local name global coverage November 14, 2018 vol. 9 // issue 46
f o t Bes 2018 Begins in Center
Broward • Key West • Miami • Palm Beach • Broward • Key West • Miami • Palm Beach • Broward • Key West • Miami • Palm Beach
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No recount required. Key West • Miami • Palm Beach • Broward • Key West • Miami • Palm Beach • Broward • Key West • Miami • Palm Beach • Broward
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NEWS state
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Media Reports Get it Wrong:
Key west winner Not First Lesbian Mayor of Florida
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November 14, 2018 • Volume 9 • Issue 46 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943
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T
here’s no denying there was a rainbow wave on election night with LGBT candidates across the country making historic gains at the state and federal level. One such person many articles in Florida mentioned was Teri Johnston as Florida’s first lesbian mayor. Except that’s not accurate – not even close. In Palm Beach County alone there has been at least two openly lesbian mayors, both of whom SFGN has covered in the past. Betty James served as Cloud Lake’s mayor from 2007 to 2011, while Myra Koutzen was elected mayor of Palm Beach Shores in 2013. shouldn’t be my job to correct ‘one of our The misinformation seems to originate state’s largest’ LGBTQ news sources,” Hoch from a press release sent out by Equality wrote to SFGN. “But it seems like I keep Florida, the state’s largest LGBT rights having to do that.” organization. Hoch has tussled with Equality Florida “In municipal breakthroughs, Teri Johnston many times in the past over LGBT rights became the first lesbian issues and LGBT information candidate elected mayor relating to Palm Beach County. of a Florida city with her “You would think that after history-making win in Key 22 years, Equality Florida would West,” the article reads. maintain a list of openly LGBTQ Many publications around elected officials in Florida,” Hoch Florida ended up writing said. “But apparently, they don’t. about Johnston’s historic It’s not like the list is huge!” win including the Miami Victory Fund, a national LGBT Herald and Tampa Bay organization that helps elect Times – both publications openly LGBT candidates, also got though altered their stories it wrong. On their website they once they found out about had a profile page for Johnston the mistake. The Associated stating, “Teri will be Florida first Press, a news wire that many Lesbian Mayor.” It was corrected - Rand Hoch LGBT Activist media outlets around the Friday to read, “Teri will be one world rely on for stories also of Florida’s first lesbian mayors.” got it wrong. The Miami Herald began their story like Rand Hoch, an LGBT activist and founder this: “Teri Johnston didn’t know she was of the Palm Beach County Human Rights about to make Florida history as the first Council, spent time this week contacting the openly gay woman elected mayor in a major various publications to correct the record. Florida city.” “I’m a volunteer LGBTQ activist and it Hoch said the original story did not include MEMBER
“I’m a volunteer LGBTQ activist and it shouldn’t be my job to correct ‘one of our state’s largest’ LGBTQ news sources.”
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the word “major.” But even so few people would describe Key West as a major city in Florida with a population of only 26,000. “LGBT people are still very underrepresented in elected office and bring an all too rare perspective to the political discourse, which is evidenced by the fact that Teri Johnston is the first lesbian candidate ever elected mayor in our state,” Stratton Pollitzer, deputy director of Equality Florida, told the Miami Herald. The Herald then noted, “Pollitzer said there has been an openly lesbian mayor in Florida, but she only came out while in office. Johnston is the first lesbian elected mayor in a major Florida city, he said.” Hoch though disputes that assertion as well. And SFGN has written about James and Koutzen in the past. Hoch goes on to add there was a third lesbian mayor in Palm Beach County at one time but he’s unsure how open she was. Koutzen told SFGN earlier this year, “The people in my town all know who I am and [my sexuality] doesn’t seem to play a role in whether they vote for me, don’t vote for me, support me, don’t support me,” she said. “It’s a very small town, so I have a personal relationship with many of the voters.”
Cover 1: The waiter at La Bamba, a business voted as a winner in SFGN's annual Best Of. Photo credit: J.R. Davis. Cover 2: Women In Network, an organization voted as a winner in SFGN's annual Best Of. Photo via Facebook.
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11.14.2018 •
3
NEWS miami-dade
A Different Way to Celebrate
Thanksgiving Weekend
International gay party makes Miami debut Damon Scott
M
ost of us are somewhat content to gather around the table and eat a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Visit with family and friends. Maybe hit the stores on Black Friday for some deals before Christmas. Take a nap.
A welcome cocktail reception kicks off the spectacle on Thanksgiving night on the rooftop of the Miami Beach host hotel – Clevelander Hotel – followed by an opening night party featuring the music of DJs Maikol Venek and Ana Paula. On Black Friday, it’ll be less shopping at the mall and more music and dancing at Matinée’s “Pervert Party” at Club Space. Featured music at that event comes from DJs Lydia Sanz (from And then there’s Miami. And parties. And Spain) and Tom Stephan (from the UK). And what would a massive gay gathering lots of gay people. For the first time, Circuit Festival Miami be without a pool party? Put on your best comes to South Beach for a three-day, four- swimsuit and hit the waters at the Clevelander night “steamy beach party” over Thanksgiving Hotel on Nov. 24. Later that evening, weekend. wear some sports The party producers are Luis gear for the “Matinée Morera, owner of Miami Beach’s Champions” event, iconic gay Score Nightclub, and an American footballHilton Wolman, who owned Miami’s themed party at Soho former Salvation nightclub. The Studios. The huge Salvation brand has been featured 36 , 0 0 0 - s q u a re - fo o t at events in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, space will be filled with Atlanta, Washington, D.C., and other music by DJ-producers cities. Isaac Escalante and Phil The Circuit Festival – also known Romano. as Circuit Festival Barcelona – is billed Moving on to as Europe’s largest gay festival. It Sunday (Nov. 25), it’s has been held annually in Barcelona swimsuit time again since 2008. at the La Leche Beach “We are thrilled to introduce the Party, Circuit Festival’s world’s biggest international gay signature event. It takes event to the states this year,” Morera places on the sands of said. Lummus Park at Miami “Also, the weather is incomparable Beach from 1 p.m. to to any city in the USA, especially 9 p.m. You’ll see fun in November,” said Billy Kemp, - Luis Morera performances from another producer. Kemp is part of the Owner of Score Nightclub “some of the world’s ownership of Score, which is marking hottest dancers,” 20 years in business this year. Joining the producers in getting the word — including many flying in from Spain, out is promoter Len Evans of Project Publicity. organizers said. In addition, the beats are international, too, provided by DJs Taito Tikaro (Spain) and Dan Slater (Australia). What to expect The weekend’s closing blowout takes The fun begins Nov. 22 and runs through place later in the evening at what will be a Nov. 26. Thousands of men from around the “completely reimagined” Soho Studios. That’s where one of Miami’s most wellworld are expected to attend.
“We are thrilled to introduce the world’s biggest international gay event to the states this year.”
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Photo courtesy Circuit Festival.
known party brands – Urge – will produce a Thunderdome-themed event with music by DJs Ivan Gomez (Spain) and the Grammynominated Abel Aguilera (New York City). For those who still haven’t had enough, the party continues from 6 a.m. until noon on Nov. 26 back at Club Space.
“We want everyone to know that Circuit Festival Miami will be fresh and exciting and it will help return Miami to its rightful place as the gay party capital of the USA,” Wolman said. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Miami Beach Pride.
For more information and to buy tickets, go to CircuitFestival.net.
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5
NEWS national
America's acting AG Once
Targeted Gay Man in Iowa Drew Griffin, Collette Richards and Patricia DiCarlo
W
CNN
hen Iowa state Sen. Matt McCoy learned Donald Trump had appointed Matthew Whitaker to be acting attorney general of the United States, he was aghast — he believes Whitaker was behind a politically motivated prosecution that was personally "devastating" to him.
It started in 2007, when McCoy was a rising Democrat in state politics, and the state's first openly gay lawmaker. Whitaker was the U.S. attorney for Iowa's Southern District at the time. A grand jury indictment accused McCoy of using his elected office to try to extort $2,000 from a Des Moines home security company where McCoy was a consultant. The charges came after an elaborate undercover investigation in which the FBI had McCoy's business partner wear a recording device. McCoy demanded money he says he was owed for his consulting work. In an interview with CNN this week, McCoy said Whitaker "certainly tried to prove that I had done something really awful when, in fact, it was a garden variety business dispute that should have been handled in small claims court, if anywhere." The trial lasted more than a week, with prosecutors trying to prove the business partner never agreed to pay McCoy for his consulting and the defense torpedoing the partner's testimony because he couldn't recall many details and admitted he had trouble with sobriety, according to Des Moines Register articles on the trial. In the end, the jury reached a not guilty verdict in an hour and a half, including time for lunch, according to the Des Moines Register.
"I believe it was a political prosecution, there's no doubt in mind, I'm 100% certain that it was," McCoy said, adding he believes he was targeted not just because he's a Democrat, but also because he's gay. "As U.S. attorney [Whitaker] spoke at Christian Coalition events and would often refer to bringing God into his decision-making process and being guided by God's hand," McCoy said, "and so I believe that he was very much resentful of my lifestyle and I believe that played a factor in it." Whitaker has been facing questions from reporters about whether the case was politically motivated since the day the indictment was announced in 2007. An editorial in the Des Moines Register soon after McCoy was acquitted called for the government to compensate McCoy for his legal fees and questioned, "Was the McCoy prosecution a product of poor judgment, inexperience, misplaced zeal or partisan politicking? Perhaps all of the above." A Justice Department official sent a statement to CNN defending the case. "As a U.S. Attorney, then-U.S. attorney Whitaker had a responsibility to uphold the rule of law and pursue credible allegations of illegal activity. The Department of Justice signed off on bringing the case, the FBI conducted an independent investigation, and career prosecutors handled the
In the end, the jury reached a
not guilty verdict
in an hour and a half, including time for lunch, according to the Des Moines Register.
Iowa state Sen. Matt McCoy.
case throughout its duration. The jury's verdict does not negate the obligation of law enforcement agencies to open cases when they determine laws may have been broken." McCoy said the two-year legal battle exhausted his finances and left a lasting impact on his life. "I was putting my whole family in an emotional state as a result of that. I had elderly parents, I had a young son ... It took an emotional toll on the people that I loved and it was completely unnecessary." McCoy continued as a state senator for 11 more years, a position he will hold until
January. He was just elected to the Polk County Board of Supervisors, winning with 82% of the vote. Whitaker left his position as U.S. attorney in 2009 and ran unsuccessfully for the US Senate in 2014. He also unsuccessfully vied for a seat on the Iowa Supreme Court, then went on to create the Foundation for Accountability and Civic Trust, a Washington nonprofit funded almost entirely by dark money. In 2017, he became former Attorney General Jeff Sessions' chief of staff until this week, when he stepped into his former boss' job.
CNN's Scott Bronstein and Madeleine Ayer contributed to this report. 6
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7
NEWS smartride
15 years. $10 million. smart ride celebrates a milestone Jason Parsley
Ten days. That’s how long doctors told Glen Weinzimer he had left to live in 1993 when he was diagnosed with AIDS. More than 9,000 days later Weinzimer is not only still alive, but has become a well know activist and fundraising machine for HIV-related non-profits. It’s safe to say HIV activism and awareness in South Florida would not be the same if the doctors had been right 25 years ago. This weekend Weinzimer celebrates 15 years of the Smart Ride, an annual two-day 165-mile bicycle ride from Miami to Key West that raises awareness and money for HIVrelated non-profits. He launched the ride in 2003. “It feels incredible from the standpoint of how much money we’ve raised over the years,” he said. To be exact the ride has raised more than $9.3 million since 2003, which does not include this year. Once those numbers are added the total will likely top $10 million, an astonishing amount considering the last major AIDS ride in Florida actually lost money in its final year. HIV healthcare has changed though in the 25 years since Weinzimer was first diagnosed, and it has even changed in the 15 years since he founded the Smart Ride. The diagnosis is no longer a death sentence and for the most part it’s a manageable disease. Even so, Weinzimer said as long as there are people living with HIV, and new infections, there will be need for the organizations that the Smart Ride helps fund. So he has no plans to slow down. “This is a completely preventable disease,
but people are still getting infected. Miami and Broward are two of the top places in the country,” he said. Florida is second in the nation when it comes to new HIV infections according to the 2016 Centers for Disease Control report, the latest available. “How do you get to the younger generation? How do we get them to understand? What will resonate with them?,” Weinzimer asked. “We’re in a transition. Those 45 and older remember the worst of the pandemic like Rock Hudson turning into a toothpick dying a horrific death. Today you don’t see that.” Hudson is an iconic American actor who died from HIV related complications in 1985. He was the first major celebrity to die from an HIV-related illness. Back then it was easier to scare people with the threat of an HIV infection, Weinzimer said. But now with so many more prevention options available, and the fact HIV can be treated relatively easy, educating carefree youth has become more difficult. But it’s the younger generation that is more at risk for HIV according to the CDC. The age group that leads the way in new infections is 20-24 year olds. Next is 25-29, then 30-34 year olds. Additionally, men who have sex with men are at more at risk for infection. Black and Hispanic communities are also more at risk. “A new generation faces the same disease, but they see it different,” he said. “We need to figure out how to pass the torch along to the next generation and figure out what it looks like to them.” This year’s goal is $1.5 million. Right now they’ve already beat their best year by $100,000. “Everyone seems pretty energized,”
Weinzimer said as long as there are people living with HIV, and new infections, there will be need for the organizations that the Smart Ride helps fund. So he has Photo via Smart Ride, Facebook.
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no plans to slow down.
NEWS smartride Weinzimer said. “Everyone is fighting.” Unlike other charitable bike rides the Smart Ride gives 100 percent of the donations raised from the participants to other benefitting agencies. “We don’t use any of that money to produce the event,” Weinzimer said. Or to pay any of the staffers, such as himself. Smart Ride has given away a lot of money over of the years. AIDS Help in Key West, Miracle of Love in Orlando, and Metro Wellness Community Center in Tampa have all received more than $1 million dollars. Some local recipients include Compass, South Beach AIDS Project, and the Children Diagnostic Treatment Center. “Funds raised from The Smart Ride are crucial resources for our Care Coordinators and Support Workers. Every dollar raised can be quickly applied to help our families
“Every dollar raised can be quickly applied to help our families at the moment they need it most.”
But even that number is at the moment they need it still amazing to Weinzimer, most. Our patients never have considering they only raised to make the choice to forego $169,000 in 2003. medical care and set back “We’ve averaged a million a their health,” said Dr. Ana year for the last four years,” he Calderon Executive Director said with pride. of CDTC. “The Smart Ride is Weinzimer also notes an amazing resource for the that besides younger people CDTC and the community we still acquiring HIV in record serve. The lives of our patients - Dr. Ana Calderon numbers, long term survivors are forever changed and are Executive Director need help as well. so much better thanks to the of CDTC “There are so many people participants’ devotion and that expected to die that never dedication to helping those in need and to finding a cure to this devastating did,” he said. “For instance Key West has an aging population of people who gave up their disease.” Last year the ride only raised $830,000 careers thinking they would die. There is still well short of their goal, because Hurricane people with great need.” Each benefiting non-profit helps people Irma forced organizers to reschedule the ride living with HIV in a different way. until January of this year.
“Each agency has a different focus,” he said. About 6 years ago though Weinzimer realized there were a lot nonprofits that do HIV-related work that needed smaller grants for specific programs. In response they launched the 10% Lifeline taking 10 percent of the monies raised off the top and setting it aside to give throughout the year to an organization that needed help. For instance last year they granted $20,000 to Poverello for a generator so they’d be able to save their food in case they lost power. They also gave a grant to the World AIDS Museum so they could bring 800 school kids to the museum to learn about HIV. “We wanted to educate the kids so they could make a decision about sex and hear a message that didn’t come from their mother, but a third party,” he said.
Continued on next page.
Several long time participants and volunteers of the Smart Ride share their experience on what the ride means to them. “It is truly an amazing event, the emotions range from tears flowing during the candlelight and closing ceremonies, to laugh out loud moments during and after the ride. The escort of the rider less bike during closing ceremonies really shines the light on the purpose for doing this ride. This ride brings people together regardless of their beliefs, something I feel is much needed in the world we live in today. I have met so many amazing people and made many good friends over the years since that first ride in 1996. This ride has been my vessel to channel the grief I still carry for those lost to HIV/AIDS as well as give me hope for those living with the disease. The Smart Ride gives me hope that so many people are willing to be part of making a change during a time where it seems many people only focus on themselves. I am so grateful that so many of my friends and family members have supported me from day one for a cause for which I am so passionate.” Annette Yuratovac
“This ride is like no other I have ever participated in…the fact that we all come together for a common goal there seems to be an automatic camaraderie and support that you just don’t get when you participate in other events. This event has created a whole other family for me that I look forward to seeing year after year.” Seth Leverence “It is a feeling of Family, it’s a big family reunion and a felling of accomplishment. I look forward to the ride ever year. We are all working together (really hard) to make difference in folks and our own lives as well.” Mark Byrd "I have had the privilege and honor of crewing these last few years, but this year is different. This year I am riding, and I am so grateful to be a part of an extended family of Smart Ride agencies from Tampa to Key West who share a purpose in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Together, we all have the power to create healing through action, education and acceptance." Julie Seaver, Executive Director of Compass
“The Smart Ride has become my charitable passion. I ride for the memory of the many friends that I lost to this dreaded disease including my best friend in 1996. Being part of the Key West team has changed my life. They are my family and we share an emotional bond which is extremely tight. We have become a family.” Don Dotzauer “I ride for all the people I've lost to HIV/AIDS in the past. I also ride for all the people we are still losing because treatment and support is not available to them. The ride itself is a truly amazing experience. I have a lot of friends who participate in the ride, and the sense of camaraderie and community is magical. When you arrive in Key West after a strenuous ride, it is a very emotional experience. There are moments of reflection, remembrance and sadness, but it is also a celebration. A celebration of life and hope for the future.” Ryan Cranshaw, Exercise Physiologist, Wellness Center at Broward Health Medical Center
11.14.2018 •
9
NEWS smartride How it all began It was 1995, two years after Weinzimer was told he had 10 days to live, when he participated in his first AIDS ride. “I went along for the ride. I was really impressed,” he said. “So I started volunteering for them. I have a background in marketing, so it was natural for me.” Florida’s AIDS rides went through several iterations during those years, first as the Florida AIDS Ride, then the Walgreens Red Ribbon Ride and finally the Sunshine Ride for AIDS. The Sunshine Ride failed in 2002 because of the high costs of producing it. “I was angry. Angry at the sponsors. Angry at the agencies,” he said. “It was crazy it wasn’t working.” Weinzimer wasn’t the only one upset. “I became pretty disenchanted after the abysmal failure of the Sunshine Ride, which actually lost money,” Annette Yuratovac said. According to a Sun Sentinel article from 2002 that ride lost about $175,000. But the first three rides, 1999, 2000 and 2001, raised $1.2 million. Organizers at the time blamed it on the post-9/11 economy. Only 87 riders took part that year. Compare that to this year’s Smart Ride where 500 riders are expected. Weinzimer used his anger to fuel him to
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launch his own ride. He learned from the mistakes of other rides and was determined not to repeat them. Some of the big changes he made included giving a degree of control to the participants for where their money goes; making sure 100 percent of the money raised goes to charity; and lastly not letting any of the agencies own the event. Weinzimer wasn’t looking to make a career out of the first ride he produced, or even to continue it. “I only did it to prove a point,” he said. “At the closing ceremonies that year we didn’t even announce another event.” Many of the people, who had been paid in the past to work previous rides, agreed to volunteer for Weinzimer’s first Smart Ride. Yuratovac recalls Weinzimer asking “who was in?” “I raised my hand without hesitation, and from that point forward have proudly been involved in every ride,” she said. The ride continued. In year 2 they raised $279,000. In year 4 Weinzimer was ready to give it up and move on. He decided to turn the ride over to the benefiting agencies. “They really couldn’t agree on anything. Everyone had a conflict,” he said. “Eventually I realized we have to save this. I couldn’t let this go up in flames. So we jumped back in.”
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Over 700 bicycle riders and support staff made participated in this year's Smart Ride 12. The ride ended with a ceremony at the end of the White Street Pier. Photo by Pete Arnow.
“We wanted for the event to actually help people in need, and for the funds raised not go to production and administration fees.”
