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Editorial
MEgacOn hOnORs pulsE victiMs With ‘lOvE is lOvE’ aRt auctiOn
Brittany Ferrendi
T
he Southeast’s largest comic, gaming and anime convention is stepping up to honor Pulse nightclub shooting victims with a special art auction. MegaCon Orlando is teaming up with Marc Andreyko’s “Love is Love” project to form programming May 25 and 27 at the Orange County Convention Center. There will be a cocktail reception and an art auction to benefit Equality Florida, the state’s largest LGBT civil rights organization. “The ‘Love is Love’ event began when the creator behind the book, Marc Andreyko, approached me and said he would very much like to auction off art from the book,” said event organizer Constance Katsafanas, who is a neurologist. “MegaCon being at Orlando would make it the perfect venue to bring this art live.” The convention will feature a gallery with art donated from top comic artists behind “Love is Love,” a comic anthology that brought together over 300 comic book creators to benefit victims of the worst mass-shooting in modern U.S.
history at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando. Much of the artwork on auction are the original 11x17 drawings and illustrations of the pages that appear in the Pulse comic anthology. The art mediums range from paint, prisma, pencil and more. There will also be artwork on auction from top artists who wished to contribute to the comic book, but could not due to time constraints and other factors. Illustrator Mike Perkins donated the original page of the X-Men comics in which gay superhero Northstar proposes to his boyfriend. There will also be a full-page pinup of Wonder Woman by Cartoonist Terry Moore up for auction. “This is a beautiful response to a terrible tragedy,” Katsafanas said. The event is May 26, beginning with a cocktail reception and a book signing. Over 26 comic creators will be in attendance to meet with fans, including Tom King, Gail Simone, Jason Aaron, Dan Didio and the Love is Love creator himself, Marc Andreyko.
Katsafanas described the cocktail reception meet and greet as a “really unique setting” with very limited tickets. The “relaxed, friendly” atmosphere will let patrons speak directly to artists and enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Tickets are extremely limited at $150 a piece and include an exclusive lithograph by Writer and Illustrator George Perez — known for his work on “Teen Titans” and “The Avengers” — as well as a lithograph by DC Comics Illustrator Cat Staggs. Attendees will also receive a copy of the “Love is Love” comic anthology signed by Perez. “(The auctioned items are) really exciting to have and the art is very dynamic” The live public art auction begins on May 27, with all proceeds benefiting Equality Florida. Attendees do not need to purchase a ticket for MegaCon to participate. for more information and to purchase tickets, visit megaConOrlando.com/ love-is-love-fundraising-events/.
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NEWS national
pOlls shOW natiOnal appROval FOR saMEsEX MaRRiagE at nEW highs But much ground is still left to gain
P
rotestants came in at their highest, 55 percent, and Republicans at theirs, 47, in support of same-sex marriage during Gallup’s annual Values and Benefits poll conducted May 3 – 7. The specific question, as worded by the Gallup poll pertains as to whether same-sex marriage “should be recognized by the law as valid,” compared to similar polls that ask whether a person is in favor of samesex marriage, leaving the question up for moral interpretation, versus legal. Overall 64 percent of those polled said they believed that marriage between same-sex couples should be recognized by law, a steady increase from last year’s 61 percent. The data was collected from a sample size of 1,011 people living across 50 states within the U.S. and was collected via landline or cell phone survey.
Jillian Melero
Support for Gay Marriage, by Political Party — 1996-2017
Support for Gay Marriage, by Religious Group — 2004-2017
5.17.2017 •
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Four texas Men Face Federal Hate Crime Charges for luring Gay Victims with Grindr (EDGE) A federal grand jury indicted four Texas men Wednesday with federal hate crime and conspiracy charges for using the gay hook-up app Grindr to target victims for home robbery. According to the 18-count indictment, Anthony Shelton, 19; Nigel Garrett, 21; Chancler Encalade, 20; and Cameron Ajiduah, 18, committed four home invasions from January 17 to February 7, 2017 in the Dallas suburbs of Plano, Frisco and Aubrey. In each case, the victims were targeted by the defendants who falsely posed as a gay man on Grindr looking to meet up at the victims’ homes. However in each case, according to KTXS News, when the victim answered the door, instead of one hook-up, four armed men showed up. The victims were restrained with tape and assaulted both physically and with anti-gay slurs
h
NATIONAL earing set in Wal-Mart same-sex Benefits settlement
(AP) A federal judge in Boston has scheduled a hearing in a class-action lawsuit by Wal-Mart employees who sued the retail chain for denying health benefits to their same-sex spouses. A proposed settlement of $7.5 million would pay for claims by current and former Wal-Mart associates in the U.S, and Puerto Rico that they were unable to obtain health insurance coverage for their same-sex spouses from 2011 to 2013. The lawsuit was initially filed in 2015 by Jacqueline Cote, an employee at a Massachusetts Wal-Mart. The suit said the Bentonville, Arkansas, company denied medical insurance for her wife. Wal-Mart began offering benefits for same-sex spouses in 2014. A fairness hearing is scheduled for Monday. Judges hold such hearings to determine whether the settlement should be approved as fair, reasonable and adequate.
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while the men ransacked their homes. In one instance, a car was stolen. The men were charged with 18 federal counts that include kidnapping, carjacking, conspiracy and possession of a firearm. Dallas News reports that the hate crimes carry a maximum penalty of life in prison. The case is being investigated by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as well as police departments in Plano and Frisco. Local news station CBS DFW spoke with North Texas Gay and Lesbian Alliance President Jeanne Rubin who was glad to see a grand jury recognize the seriousness of the crimes. “You can be scared as a homeowner if your neighbor is robbed, but it’s different if you feel like you’re being targeted for some reason and in this case a whole community can feel like they’re targeted,” said Rubin.
a
POLITICS
lbania Gay Rights organizations Hold annual Pride Ride
(AP) Gay rights organizations in Albania have held their annual pride event without any disturbances, while the country’s political opposition prepared for an unrelated national protest in the capital, Tirana. Scores of bikers with multi-colored balloons and flags on Saturday started their mile-long (1.6 kms) ride passing past a tent pitched by the opposition in front of Prime Minister Edi Rama’s office in downtown Tirana. Opposition Democratic Party leader Lulzim Basha had assured the gay pride participants there would be no incidents or threats during their ride, which started two hours before the other protest. A heavy police presence followed the ride. Unlike the previous year no Western diplomats were seen joining the riders. Xheni Karaj, one of the organizers, said that from nine participants in the first pride ride 2012, the event has grown to scores of people. “This is an act of protest. The time of pledges is over. Time has come Albanian politicians carry out and respect their promises,” said Karaj. Kristi Pinderi said gays have decided not to hide anymore and the pride ride was the “joy of life and love.” The half-hour ride, also supported with participants from Kosovo, Macedonia and Serbia, ended without incident. The independent People’s Advocate, Igli Totozani, joined the ride and hailed the participants “for your courage and in defense of your cause.” Gay organizations urged the government to pass draft legislation on same-sex marriage and recognition of transgender persons.
t
NATIONAL
op north Carolina lGBt advocate takes new Washington Job
(AP) A former North Carolina legislator who helped lead the fight against the state’s law limiting LGBT protections is going to Washington. Equality North Carolina announced Friday that Chris Sgro (‘SKROH) is stepping down as executive director to become communications director for the national advocacy group Human Rights Campaign. Sgro was a leading voice opposing House Bill 2, the law that governed public restroom use by transgender people and limited other LGBT protections. It was replaced this year with a law that advocacy groups say still exposes people to discrimination. Sgro was appointed last year to fill the seat of a deceased North Carolina House member, but didn’t seek a full term. Chris Sgro.
NEWS palm beach
NEWS international
canada REvEals MaRRiagE Equality pOstagE staMp Brittany Ferrendi
sOuth FlORida aids nEtWORK MOnthly REpORt Trump proposes massive cuts to funding international HIV programs Sean McShee
O
n May 1, 2017, Broward began a same-day Test-and-Treat program. Amy Newton (Broward Regional Health Planning Council) and Joshua Rodriguez (Florida Department of Health Broward) discussed it. This program should reduce the treatment initiation gap. That gap refers to the time between receiving an HIV-positive test result and beginning antiretroviral treatment (ART). People can now choose to receive 30-days of ART on the same day that they receive an HIV-positive test result. Prior to this program, people had to wait weeks before receiving ART. Community advocate, David Runkle, with just four T-cells and stage-4 cancer, had to wait twelve weeks to begin ART. A test site that also provides RWC services can offer the 30-day ART supply “in-house.” For most other test sites, the Florida Department of Health Broward Ryan White Care (FL-DOHBroward-RWC) will transport someone from their testing site to a treatment site. Dr Jeffrey Beal (FL-DOH Tallahassee) has set a goal of a 30-minute average for this treatment initiation gap. Same-day Test-andTreat programs are beginning in Broward, Jacksonville, Miami-Dade, Orlando, Palm Beach, and Tampa. Dr. Beal thought that Broward and Miami-Dade could implement Test-and-Treat
in community-based organizations. Rodriguez reported that Florida Blue had cancelled some people’s insurance, despite RWC having already paid Florida Blue. FLDOH is trying to work out this problem. RWC clients with concerns should contact their case manager. Joey Wynn, South Florida AIDS Network (SFAN) Chair, discussed federal issues. Wynn reported that the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) emerged unscathed in the proposed budget. Other programs, however, faced severe proposed cuts. He emphasized the need to act strategically, “It’s going to get rougher, and we have four hard years ahead.” Wynn expressed anger that out-of-state activists had pressured Florida representatives. He felt that they should have discussed strategy with local activists first. At SFAN, Hilary McQuie of Health GAP discussed the funding gap in global AIDS work. Health GAP works to end the 7 billion dollar gap between funding and need. About 80 percent of all people with HIV live in subSaharan Africa. Globally, about 51 percent of all people with HIV still lack access to treatment. Trump has proposed massive cuts to funding international HIV programs. These proposed cuts would prevent more people from accessing HIV treatments.
I
n celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday, the Canada Post has chosen to celebrate marriage equality. Last week the post unveiled the stamp to a local Toronto center that serves the LGBT community. The stamp depicts a maple leaf with the LGBT pride flag overlayed. Underneath the leaf is the year the Civil Marriage Act was passed, giving same-sex couples the right to marry in 2005. The words “Marriage Equality” are
under the year in English and French, with the text “CANADA 150” appearing in white on the right side of the maple leaf. The stamp is a part of Canada Post’s efforts to make 10 stamps honoring important moments in Canada’s last 150 years. The stamps will be available on June 1. Other moments commemorated by the stamps include Expo67, the 1982 Constitution Act and the creation of the Canadarm.
ANNOUNCEMENTS the florida department of health has named emilio aponteseirra paretti as the new coordinator for men who have sex with men in Broward county. health Gap will host a presentation on aIds activism in africa at the world aIds museum, 1201 ne 26th st. suite 11, on June 6, at 7:30 p.m. for more information on the Broward hIv planning council, bit.ly/1rQXrgn for more information on the Broward hIv prevention planning council, please visit bit.ly/2rj7iat/. next sfan meeting: friday, June 2, 2017 at 10 a.m., at the holy cross healthplex, 1000 ne 56th street, ft. lauderdale. sfan welcomes newcomers. 5.17.2017 •
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lgbTQia bites
l
lesbian
‘gEt Out’ pROducER tO MaKE blacK lEsbian hORROR MOviE (SFGN) Producer Jordan Blum of “Get Out” and filmmaker Dee Rees of “Bessie” and “Mudbound” are collaborating on a new project. The yet untitled films’ protagonists will be black lesbians living in the suburbs. Rees said the movie is based on her own experiences, the New York Times reports. “You’ve got me and my wife, two black lesbians, and when we first moved in, we fought every day over all these little things: ‘Why is this over there? Did you move that?’ Maybe it was a ghost. Or maybe it was some other force—like us not wanting to be there or fitting in.” “Anyway, that’s my horrormovie pitch,” Rees said. “It almost makes me nervous,” Blum said, then leaned back and looked up. “The idea of working with you.” He paused. “But anything you want to do, I’m in. I’m in, I’m in, I’m in.” Although the project is still in development, Rees told the Times she’s optimistic working with Blum to take on a film of this content and genre. “I can’t tell
Dee rees. dga.org.
you how rare it is that people mean what they say in this business,” she said. “He’s just letting me make the best possible version of what I want to make.”
b
by Jillian melero
Bisexual
alia shaWKat: hOW bEing bisEXual hElpEd ME as an actOR (SFGN) Alia Shawkat, known for her roles in “Arrested Development” and “Broad City” stars in the new thriller “Paint it Black.” In an interview with Out magazine Shawkat talked about how she’s identified with and grown in each role. (Out) You’ve also taken on more explicitly queer roles, like when you played Ilana Glazer’s look-alike lover on an episode of Broad City. What was that like? (AS) I’d been mistaken for Ilana a lot, and I’d heard from her friend that she’d been mistaken for me too. Next thing I know, I’m on a group text with the girls. Then I had a script. I’ve been recognized so much since. A guy in New York pulled up and said, “Hey, you Ilana’s lover, huh?!” how do you identify with these characters? I was a tomboy growing up, and I remember my mom asking me when I was 10, “Are you attracted to boys or girls?” I said I don’t know. Now I consider myself bisexual, and I think balancing my male and female energies has been a big part of me growing as an actor.
alia Shawkat.
how do you feel in the current climate, moving forward as a queer artist? I co-wrote and star in a new film called Duck Butter, which opens later this year. I love that it was written for a man and a woman, but we couldn’t find the right guy, so now it happens to star two women [as lovers]. I used to be less outspoken. But as a woman, an Arab-American, and a member of the LGBTQ community, I have to use whatever voice I have. There’s no more delicacy in being quiet.
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lgbTQia bites
t
continued transgender
aRgEntina’s FiRst tRansgEndER pOlicE chiEF On duty (AP) Analia Pasantino served in Argentina’s federal police as a man for 20 years, then she came out as a transgender woman and was forced to resign. She is smiling these days, though, beaming with pride to be wearing a police badge again. And the sign on her office door reads: “Chief.” Nearly a decade after psychiatric reports said Pasantino suffered from an “irreconcilable” illness that made her unfit to serve, she was welcomed back to the police force this week and appointed deputy police commissioner in the judicial communications department. “This is a milestone,” Pasantino, 49, told The Associated Press on Thursday. “I’m the first transgender police chief in Latin America. It’s an unprecedented and important step to show Latin America and the world that we are an open institution.” Argentina became a world leader in transgender rights in 2012 when it gave people the freedom to change their legal
analia Pasantino. facebook.
and physical gender identity simply because they want to, without having to undergo judicial, psychiatric and medical procedures. The government also legalized gay marriage in 2010. “The world has changed,” Pasantino said. “You can live a life of gender identity and it’s no longer necessary to live a double life.”
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NEWS state
lgbt-FRiEndly hOspitals Florida Medical scores highest, Boca Regional scores low
Florida Medical Center. Photo Credit: Facebook.
Chris Persaud
F
lorida Medical Center has earned a perfect score for LGBT-friendliness from the Human Rights Campaign. Meanwhile, Boca Raton Regional Hospital got a low score for the fourth time in a row from the HRC’s Healthcare Equality Index. HRC’s Healthcare Equality Index rates hospitals on how well they treat LGBT patients, workers and visitors. A hospital can score highly based on several criteria. For instance, its policies must explicitly state it does not discriminate against employees or patients based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It must allow a patient’s same-sex partner to visit them. It must give nurses and doctors training on how to care for LGBT patients. Its health benefits plan must cover gay and lesbian spouses and partners. Hospitals volunteer to share their policies with HRC, so not every hospital is rated by the LGBT rights group. Florida Medical, at 5000 West Oakland Boulevard in suburban Fort Lauderdale, got top marks in all these categories. It was a big jump from last year, when HRC noted it could not find information on the hospital’s policies on visitation rights, non-discrimination, or health benefits for LGBT workers’ partners. “Our CEO [Trey Abshier] decided it was something we should look at,” said Doctor Frank Vittimberga, Florida Medical’s Chief Medical Officer, “And then I took up the
charge and made sure that everything that needed to get done was taken care of.” “We needed to update patients’ rights policies,” said Vittimberga, who lives in Wilton Manors, “Patient rights policies didn’t really appreciate some of the gender identity issues -- fully stating there would be no discrimination based on sexual orientation.” Then there was staff training. “The biggest thing is the education,” Vittimberga said. That meant things like training staff to call a patient by his or her preferred pronoun and making sure health records gave patients this option. “We had to change signage for our hospitals, making sure we had all-gender restrooms available for staff and patients and visitors,” he said. Florida Medical’s employee benefits program already covered workers’ same-sex partners, but the hospital did not share that information publicly. Its insurance plan also covers employees’ sex change surgeries and hormone therapy. This year the hospital made this information public, boosting its score with HRC. For its efforts, HRC awarded the hospital with the title of Leader in LGBTQ Healthcare Equality. Of the 590 hospitals HRC surveyed, 303 earned this title. Boca Regional, located at 800 Meadows Road, was on the opposite end of the spectrum. It scored 25 out of a possible 100. While Boca Regional allows for equal visitation and
explicitly states it does not discriminate against patients based on sexual orientation, it failed to meet HRC’s other criteria. HRC found nothing in Boca Regional’s policies covering discriminating against employees based on sexual orientation. Nor did the hospital train its staff on working with LGBT patients. Nor does it have policies for checking if there is a difference between its care of straight and LGBT patients. HRC did give Boca Regional partial credit for its employee benefits program. SFGN asked HRC and Boca Regional for copies of the programs, but both declined to share. HRC only shares such information about a hospital with its permission, said spokeswoman Sarah McBride. Boca Regional has consistently earned low marks from HRC since it was first rated in 2013. “The fact that we opted to participate in the most current Index survey as well as past initiatives is indicative of our commitment to these matters and it gives us material feedback relative to our strengths and weaknesses in the Index’s categories,” spokesman Thomas Chakurda wrote in a statement. “We can assure you we are acting in a responsible manner. We will certainly learn from this year’s results and look forward to improving our scores in the future.” When pressed on how Boca Regional would update its policies for a higher score, Chakurda declined to elaborate.
