of neighborhood bars to get a drink after a long day, but Mona’s has had a loyal following for 18 years. Located by the train tracks and emblazoned with a friendly pup on the outside, owner Jerry Schultz gives away a free drink to the person who picks the right number whenever the train goes by. Schultz has worked to create a sense of community at Mona’s with its annual fundraiser in the

Bars & Clubs

name of a late manager, Pet Project, as well as pet pageants, AIDS Walk fundraisers, adoption days, cookouts, and more. Perhaps the most highly anticipated event is the day after Christmas, where with the purchase of a drink, customers can choose a wrapped item from the back patio that Schultz collected from garage sales over the year – he hides cash in the gifts too! – CL

Photo: Facebook.

obody goes to Lips to eat, but the food may surprise you. The drag cabaret and restaurant is famous for its over the top shows and frozen cosmos. Differently themed shows are performed six nights a week. But the crowd favorite is Lips’ gospel brunch every Sunday with service at 11 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. “Our host Nicolette is the funniest!” says Lips Manager Sean Engler. Lips is a favorite for large groups celebrating bachelorette parties, birthdays or other special occasions. “Any sort of celebration,” said Engler. Expect some big laughs while you eat and drink. With performers including Miss Twat Larouge and Misty Eyez, what else would you expect? Those shows are the real reason you go to Lips. The

Photo: Facebook.

1421 E Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale 954-567-0987 LipsFla.com

Photo: Facebook.

Lips Restaurant

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Funky Buddha FunkyBuddhaBrewery.com

and inviting the whole community out to try the newest pours. Food trucks are a mainstay outside on the street, and other special events include Om Brew Yoga sessions, trivia nights, yappy hours for pet owners, and weekend tours of the 40,000-square-foot brewery for just $5 (you get to keep your Funky Buddha glass too!). Photo: Facebook.

1201 NE 38th St. Oakland Park 954-440-0046

he second location of the Funky Buddha name (the original bar is in Boca Raton), at just a few years old the brewery has become the place to be for lovers of craft beer — and pride. Although not a traditional gay bar, the first Tuesday of every month has evolved from a Bears for Beers night to an LGBT mixer – Proud to be Funky. The popular craft beer bar is constantly bringing in new local flavors, celebrating with tap parties

– CL

PJ`s Cocks & Tails/ PJ`s Corner Pocket Photo: Facebook.

Photo: Facebook.

2340 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-368-5516

PJsCornerPocket.com

ubbed Fort Lauderdale’s only “interracial club,” this venue is touted as the first Black owned and run bar in Wilton Manors. The bar has an open-minded vibe in which all walks of life are welcome. Inside, is a relaxing lounge where the music won’t dominate your conversation. Want to get philosophical with that cutie you just

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Gym Sports Bar

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met on a cushy couch? PJ’s Cocks & Tails is a good choice. This full-service bar opened in January 2014, and has exposed concrete walls with an artsy and loft like feel. A (free) membership is required before entry, you can sign up at the door or on the PJs website. Happy hour happens from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Theme nights and drink specials rotate throughout the week. Shoot some pool on Tuesday team night and enjoy $2 Millers. Wednesday is dance night with $3 Coronas. Come for Chocolate Thursday’s male entertainers and $5 Cosmos. The male entertainers are back Friday and Saturday for 9 p.m. shows. TGIF, you can also enjoy $3 drink specials all night. Saturday it’s old-school vs. new school dance night. Sunday’s karaoke night starts at 8 p.m. with $3 drink specials during happy hour. - JM

Bars & Clubs

Gym Sports Bar 2287 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-368-5318

ick Schmutzler understands the role sports play in our lives. “It’s a great way for community building,” said Schmutzler, a former collegiate all-conference football player who has made a successful transition to the business world. In August, Schmutzler opened Gym Sports Bar in Wilton Manors, bringing what has become a successful model in New York and Los Angeles to South Florida.

“I have amazing investors who know what makes a good bar,” Schmutzler said. At the new Wilton Drive location, visitors can expect a casual environment to meet friends for drinks, chat with friendly bartenders and watch athletes tussle on television. There is a menu as well with food items ranging from burgers to wings to corn dogs. “It’s your typical sports bar except it’s gay,” said Schmutzler, a Minnesota native, who played wide receiver at Concordia College in St. Paul. Schmutzler said the bar is actively involved in the community through sponsorships of flag football, softball and kickball teams. He is also planning to host events featuring well known out sports stars. Hours: Opens at 4 p.m. Monday through Friday; Noon on Saturdays and Sundays. Closes at 2 a.m. Sunday through Thursday; 3 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays. – JMD

bars & clubs bartenders BAR/CLUB WHERE EM

PLOYED:

Smarty Pants

STATS: 52 and single

Billy “Sunshine”

HOMETOWN: Thomasville, GA SIGNATURE OR FAVO RITE CO RUM CHATA MARTINI CKTAIL: 2 parts Rum Chata 1 part vanilla vodka ½ part Frangelico FAVORITE ACTIVITY Trivia Night with Nikki Adam/EVENT AT YOUR BAR: s INTERESTS/HOBBIES: Water skiing and horseback ridi

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Terrell Fultz

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The Mad Hatter Lounge

he Mad Hatter Lounge is the last gay bar in Lake Worth. There used to be several and many downtown. No more. Ron Amodio and Tim Rice bought the bar in December 2012. Since then, it’s gotten a facelift both inside and out. With lighter walls and softer lighting inside and some plants with flags and decor on the outside, there’s an upbeat feeling for regulars and visitors alike. “We’re definitely a neighborhood bar,” said co-owner Tim Rice. “I think you’ll find that all four of the remaining bars in Palm Beach County see themselves that way. Some people like us; some

Photo: Facebook.

1532 N Dixie Hwy. Lake Worth 561-547-8860

like Roosters; some Fort Dix and some Penny’s. Some people visit all of us; others not at all.” There are nightly specials every week. The current favorite is an $11 beer bust from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays. At 8 p.m. on Wednesdays the bar hosts bingo, a perennial favorite. And a new item that Rice says “brings ‘em in,” is a hot male dancer every Thursday at 11 p.m. “The most popular beverage is vodka or beer, depending on the crowd,” Rice said. “And don’t forget karaoke is Sunday from 4 to 8 p.m. with Frank-e-oke.” – DC

Penny´s at the Duke Photo: Facebook.

bars & clubs palm beach

902 N Dixie Hwy. Lantana 561-318-7359

he Duke opened in 1946 and keeping the name was part of the purchase agreement for Penny Johnson to buy the business. A patron suggested Penny’s at the Duke and it stuck. Then Penny laid down 9,000 pennies in urethane to physically lay claim to the name and opened the place in August 2013. Penny’s is a neighbourhood gay bar with a twist. A bunch of straight customers

came with the territory and have stayed to become part of the regular crowds. “They have fit right in with us,” Johnson said. “They sing karaoke (DJ Crazy J) with everyone else on Wednesdays from 7 to 11 p.m. and they stay for the drag shows.” Penny’s forbids smoking inside. There are two patios where people can take their drinks and smokes and most do without complaint. “The policy has been well accepted,” Johnson said. “No one likes going home reeking of smoke.” The bar has lots of specials, which can be viewed online at their Facebook page. The current favorite beverage is cinnamon whiskey called fireball. And whether you’re female or male, you’re welcome to be one of “The Ladies Who Brunch” on first Sundays at noon. – DC

H.G. Roosters E

Photo: Facebook.

823 Belvedere Rd West Palm Beach 561-832-9119

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stablished in 1984, Roosters is the longest continually operating gay bar in Palm Beach County. Located on Belvedere Road in West Palm Beach, the bar is less than a quarter of a mile east of I-95 so it’s a convenient location for customers from all of Palm Beach County and points north such as Martin and St. Lucie counties. “We’ve come a long way,” said manager David Hazen. “Roosters has completed an extensive remodel and recently instituted a no smoking policy,” he added. “So we updated and expanded the outdoor patio area to accommodate the smokers,” he continued. According to Hazen, Roosters is

community oriented and always involved in charity events. “Roosters always has a neighborhood vibe but we step it up,” he added. “Thursdays through Sundays we bring in a DJ and put on some fantastic shows. We have daily specials that draw great crowds.” On Sundays at 11 p.m., they have karaoke with Jeremy and OffKey Entertainment. A variety of drink specials are available all night. On first Sundays they have a barbecue on the back patio. The bar opens at 3 p.m. and the cookout starts at 5 p.m. Dancers arrive around 6. – DC

bars & clubs palm beach

Royal Poinciana Plaza 340 Royal Poinciana Way

Ste 300 Palm Beach 561-557-2552

with more than 60 men and women gathering for the last two months. “We’ve been really happy at Del Frisco’s,” Fredrickson said. “Why keep moving the location when you’ve found a great thing?” “They offer a wonderful selection of appetizers and drinks at a reasonable price and their red and white house wines are excellent and only $5 per glass,” he continued. A who’s who of the gay community continues to attend. “We also get people from other parts of South Florida and the Treasure Coast,” said Fredrickson. “And the number of women continues to increase. – DC

Sundays at Camelot in West Palm Beach

Photo: Facebook.

or five years, Charlie Fredrickson and a few friends have organized Second Sunday movable mixers at a variety of venues such as the Chesterfield in Palm Beach and the Players Club in Wellington. During the past year their moveable mixers have morphed into a more stable enterprise as they have been welcomed by Del Frisco’s Grille on Royal Poinciana Way in Palm Beach. According to Fredrickson the mixers found Del Frisco’s Grille through Tony Peterson, manager and sommelier at the restaurant and member of the Prime Timers International group that meets monthly at Compass. And, according to Fredrickson, the number of attendees continues to grow

Photo: Facebook.