Mark Byrd remembers riding said Jacqueline King, in the original Florida AIDS Macy’s spokesperson. “We Ride in 1995. He’s also now been honored to be a partner involved with all 15 Smart Rides with Smart Ride again this and serves on its board. year to help raise awareness “We wanted for the event to and make a difference in actually help people in need, and the lives of those affected for the funds raised not go to by HIV/AIDS.” - Mark Byrd production and administration Each rider also pays a Smart Ride Board fees,” Byrd said. $95 registration fee that is Member That first incarnation of the used to offset the cost of ride was called Bike It & B.E.A.R. the event. (Because Education Achieves “Each benefitting agency Results), which raised $169,000. The original has to also help find sponsors,” Weinzimer benefitting agencies included Florida AIDS said. Action, Broward House, Sarasota CAN, South For the past 4-5 years Weinzimer has Beach AIDS Project and the Hug Me Program. taken a salary and has two paid part-timers Today the Smart Ride is the second largest working for him. AIDS bike ride in the country with more Turning 15 the ride may be aging, but for than 500 riders expected to participate this Weinzimer it doesn’t get old. weekend. “On year one during the closing ceremony Producing the ride though is costly – on the stage in Key West while watching about $300,000. Since the annual ride takes those riders, riding toward me, it was beyond place over two days the biggest expense overwhelming especially to think about how is the overnight housing for the crew and these people put their trust me,” he said. riders costing about $80,000. Because every “As the years progressed that feeling hasn’t dollar raised goes to the benefiting agencies faded. But now I just stand in awe as they they have to find money elsewhere to covers approach watching the high fives, the smiles, the production costs. the celebration. How pumped they are. I “Our ride succeeds on sponsorships,” don’t think they always grasp the magnitude Weinzimer said. of what they accomplished. It’s more than One such sponsor is Macy’s. just a celebration of two days, it’s the months “Macy’s is committed to Making Life Shine of work, the training, the fundraising. Brighter through service to our customers, But standing there is always my proudest our communities and our colleagues,” moment.”
The Smart Ride takes place Nov. 16-17.
To learn more about the annual bike ride visit TheSmartRide.org.
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11.14.2018 •
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NEWS national
The Rainbow Wave Continues Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona will become first openly bisexual Senator; most ever openly LGBT people to elected to Congress Lisa Keen
Keen News Service
M
edia organizations called the U.S. Senate race Monday night for U.S. Rep. Kyrsten Sinema, who becomes the first openly bisexual person to be elected to the U.S. Senate. Sinema’s victory is a major one for the Congresswoman Sinema voted “in line with” LGBT community, which has only one other President Trump’s position 57.4 percent of member of the Senate: U.S. Senator Tammy the time. That compares with liberal Senator Baldwin of Wisconsin. Baldwin’s 22.1 percent. LGBTQ Victory Fund President Annise Sinema’s win brings to 10 the number of Parker called Sinema’s victory a “game openly LGBT people who will be serving in changer.” Congress next session: two senators and “An LGBTQ woman winning a U.S. Senate eight members of the House. It will represent seat in a state that voted for Trump is a game- the largest number of openly LGBT people changer, both for the LGBTQ community and ever to serve in any Congress, surpassing the Democratic party,” said 2013 when there were seven. Parker. With both Baldwin Of the eight House and Sinema in the Senate, members, four are first-time she said, “the U.S. Senate will members: Chris Pappas of certainly find our community New Hampshire, Sharice more difficult to ignore.” Davids of Kansas, Angie Craig Information from the of Minnesota, and Katie Hill of Arizona Secretary of State California. Hill’s race, another Monday night showed Sinema cliffhanger, was called the more than 38,000 votes ahead day after the election. She of her Republican competitor, defeated well-known antiRep. Martha McSally. Sinema LGBT incumbent Steve was behind when the polls Knight. closed, but Arizona had an The five incumbents reunprecedented number of elected included Senator “early ballots” handed in on Baldwin of Wisconsin and election day, causing a delay Reps. David Cicilline of Rhode in reaching a final count. Island, Sean Patrick Maloney But Associated Press called of New York, Mark Pocan of the race for Sinema at 8 p.m. Wisconsin, and Mark Takano EST, and several other major of California. - Annise Parker media followed suit. McSally The outcome of one President of the LGBTQ soon thereafter posted a video important LGBT candidate’s Victory Fund message on Twitter, saying race is still in limbo. In she had just called Sinema to Texas, election officials have congratulate her for becoming Arizona’s first until November 20 to call the winner for U.S. Senator. Congressional District 23. Initial media The credit for Democrat’s success in the reports indicated Republican incumbent heavily Republican state is being given Rep. Will Hurd had beat his lesbian largely to her moderate record and approach Democratic challenger Gina Ortiz Jones. But to issues. According to the political analysis within hours of that call, Jones had a surge group FiveThirtyEight.com, the three-term in votes that put her on top. Then, election
“The U.S. Senate will certainly find our community more difficult to ignore.”
Senator Kyrsten Sinema.
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Convictions
officials said they made a clerical error and that Hurd was still in the lead. At last report, Jones was trailing by about 1,100 votes but had indicated she would make sure all votes were counted and, if necessary, ask for a recount. According to the Dallas News, Jones must pay for the recount, an expense that could amount to $100,000. Two of the four House incumbents are now planning to run for leadership positions in the next session of Congress. Cicilline is one of two announced candidates now for the House leadership position of Assistant Democratic Leader. And Maloney is one of four candidates for Chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign, which oversees the party’s efforts to elect Democrats to the House. In the Senate, where the Democrats are in the minority, Baldwin is expected to hold onto her sixth ranking position as secretary of the Senate Democratic Conference. Although the outcomes of two Senate races are still in limbo, Republicans have
won enough seats to retain the majority and, therefore, control of confirmations to judicial seats. The importance of that role was underscored two days after the election when news emerged that U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg had been hospitalized following a fall. Ginsburg has been one of the court’s strongest supporters of equal rights for LGBT people, unlike both of President Trump’s two Supreme Court appointees thus far. But the wins by Democrats pushed them into the majority of the U.S. House, a development that brings some relief to the LGBT community. In another important win for the LGBT community November 6, lesbian attorney Dana Nessel won her race to become Michigan’s attorney general. Nessel beat her Republican opponent by three points. She is the second openly LGBT person to be elected attorney general of any state. Maura Healey of Massachusetts was the first, in 2014.
Editorial Cartoon
Editorial Cartoon By Andy Marlette
Lesbian attorney Dana Nessel won her race to become Michigan’s attorney general.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.
11.14.2018 •
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Convictions
Mombian
21 Election Wins for
LGBT Parents and Our Kids Dana Rudolph
T
he November 6 election saw several firsts for LGBT parents and our children, along with many other wins that may not have made national headlines. Here’s a broad look at the winners from the more than three dozen queer parents—and one of our kids—who ran. Jared Polis, who in 2011 became the first comptroller, also had a personal legal struggle openly LGBT parent in Congress, was elected to create his family. A New York judge stopped governor of Colorado, making him the first him and his partner from adopting two openly gay—and gay parent—governor. children because of the men’s marital status He and his partner Marlon—whom he and sexual orientation. They successfully introduced after the election as Colorado’s appealed to the New York State Supreme first “First Man”—are raising two kids, ages Court, and later adopted a third child. six and four. His website notes that he had In Michigan, Dana Nessel was elected wanted to name one son Helton, after Todd attorney general. Nessel, who is raising Helton, the Colorado Rockies’ former star twins with her wife, has long fought for first base player, “but Marlon said no.” queer families. She brought the 2010 case Polis was not the first LGBT governor, in which a Michigan court first held that a however. That honor belongs to Kate Brown non-biological parent in a same-sex couple of Oregon. Brown, who is bisexual, came to could gain custody rights to their children. office in a special election in 2016 and was She petitioned for the first second-parent reelected this Nov. 6 for a full term. She is adoptions in two counties. Most notably, in stepmother to her husband Dan’s 2012, she led the case challenging now-grown son and daughter, the state’s bans on adoption and These whom she helped raise. marriage for same-sex couples, parents in Angie Craig, formerly head a case later consolidated into office may of global human resources for a Obergefell v. Hodges, which won major state manufacturer, won also help more federal marriage equality at the election to the U.S. House of U.S. Supreme Court. people to see Representatives from Minnesota, In state legislatures, Laurie LGBT parents making her the first lesbian Jinkins and Christine Kilduff will and our mom elected to Congress and join the Washington State House, the second LGBT parent after children as part while Jamie Pedersen and Claire Polis. She and her wife Cheryl will be in that state’s of the fabric of Wilson have three boys in college and senate. Other state winners were our nation. one in high school. Like many Lisa Bunker (New Hampshire), LGBT parents, she had to fight the only transgender parent to to become one. In 1997, Craig and her then- win this year; Jack Lewis (Massachusetts); partner Debra Langston tried to adopt when Sean Patrick Maloney (New York); Rebecca they were living in Tennessee. Although the Kislak (Rhode Island); Julie Johnson (Texas), birth mother of the child they hoped to adopt and Todd Novak (Wisconsin) in their state’s wanted them to do so, the birth mother’s own lower chambers, along with Nickie Antonio parents tried to claim custody, not wanting in the Ohio State Senate. Novak was the only him to be raised by a same-sex couple. A court Republican LGBT parent running this year. battle ensued, which Craig and Langston And Zach Wahls became the first state ultimately won. Now, she wants to use that or federal elected official with openly LGBT same fighting spirit to make things better for parents, winning a seat in the Iowa Senate. all Minnesotans. Wahls, a former Eagle Scout and state debate Kevin Lembo, elected Connecticut state champion, rose to national recognition with
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Jared Polis (right) and his family. Photo courtesy of @PolisForCO.
his 2011 speech to the Iowa legislature about marriage equality and his two moms—the video of which went viral twice. Wahls, speaking to Family Equality Council on election night, said he was honored to be supported by voters from all kinds of families, and added, “At this fragile moment, it’s critical for families with one or more LGBT parents to have strong advocates for our families in elected office. I’m proud to be one of those advocates, and I always will be.” On the local level, Jennifer Campbell was elected to the San Diego City Council; Adam Rogers to California’s La Habra City School Board; Liz Barrett to Maryland’s Frederick County Board of Education; and Shannon Baldwin, as a judge for Texas’ Harris County Criminal Court. And in an important but lesser-known role, Debra Shore was reelected as a commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. There was disappointment for many of us LGBT parents, too, with close losses for LGBT and LGBT-friendly candidates in several key
states. And while Democrats gained a majority in the U.S. House, Republicans retained the Senate—and of course, the White House. It’s still going to be a contentious few years of political battles not only for legislation, but for what seems like the heart and soul of our nation. This election saw new ground broken in many ways, though, for LGBT candidates who are and aren’t parents: for Native American women, Muslim women, and many others, particularly women of color. And Massachusetts voters resoundingly defeated a referendum measure that sought to roll back protections for transgender people. By focusing here on parents, though, I hope to offer useful examples of combining family and service, and how sometimes our personal struggles lead to public dedication. These parents in office may also help more people to see LGBT parents and our children as part of the fabric of our nation. May they serve their families, communities, and country with equal integrity and compassion.
Dana Rudolph is the founder and publisher of Mombian (mombian.com), a GLAAD Media Award-winning blog and resource directory for LGBT parents.
Publisher's Editorial
Convictions
A Nation Swings Left But is it too steep a climb for Nelson?
Norm Kent
norm.kent@sfgn.com
x
The National View For all the gains nationally, the Democrats are likely to lose a seat in the U.S. Senate from Florida. They have no one but themselves to blame. This is the year a woman or Hispanic could have eclipsed Rick Scott and won the Senate seat for Democrats. The Democratic establishment held on to the same guy for too long. Senator Nelson’s rocket ship landed decades ago. It was time for a change. The problem is the Democratic establishment doesn’t always see they too are part of the problem. Still, let’s give credit where credit is too. Under Nancy Pelosi’s leadership, they forged a national army of candidates that challenged everywhere and won in many venues. They recognized the status quo was a no-no. Bernie Sanders may not have won in 2016, and neither did Andrew Gillum or Beto O’ Rourke this year. Each candidacy, however, proved that tomorrow’s Democrats will have many new faces; a rainbow of different colors. Americans also proved dramatically we will not back, but we will buck, yesterday’s establishment politicians, both Republican and Democrat. Bill Nelson is finding this out in Florida. The openly liberal, Irish white guy in Ted Kennedy’s Massachusetts district found out the same thing in a special election earlier this year. Debbie Wasserman, take note. You were not elected to serve forever. Pass the torch. More so than Republicans, Democrats are at least wisely finding new and bold alliances with remarkable coalitions. From gays to Hispanics, women, and persons of color, we appreciate and celebrate diversity and our differences. It is indeed what we all have in common. Find us that Crayola box of crayons, and color us all 64. We are the modern family. Tomorrow is here. Generational change is upon us. If the Republicans want to remain right wing and Lilly white, on a lonely island will they one day find themselves. Screw Donald Trump’s Aryan fears. America has always been a nation of immigrants. Trump’s 2016 victory was a temporary, foolish ‘blacklash’ against Barack Obama’s presidency, but it was only the third lap in a four-baton race. In 2020, when 22 Republican senatorial seats
are up for grabs, and only a dozen Democratic ones, the new coalitions will cement the foothold they planted this year. The GOP will be flattened. As for Trump in particular, he has spent the past week humiliating himself internationally and nationally. On the world front, French President Macron told him to take his white supremacist nationalism and shove it where the sun doesn’t shine. Florida’s Failure Trump’s mindless conspiracy tweets about election frauds in Arizona and Florida subverts our democracy and shames our country. It is a national disgrace. All indications are that ineptitude will be exposed in the Broward elections process. No surprise, there. The best indicator of future behavior is past behavior. The office of Dr. Snipes has a history of incompetence. Reliable they are not. The good news is that the state mandated recount is proceeding in an orderly manner and in good faith, with independent, judicial oversight. Numbers don’t lie, though. It is just going to be practically impossible for the Democrats to gain enough votes for Bill Nelson to beat Rick Scott in Florida. The final tallies are due in Tally by Thursday of this week. Will the Democrats come closer? Yes, but the Republicans will likely prevail- maybe by as few as 10-12,000 votes out of 8 million cast. Unreal? No, not really. The Bush Gore separation in the year 2000 was 500 votes. The only chance Democrats have of winning the seat is not in a machine recount, but a hand recount. Here’s why. First, they have to hope that the printed ballot was clamped to the ballot machines in such a way that the optical scanner failed to capture votes in the senatorial race. Second, then they have to hope that the 3.7 percent differential in Senatorial voting within Broward County totals about 30,000 ballots. Third, they have to hope those boxes were inked in and not omitted by voters inadvertently or unintentionally. You see, ballot design flaws
Ag Commissioner Candidate Nikki Fried.
are not grounds for overturning an election. You live or die by your hanging chads. Fourth, Dems then have to hope enough of those uncounted votes were cast for Nelson, giving him at least a 13,000 vote plurality, making up the statewide difference between the two candidates, thus swinging the election. To pull it off, Nelson would have to win 21,000 to 9,000, with about 65 percent of the vote. Can it happen? Hey, this is Broward County. The rules are different here. What you can be sure of is that a hand recount will lead not only immediately to a PR war on the air, it will lengthen the stay of national journalists who have already descended on South Florida. You can be equally certain as well that the legal battles now being fought in Broward County courtrooms will continue. There are already five different lawsuits against Brenda Snipes and her elections board. She will not even be around to defend herself. She is toast, and should be. Even FDR did not serve five terms. When the new Republican governor is inaugurated, he is going to summarily remove her. Governor Elect DeSantis will appoint a henchman who cleans house in her office. The Republican dominated legislature will back his actions. Ironically, Snipes has not been as bad this year as she has been in the past. This
week, despite all the lawsuits back and forth, her office is carrying through its duties by supervising a legally, statutorily mandated recount, which will be court-supervised and judicially reviewed. That is how the system was designed to work, whether Marco Rubio and Donald Trump like it or not. Either way, the Republicans are playing a political game. If they win the recount, they will take credit for having gone to court ‘to stop the Democrats from stealing the election.’ If they lose the recount, you will hear them crying on Fox News how they have been robbed. Let’s wait and see what the numbers show when the votes are counted. As for Andrew Gillum, he has almost no chance. Sorry. He was a great candidate, upbeat and positive. Meanwhile, my friend, Nikki Fried, is likely to become the state’s highest-ranking Democrat, as our Agriculture Commissioner, a woman winning the race statewide, my point earlier. A talented lawyer supportive of legalizing marijuana, she will be a lone voice of sanity in the new governor’s cabinet. There is a reason the law provides for a mandatory recount. It’s a simple one at that. You are entitled to know the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Is there anything wrong with that? 11.14.2018 •
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S AV E T H E D AT E , B E C O M E A PA R T O F
LGBT HISTORY!
Any time of day or night on Saturday, Nov. 24 DA N C IN G • JO GGI N G • L AU GH IN G • SLE E PIN G • S WIMMIN G • TANNIN G • S IN G IN G
Send SFGN your every day photo and
celebrate with us
in capturing one day in the life of LGBT South Floridians. Submit photos taken on Nov. 24 to Jason Parsley at Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com. Please include the time that the photo was taken, complete names of all people, city you live in and a short description of what’s taking place.
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find out inside who you picked as your favorites this year Read and share online! sfgn.com/bestof2018
f o t s e B 2018
and the winners are... Best Bar Best Restaurant Best Drag Queen Best City Best Burger And More!
Best Of 2018
intro
SouthFloridaGayNews.com
SFGN’s 2018 Best Of
Best Of South Florida • 2018 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943
And the winners are...
I
n September we asked you, our readers, to vote for your favorite restaurants, hangouts, and charities — from your favorite burgers and desserts to the Best Guesthouse, Business and Realtor. We received more than 6,500 votes in more than 100 categories. This year the contest was a two-step process. In August you nominated your favorites and then in September you voted on the top 5 in each category. Each year we divide the contest up by county, giving our readers in Palm Beach County, Miami-Dade, and Key West a
chance to vote for their local favorites and to showcase LGBT friendly establishments outside of Broward County and the Wilton Manors area. Remember folks these are your opinions — not ours. Don’t agree with the winners? Well then make sure to vote in next year’s contest. Only those votes that came with valid email addresses were counted and duplicates were discarded. So without any further ado here are this year’s winners…
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 Copyeditor Kerri Covington Digital Content Director Justin Musial Webmaster@sfgn.com Arts/Entertainment Editor JW Arnold jw@prdconline.com Social Media Manager • Tucker Berardi tberardi@ufl.edu
Sales & Marketing
Sales Manager • Justin Wyse Justin@sfgn.com Senior Advertising Associate • Edwin Neimann Edwin@sfgn.com Senior Advertising Associate • Clark Rogers Clark@sfgn.com Advertising Sales Associate • Kewan Smith Kewan@sfgn.com Advertising Sales Associate • Anthony Pennetti Sales@sfgn.com
— Jason Parsley
f o t s Be 8
Office Assistant • Nick Adkins Distribution Services • Rocky Bowell, Lee Curtis Sales Consultant • Charles A. Reid
National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com
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Thanks to all of our contributors for this special issue... Rick Karlin John McDonald Nick Adkins
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SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2018
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Denise Royal Jesse Monteagudo John Porter
Damon Scott
Deon Jefferson
Sean McShee
Jason E. Parsley
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Best Of 2018
Publisher’s note
t n u o c e R No d e r i Requ :
Of’ t s e B ‘ s ’ N SFG
Norm Kent
norm.kent@sfgn.com
H
ere is what I can tell you about SFGN’s spend as much with us as it costs to frame annual “Best Of.” the certificate you get for winning. It is not a First, I continue to hate it, and precondition, but it would be nice. second, no recount will be required. You see, our newspaper may be free, but First, why do I hate it? That’s simple. our ‘freelancers’ are not. The printers are Too many of you work too hard to achieve not. The delivery vehicles, car insurance and success in your lives every day to be slighted gasoline is not. The rent, electric and cable is by a voting tabulation that has few controls not. Comcast may support LGBT rights with and almost no regulations. a float in the Pride parade, but they don’t give Now, wait. At least we do something you free Internet. the commissioner of elections in Broward SFGN publishes a credible, conscientious, cannot. We count every vote. award-winning newspaper. We may print But really, can an enthusiastic and who is the “Best Of” today, but there is energetic staff of determined partisans no promising we won’t print the “worst figure out a way to stack our ballot boxes? of” tomorrow. SFGN pulls no punches. It Yes, and I can’t order the Florida Department celebrates our wins, but reveals our warts. In of Law Enforcement to start an investigation. our “Best Of” edition, you can find a little of Don’t expect Wolf Blitzer to call for an everything. investigation into SFGN “Best We all appreciate excellence, Of” voter fraud. I don’t see it whether it is the garlic rolls happening. Besides, it is not at Il Mulino, the Lasagna necessary. Your votes are at Café Vico or the skirt At least w authentic; your choices steak at the new Grille e do someth legitimate. restaurant on Wilton i ng Each year, our “Best Drive. Today’s paper the comm issioner Of” editions capture unveils this year’s of elections a cross section of “Best Of” issue, in popular places, celebrating who you Broward cannot. people, and businesses are and what you do. We count you like and patronize. However, let me say every Today, we celebrate our this. While the ballots vote. lawfully elected winners. may name one victor, you It does not matter how many are all winners. pages you have advertised in Each day, when you go to our paper. It won’t influence our work, whether you are selling real count. estate or baking pizzas, you are building us a Winning gets you a few accolades better community. You are hiring employees and celebrates your achievements. Our and fueling the economy. You are creating newspaper, our free newspaper, gives opportunity and building a civic foundation. you a burst of publicity and a shot in the One of you may sell a better hot dog, but arm. Hopefully, it will generate some new all of you help make South Florida a better customers for you. place to live. Win or lose, celebrate who In turn, maybe you will take out an ad with you are and what you do. One of you may us celebrating your victory. Maybe you will be a heart surgeon putting in a pacemaker.