Here are how other south Florida hospitals fared on HRC’s 2017 report. Miami-Dade County
University of Miami Hospital - 100 Veterans affairs Miami Healthcare system - 100 Jackson Memorial - 85
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Broward County
Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston - 100 Westside Regional Medical Center, Plantation - 40
Palm Beach County
Veterans affairs West Palm Beach Medical Center 100
5.17.2017 •
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NEWS palm beach
thE gREEK lantERn
TONy PlakaS aT ThE COmPaSS. PhOTO: faCEbOOk.
Tony Plakas celebrates 20 years as executive director of Compass
Jason Parsley After college Tony Plakas knew what his fate would be – as 1997 was as the HIV Prevention director. It was the AIDS quilt that changed the trajectory of his life a gay man he would get AIDS and die a slow, agonizing death. “I was 16 in 1988. All I knew back then about AIDS was if though. After bringing it to his college and having it set up you were gay you were going to have it,” he said. “I already inside the gymnasium he volunteered to take the overnight shift to watch over the quilt. expected to live a very short life, and “It wasn’t until I was all by myself I knew it was going to end with this that I actually started to walk around horrible disease called AIDS.” and look at the quilt,” he recalled. “And I all I knew Back then It’s a story that’s familiar with many had gotten myself so overwhelmed that coming of age gay teens in the 1980s. aBout aIds was If I ended up calling my friends at 2 in the But that’s not what fate had in store for morning. I just couldn’t be there alone Plakas. you were Gay you with those quilts.” Today he’s the Chief Executive Officer were GoInG to have It was at that moment that he decided of Compass, the LGBT community center he wanted to work at the CDC to fight of Palm Beach County. Plakas celebrates It. I already eXpected HIV. But that job did not turn out quite 20 years of employment at the non-profit to lIve a very short the way he expected. this month. “I experienced homophobia on a And while Plakas, 44, did not die from lIfe, and I knew It daily basis at the CDC,” he said. “People HIV as he worried he would – his story was GoInG to were still being demonized.” cannot be told without talking about the After a year he’d had enough, and disease. decided to pack up his bags and flee to In college, as the manager of the Florida. Wellness Center, it was Plakas’ job to “I was programed to believe HIV was talk about safe sex. Later Plakas got an eventuality,” he said. “I did not want an internship with the Red Cross. As to die in front of my parents, so I decided an intern there he brought the AIDS to move as far away from my family as I Memorial Quilt to his college campus. possibility could.” After college he went on to work for the He came up with two cities: Monterey, Centers Disease Control and Prevention California and West Palm Beach. Both - Tony Plakas as a Reference Specialist for the CDC’s areas were recipients of STOP AIDS National AIDS Clearinghouse. And Project grants from the CDC. In the end finally the job he landed at Compass in
end wIth thIs horrIBle dIsease called aIds.”
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Plakas didn’t know if he would fit in with the all rich kids in Monterey. So he chose the latter. But with no place to live, no money in the bank and no job, he had no idea what he would end up doing. And he didn’t care. He just had to get away. He applied for many jobs from West Palm Beach to Key West but as soon as he entered Compass he knew he had found his home. “The moment that I opened those doors I knew that was where was I going to work,” he said. HIV is an integral part of Compass’ own history. The center was originally founded in 1988 as the Stop AIDS Project. By 1992 SAP had become Compass. Today Compass is the largest LGBT community center in Florida and the Southeast United States in terms of budget, staff size and program diversity. When Plakas started, the center had a budget of about $300,000. Today it’s $2.3 million. THE EARLy yEARS “I was a falling star,” Plakas said of himself when he arrived in Palm Beach County in 1997. He was a young man disillusioned with the real world. But his life would change when he met Michael Brown, the owner of the neighborhood bar, H.G. Rooster’s in West Palm Beach. “It was easier to run away from my entire family than to shame them by coming out. I ran as far away as I could to Palm Beach County. I was a college hot shot with too big of an ego to tell everyone I was gay,” Plakas said at a dedication
NEWS palm beach service for Brown in 2009 after Brown was murdered by an on-again-off-again lover. “As fate would have it I landed next to Michael. I met him while I was still running…I was running…I was running…with my golden retriever by my side. He took us in like the two lost puppies that we were. And like people do with falling stars he made this wish for me and the wish was a lot better life than I had projected for myself.” Soon after the two met Brown gave Plakas a job at Rooster’s as a bartender. The job not only supplemented his $22,500 salary, but also allowed him to quickly immerse himself in the LGBT community of Palm Beach County and serve as an HIV prevention educator. Brown and Plakas would go on to be become best friends often traveling together where Plakas would help Brown set up the AIDS Memorial Quilt display around the country. At the time Brown served as the regional director of the Names Project, which oversaw the quilt. “I miss him so bad that sometimes I have to forget him because I’ve never experienced a loss like that in my life. It was just so sudden,” Plakas said in 2009. Today it’s evident the pain of that loss still stings. “We were…very close,” Plakas said, taking a moment to compose himself. “He introduced me to everybody. Compass just would not be here without him.” The center’s annual community award and Memorial Garden are both named after Brown. Today the AIDS memorial quilt is also a mainstay at the center during World AIDS Day events. For Plakas that connection to the quilt goes back to his college years when he spearheaded the project to host it at his school. His connection to it deepened by knowing Brown. Besides being a mentor and giving him a job, Brown would also introduce Plakas to his future husband, activist and attorney, Jamie Foreman, 45. Foreman still remembers the first time he laid eyes on Plakas. There was just something about the way he spoke about HIV prevention. He was persuasive. A trait that he still carries around today, Foreman said. “I walked into Rooster’s and I saw this young man speak. He was so articulate about safety and prevention…in a nonjudgmental way. There was this young guy who wasn’t afraid to get on stage,” Foreman said. “I’ll never forget it.” Talking about HIV at that time, Foreman said, was still not easy. He recalled that a prominent bar in Miami wouldn’t even allow educators to come in to discuss prevention because it was a “bummer” and would “take away the fun.” “Tony was able to talk about it in a way where people wouldn’t run out of the door,” Foreman said. That was the summer of 1997. They officially met in October and have been together ever since. They were legally married in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 2011. Back then Foreman was a volunteer at Compass, stuffing condom and lube packs while eating wings and watching TV with other young gay men at the center. “There wasn’t that much money back then,” Foreman said. “We had to rely on volunteers for everything.” ON THE VERGE OF BANkRUPTCy It hasn’t all been sunshine and rainbows for Compass with Plakas though. Twice in the last 20 years the center almost shut down. In 1999 and again in 2009. In both cases Plakas served an integral role in keeping it open.
In 1999 the board was exhausted, and the executive director position had been empty for over a year. Looking for a new one proved challenging and Plakas was just too young and too green for the job. So the board considered turning over Compass’ assets to the United Way and shutting down. Scott Badesch, the CEO of the local chapter at the time, gave the Compass board another suggestion. Plakas recalled Badesch telling the board: “‘You’ve been operating for a year without an executive director, but he’s sitting right here providing you with monthly reports, balancing the checking account, doing your annual audit and overseeing your programs. If you’re tired of being on the board, do the most important thing board members can do and replace yourself with somebody who isn’t tired.’” Today Badesch is the CEO of the Autism Society in Maryland, and still counts Plakas as a friend. “Tony is a great human being whose compassion and care for those he helps is very impressive,” Badesch said. “ His accomplishments are many, but what is most important is that he leads by example and has earned the respect and trust of so many of us and others.” When Compass outgrew their former location and decided to move to Lake Worth and take over the Mid-County Senior Center in downtown it was supposed to be smooth sailing. It turned out to be anything but. Despite a plethora of inspections the building had many problems that no one had foreseen. What was supposed to be a $600,000 renovation turned into a $1.7 million nightmare that almost bankrupted the community center. “We were in dire straits,” Plakas said. “But there was a will
for Compass to survive.” But it wouldn’t be easy. In 2009 they were in the hole about $800,000 with no sure way out. Money had to be raised and quick. Staff, including himself, skipped paychecks, some even emptied their retirement funds to keep the center afloat with no guarantees. Plakas is proud to say that all of those funds have all been paid back. “That’s a testament to his leadership. He was able to get it back on track,” said current chairman of the Compass board Michael Grattendick. “We’re in a better place then we’ve been in years. And it’s because of his leadership skills and vision.” Plakas’ biggest strength, Grattendick said, is his skill to relate. “He has the ability to tailor the message to any component of the community whether it’s the youth, volunteers, major contributors, individuals, organizations,” said Grattendick, who outside of Compass is the CFO of Aurora Diagnostics. “He has an ability to meet with any of the constituents, and tailor a message they respond to.” Julie Seaver, Center Operations Director of Compass, who started working with Compass in June of 2007 still vividly remembers those days of uncertainty. “People just weren’t contributing to the causes. There were no new donors. Other organizations had to let their entire development and fundraising teams go,” she said. The Compass board, she recalled, at the time considered doing the same thing. Plakas though, she said, refused. “He PhOTO: TONy PlakaS (lEfT) aND hiS huSbaND, JamiE fOrEmaN.
I walked into Rooster’s and I saw this young man speak. He was so articulate about safety and prevention…in a nonjudgmental way. There was this young guy who wasn’t afraid to get on stage. I’ll never forget it.” - Jamie foreman aCTiviST, aTTOrNEy, aND huSbaND Of TONy PlakaS
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NEWS palm beach
“Many of the superheroes have a story, and a reason for doing the things they do. They’re broken. They rise above the ashes. Tony really believes that about every single one of us. The stories are different, but the mission is the same.” - Julie Seaver Center Operations Director of Compass
Tony Plakas (right) and Julie seaver at the international lgbt leaders conference in 2016. Photo: Facebook.
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saved us. He stood up for us. Without development and outreach, there would be no Pride, no World AIDS Day, no Trans Day of Remembrance. We would just have been government cheese. But Tony turned that cheese into cheesecake. He said ‘I will work not work at Compass without a team with a heart.’” Seaver added, “But Tony is really the heart.”
THE WOMEN’S MOVEMENT
While HIV is the running theme throughout Plakas’ career and Compass’ history, women’s rights also plays an important part. For Lillian Tamayo, the CEO of Planned Parenthood South Florida, one moment in her relationship with Plakas stands out above the rest. A NEW BUILDING AND A NEW HOPE It was 2004 and she was in Washington D.C. with Plakas for a Women’s March. Several of the people SFGN interviewed mentioned “Here were our colleagues in the LGBTQ movement, the current building Compass is in as one of Plakas’ standing there shoulder to shoulder in coalition,” she biggest accomplishments during his time as CEO. Even recalled. “It was crystal clear proof of their willingness without the renovation problems they encountered it and heartfelt commitment. I just remember Tony’s was still a huge undertaking. commitment. Compass at the time was predominantly Jamie Foreman noted, “The market crashed. Our young men, they worked to create a space for lesbians. contractor unexpectedly passed away. But we came Tony weaved together these movements.” together and had this vision. We took custody of this Plakas’ own involvement with the Women’s building with blood, sweat and tears. We continued Movement dates back to college when he managed to grow even under that financial climate. That’s his the college Wellness Center on his college campus. greatest achievement.” For a while the women’s center was housed within his Today Compass isn’t just an LGBT center – it’s a hub center and he fought for funding. for the community. “I feel that the LGBTQ movement must always “Ten years ago we looked like a Ryan White funded remember our roots are tied closely to the reproductive HIV service organization,” Julie Seaver said. “Today rights movement,” Plakas said. “The intersection we are a hub for so many different groups and relates directly to legislating what we do with our organizations that don’t have a home.” bodies, how we plan our families and Seaver quickly ticked off a list of groups what our families look like, same-sex “I feel that that meet at the center like the League or not.” the LGBTQ of Women Voters and the National Tamayo became CEO about the same Organization for Women. time as Plakas and they’ve worked movement “We’re a focal point for community must always together over the years being local LGBT organizing and that directly comes from leaders of progressive organizations remember Tony,” she said. “All of his experiences, collaborating when possible. our roots his stories, running the wellness center in college, his experience as a community THE FUTURE are tied organizer, with programs and initiatives, closely to the that is really what we do today.” Compass has 10 years left on its reproductive current Seaver has plenty of great things to lease. But Plakas says they’ve rights say about Plakas. She swears it’s not just already outgrown the 14,000 square because he’s the boss. foot space. The previous location was movement.” “Tony has a way of being able to find 5,000 square feet. - Tony Plakas the right people on the bus, being able to Meanwhile Compass’ mission and see down the road,” she said. outreach continues to evolve. Something else that stands out for Seaver, The first 10 years of Plakas’ career at the center was “whenever the staff screws up he takes the blame. focused on HIV. The second 10 years was focused on That stuff isn’t posted on Facebook. Whenever we being an inclusive LGBT community center. His new do something right, he never takes credit for any vision for the future lies with children and seniors. of those things, always gives the kudos to the staff, Plakas said the center will have to evolve once volunteers and board. People don’t get to see that again, this time to address the growing number of side of Tony.” LGBT parents as well LGBT folks who are getting To Seaver, Plakas is a superhero, in more ways than older – providing services like daycare and aftercare one. for children, potentially even a charter school, and “I have him in my phone as the Greek Lantern,” a becoming a daytime resource for senior care. nod to his affection for comic books and his Greek “I have a lot of progressive friends who just heritage. At Compass each staffer is required to choose want their children to grow up in a progressive a superhero they most identify with. Plakas is the environment,” Plakas said. Green Lantern. Seaver is the Black Canary. Foreman, Already plans are being drawn up for a new building. who still volunteers for Compass, is The Flash. Next year Compass celebrates 30 years and they’ll be “Many of the superheroes have a story, and a reason kicking off a campaign to fund the project. for doing the things they do,” Seaver said. “They’re As for his own future at Compass he won’t say. broken. They rise above the ashes. Tony really believes “I serve at the pleasure of a board of trustees,” he that about every single one of us. The stories are said. “…so I am not going to jinx myself on that one.” different, but the mission is the same.”
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NEWS local
NEWS national
“a night On thE tOWn” at lips sEssiOns REinFORcEs MandatORy MiniMuMs in WaR On dRugs
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veryone’s favorite drag dining nightclub Lips will be presenting “A Night On The Town” at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 24 as a fundraiser for Stonewall National Museum & Archives. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go towards supporting the museum’s education programs. Chris Rudisill, the Executive Director at Stonewall National Museum & Archives, tells SFGN “A Night On The Town” is another important step in remembering what makes the LGBTQ community great. “This entertaining evening, bringing together the support of community leaders from across Wilton Manors, builds on the importance of preserving and celebrating the history of the LGBTQ community.” Rudisill said. “After 43 years, SNMA continues to build upon a passion to create a heritage for generations of LGBTQ people at a time when it’s never been more important to do so.” Rudisill also gave SFGN more details on what the educational program SNMA funds plans to do with some of the proceeds made during the event. “This year, Stonewall launches the largest educational program to date, documenting the tragedy at Pulse in Orlando in 2016 while teaching students across the state of Florida about the horrible effects of hate crimes, while honoring
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those we lost that day.” Rudisill said. “This project, along with our traveling exhibition programs, our annual national education symposium, and research opportunities, creates sustainable change for students across the country while acknowledging authentic stories of our struggles, victories and those tragedies that change the course of our history. A portion of each ticket, along with the tremendous support we’ll receive that evening will support this project and other education initiatives which help expand Stonewall’s mission to young people across the country.” Tickets for “A Night On The Town” are $50 per person, and they include a three-course dinner with soft drinks, gratuity and Lips show. There are also $75 VIP level tickets that include the same, plus premium seating and one complimentary drink. Purchase tickets at stonewall-museum.org or by calling 954-763-8565.
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ttorney General Jeff Sessions has instructed federal prosecutors to seek maximum penalties on low level offenses, per a memo issued by the Department of Justice on Friday. The new guidelines on Department Charging and Sentencing policy state: First, it is a core principle that prosecutors should charge and pursue the most serious, readily provable offense. This policy affirms our responsibility to enforce the law, is moral and just, and produces consistency. This policy fully utilizes the tools Congress has given us. By definition, the most serious offenses are those that carry the most substantial guidelines sentence, including mandatory minimum sentences… Second, prosecutors must disclose to the sentencing court all facts that impact the sentencing guidelines or mandatory minimum sentences, and should in all cases seek a reasonable sentence… The move by Sessions rolls back 2013 guidelines issued by Eric Holder that gave federal prosecutors room to avoid charges against low level drug offenders that could lead to long term mandatory minimum sentencing.
Senator Rand Paul called the order a backslide for criminal justice reform, and an oppressive tool in an op-ed for CNN: Mandatory minimum sentences have unfairly and disproportionately incarcerated a generation of minorities. Eric Holder, the attorney general under President Obama, issued guidelines to U.S. Attorneys that they should refrain from seeking long sentences for nonviolent drug offenders. I agreed with him then and still do. In fact, I’m the author of a bipartisan bill with Senator Leahy to change the law on this matter. Until we pass that bill, though, the discretion on enforcement -- and the lives of many young drug offenders -- lies with the current attorney general The attorney general’s new guidelines, a reversal of a policy that was working, will accentuate the injustice in our criminal justice system. We should be treating our nation’s drug epidemic for what it is -- a public health crisis, not an excuse to send people to prison and turn a mistake into a tragedy. And make no mistake, the lives of many drug offenders are ruined the day they receive that long sentence the attorney general wants them to have.