Movable Mixers Stop Moving

114 S. Narcissus Ave West Palm Beach 561-318-7675

n Sunday evenings in downtown West Palm Beach, Camelot, a yacht-themed private club, opens its doors to the public and invites promoter and host, Jon Elu and his co-host Chris Rhodes to organize a unique drag show under the direction of local diva Daisy Deadpetals. “It’s so much fun,” said Ximena Cordelo, general manager of the club. “The drag queens go outside and talk with the people on the street and in the cars.” “Everyone loves it,” she continued. “Straights as well as gays; the way it should be.” The club opens at 5 p.m. and the shows are at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Good for the people who want to have a little end-of-weekend fun but not be out too late on a work night. According to Elu the club averaged 50 to 60 guests every week. Light appetizers are available and the club features Perfect Vodka drinks for $5. The most popular cocktail last season was the bloody Mary. The promoters struggled for a name for the program. “We used to call it a T dance,” said Elu but it’s not a dance and there is no tea so we settled for the “T” and we’ll see how it sticks.” – DC

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bars & clubs palm beach

6205 Georgia Ave West Palm Beach 561-533-5355

estled among neighbouring industrial buildings on a street that gets pretty dark at night, Fort Dix has plenty of light outside welcoming a regular clientele of mostly middle-aged men. The inside is almost as dark as the outside. With dark walls and dim lighting the bar is nevertheless welcoming to many. “We’re a friendly neighbourhood bar,” said manager Dale Ludwig, answering questions while keeping customers’ glasses full. “We’re also reaching out to the bears and the leather community,” he added. “They need a place to go and we’d like them here.” According to Ludwig, the Palm Beach Leather Men and South

Florida Minotaurs hold regular meetings and classes. Other entertainments include Jared Scott’s Skaraoke Tuesday and occasional visits from porn star Richard Cody, head of Studio XXX. The bar offers daily specials including Hump Day Wednesdays with domestic beer at $2 all day and all night. According to Ludwig the most popular beverages are Jaegerbombs and Firecrackers. Fort Dix was opened in 1988 by Daniel Williams and Mark Koslowski who gave the bar its original name, Koslow’s. When Koslowski left the business in 2006, Williams renamed the bar Fort Dix.

Photo: Facebook.

Fort Dix – DC

Blue Front BBQ Bar & Grill T

Photos: Facebook.

1132 N Dixie Highway Lake Worth 561-833-6651

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he latest gay scene in Palm Beach County is the Blue Front BBQ Bar & Grill with their Wednesday night “Too Sexy Show – Mild-2-Hot,” from 9:30 p.m. to midnight featuring DJ Q and award winning diva, Velvet Lenore with her hand-picked performers. Reservations are welcome for parties up to 50 to enjoy the entertainment. Special arrangements can be made by calling the number above. The kitchen offers a selection of barbecue and tapas until 11 p.m. and the bar is open until 2 a.m. Well drinks are available for $3; domestic drafts are $2. Jell-O shots are two for $5. “The current most popular drink is the Skittle Shot,” said general manager Rodney Briguglio. “They’re made with real Skittles dissolved in Vodka and enhanced with some secret ingredients,” he added. “We’re basically a gay environment but we welcome everyone and the crowds are increasingly mixed,” he said. So is the entertainment. Originally launched in July of this year primarily as a drag venue, the entertainment has evolved to include a variety of offerings including fire dancers, pole dancers, an improv line up and more. “Velvet and I are both excited by what’s happening entertainmentwise,” Briguglio said. “Different performances attract different audiences that that expands our reach.” – DC

• 11.4.2015

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bars & clubs miami dade

Score Miami Beach 305-535-1111 Scorebar.net

- CL

The Floppy Rooster T

Photo: Facebook.

1437 Washington Ave.

PhotoS: Facebook.

core is now in its 17th year of business. For years, the club was nestled in the middle of happening Lincoln Road on Miami Beach. Then three years ago, owners Luis Morera and Billy Kemp moved the club onto Washington Avenue into a larger venue space. The move didn’t deter customers, and they’re still keeping the club packed for EDM, hip hop, live DJ sets, or Latin night, fit with drag queens and muscle boys flooding the dance floor. Plus, it’s not unusual for celebs to be seen here – when Ricky Martin was in town for a show in October, he made a special appearance at Score.

7018 N.W. 72nd Ave. Miami 786-766-0778 FloppyRooster.com

his all-nude gay strip club and lounge is located within minutes of the Miami International Airport. Need to wind down before taking a flight? Come by here for a smashing good time, baby. The venue’s motto “No bull. Just rooster,” is a playful take on what occurs on any given night. The place is open 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Thursday through Sunday, and is known to heat things up when the buff and tone gentlemen shake it and grind it on stage. Now, flex those biceps! Even though the Rooster is a gay man’s club, ladies are also welcome with a male escort. Patrons be warned, with the all nude revue, use of camera phones and recording devices is discouraged. If you have them out, the ownerships been known to take your device and check your photos. 2-4-1 VIP rooms available. - JM

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1200 Ocean Drive Miami Beach 305-531-7234

PalaceSouthBeach.com

“E

very queen needs a palace.” When you want a night on the town in the ever pumping and hopping SoBe, Palace Bar is your best bet. This venue boasts a nightclub, American-style restaurant, and a bar with fine cocktails. Patrons can score breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch here, and dine indoors or al fresco. Now in its 26th year, Palace is the first and only LGBT bar/restaurant on Ocean Drive. And this sultry venue is located just a few steps from 12th

- JM

Azucar Nightclub

Photo: Facebook.

Twist

Street beach where the gay crowd is known to frequent. Like most places on South Beach the Palace can get packed by passing foot traffic so reservations are recommended. Brunch and dinner specials can be found on Groupon and Living Social but the high energy drag shows are what keep people coming back. Drag queens perform nightly dinner shows and entertain on Sundays for a “Brunchic” shindig.

Photo: Facebook.

Palace South Beach

“L

1057 Washington Ave. Miami Beach 305-538-9478 TwistSoBe.com

ince 1993, Twist has been the “it” spot to go hard all night. With seven full bars and multiple rooms on two floors, customers can hit the dance floor, video bar, garden bar, bungalow, and enjoy the go-go dancers. DJs work the decks for different vibes throughout the complex, from hip-hop to Latin to EDM. For drinks, every day, Happy Hour is from 1 to 9 p.m. with two-for-one specials on everything, as well as two-for-one call and domestics from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Thursdays. And the best part of it all? Their tagline says it all: “never a cover, always a groove.” - CL

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Bars & Clubs

2301 S.W. 32nd Ave. Miami 305-443-7657 AzucarMiami.com

Facebook.com/ClubSugarmia

o major de la noche,” has gone through a name change. Azucar used to be called Club Sugar before it took up a more, Little Havana vibe. Mmmm, mmm! This sweet venue is a nice place to hang out and flirt with a fun cutie. It is open later than its contenders, with a 5 a.m. closing time Revelers can dress casual, socialize and kick back without dealing with too much pretention in this friendly club. The drag shows offer over-the-top drama, audiences are sure to be entertained. Open Thursday through Sunday, Thursdays Azucar hosts Drag Wars, with performances from TP Lords and music from DJ sushiman. Friday nights have seen Cherry Pie ladies’ night, Magic Mike night with rotating house shows. Sabados Lokos are hosted by Teresita and “los Globos.” And Sundays are for the more “lowkey” Cabaret. - JM

bars & clubs miami dade

Wet Bar Miami Photo: Facebook.

1728 SW 8th St. Miami 305-244-3069

Facebook.com/WetBarMiami

andwiched between a flower shop and a furniture store in the heart of Little Havana is where you will find Wet Bar Miami. It’s a night geared towards gays instead of a regular watering hole for the LGBT crowd. The night to come is Friday as doors open around 10 p.m. and the party goes on well into the morning on Saturday. Wet Bar attracts a mostly Hispanic

clientele. The neighborhood features reminders of Miami’s close association with Cuba, including Bay of Pigs Museum and Domino Club Park. The bar’s Friday night gay party has been going on for about five years now says Mikhail Cabanos, media spokesman for the club. Club-goers can expect the latest hot dance music, dolled up drag queens and beefy Latino go-go boys whose first language is Spanish. There is valet parking and VIP service available. Compared to Miami Beach, Calle Ocho parking is quite affordable at $1.75 per hour. The dress code is relaxed casual, another departure from the glitz of South Beach and more in keeping with the neighborhood’s humble roots. Admission is $5. – JMD

Bars & Clubs

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bars & clubs food 13 Even

Naked Grape Wine Bar

Alibi-Monkey Bar

Rick Karlin

Drink and Dine A few bars that serve food

hy bother stopping for drinks at one place and dinner at another when you can do both at the same location? These places serve both dinner and drinks making for “one-stop shopping.”