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Another, like Antonio at To the Moon, could be selling you the chocolates that are going to make you need one. But, as Baby Ruth’s go, he does it best. Our newspaper does not have an official audit of our tally, but we publish the results of your vote truthfully and accurately. No favoritism was shown, no elections rigged, and no one was disenfranchised. “Unethical liberals” have not influenced our final tally. Some results you will celebrate rightfully, others you will protest legitimately. Don’t be afraid to let us know. We publish letters to the editor for free, but we let the chads and chips fall where they may. A final word, a caveat from the publisher. If you patronize and support only our winners you will be only losing out yourselves. There are many fine new realtors and restaurants, bars and businesses. Try them. Enjoy and experiment; deviate from the norm. If we can switch governors every few
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years, you can probably try a new lunch spot every few months. I suggest you start with the amazing tuna melt at Country Ham N’ Eggs on East Oakland Park Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. It’s phenomenal, a taste sensation on grilled, buttery white toast that just melts in your mouth. I moved to Fort Lauderdale 40 years ago. I know a few things about a few places. We have a diversity and breadth of splendid choices. If you won an award, celebrate it. If you did not, worry not. It only means you need more people voting for you next time. Be as good as you can be. Do that, and there is no “Best Of” that can ever beat you. We all have our favorite barbers, restaurants, and bars. If your collective voices and votes showcase a few this week, it does not diminish one iota the worth or spotlight others are also entitled to receive. You are all winners. Congratulations to everyone.
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Best Of 2018
broward county
Best Dessert
Stork’s Bakery & Coffee House 2505 NE 15th Ave., Wilton Manors 954-567-3220 StorksBakery.com
In a town where people and businesses come and go more quickly than Dorothy in a tornado, Stork’s has managed to thrive for 20-plus years. The reason they’ve done so well is simple; they serve a damn good product at a reasonable price. Grab one of the few indoor tables or sit on the covered patio, sip your coffee or teas, smoothies, cappuccinos and lattes, iced or hot, and grab a pastry to go along with it. Whether you opt for a simple cookie, an elegant pastry or a slice of cake, you’re certain to be pleased; Stork’s prides itself on serving only the freshest pastries.
FOOD
While Stork’s is open for breakfast and lunch, many folks don’t realize that it offers some great cocktail hour deals (bottomless mimosas and two-for-one glasses of wine) and is open for a latenight dessert. To quote Hillary C (not Clinton), “The best desserts. Two words: Chocolate Decadence. This heavenly, flourless chocolate cake is my main motivation. Sometimes I just bypass lunch altogether and just go straight for the cake.” - RK
Best Coffee Shop Co-owners Nicki and Steve Rose, know that many of their customers hang out for hours on end, and that’s fine by them. That sense of community gathering space has kept Java Boys going for 15 years. It’s also why it’s captured the “Best Coffee Shop” prize for six years in a row. “We want to thank the community,” Rose said. “The community has always been very loyal. I feel they appreciate the store because we’re always giving back.” But it’s not just about hanging out, the folks are there for the excellent coffee and tea
confections as well as pastries, quiche and sandwiches. There’s an equally strong demand for Java Boys popular breakfast sandwiches. Andy V. is a big fan, “When Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts seem to be everywhere, it’s refreshing to find a local coffee shop that has charm as well as quality. Java Boys is kind of a breath of fresh air- stuck in the middle of a bevy of bars, it’s the only true place that a person can come to relax and drink- but not get drunk.” - RK
Java Boys 2230 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-564-8828 Facebook.com/ JavaBoysWiltonManors
Best Kept Secret Le Patio 2401 NE 11th Ave. Wilton Manors 954-530-4641 PatioWiltonManors.com
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I don’t know if it’s the best kept secret, but it is the best undiscovered gem, and I’d like to keep it that way. Le Patio, tucked around the corner on the north end of Wilton Drive only seats a dozen or so folks and service is friendly and unhurried, and that’s just the way its customers like it. As I stated in an article a while ago, dinner at the tiny Le Patio is like visiting your eccentric lesbian French aunt’s house and nothing has changed. The food showcases classic French cuisine and technique. There are such French classics as onion soup au gratin, but there’s also always daily soup that is vegetarian and organic. The escargot offers a large serving, swimming
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in homemade garlic butter so good you’ll want to bathe in it. The same butter is equally delicious on baby clams. Tomatoes a la Provençal is an excellent rendition of the regional classic. As good as the French dishes are though, my favorites are, those that show a little Mediterranean influence. The lasagna, manicotti a la Provence and lobster ravioli are the best pasta dishes you’ll ever eat and the Dungeness crab cioppino is the stuff of legend. Desserts, $8 each, are limited in selection but not flavor. You don’t go to Le Patio to eat, you go there to dine! - RK
broward county
Food
Best Of 2018
Best Vegan
Beehive Kitchen
6312 N. Andrews Ave. & 200 E Las Olas Blvd. Fort Lauderdale 954-541-8787/ 954-607-2836 Beehive-Kitchen.com
It’s been almost a year since the original location on Andrews opened and only a few months since the second location on Las Olas debuted, but in that short amount of time, Beehive has developed a devoted following. While not a vegan restaurant (the fast-casual concept offers bowls of grains or greens topped with proteins, including steak and tuna), it does offer vegans plenty of options, and has many choices for those who are gluten-free as well. For vegans one of the favorite
combinations is the sweet potato noodles and quinoa topped with grilled tofu and any variety of vegetables. Since the closing of Sublime, South Florida’s world-famous vegan restaurant, Beehive provides vegans with a more affordable dining option. JJ of Fort Lauderdale sums it up, “Delicious healthy spot for lunch or dinner. It’s somewhat like Chipotle except all healthy fresh choices. Looking forward to my next visit.” - RK
Best Pizza Dolce Salato Pizza & Gelato 2406 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-463-7677 Dolce-Salato.net
Dolce Salato Pizza & Gelato has been awarded “Best Pizza,” for the second year in a row and whether you choose the traditional or the innovative doublecrust version you’re going to get the freshest ingredients and best housemade sauces. This is a true Mom & Pop (and handsome son) operation. The pizzas come in two styles; traditional Neapolitan, with a crispy outer crust leading to a chewy center, and a double crust version with a crispy crust encompassing all of the gooey, cheesy goodness inside. Topping options include traditional offerings such as Margherita, pepperoni, and Hawaiian,
as well as more exotic toppings and combos like Capriccioso, Campagna, Salciccia, Con Carne, and Americana. Jorge says, “If you’re looking for NY style pizza, this isn’t the place, but if you want a taste of real Italian pizza, this is the place.” In addition to pizza, Dolce Salato’s menu includes salads, meatballs, paninis, wraps, and cappuccino. And, after you think you can’t eat another bite, you spy the house-made gelato assortment. The diet can start again tomorrow. - RK
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FOOD
Best Sub
Publix
2633 N. Dixie Wilton Manors
While our readers didn’t specify the Wilton Manors location of the grocery store chain, we’re making an educated guess that this is the one they meant. That guess is based upon the fact that the deli counter has a line of folks waiting to have sandwiches made just about any time of the day you stop by. That’s right, folks are waiting in line at a Publix for a sub sandwich, even though there’s a refrigerator case full of pre-made subs right behind them, a Subway located two storefronts away, and three other sub shops within a five-minute drive.
Best BBQ If you love the vinegar-based sauces used in Eastern North Carolina BBQ, Dixie Pig BarB-Q will not let you down. It also features all the traditional BBQ side dishes: hush puppies, coleslaw and fried okra, as well as one not always found on menus; Brunswick stew. The tomatobased dish, contains various types of lima beans and/or butter beans, corn, okra, and other vegetables, and one or more types of meat and makes a hearty side dish option. You might have passed by this unassuming little roadside shack on Dixie Highway dozens of times, just as Steven from Boynton Beach had, “I’ve driven by this place at least 1,000 times. Finally stopped in. Glad I did…Great prices. Very
helpful and friendly staff. Can’t wait to come back and try other things on the menu.” While the vinegar-based sauce is the preferred option, all of the meats are served simply smoked and there are squeeze bottles of various sauces on the tables. If you prefer the sweeter Kansas City style sauce or a mustard-based sauce, those options are available. BBQ is available in sandwiches, as meal combos or by the pound. For some variety check out the BBQ sampler with pulled pork, brisket and chicken sliders. Whatever you order, save room for Dixie Pig’s yummy banana pudding.
954-566-6363 publix.com
I’ve ordered a sub from this location and while it was satisfactory, it wasn’t an exceptional bargain, the best I’ve ever had, or filled with drugs, so there’s nothing to explain the popularity of this spot. Even the recent call for a boycott of Publix (because of its support of pro-NRA candidates) doesn’t stop people from shopping there. Then I saw a recent posting on a social media site and it all made perfect sense. A recent Yelp reviewer commented, “This one is the place to go if you want to see eye candy.” - RK
Dixie Pig Bar-B-Q
- RK
4495 North Dixie Highway Oakland Park 954-772-5977 Facebook.com/ Dixie-Pig-BBQ
Best Asian
Tee-Jay Thai and Sushi
2254 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-537-7774 TeeJayThaiSushi.com 8
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2018
Sweeping the title for the fourth year in a row, TeeJay’s winning combo of Thai and Japanese cuisine with a “dash of Chinese” thrown in, keeps this Wilton Manors place hopping for both lunch and dinner. The modern Asian décor offers a choice of standard tables or low tables with seating on the floor. One of the reasons Tee-Jay’s consistently wins the “Best Asian” title is that the Thai dishes and the Japanese fare are equally good. You’ll be just as happy with one of the place’s signature maki rolls as you will with a steaming plate of curry or noodles.
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Everyone seems to have their favorite dishes. My husband thinks that the tofu pad Thai is the best in the area, while Akilah raves about the crispy duck and the red curry shrimp. It’s not just the food that brings folks back, it’s the friendly service and full selection of beer and sake. There are some inventive cocktails to help enliven your experience. Gabby, visiting from Brooklyn exclaimed, “I suggest the Lychee martini— such an awesome drink and at happy hour, 4-7 p.m., it’s a BOGO special.” - RK
Food
broward county
Best Of 2018
Best Restaurant
FREE DELIVERY IN WILTON MANORS
Best Burger/Best Brunch Rosie’s Bar and Grill 2449 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-563-0123 Rosiesbng.com
“Rosie’s is that place where you go to be part of the community.” - Robert L. customer
You know how Susan Lucci was famous for always being nominated for an Emmy Award for her work on “All My Children” and never winning? Rosie’s is in the complete opposite position. This is the fifth year in a row that it has taken the “Best Restaurant” title. It also won for “Best Burger” for the sixth year and snapped up the new Reader’s Choice Award for “Best Brunch.” So, what makes Rosie’s Wilton Manor’s most popular gathering spot? Complimentary valet service is certainly a factor in an area where parking is at a premium. The colorful, expansive, patio and friendly and efficient staff are certainly factors, but the well-prepared allAmerican pub food is the main draw. As mentioned, in addition to “Best Restaurant,” Rosie’s captured the “Best Burger” category, but that really should be “Best Burgers,” as there are literally hundreds of variations of the quintessential sandwich, from the stripped-down Plane Jane to tricked out burgers with toppings ranging from the usual (bacon, BBQ sauce and cheese) to combinations that include exotic toppings such as; cranberry chutney, roasted garlic, bacon jam and kettle chips. There’s even one with panko-crusted Velveeta! To add to the variety, all the burger creations can be served with a beef patty or a veggie burger, ground chicken, or chicken breast, and there’s also a weekly burger special to add even more variety, and all of them are identified by quirky drag queen names including Wilma Breathstink and Rhoda Cowboy, to just name two. Brunch is perhaps the most popular meal at Rosie’s. It’s not the milkshake that brings all the boys to the yard, but drink specials such as Bloody Mary and Mimosa’s for just $4 each or the Deep Eddy Ruby Red, Champagne and elderflower liqueur (ambrosia of the gods!). Or it might just be the French toast which ain’t like nothing Aunt Jemima ever envisioned! Robert L sums it up perfectly, “You’ll have a gay ‘ol time! Rosie’s is that place where you go to be part of the community. It’s Wilton Manors’ unofficial ground zero for that ‘see and be seen’ crowd, and it’s a must visit for all first-time visitors and residents.” - RK
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THANK YOU SFGN READERS FOR
VOTING DOLCE SALATO BEST PIZZA TWO YEARS IN A ROW!!
954.463.7677 2406 WILTON DRIVE WILTON MANORS, FL 33305 ORDER ONLINE AT WWW.DOLCE-SALATO.NET OR ON OUR SMARTPHONE APP Fall 2018 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
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FOOD
Best Latin La Bamba
4245 N Federal Hwy. Oakland Park 954-568-5662 LaBamba123.com
La Bamba has won the “Best Latin” food category four years in a row. Although Monday night’s bargain-priced Margaritas might not be the only reason, it is certainly a contributing factor. That drink special has made the Fort Lauderdale location of this mini-chain (there are also locations in Oakland Park, North Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Margate, and Plantation) the de facto gay gathering spot on Monday nights. During season the wait for a table can be well over two hours if you don’t get there early.
Best New Restaurant The Grille On The Drive 2000 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors 954-530-3361 TheGrilleotd.com
Has there been any place else where the opening was as anticipated as that of The Grille on the Drive? Taking over the space formerly occupied by a landmark such as Tropics bar and restaurant isn’t easy. There were rumors of opening dates that always seemed to be pushed back a few weeks. A quick look inside, and you can see it was worth the wait. The restaurant’s general footprint hasn’t changed, but the space has been completely re-imagined and freshened with new décor. No longer does it look like the restaurant in a Ramada Inn near the airport. Everything is chic and stunning, from the tile work to the graphic wallpaper. The Grill is run by the same folks who managed EAT a few blocks north. When they took over the Tropics space, they closed EAT to focus on their new endeavor and they brought along some of their best dishes (though
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sadly, not my favorite, the shrimp boat) and expanded the menu with burgers and sandwiches as well as entrees. They also added a salad bar, which proved to be a popular addition to the diner’s meals. Some of EAT’s former staff, including the charming manager Randy and the always smiling server Jamie. While many of Tropics’ former bartenders have moved on, the Grill’s replacements have quickly developed their own following. The Tropics cabaret tradition continues with fresh new voices and a younger, hipper vibe. The old Tropics regulars seems to enjoy the updates as well as the younger clientele. Sunday nights with Victor and Rick have already garnered quite a following. As Marqus states, “We may have lost EAT but they gave us something better in The Grille.” - RK
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The Molina family came from El Salvador in the early 1980s and the restaurants are still a family run business. In addition to standard Mexican favorites such as chimichanga, flautas, pollo en mole, tostadas, and chiles rellenos, there are several steak dishes on the menu, including a top sirloin and cheese enchilada combo. Pompano Beach native JL says, “You will leave here filled, happy and satisfied and maybe even a little inebriated!” - RK
Bars & Clubs
broward county
Best Gay Friendly Straight Bar Michael Pinto and Anne Ginsburg identify as straight, but their business caters to all sexual orientations. The duo opened Flip Flops Dockside Eatery in 2010 with a particular concept that stands to this day: “The doors are open to all. If you respect us, we respect you.” That concept has attracted many LGBT customers over the years. Pinto said he also had a gay following at the Galleria Mall in Fort Lauderdale where he used to operate Michael’s Galleria Café. When he opened Flip Flops, much of his clientele followed him, he said. The typical customer at Flip Flops, said Pinto, is 30 to 60 years old and a mix of sexual orientations. Last year, Flip Flops hosted its first lesbian wedding. “And our staff is diverse, but often predominately gay,” Pinto said. “We hire people based on talent.”
Best Of 2018
Flip Flops Dockside Eatery 3051 NE 32nd Ave. 954-567-1672 FlipFlopsDockSideEatery.com
Soon after opening, one of Pinto’s DJs suggested he start a T-Dance (a kind of gay happy hour). A gay bar nearby on the water used to host one. “It made us a different alternative than being on the Drive [in Wilton Manors],” Pinto said. Months later, the same DJ suggested Pinto bring on a drag performer, and he did. Amanda Austin has been performing at Flip Flops for the past six years on the first Sunday of every month. The slogan at Flip Flops is “Key West meets Fort Lauderdale,” and the décor fits as does the open air bar and dining area. “We didn’t want to be formal. Just good food and a place to hang out,” Pinto said. “On the water you can charge more, but we’re happy with what we’re making and we’re not out to gouge people,” Pinto said. - DS
Best Bar for Twinks The Manor
2345 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors
This is the second consecutive year The Manor has won “Best Bar for Twinks.” General manager Gary Santis envisions The Manor as “A place for all kinds of demographics, where the LGBTQ community and the heterosexual community can dance the night away under the most mind blowing light show, with remote trusses and lasers.” What sets The Manor apart from other bars is the sheer size of the complex, which allows it to primarily function as a dance club. The Manor complex can support up to 1,500 guests with its 16,000 square feet of multi-level, multi-room dance spaces; and it
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954-626-0082 TheManorComplex.com
hasn’t stopped growing. “The Empire Ballroom opened adjacent to The Manor hosts special events, specializing in weddings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, and birthdays. It’s a huge multi level venue which can hold a large number of guests,” Santis said. So try their charitable events like past “Broward Bares All” and “Pink Party for Cancer Awareness” fundraisers, but before you hit the dance floor — don’t forget to order sugar-free Redbulls for your friends. - NA
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Bars & Clubs
Best Bar, Place to Dance, Theme & Karaoke Hunters Nightclub
2232 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-630-3556 HuntersFtlauderdale.com
Hunters is a 5-star operation. And rightfully so, the Wilton Manors nightclub took five awards in this year’s South Florida Gay News “Best of” issue. Best bar, best place to dance, best theme night, best karaoke and best bartender — all went to Hunters. “Hunters Wilton Manors was voted best bar because we have the best customers in the world,” said co-owner Mark Hunter. “If it weren’t for them we wouldn’t be Hunters Wilton Manors! Also, we have an amazing team at Hunters Wilton Manors and as the saying goes… it takes a village. I want to recognize my co-owner Patrick Volkert, our general manager Bruce Howe and our manager support team of Randy D’Agostino, Natasha Ribas and Kurtis Solomon. I also have to mention our stellar bar staff members. They are kind, efficient, friendly and are all great people. Electrum Branding is our new media company and they have been doing a great job in getting the word out. Thanks to all!” Hunter, an accomplished ballroom dancer, and Volkert, a systems engineer, were a couple for many years, owning nightclubs in Chicago and California. Now just business partners, the men bought Hunters in 2013, ordered a complete renovation and built its street cred by helping local non-profits and sponsoring recreational teams. Sunday Tea Dance is a big night with DJ Richie Rich running sound. The dance floor section of the club has it all. Lights, fog, dancers, a big screen projector and music to help get your feet shuffling. Climb the stairs to get a glimpse of those sweaty dancers from Sal’s Starlight Lounge. The lounge is named after the late Studio 54 bartender Sal DeFalco, who helped Hunters open. A visit to the lounge during high tea is one way to fulfill Hunters’ promise of “Spirits Elevated.” - JMD
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“We have an amazing team at Hunters Wilton Manors and as the saying goes… it takes a village.” - Mark Hunter Co-owner
Bars & Clubs
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Best Happy Hour & The Best Drink This is the third-time Alibi has won Best Happy Hour with our readers. General manager Jeff Gapinski theorizes that it’s because most visitors “start with happy hour and stay for a show.” He also attributes their happy hours’ success to the accompanying specials on eats. Their happy hour is more like a happy day, with hours Monday through Thursday beginning from opening time at 11 a.m., all the way until 9 p.m., typically just as live entertainment is starting. Happy Hour is all day on Fridays. During their Happy Hour, enjoy twofor-one drinks and see Tony and Gloria play live jazz and old standards 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays. The Alibi Long Island Iced Tea has also
Best Of 2018
Georgies Alibi and their Long Island Iced Tea 2266 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors 954-565-2526 Facebook.com/Alibi.Wiltonmanors
won Best Drink – for the second time. It’s an amber-hued drink alcoholic beverage with a combination of gin, tequila, vodka, rum, and triple sec. Gapinski said the five liquors are freepoured, never pre-mixed. They are $3 and served in a mason jar at the bar. “The Alibi Long Island Iced Tea has been an institution in Wilton Manors for 21 years” Gapinski said. Customer Mark Viens said on the weekends he “may go to more than one bar, but I like to start my night with their 3-dollar Long Island Iced Tea.” I tried the mason-jarred wonder myself and had a fun, strong evening. We hope you do too. - NA
Best Bar For Lesbians Rumors Bar & Grill 2426 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors RumorsBarWiltonManors.com 954-565-8851
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Spread the word – everybody loves Rumors. Established as a bar where anyone can feel like a part of the conversation, Rumors Bar & Grill has won for “Best Bar For Lesbians.” This is the third time they’ve brought home the grand prize. “We welcome this,” Owner Nick Berry said. “Everyone comes to Rumors for a great time and great food. It wasn’t exactly our intention, but we’re glad to be here for the lesbian community.” Indeed, its diversity that’s been key to the bar’s success. “The place for great drinks, food, people and entertainment,” Rumors features a video bar, sports bar, martini
lounge and a dining patio. As soon as visitors walk in the door they are greeted by a laidback space to watch a game, play a pool tournament, watch a drag show, see a live concert, or try pen-and-paper-less trivia each week. Hungry guests will be well received at the bar and grill; the kitchen is Palate Party featuring Celebrity Chef Robyn Almodovar, where you can order brunch, lunch, or dinner – I recommend the Southwestern egg rolls. With such variety, it’s no wonder so many people enjoy great times and good Rumors. - NA
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BUSINESS
Best Hair Salon
Dick’s Service Station 3528 NE 12th Ave. Oakland Park 954-353-5507 Dicks954.com
Most people would not think the ambiance of a gas station would mix well with a full service hair salon. Somehow Dick’s Service Station pulls it off. It opened in 2016 and has won in the Best Hair Salon category every year since then. Staff at Dick’s Service Station cuts and highlights hair, trims beards, waxes away ear and nose hairs, and gives manicures, which they call
hand-jobs. They also trim hair in other areas of the body. Eric McKnight, co-owner of Dick’s Service Station, said that the salon gives “back to the community with a portion of every service performed. That portion goes to support a multitude of local community based non-profit organizations.” - SMS
Best Gift Store & Business This marks the fourth year that To The Moon has won in the Best Gift Store category and the second year it has won Best Business. When you walk into Moon, you might feel overwhelmed, but in a good way. Over 19,000 items for sale are packed into one small store. You can find chocolates, marzipan, and imported foods. You could find classic toys, lunch boxes, and pop culture collectibles. For an item
queen, it can be almost orgasmic. Antonio Dumas, the owner, said that the smell of candy, or the sight of metal lunch boxes, can take you back to your childhood. Dumas described the store’s secret. “We give great customer service to all. We sell anything the public needs. We do it with a smile, a greeting and a big thanks. And we do it affordably.”