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image Source: 2015 report from the reason foundation, libertarian nonprofit, “the high Cost of incarceration in florida, recommendations for reform”
Criminal justice policy reformers argue that the “War on Drugs” weakens families and communities, and is a drain on taxes and tax payers. “When Sessions says, ‘war on drugs’ he means ‘war on people’ Stacey Long Simmons of the LGBTQ Task Force said in statement. “To the contrary, they devastate communities, increase the number of people who are locked away from their families; place vulnerable children and other dependents in jeopardy; and pad the pockets of investors of the private prison industry. We urge the public to contact the Justice Department and tell Sessions stop this war on people,” Simmons is Director of the Department of Advocacy and Action for the Task Force.
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news state Photo: GoFundMe.
Equality Rally Organizers Set-up GoFundMe page Michael d’Oliveira
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t doesn’t cost money for demonstrators to organize a protest. “But when you’re trying to rally everyone, it does take a little more coordination. When you take it from a grass roots level to organized, you’re going to have expenses,” said Miik Martorell, president of Pride Fort Lauderdale. Martorell is one of the organizers of the South Florida Equality Rally for Unity & Pride – Sunday, June 11 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Huizenga Plaza, 1 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. To help raise the money needed, organizers have set up a GoFundMe page –GoFundMe.com/EqualityRallyFTL. As of May 15, $650 has been pledged from five individuals in the first five days after the page was established. Information on the event is available on Twitter and Instagram under @EqualityRallyFTL or on Facebook at Equality Rally for Unity & Pride Fort Lauderdale. Martorell said the money will be used to rent the plaza from Fort Lauderdale, pay for insurance, rent portable toilets, and hire off-duty police officers to provide security and keep the crowd from spilling into the street. “You have to make sure you rent the area you’re having it at because who knows if someone else is going to be there. We’re trying to be respectful. If we don’t pay for [the police officers] then the taxpayers will.” He estimates the costs could be as high $10,000 but he doesn’t have an exact figure. Individuals are also donating items
to help offset costs. Martorell added that the message organizers are trying to send will “go a lot further” if the demonstration is respectful and well organized. In the past, protest groups that became violent or disrespectful often received more media attention for their behavior than their message. “Would you want our community to look foolish by not organizing properly?” asked Martorell. Along with money, it also takes individuals to show up and plan the event. David Jobin, CEO and president of Our Fund, said that with each community planning meeting, more and more people show up. He estimates that over 100 will show up to the next meeting – Monday, May 22 at 5:30 p.m. at Sunshine Cathedral, 1480 SW 9 Ave., Fort Lauderdale. Jobin and the other organizers hope to get someone from every group they say is impacted by the Trump administration, including Muslims, gays, lesbians, transgender individuals, teachers, and African Americans. “We’re trying to attract somebody from Black Lives Matter, the teachers union . . . all groups being marginalized by this administration, and that includes almost everyone,” Jobin said. “Whether you care about science, women’s rights, minority communities, religious minorities. That’s our plan, to have everyone represented. I’m excited to see where all of this goes. There’s no reason we can’t make a real statement that day.”
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In an age where gay men are being Chechen men to contact, but according to allegedly persecuted from the southern the manager, many are reluctant to call or Russian republic of Chechnya, one group is email out of fear for their safety. “Since the very beginning, the first people stepping up to save lives. The Russian LGBT Network is evacuating who contacted us … were terribly scared, gay men from the country after reports from they were not even sure if we [could] be Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta that over trusted [or] if we were going to kill them.” The Russian government offers no 100 gay men were detained and tortured — support “to any LGBT with several reported murders. organizations,” she The network has helped claimed. 40 gay men evacuate the “What we want from republic so far, according to them right now is for the communications manager them to have a proper in an interview with NPR. investigation on the The manager chose to remain matter,” she said. “There anonymous due to the risks to was lots of attention her job. from the international “For most of them, (it) is community; there was a lot just deadly dangerous to stay of pressure, and Russian in Russia,” the manager said, authorities were asked a noting that they evacuate men lot about what’s going on first to other Russian regions, in Chechnya and at some then out of the country. point they were unable to According to one survivor, be silent anymore, and they men are allegedly interrogated started to do something.” and tortured in Chechen - anonymous Chechen leader Ramzan prisons, and families are told manager Kadyrov, alongside his to kill their gay children. spokesperson, has denied “Some of them are being hunted by their relatives,” the manager the persecution of gays. His spokesperson added. “Because homosexuality is stated “you can’t detain and harass someone considered to be a stain on the whole family who doesn’t exist in the republic.” The manager claims the Russian and it is believed that the only way to wash government members are “monsters” for away this stain is to kill this person.” The network set up a helpline for gay their inaction.
“russIan authorItIes were asked a lot aBout what’s GoInG on In chechnya and at some poInt they were unaBle to Be sIlent anymore.”
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NEWS international
NEWS national
‘unchEchEn:’ shORt FilM RaisEs aWaREnEss On gay pERsEcutiOn in Russian REpublic
Anthony Romero, Executive Director of the ACLU. Photo Credit: ACLU.
Brittany Ferrendi
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n just three minutes, one film attempts to send a clear message. Last month, Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta reported over 100 gay men in Chechnya were detained and tortured, with at least three murdered. As a result, Director and Writer Stephen M. Hornby created the three-minute short film “Unchechen” to tell the story of Khamzat, a public servant facing persecution. “Some of the details in this case are imagined, but the mechanics of his capture, torture and eventual fate are all based on reports from the few people who have escaped,” Hornby told The Huffington Post. “The sad thing to say is that there is no exaggeration in the film.” The short film, which only has two characters, was originally on the stage in Manchester last month, commissioned by theater collective Take Back. The film is based on accounts told by men who have escaped these alleged anti-gay prisons. “We can read about their story, but it’s not the same as having them tell it. It doesn’t
engage us emotionally,” he said. “So, we wanted to bridge that gap by dramatizing one man’s story. What we hope is that it makes the story real, shocks you and makes you want to help and take some action.” One survivor told FRANCE 24 that parents of gay men are told to kill their children. The Russian LGBT Network is currently evacuating gay men living in Chechnya, according to NPR, and have reportedly saved 40 so far. Watch the film at vimeo.com/216558623.
tRUMP’s JoHnson aMEnDMEnt PRoMisE tURns oUt to BE ‘FakE nEWs,’ says aClU Michael d’Oliveira
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uring a May 4 ceremony at the White speaking your minds from your own House on the National Day of Prayer, pulpits,” said Trump at Republican National President Donald Trump signed the Convention in July of 2016. “This financial Presidential Executive Order Promoting Free threat against the faith community is over,” Speech and Religious Liberty. he said at the signing ceremony. The order directed all executive But critics argue that the federal departments and agencies “to protect the government rarely goes after religious freedom of persons and organizations to organizations or individuals for alleged engage in religious and political speech.” violations. During his campaign for president, Trump also directed the Treasury multiple religious leaders, including Jerry Falwell, Jr., endorsed and Department not to take supported his candidacy. adverse action, including tax In a statement, the American penalties, against religious Civil Liberties Union [ACLU] individuals or institutions said that Trump’s executive when they speak out on order merely follows the status moral and political matters. quo and that it doesn’t see the The executive order was need to file a lawsuit at this in response to the Johnson time. Amendment. Devised in 1954 “Today’s executive order by Lyndon Johnson when signing was an elaborate he was in the U.S. Senate, photo-op with no discernible the law prohibits religious policy outcome. After careful organizations from directly review of the order’s text we or indirectly participating have determined that the in political campaigns. The order does not meaningfully penalty for such activity is alter the ability of religious the loss of an organization’s - anthony romero institutions or individuals tax exempt status. aClu EXECuTivE DirECTOr to intervene in the political Trump framed the process,” said ACLU Executive executive order as the Director Anthony Romero. fulfillment of a promise he had made multiple times when he ran for “President Trump’s prior assertion that he wished to ‘totally destroy’ the Johnson president. “You have so much to contribute to our Amendment with this order has proven to be politics, yet our laws prevent you from a textbook case of ‘fake news.’”
“today’s eXecutIve order sIGnInG was an elaBorate photo-op wIth no dIscernIBle polIcy outcome.”
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IN MEMORIAM Submitted photo.
POVERELLO FOUNDER DIES Father Bill Collins remembered as saint, never-ending source of compassion Michael d’Oliveira
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ather Bill Collins probably won’t be officially canonized as a saint by the Vatican. Unofficially, Collins was canonized long ago by those who knew and loved him. “He was a saint, an innovator, a man of true compassion and feeling,” said longtime friend Terry DeCarlo. DeCarlo met Collins when he worked at the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of South Florida, now known as The Pride Center. “He’s a man who would sit with you, laugh with you, cry with you, sit there and hold your hand. He would sit there and counsel you if you were going through something, even if you didn’t ask. He could see it in your face and see it in your words. He was a man who just was out there and wanted to help,” DeCarlo said. Collins, 85, a Franciscan priest who founded Poverello 30 years ago, died in hospice on May 10.
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He leaves behind family, friends, and a legacy – an organization with 218 volunteers which feeds thousands of people each year, operates its own gym and revenue-generating thrift store, and provides chiropractic, acupuncture, reiki, massage services, and haircuts. Started from the back of Collins’ car, the organization moved from Pompano Beach in 1992 to the Shoppes of Wilton Manors. In 2011, the organization moved to its current location on Dixie Highway. Originally, the mission of Poverello was to help those with HIV/AIDS but its spectrum has widened over the years. Collins began ministering to people living with the virus in 1985 after he was appointed chaplain at Imperial Point Hospital. According to a 2007 Sun Sentinel article, Collins cashed in his $19,000 pension and began delivering food to those same people shortly before founding Poverello, which means “poor
little one” in Italian. “I can’t think of anything that fulfills my vocation as a Franciscan better than helping others,” Collins told the Sun Sentinel. “He did what he did out of the goodness of his heart,” DeCarlo said. “He didn’t do it for press or to say ‘come look at me.’ 90 percent of his body was heart. He just made it happen. That’s the mark of a true compassionate individual. They don’t look for the recognition and he never did. He dedicated his life. That’s a true saint in my eyes. He was an amazing, amazing man and helped so many people throughout the years. I wish my life or my tombstone would read as much as his.” Thomas Pietrogallo, Poverello’s chief operations officer, took over for Collins about a year ago because of his declining health. Pietrogallo said that Collins’ health kept him from spending a lot of time at Poverello recently. But he never really left.
“He engendered the whole philosophy that we have. We put love into those groceries [we give to people],” Pietrogallo said. Poverello’s 218 volunteers, added Pietrogallo, are there because of Collins. “That’s an important legacy of giving . . . a reflection of his work and who he recruited along the way.” Without those volunteers, Pietrogallo said 19 full time staff members would be needed to do the equivalent amount of work. “If we had to pay 19 additional people, we wouldn’t be able to make this work.” At one of their last meetings, Pietrogallo said Collins was just as humble as he has always been and deflected the credit for Poverello’s success from himself onto the volunteers and staff. “I thanked him [for starting Poverello] and he said ‘all I did was have a good idea.’ I thought that was a really humble and beautiful way of characterizing his role around here.”
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Publisher's Editorial
Convictions
Love in the Face of Death Norm Kent
The Message of Father Bill Father Bill.
norm.kent@sfgn.com
“Surrounded by death, Father Bill Collins embraces life. Confronted by anger, he preaches forgiveness. And faced with an ending inevitable from the very start, he encourages acceptance and faith and most of all, love.” - From a Sun-Sentinel article, December 11, 1994
Q
uietly, and in a hospice not unlike the many he served, a titan passed in our community this past week. For many of you, Father Bill Collins was the smiling priest who shared time with you at Sawgrass Lanes during a bowling tournament. But this was a man who spent a large part of his life holding the hand of the dying. Sometimes, we forget what AIDS was, when. Let us not today. Poverello and Father Bill opened their doors to Broward County three decades ago in Pompano Beach. Overcoming all obstacles and bucking the tides so marshalled against him, Father Bill created and forged a food bank and nutritional facility, now cemented and anchored in Wilton Manors. Poverello’s inviting website talks positively of the thousands of people they have served over the decades. Most assuredly, they have, and still do. Indeed, I hope you will all join and support them at their June 12 anniversary party. The website shares Poverello’s missions and goals simply, explaining they are “providing nutritious food with understanding, respect and love for individuals living with critical and chronic illnesses.” Poverello now has a full-time staff, generous volunteers and a mission to reach out to so many. Let’s remember that it started with one man’s vision to do so. Father Bill became the inspiration, and his words and deeds have led to a mission that
is now an institution; forever a part of our lives, But there was a time when AIDS was a death sentence, and Father Bill a lonely messenger. There was a day when HIV patients were lepers. There was a moment, in our nation’s history, when concern did not exist, care was not there, and outreach unheard of. Then there was Father Bill. Patients living with AIDS, lucky enough to leave a hospital, needed help, food, clothing, nutrition, assistance. In the 1980’s, and again in the 1990’s, Father Bill was there, often alone, so much so that it would not be unusual for him to preside over four funerals in a single day. By the year 2000, he had presided over 2000 of them. In July of 1994, the Diocese of Miami freed him from his duties as a parish priest, and he came to us. He came to Poverello, and he never left, remaining a robed warrior for justice. At the time, he told a reporter, Michael Young, that “We’re given such a magnificent opportunity, those of us at Poverello, to be able to be caring persons…and if we do that, then we can pick up the spark that filled these lives and bring the flame together and make this a better world. It’s a challenge, a simple challenge of life. If you accept, it’s wonderful. And if you don’t, how sad.” A man who suffered his first heart attack in 1962, at age 31, and went on to smoke too many packs of Benson & Hedges daily, Father Bill became a voice for the LGBT community and AIDS patients when we
Father Bill was there, often alone, so much so that it would not be unusual for him to preside over four funerals in a single day.
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had no voices, an unsung hero who would soon be recognized by many. Father Bill, a long way from his home in Canada, found that his work gained public acclaim and local recognition. The organization he gave life to under the name of ‘the poor little one’ became the little train that could. He saw illness, and sought to end it. He saw health, and tried to inspire it. Yes, he had been a priest at St. Coleman Parrish in Pompano. Yes, he had been the chaplain at Imperial Point Medical Center. But Father Bill’s life would change directions with Florida AIDS walks and bowling tournaments to fight hunger. He emerged as a local hero, honored by everyone from Toastmaster’s groups to our Pride Center. In fact, he was the 1999 recipient of the Pride Center’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Father Bill would win many more accolades in his lifetime, including the Sun Sentinel Publisher’s Award for outstanding community service, in 1995. Said Jim Smith, their vice president at the time, “Father Bill has persevered and accomplished great things. It does our souls good to be reminded that such things are possible.” Father Bill, my friends, did indeed do great things, and he was solemnly laid to rest in a moving ceremony this past Monday afternoon at Assumption Catholic Church in Lauderdale by the Sea. Mark down that day, for Father Bill was not just a part of the gay community history of South Florida. He helped make and shape it. He did so with dignity and grace, and leaves us with a treasure forever etched into the soul of our community.
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column letters to the editor
We Are Still All Human Distorting the truth is a disservice to us all
Nancy Brinker. (left) and Senator David Norris at Diversity Honors. Photo: J.R. Davis.
Fmr. Rep. Mark Foley is a Respected and Beloved Member of Our Community Dear Editor,
Next week on Get Out South Florida LGBT radio we are planning a discussion on how the LGBT community treats each other. It’s going to be called “Eating Our Own.” When I saw your recent issue with former U.S. Congressman Mark Foley and former Ambassador Nancy Brinker, who is also the founder of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Organization, I thought that our topic could not be more timely. This Congressman Foley’s voting record on LGBT issues:
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he recent Diversity Honors gala is the South Florida community’s best evidence of our beautiful humanity. On May 6, 2017, the South Florida LGBT community gathered to celebrate and acknowledge the good that our community does - both from the inside and the outside. We honored the full spectrum of our humanity from the young Isaiah Henderson, Pulse survivor, to elder Irish statesman Senator David Norris, from the gay to the straight, from the transgender to the cisgender, and yes, from the Blue to the Red. The recent focus on this last group is very disconcerting. The message of both the Harvey Milk Foundation and The Pride Center is inclusion. That some in our community would attempt to co-opt this beautiful event and turn it partisan is shameful. To go so far as to describe the decor as purposefully red is ludicrous. The tasteful decor was the selection of the amazingly supportive Seminole Hard Rock staff and their intention was to create an ambiance that was first class - and they truly succeeded. And the focus on, and disruptive characterization of, the event going “red” is so very misplaced. To minimalize and marginalize those who support us just because they may have other ideologies that we do not agree with is the antithesis of what we stand for. If we are to succeed and move society forward to a more accepting place, we need to start with accepting all - including the Republicans who have so clearly and vocally supported us. Ambassador Nancy Brinker has a very long history of solid support for the LGBT community. She has written about her support and acceptance of her openly gay son and has put her money were her mouth is. She has hosted events with the Harvey Milk
Foundation in Hungary - at the highest diplomatic levels - and Hungary is not an easy place to be gay. She has written beautiful and moving pieces in the Huffington Post and is a very active member of the Advisory Board of the Harvey Milk Foundation. In this way she emulates Harvey who worked handin-hand with Republican California Senator Milton Marks, who was a fierce conservative yet open to LGBT inclusion. Harvey set the tone when he joined with Marks and made history by showing that we can work across the aisle and make progress. That some in our community prefer to distort the truth and taint a fiercely pro-LGBT advocate’s record by misquoting her on an unrelated issue is disingenuous to the SFGN readers and is a testament to the work that still needs to be done both within and outside of our community. The Harvey Milk Foundation has never subscribed to the name and shame philosophy of some in our community. We believe in acceptance - not just of the LGBT community but acceptance of all who are like minded in the belief that we are one human family and are equally deserving of respect. The Foundation works tirelessly around the globe to move the world to a place where everyone can be their authentic selves - without shame and without fear. But most importantly with hope - as Harvey said so many years ago: Hope will never be silent. I would like to think that we, as a community, will never silence the hope that is expressed by those who, while they may differ from us, agree that we are all human.