Alibi-Monkey Bar 2266 Wilton Dr. 954-565-2526 AlibiWiltonManors.com Whether you call it Georgie’s Alibi, just Alibi or Alibi Monkey Bar, you know that the drinks are strong and the boys are pretty (or is it the other way around?) What you might not know is that the food has always been pretty damn good, and now it’s even better since it was purchased by veteran restaurateur Johnny Pak, who also owns Monkey Bar in Provincetown.

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• 11.4.2015

Bars & Clubs

Appetizers and small plates include the expected bar fare; nachos, onion rings, wings and potato skins as well as more exotic fare edamame, Thai chicken skewers, cold sesame noodles and crab Rangoon. You’ll also find more salads than you’d expect from a bar/restaurant. The fried chicken salad and lemon and dill infused shrimp are both unexpected delights. In addition to more than a dozen different burger options, you can savor fresh sliced turkey with cranberry mayo, or explore the culinary globe with a Vietnamese báhn mi, a Cubano or chicken gyros. Entrée choices run the gamut from bacon-wrapped meat loaf and pulled pork to Asian influenced dishes such as to shrimp stir fry and crispy sesame chicken. Nightly specials are always favorites, with chicken fajitas on Monday, meatball sandwiches on Wednesdays and the popular fried chicken on Sunday. Brunch is also served on Sunday and there’s a late night menu.

Rumors 2426 Wilton Dr. 954-565-8851 RumorsBarWiltonManors.com Although many knew that the bar served food, with its newly added patio, now it’s out and proud for everyone to see. Dishing up late breakfasts, brunch, lunch, dinner and late night snacks, Hobo’s is a favorite among the homos. The breakfast menu is served Monday through Saturday

from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., and includes all the expected favorites; eggs and omelets, French toast, pancakes. On Sunday the menu expands (as will your belt) with a $16 buffet. The dinner menu includes starters such as gouda cheese fritters, breaded alligator bites, nachos and wings. Burgers (including a very good veggie burger) deli sandwiches and grilled cheese as well as entrée-sized salads round out the menu. Nightly specials include a burger or jumbo hot dog with a choice of side for $6 on Monday, a taco bar on Tuesday, Wednesday’s Italian night allow you to match up a choice of pasta and sauce with a choice of protein. Other theme nights appear periodically, such as BBQ buffets and steak specials

Tropics

bars & clubs food Naked Grape Wine Bar 2163 Wilton Dr. 954-563-5631 NakedGrapeWineBar.com Elevating bar food to new heights, Naked Grape offers small plates to accompany a glass of vino from its extensive cellar of boutique wines. The options range from something as seemingly simple as hummus or artichoke dip, which are so beyond what you’d expect that you’ll never be satisfied with these dishes anywhere else. Likewise the mousse truffée, paté and peppadew glazed goat cheese gratin are variations on dishes you’ve seen elsewhere, but never executed as well. Sausage-stuffed mushrooms, braised Spanish chorizo, cheese-n- mac, meatballs and flatbreads are additional examples of an elegant take on classic party fare. You owe it to yourself to try the shrimp, prepared escargot style or the mozzarella, which is made fresh tableside and available in a Caprese salad or with an assortment of equally tasty charcuterie.

Tropics 2000 Wilton Dr. 954-537-6000 TropicsOfWiltonManors.com Is it a bar with a fine restaurant or a restaurant with a popular bar? Does it matter? Although Tropics is known for its holiday and Sunday buffets, it also offers an extensive menu with table service in the dining room or, if you prefer more casual service, at the bar. Starters include escargots, shrimp cocktail, steamers, French onion soup au gratin and lobster bisque, baked brie in puff pastry and Caprese, Cobb or Caesar salads. Entree options for vegetarians feature a beefsteak tomato stuffed with a wild mushroom orzo, melted herbed havarti cheese and pesto or phyllo pastry enveloping roasted parsnips, carrots, red sweet onions and turnips, served

with a tomato cream sauce. Other main dishes run the gamut from roasted salmon and mahi, to pot roast, bouillabaisse, rib-eye steak, ribs, lobster mac and cheese, burgers and sandwiches. The desserts are worth the calories especially the decadent brownie.

13 Even 2037 Wilton Dr. 954-565-8550 13-even.com Serving up small plates to accompany 40 plus wines by the glass and 40 plus craft beers, 13 Even is a place to relax and socialize while you enjoy anything from a light bite to a hearty sandwich. Start with one of the four flatbread options, bruschetta, a salad, cheese plate or chilled shrimp with lime and avocado. For something more substantial, the mac and cheese and sautéed skirt steak are always popular, but don’t overlook the oysters on the half shell, empanadas or a panini.

Boardwalk Bar 1721 N Andrews 954-463-6969 BoardwalkBar.com You mean Boardwalk offers something besides boys in their underwear? Yes, and the food at the Beefcakes outdoor café is much better than you’d expect. All entrées are in the ballpark of $10 except for "Fort Lauderdale's Most Outrageous and Expensive Cheeseburger," which is $14.95 and comes stuffed with French fries and onion rings. Monday Taco Nights feature beef versions of the titular treat for $1 each. On Tuesday chicken wings are 50¢ each, Wednesday offers a burger half-price deal and Thursday all meals are two for one, both with a drink purchase. Sunday brunch showcases bottomless mimosas and bloodies (and the boys will wash your car for $10).

Beefcakes

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Visions of the 2015-16 High Season

Real Estate Geek

By James Oaksun

It's November, we have “turn[ed] back time” (no I won't sing it), and it is another high season in South Florida. And that means increased real estate activity. What market conditions will apply this winter? It is difficult to make statements about pricing in the overall real estate market that apply universally at the neighborhood level. I have compiled proof of that in my Broward's Real Estate Yearbook (online at issuu.com/ JamesOaksun/docs/2015_yearbook). All real estate is hyper-local! Forget cities – even within some neighborhoods, price trends for homes with different characteristics will vary. In the 35 neighborhoods and segments analyzed in my Yearbook, median price changes in the 12 months ending June 30, 2015, ranged from +48 to -49 percent! There are, however, two macro trends applicable everywhere this season, and an economic truism that will govern the market in certain neighborhoods in South Florida. Practically every expert says interest rates will rise in coming months. Holding other things constant, this will depress housing values. Monthly mortgage payments will increase, and the maximum price a person can spend on a home will go down. However, next year is a presidential election year. And looking back in history (with few exceptions), incumbent

politicians strive to get the economy humming along in election years, particularly in presidential years. That pulls real estate prices up. Here in Broward, there are some (but definitely not all) neighborhoods where housing inventory is very low. Further, because prices generally have flattened, sellers have been less eager to list. But I think an opportunity exists for shrewd sellers in the next 30-60 days: Take advantage of low inventory in select neighborhoods and price points and list as soon as possible. When supply is low, and demand starts to increase (as it does every high season), first on the market will get better results. Then, prices increase, more properties get listed, and prices flatten or turn down in some places. That happened in center Wilton Manors last season – the first half was strong and the second half weaker. It is impossible to say without very specialized knowledge how certain neighborhoods could perform compared with the overall market. Whether you are buying, selling or investing, only an absolute local market expert can do that. Choose carefully. WMG James Oaksun, Broward's Real Estate GeekSM, is a Realtor with the Wilton Manors office of RE/MAX Preferred. In addition to having degrees from Dartmouth and Cornell, he is a graduate of the Realtors Institute (GRI).

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November 4, 2015

Photo: Facebook.

11.4.2015 •

Community

Business

Majority of BID Board Supports Two-Lane Initiative

By Michael d’Oliveira

Wilton Drive’s new Business Improvement District [BID] board hasn’t made any decisions yet on how to allocate funds. But the majority of board members support the Two-Lane Initiative – reducing Wilton Drive from four lanes to two and making it similar to Las Olas Boulevard. In the past, the city commission has rejected calls to take over Wilton Drive from the state and alter it because of the estimated cost to the city. If the number of lanes were reduced, possible changes include angled parking on each side of the road as well and landscaping and pedestrian improvements. Past estimates by FDOT put the cost of resurfacing Wilton Drive at about $500,000 every 10 to 15 years. Maintaining the street would cost about $75,000 to $85,000 per year. But now, with the BID estimated to bring in $100,000 per year over its 10-year lifespan, it’s possible that the city could allocate those funds to make the Two-Lane Initiative a reality. The BID generates money by levying additional taxes on property owners along Wilton Drive. The majority of property owners approved the extra millage and the money can only be spent to benefit Wilton Drive. Commissioners would have final approval over how BID funds are spent. “My dream would be to have it down to two lanes but it would really be up to the board,” said board chair Doug Blevins. It will be a while though until funding is available. Property owners on Wilton Drive won’t be assessed until 2016. “We have a long way to go before the BID has any effect on Wilton Drive,” said Greg Phelps, coowner of Village Pub. “My first goal is public safety – one of the many reasons I support [the Two-Lane Initiative],” he added. “There’s too many pedestrian

incidents resulting from traffic and there are clearly not enough crosswalks.” Robert Katz, board member and owner of Shades of the Past on Wilton Drive, said his biggest reason to support the Two-Lane Initiative is to create more parking. “Parking’s very limited for us. It’s a problem. I also think slowing the traffic down is important,” said Katz. “I’m hoping the board can bring this to fruition and push the commission to do it,” said board member Paul Hugo, owner of The Manor on Wilton Drive. “Right now, Wilton Drive is like a highway. We want to make it like Las Olas,” said Hugo, who envisions more outdoor cafes. “[Wilton Drive] is not friendly. It’s uninviting.” Asked how the city could keep funding Wilton Drive after the BID expires, Hugo said reducing the street to two lanes would attract more people to the city and help businesses which in turn would provide a larger tax base for the city and more revenue. But Blevins and other board members said they will also explore other ideas for Wilton Drive, including marketing campaigns, public/private partnerships and the possible development of a hotel. Blevins sees the BID as similar to Main Street, later renamed the Wilton Manors Development Alliance, an organization founded to support the cultural and commercial development of Wilton Drive. The BID is an opportunity, said Blevins, to form public/private partnerships and raise funds in addition to what’s generated through taxes. “In some ways [it is Main Street] but on a much bigger scale.” Board members Danny Scarfone, owner of Scarfone’s on Wilton Drive, James Govin and Daniel Keester, BID vice chair, declined to comment. WMG

In the past, the city commission has rejected calls to take over Wilton Drive from the state and alter it because of the estimated cost to the city.