To The Moon 2205 Wilton Drive Fort Lauderdale 954-564-2987 ToTheMoonMarketPlace.com
- SMS
Best Place to Work Out
Crunch
3500 N. Andrews Ave. Oakland Park 954-652-1221 Crunch.com/locations/ Oakland-Park
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Crunch/Oakland Park has won in the Best Place to Work Out category for the third consecutive year. It opened for business in August of 2014. Steve DiGuardi, General Manager of Crunch/Oakland Park, said, “We are a 30,000 square foot gym, complete with cardio, resistance, free weights, functional [fitness and strength training] equipment, group fitness classes, advanced high intensity interval training, tanning beds, and hydro massage. We also offer personal training with our NASM [National Academy
of Sports Medicine] certified personal trainers.” Crunch prides itself on its “No Judgment” attitude. “We treat everyone like they are part of our family,” DiGuardi continued. “We want the time that our members spend with us at our gym to be the best part of their day.” Crunch/Oakland Park had a float at Pride this year and will take part in Halloween festivities. - SMS
broward county
BUSINESS
Broward Center
Best Live Theater When it comes to live theater in South Florida, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts is in a league of its own. In the coming weeks, the smash musical Hamilton debuts in our area, making its first stop at the Broward Center. R&B legend Gladys Knight, the South Florida Symphony, and rock band Kansas also drop in for performances soon. Located in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale, the Broward Center offers a slice of entertainment for the cultural gumbo that is South Florida.
Best Of 2018
201 SW Fifth Ave. Fort Lauderdale BrowardCenter.org
The venue also hosts operas, ballets, plays, children’s shows, multi-cultural performances, lectures, workshops, and educational events. It is home to more than 700 performances each year to more than 700,000 patrons. Recently, the Broward Center has begun offering special performances designed for people with autism and sensory processing disorders. For more information about upcoming shows or tickets, visit BrowardCenter.org. - DR
Wilton’s Manor Doggie Daycare, Resort & Spa 2155 N. Dixie Hwy. 754-223-4776 WiltonsManor.com
Best Pet Groomer South Florida is a pet friendly place and there are dozens of grooming and spa businesses out there for people who pamper their furry loved ones. It can be a hard to stand out from the crowd, but that’s something Josh Meneses and Alan Aghazadian have done in Wilton Manors since opening in 2011. The duo are the owners of Wilton’s Manor Doggie Daycare, Resort & Spa. They’ve got a running groomer on staff — Jodie Arrington — who has a “comforting and Zen approach” to her style that keeps customers coming back. Meneses and Aghazadian also share a strong history of caring for animals. “We don’t bring our work home with
us, we bring our home to work with us,” Aghazadian said. “We own our own dogs, plus we get to say we enjoy being among other amazing local pups too.” You are likely to see the two at venues and restaurants across Wilton Manors with their dogs. They say proof that Wilton Manors is an extremely friendly area for dogs is its current renovation of Colohatchee Park and its various dog play areas. “When you’re along Wilton Drive, it would be impossible to miss a friendly pup or two taking a little stroll with dad,” Aghazadian said. - DS
Photo: Josh Meneses and Alan Aghazadian, owners of Wilton’s Manor Doggie Daycare, Resort & Spa. Image courtesy of WMDDRS.
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BUSINESS
Best Spa & Best Guesthouse
Arturo at Cabanas. Photo via Facebook.
Cabanas 2209 N.E. 26th Street Wilton Manors 954-564-7764 TheCabanasGuestHouse.com
For the fourth year in a row, the Cabanas has won in both the Best Spa and the Best Guesthouse categories. Christian Pérez, the Cabanas Day Spa manager, described the spa as “a full service men’s day spa providing treatments including massage, facials, manicures, pedicures, and hair removal.” The Cabanas Guesthouse is a clothingoptional male guest house with two pools, a jacuzzi, and a tropical garden. Larry Arnett, spokesperson for the Cabanas Guesthouse, said most guests were on vacation. Arnett said the staff “wants to do everything possible to make their experience a memorable one. Over 50 percent of our guests return every year and we take a great pride in that.” - SMS
Photo via Facebook.
Best New Business Drynk Bar & Lounge 2255 Wilton Drive 954-530-1800 DrynkFTL.com
Two days before Halloween 2017, Drynk Bar & Lounge opened its doors on Wilton Drive. Since then, scores of visitors to Wilton Manors have discovered the new business. “The response has been overwhelming,” said Stephan Rioux, one of three owners of Drynk. “We found a niche on the Drive that was not explored.” The niche is for those who like an urban energy and warmth – those who appreciate a lounge with a speakeasy feel, where you can catch up with friends without the lasers and loud music. And then there’s the back patio area – Rioux calls it the “backyard.” “People enjoy the tropical feel with soft lighting. You don’t have to look at cars and you feel like you’re in your own
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backyard,” Rioux said. Beyond the aesthetics, Drynk is all about the … well … drinks. “You can come relax for a midweek cocktail or a Friday or Saturday night out,” Rioux said. The owners felt it was important to hire experienced and seasoned bartenders. They say Drynk has its entire original staff still in place today. “It’s a great team of people who are genuinely excited to be here,” Rioux said. Drynk is the sole venture – so far – for the trio of owners, but they say it’s not out of the question that they’ll explore other opportunities on the Drive. “For now, we’re focused on making Drynk the best we can,” Rioux said. - DS
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2018
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BUSINESS
Best Movie Theater It’s the third straight year that readers named AMC Dine-In Theaters Coral Ridge 10 as their favorite location for dinner and a movie. Maybe it’s the reserved seating, the MacGuffins bar, or the dine-in full service. “We are the only dine-in service in this area,” Manager Ron Augustine said. “That may be why people enjoy coming here so much.” Deals on ticket prices are another big draw. When was the last time you paid $5 for a movie? $5 Ticket Tuesdays make it affordable to see all of your favorites on the silver screen. This location also has film nights for families with autism. The ample parking and proximity to the Coral Ridge Mall doesn’t hurt either. - DR
Photo via Facebook.
AMC Dine-in Theatres – Coral Ridge 3401 NE 26th Terrace Fort Lauderdale 954-566-9666 bit.ly/2ySaGrD
“Broker Joe” Grano, REALTOR®
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Best Of 2018
Handyman Special. 3/3 Wilton Manors Riverfront 3/3 1CG & In‐law suite. Pool. Great layout on the North Fork of Middle River. Amazing view. This is a diamond in the rough. Make offer. $464,900. Lowest Riverfront price.
4/3 in Harbor Beach. New freeform pool. Sparkling flrs. Huge master br + jr master w/office. Storm resistance windows & French drs. 2 ½ car garage. Deeded dock & private beach Surf Club membership avail (40’ Max). No fixed bridges. $995,000.
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For a Lifetime of South Florida Real Estate Experience.
First Atlantic Realty, Inc.
Broker | Owner | Success Coach | Since 1985 1881 NE 26th St. #212 Wilton Manors, Fl. 33305 Licensed Real Estate Brokerage
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Fall 2018 • Best Of LGBT South Florida // SFGN.COM
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SHOPPING
Best Adult Store & Best Clothing Store SFGN File photo.
Pride Factory 850 NE 13 St. Fort Lauderdale 954-463-6600 PrideFactory.com
Best Museum & Best Art Gallery For the second year in a row, SFGN readers chose the Stonewall National Museum & Archives to be the Best Museum and the Best Art Gallery in Broward County. Though Stonewall’s status as a museum was never questioned, some of us wondered how it earned the title of Best Art Gallery, especially since Wilton Drive has so many of them. Stonewall’s Executive Director, Chris Rudisill, though has no doubt: “The Museum believes artists tell a unique story through their art, and many of our exhibitions feature contemporary artists who are documenting LGBTQ lives, their personal experiences, and history through a variety of medium. While we don’t sell artwork through the Museum, we celebrate artists through our Mona Pittenger Gallery and thank the community for recognizing us as a cultural destination.” Meanwhile, Stonewall continues to fulfil its goal of promoting “understanding through preserving and sharing the proud culture of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and their significant role in American society.” We need this now more than ever. According to Rudisill, “our history is threatened everyday as people try to
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This year marks the fifth year that the Pride Factory has won in the Best Adult Store category. This year though, Pride Factory also won in the Best Clothing Store category for the first time. According to Lori Deak, the VicePresident, the store has been open for 22 years. She described the store as a “men’s boutique offering swimwear, underwear and fashion apparel, while continuing to offer community staples like lubricants, novelties, cards, and Pride items.” Deak stressed that many of the
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2018
2157 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-530-9337 Stonewall-Museum.org
Photo via Facebook.
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- SMS
Stonewall National Museum & Archives
erase our accomplishments and attack our right to equality, but for forty-five years Stonewall National Museum & Archives has been protecting the stories of LGBTQ people and the many accomplishments that have shaped the fabric of our country. From activism to arts and culture, our contributions are significant and our personal stories cannot be erased. As an organization, we have come a long way over the years, but as we look to the future we examine this importance and look to build our reach nationally creating a strong sense of LGBTQ history in communities near and far.” Stonewall just closed a widely-acclaimed exhibit about the “Nazi Persecution of Homosexuals 1933-1945” and just opened one about “Nightbirds: Photos of NYC’s Dynamic Club Culture & Personalities 1986-1995.” Future exhibits include “Sisters of the Commonwealth;” “50 Years – The Stonewall Uprising;” and “PULP: Gay Male Pulp Fiction at Midcentury.” In addition, “we’re working with partners around the country to share our collection in other museums and community spaces.” Open Thursday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. - JM
items in this store cannot be found anywhere else. Besides clothing, the Pride Factory sells adult items. Few stores exist where you could find swimwear, sex toys, and same-sex wedding cake figurines all in the same location. Deak emphasized that the Pride Factory tries “to provide merchandise in varying price ranges so everyone can find what they need.”
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SHOPPING
Photo via Facebook.
Best Thrift Store
much-needed services to people living with HIV/AIDS, the stores’ general appeal is largely due to their wide selection and friendly staff. They do not resemble dirty warehouses, like some other thrift stores. Rather, they are clean, clear, attractive shops that encourage the shopper to come back again and again. I visited the Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors stores during the Halloween season, at which time the stores were decked out in Halloween decorations. In addition to its decor, each store offered for sale a wide selection of Halloween costumes, decorations and objects that would give Spirit pause. The clothes, appliances, furniture and decorations the stores offer for sale are not throwaway trash but items that a shopper would be proud to wear, use or exhibit.
Out of the Closet 2097 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-358-5580 1785 E. Sunrise Blvd. Fort Lauderdale 954-462-9442 OutOfTheCloset.org
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Thanks for voting us Best Gift Store and Best Business...
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For the fourth time in as many years, Out of the Closet was voted by SFGN readers as the best thrift store in Broward County. Out of the Closet stores are operated by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) (AIDShealth.org), a global nonprofit organization that provides cutting-edge medicine and advocacy and is the largest provider of HIV/AIDS medical care in the United States. According to the website, “96% of every dollar collected by our stores directly fund AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s HIV/ AIDS programs and services in the U.S. and abroad, providing cutting-edge HIV medical care, regardless of a person’s ability to pay.” In addition to merchandise for sale, each store includes a pharmacy and provides free access to confidential HIV testing. Though Out of the Closets stores provide
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-New December Diamond Mermen! -Largest Selection of Glass ornaments in state of Florida!
To the Moon
2205 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305
(954) 564-2987
ToTheMoonMarketplace.com
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Best Massage Therapist
Photo via Facebook.
Massage By Tito has won for “Best Massage Therapist” for the third consecutive year with our readers. We asked Tito himself what he attributes his continued recognition to from the local community. “Having massaged close to 700 clients I can say they mostly come back for my specialty ‘deep tissue massage,’” Tito said. His motto is “Sleep Eat Dance Massage... Repeat.” The seasoned massage therapist recommends “modalities like ‘cupping,’ a great session to get rid of toxins and heal the body quickly.” Cupping therapy is an ancient form of
Massage By Tito 2201 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors 954-579-9107
alternative medicine in which the therapist puts special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction. It is requested for many purposes, including to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, and relaxation, as well as for a type of deep-tissue massage. The three-time winner told SFGN, “I have enjoyed the opportunity to offer the ‘Best Massage’ in Broward county for 2016-20172018.” And with reasonable prices at $80 for one hour, or $100 for 90 minutes, you can’t go wrong with a Tito massage. - NA
Best Barista There are many South Florida options for residents and visitors to get fully caffeinated – even if you leave out all the corporate spots. And even among all the local coffee shops the competition is high. The quality of the product is hugely important, of course, but it takes more than great food and drink to set a café apart from the rest. That’s where great ownership comes in and where customer service makes the difference. Joshua Bernal’s customers at Java Boys say he knows how to treat them right and make them leave happy. Bernal has now won “Best Barista” for four consecutive years – no small feat in
Photo via Facebook.
the hyper-personality-driven Wilton Drive corridor. Bernal has worked at the popular spot, which opened in 2002, for seven years now, and he often says he’s not sure why he keeps being voted for the honor. Customers are sure: they consistently comment that Bernal always does more than the minimum – he makes sure their visit exceeds expectations. “Josh took care of my order [and] made it perfect,” said a former customer of Bernal’s. And customers say one of Bernal’s virtues is making them feel comfortable – not something you get at every coffee shop.
Java Boys 2230 Wilton Drive 954-564-8828 Facebook.com/ JavaBoysWiltonManors
- DS
Photo via Facebook.
Best Bartender (Guy) Greg N. @ Hunters Hunters Nightclub 2232 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-630-3556 HuntersFtlauderdale.com
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Joshua Bernal @ Java Boys
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2018
Greg N. has won Best Bartender. He’s been bartending for 8 years with the last 2.5 being at Hunters in Wilton Manors. “I like bartending because I’m an active guy, it gives me the ability to move around and be social,” he said. “Work does not feel like work when you love what you do.” One of his more popular drinks includes the Blackberry Basil Lemonade. “I try to incorporate herbs and seasonal fresh fruits,” he said. “Greg never meets a stranger. He greets everyone he meets with the biggest, brightest smile and instantly wins them over,” said Bruce Howe, general manager of Hunters.
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“His professionalism and dedication to his craft makes him one of the very best in the business. We are grateful to have him as part of our team and the Hunters family.” Co-owner, Mark Hunter, agrees: “Greg has many attributes. One being he is constantly smiling. Another being he will give table service from behind the bar. I think that makes him stand out above and beyond most bartenders.” Greg regularly works Monday through Friday 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. “Stop by and say hi,” he said. - JMD
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Best Hairstylist Jose Lima Jose Lima Buck & Beard 815 NE 13th St. Fort Lauderdale 954-399-2327 Bucknbeard.me
Photo via Facebook.
Google reviews about Buck and Beard refer to it as the best barber shop in Fort Lauderdale/Wilton Manors. Only open for business for a couple of years, barber Jose Lima is credited with giving the best flat top. Lima specializes in haircuts and beards—cutting, trimming, and coloring. But providing excellent grooming services is only one part of the reason Lima is so popular. “When I’m cutting hair, my clients talk to me,” Lima said.
“We have great conversations. They tell me their life stories, and I share my story with them. I keep track of how they’re doing and how their families are doing and I think that’s part of the reason people enjoy coming to see me.” Lima is flattered by the recognition. “It feels awesome,” he said. “It’s very heartwarming to be recognized for doing something good for people.” - DR
Best Drag Queen & Best Local Celebrity Daisy Deadpetals The only way Daisy Deadpetals could top last year’s three-peat as Best Drag Queen is to win it again this year, along with taking the top honor as Best Local Celebrity, her second consecutive win in that category. “Winning both awards really means the world to me,” said Miss Deadpetals. “I do my best to put a smile on people’s faces, especially now with every crazy thing that’s going on in the world. To have that hard work and dedication recognized, honestly means a lot.” This year’s double win is likely a result of all of the appearances and performances that Deadpetals puts in. While most of us work Monday through Friday, Miss Thang’s work week spans Wednesday to Sunday. On Hump Day, Daisy is at Boardwalk
hosting the new meat contest at 12. Thursdays, she hosts, C.U. Next Thursday at the Pub with two special guests before playing Snatch Game with audience members. On Fridays, she’s at Rumors for two shows at 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. with special guests. Lips is the place to be on Saturdays, where Daisy hosts the two dinner shows at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Sunday she hosts the Tea Dance at Alibi from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. At 11:30 p.m. she hosts Divalicious. While that schedule would be more than enough for just about anyone else, Daisy now has a day job. She’s the copywriter at Helix Studios and their sister sites 8teenboy and Spank This. She writes the spicy scene descriptions under the scenes on the site. - DR
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Best Politician & Activist Dean Trantalis
Dean Trantalis captured the City of Fort Lauderdale mayorship in March, knocking off a longtime police chief to lead the popular South Florida resort city. The 65-year-old attorney campaigned on improving the quality of life for Fort Lauderdale residents. “All the elements came together,” Trantalis said of his victory. The Trantalis campaign was aided in large part by strong support from younger voters, many casting ballots for the first time. “I’m trying to be a role model and encourage them to participate in the equal rights movement and politics in general,” Trantalis said. “It is very important for the vitality of our community.” “I see a lot of young people getting involved and it’s exciting because we need to mentor the next generation in this effort,” he added.