The message of both the Harvey Milk Foundation and The Pride Center is inclusion.
• He voted NO on Constitutionally defining marriage as one man-one woman. • He voted NO on a Constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage. • He supported same-sex domestic partnership benefits. • More federal funding for healthcare. Yet, your headline says “Diversity Honors Stirs Controversy with Conservative Speakers.” It goes on to quote Stuart Milk as saying, “I prefer to think about the 99.5% of people who don’t know who Mark Foley is.” Also, you quote Lee Rubin, a former committee development chair at the Pride Center, as saying, “Nancy Brinker gave a shout out from the stage to disgraced Congressman Mark Foley who she brought as her guest.” Obviously neither Mr. Milk nor Mr. Rubin know South Florida. Congressman Foley is a respected and loved supporter in South Florida AND the LGBT community. I suppose if either one of them had an opportunity to invited former President Bill Clinton to speak they would jump at the chance – despite the fact that he had an extra-marital affair with an intern and lied under oath to a Grand Jury, which eventually led to his impeachment. Mark Foley is someone I admire, and yes, consider a friend and supporter of our community – as do many, many other people. He was an effective and reputable House member who went far beyond party affiliation. These are the double standards that our community has – it regards political ideology as being more important than fact and record. We ask to be accepted yet, we “eat our own” – until we stop this ideological divide and see people for who they are – warts and all – then our LGBT community will not advance. Sincerely,
Tom Hantzarides Producer of Get OUT! South Florida Mark Foley (left) and Nancy Brinker. Photo: J.R. Davis.
Miriam Richter Education Director & Counsel, Harvey Milk Foundation
Let your voice be heard! Submit your own letter to Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com 28
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ConviCtions
Editorial Cartoon
EditORial caRtOOn
COmmuNiTy announcement
Photo: J.r. Davis.
chamber chat
By andy Marlette
PRIDE FORT LAUDERDALE TO AWARD COMMUNITy GRANTS SFGN Staff
IT’S GAME TIME SFGN’S GAYMER EDITION CHECK IT OUT... IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO JOIN THE FUN.
SFGN.com/2017gaymerissue Photo by Chasis Photos.
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Applications are now being accepted South Florida Pride) celebrated its 40th by the board of Pride Fort Lauderdale for anniversary on Feb. 26 at a new venue, community grants up to $1,000 each. The Fort Lauderdale Beach, and attracted grants will be awarded to local non-profit nearly 40,000 people for one-day festival organizations for educational programs, that included top DJs, entertainers, trans cultural and performing arts, and social activist and television star Jazz Jennings, and civic outreach efforts vendors and special areas that instill pride in the for LGBTQ seniors, families prIde fort LGBTQ community and and more. The event was promote visibility and lauderdale the largest Pride celebration awareness of the LGBTQ in the organization’s history. 2018 wIll community to the public. Pride Fort Lauderdale 2018 To be considered, will again be celebrated on aGaIn Be applicants must be a 501(c)3 Fort Lauderdale Beach on celeBrated charitable organization or Sunday, Feb. 25, 2018. sponsored under a fiscal “Our 40th anniversary on fort agent with non-profit Pride celebration in lauderdale February was the biggest status, provide service within Broward County and ever and we’re proud to Beach on demonstrate a history and be able to share a portion commitment of outreach sunday, feB. of the proceeds with the and service to the LGBTQ organizations that do so 25, 2018. community. The deadline to much important work submit applications is May in our community year31, 2017 and awards will be announced round,” said Pride Fort Lauderdale Miik during a Pride Month event in June. Martorell. “We threw a great party, but Grant applications and more information being able to support our community can be found at PrideFortLauderdale.org. with these grants is what made Pride Fort Pride Fort Lauderdale (formerly Lauderdale 2017 a true success.”
for more information, go to Pridefortlauderdale.org or call 754-222-2234.
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Design quick fixes
Quick & Easy
Decorating Fixes Rick Karlin
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he problem with many apartments is that they’re generic. You can personalize your space easily, but if you’re renting you don’t want to spend too much money on a place that isn’t yours. Your property owner will also want you to restore the space to the same condition it was before you moved in (even if you think it’s an improvement, your property owner may not think so). Here are some easy fixes that are just as easy to remove should you decide to move on.
It’s Curtains For You Inexpensive drapery panels can hide a multitude of sins, and they don’t need to be used just to block an ugly view. If the walls are in bad shape use curtains to mask the damage. Install rod holders near the ceiling (don’t forget brackets in the idle for support on long walls). If you can’t find a curtain rod that’s long enough, buy a wooden dowel (easily available in up to 12 foot lengths.) Or create an upholstered wall by screwing a small strip of wood (a 1”x2”) along the top of the wall, near the ceiling. Do the same along the bottom, just above the floor molding. You can have the people at the lumberyard (or at Home Depot or Lowe’s) cut one to the exact length (they usually only charge a few cents for each cut). Buy inexpensive muslin or a printed fabric. Fold the cut side under and staple along the board. Cut the fabric slightly longer than the length you need to reach the bottom board. Pull taut, fold the cut side under and staple to the bottom piece of wood. When it’s time to move, just take down the 1”x2” pieces of wood, fill the holes with a little patching plaster and everything will look good as new. If you want to hang pictures, simply use wires to suspend the pictures from nails in the top board.
Fan Club Hate the ugly ceiling fan in your room? Simply remove the blades (easy to do with a screwdriver), scrub them down (you’ll be amazed at how greasy and dirty they are). Trace the blade to make a template, transfer to Contact paper, and trace the outline at least 1” larger than the fan. Peel and stick the Contact paper, wrapping the excess around to the top of the blade. Poke holes through the paper where the screws go, reattach to the fan and enjoy your one of a kind statement. You can also use window cling (see below) to dress up a blade easily.
Hate the View? We’re not talking about the TV show; we’re talking about the view out of one of your windows! Head over to Home Depot or Lowe’s and look for the window cling sheets (usually in the same aisle as window shades). These peel and stick sheets come in translucent, frosted and varieties made to look like stained glass. There are even clings designed to look like leaded glass, when you just want to add architectural interest.
Paint Most apartments are painted with boring colors. Painting is one of the cheapest ways to transform a room. Try doing an accent wall in a dark shade; you can always repaint it white before you move. If you’ve one of those apartments with a long, narrow hallway, here’s a trick to make it look larger. Paint one of the walls one shade lighter or darker than the other. Look at the paint strips and pick two adjacent colors. It’s subtle enough that it’s not noticeable, but it actually makes the hallway seem much wider.
Short on Storage Buy an inexpensive bookcase, and attach a spring-tension drapery rod to the inside of the bookcase and hang inexpensive curtains down the front of the bookcase or wooden roll-up blinds and you have instant hidden storage space. For an entire wall of storage, use the same technique, except use the brackets for closet rods attach them to the top of the bookcases and hang the curtains along the entire wall.
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Design quick fixes
Ugly Tile Floors If your bathroom has ugly tile floors, hide them with thick luxurious carpet. Carpet in the bathroom, you say? Yes. Head over to a carpet liquidator and buy a remnant the approximate size of your bathroom. Line it up at the doorway unroll it, cutting away excess and trimming around fixtures with a razor knife. If you choose a high pile carpet, it will hide any little mistakes you make; you can even put down patches. About every two weeks pull up the carpet, flip it over and let it air out overnight. Even with an expensive carpet, it won’t cost much to do a typical apartment sized bathroom, so you can replace it when necessary.
The Renter’s Tool Kit Everybody should have a tool kit to take care of little repairs. You needn’t spend a fortune, and can usually fine good kits at home improvement stores or Ikea, you can even assemble your own.
Each kit should have:
• lightweight claw hammer • rigid tape measure (at least 8 feet long) • pliers • utility knife • adjustable wrench • set of Allen wrenches • two screwdrivers, a Phillips (pointy) and flat- head • torpedo level • stud-finder • rechargeable flashlight. 5.17.2017 •
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DESigN rooms
Theme your
Brittany Ferrendi
Drag Room
Are you a drag queen with needs? You deserve your very own room to perfect your look. Be the queen of the castle with these must-have drag essentials.
BLACk CONTEMPORARy OAL CHEVAL MIRROR $120 amzn.to/2rntRpa This mirror is essential to make sure you look like perfection from head to toe. The modern oval shape won’t cut off your curves and leaves plenty of room to pose.
VANITy MIRROR WITH LIGHTS AND DIMMER $330 etsy.me/2pT0GrS Make every side your good side with this light-up vanity. With ten drawers, this is ideal for makeup-hoarding queens. The best part? The vanity comes with a 2-plug outlet, so you don’t need to travel far to use your curling iron.
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DESigN rooms
RUPAUL QUEEN QUOTES MUG $10.71 etsy.me/2rnt6wk Obsessed with RuPaul’s Drag Race? Get your daily fix of both coffee and shade with this stylish mug. Quotes like “Not today, Satan” and “Exsqueeze me?” are sure to get you through your drab Mondays.
MANNEQUIN HEAD FORMS $49.95 etsy.me/2qooHdM Don’t just put your wigs on any old wig stand — after all that hard work, they deserve to be pampered. This swan neck mannequin head is the perfect throne for your wig of any shape or length.
CATWALk RUNWAy STAGE $2,300 bit.ly/2rnjiCt When it comes to rocking the catwalk, go big or go home. Or, practice your skills at home with your very own stage. It’s completely portable, allowing you to pack up your runway to pose on the go.
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Design rooms
Theme your
Tucker Berardi
Green Room
Is tree hugging not enough? Bring your environmental advocacy home with these products that are sure to make your home eco-friendly without sacrificing style.
Lite + Cycle Feel-Good (and Smell-good) lighting Visit: LiteAndCycleShop.com
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Lite + Cycle candles aim to bring the highest quality scent to your home without leaving any waste behind. The candles use non-GMO vegetable wax and high-grade essential oils to produce a natural, captivating scent that fills the whole room. Pillar candles start at $24 and can reach as much as $78.
Chairish Making secondhand buying less tacky Visit: Chairish.com
Coyuchi “Some of the softest fabrics you can get your hands on” Visit: Coyuchi.com
Chairish is a company that scours flea markets and vintage stores to find furniture, decor and more in order to refurbish and stylize for resale. Many items are updated to look more modern and tasteful — with a price tag to match. Items on the Chairish site can get up to two or three thousand dollars. However, the site also has frequent sales — bringing premium prices down to a few hundred dollars for the nicer pieces.
Less than one percent of the world’s cotton is organically grown, making the search for truly natural textiles a headache. Look no further — Coyuchi makes all of their blankets, bedding, mattresses and more from 100 percent organic cotton, wool from family-owned Canadian sheep and other organic materials. You can get a completely organic striped wool blanket for $198 on their website.
ColorHouse paint Color without the chemicals Visit: ColorhousePaint.com Not only will the natural hues of ColorHouse paint give your space a natural look, but it will do so without the harmful chemicals, toxins, fumes and pollutants that come with a regular can of paint. ColorHouse offers rich shades of green, vibrant colors inspired by flowers and soothing browns, whites and greys sure to highlight your room’s environment. Gallon cans sell for $45.
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LED lights are a must when energy conservation is your goal — they produce a noticeably smaller electric footprint when compared to regular light bulbs that helps the environment and your electric bill. However, nothing can beat an inexistent electric footprint.
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Tuft & Needle Sleep responsible Visit: Amazon.com/Tuft-Needle Organic doesn’t have to mean compromise. Tuft & Needle offer eco friendly mattresses for reasonable prices that consistently receive top reviews on amazon. Tuft & Needle mattresses use adaptive foam that forms to every body and adjustment, and is made with environmentally responsible materials, which means your carbon footprint won’t keep you up at night. A Tuft & Needle Queen size will set you back $600 — you can also opt for a $500 full or a $750 king.
PaiD content
JESSE DURKO’S NURSERY A lush escape for botanical hearts
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isiting Jesse Durko’s Nursery is truly a unique experience as it is as much of a botanical garden as it is a nursery. The 10-acre property is laden with thousands of Flowering trees. Palms, Bamboo Heliconia, Gingers and Flowers of all kinds from around the world. Many of these can be seen gracing the edge of the lakes and trails. The Gardens and nursery feature ‘Florida friendly plants’. This means these plants can grow easily in our South Florida climate and are grown without the use of pesticides. Our motto is if we can grow it you can too.
Some favorite unique plants that can be found there are: The ‘Pink Handkerchief Tree’ Maniltoa lenticellata is a flowering tree not grown for its large beautiful flowers but for its spectacular weeping flushes of pink new leaves that appear several times through the year. Really if Claud Monet had this in his garden he wouldn’t have painted willows. While exploring the grounds here you will certainly find the Sorrowless Tree, these are a sacred tree revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. While Hindu people believe it removes sorrow from your life the Buddhist believe that Buddha was born under the tree. Anyway, hundreds of tangerine flowers can adorn the branches throughout most of the year, and really you don’t have to be a Hindu as seeing one blooming certainly would bring joy to anyone’s heart.
One special area of the property is the native flower garden which features many hard to find native species. Be watchful here as you are sure to see nearly all of the South Florida Butterflies and many of its birds enjoying the garden with you.
The nursery is open seven days: week days 8 am to 4:30 pm. And weekends from 10 am to 4:30 pm. We are located at 5151 SW 70th Ave. Davie Florida 33314. Please visit our website at www.jessedurko.com
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DESigN rooms
Theme your
Brendon Lies
Bear Room
How do you define your grizzly side? If you really want to bear your true colors, take a look at these suggestions for turning your den into a true cave of wonders.
DECORATIVE BEAR PEDESTAL $79.99 bit.ly/2qliDBq Need somewhere to set the beer down while you bear arms? This charming nightstand would be perfect next to the bedside. It features a glossy finish and relaxed expression that is ready for the show.
CLIMBING BEARS TORCHIERE FLOOR LAMP $549.91 bit.ly/2qihlsd An homage to you and your pocket bear, this classy high quality lamp features two bears clinging to a firm trunk – and will do a fine job of casting light throughout your cave as you do the same.
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Design rooms
Grizzley Bear Decorative Metal Rack $35.00 etsy.me/2pAnH7Q When it’s time to domesticate your fellow bear, make sure you have the chains ready with this handmade steel hanging rack, complete with a bear on the prowl.
THE Madison Cigar Humidor $99.00 bit.ly/2qHrwZ0 Finish every guest’s night with a bang by delighting him to a cigar straight from your collection. This humidifier comes with a hygrometer for monitoring moisture levels, and features a lock to make sure any prowlers keep their paws off until the time is right.
Quilt Three Piece Rustic Cabin Bed Set $49.99 amzn.to/2pQmogn Establish your rustic side in the bedroom with this handsome predator-and-prey bed set featuring a woodland theme and material that is both delightfully soft and, yes, easy to clean.
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DESigN rooms
Work Your Kinks Out
Design Your BDSM Playroom
Jillian Melero
Sitting, standing, lying down, or swinging from the ceiling, the well designed “Kink” room accommodates H/his H/her or T/their needs when entertaining special guests. If you desire ease of access, require absolute restraint, or need some discreet storage, this collection offers something for your pleasure. *All items listed, also available through Etsy
The Throne Whether high and mighty or down and dirty, these thrones serve a powerful demonstration of who sits on top. Variations on the “open-air” Kinging or Queening throne, include the enclosed Smotherbox. “QUEENING THRONE” $199.95 From BDSM-Gear.com • cushions in black, burgundy, red, blue, or purple • wood color in natural, cherry, mahogany, and black
“FUNCUBE” $4,200 From Funtasies, Spain, available through Etsy An exceptional upgrade to the Smotherbox the discreet “Funcube” includes mirrored paneling, LED lights, stereo sound, and remote. • upholstery, chocolate, black, or white • steel, black, or red
The Table Your table elements can range from industrial, surgical, metal to a vintage inspired wood and leather or a more altar like and somber stone. The idea is that the table sit higher than a coffee or dining room table, closer to waist height, where one can more easily manipulate their tools and toys. “ULTIMATE MOVABLE ONE PIECE DUNGEON W/ ARM RESTS AND INVERSION TABLE” $1,399.95 From LegionBDSM, Jacksonville This versatile “one-piece dungeon” can serve as a table, and as a Saint Andrew’s Cross, and can shift between horizontal and vertical positions. • available in black or red
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DESigN rooms
The Saint Andrew’s Cross The Saint Andrew’s Cross has a striking visual that makes it a classic favorite. The tall X-shaped frame features restraint points at the wrists and ankles and waist. Restrained face up is the preferred position for teasing, face down for discipline. Subjects may be secured right side up or upside down. A variation to look for is the Catherine’s Wheel, which spins. “LEGION HEAVy DUNGEON CROSS” $379.95 • padding available in black leather, black, red, white, or cream vinyl From LegionBDSM, • see listing for woodstain options Jacksonville
The Sex Swing or Sling Toy Storage Investing in some stylish storage will help keep your toys and tools in order, within easy reach, or neatly tucked away. “TB-XL ADULT TOy STORAGE TRUNk” $2,350.00 From ToyBoxxx Studio, NY, Etsy For toys to fill your trunk with, or the right outfit for the occasion, visit two of our favorite neighborhood shops, LeatherWerks on 1226 N.E. 4th Ave. and Fetish Factory on 855 E. Oakland Park Blvd., both in Fort Lauderdale.
A Sex Swing/Sling can be mounted over the back of a door, to an independent structure, or hook directly into your ceiling. Door-mounted slings are good for small spaces, renters and travellers. But because they’re mounted over the back of a closed door, are used for bracing rather than suspension and offer limited access. “SLING FRAME kIT LEATHER” $400 (frame only); $899 (frame plus leather) LeatherWerks A bondage swing takes the support of a sling and modifies it with restraints likes cuffs and harnesses
A frame mounted swing does well in an open setting. Within a private space, installing your swing directly into the ceiling or other structural support will save room. And the hook points can be used to hang a planter or other décor when the swing is stored.