Senior Residences Planned For Equality Park By Michael d’Oliveira

The Pride Center at Equality Park already offers services to seniors. Now, executives there want to offer seniors a place to live. Pride Center wants to build a five-story mixed-use residential and retail development on its property along Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. If approved, there would be 12,346 square feet of retail space and 130 affordable housing units. Heidi Siegel, formerly the director of the city’s Community Development Services Department, spoke on behalf of the Pride Center at the Oct. 27 commission meeting. Siegel said she was “very proud” to bring the project to commissioners for support. The Pride Center is applying for affordable housing credits from the Florida Housing Finance Corporation and asked for a

demonstration of support from the city. The commission unanimously backed the project’s concept but the actual development will still have to go through the normal city approvals before it can be built. “Three years ago, Commissioner Tom Green brought this to me. The only questions has always been where [do we put it?],” said Siegel. She called the project a feather in the city’s cap. One that would allow the Pride Center to expand services for seniors. Siegel added that housing would be open to LGBT and non-LGBT seniors. Green said the Pride Center is the most logical location for senior housing because seniors won’t have to worry about transportation to take advantage of the services offered.

Government

Wilton Manors Hires New Assistant City Manager By Michael d’Oliveira Pamela Landi has been hired as Wilton Manors’ new assistant city manager. Landi was chosen to replace Leigh Ann Henderson who replaced Joe Gallegos as city manager when he retired on Oct. 1. Landi, who has a bachelors in political science from Florida Atlantic University, previously worked for FAU as assistant vice president for university relations and for Broward County in the intergovernmental relations office. She also worked for late Congressman E. Clay Shaw as a liaison with cities on issues such as energy, beach and Everglades restoration. “I just hope to be contributing for many years,” said Landi. WMG

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column letters to the editor

Photo:Facebook

Photo: CNN

Letters to the Editor a thank You froM Beach Bear weekenD S

aying Thank You to the guys that made BeachBear Weekend an incredible success doesn’t seem to be enough. Jim Cooper, truly a promotional genius gave us a worldwide presence that was beyond imagination. We used our passion and technology to bring people together in Fort Lauderdale. We couldn't have produced BeachBear Weekend without the partnerships of the bars involved, from Scandals and especially Hunters to Ramrod and 321 Slammer among many others. While we received no county funding, we did receive an incredible valuable partner in the country and the men of Spain. Christian Frischele and the guys of Madrid kicked in funds to replace money needed to produce the event. The gay community has an incredible amount of talent. BeachBear was our dream to have Bears visit Fort Lauderdale and create a "cruise that didn't leave port" Fort Lauderdale shined as we sold out the rooms at the Marriott and the gay guesthouses and other hotels. Bars and businesses set records. No one before had all the bars and business backing one event to benefit our

• 11.4.2015

city. However, no other event has ever had the County of Broward not back them. Criticism of county agencies is a good and constructive way of learning to improve our destination. The county and city should not stay in the Spring Break mindset of 50 years ago. It should also be transparent and open in its formulas for funding and its officials should be accessible. Unfortunately doors were closed to us. While we'd like to do BeachBear 2016 county officials and their promotional budgets remain opposed. Charities are facing challenging times with cuts in funding as health services grants are being re-directed. BeachBear Weekend tried to help fill in some gaps by giving proceeds to the Pride Center, Latino Salud and Abandoned Pet Rescue. In the past we gave to Sunserve. We appreciate all of the help these charities gave to produce the event. 2015 was the toughest year yet to produce the event and by far the best. We became the largest gay event on Fort Lauderdale Beach. I questioned and challenged the status quo and I questioned myself for doing this event. But we sold well over 1000 rooms and contributed over 2 million dollars into the

local Fort Lauderdale economy in room sales, restaurant and bar revenues and worldwide tourist dollars. These were not just locals -our pictures easily prove that. Our guys came from all over, UK, Europe, Spain, Northeast, Midwest, Atlanta, Texas, California. It was hard work and at times we were attacked for it. We were not interested in staying in Wilton Manors and doing a parking lot party. We wanted gay men from all over the world to experience our world class beach. And they did. Thinking BeachBear Weekend is over makes me incredibly sad. But then I get into my jeep with my dog Tanner and drive to that beach and jump in those turquoise warm waters and if that doesn't make you smile I don't know what will. I love Fort Lauderdale. It was an incredible experience to show so many people what a very special place that we are allowed to live in.

thank You fort LauDerDaLe. BoB Young wiLton ManorS, fL

Don't confuSe aMerica'S contract with goD

ear eDitor, This concern by Christian fundamentalists about America going against their beliefs and of course God’s, such as gay marriage, art, etc., with quotes from the Old Testament aren’t really understanding. The reality is that America is not bound to a 4,000 year old Jewish covenant given to Abraham saved in the Old Testament. America’s contract with God was made on July 4, 1776 and was made by Freemasons and the people who fought the American Revolution. Our contract reads a lot different than Abraham’s covenant. I like ours better. How about you?

gene eLDer San antonio texaS

column letters to the editor

new gop eMBraceS gaYS marriage. Tennessee Governor and Chair of the Republican Governors Association, Bill Haslam, now supports marriage for us, and so does Governor John Kasich of Ohio. Senator Rand Paul has advocated for estate rights for gay couples. Tammy Bruce, an avowed lesbian and top ranked conservative talk show host for Los Angeles KABC-AM, is also the Deputy Editor of the conservative Washington Times, as well as a regular panel host for women of the televised Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). No GOP Congress has ever cut AIDS funding. Florida Governor Rick Scott selected an openly gay man as his Chief Economic Development Adviser. Mr. Scott also appointed the President of the Log Cabin Republicans of Miami to the Florida Commission on the Status of Women. And Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner joined New Jersey Governor Chris Christie in banning conversion therapy. When the Light is shining in, the gay press should not keep their readers in the Dark.

Photo: Facebook.

s a dedicated reader of GLBT online newspapers, including yours, I’m amazed by how endlessly hateful and intolerant the reporting is on the Republican Party. There is a new day for Gay people in the GOP. Consider this: The Republican National Committee has removed all anti-Gay planks from their 2016 national platform. The lead attorney, who won the California and SCOUTS cases that declared bans on same-sex marriages unconstitutional, was George W Bush’s former evangelical rightwing Solicitor General, Ted Olsen. Yet, Mr. Olsen’s name is never mentioned in the Gay press. GOP Senators from Illinois, West Virginia, Ohio and New Hampshire, as well as the Koch Brothers, signed amicus briefs to the SCOTUS in support of Gay Marriage. So did over 300 other influential conservative Republicans, former Cabinet members, and senior staffers to GOP Senators and U.S. Representatives, as well as those serving powerful Republican state legislators, according to TIME Magazine. GOP Governors Rick Snyder (MI) and Chris Christie (NJ) dropped their opposition to Gay marriage. Former Utah Governor Jon Huntsman supported legal same-sex

Bobby DuBose.

verY reSpectfuLLY, Mauricio reZenDe

the DoLphin DeMocratS anD BoBBY DuBoSe A

s President of the Dolphin Democrats, I agree with Jason King's characterization of Rep. Bobby DuBose. In fact, I believe Jason left out a few of Rep. DuBose's accomplishments. Not only is he a champion of Democratic and LGBT causes, Rep. DuBose is an electric speaker and magnetic presence whose oratory is inspiring and elevating. For these reasons, we at the Dolphins were so appreciative when we received confirmation that, after canceling one scheduled visit, we were told that Rep. DuBose would join us last month. We had a room full of his constituents and interested others who spent weeks looking forward to hearing him speak to them, and the Board was very grateful that Rep. DuBose, who clearly has a very full speaking schedule, had made the time to join us for our monthly meeting. When it became obvious that Rep. DuBose was not going to arrive, we had a room full of disappointed folks who pointedly asked, what happened? Perhaps the Rep.'s staff reached out to Jason King and told him it was a communication glitch, as he reported in his letter to the editor. Unfortunately,

the Board of the Dolphins did not receive such a notification. We do understand, however, that such things happen; staff are overwhelmed with requests and sometimes mistakes occur. The Dolphin Democrats continue to appreciate the many good and positive works that Rep. DuBose achieves on behalf of the LGBT community, and look forward to the time when we will be able to host him and personally thank him. As with all the Democrats who are elected or running in Broward county, we appreciate Rep. DuBose's support that enables us to continue our work to provide information on upcoming local and countywide elections and gets out the vote. We will be celebrating the good work of all our members and supporters at our Holiday Party on Wednesday, December 9th, from 6-8pm at the Richardson House in Wilton Manors. Everyone is warmly invited!