“What should draw you to Fort Lauderdale is opportunity – knowing that you can build a career, start a family and enjoy the goodness of life all within one community.” - Dean Trantalis 22
Trantalis said he spoke to several youth groups during his campaign and “tapped into” the Dolphin Democratic Club for key support. “Eventually you start building momentum and you find all kinds of people wanting to be part of the success of the campaign,” Trantalis said. “It was a good start for a lot of people.” South Florida Gay News readers voted Trantalis best activist and best politician in the annual awards issue. Trantalis said there is a difference. “The people who are politicians are the ones who are holding public office and the ones who are activists are the ones trying to influence those in public office,” Trantalis said. Trantalis, a Greek-American, was born in Norwich, Connecticut. He received a Juris Doctorate from Stetson University in 1979 and notes his work crafting Fort Lauderdale’s Equal Rights Amendment in the 1990s as a signature achievement. Activists, Trantalis said, are typically devoted to specific causes. In his activism days, Trantalis co-authored the city’s gay and lesbian inclusive domestic partnership law in 1999. Nearly 20 years later he was elected Mayor of Fort Lauderdale with a resounding victory over longtime Fort Lauderdale cop Bruce Roberts. As Mayor and politician, Trantalis said he intends to market the city as a great place to call home. “It has beautiful beaches, great restaurants and wonderful nightlife but that is not what should draw you to Fort Lauderdale,” Trantalis said. “What should draw you to Fort Lauderdale is opportunity – knowing that you can build a career, start a family and enjoy the goodness of life all within one community. We embrace diversity. We embrace opportunity and we present the challenge of life here and in most cases you are likely to succeed. We’re very happy to offer that as a community.” - JMD
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2018
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Best Artist/Musician Jennifer McClain Facebook.com/ Jennifer.McClain.31
“Wow! To say I’m flattered to be chosen as the best artist/musician again would be an understatement, especially considering all the incredible talent in our community,” Jennifer McClain said. This is the fourth consecutive year McClain has received the most votes for Best Artist/ Musician. When asked who her greatest inspiration is, McClain said, “it’s every performer grinding away show after show, giving all they have to keep their art alive.” McClain has been an emcee at the NYC Pride Parade, and stood with Gilbert Baker, who is known for being credited with creating the first rainbow flag.
Best Of 2018
She has also hosted and performed at a myriad of benefits and fundraisers for charitable organizations, including Broadway Cares, Poverello, and Kids in Distress. “I was even lucky enough to perform for a Presidential Candidate right here in Wilton Manors in 2016, I think we all know who that was,” McClain joked. When asked what she may want all her fans to know, McClain said, “I’m grateful for their loyalty and friendship. And because of all of that, I’ll be celebrating my 10 year Anniversary at Georgie’s Alibi this December.” SFGN will see you there! - NA
Best Bartender (Gal) This is the second year in a row Kelly Campbell has won for Best Bartender. “The people of Wilton Manors and Rumors Bar & Grill have been extremely good to me. I cannot thank them enough,” she said. “I have been working on the drive for close to fifteen years and I truly appreciate this honor.” When asked if she had any rituals to prepare for a night at Rumors, Campbell said, “Being sober now for over two years nothing preps me more for a shift better than a long bike ride or
a hard workout.” Although she jokes, “There used to be other alternatives.” It’s Campbell’s personable style - and her interest in biking for the better - that make her such an easy choice to root for. Campbell has supported The SMART Ride, a 165-mile bike ride fundraising for HIV awareness, for over three years. “The SMART Ride is very near and dear to my heart… knowing people who live with HIV and friends who I’ve lost... I’m a huge advocate for such causes.”
Kelly Campbell Kelly Campbell Rumors Bar & Grill 2426 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-565-8851 RumorsBarWiltonManors.com
- NA
Photo via Facebook.
DJ Josh Atom Facebook.com/ djjoshuaatom @djjoshuaatom (twitter and Instagram) Joshuaatom (snapchat)
Best Local DJ
Josh Atom has won in the Best Local DJ category for two consecutive years. Atom has worked as a DJ since 2001 throughout Florida, Arizona, and New York, as well as Las Vegas. Atom describes his style of music as a “very open format. I like to keep it upbeat, usually pop songs with a dance remix, blending the songs together sometimes with a theme.” That theme may be a featured artist, similar subject, or an era. Besides playing music, Atom works the visuals. He plays videos that match his music.
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He also features “festive outfits, projectors, extra lights, fog machines, bubbles, [and] confetti bombs.” Atom plays artists that support the community. He said, “We’re all a big family and should support each other.” People can experience Atom’s music at Rumors Bar & Grill (Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday) and Southern Nights (Tuesday and Thursday). - SMS
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Best Group For Women Women in Network (WIN) WomenInNetwork.com LBTHealth.org
Best Group For Trans People Safe “T” is a drop-in support group for those who don’t conform to gender stereotypes. Its services range from mental health support to even name change assistance. This is the second time Safe “T” at SunServe has taken in the most votes for “Best Group for Trans People.” Director of Transgender Services at Sunserve, Santi Aguirre, explained that “Safe ‘T’ is successful because of its facilitators who make it a safe place for participants to talk and open up about their lives and their experiences. All of the facilitators are behavioral health counselors who allow the participants to design all of Safe ‘T’s’ activities.” When asked what is the greatest
Like advocating for women, with women? Women In Network has been working tirelessly for 31 years to bring LBT women and their allies together to network, advocate, and educate. This is the seventh year that WIN has received the most votes for “Best Group For Women.” Uniquely for WIN, there is a “wide spectrum represented - women who have been advocates and activists for decades, and those who are just starting; women who have been in business for years, and those recently entering the workforce; women in their 70s and women in their 30s,” President Denise Spivak stated.
- NA
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2018
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Safe “T” Transgender / Gender NonConforming Group at SunServe 2312 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors 954-764-5150 SunServe.org
Wilton Manors Business Association WiltonManorsBusinessAssociation.com
In the often clashing world of local industry, business owners should turn to each other. The Wilton Manors Business Association links all the business owners in Wilton Manors and the surrounding area to provide business-to-business networking opportunities. Recognized by businesses and businesspersons alike, this is the first time WMBA has won “Best Business Group.” “Wow! What an honor. This recognition is a true testament to the dedication of the group’s board of directors and its members,” said Board President Tim Moffitt. “Our commitment to local businesses combined with our esteemed relationship with City Government makes us the go-to business organization
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For one of their recent events, WIN was able to bring in Joan E. Biren, an internationally recognized documentarian whose work has chronicled the lives of LGBT people for more than 30 years; presenting her with the first ever WIN Woman of Vision award. Looking to the future, Spivak said, “We’re excited about the LBT Health Directory which we continue to provide with our partners The Pride Center/Women with Pride, where LBT women can find culturally competent healthcare providers.”
Photo via Facebook.
obstacle facing those who don’t conform to standard gender convention, Aguirre said it “is really not being understood and respected by society.’ He added, “When someone refers to themselves and their friends as ‘they’ or ‘them,’ people often give them a blank stare.” Safe “T” is every Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at SunServe North. The group serves between 10-20 participants on a weekly basis. It is limited to transgender, and gender-queer persons only. Many non-binary citizens face an uphill battle against society, luckily, there is Safe “T” at Sunserve.
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for any business in and around Wilton Manors.” With now over 200 members, membership goes for $100 annually. Membership gets you a business web link to your site from the WMBA website. It also gets you listed in the Wilton Manors Business Directory & City Guide, which is published annually. WMBA membership services include providing new business contacts, lists of new companies upon request, as well as current project information gathered from monthly meetings. Experiencing record breaking attendances at monthly luncheons and evening mixers, expect to be associating soon. - NA
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Coffee & Conversation
Best Group for Seniors The Pride Center’s weekly Tuesday morning program was voted best group for seniors in Broward County. The fun begins at 10 a.m. as visitors arrive at the Pride Center’s Equality Park in Wilton Manors. Typically, there is a line waiting for the doors to be unlocked. “Such an honor,” Bruce Williams said upon learning of the group’s recognition by readers of the SFGN. Williams coordinates Coffee & Conversation. He said the time his group of primarily LGBT elders has to spend with each other is invaluable.
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10 a.m. on Tuesdays 2040 N Dixie Hwy. Wilton Manors 954-463-9005 PrideCenterFlorida.org
“The interactions are important for this group,” Williams said. Raffles, trivia, doughnuts, bagels and, of course, coffee are part of the experience. Community organizations are eager to get in front of this group, which often makes the announcements segment entertaining. A sponsor is typically given a few minutes to speak at the end before Williams dismisses the group for lunch. For more information, contact the Pride Center at 954-463-9005 - JMD
Photo via Facebook.
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Best Social Group Photo via Facebook.
Bears of South Florida Bosfl.org
This is the third year in a row Bears of South Florida has won SFGN’s Best Social Group – totaling four wins. President and Treasurer Tony Jones said “thank you so much,” and “our board and volunteers give freely of their time.” Founded in 2002, Bears of South Florida is a social group and 501c3 non-profit. “[Our] primary mission for the last 16 years is to provide social and fraternal opportunities for bears, cubs, and their admirers while also raising money for local LGBTQ+ non-profit organizations,” Jones said. Since its inception, the social club has raised over $70,000 for these causes with its calendar
Best Non-Profit & Support Group Everyone can use more Pride. The Pride Center has won for Best Non-Profit seven times. The Pride Center celebrates 25 years of service this year. According to the website, their mission is to “provide a welcoming, safe space—an inclusive home—that celebrates, nurtures and empowers the LGBTQ+ communities and our friends and neighbors in South Florida.” The Pride Center is a major site for HIV testing, prevention, outreach, education, healthcare linkage, support, holistic health and counseling. “Last year, more than 35,000 adult and youth attended activities [here]. The Center hosts more than 65 regularly-meeting groups each month,” said Robert Boo, CEO of the center. “ Support, social and educational groups focus on seniors, youth, women, men, transgender individuals, recovery, health, the arts, athletics, spirituality, games and more. Outreach activities over the past year directly impacted over 250,000 residents and visitors to South Florida.” Boo added, “many sources of grant funding we utilize today to serve thousands may not be here next year. Here’s the reality: we are going to have to take care of our community. The government isn’t going to do it. We are.” Besides taking home the top prize for non-profit the Alcoholics Anonymous meetings at the Pride Center won for Best Support Group. The success of those meetings can no doubt lend itself to the Pride Center’s open and diverse environment. Meetings are every morning from 8:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m., in Building B. So continue to support the Pride Center, and the individuals you know that struggle with addiction.
SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2018
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Pride Center at Equality Park and Alcoholics Anonymous @ the Pride Center 2040 N. Dixie Highway Wilton Manors 954-463-9005 PrideCenterFlorida.org
SFGN File Photo.
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of fundraisers including the wildly popular “Saturday Night Pool Party,” as well as the festive “The Gay Bed and Breakfast of Terror” movie night at Holy Angels, and “Scare A Bear at Enigma Haunt Haunted Attraction” just this past October. And don’t let the name frighten you away – according to the website, Bears of South Florida “will strive for diversity and acceptance of any person who wishes to join.” So the next time you see a sleuth of Bears fundraising at your local Italian eatery, say hello.
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Best HIV Related Non-Profit This is the first time The AIDS Healthcare Foundation has won Best HIV-AIDS NonProfit with our readers. “The Los Angeles-based AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) is a global nonprofit organization providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to over 1,000,000 people in 41 countries. We are currently the largest provider of HIV/AIDS medical care in the U.S.,” states their website. A sponsor of The Pride Center, and the recent Hialeah Pride festival this past October, AHF’s presence in South Florida is always where it needs to be. You can visit their Wellness Centers
AIDS Healthcare Foundation AIDSHealth.org
to get tested for STDs for free, get your prescription filled at the AHF pharmacy, or even go shopping at their “Out-of-TheCloset” thrift stores, where customers can also be tested for HIV. Wellness centers can be found in Broward, Wilton Manors, and Oakland Park. AHF’s motto is “Cutting Edge Medicine and Advocacy Regardless Of Ability To Pay,” and to many in the local community, it continues to be a valuable resource in the fight against HIV-AIDS. - NA
Best Sports League South Florida Amateur Athletic Association
Photo via Facebook.
SFAAAsoftball.com
For the fourth year in a row, the South Florida Amateur Athletic Association has received the most votes for “Best Sports League” with our readers. Founded in 1994, SFAAA is a softball league that offers LGBT people and their allies a friendly place to meet, play and get fresh air away from the nightclub scene. Today, the league features more than 25 teams and nearly 400 members. After their 2017 win with us, Tim Martin, SFAAA Chairman said, “I am so proud of our league and this honor.” Games are played at Mills Pond Park, 2201 N.W. 9th
Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. The league is open to all regardless of skill level. A draft and tryout clinic is held prior to the start of each season to rate competitive levels for team selecting. There are two seasons. One starts in late February and another begins in early September. Whether you’re curious about ways to get more active, or want to become more involved with your local community, good ole’ softball may be just what you need in your life. - NA
Wolfpack (Softball)
Photo via Facebook.
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SFGN.COM // Best Of LGBT South Florida • Fall 2018
Best Sports Team
A Wolfpack has taken the town. Clad in white with a fearsome wolf emblazoning, this is the first time the Wolfpack team has received the most votes for Best Sports Team. It hasn’t always been easy for Team Wolfpack. “I was one of a few people who started this team after having several forfeits and a collapsed season,” Coach John Bailey said. “We have consistently been in a rebuilding period, in part due to our members being rerated during and in-between seasons.” Manager Rocky Bowell added, “The Wolfpack has been around 6 seasons and was molded as a family first and a
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team second. The last 3 seasons I have been with them have been amazing, including creating great bonds with the guys on and off the field.” It’s been a good year for the Pack. “We have won 2 regular season titles, 2 Hurricane Showdown titles, 1 Orlando Meltdown title and our 1st Bid to the Gay Softball World Series this year,” Bowell said. Bailey said, “We appreciate those who voted!” while Bowell added, “super excited to see what the future holds.” - NA
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Best Of 2018 Photo via Facebook.
Best Spiritual Center Welcoming is the overwhelming vibe one gets at the Sunshine Cathedral. Located at 1480 SW 9th Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, Sunshine Cathedral is known for spreading love, acceptance, peace, and joy. Affiliated with Metropolitan Community Churches, Sunshine Cathedral is known for embracing diversity. Its primary constituency consists of same-gender loving and gender non-conforming people and their allies. “I am humbled and grateful that SFGN readers have named Sunshine Cathedral as Best Spiritual Center,” says Rev. Dr. Durrell Watkins, Senior Minister, Sunshine Cathedral. Some may be responding to our arts programming, some to our indefatigable support of the LGBTQI+ children of God, others to our Brown Bag lunch program, others to our collaborations with other great agencies and spiritual communities, or still others to our progressive message and joyful worship experience. I am thankful that the community finds itself blessed by our ministries regardless of which ministries they appreciate most. Sunshine Cathedral is very happy to be a part of this dynamic community.”
Sunshine Cathedral
1480 SW 9th Ave. Fort Lauderdale 954-462-2004 SunshineCathedral.org
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Best Fundraiser Photo via Facebook.
Smart Ride is an epic, 2-day, 165mile ride from Miami to Key West. Held on Nov. 16 and 17, it raises millions of dollars to fund the fight to end AIDS. Smart Ride is the secondlargest AIDS bicycle ride in the U.S. and the only one of its size to give back 100 percent. Each rider must raise a minimum of $1,250. Rene Cantu is participating this year. “I’ve been inspired by many of my friends who have done the ride at some point in the last six years that I’ve lived here,” he said. “When I did Smart Ride 11, I saw how hard it was, but I also recognized how difficult
Smart Ride
TheSmartRide.org
Best Animal Rescue Jan Milbyer knows a thing or two about dogs – she’s been rescuing them for the past 19 years. About 13 years she started Grateful Paws, a TriCounty area dog rescue organization. For years local organizations in Wilton Manors have stepped up to raise funds for Grateful Paws including an annual event at Alibi in March. Milbyer said she has seen many small rescues like her own go under over the years because it’s hard to say no to an animal in need. But what happens is these organizations can easily find themselves in a hole they can’t dig out of buried in expenses like vet bills. “It’s just not possible to save all of them, there are just too many animals, and not enough people to do it,” she said. “It’s easy to get in over your head.”
Readers’ Choice
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For example, she said, they just rescued a dog that cost them $1,100 at the vet. Grateful Paws is a foster based organization. They don’t have a facility to keep any of the dogs. Milbyer isn’t a fan of kenneling the animals. “This way we know their temperament. We have more information to give to a potential adopter,” she said, “When people ask is Fido house broken? Does he get along with kids? Cats?” It’s much easier to answer those questions if the dog has been living with a foster parent. But that doesn’t mean they just give their dogs to anyone. “We’re tough. We piss people off by turning them down for different reason,” she said. “We always look for the best home for the dog.”
some have it who are living with HIV/ AIDS. My first partner, Fernando, was poz and I witnessed the health challenges first-hand. I got involved with Smart Ride because of him.” Cyclists of all ages are gearing up for the event. “The challenging part is overcoming the mental obstacles I place in front of me,” Cantu said. “Completing a ride such as this one is 50 percent physical and 50 percent mental and the training must prepare both components.” - DR
Grateful Paws GratefulPaws.org
- JEP Photo via Facebook.
Best Realtor Debbie Quintana Facebook.com/DebQRealtor
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Debbie Quintana loves what she does. She believes in honesty, has a strong work ethic and considers herself a deal maker. Those traits are probably what helped her win this year’s award for Best Realtor. “I consider it a an honor to be chosen as Best Realtor and to be recognized by South Florida Gay News readers,” she said. “I absolutely love what I do! I believe what clients like most is my honesty, work ethic and my ownership
of the transaction. I treat every deal as if it were my own. Essentially, I am a matchmaker between people and their dream homes. This is not a job to be taken lightly and I take great pride in that role. I do what it takes to make deals happen.” This is Quintana’s first time winning. The category of Best Realtor was chosen by the readers this year. - JEP
broward county
Readers’ Choice
These categories were chosen by the readers!
Best Dental Office This year, our readers return to Dental Associates of Boca Raton for a checkup. “My team and I at Dental Associates of Boca Raton are beyond honored to be named your favorite dental office for the second year in a row,” said Dr. Michael Costabile, DMD. When asked what made the office such a unique place to sink your teeth into, Dr. Costabile said, “It’s our goal to change how people think of the dentist and that’s what helps separate us from other experiences. We treat our patients like friends because that’s what they are to us.”
It’s their dedication to the community and to the individual that factor into why they have won Best Dentist/Dental Office for two consecutive years. Dr. Costabile added, “We are all part of the same community and support each other. We enjoy chatting, laughing and getting to know them, while providing the best dental care possible. Our patients have spoken, stop in any time and see why we truly are and always strive to be ‘a better dental experience.’”
Best Of 2018
Dental Associates of Boca Raton 5295 Town Center Rd Suite 200 Boca Raton 561-347-8266 2404 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954-440-7795 MyBocaSmile.com Photo via Facebook.
- NA
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Best Of 2018
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
Best Activist & Non-profit Tony Lima and SAVE save.lgbt
Fighting for the LGBT community is challenging work in Florida. “Man, these elections are kicking our ass,” said Tony Lima in a telephone call with the SFGN on Oct. 18. Lima, the Executive Director of SAVE, wasn’t speaking literally, of course, but the message was this top executive has his hands full. Midterm elections play a large part in SAVE’s mission. Lima, the organization’s executive director, is a busy man this time of year. While his time is stretched, Lima said he would not have it any other way. “I love what I do, it’s my life passion absolutely,” he said. Lima received what he called the “absolute highlight of my career” on Sept. 23 when he was honored by the Miami
“I love what I do, it’s my life passion absolutely.” - Tony Lima 32
Dolphins with the NFL’s Hispanic Leadership Award. “What a special day,” Lima recalled. Before the Dolphins took on the Oakland Raiders, Lima and the SAVE family took the field to be recognized for their contributions to the Hispanic and LGBT community. “Within that realm of sports you do not get a lot of recognition for LGBT focused work,” said Lima, a second generation Cuban American. “So I think the Miami Dolphins are doing such wonderful work in trying to serve the entire community. We are very fortune because the SAVE Foundation are grantees of the Football Unites Program where the Dolphins are funding 12 different social justice organizations to do positive work in the community and we’re one of those organizations so for me it is such an honor that they are supporting us and that I was recognized in that fashion for my work in the LGBT community.” SAVE was founded in 1993 – back when the Dolphins were quarterbacked by Dan Marino and being openly gay was hush hush. Today SAVE is a leading LGBT advocacy organization and often cited as a force behind the legalization of same-sex marriage in Florida as well its role in passing nondiscrimination ordinances in various south Florida municipalities. For Lima, 44, accepting an award from the hometown Dolphins was one thing – having his family there to witness was another level indeed.
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“I thought it was a beautiful thing,” Lima said. “It was great because I got to share with not only my staff and my board but my family was there with me also on the field — my nephews, my niece, my brother, my sister-in-law, my parents, my partner – everybody there, surrounding me, as I received this amazing award. It was a very special moment in time.” Lima holds a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in English from Florida State University and a Master’s of Science in Integrated Communications from Florida International University. He has worked on marketing and communications campaigns at the corporate level and is a graduate of the Miami Foundation Fellows program. “Young people need to have role models and if the Dolphins can help uplift my story as an openly gay leader in the community and uplift the work that I do for the benefit of my community it could inspire young people who are just coming out or not sure about coming out and they see power and they see this individual doing community work, that’s a really important thing,” Lima said. NFL teams honoring gay men and recognizing the work of organizations advocating for transgender people “didn’t happen five or 10 years ago,” Lima said. “I am forever humbled by that moment,” he said. - JMD
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
Best Burger
Photo via Facebook.