Finally, If you don’t want your Kink Room *looking* like a dungeon, you may want to play with a few accents, like lighting, room color or fabrics. For the first two, check out our story “Let There Be Light.” For the fabrics, one site that might suit your tastes is SinInLinen.com. 5.17.2017 •
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DESigN rooms
Theme your
Brittany Ferrendi
Gaymer Room NINTENDO SWITCH $299.99 Nintendo.com/Switch/Buy-Now
DANBy COMPACT kEGERATOR $599.99 bit.ly/2rkZGPf
Any geek’s home isn’t complete without a game cave to sit back and relax in on your day off. To complete your perfectly designed gaming sanctuary, these five items are must-haves.
Nintendo’s latest gaming console is the Nintendo Switch, a gayming essential for adults whether you prefer solo play or a game night with a group of friends. Pop in “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” or “1-2-Switch” for hours of entertainment.
kEITH WIRELESS VIDEO GAMING CHAIR $204.99 bit.ly/2rkTfLb
No gayming cave is ever complete without a refrigerator, but if you’re truly daring, go all out with a kegerator. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a fridge designed to hold a keg of your favorite cold beer. ROLy POLy ROCkING WHISkEy GLASSES
Treat yourself to a deluxe experience with a completely wireless gaming chair with built-in speakers. It’s easily connected to a home theatre system or a gaming console, complete with a side control panel to adjust volume, connect to a headset and more.
$29.95 bit.ly/2pF2JVl
Let’s be real: Things tend to get a little rambunctious when adrenaline levels soar. Don’t risk knocking over your drink — try a spill-proof whiskey glass instead. The glass’s design lets it roll in a circular motion instead of ever tipping over.
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LG SUPER UHD 4k HDR SMART LED TV $1,199.99 bit.ly/2rkVcas A game cave without a 4K television is like a drag queen without her makeup. Experience your games the way they were meant to be played with a HD LG television. And since it’s a smart television, you can enjoy a wave of extra features.
PEACE PIPE Over 1,000 SQ FT. GLASSROOM!
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DESigN kitchen
Kitchen Magicians
Every tool you need to be a master chef
Rick Karlin Box Grater
Cutting Board
Colander
Immersion
Measuring Cup
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he kitchen is not unlike the bedroom, you can’t get good results unless you’ve got the proper equipment. And while Mother Nature and genetics are responsible for the equipment you need in the bedroom, what’s necessary to make you into a kitchen magician is easily attainable at any home goods store. Below is a baker’s dozen of essential tools that every chef needs, followed by a few gadgets that will make your life easier (hey, maybe it isn’t that different than the bedroom after all!) • A chef’s knife is the most essential tool for a cook. It’s ideal for chopping produce and herbs, as well as slicing and dicing meat. The back-side of the knife can be used to pound out cutlets, while the side can be used to smash garlic. A paring knife is helpful for smaller jobs such as deboning a chicken or carving fruit. Although not essential for beginning cooks, a serrated bread knife is also useful for slicing delicate items, such as angel food cake. Spend the money for quality knives where the metal of the knife continues up through the wooden handle. It is essential to keep your knives sharp. Always hand wash and dry all knives and either buy a honing steel and learn to use it, or take your knives to be professionally sharpened on a regular basis. • a large, heavy-duty cutting board, with a reservoir to collect liquid, is wonderful for prep work and cutting roasts. i sanitize mine after each use with a bleach wipe, and then wipe it again with a damp paper towel. i also buy inexpensive plastic cutting boards and dispose of them after a few uses. The knife marks in plastic boards are breeding grounds for bacteria. rinse in boiling water between uses. • kitchen shears are not only great when you need to mince herbs or chop canned tomatoes; they’re also great for trimming fat from meat and skin from poultry. you can also use the shears to slice pizza like a champ, just coat the blades with a little oil and you’ll make perfect slices in seconds.
Kitchen Aid
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get a clear measuring cup with (2 cup capacity with smaller divisions marked on the side) for liquids and nesting measuring cups (usually ¼ to 1 cup) for dry ingredients. Similarly get a set of nested measuring spoons (usually 1 tablespoon down to ¼ teaspoon).
• a stainless-steel box grater offers a variety of shredding sizes for anything from cheese, to carrots, to chocolate. if you want to get fancy you can also get a micro-plane for fine grating and a stainless steel mandoline for making quick work of slicing tomatoes or making french fries.
Knives
Plastic Boards
• a large metal colander is essential for draining pasta or vegetables and works well for rinsing salad greens and shellfish, draining pasta and salad greens, separating fruit juice or pulp from seeds and can be used to strain soups and sauces.
Processor Blender
• an instant-read thermometer to check meat, and poultry to be sure they’re cooked to the correct temperature. In addition to the tools above, all kitchens should have the following utensils; ladle, vegetable peeler, metal spatula, rubber or Silicone spatula, a sturdy slotted spoon with a stainless-steel handle, pasta spoon, small, medium and large whisks (metal or nylon), and stainless-steel locking tongs with rubber tips. If you like to bake cookies, invest in a pair of Silpat baking pan liners. No need to grease cookie sheets or line them with parchment paper. The sheets rinse off easily, are dishwasher safe and roll up for easy storage. If you like to make soups and sauces, invest in an immersion blender. A KitchenAid stand mixer is a workhorse. The standard model comes with a variety of attachments from whisks and paddle mixers to a hook for kneading bread. Attachments include meat grinders and sausage-making implements. A food processor and/or mixer are useful for chopping, grinding and pureeing. A number of companies offer one base with blender and food processor attachments. Any of the above would be welcome gifts to foodies, or to newlyweds setting up a new kitchen.
Kitchen Shears
Slip Mat
Thermometer
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Design neighborhoods
Fabulous?
Or Basic?
James Oaksun
I
f you are a loyal reader of this publication, I can pretty much guarantee, given the option, you would rather people describe you as “fabulous” instead of “basic.”
That’s only natural; I’m the same way. So why wouldn’t you want your home to match (or even possibly exceed) your own level of fabulousness? I took a look at single family home sales in the last year, within two miles of Stately SFGN Headquarters in Wilton Manors. Twenty-eight percent of the sales had final prices of $500,000 or higher. And six percent of the transactions hit or exceeded the $1 million mark. Certainly many of these residences were fabulous, in their own way. In this column, I am going to point out some locations in South Florida where you can find something a little different, not of the “basic” 1955-70 generic one level variety. Areas, perhaps a little off the beaten track of the Gayborhood, where you (and perhaps more importantly, your friends) will say the “F” word (fabulous, people, come on) when they see your home and those nearby. Yes some of them are a little pricey. But hey, as I said above, people obviously are willing to spend a lot to live in or near
WilMa, only to end up with something that looks no different from what you would find in the Vast Undiscovered Territory (which I define as everything west of 95 or north of Jupiter). And many of them can be bought for less than you think. Having lived most of my life (so far) in New England, I am accustomed to seeing (and living in) homes from the 19th or even 18th Century. There was, indeed, life here in South Florida – not just in MiamiDade, but in Palm Beach and even Broward counties – before the Baby Boom. Many of these older homes, built prior to 1940, are architecturally stunning. So, put on your art and architecture appreciation hats, and let’s go on a drive. You are going to find most of these homes in Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties. While there are some here in Broward, the history of South Florida really started in the 1920s in Miami and Palm Beach. Broward was not developed in earnest until later. But we will begin with Broward and extend outward.
1. Downtown Hollywood. The only significant historic district in Broward is the stretch of Hollywood Boulevard between Young Circle and (roughly) Dixie Highway. And within walking distance of that district are some staggeringly beautiful prewar homes. They don’t come onto the market often, but generally can be bought in the $300-500k range when they do.
2. Southwest corner of Fort Lauderdale. Yes there are some beautiful prewar homes in Victoria Park, Colee Hammock and Rio Vista. But the preponderance of prewar homes in Broward’s principal city lay west and south of there – in the Sailboat Bend, Tarpon River and Riverside Park neighborhoods. In the time I have lived in Fort Lauderdale I have seen increased interest here. Come take a look sometime and expect to spend $250-400k for a small prewar home with a high FI (Fabulousness Index). Next let’s venture into Miami-Dade. Here we find two entire neighborhoods on the National Register of Historic Places. One requires a large chunk of change, but the other is a bit more reasonable price-wise. And as I said, why spend big money on ho-hum?
3. Bayside/Morningside Park area of Miami. Look east of Biscayne between roughly 50th and 60th Streets for some of the most amazing homes you will find in South Florida. These homes are usually larger and more elegant than those of the same vintage in Broward. But for those who like the energy, culture and nightlife of Miami, and can afford a premium price, I believe it to be an outstanding option. The homes are generally in excess of 2,000 square feet, and while you can on occasion get one for under $800k, you’re going to need $1 million or more to buy here. Downtown Hollywood. Photo: HollywoodFL.org.
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4. Normandy Isle. The other National Register neighborhood is on the east side of the bay, on a lovely island off the west coast of the Beach as you go out 71st Street toward North Bay Village. Prices here are lower than on the mainland, though the homes are typically smaller (in the 1500-2000 square foot area). Expect price tags in the 400s and 500s, but again, the fabulousness is free. Now let’s head north into Palm Beach County for some grand examples.
5. Delray Beach downtown. I’m a little biased, I love Delray and consider Atlantic Avenue a superior alternative to Las Olas. Your price of entry here is going to be at least $300k for a smaller home, going into the higher six figures for larger and more elegant. But you will be in an easy walking distance to restaurants and fun, and you (and your friends) will say “wow.”
6. Certain parts of Lake Worth. There are a couple residential neighborhoods here in the National Register. You’re a stone’s throw from West Palm and Palm Beach, and you would not only have a cool house but would be part of the renaissance of this community. Focus on College Hill (between Dixie and Federal and north of 19th Street) and the area east of Federal toward the Lake. Inventory is generally strong. You will find many opportunities between $200 and $400k. There are also a plethora of smaller prewar homes in other areas of Lake Worth that could make excellent investment or rental opportunities.
7. Palm Beach. I can hear you – Are you kidding me, James? No, I’m not, and yes I realize I’m not talking to that many of you. But if you have the means to spend in the $1 million area for a home, which would you rather tell people including your know-it-all friends from Boston and DC: that you live in Pompano (now I like Pompano, and no offense, But) or that you live in Palm Beach? Just north of the Breakers there are a couple streets of smaller (you might call them large bungalow) homes that on occasion hit the market in the $1 million area. Think about it.
8. And finally, any of the several historic residential districts in West Palm (for example, Northwood, Grandview Heights and Flamingo Park).
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Don’t scoff until you check the events schedule at the Kravis Center, or enjoy City Place for a while. Parts of West Palm are architecturally amazing, and at prices you might find surprising. A goodly number of these homes are generally available in the $300-500k range. Expect premium prices (more than $1 million) for El Cid. Maybe you can trade up to there. The question then becomes: what do you do with the place once you buy it? Especially at the lower parts of the price ranges, you are going to need to do some updating. You can not only have a fabulous home from the street view all the way in, but you can preserve a wonderful part of Florida’s history and do the right thing environmentally by making the workings and landscape smarter and more efficient. That’s a three-fer that will make the home maximally attractive to the next owner.
James Oaksun, Broward’s Real Estate Geek(SM), is BrokerOwner of New Realty Concepts in Oakland Park. In addition to having degrees from Dartmouth and Cornell, he is a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI).
2151 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 (954)560-3684 www.facebook.com/ArtFrenzie 5.17.2017 •
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Design quick fixes
Let There Be Light! The easiest way to redecorate Brendon Lies
T
hanks to Gilbert Baker, you’d be hard pressed to find a gay man or woman who doesn’t love a little color.
If you’re thinking of bringing it into your house, there’s a way to do it so it doesn’t involve layers of tedious paint or expensive furnishing. Of course, those are certainly options too. But whether you’re tearing out walls or just throwing a new lamp in the corner, lighting is undeniably the number one way to cast new ambience in your home. Here are three ways to get the most out of your lighting.
1. Pick a color I’m not just talking about red, green, or blue. Even with “normal” lighting, you have a choice between warm light and cool light. Warm lighting, which more closely mimics evening light, is perfect for a room with more yellow, red or brown. Cool lighting – the crisp bluish light of high noon – is best with teals, soft blue, purple, or gray rooms. If you have a green room, consider the choice yours. No matter which one you choose, the difference is in what pigments are drawn out. In order for a room to glow with its full potential, you should pick lighting that will draw out its strengths. It’s a good idea to have at least one “pure” light in your room. But once you have that, don’t be afraid to experiment with some real colors. If your walls are red with yellow accents, try throwing red and yellow light bulbs into that lamp in the corner. If your bedroom is themed like a forest, consider hanging a green string of lights around the nightstand. If you’re not feeling restrained to a particular color scheme, check out the iLuv Rainbow7 (Amazon, $29.54), a Bluetooth LED multi-colored light bulb that can be changed to any color with just your cell phone – and get ready to taste the rainbow. Even if your walls weren’t painted before, they will be once the lights come on.
2. Postion and placement Cool vs. warm light.
Where a light is at makes all the difference. If part of your room is fairly busy, small bursts of light might help break up the clutter. Think about adding a nest of LED lights behind your porcelain collection, or create a gap on your bookshelf for a color-changing orb. How about if a wall feels fairly empty? A wall light fixture – especially one that casts light up or down the wall instead of outward – will paint the wall with new life, giving your room a handsome main attraction (besides yourself, of course). This would be the perfect opportunity to try out some theme-matching colored lights. If your heart is set on an elegant hanging lamp or chandelier, pay careful attention to the layout of the room itself. A busy room could make it feel choked; hanging lamps are bright, and require plenty of breathing room in order for guests to admire their full grandeur.
3. Accent lighting It doesn’t all have to steal the show. Say you’re already happy with the way light casts, and it seems to balance well with the other décor in your home. Instead, opt for a lighting fixture that gives a subtle burst or twinkle to your existing flourishes. There are fairy lights for every theme imaginable – you can line your ceiling with orange and gold mini lanterns, nautical sea creatures, or just stick to tiny led lights that will cast a starry spectrum amongst your previous décor. Not only can fairy lights become their own soft light source, but you can choose a level of warmth or coolness that will further accent the lights already in the room. How about a few candles, or a wax burner? Both come in every style under the sun! Next time you look around your room, keep your eyes out for dark corners that your eyes normally avoid. That’s the perfect spot for a new lamp, or even a clock with backlights. LED light strips stuck beneath ledges, under bed frames or counter edges are an easy way to transform a room into an exhibit. When it comes to décor, it’s not just about lamps, painting walls or matching curtains. If you have a beautiful burgundy and pink room lit by nothing but stark white light, you’re missing out on an opportunity to play with those shades and colors. Transform your home in an instant with nothing more than a little internet browsing. All you need is a little light.
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WMG Volume 4 • Issue 9 May 17, 2017
Wilton Manors Gazette
Community
Warm Atmosphere and Warm Coffees and Teas Make Up Novel Tea By Michael d’Oliveira As soon as Joelle Lee Silcox leaves Novel Tea, she’s already planning her next visit and the next thing she wants to order from the menu. “In the midst of busy and bustling Fort Lauderdale, Novel Tea stands out as a place to gather your thoughts, grab a quick delicious bite, and receive the best service in South Florida! Not only will you have a difficult time deciding which delectable to try, but once you taste the first bite of whatever you have painstakingly chosen, you will transcend into sheer bliss,” she wrote on Novel Tea’s Facebook page. Opened in August of 2015 by Ray Delgado and Todd Bowe, Novel Tea, 2043 Wilton Drive, feels much like a traditional independent coffee shop. There are sacks of coffee beans on the floor, comfortable couches and seats, local art on the walls, and plenty of books on shelves and stacked on the floor, which can be read or borrowed. Some of the books are even used to prop up one of the couches, in lieu of its lost leg – those are probably the only books customers can’t borrow. “It’s a very odd couch,” said Bowe with a laugh. The leg came off one day when the couch was being moved for a special event. “We got a couple books [under it] and called it a day,” said Delgado. Novel Tea serves craft beer, wine, – “if you need to get your drink on,” said Bowe – and coffee, including a special Cuban-style café con leche made by “true Cuban” Delgado. But, unlike a coffee house, tea is what Delgado and
Bowe specialize in. The married partners, who live in FAT Village in Fort Lauderdale, serve 40 different kinds of loose leaf teas – greens, blacks, reds, herbal, boba tea, and bubble tea. On Yelp’s “Best Bubble Tea in Fort Lauderdale” review, Novel Tea was the only business to get a full five stars. It also got five stars for “Best Tea in Fort Lauderdale” and “Best Boba Tea in Fort Lauderdale.” If “reds” makes the tea sound a little like varietals of wine, Delgado said there’s a whole culture of tea lovers who take their passion just as seriously as wine lovers do. The origin of the tea leaves includes Brazil, Kenya, and Costa Rica. “Our organic tea is certified in New York.” The coffee beans come from Argyle Coffee Roasters in Flagler Village. “You’re always getting the freshest roast,” Delgado said. To avoid the impurities of city water, Novel Tea uses bottled water in the brewing process. “Even the ice is filtered. We try to keep it as pure as we can,” Bowe said. “We try to get as much organic as we can. Our organic teas are certified in New York,” he added. Customers looking for a bite to go with their tea or coffee, can order breads, cookies, muffins, tarts, empanadas, quiches, scones, a hummus pizza, and other menu items – all made by a pastry chef. “Items you won’t find [served] by our neighbors,” Bowe said. He added that Novel Tea won’t sell the same items as the other businesses in the same shopping
as a nod to theIr prevIous plans, the works of local artIsts are featured on the walls.