SincereLY, raBBi noah kittY preSiDent, DoLphin DeMocratS 11.4.2015 •

I’m gay.

lifestyle books

I am the future of the LGBT community. And I read about that future every day on my Android tablet. Because that’s where I want it to be.

'too faSt to Live, too Young to Die: JaMeS Dean’S finaL hourS' by Keith Elliot Greenberg

Terri Schlichenmeyer

he minute you glimpsed the red-and-blues, you knew you were sunk.

The person depicted here is a model. Their image is being used for illustrative purposes only.

An Undersea Tribute to Life

Yep, and now you have a traffic citation to pay for stepping on it, having a lead foot, a pedal to the metal. You knew better than to exceed the speed limit, but you couldn’t resist and, as you’ll see in the new book “Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die” by Keith Elliot Greenberg that need for speed may drive you to the grave. Markie Winslow, Jr. adored his cousin, Jimmy. A few years older, Jimmy played with Markie and took him on motorcycle rides, but they never went too fast. With Markie, Jimmy wasn’t reckless, though he pushed the limits of it on his own. People in their hometown of Fairmount, Indiana, didn’t care – they loved James Dean because he was a local boy who’d done well. No one was surprised that Dean ended up in Hollywood or that he became a star: he’d always loved to act. He’d entered and won contests, performed in church plays, and had eschewed prelaw classes in favor of a coveted spot in a UCLA production of Macbeth. It was obvious where his career path was taking him. And it took him there quickly. In just a short time, Dean was a heartthrob movie star, had performed on the new medium of television, and had gained a fiancé and enough money to indulge in the hobby of auto racing. When a guy signed movie deals for six figures, $7,000 wasn’t much for a car and he had his eye on a Porsche 550 Spyder, one of just a few made. He’d almost gotten arrested just looking at the car one night. What else could he do but buy it?

$24.99 / higher in Canada 304 pages c.2015, Applause Theatre & Cinema Books Overjoyed with his prize, he’d started to break the car in but some doubted that it was a good purchase. Others told Dean to be careful in that car, that it was dangerous, that it could kill him, that it would kill him. And on September 30, 1955, it did…. Though its subtitle indicates a small focus of subject matter, “Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die” is more comprehensive and expansive than merely a few hours. That has its plusses and its minuses. A little background is always a good thing, especially when you’re reading about a star who made only three movies and died six decades ago. Author Keith Elliot Greenberg finesses that backstory – including Dean’s childhood, his rumored bisexuality, his odd on-set genius, and his rapscallion attitude - but Greenberg unfortunately combines it with fan-gushing from folks who traveled to Fairmount to partake in a James Dean festival. That’s charming at first but it becomes florid, and quite overdone. Still, if you’re a fan and can ignore that, you’ll appreciate this book and its marking of a sad anniversary. If you own the iconic poster or t-shirt and want to know more, you’ll find that here, too. In either case, “Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die” may be just the ticket.

No one was surprised that Dean ended up in Hollywood or that he became a star: he’d always loved to act.

The Neptune Reef is a unique and affordable destination to establish a lasting legacy, while creating life after life. Now being offered by Ask about Package Pricing specials that include cremation. Call 954-731-4321 for more info. www.browardburial.com

• 11.4.2015

LGBT CRUISES & TOUR EVENTS

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more in 2016: Alaska, Caribbean, Cuba, France, India, Mediterranean

CALL TODAY: (800) 592-9058 www.AquafestCruises.com 11.4.2015 â&#x20AC;¢

lifestyle history

Photo: Facebook.

Ellen Page, the Canadian actress, came out in 2014.

hoMo hiStorY 101 History was never as straight as we are told. Recording our history means reporting the truth. Pier Angelo

nathan Berkus (1971) is an American interior designer, author, TV host and television personality. He runs the Chicago interior design firm Nate Berkus Associates and has been a regularly featured guest on The Oprah Winfrey Show, offering design advice to viewers, as well as coordinating surprise makeovers for people's homes. He has released numerous lines of products, and authored several books. December 2004 Berkus and his partner, photographer Fernando Bengoechea, were vacationing at a beach resort in Sri Lanka when the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami hit. While Berkus survived, Bengoechea is missing and presumed dead. Berkus appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show on January 17, 2005, to talk about this ordeal and the loss of his partner. After nearly a year of dating, Berkus became engaged to Jeremiah Brent in April 2013. They were married on May 3, 2014 in New York City. In early 2014, the couple was featured in clothier Banana Republic’s "True Outfitters" ads in InStyle and Rolling Stone, among other magazines.The New York Times noted they were the first same-sex couple to be featured in ads for the magazines. Berkus announced on March 25, 2015, that the couple's daughter via surrogate, Poppy BrentBerkus, was born March 23. Mathilde "tig" notaro (1971) is a Grammy Award nominated American standup comedian, writer, and radio contributor. On her approach to comedy (and if she considers herself a dark comic): "I'm always going to do whatever I think is funniest. If something's dark, I'll do it. If it's a sock puppet, if it's a stool, I'll do it. There's no preconceived idea of who I think I might be now. Notaro said that since her cancer diagnosis, she has shifted not to darker comedy, but rather to personal comedy. Previously she was more 60

• 11.4.2015

distant and observational, but now she reflects on her childhood and her life. Notaro was diagnosed with cancer in both breasts on July 30 2012. On August 3, she addressed her recent cancer treatments and other personal difficulties during her live stage show at Largo in Los Angeles. The set has been described as "instantly legendary," with many comedians praising her work. Notaro sometimes discusses her romantic relationships in her act, but tries to maintain a level of privacy. Notaro met her fiancée, Stephanie Allynne, on the set of the movie, In a World.

alec Mapa (1965) is a Filipino American actor, comedian and writer. He got his first professional break when he was cast to replace B.D. Wong for the role of Song Liling in the Broadway production of M. Butterfly. He later gained notoriety for the roles of Adam Benet inHalf & Half and Suzuki St. Pierre in Ugly Betty which are his best known roles. He is also known for his recurring role as Vern in Desperate Housewives. Mapa is openly gay and lends his support to various projects supporting the gay, lesbian, and Asian American communities. In 2008, Mapa legally married Jamison Hebert, after dating since 2002. On the TV series The Gossip Queens, Mapa stated in the opening episode that he and his husband adopted a 5-year-old African American boy. ellen page (1987), Canadian actress courageously came out in 2014. The Juno actress said, "I suffered for years because I was scared to be out. My spirit suffered. My mental health suffered. And my relationships suffered. And I am standing here with all of you today on the other side of that pain." Page was included as part of the Advocate’s annual "40 Under 40" list.

11.4.2015 â&#x20AC;¢

lifestyle photos

J.R. Davis

â&#x20AC;˘ 11.4.2015

wickeD ManorS Wilton Manors Celebrates Halloween

See more photos on SFGN's Facebook page.

lifestyle photos

11.4.2015 â&#x20AC;˘

F O R

T H E

SFGNITES

W E E K

O F

N o v e m b er

no v e m b er

1 0 ,

2 0 1 5

W W W . S F G N . C O M

J.W. Arnold

jw@prdconline.com

THU

11/5

film The Miami Short Film Festival, running through Nov. 7, features a showcase of LGBT-themed short films, “All the Good Ones Are Gay,” tonight at 7 p.m. at Miami Beach Cinematheque, 1130 Washington Ave. Eight shorts, ranging from 4 min. – 20 min. from Canada, Germany, United Kingdom and the United States, touch on topics of love, sex and gender identity. Among the titles: “Pussy Chronicles” and “In Bed with Fred and Ruben.” Festival schedule and tickets at MiamiShortFilmFestival.com.

FRI

11/6

food We don’t care what the World Health Organization has to say! Tonight at 7 p.m., there’s only one place to be: Esplanade Park in downtown Fort Lauderdale for the Riverwalk Bacon Bash. Local restaurants will dish up bacon-inspired dishes and there will be plenty to drink at the VIP biergarten. You’ll be “as happy as a pig in poo” by the time you leave. Prepaid general admission is $35 and the biergarten is $75. Proceeds benefit Covenant House Florida. Tickets at GoRiverwalk.com.

Miami City Ballet opens its season at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale this weekend with George Balanchine’s classic, “Swan Lake.” Credit: Gene Schiavone.

SAT

11/7 SUN

11/8 MON

11/9 TUE

11/10

dance

theater

cause

music

Miami City Ballet opens its 30th anniversary season tonight at 8 p.m. and tomorrow at 2 p.m. at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale. The program includes legendary choreographer George Balanchine’s masterpiece, “Swan Lake,” set to the music of Tchaikovsky, as well as Jerome Robbins’ “Fancy Free,” about three sailors on liberty in Manhattan. “Viscera,” the ballet’s commission from young gay British phenom Liam Scarlett, rounds out the program. Tickets available at MiamiCityBallet.org.