BurgerFi BurgerFI.com
When you think of what makes a great burger, taste is probably the most important element. BurgerFi’s fresh ingredients make its variety of burgers a hit with diners because of their great taste. The meat used is free of hormones, steroids, and chemicals. BurgerFi also has vegan and vegetarian options. Heaping side dishes include french fries and onion rings that are out of this world. Any BurgerFi experience would not be complete without trying one of their delicious shakes or custards. That combination makes it a go-to
Best Pizza
When restaurants use buzzwords like “handcrafted” or “local” it can often be met with skepticism. The moment of truth comes when the customer votes for that authenticity with their taste buds and wallets. Pizza Rustica has proven time and again, however, that handcrafted pizza and local ownership really does mean something real. “We try hard every day to make the pizza better today than the day before,” owner Pino Piroso said simply. Regulars to one of several South Florida locations say Piroso’s passion for food and pizza is evident. He’s still working seven days a week since opening his first location in 1996.
Best Of 2018
The Miami Beach location — the original — attracts an interesting and diverse community of residents and tourists. “Our beautiful location in the sunshine and by the beach makes every day feel like vacation,” Piroso said. No matter what location you drop into, you’ll sense a “big, happy family” environment among all the pizza options on the menu. “We also have an open kitchen which makes all our employees participate in the experience, and we think our pizza provides a fun, colorful and artistic experience,” Piroso said.
location for people who want fast food, but in a family-friendly environment. BurgerFi calls South Florida home. It originated in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea nearly eight years ago and now has more than 100 locations nationwide. The chain just debuted facial recognition at its self-serve kiosks in Central Florida and they could be coming to a BurgerFi in our area soon. There are several BurgerFi locations throughout South Florida, visit their website to find the closest one to you. - DR
Owner Pino Piroso. Photo credit: Pizza Rustica.
Pizza Rustica 605 Lincoln Road, Suite 240 305-535-8882 Pizza-Rustica.com
- DS
Photo via Facebook.
Best Bartender Roger Lords @ Score
1437 Washington Ave. Miami Beach ScoreBar.net
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Roger Lords has been bartending for 14 years, as long as he’s been able to drink – well legally that is. He’s no stranger to winning awards for his skills including Ultimate Miami Bartender 2016, The Stoli Key West Bartender Classic Miami Champion 2017, and as a nominee for the Pink Flamingo Awards Best Bartender in 2015, 2016, 2017. And now he adds SFGN’s Best Bartender for 2018 to his list of achievements. Even with all of the accolades though
he’s still modest. “OMG I’m shocked, I don’t know what to say…I’m speechless,” he said when he found out he won the Best Of. His favorite drinks to serve include his two winning cocktails: the Miami Vice and Cayo Hueso. “My favorite thing about bartending is introducing customers to new and creative cocktails to enjoy a good buzz,” he added. - JEP
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Best Of 2018
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
Best Restaurant
R House 2727 NW 2nd Ave. 305-576-0201 RhouseWynwood.com
Rocco Carulli is the owner and executive chef of R House, located in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District. He’s run the unique drag-inspired venue with his husband and business partner Owen Bale since 2014. If you’ve never experienced the combination of food, drink, entertainment, laughter and dancing in one spot – Carulli said R House will deliver. “A lot of first-time visitors get swept away by the sense of joy and celebration that is often in the air,” he said. Starting Nov. 17, R House is expanding its Sunday drag brunch to include Saturdays. R House lets customers choose between bites, small plates and large plates with items like short rib tacos, sea cakes and braised lamb shank. The drink menu features beer and wine, as well as craft cocktails like the R House margarita. Carulli said the foundation of R House is fine food delivered with impeccable service. The venue is also a thriving art gallery with a constantly evolving collection. Expect a different look and feel each time you visit. “With our weekend drag brunches, we have elevated drag entertainment by offering it alongside fine food and drink in an environment that is highly accessible to a diverse customer base both gay and straight,” Carulli said. - DS Photo: Rocco Carulli with his husband and business partner Owen Bale. Image courtesy of Rocco Carulli.
Best Kept Secret Punk sub culture washes over you as you enter this time capsule throw-back social space, in the heart of busy South Beach. Opened in 2012, Kill Your Idol began as a space to provide an alternative to the local fair being served up in the tourism mecca of South Beach. KYI is an optical immersion into a time of the emerging No Wave counter culture movement of the late 70’s and early 80’s. A space of art and music, KYI comes to life on Thursday nights with “Karaoke Circus Thursdays” hosted by the incomparable Drag Super Star, Shelly Novak. Patrons roar with laughter as Shelly Novak hosts a night of songs and entertainment in this Brooklyn-esque intimate bar. With no cover charge, cheap drinks and great music, KYI is the quintessential Thursday haunt of locals and tourist alike.
Shelly Novak. Photo via Facebook.
Karaoke Circus @ Kill Your Idol 222 Española Way Miami Beach 305-672-1707 Sub-culture.org/ kill-your-idol
- JP
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MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
Best Hotel Photo via Facebook.
Hotel Gaythering 1409 Lincoln Rd Miami Beach 786-284-1176 Gaythering.com
Best Annual LGBT Event Miami Beach Gay Pride is no more. That’s right, it’s over. But wait, don’t panic. The organization is just changing its name – dropping the “gay” and going with Miami Beach Pride. So the festival you know and love and keeps winning SFGN’s Best Annual LGBT Event will be back next year – better and more inclusive than ever. “The new name, ‘Miami Beach Pride,’ reflects the changing landscape of the LGBTQ+ and allied communities and better mirrors the inclusiveness of the celebration,” Bruce Horwich, chair of the Miami Beach Pride Board of Directors, said in a press released. This is the fifth time Miami Beach Pride has won this Best Of award. “We’re incredibly honored to win the ‘Best Of’
award for LGBT Event of the Year. Miami’s LGBTQ community is an amazing and vibrant group of people, and it’s been truly moving to see how we’ve grown, changed, and become bigger and better year after year so that we can continue to provide a free, fun, and inclusive experience for the LGBTQ and Allied community,” Horwich said. The next festival will take place April 1-7. Each year the event continues to grow. In 2009 about 15,000 attended – this year, 145,000. Many celebrities have also graced the stage at the annual celebration including Gus Kenworthy, Ross Mathews, Bebe Rexha, Mario Lopez, Elvis Duran, Jordin Sparks, Gloria Estefan and Adam Lambert.
South Beach’s Hotel Gaythering captured top honors in the hotel category for Miami-Dade. Co-owners Alexander Guerra and Stephan Ginez opened the hotel in 2014. Guerra said it was a dream come true. “It was always a dream to create a space with no pretense other than to be yourself, feel safe and feel at home in,” Guerra said. Hotel Gaythering turned heads when it opened for business on the bay side of Miami Beach’s famed Lincoln Road. It was crafted out of a 60-year-old mid-century modern art deco apartment building. Hotel Gaythering became a hit with the LGBT community, hosting countless social and political groups. Its
Best Of 2018 Phillipe Starck inspired interiors attracts a young and trendy cliental and vacationers seeking fun in the sand and sun. “Gaythering has surpassed our expectations and our vision,” Guerra said. “Going on year five this February, we hope to continue to embrace, engage and entertain locals and visitors alike.” The boutique hotel comes with a bar, library, shuttle service, dry cedar sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room. It’s a short walk to the beach, restaurants, theaters and other places of interest in South Beach. King bed studios and crate shared rooms can be booked online at Gaythering.com. - JMD
Miami Beach Pride MiamiBeachPride.com
- JEP TP Lords at Miami Beach Pride. Photo via Facebook.
Best Comedy Club Villain Theater 176 NW 24 St. Miami 786-537-5430 VillainTheater.com Photo via Facebook.
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Last year Villain Theater won SFGN’s award for Best Live Theater. This year they took Best Comedy Club. Along with various improv troupes, including YAS!, which is known as “Miami’s LGBTQIA+ Improv Team,” Villain Theater also offers musicals, writing classes, monologue readings, and comedy classes for those who want to get on stage. “I have personally experienced the incredible support towards the LGBTQIA+ community. From creating a wonderful relationship with the drag community by providing a safe, creative, supportive space to performing and hosting fundraising and community
events to raise awareness and help the youth in our community, Villain Theater is quickly becoming a home for us,” said Priscilla Blanco, Music Director of Villain Theater. “The owners and performers alike stand with our community, whether as members and/ or allies. I have found a place where I can safely express who I am and in the current sociopolitical climate we are in, a place like Villain Theater is exactly what we need.” The Travel Channel even took notice of the theater, naming it as a must see place for LGBT travelers to Miami. - JEP
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Best Of 2018
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
Best Drag Queen
Tiffany Fantasia An invitation and $10 altered the course of Henry Williams’ life, better known to fans as Tiffany Fantasia, more than 15 years ago when a friend invited Williams to join him for a drag show performance. It was in this first stage performance where the inspiration for Tiffany Fantasia began to take root in this seasoned artist’s career. Tiffany Fantasia began honing her art, booking more consistent shows throughout South Florida, building an audience and a knack for defining the unique drag experience Tiffany brings to her fans on stage. Tiffany Fantasia made her art her career following a lay off, deciding in that moment to focus on building a career which has now spanned more than 15 years and has garnered multiple awards and accolades. “I was laid off about three years ago as a merchandiser and I never
Best Theme Night Often revered as the hardest working Queen in South Florida, TP Lords has built an iconic drag persona. TP began her drag career at 16, walking balls for the House of Lords. There TP found the creative outlet that would influence her for years to come. TP’s first show took place at the defunct club, Saint. As the song “Officer” played TP was inspired to jump on stage where she stole the spotlight. As she walked off she recalls finding the manager waiting to ask if she would return the next week for an encore performance. And so what began as a $50 a week gig has now become her full time career and passion. “I was sitting behind a make up counter being worked like a mule, but never feeling the passion or reward, and so in that moment I decided to leave my job and
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do drag and make up full time. The rest is history.” Whether she is serving club kid realness, avant-garde glamour, or your favorite pop icons, everyone knows they’re in for an exhilarating sensory experience that won’t be forgotten. So it’s no wonder her show Keeping It Fresh with TP Lords won for Best Theme night. “Twist has been a staple in the South Florida LGBTQ community for 25 plus years. I’m just honored to be a part of such a great legacy and to bring my talents to Wednesday nights. We have other girls that do shows in our Latin room after my show. They keep the party going till 5 a.m. I want to thank them, and of course our DJ’s and bartenders, for doing their best to make sure everyone has a great experience.” - JP
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Keeping it Fresh with TP Lords @ Twist 1057 Washington Ave. Miami Beach Wednesdays 1:30 a.m. 305-538-9478 TwistSoBe.com
looked back,” she said. When asked how she keeps her shows fresh and ever evolving, the South Florida staple of the drag community said, “It’s the music. Music is my foundation and the base of my expression. The music is how I interpret my art and my drag.” Being “Best Of” is nothing new to Fantasia, who took home the honor in 2017. The reigning “Best Of” Drag Star says her fans and friends have always been there every step of her career as a consistent voice of support that has helped her in the hardest of moments to push through and keep inventing and expressing her art. Tiffany Fantasia isn’t resting on her laurels as she continues to push forward in her career as she explores her next venture into the world of music. - JP
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
Best Of 2018
Best Activity For Tourists Wynwood Graffiti Tour
Photo via Facebook.
Wynwood, a neighborhood in Miami, is known for being a prominent entertainment district with restaurants, breweries, clothing stores, and dance venues. But what really separates it from other entertainment hot spots is its street art aka graffiti. In fact the district is one of the largest openair street-art installations in the world. What better way to get to know Wynwood’s street art than a tour? “Easily the best street art tour I’ve taken and the fact that Pedro and Ryan are artists themselves makes all the difference; you’ll learn about techniques, artists’ backgrounds and Miami’s inside stories that will leave you feeling like you’re part of the Wynwood family,” said Carolina G. on Yelp. While another Yelp reviewer Daniela A. commented, “I have gone various times to Wynwood but this tour taught me more than I could have ever imagined. Our tour guide Pedro was excellent at showing us how to view street art to be able to enjoy it at its fullest. He also taught us the history behind these masterpieces which was amazing. Definitely worth it!” While the Best Of nomination did not name which graffiti tour to take we recommend Miami’s Best Graffiti Guide, which was also named Best Tour of Wynwood by Miami New Times. Visit MiamisBestGraffitiGuide.com for more information. - JEP
Best LGBT Bar Gramps isn’t an LGBT bar, but somehow the quirky eclectic bar in the trendy Miami neighborhood of Wynwood won this year’s award for Best LGBT Bar. Maybe it’s because of their drag bingo on Wednesday nights hosted by Miss Toto, who Miami New Times described as a “gender-bending, bodybuilding drag monster from Miami.” “Love this place! Excellent service. Awesome drink menu. Yummy Pizza,” said Barbara O’Dell Bailey on Facebook. “Drag queen bingo was so much fun!” Bingo with Miss Toto takes place Wednesday nights at 9 p.m.
Gramps 176 NW 24th St. Miami, FL 33127 305-699-2669 Gramps.com
- JEP
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Best Of 2018
PALM BEACH COUNTY
Best Pizza Pizza Girls 114 S Clematis Street West Palm Beach 561-813-4004 10965 N. Military Trail Palm Beach Gardens 561-812-2400 PizzaGirls.com
Everybody wants a piece of Pizza Girls. With locations in West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, Pizza Girls has won Palm Beach County’s “Best Pizza” for the third year in a row, with four times in total. The restaurant started in 1999 after partners Jennifer Morales and Phoebe Reckseit wanted to break into what was mostly a male-oriented side of the food industry. Since then, the duo said they wanted to show other LGBT people they can do just as well in the pizza business. “It’s important for the younger generation to know what it looks like. In the early days of us being in
business, it wasn’t as accepted as it is now,” Morales said. Pizza Girls offers both traditional and signature pizza, from their Pizza Girls Breakfast pie, Huevos Rancheros Pizza, to even their delicious Tribeca burger pizza. You should try their “Pizza Dog,” a hot dog wrapped in mozzarella and pizza dough. “Our experience has been so positive.” Morales said. “The more that people live their life as open and lovingly as possible, the more people see that we are just like everyone else. We are all human beings.” - NA
Best Restaurant Howley’s has won Best Restaurant in West Palm Beach for the third consecutive year, winning five times in total. According to their website, in 2004 The Subculture group brought back this historic diner built in 1950. “Restoring the key elements like the terrazzo floors and tin ceilings was key in turning back the time while modernizing the menu bringing local and organic ingredients to an old historic greasy spoon diner.” One yelp reviewer wrote “Delicious, kitschy, historical! I love this place and its old school Florida charm. The service is friendly and the food outstanding whether there for breakfast, lunch or even a late night meal. I
also love the rotating art for sale.” Howley’s menu includes, salads, sandwiches, seafood, burgers, soups, and “snackaroos,” the restaurant’s name for appetizers, such as fried green tomatoes, and the hummus platter. Open 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 7 a.m. to 5 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays - Howley’s handles breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, and features wifi and a full bar, adding up to a great time, all the time. I recommend one of their varieties of Benedict, the crab cakes Benedict!
Howley’s Restaurant 4700 S. Dixie Hwy. West Palm Beach 561-833-5691 Sub-Culture.org/howleys
- NA
Best Bartender
Penny Johnson
Penny’s at the Duke 902 N. Dixie Hwy. Lantana 561-318-7359
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The people love Penny Johnson. This is the fourth time the owner of Penny’s at the Duke in Lantana has won Best Bartender. Her bartending skills have not escaped the notice of her partner Julie Sever either. “I knew she was the best bartender, that’s why I snatched her up for myself 13 years ago,” Seaver joked. “Great local bar with an amazing group of people! You definitely feel welcome here, and Penny herself is definitely a huge part of that,” one reviewer on Yelp said. “I have met many
new individuals here who are wonderful to hang out with! Great prices on drinks, pool, darts, and a jukebox. I definitely recommend checking it out!” Another patron, Kyle Whittaker, said on Facebook: “Amazing location to have a good time and find acceptance. The owner, Penny, is an awesome person and the bartenders are all welcoming.” Johnson, along with Seaver, were both named to SFGN’s OUT50 list in 2015 for their involvement with the community. - JEP
Thank You for Voting Dr. Warner Best Dentist! Your smile should leave a great impression.
Celebrating our 9th Year on Wilton Drive!
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1946 Wilton Drive • Wilton Manors • FL 33305 1243 NE 11 AVE FT LAUD, FL 33304 •
TUES-SUN 2P-2A 954-368-8786 [TILL 3A WEEKENDS]
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Best Of 2018
Palm Beach COunty
Best Politician
Photo via Facebook.
Frankel had no opposition in the midterm elections, a strong indicator of constituents’ satisfaction with her representation in U.S. house district 21. The former West Palm Beach mayor has long fought for LGBT rights. She was an original co-sponsor of the Respect for Marriage Act and signed an amicus brief in the groundbreaking decision Obergefell v. Hodges (2015). Presently, she is a member of the Equality Caucus and LGBT Aging Taskforce, the latter a group focused on ensuring LGBT seniors are treated with dignity and respect. In a prepared statement Frankel said, “I am honored by the kind recognition by your readers. In a time when there are
Lois Frankel Frankel.House.gov
- JMD Mary Lindsey and Roger Hendrix at the Lei Me Luau. Photo via Facebook.
Best Theme Night Held every summer at the Mad Hatter Lounge in Lake Worth the Lei Me Luau has won the award for Best Theme Night. Last year Mad Hatter took home the award for Best Kept Secret. The party is an all day affair with raffles, prizes and drink specials. The bar is decked out to look like a Polynesian paradise. The highlight is the whole roast pig, giving it a traditional Luau feel. The event also benefits a local charity; past recipients have been
some powerful officials that spew hatred and bigotry, I consider it an extraordinary privilege to be able to stand up for human rights as a member of the United States Congress.” Frankel has added her signature to the Equality Act, a proposed legislation seeking to protect LGBT individuals from discrimination in matters of employment, housing, credit, education, public spaces and federal programs. Born in New York, Frankel, 70, received her bachelor’s degree from Boston University and law degree from Georgetown University.
Compass Entourage and the Smart Ride. “We look forward to our Luau every year and are extremely excited it made ‘Best Theme Night.’ We enjoy treating our customers to the pig roast and being able to help our community,” said owner Ron Amodio. “It’s definitely been a great honor for us to go from ‘Best Kept Secret’ to ‘Best Theme Night’. We thank all those that voted for us.”
Lei Me Luau @ Mad Hatter Lounge 1532 N Dixie Hwy Lake Worth 561-547-8860 Facebook.com/ MadHatterLounge
- JEP
Best Kept Secret The Book Cellar 801 Lake Ave. Lake Worth 561-452-5456 BookCellarLW.com Photo via Facebook.
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The Book Cellar is located in the heart of Lake Worth, and was founded by Danica and Arvin Ramgoolam as well as Tami Ayraud. “It feels so cool to win an award voted on by your readers especially because we didn’t even know they were voting, so when I got the call it was a huge surprise,” Ayraud said. “We are so grateful to be part of this community so to win is very special.” Don’t let the name fool you. This is not your average bookstore. Along with having a literary oasis of books from acclaimed authors like Rhiannon Navin and Catherine Banner, patrons are also treated to tasty pastries, wine, coffee, and breakfast selections.
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Their flatbreads feature classic names like “The Great Goatsby” and “Oliver Swiss.” All guests and community members are encouraged to also participate in their community events, like Poetry Night and Drag Story Time. Among all of the cool incentives and added bonuses, it’s hard choosing your favorite parts about The Book Cellar. “My favorite part of the Book Cellar is getting to be part of a community, where people like to come and spend parts of their lives with us,” Ayraud said. “Also the excitement it stirs in people when they come in and can’t believe they are in a book store.” - DCJ
Palm Beach COunty
Best Of 2018
Tie! Best LGBT Activist Julie Seaver
Photo via Facebook.
In the words of the late Queen of Soul and duo The Eurythmics, “Sisters are doing it for themselves.” That hit was written in 1985 and it was geared towards feminism; it’s no surprise that those lyrics still reign supreme today. Julie Seaver, CEO of Compass, is definitely a sister that is not only doing it for herself, but she’s also “doing it” for the community of Palm Beach County. Seaver has been active in her role since January of this year, in addition to being with Compass for over 10 years. Although LGBT activist is not a title Seaver is new to, this year makes her fourth time winning. When the accolades are stripped away and the superwoman cape comes off, Seaver is focusing on her legacy these days. “As I grow older, I really just want my legacy to be that of a good human being. By striving to be a good human, it will make the other roles fall into place: a better leader, a better mom, partner, neighbor and friend. How does one do that? I can mentor someone to bring out the best in themselves. I can listen to someone who needs to speak their truth. Or I can just simply acknowledge someone with a smile or a word of encouragement. The kind of legacy I want to leave isn’t the kind that is carved on a headstone, but rather the kind that is carved in the hearts of those around me.” – Seaver - DCJ
Julie Seaver (left) and Dylan Brooks.