Ray Delgado and Todd Bowe, owners of Novel Tea. Submitted photo.
center because there’s a sense of cooperation and goodwill that he and Delgado want to foster and be a part of. They also want to be a part of the charitable giving many Wilton Manors business owners take part in. The two say charitable events are held regularly at their business. Last month, they partnered with Hunters Nightclub to raise $720 each for Wilton Manors Elementary School. Novel Tea raises the money through a tip jug they put on the counter. “We call this our growler,” said Delgado as he grabs one of the jugs. They’ve also donated to SunServe, Kids In Distress, Women In Distress, Everglades Angels, a dog rescue organization, and others. Novel Tea is also host to regular special events, including local musicians performing. Delgado and Bowe were inspired to start Novel Tea to spend more time together and to work closer to home. “We said ‘do we really want to be in our 80s and regret not
doing this?’” Bowe said. Originally, opening in FAT Village was the plan but no space that was appropriate opened-up. Inspired by their shared love of photography, Bowe and Delgado also wanted to create a photography studio/tea shop, but decided it was better to focus on the tea. As a nod to their previous plans, the works of local artists are featured on the walls. It’s also part of the feeling of home the two wanted to create for customers. “You get the same service here as if you were in our home,” Delgado said. So, don’t be afraid to put your feet up and get comfortable. “This is a place of love and karma. There are no TVs. This is a little respite from all that,” Bowe said. WMG
Novel Tea is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. For hours of operation, visit Novel Tea on Facebook or on Instagram at @novelteafl.
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Opinion
Community Spirit 2017 WMG By Sal Torre
MAY 17, 2017 • VOLUME 4 • ISSUE 9 2520 N. DIXIE HIGHWAY • WILTON MANORS, FL 33305 PHONE: 954-530-4970 FAX: 954-530-7943
PUBLISHER • NORM KENT NORM.KENT@SFGN.COM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER • PIER ANGELO GUIDUGLI ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER / EXECUTIVE EDITOR • JASON PARSLEY JASON.PARSLEY@SFGN.COM ASSOCIATE EDITOR • JILLIAN MELERO JILLIANMELERO@GMAIL.COM
Editorial
ART DIRECTOR • BRENDON LIES ARTWORK@SFGN.COM DESIGNER • CHARLES PRATT DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR • BRITTANY FERRENDI WEBMASTER@SFGN.COM NEWS EDITOR • MICHAEL D’OLIVEIRA
Correspondents
NATALYA JONES • JOHN MCDONALD • JAMES OAKSUN
Today ends a tumultuous week for me here in Wilton Manors. However, as I sit down to write this article, my faith in our community and our wonderful city remains resilient, confident and stronger than ever. After spending the week dealing with some negative fallout from Tuesday’s City Commission meeting and a busy work schedule, I grudgingly headed over to Snook Creek Boat Ramp on Powerline Road for our neighborhood association’s periodic clean-up of the park. Due to my foul mood and anticipation of the low turnout of our previous clean-up, I was just going through the motions of getting the whole thing over with so to get on with my one day off. As I neared the park, I noticed a few neighbors walking across Powerline and heading toward the park. When I pulled into Snook Creek Park, I was shocked by the number of vehicles already in the lot. On this Saturday in May, the Westside Association had more people than ever show up for our community park clean-up. Neighbors coming out to help improve the community in which we all live--it doesn’t get any better than that! Thank you all! After this wonderful morning, I went to the City’s Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon, honoring the many volunteers who serve on city boards, committees, and various volunteer groups. The city also recognizes the winners of the Community Spirit Awards which honors outstanding community efforts of both our residents and business owners. This year’s awards went to Mary and Ron Ulm and to Anthony LoGrande. Residents Mary and Ron Ulm were nominated together as a couple for all the wonderful work they do on behalf of the Wilton Manors Historical Society, Ron’s many hours of hard work on the restoration of the Carriage House at Richardson Park, their community service as CERT members, active members of their neighborhood association, along with past and present service on various city boards and committees. Anthony LoGrande, owner of the Zig Zag Building on Wilton Drive, is a tireless advocate for our city in the local business community. His commitment to creating a thriving Arts & Entertainment District along Wilton Drive has made our
community and our city a better place and will continue to make our city even greater. As I close out this day on a high note, there is one thing I simply cannot understand. I will probably offend someone on our city staff, but I cannot help myself. At the Volunteer Luncheon, the thank-you item was a mason jar bearing our city logo. I’m not sure about you, but this city boy equates mason jars with those who drink moonshine, pickle vegetables, or use them as some type of desk accessory. Now, there’s nothing wrong with any of that, but how did a mason jar wind up being our city’s promotional item? I might be convinced, if we volunteers were able to get them filled at various drinking establishments along Wilton Drive. Unfortunately, when I tried at Matty’s across from City Hall after I left the luncheon, the bartender thought I was a bit daft. So, I headed home with empty mason jar in hand, wondering why? Did our Mayor get a great deal on these jars during a recent visit to the mountains of Georgia? Did someone order cases, thinking to sell them at last year’s Stonewall event? For Pete’s sake, they’re not even the ones with a handle! Perhaps if they were filled with something that was made locally, like the sour orange and serrano chili jam I recently made from items grown in my garden, but alas they were just empty mason jars with a logo. Some might use them for cocktails, but I think mother’s glassware is far more suitable for my Bombay gin. If the city was being frugal, other promotional items in the same price point would have been much more useful, like a frizzy finger duster bearing the city logo to dust off computer keys and much more. Perhaps an Island City clip to keep your open bag of chips fresh? If you wanted to make a real statement, stainless steel drink bottles emblazed with the Island City logo would be a huge success, but would probably be blamed for the rise in the milage rate next year; so better stick with the mason jars. Volunteers do what they do, not for recognition or mason jars or flashy gifts, but to help make our community a better place, and that’s why life in Wilton Manors is just better here… WMG
now, there’s nothInG wronG wIth any of that, But how dId a mason Jar wInd up BeInG our cIty’s promotIonal Item?
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Sales & Marketing
DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING • MIKE TROTTIER MIKE.TROTTIER@SFGN.COM SALES MANAGER • JUSTIN WYSE JUSTIN.WYSE@SFGN.COM SENIOR SALES ASSOCIATE • KEVIN HOPPER KEVIN.HOPPER@SFGN.COM ADVERTISING SALES ASSOCIATE • EDWIN NEIMANN EDWIN.NEIMANN@SFGN.COM ADVERTISING SALES ASSOCIATE • BRETT COPPOL BRETT.COPPOL@SFGN.COM SALES ASSISTANT • TIM HIGGINS TIM.HIGGINS@SFGN.COM ACCOUNTING SERVICES BY CG BOOKKEEPING NATIONAL ADVERTISING RIVENDELL MEDIA 212-242-6863 SALES@RIVENDELLMEDIA.COM South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. MEMBER
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Community Front, left to right: Chief O’Connell, Officer Feliciano, Officer Rubin, and former Officer Dickinson. In back: Wilton Manors Commissioners. Photo: Wilton Manors Police Department, Facebook.
Wilton Manors Officer Fired Under criminal investigation, agency says By Linda Trischitta, Sun Sentinel Wilton Manors police fired an officer after seven months on the job and the department said it is investigating him for possible criminal activity. Douglas John Dickinson, 28, joined the department on Sept. 23, and earned $52,042. He was dismissed April 27. “Mr. Dickinson has been terminated while a probationary employee for not meeting department standards,” Wilton Manors Police Chief Paul O’Connell said. “After his termination, our department opened a criminal investigation in which Mr. Dickinson is the subject.” Citing the criminal investigation, O’Connell said he could not comment further. Dickinson previously worked for Camden County Police in New Jersey. In October, a month into working his new job in South Florida, he pleaded guilty to a charge of
simple assault, according to the Camden County prosecutors’ office. When asked about his departure from Wilton Manors police, its investigation and his approximately two-year employment with Camden County police, Dickinson said by phone Monday, “I have no comment on any of that.” He declined to identify an attorney who may be representing him in either situation. A federal court lawsuit accuses Dickinson of violating the civil rights of Quinzelle Bethea, a man he arrested in Camden County in 2015 on suspicion of resisting arrest, obstructing justice and assault on a police officer. Bethea spent three weeks in a Camden County jail because he couldn’t pay $15,000 bail. Bethea’s complaint alleges that surveillance video of the arrest showed Dickinson had assaulted Bethea, who
Business
Last Straight Bar Standing Oldest bar in Wilton, Red’s Bar & Package, opened in 1949 By Michael d’Oliveira Before Wilton Manors’ large influx of gay and lesbian residents, there were no gay or straight bars – only bars. But as more and more bars started opening to cater to LGBT clientele, the city’s other watering holes became de facto straight bars. One by one, they closed or moved. Now, there’s only one left – Red’s Bar & Package at Five Points on Dixie Highway. But while Red’s and the city’s gay bars cater to different clientele, all are welcoming, regardless of who wants to order a drink. Owner King Wilkinson only has two rules: pay your tab and behave yourself. “That’s all that matters,” said Wilkinson, who was mayor here in the 1990s and can often be found at Red’s wearing his white Stetson. “Everyone’s treated equally here.” Betty Taylor said she and her wife regularly pull up barstools at Red’s and Taylor has been coming for 12 years.
“Everyone’s welcome. Even lesbians. We have a lot of gays that come here,” said Taylor, who added that she feels more at home at Red’s than at the city’s gay and lesbian bars. “These people are my family. Everybody just loves everybody here. No one’s ever been a stranger.” Manager Velia Velazquez said Red’s is a “redneck and family bar.” You can hear it in the string of country and class rock songs that get played regularly. But the jukebox also has plenty of new hits for those with updated tastes. “We get a little bit of everything here,” said manager Velia Velazquez. “The employees and the customers are like a family. They’re actual friends.” Velazquez and bartender Diane Avery have been with Wilkinson since the beginning. “It’s so cheerful. Everybody has such a good time. They don’t want to leave. It’s a lively group of people,” Avery said. Built in 1949 out of two Navy barracks
required a visit to a hospital for injuries to his arms and shoulders and abrasions to his right eye, nose, knees and elbows and bruises on the back of his head. Charges against Bethea were dismissed in April 2016. Bethea is seeking a jury trial and damages, alleging unnecessary and excessive force, illegal search, false arrest and malicious prosecution, according to the complaint. A spokesman for Camden County Police could not be reached. Camden County Prosecutor Mary Eva Colalillo charged Dickinson with filing false police reports in two cases and one count of simple assault, according to a June 2016 news release from that office.
by Irwin “Red” Barnwell, Red’s is also the oldest bar in the city and one of the oldest in Broward County. Wilkinson bought it in 2005. “We’re proud of our faithful customers who come back every day.” He said he keeps them coming back with cheap drinks, free hors d’oeuvres, and courteous service. “It’s a lot hard work to please our customers. But it’s satisfying,” Velazquez said. Retired firefighter Kevin Kenney has been coming to Red’s for 42 years, ever since he was 15. “The barmaids know me. If I say I don’t want a Bud Light, they know to get me a gin and tonic.” Kenney first came to Red’s for what wasn’t there – questions about his age at a time when the minimum drinking age in Florida was only 18. Kenney keeps coming back because of the people, the memories, and the good, cheap drinks. “Everyone knows Red’s Bar. My father came here. My two brothers came here. Every vehicle I’ve ever owned has been parked behind Red’s. At Red’s, Kenney got married, celebrated his 20th birthday, and got into his first fight – last St. Patrick’s Day. “It’s definitely a real, blue collar bar. It’s a firefighter’s bar,” said Kenney as he pointed to the fire helmets, donated mostly by retired firefighters, hanging around the bar. Some of the helmets are from active firefighters who were promoted to captain and donated their lieutenant helmets.
Those alleged offenses prompted Colalillo to dismiss at least 18 cases, mostly related to drug distribution, because Dickinson was the sole officer who would have been called to testify, she said then. In October, Dickinson pleaded guilty to simple assault in the Camden prosecutor’s case, said Alexandra McVeigh, a spokeswoman for the prosecutor’s office. The number of cases Dickinson was involved with rose to more than 35, she said. O’Connell said all applicants to Wilton Manors police undergo background checks. “There have been no complaints from city of Wilton Manors residents for any police abuse [related to Dickinson],” O’Connell said. WMG
“There’s probably 200 years plus of fire experience.” Three of the helmets belonged to him, one of his brothers, and his father. Kenney said he was heartbroken when Red’s closed before Wilkinson bought it. “It was my neighborhood bar.” Now, he’s thinking about the future and hopes that, whenever Wilkinson decides to retire, he passes Red’s on to somebody to keep it going.” WMG Photo: Facebook.
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Community
Old Goodwill Site May Become Pool By Michael d’Oliveira
Concepts for the pool. Submitted.
Wilton Manors doesn’t have a pool that and redesigned. “We’re retrofitting the building.” He added that the arched design can be accessed by the public. But that may change if Hammerhead of the building make it a good fit for a pool Aquatics, which offers swim lessons, builds because there are no beams. The pool will be a public access pool at the former Goodwill 50 meters long and have eight lanes. Besides store at 550 E. Oakland Park Blvd. in Wilton lap swimming, plans for use of the pool include swim competitions, Manors, behind the Primanti exercise classes, physical Bros. The old Goodwill has therapy programs, and adult been empty since April of “I thInk It’s and infant swim classes. 2011. “It’s a tight fit but it’s big “This will just expand our really clever enough for multiple activities aquatics capability. There at once,” Kissinger said. are no pools in this part of Idea. I Just Plans also include an town that are open seven hope there outdoor shower, classroom days a week. We hope to stay space, catering kitchen, [at Sunrise Middle School] are enouGh outdoor patio, a therapy but this is something for our pool, and 34 parking spots. future. We’re getting too big. swImmers to A second floor would house We need more space,” said support that.” office space or community John Grzeszczak, head coach room. Wind turbines could of Hammerhead Aquatics and - ray Carrier possibly be installed on the resident of Wilton Manors. roof. Nothing has happened “I think it’s really clever yet but Grzeszczak said it could take up to about a year to make the idea. I just hope there are enough swimmers to support that,” said resident Ray Carrier. improvements to the building. “With permits and everything, “It’s a good opportunity for the community hopefully sooner.” Hammerhead Aquatics if they run the programs they’re talking currently contracts with Fort Lauderdale to about running,” said CANA President Paul offer public swimming and lessons at the Rolli. The pool may or may not have to be Sunrise Middle School pool. The plans for the pool were presented at approved by city commissioners and could the Central Area Neighborhood Association be given approval by city staff. Assistant City Manager Pamela Landi said that it’s too [CANA] meeting on May 10. Paul Kissinger, principal for the early to know the answer because no plans architectural design firm EDSA, called have been submitted yet so it’s unknown the pool “a community resource” and if a zoning change or any other type of said that the building would be revamped change will be needed. WMG
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Community
Business
Check out what’s happening
Around Town By Michael d’Oliveira
Businesses Owners Want Less Bars on ‘The Drive’
Too much of the same is hurting everybody, some say By Michael d’Oliveira
Horror Camp for Little Monsters Registration is now open for the Horror Camp for Little Monsters, a horrorfocused summer camp for kids between the ages of 9 and 15 years old. The camp gives children the opportunity to learn the mechanics and techniques of horror as an art form and reveals the mystery of what makes something “scary.” There are hands-on workshops and activities that include learning how to apply makeup and write scripts. The first sessions begin in July. The summer camp is organized by Infinite Abyss Productions, 2304 N. Dixie Hwy., Wilton Manors. Visit creepy. camp for more information. WMG
City approves economic plan
On May 9, commissioners directed city staff to implement the goals outlined by the 2016-2021 Economic Development Strategic Plan, released in December. The goals of the plan include improved signage, getting a commuter rail station built in the city, partnering with other economic development organizations, creating business incentives, improved parking, and tourism promotion. Although the commission told staff to implement the plan, Vice Mayor Justin Flippen said officials needed to pass the plan but they also had the ability to alter it if needed. WMG
Art Gallery 21 exhibit
The art of Mark Baker, Martha DeMarco, Joan Glassman, Doris Goldberg, Mollie Lesnick, and Angie Riserbato will be on display at Art Gallery 21, 600 NE 21 Ct., inside the former Woman’s Club of Wilton Manors. Art Gallery 21 Curator Robert Gross and his assistant, Celia Diaz, have created another showcase of artists to celebrate “the way individuals add beauty to the world with canvas and paint . . . the way that beauty brings us together to share in the joy of creativity . . . and, the way that joy spills over into our daily life, often enriching our lives in ways we hadn’t previously considered.” The exhibit will run until June 12. Art Gallery 21 is free to the public and open Saturdays from 7 to 9 p.m. For more information, visit ArtGallery21.org. WMG
Call to artists
Rossetti Fine Art Gallery is calling for entries for its “Summer Heat 8” anniversary exhibit – Aug. 3 to Sept. 4. The exhibit is an open media and open theme exhibit for all 2D and 3D works. All artists are invited to enter paintings, drawings, sculpture, ceramics, photography, video, and more and will compete for $500 in cash awards. The reception will be held Aug. 5 from 8 to 10 p.m. at the gallery, 2176 Wilton Drive. The deadline is July 25. The entry fee is $25 for one entry and $10 for each additional entry. Visit TomRossetti.com or call 954-6168653 for more information. WMG
When it comes to watering holes on Wilton Drive, some bar and restaurant owners think there’s too much of a good thing. On Wilton Drive, some business owners say too many bars have resulted in too little profit. “There’s too many bars,” said Nick Berry, co-owner of Rumors Bar & Grill and Courtyard Café. “The market’s diluted with bars. Other areas don’t have this problem.” That oversaturation of bars, said Berry, who also serves as chair of the Wilton Manors Economic Development Task Force, has forced a lot of owners to come up with a lot of specials or virtual non-stop happy hours which cut deep into profits. “Everyone’s just giving everything away.” But the oversaturation isn’t just Berry’s opinion. It’s one shared by other business owners and the city’s own report. Page 18 of the 2016-2021 Economic Development Strategic Plan, released in December, states that there is too much supply provided by “Foodservice and Drinking Places.” In the report, consumer demand for those services is $31,504,413 per year but the supply is $78,622,203. To solve the problem, Berry said he wants the city commission to implement some kind of separation requirement on the distance between bars. Existing bars, said Berry, should be grandfathered in. But, if that bar closes, it should be subject to the distance regulations. Berry hopes that the separation requirement might force building owners to find other types of businesses to rent to. Paul Hugo, who co-owns EAT and The Venue, agrees with Berry and said that some bars that come in don’t supply enough parking for themselves and that the city needs to come up with more realistic parking requirements. “[Bars with not enough parking] put a burden on everyone who supplies [enough] parking. A
bar is probably the highest and most dense use of parking.” One bar owner, who asked to remain anonymous, said he’d like to see a limitation on the same types of restaurants as well, but he’s not sure if proximity should be the limiting factor. “It’s hurt bar sales. We are at max saturation . . . businesses of all types. How many sushi places do you need within a quarter mile?” Other business owners also want to see more diversity. “We definitely need more. The last thing we need is more bars. The problem is the city keeps allowing bars,” said Caleb Ben-Avram, co-owner of Naked Grape Wine Bar and Tapas. Ray Delgado and Todd Bowe, owners of Novel Tea, would like to see more women business owners and more retail shops. “A rainbow of different things,” said Delgado. “I don’t want Wilton Drive to be known as Bourbon Street,” said Bowe. All these opinions from business owners are nothing new though. For years, city officials, residents, and business owners have wanted to see more retail businesses come to Wilton Drive and generate more daytime traffic. The city’s latest effort to get more retail came when city commissioners directed city staff to implement the Economic Development Strategic Plan at their May 9 meeting. One of the objectives is to “continue to promote/ support the development of increased restaurants and retail businesses.” Asked if the city would possibly enact some kind of separation requirement, Assistant City Manager Pamela Landi said city staff was waiting for the current legislative session in Tallahassee to finish. She said city staff would have a “longer conversation with the commission” about the possible separation in the near future. WMG
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fEaTurE pets
Just A Cali Girl Six year young Cali (ID 575328) can’t wait to meet you. This 65 pound shepherd mix is super sweet and may want to try and crawl into your lap for belly rubs. She gets along with other dogs and kids and Cali is potty-trained. She’ll enjoy lounging on the couch with you or going for leisurely walks. Stop by the Humane Society of Broward County and meet Cali, she might be your new BFF.