Zoetic Stage opens its 2015 – 16 season this weekend at the Arsht Center in Miami with the world premiere of “Stripped,” by award-winning playwright Christopher Demos-Brown. A moving, irreverent, portrait of one woman’s quest for true freedom, the play chronicles the struggles of Masha, an immigrant, an exotic dancer and a mother. When the state takes custody of her daughter, she must persevere to reunite her family against the odds. Tickets start at $50 at ArshtCenter.org.

Now that we have marriage equality, what’s next? Our Fund, the local LGBT charitable community foundation, hosts the 5th annual National LGBT Leadership Forum tonight at 5 p.m. at NSU Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale’s Horvitz Auditorium, 1 E. Las Olas Blvd. The in depth discussion will feature nation leaders to bring insights on the next steps towards LGBT equality. A reception will follow. Admission is free but advance registration is required at OurFund.org.

The Symphony of the Americas continues its season at the Broward Center’s Amaturo Theater tonight at 8:15 p.m. with the West Point Glee Club. These talented future soldiers from the U.S. Military Academy will demonstrate musical prowess and precision under the direction of Connie Chase and symphony artistic director James Brooks-Bruzzese. Don’t miss this patriotic evening of rousing symphonic and choral masterpieces. Tickets start at $50 at SymphonyOfTheAmericas.org.

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a&e theater

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Actor Lee Roy Reams brings a gender-bending twist to “Hello, Dolly!” at The Wick in Boca Raton.

Hello, Lee Roy!

A Broadway Legend’s Love Affair with Dolly Levi J.W. Arnold

ee Roy Reams adores Dolly Gallagher Levi. Of course, she’s only a character in a beloved Broadway musical, but their intimate relationship spans nearly four decades. This weekend, he will finally take on that iconic role in the first sanctioned performance of its kind at The Wick in Boca Raton. Reams, a classic song and dance man, portrayed Cornelius Hackl in the 1978 revival starring Carol Channing. He became friends with composer Jerry Herman, writer Michael Stewart and producer David Merrick, but that was just the beginning of the love affair with Dolly. “It’s a wonderful role and I love the score. It’s practically the perfect musical,” he explained from his Manhattan apartment. “When you think about Dolly, she takes on the role of her dead husband and his philosophy. It’s a story about a woman rejoining the human race and seeking adventure.” By the second Broadway revival in 1994, Channing tasked Reams with directing— and reprising his role as Cornelius when the production hit the road. Since then, he has directed Channing, Madeline Kahn, Michelle Lee, Leslie Uggams, Jo Ann Worley, Randy Graff and even an allAsian production. During one of the Channing tours, Reams first toyed with the idea of casting himself as the understudy for Dolly, “but Carol is notorious for never missing a performance.” As it happened, she did catch a bug one night and that would not be his opportunity. Performing in drag would not be a novelty for the actor, who has donned wigs and heels for gender-bending roles in “La Cage aux Folles,” “Victor/Victoria” and “The Producers.” It’s not a new idea, Reams points out, since female roles were always played by men in Shakespeare’s day. And Herman approved of his aspirations, only asking Reams to wait until the time was right.

After his run as the transvestite performer Alban in “La Cage” at The Wick, executive producer Marilynn Wick insisted Reams. Here was that “perfect” opportunity. Wick, the owner of Costume World, the largest supplier of theatrical costumes in the country, immediately assigned a designer to create a wardrobe for Reams, based on the original Broadway production that has been on display in the costume museum located behind the Boca theater’s stage. “Marilynn is very brave. She raised two daughters and built a business in a man’s world. She’s a pioneer,” praised Reams, who likened her to Dolly Levi. “She’s not afraid to take a gamble.” So, is there any particular actress Reams might channel for his own performance? “I don’t do Carol Channing,” he responded resolutely. “I wouldn’t want to ‘do’ Carol Channing. I want to bring the character to the fore and that’s what I will do.” As an experienced director, he always put his emphasis on the development of the character, especially when working with such a diverse bevy of stars. But, if pushed, he supposed his Dolly would be most like Rosalyn Russell, an actress who never played the role but it most famous for “Mame.” Reams continues to come back to his longtime association with Dolly and her back story: “That’s why I think a man can do it. It’s not that I like to dress up in women’s clothes.” “The point of being an actor is to play roles you can’t play in real life. In today’s world, sexuality—transgender, bi-, tri-, quad-, whatever—it’s time people have become more comfortable with it all,” he elaborated. As for the Wick production, Reams knows it will be historic, but “we’re not reinventing the wheel, we’re just doing ‘Hello, Dolly!’” and to borrow a popular advertising slogan, he’s “loving it.”

Lee Roy Reams directs and stars in “Hello, Dolly!” at The Wick, 7901 N. Federal Hwy. in Boca Raton, Nov. 5 – Dec. 6. Tickets start at $65 at TheWick.org.

• 11.4.2015

Submitted photos.

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30 Years of Pride

Poverello Posts

he South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble will be kicking off their 30th Anniversary season with “30 Years of Pride.” This concert will include some of the band’s favorite pieces from the past 30 years. Selections will include the hauntingly beautiful theme from Schindler’s List played by violin soloist Dina Kostic and Summertime from Porgy and Bess sung by Lisanne Lyons, jazz vocalist. In addition to the wind ensemble, the Pride Steel Drum Band under the direction of Ron Hughes will be performing as well as the Pride Jazz Ensemble. “The concert will include a nice mix of classic band literature and popular music,” according to Dan Bassett, artistic director of the ensemble.

South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble

Location: Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Amaturo Theatre Date: November 13, 2015 Time: 8:00pm Tickets: $30 available at www.browardcenter.org or 954-462-0222 Contact for Press: Dan Bassett, 954-242-4202 or dantrpt@aol.com

A little history of the band: The South Florida Pride Wind Ensemble was not always known as such. They were originally founded as the “Flamingo Freedom Band” 30 years ago in the home of one of the founding members, Bruce Freeman. At the first rehearsal, just six members were in attendance. Since that time the ensemble has grown to over 50 members. As a member of an international Lesbian Gay Band Association (LGBA), members of the ensemble have participated in two presidential inauguration parades. The band has hosted national LGBA conferences a record five times. The Pride Marching Band, made up of members of the wind ensemble, has performed at pride events throughout the state from Key West to Orlando. In the 30 years of the band, two artistic directors have been the most influential in shaping the band. Ron Hughes held the position for 12 years and Dan Bassett, for the last 10 years. Five years ago the band formed the Youth Pride Band, an honor band for high school musicians from Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, and Broward Counties. These students rehearse for approximately one month before performing

along side members of the wind ensemble. Nationally renowned guest conductors and composer rehearse and conduct the band on the weekend of the concert. In addition to an amazing musical experience where acceptance and understanding of all lifestyles is key, participating students are eligible for several $1000 college scholarships. In the first four years, the Pride Wind Ensemble has given away $39,000 in scholarships to deserving students, all of which was raised through donations and grants.

In the 30 years of the band, two artistic directors have been the most influential in shaping the band.

Upcoming concerts include the Youth Pride Band concert on February 21st, 2016 and “Leaving on a Jet Plane: Music From Around the World,” on June 3rd 2016. For more information about the wind ensemble or to make a donation, visit www.pridewindensemle.org. This content sponsored by South Florida Wind Ensemble. 11.4.2015 •

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The private booth allowed visitors to share their coming out story.

coMe out, coMe out, wherever You are Share your stories in “Coming Out Through the Decades” Michael d’Oliveira

hen an individual comes out, the revelation usually stays relatively private – family, friends, coworkers. Until Nov. 15, “Coming Out Through the Decades,” at the Stonewall Gallery in Wilton Manors offers individuals the chance to publically proclaim the story of their sexuality through video recordings and short written messages. And the stories given so far, written on the walls of the gallery and organized into decades for the era the person came out, are as varied as the individuals who tell them – “calming,” “liberating,” “no big deal,” “scary,”

“exhilarating” and “Ha! They knew before I did!” For Darren Preucil, a Stonewall volunteer, coming out “was an evolution” that “shocked” his ex-wife. It was an evolution that came to fruition in 1990, when he was 29. “I always thought it would go away.” But when he realized it wouldn’t, he had to act. “’I said, ‘I got to do something or I’m going to be trapped.’” And when he finally did, he realized it wasn’t the end. “The world didn’t stop. Everything’s OK.” As for the reaction of friends and family, “They were fantastic. My mom, she just gave me a big hug.”

Stonewall Gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and located at 2157 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors. For more information, visit Stonewall-Museum.org.

• 11.4.2015

a&e film Credit: No Clout Pictures.

Jezabel Montero, center, portrays an actress confronting her bisexuality in a film being screened at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival this weekend.