Dylan Brooks
Photo via Facebook.
Dylan Brooks’ patience and sincere dedication is evidence enough as to why he deserves this award. Since his involvement with Compass in 2015, he has been HIV Prevention Coordinator, slayed local and regional LGBT conferences, helped organize the Smart Ride, and served as the leader of Compass’ Youth Group. No matter the job or the capacity Brooks remains humble. “I am truly honored to be awarded LGBT Activist of the Year! The most rewarding part of receiving this award is that the votes were cast by my peers and the community and that they believe in me and the work being done.” He continued: “I also want to take a second to recognize that this isn’t a solo effort either. There are so many unsung heroes who work day in and day out to make our communities better and safer for each and every one of us.” Brooks is one of the youngest winners of the LGBT activist category. It will not be long before Brooks is being recognized on a national level for his efforts. At least we can say we did first. “I have met so many different people from so many different backgrounds that I would have never encountered if I had stayed living in Northeast Georgia,” he said. “If it wasn’t for the LGBTQ+ and HIV communities, I’m not sure where I would have ended up focusing my time and energy. I am truly grateful to work with such an amazing community! At the end of the day, there are still people being treated unfairly simply because they are different and until that is no longer that case, I will continue to work with whoever I need to in order to fix this! #StigmaEndsWithUs.” - DCJ
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Palm Beach COunty
Best Drag Queen Melissa St. John
Melissa St. John is the Best Drag Queen in Palm Beach County. It might sound like an opinion, but it may be a fact. This is the fifth consecutive year she’s won the category, so clearly, she’s slaying it. But success and popularity have not gone to St. John’s head. “I can’t believe it,” she said. “I have been rooting for the other girls. But I feel fantastic to know that I’m appreciated. Awards are rewards.” St. John is the Entertainment Director at Roosters in West Palm Beach and she also designs clothes for a few specialty
boutiques in the Palm Beach area. In her free time, she also loves to cook. St. John sizzles on stage and shines in her work promoting causes and issues both in and out of South Florida’s LGBT community. Causes that benefit from her tireless work, include Making Strides for Breast Cancer, serving as the Grand Marshall for Pridefest, and supporting politicians like Lauren Baer. “I love my community,” St. John said. And it’s clear the community loves her back. - DR
Best Gallery The Box Gallery 811 Belvedere Rd. West Palm Beach 786-521-1199 TheBoxGallery.info
The Box Gallery has won for Best Gallery. Anyone that has experienced the Box Gallery would agree that it is a smorgasbord of eccentric flavors. Two of the main ingredients that make The Box Gallery unique is its curation of the main exhibit and the fact that it changes every six weeks. The other reason would be the actual curator/owner, Rolando Chang Barrerro. “It’s an honor and privilege to be recognized by my community and my peers,” said Barrerro, who founded the gallery in 2016. The content and the context of the exhibition are closely tied to the narratives, critiques, and cultural dialogues that are currently going on in the national and international art world with some exceptions—as in “trendy” works created for art fairs that sneak into the broader less academic conversation of what is seen as culturally relevant. Although 2018 is almost over, Barrerro
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already has plans for the new year. “I am kicking off the year a little early on Dec. 29 with my 7th Annual Black and White Affair with a series of performances, artists talks, installations, and of course lots of Cuban music and food including a traditional roasted pig on Dec. 29.” Rolando’s love for art and his multifaceted approach and artistic activism puts him rightfully so with greats like Frida Khalo, Pablo Picasso, Kieth Haring, and Victor Manuel Garcia. Rolando embodies the true spirit of a Renaissance Man. “Rolando truly cares about our Community and our under-served and under-privileged children,” mentions long time friend Lazaro “Laz” J. Mur, Esq. Founder, The Mur Law Firm, P.A. “He works very hard to bring Arts Education and Culture to everyone, not just the privileged few.” - DCJ
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Rolando Chang Barrerro. Photo via Facebook.
Palm Beach COunty
Best Bar, Happy Hour & Business Roosters is a West Palm Beach staple. Since opening its doors in 1984, Roosters is best known as a place to go for incredible entertainment, good times, and great drinks. That’s why SFGN readers voted it Best Bar, Best Happy Hour, and Best Business. “First let me say thank you to all the amazing customers that make Roosters what it is,” said David Hazen, Roosters Manager. “Roosters offers a safe space to celebrate diversity in our community, everyone is welcome at Roosters. We promote a relaxed atmosphere with good vibes attitudes. In the end, everyone just wants to have a good time and we’re more than happy to accommodate.” Now to its Happy Hour: the first Sunday of each month Roosters offers a complimentary cookout at 6 p.m. and $2.50 well drinks and
Best Of 2018
Roosters 823 Belvedere Rd. West Palm Beach 561-832-9119 RoostersWPB.com
domestics, discounts on all other liquors for Happy Hour. It runs 3-9 p.m. daily. But Roosters does much more than serve drinks. The bar also leads its patrons to be involved in the community—raising money for cancer charities, Pulse victims, and collecting food for those in need. “We have an amazing customer base and with their help we’re able to raise over $60,000 annually for local charities like Peggy Adams, SmartRide, MCC Food Pantry, and Compass just to name a few,” Hazen said. “We wouldn’t have lasted 34 years without the community support and it’s our obligation to pay it forward and give back. We’re very much looking forward to continuing our community involvement for many years to come.” - DR
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Best Of 2018
Palm Beach COunty
Best Place to Workout The Zoo Health Club 824 Lake Ave. Lake Worth 561-547-6348 Zoogym.com/ locations/lake-worth
Best Non-Profit & Social Group Compass is an essential part of the fabric of Palm Beach County’s LGBT community. The organization is going strong, despite the departure of its longtime CEO Tony Plakas. The statistics on the Compass homepage tell the story:
• 6400+ Counseling Hours Provided • 2500+ Youth Given a Safe Space • 10000+ Lives Saved • 40000+ Attendees at Compass Events • 1700+ Rapid HIV Tests Administered Compass has several programs to help LGBT people living in South Florida. The Compass Youth Group creates an open space for LGBT teens and allies between the ages of 12 to 18. The group is open, meaning anyone can join at any time.
“We are proud of wining Best Social Group,” said Amanda Canete, Youth Program Director. “Our staff is passionate, dedicated, and we’re always open to new members ages 12-18 who want to join us on Wednesday and Friday nights from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.!” Compass hosts several major events throughout the year aimed at increasing the pride and acceptance within, and outside of, the community. Its most notable annual events include: The Compass White Party, World AIDS Day, and the Stonewall Black and White Ball. “The common thread that strings us all together is people,” said Compass Executive Director Julie Seaver. “Our mission has always been about serving people and provide a safe space for all who walk through our doors everyday. From every staff member, to every volunteer, we consider it a great honor for our clients and community members to choose us as Best Non-profit year after year and more importantly, trust us to continue to provide life-saving services for generations to come.” - DR
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Every gym has equipment, but Dara Pisiona said The Zoo Health Club has something others don’t: passion. It’s partly why the health club has won “Best Place to Work Out” five years in a row. “I just love the passion and heart these ladies [owners Dawn Malega and Sarah] put into the gym. You can’t find that at other gyms,” Pisiona said on Facebook. “You may find the same weight . . . but you’ll never get the same love. This is truly their passion: helping others get healthy.” The Zoo bills itself as “an upscale gym without the upscale costs” that provides “a clean and friendly atmosphere with
24-hour access” and “accountability and guidance.” Those are qualities the members have taken note of. “This is a great, neighborhood gym. It’s always clean and has everything you need. The staff are super friendly and helpful. No matter your level of experience/fitness you’ll feel welcome here,” wrote Alex on Yelp. Malega once estimated that 80 percent of her clientele is gay so it’s no wonder why the gym keeps winning year after year. - MDO
Compass 201 N Dixie Hwy. Lake Worth 561-533-9699 CompassGLCC.com
Best Burger Burgerfi
Burgerfi won Best Burger for both Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties. To read more on Burgerfi, see page 33.
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KEY WEST
Best Of 2018
Best Key Lime Pie
Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe
This is the third year in a row that Kermit’s Key West Lime Shoppe has received the most votes from our readers for Best Key Lime Pie. It has been long held that the Key Lime Pie was invented in Key West. Ask the customers of Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe, and they’ll tell you that owner and founder Kermit Carpenter has certainly perfected it. But, as Kermit himself said, “Key Lime Pie is only the beginning.” For those not happy with just Key Lime Pie, Kermit’s also offers Key Lime Cookies, Key Lime Salsa, Key Lime Chutney, Key Lime Taffy, Key Lime Jelly Beans, Key Lime Tea, Key Lime Olive Oil, and pretty much anything else Key Lime.
200 Elizabeth St. #A Key West 800-376-0806 KeyLimeShop.com
“When at Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe you have to order to the Chocolate Covered Key Lime Pie on a stick,” writes one Yelp reviewer. We recommend you try the Dark Chocolate Strawberry Key Lime Pie on a Stick! Aside from making all things Key Lime for Key West, Kermit’s Key West Lime Shoppe is also a supporter for the ‘Monroe Association for Remarkable Citizens, Inc., as well as The ARC Volusia, DeLand Training Center, organizations that advocate for those with mental disabilities. - NA
Best Activity for Tourists There’s a lot of activities in Key West, but only one features a pair of pink love birds. Flamingos Rhett and Scarlett reside at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. Named after the famous couple from the epic film “Gone With The Wind,” the flamingos make themselves available to meet small groups daily at the conservatory. Voted best travel activity in Key West, the Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is home to more than 50 species of butterflies and 20 species of exotic birds. The birds and butterflies flutter about inside a glass enclosed, climate controlled environment. Inside the conservatory’s learning
center, visitors can watch a 15-minute film about Monarch butterflies’ migration and life cycle and see caterpillars feeding and growing on their host plants. There’s also a gift shop and gallery for shoppers. Artist Sam Trophia created Wings of Imagination – The Butterfly Gallery in 1992 after studying and raising Monarchs as a teenager in upstate New York. Conservatory hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., gallery and gift shop: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Special orders, commissions and worldwide shipping are offered. - JMD
Tom Luna @ Aqua 711 Duval St Key West AquaKeyWest.com
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Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory 1316 Duval Street Key West 305-296-2988 KeyWestButterfly.com
Best Bartender Tom L. likes to make his customers smile. Maybe that’s why the readers voted him as Best Bartender this year in Key West. “All I can say is I love where I live and I love what I do. I can honestly say that I have met the most amazing people at my bar and so many are my best friends now. I am one lucky guy,” Luna said. “Now if we can only get customers to stop asking for separate checks.” Luna has lived in Key West for almost 30 years. He’s originally from Mobile, Alabama. Luna also likes creating special drinks. Here’s
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a new one he’s sharing with SFGN readers: Yogurt Liqueur, Coconut Liqueur, Frozen Strawberry Drink Mix, Ice, blend. “Hey, try it first before you condemn it,” he said. “It’s surprisingly delicious.” He has the credentials to back up his drink making skills too; a few years back he won the Kenny Chesney Blue Chair Bay Rum drink competition. - JEP
Key west
Best Of 2018
Best Burger Garbo’s Grill 409 Caroline Street Key West 305-304-3004 GarbosgrillKW.com
Behind Grunt’s Bar you will find the best burger in Key West. Garbo’s Grill, a food truck, serves the burgers. Opened in 2009, Garbo’s Grill is the dream of owners Eli and Kenna Pancamo. It has four and half stars with more than 1,100 reviews on Yelp. The winning burger – Umamiburger – is a half of pound of angus beef topped with heirloom tomato, Applewood bacon and chipotle gouda on a brioche bun. The menu at Garbo’s Grill includes burritos, hot dogs and tacos. Hours: Lunch 11 a.m.
to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The business draws its inspiration from iconic Hollywood actress Greta Garbo. Garbo, whose many roles, included famed performances as a World War I German spy in Mata Hari (1931) and a Russian ballerina in Grand Hotel (1932). Born in Sweden, Garbo never married, had no children and died alone in Manhattan in 1990 at the age of 84. - JMD
Best Bar/Club & Best Kept Secret Aqua has won Best Bar/Club and much of that, if not all, seems owed to the popularity of its drag shows. Additionally, Sidebar, part of the Aqua Group and attached to the club has won Best Kept Secret. This is the second time in a row they have won together since the categories were included for three “Best Of” editions. Aqua holds two inside bars for watching the drag shows and occasional karaoke, the Side Bar, which features the latest dance music and videos, and an outside bar in the back for the more quiet cocktails. In other words, there is always a perfect space for just your mood. Aqua’s drag ensemble is made up of six performers, known as the Aquanettes; Beatrix, Inga, Elle, Maya, Jessica, and Aquanette host, Faith. There’s a nightly performance, usually featuring three Aquanettes at a time. Aqua describes it as “fun, raucous and a quintessential part of Key West life.” One yelp reviewer writes “Amazing night here. High quality, professional show, great costumes and music, all around fabulous time!” Sidebar in particular hosts “Fundraising Fridays,” wherein tips after 5:30 p.m. are donated to the charity of your choice.
Aqua (Bar/Club) Side Bar (Kept Secret) Aqua 711 Duval St Key West 305-294-0555 AquaKeyWest.com SideBarKeyWest.com
- NA
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Best Of 2018
Key West
Best Pizza Mr. Z’s Pizza 501 Southard St. at Duval Key West 305-296-4445 MrzsKeyWest.com
Since SFGN began including Best Key West Pizza, Mr. Z’s Pizza has won every year, three years now in a row to be specific. Mr. Z’s Pizza opened in 2002, and since then it has established locations in Key West and Sanford. But no matter which place you order, customers can say each of Mr. Z’s pizzas have the same quality - amazing. Their pizza choices include the Tomato Pie, White Pie, Roasted Veggie, Meatball, and Cheesesteak Pizza. But you have to try their signature Cholesterol Bomb Pizza - the Key West location exclusive that comes with chopped hot dog, domestic ham and, of course, bacon.
Mr. Z’s also serves Stromboli, hot sandwiches, cold sandwiches, and salads. Besides the Cholesterol Bomb, the Key West location’s menu options differ from the Sanford location with its inclusion of Sausage and Peppers with Red Gravy and five dollar Philly Jumbo Hot Dogs. The Sanford location offers 8 piece hot wings tossed in their homemade sauces. But, of course, it’s Mr. Z’s pizzas that take the cake. “As far as pizza goes... Whoa! One of the best pizzas I’ve had on the island. You must try Mr. Z’s before you leave,” one Yelp reviewer writes. - NA
Best Restaurant For owner Jason Dugan, Santiago’s Bodega was born out of a childhood quest for adventure. Since an early age he wanted to open his own restaurant. Eventually that dream became a reality with Santiago’s Bodega, a tapas style dining experience inspired by Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea, where the main character, Santiago, closely links his life’s work as a fisherman with his own core values. “This had to be one of the best tapas restaurant that I’ve been to in a long time. Everything from the service to the food was fabulous, said Yelp reviewer Jenn B. “Personally I would recommend the sparkling
sangria to start off your culinary adventure. The burrata was heavenly and had a yummy pesto with it. The charcuterie and the cheese plates had such a great variety.” While Stephen Webber added on Facebook: “The eclectic Tapas menu has something tasty for everyone. Try the stuffed dates - great last course as a dessert, the beef tenderloin, the shrimp and chorizo - these were our favorites. It very reasonably priced as well considering the high quality of the dishes.” For those that don’t live in Key West Bodega’s has two other locations – Orlando and Altamonte Springs.
Santiago’s Bodega 207 Petronia St. Key West 305-296-7691 SantiagosBodega.com
- JEP
Dotti and George with Sister Season Fund. Photo via Facebook.
Sister Season Fund SisterSeason.com
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Best Non-Profit Sister Season Fund was founded in 2005 to assist a local resident in Key West with his rent and utilities due to an illness that prevented him from working. “We have continued the mission ‘Locals helping Locals’ when someone is sick, or in an accident, through no fault of their own, and who also works in the Hospitality or Tourism industry,” said Board President Julie Hanson. “We are proud to be a 501(c)3 organization
and have been able to help hundreds of individuals and families to the tune of over $400,000.” Throughout the year they hold fundraisers and are always looking for grants. “Thank you for recognizing Sister Season Fund,” she said. “We are all volunteers.” - JEP
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Best Of 2018
Key West
Best Annual Event Key West Pride 305-294-4603 KeyWestPride.org
In a town known for legendary parties, including the world-famous Fantasy Fest, Key West Pride was chosen as “Best Annual Event.” The multi-day festival, held every June, features cocktail parties, pool parties, dance parties, variety shows, drag shows, a street far, parade, the world’s longest Pride Flag, and everything Key West offers the rest of the year. All in what Key West Pride organizers say is one of the most integrated and welcoming cities in the world. “Whether you’re looking to party with friends, travel with
family, or get lost in the magic of our tropical island . . . show us your pride, we will show you our Key West Pride.” “After visiting Key West for over 20 years this year was my very first Key West Pride it was absolutely fabulous! Something I will always remember,” said Robby Kaplarczuk on Facebook. “All of the work and everything that went into it was phenomenal. Thank you for a great time and a great week!” Next year’s event takes place June 5-9. - MDO
Best Activist Two years ago, Aaron Huntsman won Best Bartender in Key West. Last year, he brought home top honors as Best Activist and Best Non-Profit. This year, he won for again for Best Activist for the LoveisLove Foundation, where he serves as Executive Director. Huntsman first gained notoriety as one half of the first gay marriage in Monroe County. Six months, later, the United States Supreme Court gave the same right to every American. These days, Huntsman, in his
leadership role at LoveisLove, advocates for those who are discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, age, or disability. Huntsman, who co-manages the Key West nightclub Aqua, has spent much of the last year helping fellow residents and business owners in Key West recover from Hurricane Irma. To learn more about LoveisLove, visit LoveisLoveFoundation.com.
Aaron Huntsman
- DR
Best Drag Queen Maya Montana
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Maya Montana is one of the biggest stars on Duval Street. Named Miss Gay America in 1998, Miss Maya shows no signs of slowing down or losing the fierceness she puts into every show. Maya started performing at Aqua Nightclub in Key West ten years ago and remains a crowd favorite. Maya, a consummate professional, performs Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday evenings. Her phenomenal shows feature songs by Tina Turner, Joan Jett, Whitney Houston, and other pop and rock classics.
Originally from the Philippines, Maya moved to the U.S. in 1987. She discovered her love of drag a few years later and the rest is history! These days, when she is not on stage, Maya loves the great outdoors, and enjoys camping, kayaking, sunbathing, swimming, and riding her bicycle around Key West. Fun fact: Maya is an awesome wildlife photographer. You can read more about Maya Montana at AquaKeyWest.com/members/maya. - DR
Chosen by SFGN Staff
choice awards
Best Dentist (Person) Dr. Warner @ Island City Smiles 1946 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manor 954-565-7666 islandcitysmiles.com
Our staff pick for Best Dentist is Dr. Warner, a dentist who does much to support the LGBT community. Dr. Warner has been a member of the Wilton Manors community since 2001 with his partner Chris. When we asked Dr. Warner, “Why Wilton Manors?” he said, “I felt there should be more dentists in Wilton Manors that are members of our great community.” So, in 2009 he purchased a practice from a retiring dentist and founded Island City Smiles. Since then, he has invested significantly in remodeling and upgrading the practice with the latest technologies. Dr. Warner strongly believes in continuing education in the profession and attends
Best Celebrity Choice Guesthouse The Grand Resort & Spa is known for its sponsorship of television shows like “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 9 and 10, “RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars” Season 3; and YouTube series “My Naked Kitchen” and “Ravi Round the World.” But it’s the legendary celebrities who love to vacation and enjoy the South
2055 Wilton Dr Wilton Manors 754-999-0034 ethosbistro.com
the annual meetings of the American Dental Association and is a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Warner is a sustaining member of the Pride Center’s Founders Program and contributes to Poverello through their annual Bowl-a-thon. Dr. Warner is also proud to sponsor many of our participating patients in The Smart Ride and the Fort Lauderdale AIDS Walk. When Dr. Warner is not providing dental services to the community, he enjoys spoiling his two French Bulldogs, Rocky and Smoky. He is also an avid traveler and enjoys seeing the world. Call today to schedule your appointment, 954565-7666
Grand Resort & Spa
Florida sun that make The Grand Resort their guesthouse of choice. They have hosted Latrice Royale, Bob the Drag Queen, Bianca Del Rio, Laganja Estranja, and Katya – just to name a few. Watch for a yearbook profile of these and other elite queens of the U.S. arriving in an upcoming issue of SFGN Weekly.
Ethos
Best Of 2018
539 N Birch Rd Fort Lauderdale 954-630-3000 grandresort.net
Best Mediterranean Cuisine In the trendy art and design district of Wilton Manors sits a bistro that shares fundamental values, ideas, and customs with its customers. Known for being guilt free, Ethos has been serving lunch, dinner and brunch to the community for over a year by offering traditional cuisine with a
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modern taste and flair. One of my favorite lunch dishes features grilled chicken, tomatoes, onion, yogurt sauce rolled into the center of a fresh pressed pita bread and of course served with homemade rosemary potatoes. Simply put, it’s the BEST! Join Ethos in Wilton Manors, 7 days a week.