Cali
When you adopt from the Humane Society of Broward County all pets are spayed or neutered before going home. In addition, they receive preliminary vaccinations, heartworm test for dogs over seven months, feline leukemia test for cats, a limited 10-day health care plan courtesy of VCA Animal Hospital, a bag of Purina ONE food and more. The adoption fee for dogs over six months is $100 and felines over six months are $30. For more information call the shelter today at 954-989-3977 ext. 6. The Humane Society of Broward County is located at 2070 Griffin Road, just a block west of I-95 and opens daily at 10:30 a.m. To see who else needs a home visit www.humanebroward.com
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lifESTylE photos
BOyS WITH BOATS
Take a look at last week’s gathering of daring nautical fellows, who use Facebook to plan their frequent adventures on the waves. Follow the fun by joining their Facebook group at bit.ly/2pS43jB. Carina Mask
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TO SEE MANy MORE PHOTOS, VISIT SFGN.COM ON FACEBOOk.
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lifESTylE books
‘bEFORE i dO’ by Elizabeth F. Schwartz, afterword by Jim Obergefell Terri Schlichenmeyer
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There was no pony in there, no new car, not even a stuffed animal. The box was too small for all that, but it held so much more: dreams, ideas, happiness, congratulations! And if you’re lucky, your wise new fiancé tucked “Before I Do” by Elizabeth F. Schwartz in the box with your beautiful engagement ring. So you put a ring on it, made the proposal, and now you’ve got a wedding to plan. It’s all quite exciting, but slow down a minute. If you’ve grown up thinking that this day would never come, then you might not’ve thought about what marriage entails. “LGBT people,” says Schwartz, “have not lived in a world with premarital guidance for LGBT couples. We have suffered systemic exclusion…” Just because you can be married now is no reason that you should, she points out. Yes, you’re in love, and yes, you’ve been together forever but now’s the time to be sure you know exactly what you’re in for. That starts by asking yourselves a series of difficult but important questions. Once you’ve gotten that (perhaps uncomfortable) part out of the way, be sure that any past relationships are completely and legally finished and “do not create confusion with multiple statuses with multiple people.” Know what paperwork you need in order to proceed, and what questions you’ll be asked as you’re filling it out. This pre-wedding period is a good time to talk to a financial expert, a tax consultant, and a lawyer. Don’t trust word-of-mouth to protect your finances; the laws in your state
$14.95 / higher in Canada 220 pages may horrify you, if wedded bliss goes bust. Talk about debt: how much each of you has, and how you perceive it. Educate yourself on insurance coverage, asset protection, prenups, and estate planning. And if all this preparation makes you start to think that maybe marriage isn’t such a good idea after all, Schwartz says it’s okay. There are valid reasons for not taking the plunge, and there are alternatives. One of them may be a much better fit for you. Getting engaged is such an exciting time. Putting the brakes on everything isn’t the most romantic notion, but it’s maybe the most prudent. “Before I Do” explains why. Though she says her advice in this book is appropriate for anyone, author Elizabeth F. Schwartz focuses more on gay and lesbian couples, as well as trans individuals and their prospective spouses. She does so, in part, because she feels that they’ve only seen marriage “on the fringes.” That somewhat sets this book apart from the thousands of other wedding-planner books on bookshelves; what really makes it different, however, is that Schwartz admits her no-nonsense words may talk prospective brides and grooms out of having a wedding. Truth: readers who might’ve somehow taken marriage lightly before will absolutely be convinced otherwise. “Failure to plan has terrible consequences,” says Schwartz, and this book erases that omission. Read “Before I Do,” though, and rest assured that you can toast one another smarter.
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J.W. Arnold
jw@prdconline.com
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Dancing Queens
“Quills,” Doug Wright’s gothic burlesque about the battle of wills between the notorious pornographer the Marquis de Sade and the head doctor at a Napoleonic insane asylum, opens this weekend and runs through June 10 at the Abyss Theatre, 2304 N. Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors. Together, they descend into a battle of wills over morality, sin and censorship in this dark comedy. Tickets are $25 at Infinite-Abyss.org.
FRI
5/19
THEATER Martin McDonagh’s dark comedy, “The Cripple of Inishmaan,” opens tonight at Palm Beach Dramaworks, 201 Clematis St. in West Palm Beach, and runs through June 4. A crippled young man seeks to escape the cruelty and bleakness that engulf him on the desolate island of Inishmaan by landing a role in a Hollywood film being made nearby. J. Barry Lewis directs this powerful show. Tickets start at $66 at PalmBeachDramaworks.org.
Friday
5/19
THEATER
The “mamma mia!” farewell Tour makes a stop at the broward Center in fort lauderdale tonight and running through Sunday. This “ultimate feel-good show” has been thrilling audiences for more than two decades with the signature hits of abba: “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.,” “Super Trouper,” “Take a Chance on me” and “The Winner Takes it all.” Don’t miss this opportunity to relive the stage magic. Tickets start at $35 at browardCenter.org. Photo Credit: Kevin Thomas Garcia.
SAT
5/20 SUN
5/21 MON
5/22 TUE
5/23
CONCERT
TELEVISION
HISTORY
FILM
The Original Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus close out their 31st season this weekend with “Parks & Recreation,” a fun-filled concert about nature, outdoor fun and maybe even a little “risky business.” This creative program features music from “Sunday in the Park with George,” the gospel/country hit, “We Shall Be Free,” and everything in between. Tickets are $25 and $40 at TheFortLauderdaleGayMensChorus. org.
Tune into Showtime tonight for the premiere of “Twin Peaks: The Return,” the 18-episode continuation of that creepy 1990-91 ABC series from David Lynch. More than 25 years after we learned who killed homecoming queen Laura Palmer, we find out how FBI special agent Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan) has been spending his time. Laura Dern, Michael Cera and Jim Belushi join the cast. Check local listings for channels and show times.
Shakespeare expert and local attorney Tom Regnier will present an informative lecture, “Shakespeare and the Law,” tonight at 7:30 p.m. at ArtServe, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. What did Shakespeare know about the law? Quite a bit, apparently. Regnier will illustrate Shakespeare’s keen awareness using dramatic examples from his plays, including “Hamlet.” Free admission. More information at ArtServe.org.
Ever since the original critter crawled out of the unfortunate guy’s stomach, we’ve been coming back for more in Ridley Scott’s “Alien” franchise. And, we always ask the same question: How do they keep this story fresh over nearly 40 years? The latest chapter, “Alien: Covenent,” opens in theaters on Friday, May 19 and stars Michael Fassbender, Katherine Waterston and Billy Crudup. Check local listings for theaters and show times.
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a&E theater Tony Award-winner Idina Menzel will perform at the Broward Center next week. Photo Credit: Warner Bros. Records.
tOny WinnER dEFiEs gRavity at bROWaRd cEntER J.W. Arnold
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t’s been two years since John Travolta’s big flub at the Oscars, mistakenly introducing “Adele Dazeem,” but Tony Award-winner Idina Menzel still laughs about it. “I think it’s the greatest mistake that could have ever happened,” the Tony winner said in a telephone interview. “Before, I wasn’t necessarily a household name. In certain circles people knew me well (and the) people who knew me were upset and in an uproar.” People still slip up now and then on her name, but it’s Menzel’s voice they never forget. She created the role of Maureen in Jonathan Larson’s hit, “Rent,” and would take home Broadway’s highest honor as Elphaba in “Wicked,” opposite Kristin Chenoweth. But, an entire generation of little girls will associate her voice with “Elsa” in Disney’s smash animated musical, “Frozen.” She expects to be back in the studio this summer recording the highlyanticipated sequel. For now, Menzel is in the midst of a 52-city world tour that took the 45-year-old to Japan and back. Next week, she’ll be singing on the stage of the Au Rene Theater at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale. “We made a couple of changes as we came back to the states, and I think there’s a good balance of new arrangements, traditional older songs you would expect to hear and interesting covers….it is always a challenge to make things new for the audience—and myself—because I tour a lot,” Menzel said. Pausing a moment, she added, “I don’t rest on my laurels, I like to do a new show, but not rearrange things too much since the audiences want to hear ‘Defying Gravity’ the way they want to hear it.” She also sighed slightly when asked about her favorite character. She’s created some of the
most iconic roles in American musical theater, after all. “I sigh because I don’t want you to feel like you’re getting a cliché answer,” Menzel explained. “There’s not one, but there’s a pattern in my characters...amazing empowering, inspiring women. I’m so lucky because those particular characters speak to young people, but also speak to me and make me step outside of myself and into the Elsas and Elphabas and Maureens.” For Menzel, the creative process is also important in selecting her projects. She enjoys being in a studio with great composers, joining them in “their creative sanctuaries.” “When I’m a part of the workshop process, the early embryonic stages, I’m fortunate to hear the music for my character and (share) my input. It’s a beautiful dance, and five years later, we’re on a Broadway stage. It’s the best feeling,” she said. Menzel’s son is now nearly eight years old, so she must juggle the demands of motherhood with her career. “It’s changed it a lot for the better. Before I was a mother, I was very regimented and disciplined in my preparation. When you’re on the road and have a baby, there’s only so much you can expect from yourself. When he gets up in the morning and has a fever, the priorities are set for you. (There’s only) so much I can do if you’ve only gotten a couple of hours of sleep,” she said, noting that the challenges have also afforded a new sense of freedom. “I sort of welcome mistakes now, imperfection, because they invite the audience into your world and your soul,” Menzel said. “Sometimes the most incredible moments are when we’re not perfect, that’s what speaks to audiences.”
idina menzel will perform on Wednesday, may 24 at 8 p.m. at the broward Center in fort lauderdale. Tickets start at $69 at browardCenter.org.
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A&E cabaret
Singer Reflects on Life On and Off the Stage J.W. Arnold
R
eaders who remember Express Gay News, SFGN publisher Norm Kent’s first LGBT community newspaper may also recall “Dykes to Watch,” the popular cartoons of Alison Bechdel that could also be found in each issue. The lesbian artist went on to publish a graphic novel about her life with a closeted gay father, “Fun Home,” that became a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical. Beth Malone was the Tony-nominated actress who told Bechdel’s story eight times a week. This weekend, she’ll take the stage of the Colony Theatre in Miami Beach to tell her own story. “So Far” is being presented as part of the Aqua Girl weekend and proceeds benefit the Aqua Foundation for Women. Malone describes the show as “a musical journey from growing up in rural Colorado to becoming an out lesbian protagonist on Broadway” punctuated by the music of Foreigner, Journey, LeAnn Rimes and, of course, some show tunes. “It’s funny and you’ll find yourself recognizing your own stories in my own specific weird tale,” Malone explained, especially if you grew up in the 1980s. “I grew up in a musical household—redneck-y, but musical—my mom was a sort of country music singer. I found ‘Singing in the Rain’ on TV one day and thought, oh my God, there’s my people!”
Malone eventually made the big move to New York City where she waited in audition lines, hoping for her big break. “I didn’t have an agent. I was trying to date girls while having a fiancé who was waiting for me to marry him. It was a precarious existence in the ‘90s,” she recalled. Her “big break” did come when she was hired to do a reading of a new show called “Fun Home,” based on the life of the lesbian cartoonist Bechdel, just “a script that was being tossed around and worked on.” There wasn’t much pressure, as the actors routinely ripped out 30 pages of script each night and substituted in new songs with just hours of practice. They finally moved the show Off Broadway and then Broadway and the rest is showbiz history. Malone said “Fun Home” is much more than just an entertaining show. “This show is a musical and a social outreach program. The show has saved countless lives. I say that, but I’m not kidding a little bit,” she emphasized. “The stage door was an incredible second act (‘Fun Home’ is performed in just one act). You have to take your time with each individual as they tell you their stories, spill their guts with you.” Malone took a moment and then completed her
Beth Malone will perform her one woman show, So Far, this weekend at the Colony Theatre in Miami Beach. Photo Credit: Broadway Style Guide.
thought: “The world is changing and growing and being gay supposedly ‘isn’t even a thing’ anymore…but, I told the New York Times I’ve had so many experiences to the contrary right there at the stage door. I shot down the reporter’s whole argument. It’s been proven in the latest election.”
Beth Malone performs her one woman show, “So Far,” on Saturday, May 20 at 8 p.m. at the Colony Theatre, 1040 Lincoln Road in Miami Beach. Tickets start at $49 at ColonyMB.com/BethMalone.
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May 17 - May 23
Datebook
Theater Christiana Lilly
Calendar@SFGN.com
top
picks
Mamma Mia!
May 19 to 21 at the Broward Center, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The night before her wedding, the bride meets three men who could be her father. Tickets $30 and up. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.
The Cripple of Inishmaan
May 19 to June 4 at the Don & Ann Brown Theatre, 201 Clematis St. in West Palm Beach. Living a bleak life on the Irish island of Inishmaan, the cripple Billy hears about an American filmmaker in the neighboring island of Inishmore and is determined to get himself to Hollywood. Tickets $66. Call 561-514-4042 or visit PalmBeachDramaworks.org.
Death & Harry Houdini
Through May 21 at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. Hop on a ride that takes you through the life of the majestic and mysterious Harry Houdini. Tickets $50. Call 305-949-6722 or visit ArshtCenter.org.
* Denotes New Listing
broward county * Parks & Recreations
May 20 at 8 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, 333 Tarpon Drive in Fort Lauderdale. A nature-themed musical evening with the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus. Tickets $25 to $40. Call 954-832-0060 or visit TheFTLGMC. org.
Totally Naked Comedy Tour
Through May 21 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Drive in Fort Lauderdale. Did you enjoy “Naked Boys Singing?” Grab a seat for four very different, and naked, comedians. Tickets $35 to $50. Visit RonnieLarsen.com.
* A Night on the Town
May 24 at 7 p.m. at Lips, 1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd. in Oakland Park. A fundraiser for the Stonewall Museum, with a drag show and celebrity guests. Tickets $50, $75 VIP, $600 VIP table. Call 954-763-8565 or visit StonewallMuseum.org.
* Idina Menzel May 24 at 8 p.m. at the Broward
Friday Night Sound Waves Music Series
Fridays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Hub, Las Olas Boulevard and A1A in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy live, outdoor music spanning genres and tributes every Friday evening through November. Free. Visit FridayNightSoundWaves.com
palm beach county Free Friday Concerts
Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at the Delray Beach Center for the Arts, 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Enjoy live music from the comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn chair every week, for free! Returns in October. Call 561-243-7922 or visit DelrayArts.org.
miami-dade county Outdoor Music Series
Third Thursdays at the Perez Art Museum Miami, 101 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Come out for live music from DJs and musicians by the bay. Drink specials available. Free with museum admission. Call 305-375-3000 or visit PAMM.org.
The Big Show
Fridays and Saturdays at 9 p.m. at Just the Funny Theater, 3119 Coral Way in Miami. A collection of comedy mixing the likes of improvisation and sketches. Tickets $12. Call 305-693-8669 or visit JustTheFunny. com.
Center, 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. The star of “Wicked,” “Rent,” “Glee,” and of course, “Frozen.” Tickets $69 to $189. Call 954-462-0222 or visit BrowardCenter.org.
Happy Ending
Through May 28 at Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Drive in Fort Lauderdale. A massage therapist welcomes a customer to his massage table who bends the rules. Contains nudity and sexual situations. Tickets $35 to $50. Call 954-826-8790 or visit RonnieLarsen.com.
#OrlandoUnited: Every week, SFGN will pay tribute to one member of our community who was lost in Orlando.