Bisexuality is a Laughing Matter in Festival Film J.W. Arnold “When it comes to politics or cultural identity or sexual identity, I needed people to understand that there are different shades of grey,” explained actress, writer and executive producer Jezabel Montero. Montero uses her new film, “Cassanova was a Woman,” to explore those many shades of grey that blur the realm of bisexuality. The comedy is being screened this weekend at the International Film Festival. The film tells the story of Cassanova Canto, a struggling actress who fits none of the usual social stereotypes. She is a blueeyed, blonde-haired CubanAmerican who falls in love with a woman while still married to her husband. Her sexual awakening is complicated by her famous Spanish soap opera star mother, a homophobic sister and a naked fantasy man who speaks to her at the most inopportune times. The truth is often stranger than fiction. Montero’s mother does happen to be a famous Latina soap star and many of the other wacky situations Cassanova finds herself in are also drawn from Montero’s life. Montero, who spent her early years in Brooklyn and Queens, went to high school in Miami and studied acting in Los Angeles, got her start in improv and the theater. “(My mother’s) a pretty big star,” Montero recalled. “She was an actress and always had lots of jobs. I knew Shakespeare at 5 years old. It was a fun childhood….”

Unlike Cassanova, Montero had a pretty easy time embracing her bisexuality. “In my real life, by the time I fell in love with a woman, I knew and everything was good. There wasn’t a struggle,” she said, “but, to make a movie interesting, things can’t go smoothly.” And she did have lots of crazy stories to tell about her coming out process, with many winding up in the final screenplay. Montero had dabbled in writing, but didn’t consider herself a writer until she compiled those experiences into a stage play in 2008. Staged readings convinced her that she had something. “The universe was telling me,” she said, and seven years later, postproduction on “Cassanova was a Woman” was wrapped. The energetic Montero, who again lives in New York City, rallied friends and family to support the project. Her mother, Zully, is an executive producer and appropriately plays Cassanova’s mother. (“She was the star we had in the movie,” Montero said.) Filming was completed on 17 locations in 14 days, all on a $250,000 budget. (“It was a low budget film,” she obviously pointed out.) Even though the project is in the can as filmmakers say, Montero’s work is not done as she travels to festivals to promote the film and, more importantly, encouraging a dialogue about the quest of bisexuals to be better understood and accepted.

Unlike Cassanova, Montero had a pretty easy time embracing her bisexuality.

“Cassanova was a Woman” will be screened on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. at Cinema Paradiso-Hollywood and Sunday, Nov. 8 at 3:30 p.m. at Cinema Paradiso-Fort Lauderdale. Jezabel Montero will discuss the film following. For more information and tickets, go to FLIFF.com

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Theater Christiana Lilly

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picks

The Movie Music of Spike Lee and Terence Blanchard

Nov. 6 at 8 p.m. at the Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Dee Dee Bridgewater, Maysa, Lizz Wright, and the Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra perform songs from the two directors’ films. Tickets $25 to $130. Call 305-9496722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

Shining Lives

Nov. 7 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 8 at 2 p.m. at FAU’s Parliament Hall Residence Hall, 777 Glades Road in Boca Raton. Four women in 1922 are working at the Radium Dial Company in Chicago are living the life -- until it’s uncovered how literally toxic their work is. Tickets $20. Call 561-2972471 or visit FAUEvents.com

Angry Fags

Nov. 12 to Dec. 13 at Island City Stage/ Abyss Theater, 2304 N. Dixie Highway in Fort Lauderdale. A modern day fight for equality goes terribly wrong when the characters react to a tragic situation in a way that’s less than ideal. Tickets $35. Call 954-519-2533 or visit IslandCityStage.org.

* Denotes New Listing

broward county * Miami City Ballet - Program One

Nov. 7 to 8 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The Miami City Ballet performs parts two and four of “Swan Lake,” as well as “Viscera” and “Fancy Free.” Tickets $20 to $189. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

Matt and Kim with Deaf Poets

Nov. 7 at 7 p.m.at Revolution Live, 100 SW Third Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The couple is touring in support of their new full-length album, “New Glow.” Tickets $25 in advance, $27 day of the show. Call 954-449-1025 or visit JointheRevolution.net.

* The Magic of Bill Blagg Live!

Nov. 7 at 8 p.m. at Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. A top-of-theline magic show, Blagg includes audience participation, grand-scale acts, and even levitation! Tickets $25.50 to $35.50. Call 954462-0222 or visit ParkerPlayhouse.org.

• 11.4.2015

nov. 4 to nov. 10 Big Fish

Through Nov. 8 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Will’s father is a traveling salesman with crazy stories, and he’s determined to find the truth behind them. Tickets $45. Call 954462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

* Symphony of the Americas: West Point Glee Club

Nov. 10 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The symphony is joined by West Point’s glee club. Tickets $50 to $75. Call 954462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

* Gold Coast Jazz: Tierney Sutton and Shelly Berg Trio

Nov. 11 at 7:45 p.m. at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. A night of Gershwin jazz. Tickets $50. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.

palm beach county * LIGHT/ The Holocaust Humanity Project

Nov. 7 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Ballet Austin tells the story of a Holocaust survivor through dance and the devastating effects of an unlearned society. Tickets $15 and up. Call 561-832-7469 or visit Kravis.org.

* Avalon: Suite for Flamenco Guitar and Orchestra

Nov. 6 at 8 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188th St. in Aventura. Jose Luis Rodriguez tells the story of a man in search of Avalon, using the storytelling style of flamenco. Tickets $35 to $40. Call 305-4668002 or visit AventuraCenter.org.

* Kingdom City

Nov. 6 to 15 at FIU’s Performing Arts Center, 10910 SW 17th St. in Miami. An on-stage high school kiss throws the school into an uproar. Tickets $15. Call 305-348-0496 or visit WPAC. FIU.edu.

* La Traviata

Nov. 6 and 7 at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211 St. in Cutler Bay. Violetta Valéry finally finds the love of her life, but it may be too late. Sung in Italian with English subtitles. Tickets $24 to $47. Call 786573-5300 or visit SMDCAC.org.

* iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina

Nov. 7 at 8:30 p.m. at the AmericanAirlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull headline this jam-packed show of superstars, including Wisin, Prince Royce, Don Omar, and more. Tickets $29 to $159. Call 786-777-1000 or visit AAArena.com.

* Talkback with Playwright Sheri Wilner

Nov. 8 following the 2 p.m. performance of

“Kingdom City” at FIU’s Performing Arts Center, 10910 SW 17th St. in Miami. Wilner talks about her play tackling love and the First Amendment. Tickets $15. Call 305-348-0496 or visit WPAC.FIU.edu.

Toxic Avenger

Through Nov. 8 at the the Miracle Theater, 280 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. The story a man fighting the evils of his city, all while falling in love. Tickets $15 to $53. Call 305-444-9293 or visit ActorsPlayhouse.org.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

Through Nov. 20 at the Miami Theater Center, 9806 NE Second Ave. in Miami Shores. In honor of the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s beloved book, the company performs the fairytale. Tickets $35. 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 305-375-3000 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.

Picnic

Through Nov. 8 at Palm Beach Dramaworks, 201 Clematis St. in West Palm Beach. A drifter stumbles into a sleepy town into the arms of a group of lonely women. Tickets $64. Call 561514-4042 or visit PalmBeachDramaworks.org.

Sex with Strangers

Through Nov. 15 at Arts Garage, 180 NE First St. in Delray Beach. Olivia falls for a younger sex blogger and navigates dating in the digital age. Tickets $30 to $45. Call 561-450-6357 or visit ArtsGarage.com.

Free Friday Concerts

Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Enjoy live music from the comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn chair every week, for free! Call 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts. org.

miami-dade county Stripped

Nov. 5 to 22 at the Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Masha is an exotic dancer, and when her daughter is taken away from her, she must fight to get her back. Tickets $50. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.

Photo: Facebook.

Datebook

Matt and Kim with Deaf Poets will be touring in support of their new album on Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. at Revolution Live, 100 SW Third Ave. in Fort Lauderdale.

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community

Gender Bender Youth Group

Christiana Lilly

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

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Top Picks

PFLAG

Trans Opening Art Reception

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.

Nov. 5 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Kicking off Trangender Awareness Month, enjoy the works of transgender artist, Landon Woolston. Free. Call 954-463-9005, ext. 205 or visit PrideCenterFlorida.org

GayWrites Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. at the Stonewall Library, 1300 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. Come join us and write your memoir, poem, blog, novel or short story. Free. Email garri1@earthlink.net

Women’s Health Conference

Nov. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Free. It’s all about the ladies, with seminars on relationships, sex, nutrition, meditation, hormone replacement, self defense, and more. Free.

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.

The Flying Trapeze School Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 7 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 4 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Bayfront Park, 1075 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Soar through the air like a member of the circus with trained trapeze experts. Call 786-239-8775 or visit TheFlyingTrapeze.net

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

nov. 4 to nov. 10 L.I.F.E. Project

Tuesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Get the tools you need to treat your HIV positive diagnosis and live a full, productive life. Free. Call 954-463-9005 or visit PrideCenterFlorida.org.

Tuesday Night Eatin’ Meeting

Tuesdays 8 to 9 p.m. at the Alternative MC Clubhouse, 4322 NE Fifth Ave. in Oakland Park. Fun and fellowship with plenty of food to go around. Visit AlternativeMC.com/events/ florida-events.

palm beach county * ADL ArtWorks

Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. at the Lake Pavilion and Terrace, 101 S. Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach. The Anti-Defamation League presents its artist of the year, Jonatas Chimen Dias DaSilva-Benayon, whose art showcases living a crypto-Judaic life. Tickets $180 and up. Visit ADL.org/artworks15.