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of t s e B 8 201
Best Of 2018 AdPOP Awards
Best Local Non-Profit Campaign Island City Stage 2304 N Dixie Hwy Wilton Manors 954-519-2533 islandcitystage.org
BEARS OF F O S R F SOUTH AD FLORIDA I RO A L D F IR
Best Local LGBT Outreach Campaign SOCIAL L A I C L Broward GAT H E RS I N G SG N SE G H Center I R
Pool Parties s e i t r a P s le Education for S p e c i a l E v e ns ts t n e v E s l a t n i the Arts Dinners s r e n n i Theater e t a e h 201 r SW 5th Ave Fort Lauderdale Movies s e i v o M browardcenter.org/education Bowling g n i l w o Excursions s n o i s r us c Stonewall e P r i d ed i rBest P le a Campaign d w i r e SmalllBusiness
C H A R I TA E B L EL B A T E I L R B Pallant GIVING G N I V I Insurance
JOIN! US! SU ! N SI 1800 NE 26th St Fort Lauderdale 954-522-3800 pallantinsurance.com
BOSFL.ORG GR O G .L RF Joe Pallant. Photo by Steven Shires.
a TheBearsOfSouthFlorida d ir o lF h t a ud oiS ro fO l Fs h r t
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FAITH & PRIDE spirituality
SPIRITUAL LISTINGS Divine Mercy Chapel 2749 NE 10th Ave Wilton Manors, FL 33334 954-567-1930 - DivineMercy.church Service Time: Mass, Sunday 10:30am
spirituality
SouthFloridaGayNews.com
St. Nicholas Episcopal Church 1111 E. Sample Road, Pompano Beach (954)942-5887 - stnicholasfl.org office@stnicholasfl.org Service Times: Sundays 8:00AM & 10:30AM (9:30AM only from Memorial Day through Labor Day) United Church of Christ Fort Lauderdale 2501 NE 30th Street, Ft. Lauderdale (954)563-4271 - uccftl.org revpatrickrogers@gmail.com Service Times: Thursdays 10:30AM (Elliot Hall) & Sundays 10:30AM (Sanctuary)
Congregation Etz Chaim 2038 N. Dixie Hwy (Pride Center Building B), Wilton Manors 954-564-9232 - etzchaimflorida.org RabbiNoahKitty@etzchaimflorida.org Friday Night Shabbat Service 8pm Holy Angels Catholic Community 2917 NE 6th Avenue Wilton Manors, FL 33334 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM Christ Lutheran Church 1955 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale. 33306 (954) 564-7673 - christlutheranfl.org pastordeborah@christlutheranfl.org Worship: Sunday 10:00am
Christ Lutheran Church 1955 East Oakland Park Blvd. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33306 www.christlutheranfl.org
Sunday Service @ 10am Fellowship after Service
Fort Lauderdale / Wilton Manors Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service Thursday Ͳ Nov. 15th 7:30pm 2501 NE 30th Street, FTL UCCFTL.org Serving the LGBT & Jewish Progressive community since 1976
Congregation Etz Chaim 2038 N. Dixie Hwy Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954Ͳ564Ͳ9232
Hanukkah Party Sunday, December 9th, 5pm
It’s the eighth night of Hanukkah Ͳ Join us to light all eight candles and bring the light! Bring your own menorah and add to our flame! Bingo!! Latkes!! Dreidels!! Tickets $18 or $20 at the door www.etzchaimflorida.org
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Pizza!! Fun for all!!
ALL ARE WELCOME
A LITTLE BIT OF FAITH AND
PRIDE
SFGN is here for you, no matter who — or what — keeps you going. Read our Spirituality Section to stay in touch with your local religious LGBT community. The only requirement? Be yourself.
SEE MORE ONLINE AT SFGN.COM/TABLE/NEWS/RELIGION
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Sponsored Ad Compelling, compassionate and contemporary are perfect descriptors of Paul Winder’s A Son is Given: A Mother’s Testament. Mark and Josh are co-captains of their college swim team. Josh is open with and aware of his sexual orientation. Mark is in denial until Josh makes an innocent move which reveals his feelings for Mark. At first Mark is resistant, but finally comes to accept who he is and a beautiful love story blossoms between these two friends.
Reviewed By Robert A. Groves for Readers’ Favorite
But, what will Mark’s parents’ reaction be when they find out? The Brown family has belonged to the same fundamentalist church for a quarter of a century. Mark’s parents, Frank and Doris, are devout in their beliefs. As Winder takes us on the journey of the process Frank and Doris go through to better understand their son,
the reader is filled with hope. However, that hope is short lived. In the one place the Brown family should have been assured that love existed, they were only met with hate. That hate turned into an unbearable tragedy.
“As God gave his son for the sins of the world, I gave my son for the sins of the church!”
Shakespeare himself could not have written a more engaging tragedy than Paul Winder has accomplished with A Son is Given: A Mother’s Testament. Winder brings fundamentalist religious beliefs face to face with homosexuality. The clash one would expect from such a standoff is realized. This story is both about change as seen in the Brown family and the unwillingness to change as seen in the church. This story is about love and hate; about acceptance and judgment. While Winder weaves the plot through the pages, the reader
remains mesmerized. This is one of those rare books that, once started, will not be set aside until every word is read. A Son is Given: A Mother’s Testament is the LGBTQ themed story line that will have readers across the world applauding and saying bravo, Mr. Winder, bravo!
--Doris Brown-- mother of Mark
Literary agents welcome polywynbook@gmail.com Book available on amazon
www.polywyn.com
In this timely novel, parents must come to terms with their son’s homosexuality and confront the bias in their own church. 11.14.2018 •
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lifestyle food
Turkey Trot
Skip the cooking, try eating out on Thanksgiving
Rick Karlin
S
ure, a house filled with family and friends for Thanksgiving dinner sounds wonderful, but then there’s the prep and clean-up. If you prefer someone else do all the work, check out some of these places offering special dinners on Thanksgiving:
3030 Ocean, in the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort,
Council Oak at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel will be offering its regular menu as
is offering a three-course prix fixe Thanksgiving menu for $65 per person (excluding tax and gratuity). The first course includes your choice of roasted pumpkin soup or green salad. The second course is served family style and includes turkey breast and leg with mushroom dressing, green beans with onions, garlic mashed potatoes, cranberry-orange sauce and turkey gravy. Dessert is a pumpkin tart.
well as a prix-fixe Thanksgiving dinner for $55 per person. The three-course special menu includes: butternut squash soup with smoked chicken and apple sausage, spiced pecan; roasted turkey served with brussels sprouts, buttermilk mashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing, turkey gravy, cranberry and orange compote; and a dessert choice of apple crostada with maple ice cream or pumpkin creme brulee with roasted nuts.
Reservations are suggested, 954-765-3030 or 3030ocean.com.
For reservations call 954-327-7501 or go to SeminoleHardrockHollywood.com.
Burlock Coast, at The Ritz-Carlton,
Etaru, best known for its robatayaki
offers a few options. On Thanksgiving guests can enjoy an extravagant food buffet from carving stations and cold tapas to a seafood display, caviar station and a variety of delicious dishes to choose from. Available from noon to 8 p.m., the feast is priced at $129 per person and includes a bottomless drinks package featuring BC Brew, Rum Punch, Mimosas and Bloody Marys. Those who want to indulge from the comfort of their own home can pre-order Thanksgiving dinner to go. For $369, plus tax, the family dinner package will serve 6-8 people. Menu includes herb-rubbed whole roasted turkey with gravy and cranberry sauces; homemade traditional bread stuffing; creamy potato puree; green bean casserole; roasted sweet potatoes; buttermilk biscuits and pecan pie. Orders must be placed by Monday, Nov. 19. Call 954-302-6430 to order. One of the best things about Thanksgiving are the leftover dishes. Burlock Coast’s executive chef Paula DaSilva has created a menu, available Friday, Nov. 23 during breakfast which features items such as; pumpkin spice latte, sweet potato pancakes and turkey Eggs Benedict.
Celebrate Thanksgiving with unobstructed ocean views and authentic Mexican fare at Lona Cocina y Tequileria in the Westin Fort Lauderdale. The chef’s tasting menu offers a complete Thanksgiving dinner with a Mexican twist for $55 per person (excluding tax and gratuity) from 6 –11 p.m. Among the fusion dishes are grilled vegetable salad, chili corn bread, adobo roasted lamb tamale, turkey two ways – charred turkey thighs and chorizo stuffed turkey breast and pork pernil, chipotle mashed potatoes with oaxaca cheese and other dishes.
For reservations, call 954-302-6460 or go to BurlockCoast.com.
Call 954-245-3069 or check out LonaRestaurant.com.
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cuisine, will offer a specialty brunch on Thanksgiving Day from noon until 6 p.m. at its Hallandale and Las Olas locations. The brunch will include the classic side dish offerings and a turkey carving station. Priced at $75 per person, brunch includes a welcome cocktail, bottomless pours of Whispering Angel Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Primitivo Sasseo or for an additional $20 Louis Roederer NV champagne. Guests will also enjoy an array of hot and cold starters on the robata counter, choice of one main course and a decadent dessert presentation.
For more info, go to EtaruRestaurant.us.
III Forks Prime Steakhouse will serve a four-course prix fixe meal at its Hallandale and West Palm locations. The meal includes tomato soup, III Forks signature salad (Granny Smith apples, Wisconsin blue cheese, toasted pecans and field greens) and a choice of entrée: spice rubbed holiday turkey with gravy, fresh cranberry-orange relish, sausage sage cornbread dressing, creamed potatoes, maple-glazed yams and roasted autumn vegetables; beef tenderloin with whipped potatoes, creamed corn and roasted autumn vegetables; or maple glazed Atlantic salmon with coconut infused jasmine rice and roasted autumn vegetables. Dessert options include pumpkin or chocolate pecan pie and pecan bread pudding with vanilla ice cream. In addition, more than 25 items are available a la carte. Dinner is $49. Call Palm Beach Gardens, 561-630-3660, or Hallandale, 954-457-3920, locations for reservations.
Hungry for more?
And if those aren't enough options here are just a few more… A very Las Olas Thanksgiving awaits at these favorites along Fort Lauderdale’s “Miracle Mile” of shopping and dining. Chima adds roast turkey and the traditional sides to its Brazilian steakhouse fare. Johnny V offers not only turkey and prime rib to the menu, but also grilled mahi with cranberry chutney and lobster pan gravy. The Royal Pig turns its attention from pork to a traditional Thanksgiving feast with an Italian twist. Timpano offers a three-course feast for $35 a person. Tuscan Grill presents a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, complete with a choice of apple or pumpkin pie for $25 a person and American Social serves up a complete Thanksgiving dinner, starting with corn chowder and even sends you home with a bag of leftovers (turkey sliders, mashed potatoes, stuffing and a pumpkin cookie.) for $35 a person.
Visit SFGN.com/FOOD!
Rick Karlin is SFGN’s food editor. Visit SFGN.com/Food to read his previous reviews. Have a culinary tip to share? Email Rick at RickKarlinFL@gmail.com.
THE MAGIC BEHIND THE
STAGE GO BEHIND THE SCENES Every week, SFGN brings you an inside look on what’s hitting the stage near you. From interviews with producers to exclusive peeks at new performances, we’re here to make sure you’re ready for every show.
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LIFESTYLE photos
Trans Veterans
Share Their Stories four panelists Speak Out at Stonewall Museum Carina Mask
Carson Graham supporting Champange Bordeaux as Nicki Ruiz speaks.
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n Thursday, Nov. 8, Carson Graham of TransInclusive moderated a panel discussion for four transgender veterans about their experience in the military at the Stonewall Museum in Wilton Manors, Florida. Transgender individuals have been allowed to serve openly in the United States since 2011. According to the U.S. government, there are approximately 15,000 transgender service members currently on active duty or in the reserves and over 150,000 transgender veterans. Kristy Golba had served 31 years in the Marines with multiple deployments all around the world, including, Bahrain, Suriname, Iraq, Norway, Japan. “I joined when I was 18,” Golba said. “My family life was a bit distorted. My dad was a drunk, former marine – it was a combination of things, getting away and changing my environment. Now, but now I want to focus on myself.” After all the panelists introduce themselves, Graham asked, “What advice do you have for future transmen or transwomen that would want to enlist?” “If they are already transitioning, then they can’t,” was Nicki Ruiz’s quick reply. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis released a 44-page memorandum earlier this year which proposed a policy that was deemed as extremely discriminatory by The American Psychological Association. Mattis’ expert panel from the Pentagon has been heavily criticized for skewing data from various research studies. There are three keys points that the Pentagon’s panel claims – there is minimal success with mental health and when hormone therapy was introduced to transgender servicemen and women, they were more prone to depression and suicide. Secondly, the policy states, “Transgender persons Kristy Golba. who require or have undergone gender transition are disqualified from military service.” However, there is a bit of legal jargon following the statement, which allows the Pentagon the ability to make exceptions. Third, the policy also states that transgender persons should serve as their biological sex. “I don’t care if you are transgender, homosexual, heterosexual or what have you identify as, I would say no,” said Champagne Boudreaux. “I cannot recommend people to enlist. It’s a lot of mental work. You see how we are all up here, speaking monotone? We were trained that way, they put us in this kind of environment. Our experiences, we relive it, we go there. It is a tough road to live, [you have to] think of every aspect of your private life.” “I did five years, I went to Kuwait for 6 months, and in 2016 I went to the countries surrounding Russia,” said Nicki Ruiz. “Bulgaria, Latvia, Jordan and Kuwait, it was hot, it was so fricken hot. If you can imagine standing outside, it was about 130 degrees, and [you have] about 60 pounds of [gear] on you and you’re just raining [sweat] inside of your cap.” “I would say if you’re transitioning, I would say wait,” added Nicki Ruiz. “Unless you have already had bottom surgery, the military won’t give just one person any special treatment so you will end up sharing 5 showerheads with 30 people that were born your biological gender.” Ruiz then reiterated, “We are all one solider, we are all one sailor. There’s no room for special treatment.”
To see many more photos, visit South Florida Gay News on Facebook.
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SFGNITES
F O R T H E W E E K O F n o v e m b er 1 5 - n o v e m b er 2 0 , 2 0 1 8 • W W W . S F G N . C O M J.W. Arnold
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jw@prdconline.com
THU
11/15
theater What could happen when a gay father and son living together in Wilton Manors compete for the affections of a hot young stud? Find out in Ronnie Larsen’s latest comedy, “3 Card Stud,” playing through Dec. 2 at the Foundry at Wilton Theater Factory, 2306 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. This new play proves you’re never too old or too young to find true love. Tickets start at $35 at RonnieLarsen.com.
FRI
11/16
theater Rev up your hot rods and head down to Rydell High to see why fans are still “Hopelessly Devoted” to “Grease.” MNM Theatre Co. presents the popular ‘50s musical romp at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach through Dec. 2. Hum along to classics from the smash movie musical, including “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightning” and “You’re the One That I Want.” Tickets start at $39 at Kravis.org.
x
Tuesday 11/20
theater
Broadway legend Betty Buckley (“Cats”) stars as the effervescent matchmaker Dolly Levi in the Tony Award-winning Best Revival production of “Hello, Dolly!,” opening tonight and running through Nov. 25 at the Arsht Center in Miami. Be sure to “Put On Your Sunday Clothes” and pick up your tickets “Before the Parade Passes By.” “It Only Takes a Moment,” thanks to Ticketmaster. Tickets start at $34 at ArshtCenter.org. Photo Credit:
SAT
11/17 SUN
11/18 MON
11/19 TUE
11/20
cabaret
books
television
theater
The Maltz Jupiter Theatre, 1001 N. Indiantown Rd. in Jupiter, presents Tony and Grammy Award-winner Rachel Bay Jones in her brand new solo show tonight. The South Florida native will take audiences on an intimate and stirring journey through her Broadway career, featuring music ranging from Rodgers and Hammerstein to Andrew Lloyd Webber and Joni Mitchell. More information at JupiterTheatre.org.
Miami Book Fair International, one of the largest literary events in the nation, concludes this weekend with the popular street fair on the Wolfsonian campus of Miami-Dade College in downtown Miami. Browse thousands of new titles and meet many of the authors, beginning at 10 a.m. Admission is free on Friday and $10 on Saturday and Sunday. For more information and tickets, go to MiamiBookFair.com.
Tune in to Hulu tonight for the sixpart, award-winning dramedy “The Bisexual,” premiering Nov. 16. The series about a New Yorker who goes on a break from her girlfriend and finds herself—for the first time—dating a man in this raw, unapologetic take on bisexuality and the comic misconceptions surrounding it. Desiree Akhaven and Maxine Peake star. New episodes debut weekly. Watch at Hulu.com.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “The King and I,” opening tonight and running through Dec. 2 at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale, boasts a score that features beloved classics including “Getting to Know You,” “I Whistle a Happy Tune,” “Shall We Dance” and “Something Wonderful.” Don’t miss this production based on the Tony-winning Broadway revival. Tickets start at $35.25 at BrowardCenter.org.
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A&E theater Dominique Scott stars as a transgender rocker in “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” at Slow Burn Theatre Co. Photo Credit: Ian Ibbetson.
Reviews: Plays Focus on Opposite Ends of LGBT Spectrum
‘Buyer & Cellar’ and ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’ premiere locally J.W. Arnold
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It’s about time. It’s about us. A paper that speaks with you, to you, and about you. A paper that pulls no punches, protects our friends, defends
wo productions at local regional theaters explore the lives of people living on opposite ends of the LGBT spectrum: “Buyer & Cellar,” currently playing at Island City Stage in Wilton Manors, is a oneman tour de force that imagines what could happen when a young, out-of-work actor is hired to staff the arcade of shops located in the basement of Barbra Streisand’s Malibu complex and chronicled in her 2010 book, “My Passion for Design.” Matthew Buffalo stars as the gregarious and chatty Alex More in Jonathan Tolins’ loving tribute to all things Barbra and few references are lost on the company’s mostly middleaged, gay male audience. With breakneck speed and steady direction from artistic director Andy Rogow, Buffalo transitions between Alex; his jealous boyfriend Barry; the acerbic house manager Sharon; the current “Mr. Streisand,” actor James Brolin; and, of course, the “lady of the house” herself. Early on, Alex confesses he is not a “Barbra queen” but acknowledges that such adoration is a part of his gay DNA. This realization comes after he catches a glimpse of the dress the singer wore while performing her classic song, “People.” Buffalo is immediately likable and empathetic as Alex and he successfully walks a fine line between comedy and camp. His Barbra is never outrageous like many a drag impersonation, but still a humorous caricature that emphasizes the star’s wellknown idiosyncrasies. Most importantly, Buffalo, a New World School of the Arts acting instructor, carries the cleverly written show with skill and charm.
“Buyer & Cellar” is highly recommended— whether you’re a “Barbra Queen” or not. Where “Buyer & Cellar” is sophisticated and subtle, “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” playing at Slow Burn Theatre Co. at the Broward Center, is an in-your-face, crass look at the struggles of a transgender rocker who escaped from behind the Iron Curtain only to become oppressed (in a different way) in middle America. The musical is based on John Cameron Mitchell’s cult film with a grunge rock score by Stephen Trask and tells the story of Hedwig, who underwent a botched sex reassignment surgery in order to marry a G.I. and land a green card. “The Angry Inch,” the band’s name, is also a reference to the unfortunate consequences of that procedure. Carbonell Award-winner Dominique Scott (“Million Dollar Quartet,” Actors Playhouse) is tasked with the challenging role that earned Neil Patrick Harris a 2014 Tony and provided drag acting creds to Michael C. Hall, Darren Criss and Taye Diggs. Scott gives a strong performance that is part defiant head-banger, part stand-up comedian (look out for lots of added references to South Florida and recent politics) and part tragic heroine. In another gender-bending twist, Mallory Newbro, also a Carbonell winner (“Beehive,” The Wick), portrays Hedwig’s cross-dressing husband, Yitzhak. The show may not offer any deep insights into the current transgender experience and Trask’s rock score is certainly never going to be appreciated by all, but “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” does successfully convey the hopes and dreams of an often overlooked segment of the LGBT community.
Island City Stage presents “Buyer & Cellar” by Jonathan Tolins through Dec. 2 at the Wilton Theater Factory, 2304 N. Dixie Hwy. in Wilton Manors. Tickets are $35 at IslandCityStage.org. Slow Burn Theatre Co. presents “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” through Nov. 25 in the Abdo New River Room at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale and Nov. 29 – Dec. 2 at the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center in Aventura. Tickets for both venues at BrowardCenter.org.
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www.NormKent.com 11.14.2018 •
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