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Welcome to the South Florida Gay News. 5.17.2017 •
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Datebook
Community Christiana Lilly Calendar@SFGN.com
top pIcks Andrew Reid: Public Art/ Private Works Exhibition
Through May 20 at The Box Gallery, 811 Belvedere Road in West Palm Beach. Once moving to South Florida, the illustrator has made a name for himself as a large-scale artist and and one of the forefathers of the mural craze. Email PalmBeachFineArtGallery@gmail.com
GFLGLCC Quarterly Networking Luncheon
May 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. aboard the Anticipation IV Luxury Yacht, 300 SW First Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Take a cruise through Fort Lauderdale and network with other business professionals. Tickets $35 for members, $40 prospective members. Visit GoGayFortLauderdale. com.
Invisible
Through June 4 at The Hub at the LGBT Visitors Center, 1130 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. Vladimir Rios and photographer Lester Blum tell the stories of those who feel invisible because of who they are. Call 305-397-8914 or visit gogaymiami.com.
* Denotes New Listing
Broward support servIces GENDER BENDER YOUTH GROUP
Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at SunServe Campus, 1480 SW Ninth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. A group for LGBT youth 13 to 21 to discuss gender, gender expression, binary systems, friendship, family and whatever else comes up! Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com
PFLAG
Tuesdays in Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs and Southwest Ranches. A support group for parents of LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and locations.
SUNSERVE YOUTH GROUP
Tuesdays and Thursdays in Fort Lauderdale, Southwest Ranches, Coral Springs and Hollywood. A support group and night of fun for LGBT youth 13 to 21. Free. Visit SunServeYouth.com for dates and times.
SURVIVOR SUPPORT
First and third Wednesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Broward Health Imperial Point Hospital cafeteria, 6401 N. Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. Find support from counselors and peers who have lost loved ones to suicide. Call the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention at 954384-0344 or visit FISPOnline.org.
broward county * GLLN Happy Hour
May 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Mellow Mushroom, 525 N. Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. Network with fellow law professionals over drinks and appetizers. Free. Visit GLLN.org.
Stonewall Movie Series: “Training Rules”
May 18 at 7 p.m. at the Stonewall National Museum — Wilton Manors, 2157 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. For 26 years, women’s basketball coach Rene Portland banned lesbian players from her team until 2006, when a brave student athlete took her to court for discrimination. Suggested donation $5. Call 954-530-9337 or visit Stonewall-Museum.org.
* Annual Island City Canoe Race and City’s 70th Birthday Celebration May 20 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Colohatchee
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Park Boat Ramp, 1975 NE 15th Ave. in Wilton Manors and Richardson Historic Park & Nature Preserve, 1937 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Happy Birthday Wilton Manors! Get in your canoes and compete in a 7-mile relay race along the Middle River. Canoes, life jackets and paddles will be provided. Tickets Price: $200 for a team of 10. Call 954-3902130 or visit http://bit.ly/CanoeRace2017.
* Divergent Visions
May 20 to June 14 at Ludwig Framemakers, 2420 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Kent Burkhardsmeier, Karen Hanley Colbert, Dale Kirk, and Allan Pierce come together for an exhibit of photographic work. Call Marquie Kloppenburg at 954-306-3138.
Movie Night
Last Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at the World AIDS Museum, 1201 NE 26th St. Suite 111 in Wilton
May 17 - May 23 miami-dade county
Manors. Free movie nights once a month at the museum. Call 954-390-0550 or visit WorldAIDSMuseum.org.
Donation of $5 or more. Call 561-324-1626 or visit CompassGLCC.com.
palm beach county
Mondays at 6:15 p.m. at Lambda North, 18 S. J St. in Lake Worth. A support and discussion group for female recovering alcoholics. Visit LambdaNorth.net.
Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Drolma Kadampa Buddhist Center, 1273 Coral Way in Miami. Buddhist monk, Gen Kelsang Norbu, will lead classes on learning the foundations of Buddhism. Call 786-529-7137.
Out of the Closet, Into the Light
Yoga in the Garden
Andrew Reid: Public Art/ Private Works Exhibition Sushi & Stroll
June 9, July 14, Aug. 11, and Sept. 8 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road in Delray Beach. The summertime fete returns with sushi rolls, drumming by Fushu Daiko, tours, and more. Admission $15. Call 561-495-0233 or visit Morikami.org.
Transcendence
Meets at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. A closed transgender youth support group for teens ages 12 to 19. For more information, email youth@compassglcc.com.
Zumba Fitness
Mondays at 6 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. Get moving with a certificated Zumba instructor for an infusion of exercise and dance moves.
Sober Sisters
Mondays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at MCC of the Palm Beaches, 4857 Northlake Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens. AA for the LGBT community. Free. Call 561-775-5900 or visit MCCPalmBeach.org.
PBC Gender Support
First and third Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. A support group for transgender individuals of all ages. Contact Heather Wright at A1AHeather@aol.com.
Trans Youth Group
First and third Fridays at 5 p.m. at Compass GLCC, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth. A support group for transgender youth 12 to 19 years old. Email Katherine Murphy at katherine@compassglcc.com.
Book Study
Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. and Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Drive in Miami Beach. Hit the mat for an indoor yoga practice overlooking the garden. Tickets $10 Wednesdays, $15 Saturdays. Call 305-6737256 or visit MBGarden.org.
HIV Support Group
Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at South Beach AIDS Project, 1234 Washington Ave. Ste. 200 in Miami Beach. A support group for those who are HIV positive. Free. Call 305-5354733, ext. 301 or email support@sobeaids. org.
Miami Log Cabin Republicans
Fourth Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. at Casa Larios, 7705 W. Flagler St. in Miami. Meet
with other like-minded people and hear from speakers in the community. Visit LogCabin.org/chapter/florida-miami.
key west Aqua Idol
Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Aqua Key West, 711 Duval St. in Key West. Support your local artists and vote for your favorite! Benefits Waterfront Playhouse. Call 305294-0555 or visit AquaKeyWest.com.
Hot Naked Hump Days
Wednesdays from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Island House, 1129 Fleming St. in Key West. Relax in the middle of the week with two-forone drinks, free shots, videos and music, giveaways, and naked boys at the pool. Call 305-294-6284 or visit IslandHouseKeyWest. com
Women’s Flag Football
Wednesdays from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Bernstein Park, 6751 Fifth St. on Stock Island. Practice and games once a week. Free. Call 305-8968678 or email IWFFA@IWFFA.com.
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Business Directory attorney LAW OFFICE OF GEORGE CASTRATARO 707 NE 3rd Ave #300, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 954.573.1444 Lawgc.com LAW OFFICE OF ROBIN BODIFORD 2550 N Federal Hwy #20, Fort Lauderdale, FL 954.630.2707 Lawrobin.com
attorney SELZER LAW 1515 NE 25th St, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.567.4444 SelzerLaw.com LAW OFFICE OF SHAWN NEWMAN 710 NE 26th St, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.563.9160 Shawnnewman.com
To place an ad in the Business Directory, call our sales team at 954.530.4970 counseling
attorney LAW OFFICE OF GREGORY KABEL 1 East Broward Blvd #700, Fort Lauderdale, 33301 954.761.7770 gwkesq@bellsouth.net
Complimentary copy of
Sex Happens: The Gay Man’s Guide to Creative Intimacy by Dr. Arlen Keith Leight
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For A Limited Time Only Hurry While Supplies Last To claim your complimentary book go to: www.MarriageCounselingForMen.org/contact
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GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF SOUTH FLORIDA PO Box 39617, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33339 954-763-2266 Gaymenschorusofsouthflorida.org
leitner training www.LeitnerTraining.com
In Home Therapeutic Exercise and Personal Training COMFORTABLY and PRIVATELY AT HOME One on One, Pairs or Small Groups
Specializing In: Alzheimer’s Hypertension Osteoporosis Gastric Bypass Cardiovascular Disease Sports Injuries Clinically Obese Diabetes Type I and II Mature Adults Multiple Sclerosis Cerebral Palsy Muscular Imbalances Corrective Posture Stability/Strength/Core 70
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Over 35 Years in the Health and Fitness Industry Experienced in clinical, field and academia National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer Corrective Exercise Specialist American Heart Association Basic Life Support Instructor (CPR) American College of Sports Medicine, Member University Department Chair and Professor of Sports Medicine/ Fitness/Exercise Science
954-290-6701 Rick Leitner, Master of Science Exercise Physiologist, Health Educator
dental
financial services
health
professional services
OAKLAND PARK DENTAL 3047 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306 954.566.9812 Oaklandparkdental.com ANDREWS DENTAL CARE 2654 N Andrews Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33311 954.567.3311 Andrewsdentalcare.com ISLAND CITY DENTAL 1700 NE 26th Street, Ste. 2, Fort Lauderdale, FL 954-564-7121 Islandcitydental.com
final arrangements KALIS-MCINTEE FUNERAL & CREMATION CENTER
2505 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954-566-7621 Kalismcintee.com
furniture
SFGN.COM financial services
handyman MIAMI/BROWARD/PALM BEACH Paint/Caulk/Remove Grout/Yard Work Fix Drips & Switches/Debris removal Assembles Furniture & Appliances Repair or Fix Call "Avrom" Keith 786-227-9981
WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR
FINANCIAL NEEDS Taxes IRS Issues Accounting
Bookkeeping Small Business Advising
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DR. TORY SULLIVAN 2500 N Federal Hwy #301, Fort Lauderdale, FL 954.533.1520 Torysullivanmd.com AMERICAN PAIN EXPERTS 6333 N. Federal Hwy, Ste. 250, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 954-678-1074 Americanpainexperts.com
professional services
florist
954-667-9829 ACCOUNTING@STERLINGACCOUNTING.COM
2435 North Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305
Call uS TO rESErvE SPaCE!
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Business Directory
Nite Life Law
To place an ad in the Business Directory, call our sales team at 954.530.4970
If you drink, don’t drive. If you drive, don’t drink. If you do both, call us.
professional services
BAJJ Storm Protection, Inc. Hurricane Impact Windows & Storm Shutters - Residential & Commercial
Family Owned 20 + Years Experience Licensed & Insured References Senior & Veteran Discounts
Kent & Cormican Criminal Defense Law Center
FINANCING AVAILABLE
954.763.1900
Call JOE - Operations Manager (954) 494-0366 Schedule a FREE Project Quote
Norman Elliott Kent & Russell Cormican 12 S.E. 7th Street, Suite 709 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 www.NormKent.com
retail
TWO GUYS PAWN FREE PHONE QUOTES!
(954) 565-0727 3345A N. FEDERAL HWY. (US 1) OAKLAND PARK, FL 33306
restaurants STORKS BAKERY 2505 NE 15th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.567.3220 Storksbakery.com
Licensed & Insured
954-725-3633
custom alarm contractors, Inc.
Est. 1989 “Experience Matters” Service after the sale! ▶ residential security ▶ commercial security ▶ closed circuit tV www.customalarmcontractors.com 72
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BEEFCAKES 1721 N Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 954.463.6969 boardwalkbar.com
browardpawnshops.com
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J. MARK’S 1245 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 (954) 390-0770 Jmarksrestaurant.com
retail PEACE PIPE 4800 N Dixie Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 954.267.9005 Facebook.com/peacepipefl
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Business Directory To place an ad in the Business Directory, call our sales team at 954.530.4970 spirituality Where we welcome and appreciate diversity.
101 NE 3rd St Fort Lauderdale FL 33301 Mass Times: Saturday 5:00 PM Sunday 10:30 AM Ecumenical Catholic 954.731.8173
www.stsfrancisandclare.org Baptisms • Weddings • Memorial Services
MM28611 MA65936
WILTON MANORS MASSAGE
$
75 HOUR
$135,000 $300,000
3 bdroom/2 bath homes
THE BEST SERVICE, THE BEST RESULTS SOMEONE YOU CAN TRUST!
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$250,000
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Your South Florida Specialist for Over 18 Years
Realtor
954.205.5275
sports TENNIS LESSONS AT HAGEN PARK in Wilton Manors. Individual or group lessons. Call Robert 732-604-0362 for more information.
$
100
CHRIS TUNKUS
954.258.8779 1322 NE 4th Avenue • Fort Lauderdale WILTONMANORSMASSAGE.COM
VOTED real estate Call uS TO rESErvE SPaCE!
Call uS TO rESErvE SPaCE! 5 .17.2017
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Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors & Oakland Park REMODELED homes:
Ocean/Intracoastal
therapy
The Parish of Sts. Francis and Clare
real estate
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SFGN Classified$ To place a Classified Ad, call Tim Higgins at 954.530.4970 or email at Tim.Higgins@sfgn.com
accommodations APRIL SPECIALS FROM $595/WEEK PERFECT FOR VACATION & RELOCATION Beautifully Furnished & Fully Equipped Studio & One Bedroom Apartments w/Full Kitchens in Gay Tropical Resort Setting, Incl. Wi-Fi, free laundry, private parking, utilities, prem. cable. Central to Haulover Nude Beach & Wilton Manors. Located just south of the Airport in Historic Dania Beach. Longer term Monthly rates available for 3 months+ Stays. Pets Always Welcome. Call Joe or Jack at (954) 927-0090 or visit www. LibertySuites.com
electrician
HARRY’S ELECTRIC RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL - Additions, renovations, service upgrades, breaker panels,FPL undergrounds, code violations, A/C wiring, ceiling fans, recessed, security & landscaping, lighting, pools, pumps, Jacuzzis, water heaters, FREE PHONE ESTIMATES 954-522-3357 Lic & Ins. www.harryelectrician.com
handyman
HUSBAND FOR RENT - Is he procrastinating home repairs? He says he will do it tomorrow?? After the football game?? We fit right in - in the house or the yard, small or big jobs: tile, dry wall, paint, plumbing, roof leaks, broken furniture, irrigation, fences, and more! It doesn't cost to hassle us to see the work - so why wait? Neat, clean work for a reasonable price. Call Haim at 954-398-3676, sidnalll@yahoo.com
help wanted
EMERALD IRISH CLEANING - Established for 30 years. 3 hours of cleaning for $75.00. Mention this ad and get $15.00 off the 75.00.Use time as you wish. English speaking *hand-scrub floors* Cleaning supplies included. Service guaranteed 954-524-3161’’
employment - full time J. MARK'S RESTAURANT NOW HIRING - Line cooks (Saute, Grill, Salad), Servers, Front Desk & Busboys. Apply in person Mon - Fri: 1490 NE 23rd St, Pompano Beach or 1245 N Fed. Hwy, Fort Lauderdale CHEF WANTED - Tropics Restaurant in Wilton Manors is looking for a new chef. Searching for a competent, creative chef that understands the restaurant business. Must be able to run the line during busy shifts. Passion for food and a good attitude are a must. Holidays, nights, and weekends are required. Competitive wages. Apply in person at 2000 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors. EDUCATED/ARTICLUATE/WELL OFF - We are an international auto brokerage specializing is purchasing luxury vehicles for our overseas clients. We need a certain type of person to be able to successfully buy these types of vehicles because the dealerships are on “high alert” for the types of cars we buy. If you don’t look like you can afford $100,000 car, if you don’t financially look like you can afford one, then they simply won’t sell it to you. We pay $2 - $5000 per car for what is usually about 5 hours of your time. Call 954-369-1238 for more info or visit our site FleetExport.com EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT/HOUSEMAN POSITION - Retired executive living in Fort Lauderdale has a position for an assistant/houseman. Duties include (but not limited to): Driving, light yard work, dog walking/care, light paperwork, filing & organizing, light housekeeping. Must have a clean driving record and background check. Excellent compensation and health insurance. Send resume with cover letter and salary requirements to: P.O. BOX 2213 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33303 HANDYMAN/PART-TIME - Need a multi-tasking guy to provide pool care (with a pool background) and landscape maintenance (no grass). Call for interview and provide references. Don 954-663-1711.
SFGN.COM
licensed massage MASSAGE BY DENNIS - $60 per 90 min-Out calls higher. Swedish, Deep Tissue, manscaping available. All clients and Body types welcome, Reflexology and Feet. Couples Discounts. Delray Beach. 22 years’ experience. MA18563 Call Dennis 561-502-2628.
music lessons
VOICE LESSONS & MUSIC THEATRE COACHING - Over 30 years experience. Students have performed on (and off) Broadway, in National & International tours, recorded solo albums & placed in prestigious competitions. www.kreutzmusic.com 617-967-0575
piano WANT TO LEARN HOW TO PLAY THE PIANO? Learn from an experienced teacher. All levels and ages welcome. Learn to play classical, popular, jazz, or show tunes. Visit www.edwinchad.com or call 954-826-9555 for more information.
SFGN.COM painting GREGG'S PAINTING - I paint both interior and exterior. Great rates, free estimates. I am detailed-oriented, friendly, reliable, punctual, and neat. No job too small. Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Call Gregg at 617-306-5694 or 954-870-5972 Email: gmanbenn44@gmail.com
pool service
COOL POOLS- RELIABLE POOL SERVICE Professional pool service.Covering Wilton Manors, Lighthouse Point, and eastside of Pompano Beach. 15 years experience. Licensed and insured.Free estimates. Call 954-235-0775.
rentals wilton manors
MIKE THE RENTAL GUY - NE Lauderdale/Wilton Manors/Oakland Park-1/1 from $990, 2/1 from $1140. Victoria Park-1/1=$1090.00 cable included. Credit & Income Requirements-Pets okay with restrictions Call for Details Mike 561-703-5533 or miketherentalguy@ aol.com
get more bang for your buck! Place an ad in SFGN’s Classifieds
954.530.4970
real estate oakland park SLEEPY RIVER ACRES WATERFRONT HOME Come live in the best neighborhood in Oakland ParkThis 2 bedroom/ 2 bath home sits on two sides of the waterfront on an over 16,000 sq ft lot. Build your dream home surrounding $500,000 plus home or live comfortably in this one! $325,000 Brian Bedigian, PA Coral Shores Reality. 954-205-5275, realtorbrian@aol. com
real estate wilton manors UNITED REALTY GROUP - $149,900 2 bed 1 bath1 block to the drive. Low maintenance-NO RENTAL RESTRICTIONS! DUPLEX $349,000 Quiet street Both 2 bed 1 bath-Huge Yard Call for details Michael Tublin 561-703-5533
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