Overeaters Anonymous

Wednesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. A safe place to discuss their eating habits and goals. Free. Call 561-533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com

Coming Out Support Group

Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. a Compass GLCC of the Palm Beaches, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Get support as you explore your sexual identity and be your true self. Call Forrest at 561-479-8313.

Queer Alternatives

broward county SAGE Story

Nov. 5 and 12 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Pride Center, 2040 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. SAGE and the Pride Center invites LGBT seniors to record their stories of discrimination and pride. Free. Call 954-4639905 or visit PrideCenterFlorida.org.

* Everglades Day

Nov. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Everglades Holiday Park, 21940 Griffin Road in Fort Lauderdale. Celebrate the River of Grass with a program on invasive Burmese pythons, spoken word inspired by Marjory Stoneman Douglas, bike levee tours, games, airboat rides, and live music by Uproot Hootenanny. Free. Call 954-357-5146 or visit EvergladesHolidayPark.com

* Jamaican Jerk Festival

Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Markham Park, 16001 W. State Road 84 in Sunrise. It’s all about the Jamaican speciality, along with

• 11.4.2015

music, crafts, and cultural activities. Tickets $30. Call 954-357-8868 or the event sponsor at 786-361-1103.

* Giada De Laurentiis

Nov. 10 at 7:30 p.m. at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs. The celebrity chef stops in South Florida on her Happy Cooking tour. Tickets $30.74 to $157.94. Call 954-344-5990 or visit CoralSpringsCenterfortheArts.com.

Come on GET HAPPY!

Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at SunServe North, 2312 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. It’s hard to keep a smile on your face sometimes, this group works on emotional balance and stability. Call 954-764-5150 or visit SunServe. org.

Food Truck Invasion

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

Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. An all encompassing social group, those 18 to 29 who consider themselves to be lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual, questioning, or anything in between are welcome to join! Free. Call 561-533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com.

Compass Entourage

Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Free. Gay and bisexual men ages 18 to 29 are invited to socialize and meet new people with different planned activities, such as movie nights, volleyball games, discussion groups, nights out, and more. Free. Call 561533-9699 or visit CompassGLCC.com.

Green Market

Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon at West Palm Beach Waterfront, 101 S. Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach. A relaxing morning of shopping through green vendors and live entertainment. Contact Katrina Resch 561822-1520 or KResch@wpb.org.

Seniors vs. Crime

By appointment at the Mae Volen Senior Center, 1515 W. Palmetto Park Road in Boca Raton. Seniors who have been victimized by businesses or service providers can get help. Call 561-736-3820 or 561-395-8920.

miami-dade county A Day in the Life of Coral

Through Jan. 18, 2016 at Museum Park, 1075 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. New York-based artist David Brooks presents billboards of coral around Miami and its changing atmosphere. Free. Visit FringeProjectsMiami.com

Mercado De San Miguel

Through Jan. 30, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Bayfront Park, 1075 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Fridays and Saturdays will be transformed into La Feria del Mercada de San Miguel, a traditional market in Spain, fit with food-related activities every time. Free. Visit BayfrontParkMiami.com.

Arsht Center Farmers Market

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

Rainbow Circle

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

HIV Support Group

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

Book Study

Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Drolma Kadampa Buddhist Center, 1273 Coral Way in Miami. Buddhist monk, Gen Kelsang Nurbu, will lead classes on learning the foundations of Buddhism. Call 786-529-7137.

Miami Log Cabin Republicans Fourth Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. at Larios, 7705 W. Flagler St. in Miami. with other like-minded people and from speakers in the community. LogCabin.org/chapter/florida-miami.

Casa Meet hear Visit

* Denotes New Listing

porn pulse

Photo: Yusaf Mack, Facebook.

Boxer feSSeS up to gaY porn paSt

Hunter Houston

ell, well, well. Another liar has been caught. Yes, a has-been boxer floated a false narrative last week and now the chickens have come home to roost. Yusaf Mack, a onetime light heavyweight boxer, told reporters last week he had been drugged and did not remember participating in a gay adult film. Mack told Philly.com he took a pill with some vodka and woke up hours later on a train bound for nowhere with $4,500 in cash in his pocket. However, of course, there is video to the contrary. DawgPoundUSA.com posted the scene of Mack with two other men. The website specializes in gay porn featuring AfricanAmerican actors. In a statement issued to the website Towleroad.com, Mack apologized for suggesting he was drugged and reneged on his previous claim that he was unaware of his actions. “I did participate in the adult film because at the time I needed money but also because I am a bisexual male,” Mack said. “Meaning I enjoy safely being intimate with whomever I choose.”

Mack, 35, is the father of 10 children and he expressed what is well-known, but seldom discussed openly in the African-American community regarding sexual orientation. “The extreme taboo and harsh criticism of living a same-sex lifestyle, especially as an African-American male, makes it hard to be completely honest and comfortable with yourself,” he told Towleroad.

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attorney

help wanted GIRL FRIDAY 4 U is looking for some new talent in South Florida. We are currently filling positions for home and business cleaners and office assistants. Please contact Billy at 954.601.GF4U or billy@ girlfriday4u.com. EARN $300 PER DAY - Help Legalize Medical Marijuana & Solar Energy! You will be paid $1 per signature for MMJ & $3 per signature for Solar Energy. Work in a busy area & receive 100's of signatures. Start Immediately! 954.616.7736 or 754.204.0114.

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

home & garden

licensed massage

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employment - full time COMMISSION ONLY SALES ASSISTANT NEEDED - Sales Assistant needed for merchant services company representative in local area. Commission Only. Must have reliable transportation. Must have experience with B2B Sales. Fax current resume and references to (954)909-4905 EXPERIENCED CAREGIVER NEEDED Disabled GWM and Roommate need experienced caregiver.Must have reliable transportation. Background check required.Fax current resume and references to (954)909-4905

home & garden cleaning services

automotive THE BEST WINDOW TINTING IN FT. LAUDERDALE! - Solar Cut Tinting offers state-ofthe-art computer cut window tinting for car, home, office, or boat. Let us cool you down today! Call us at (954) 657-8087, or visit www.SolarCutTint.com.

computer

RELIABLE AND REASONABLY PRICED COMPUTER SERVICE - Is your PC or MAC running slow? We have the solution. We provide virus malware removal, data preservation, OS upgrades and PC/MAC security. Over 10 years in business. Call Rick at (954) 232-1824 www. YourComputerade.Com

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

entertainment/dj's

LIVE JAZZ FOR YOUR NEXT PARTY OR SPECIAL EVENT - Have your next special occassion be extra special with live jazz. Jazz vocalist with over 30 years experience performing in South Florida.No tapes or tracks.I work with South Florida's finest jazz musicians to make your special affair one to remember. Reasonable rates. Call Cindy at 954-298-8158 www.myspace.com/cindycurtisandcompany.

• 11.4.2015

CLEAN IT RIGHT! - The best cleaning for your buck. 1BD $60, 2BD $70, 3BD $80 and up. Excellent rates & references. 10 years in business. Serving Broward, North Miami-Dade & S. Palm Beach. Call Manny 954-560-4443. 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 INTERIOR/EXTERIOR, GREAT RATES, *FREE ESTIMATES* - Friendliness, reliability, neatness. No job too small. Pressure Cleaning also available. Call Gregg at 617-306-5693 or 954-870-5972.

home and garden painting GREGG'S PAINTING - Interior/exterior,great rates, friendliness, reliability, neatness. No job too small. Call Gregg at 617-306-5694 or 954-8705972.

Serving Broward Since 1999

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

home health care EXPERIENCED PERSONAL CARE ATTENDANT NEEDED - Job duties include light cooking, housekeeping,laundry and must know how to operate a hoyer lift. Please fax resume to Chris at 954-909-4905

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licensed massage INCREDIBLY AWESOME BODYWORK IN WPB In-calls at a private studio 15 minutes west of PBIA. Intuitive, experienced licensed massage therapist offers affordable rates 7 days, early to late. ASK ABOUT WEEKLY SPECIALS!Calls only 561-2548065 for the very best massage experience you can get HANDS DOWN! #MA51008 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

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.

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rentals - wanted LOOKING FOR RENT TO OWN PROPERTY - Looking for Rent to Own property for Disabled GWM and roommate to occupy.Owner must permit wheelchair modifications to be made by licensed contractor. If interested, please email Chris at cgcemploy@gmail.com

pets/supplies

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real estate agents FLORIDA’S TOP GAY REALTORS - Instant FREE Access to Florida and the Nation’s Top Gay Realtors. Free Buyers Representation! On-line: www.GayRealEstate.com or Toll Free 1-888-420MOVE (6683)

rentals

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

rentals vacation rentals

“FILL THE VACANCY RATES” SUNDAYTHURSDAY - Need a last minute room? Take advantage of our $79 dollar rates at the NEW Calypso Inn, Wilton Manors. Not good for reservations. Good for one night only. Valid major credit card required. Phone Wes Leigh at 954605-3561 to see if there is a vacancy.

self help

spiritual REVIVE!! ANNOINTED WORSHIP, PRAISE, AND PREACHING FOR ALL OF GOD'S PEOPLE - Join the leadership of F.G.C.O.L Nov. 5-8th, 2015, as we celebrate our 8th anniversary, 1200 NE 135th St., North Miami, Fl. 33161. www.firstgloriouschurchoflove.com 11.4.2015 •

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The new power couple. Introducing the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC.